Periods of high temperatures are occurring more frequently nowadays, and in late February 2024, the Malaysian Meteorological Department had issued a Level 1 heatwave alert as scorching heat impacted north of the peninsula.
A Level 1 warning is issued when temperatures at a location are between 35°C and 37°C for three consecutive days.
For years, environmentalists and climate change activists have sounded the alarm about the consequences of global warming.
We are currently witnessing the impacts of a 1.1-degree increase in temperatures above pre-industrial levels, with a grim reality of more extreme weather events such as heatwaves, droughts, floods, hurricanes, and wildfires.
As a responsible corporate citizen, Toyota takes a firm stand against climate change by implementing sustainable practices, investing in eco-friendly technologies, and actively contributing to global efforts for a greener future.
The world’s largest automaker is committed to ensure daily life is marked by both safety and accessibility, creating happiness and mobility for all.
As such, Toyota continues to pursue a multi-pathway approach to achieve carbon neutrality, by offering choices of different powertrains.
These can include hydrogen internal combustion engine vehicle (HICEV), fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) and even conventional internal combustion engines (ICE) powered by alternative fuels.
With a proven track record worldwide, Toyota has sold over 20 million hybrid cars worldwide, making it the leader in sustainable mobility.
Toyota is committed to a no one-size-fits-all strategy, offering a diverse range of eco-friendly options and tailors electrification solutions to the unique needs of customers and regions, so that no one is left behind.
Toyota is championing a multi-pathway approach and appropriate life-cycle actions to align with each country’s national interests and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).
Global impact through collaborative ventures
Globally, Toyota strategically invests in connected technologies, autonomous driving, shared mobility solutions, and electrification - or more popularly the CASE (Connected, Autonomous, Shared, Electric) series of initiatives.
Meanwhile, Toyota is building a prototype "city" of the future on a 175-acre site at the base of Mount Fuji in Japan.
Called the Woven City, it will be brought to life by Danish architect Bjarjk Ingels.
Plans were announced in January 2020 and construction started early 2021.
Electricity generated by hydrogen powered fuel cells will be the main energy supply – similar to the technology used for the Toyota Mirai hydrogen-powered FCEV.
As a "living laboratory," the Woven City will serve as a home to full-time residents and researchers who can test and develop technologies such as autonomy, robotics, personal mobility, smart homes and artificial intelligence in a real-world environment.
Toyota's Move Your World vision seamlessly aligns with the distinctive needs and challenges of Malaysia, contributing to the nation's progress.
Move Your World is a promise to collectively advance towards a greener, safer, and more connected world.
Toyota supports Malaysia's ambitious goal of achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, a key milestone articulated in the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR).
By aligning its strategies with Malaysia's environmental targets, Toyota underlines its dedication to fostering positive change in the automotive landscape.
Its efforts are aligned with the government’s Energy Transition agenda, the NETR as well as the Hydrogen Economy and Technology Roadmap (HETR).
In January 2023, UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT) had handed over five units of the hydrogen-powered Toyota Mirai FCEV to Sarawak Economic Development Corp's subsidiary, SEDC Energy, and another unit to Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, marking another effort in creating public awareness about greener mobility solutions.
Meanwhile, in a milestone for Malaysia, UMWT recently held its groundbreaking nine-day Beyond Zero event in late February, at the Technology Park Malaysia where electrified technologies including HEVs, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and FCEVs were showcased.
These included the stylish all-electric bZ4X, Hilux BEV pick-up truck and the e-Pallete, a symbol of Toyota’s transition from automaker to mobility provider. The e-Palette offers flexibility, featuring an open control interface and an optional automated driving system.
FCEV models included the Toyota Mirai, GranAce, Hilux FCEV and the Light Duty Truck FCEV.
The second-generation Mirai five-seater sedan has a third hydrogen fuel tank added, contributing to a 30% increase in the car’s driving range to 650km (compared with its predecessor).
These hydrogen-powered vehicles combine sleek design and dynamic performance, utilising fuel cell technology to generate electricity from hydrogen and oxygen.
The only emission produced by a hydrogen fuel cell is water vapour.
Another highlight was the hydrogen-powered SORA bus, a clean mobility solution that exemplifies Toyota's commitment to sustainable transportation. The name "SORA" stands for ‘Sky, Ocean, River, Air’, symbolising the interconnectedness of the earth's water cycle.
The Beyond Zero event, a showcase of eco-friendly innovations, aligns with Toyota's global pursuit of Carbon Neutrality by 2050.
Datuk Ravindran K., president of UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT), said, "Toyota envisions a future where we will leave no one behind. Our promise, encapsulated in 'Move Your World,' is to forge a brighter, sustainable and more connected future for all Malaysians. Let us embrace the journey – where innovation, sustainability, and societal well-being converge seamlessly – taking us Beyond Zero.”
In Malaysia, the automaker is also focused on inclusive community development, creating awareness through the Toyota Eco Youth (TEY) initiative which has garnered participation from 2,690 students across the nation – educating the youth on sustainability.
Meanwhile, UMWT recently launched the much-awaited Toyota Hiace Panel Van 3.0L 2024 and unveiled substantial upgrades.
The enhanced 3.0-litre engine, transitioning from the previous 2.5-litre mill, aligns with Euro 4 emission standards, ensuring cleaner emissions in line with the company's commitment to a low-carbon ecosystem.
In the face of escalating climate change impacts, Toyota as a responsible corporate entity, takes a resolute stance against global warming through redefining mobility. As this transformative journey unfolds, Toyota envisions a brighter, more sustainable, and more connected future for all.