Lexus today unveiled a new design concept for a hybrid 2+2 sport coupe at the North American International Auto Show showcasing the future design direction for Lexus with an emphasis on a driver-focused vehicle.

Challenged by the Lexus Center in Japan to come up with a design for a future hybrid sport coupe concept, the company’s Calty design studio in Newport Beach, Calif., sought to advance the redefinition of Lexus with emotive, avant-garde beauty and advanced technology, yet remain within reach for premium buyers.

The LF-LC displays the new Lexus design language in its bold interpretation of the signature Lexus spindle grille and rear architecture. Sumptuous curves blend smoothly into dynamic angles, creating an inviting display of lines, shadows and corners.

Daytime running lights are shaped like an “L” while the vertical fog lamps utilize a fading dotmatrix pattern to suggest a sense of movement.

The profile of the LF-LC creates a powerful, dynamic silhouette that is unmistakably that of aserious driver’s car. The lines of the vehicle emphasize direction and motion.

The concept car’s glass roof features a lightweight, cantilevered pillar with a glass-to-glass juncture inspired by modern architecture. A rising, kick-up window graphic and polished aluminum trim are unexpected elements. Overall, the greenhouse design enhances driver visibility while adding to the sleek lines of the car.

The dynamic cabin lines are carried through to the rear deck, sculpturally integrating the spindle grille theme to echo the front of the vehicle while creating a unique sense of width. The tail lamps, inspired by the look of a jet afterburner at take-off, use inner lighting to create a remarkable sense of depth. The rear is also fitted with fog lamps, repeating the fading dot matrix pattern of the front fog lamps. Visually, the integrated tail and fog lamps repeat the “L” shape and lead the viewer’s eye down to the powerful Lexus quad exhaust.

The interior of the LF-LC concept vehicle contrasts the cool ambience of advanced technology with soft textures and organic shapes to create a driver-focused synergy of form and function. The cockpit expresses a feeling of both openness and security. The driver is enveloped by deeply scooped side panels and a high, curved console. The effect is to focus the driver zone on the controls and on the road.

Based on Lexus’ commitment to creating an intuitive driving experience, the LF-LC incorporates a remote touch-screen device that allows the driver to comfortably operate controls without shifting position or altering line-of-sight.

Twin 12.3-inch LCD screens provide information and navigation display. Inputs come from a touch-screen control board piercing the swept center console. Used to control the audio system, climate controls and navigation, the interface features a pop-up touch-screen keyboard for more complex entries. Similar touch-screen surfaces on each door operate the windows, mirrors, seat adjustments and personal entertainment settings.

Set directly in front of the driver, multi-level meters layer analog and LCD technologies. The bottom layer displays temperature, fuel and the background for the Eco meter. The middle layer is the tachometer mechanical center ring. The topmost layer provides indicators for the tachometer, speedometer and Eco meter.

Surfaces throughout the cabin are presented in a combination of smooth leather and suede, with brushed metal trim and wood accents. The lightweight, race-inspired front seats are formed of multiple layers and repeat the interlacing curves that define the cabin interior. The racing style steering wheel is also a lightweight design and contains integrated controls and start button. Beautiful stitch details emphasize organic movement throughout the interior.

The front-engine, rear-wheel drive LF-LC features Advanced Lexus Hybrid Drive, delivering both driving performance and fuel efficiency.

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) recently launched the 6th Toyota Dream Car Art Contest, designed for children 15 years of age and below to showcase their artistic talents and creativity in drawing the car of their dreams.

Ebrahim K. Kanoo, the sole distributor of Toyota and Lexus in the Kingdom of Bahrain, is inviting young talents of Bahrain to join this exciting global activity that is taking place in 80 countries.

By motivating children to draw pictures of their dream cars, the contest aims to inspire an interest among the participants in automobiles and encourage them all to have dreams and chase them.

The submitted artworks should be colored and drawn by hand. All digital work will be rejected as per contest rules.

Submissions will be separated into three age categories; below 10 years, 10-12 years, and 13-15 years old, and can be delivered to Toyota Showroom in Sitra, Toyota Plaza in Tubli or Toyota section in Seef Mall from January 22nd, 2012 through February 15th, 2012.

The artworks will be judged by a local committee, where 5 winners will be selected from each category and will automatically be contestants in the global contest. In the event of being one of the global winners, the participant will be sent to Japan to attend the final ceremony.

The competitions have had participants from all over the world with more than 180,000 entries received since 2004–2010.

For more information, please visit www.toyota.com.bh/dreamcar or call 17264646.

Through continuous research and development, Toyota vehicles continue to have the highest levels of quality, durability and reliability in the world. Similarly, through state of the art facilities and advanced equipment, Ebrahim K. Kanoo continues to offer the best aftersales services in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

As of January 1st, Ebrahim K. Kanoo is offering all Toyota passenger models with a standard 4 year / 150,000 KM warranty (whichever comes first), enhancing the experience of owning a new Toyota.

Toyota takes pride in offering highest levels of quality and durability in its cars, which is made possible only by the strict quality control check during production, and the continuous testing and development that insures a promise of a comfortable and hustle free drive.

For more information on Toyota, please contact Toyota showroom in Sitra at 17730730.

A 20% increase from the 2011 sales forecast results, with expected production of 8.65 million units

Manama - Bahrain, December 22, 2011: Toyota Motor Corporation’s Bahrain Representative Office has announced the global auto major’s sales and production plans for CY2012, with targeted sales of 8.48 million units globally in 2012, an increase of 20% from the 2011 sales forecast of 7.05 million units. The production target for CY2012 is 8.65 million units, 24% increase from the 2011 forecast of 6.97 million units.

According to Toyota, the highest number of sales recorded was in 2007 when 8.43 million units were sold globally, however due to a quick recovery and response to the earthquake in Japan and floods in Thailand, introduction of variety of new models, and major expansions expected in emerging markets such as China and other Asian countries, sales in 2012 are expected to set a new record.

Furthermore, the company expects a steady growth in its sales in 2013 as well, with a sales forecast of 8.95 million vehicles and global production of 8.98 million vehicles, a year-on-year increase of 6% and 4% from 2012, respectively.

Ebrahim K. Kanoo, the sole distributor of Toyota and Lexus in the Kingdom of Bahrain, has launched the all new 2012 Toyota Camry, the car that is acclaimed for generations around the world for its superb quality, durability and reliability.

The new Camry 2012 has evolved to shape next generation comfort, performance and style, making it the best Camry ever built. It’s available in three grades, SE, GLX, and GL, all equipped with a powerful 2.5 liter, 4 cylinder, 181 HP Dual VTT-i engine that gives fantastic drive. The excellent matching of the super intelligent 6 speed automatic transmission (6 Super ECT) with the engine consistently produces outstanding driving performance and top fuel efficiency, and the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system with vehicle speed sensing helps to realize optimum steering feeling from low speed to high speed driving giving the unique experience. In addition, 16” and 17” alloy wheels add a sporty and youthful feeling to the vehicle presence on the roads.
“The new Camry represents a futuristic salon car that fulfills all the needs of the smart driver, and indulges him with an artistically crafted dashboard and a progressive sporty exterior”. Said Toyota and Lexus Brand Manager Mr. Ayman Shehadeh.

The new Camry integrates the top levels of safety performance in its class to give true peace of mind. With features like the vehicle stability control (VSC) that helps prevent wheels slip, and the front, side and curtain SRS airbags that help reduce the impact to occupants in a collision, reassurance grows high when driving the new Camry.

The feeling of contemporary luxury is created through the refinement of the driving position layout in the new Camry, which provides information at a glance and enables intuitive operation, also the spacious quiet cabin which is very welcoming and comfortable. The attention to quality in every detail, the ample trunk space and the fact that it is available in 10 colors makes the new Camry the most luxurious salon car out there.

Lots of applications and features were added to make Camry lead the way with the highest standards of comfort and safety, such as the navigation system that guides to the destination required with clear and easy to read graphics, and the camera integrated into the rear of the vehicle that provides smooth reversing operations when parking, also the smart entry and start system that helps in adding more fun and convenience to the driving experience of the new Camry.

Toyota has earned a reputation for offering best value automotive experience through Ebrahim K. Kanoo’s service centers available throughout the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Everybody is welcome to visit the Toyota Showroom in Sitra and test drive the new Camry. Trade in option available. For more information please contact the Toyota Showroom in Sitra on 17 730 730 or visit www.toyota.com.bh.

Training tools aimed at better equipping Bahrain’s workforce was donated by Ebrahim K. Kanoo the sole distributor for Toyota and Lexus in kingdom of Bahrain to the Bahrain Training Institute (BTI).

The move came as part of the company’s immense efforts to develop Bahrain’s technical skills.

The event was held at the Toyota Plaza in Tubli, where BTI’s Deputy Director - General for Admin & Finance Dr. Fawzi Aljowder accepted the equipments from Ebrahim K. Kanoo’s Director Mr. Talal Kanoo.

“We strive to provide the country’s youth with the latest technologies to advance their education level and create a stronger future for the automotive sector in the kingdom of Bahrain”. Said Mr. Talal.

Meanwhile, Dr. Aljowder thanked the company for its contributions to increasing the level of education and skills at the institute.

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In Picture:

3rd from left: Mr. Talal Kanoo, Director, Ebrahim K. Kanoo

4th from left: Dr. Fawzi Aljowder, BTI Deputy Director – General for Admin & Finance

Ebrahim Khalil Kanoo, the sole distributor of Toyota and Lexus in the Kingdom of Bahrain, recently welcomed a group of IT students from Bahrain Polytechnic along with their tutor Mrs. Raghda Zahran, to educate them of Ebrahim K. Kanoo’s Group of companies and the different IT programs used in operations in the company.

Dr. Bijan Majidi, General Manager of Business Development and Planning, introduced and discussed operations that are held within E.K.Kanoo Group followed by Mr. Montaser Abu Al-Hassan, Corporate CRM Manager, which educated about customer relations activities and how the procedures are accomplished using the Oracle ERP System. Lastly, Mr. Rajan Ganti, Oracle CRM Lead in ERP Department, presented an analysis of processes done to insure highest standard is served at E.K.Kanoo with the ERP system.

Ebrahim Khalil Kanoo always supports and receives visits by different educational institutes that wish to have a closer look at the various operations executed at Ebrahim K. Kanoo, and that’s  due to its position as one of the pioneering companies in the automotive industry in Bahrain.

In picture

Seconed from left: Mr. Montaser Abu Al-Hassan, Corporate CRM Manager

First from right: Mrs. Raghda Zahran

Vehicle Features 

The ultimate in personalization functions offer the ability to alter the content displayed on the interior and exterior of the Fun-Vii with the same ease as downloading an application.  For instance, the whole vehicle body can be used as a display space, with the body color and display content changeable at will.  This allows the entire vehicle to function as a terminal for displaying messages or other information.

The whole of the vehicle interior also can function as a display space, with the interior freely adjustable to match the mood of the moment.  Content such as navigation information is blended seamlessly into the interior through the use of augmented reality.  Furthermore, the vehicle’s “navigation concierge” can provide the passengers with driving information and guidance through a vocal interface.

A network update function makes sure the software versions for the vehicle’s drive, control and multimedia system are always up-to-date.

The Fun-Vii is able to link with surrounding vehicles and infrastructure, allowing it to detect other potentially hazardous vehicles—such as vehicles in blind spots—in advance, or to connect with friends who are driving nearby.

Operation of the Fun-Vii is not limited to inside the vehicle itself, with a portion of the vehicle’s functions access able remotely via a smartphone or other mobile communication device.

Under the slogan “Fun to Drive, Again.”3, TMC is offering fresh proposals to provide the dream and joy of motor vehicles to as many people as possible, and in addition to the Toyota Fun-Vii, is displaying a variety of other concept cars at the Tokyo Motor Show 2011.

Toyota Fun-Vii Main Specifications

Length 4,020 mm

Width 1,745 mm

Height 1,415 mm

Wheelbase  2,750 mm

Seating 3

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) will feature several concept cars to highlight its Toyota-brand exhibit at the 42nd Tokyo Motor Show.  The concepts aim to make fresh proposals concerning the dream and joy of motor vehicles under the concept “Fun to Drive, Again.”.  The show, under the theme “Mobility can change the world”, will be held from November 30 through December 11 at Tokyo Big Sight in Koto Ward, Tokyo.

The Toyota-brand display will include a concept car that heralds a future where people, cars, and society are linked, as well as a compact rear-wheel-drive sports vehicle that reaffirms the joy of driving and the pleasure of motor vehicle ownership.  Also planned for display are a diverse selection of next-generation eco-cars including a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHV), which represents the technology TMC considers best suited for widespread use to effectively meet CO2 emissions restrictions and the diversification of energy.

Separately from the motor show, at nearby Mega Web, TMC will hold hands-on events that will allow visitors the opportunity to test drive some of the display vehicles and experience future technologies.  TMC will also create a Tokyo Motor Show portal site (http://www.toyota.co.jp) to stream information from the show.

TMC, seeking to be rewarded with a smile for exceeding expectations as stated in the Global Vision announced in March of this year, seeks to create harmony between its operations and host communities around the world through the creation of ever-better vehicles.

Concepts vehicles that will be unveiled at the show:

1. Toyota Fun-Vii (world premiere) 

A concept vehicle that heralds a future where people, cars and society are linked.

2. Compact Rear-Wheel-Drive Sports Vehicle (world premiere) 

The prototype model of a compact rear-wheel-drive vehicle jointly developed by Fuji Heavy Industries and TMC.

3. Prius Plug-in Hybrid (Japan premiere) 

The Prius Plug-in Hybrid, an environment-friendly vehicle that combines features from both pure-electric vehicles and gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles, is equipped with a new, high-capacity lithium-ion battery that can be charged from a household outlet.  Able to operate as an electric vehicle on short trips and as a gasoline-electric hybrid vehicle on medium to long trips, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid can be used regardless of battery charge status or charging infrastructure availability.

With this vehicle, TMC aims to address environmental issues such as the reduction of fossil fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and atmospheric pollution.  A production model is planned for launch by TMC in early 2012 with fuel economy exceeding 57 km/L and an EV cruising range (on fully charged battery) of 23.4 km, positioning the plug-in hybrid as a leading next-generation eco-car coming after gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles.

4. FCV-R (world premiere)

A practical sedan-type next-generation fuel-cell concept vehicle fueled by hydrogen, a promising source of CO2 emission-free energy that can be produced from a variety of sources and can be easily stored and transported.  This concept model is a highly practical fuel-cell vehicle (FCV) that is planned for launch in about 2015.

With the fuel-cell unit located beneath the specially designed body, the vehicle can accommodate up to four passengers and boasts impressive luggage space.  The fuel cell stack, consisting of a 70 MPa high-pressure hydrogen tank, has been improved to provide a cruising distance of approximately 700 km or more (under the JC08 test cycle; according to TMC).

5. FT-EV III (world premiere)

Electric vehicles (EVs), with zero CO2 emissions, are important future eco-cars that have promise to replace cars fueled by gasoline.  The FT-EV III is an electric concept vehicle with an ultra-compact and lightweight package suitable for short-distance trips.

TMC is developing EVs with the aim of launching a vehicle suitable for short-distance travel in 2012.  Equipped with a lithium-ion battery, the FT-EV III achieves an estimated cruising range of 105 km on a fully charged battery.

6. Aqua (world premiere)

An affordably priced compact-class dedicated hybrid vehicle that aims to provide the joys of hybrid vehicle ownership, such as superior fuel efficiency, user friendliness and fun, to as many people as possible.

The Aqua combines the features of a compact car with a hybrid vehicle to create a car that represents the future of compact vehicles with a groundbreaking fuel efficiency of approximately 35 km/L (under the JC08 test cycle; 40 km/L under the 10-15 test cycle).   The body, at less than four meters long, offers outstanding handling, while the minimized height enhances aerodynamic performance, providing comfortable maneuverability with stylish proportions.

The state-of-the-art compact and lightweight hybrid system combines a 1.5-liter engine with a high-output motor to create a low center of gravity for enjoyable operation and outstanding maneuverability, all while still offering interior comfort and ample luggage space.

Following the launch in Japan, scheduled for late December 2011, the Aqua will be sequentially rolled out to other countries and regions worldwide.

Ebrahim K. Kanoo, the sole distributor of Toyota and Lexus in the Kingdom of Bahrain, has renewed its commitment to sponsoring the leading sports teams of Al Ahli Club for the 2011/2012 season.
Mr. Talal Fuad Kanoo, E. K. Kanoo Director, presented the cheque to Mr. Ahmed Al Alawi, Al Ahli Club secretary, in presence of Mr. Mohammed Taqi, Al Ahli Club member, and company officials at the main office in Manama.
The move comes inline with E. K. Kanoo’s dedication to increase awareness and professionalism of local sports in the Kingdom, and to motivate the youth to participate in social and sports events with the aim of developing the overall skills of the country’s players. Among the various sports teams the company is sponsoring is football, basketball, handball and volleyball – of all age categories.
Mr. Talal Fuad Kanoo said, “Ebrahim K. Kanoo will continue to support and motivate local sports clubs and competitions because it is our duty as the country’s businessmen to shape the lives of the youth and encourage them in creating a stronger, professional and more talented sports arena for the future of our country.”
On the other hand, Mr. Ahmed l Alawi expressed the club’s appreciation for this kind of gesture, adding that the company’s involvement in local sports has paved the way for nationwide support for local sports which has in turn pushed the field forward locally and internationally.

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Captions:
1. (From left) Mr. Mohammed Taqi, Mr. Ahmed Al Alawi and Mr. Talal Fuad Kanoo during the handover ceremony.