Toyota is maximizing the use of RAV4 EVs

[nhparrot]

Toyota is maximizing the use of RAV4 EVs
06/29/2006 Torrance, CA

June 29, 2006 – Torrance, CA - Toyota has a policy to keep RAV4 EVs in service for as long as they are sustainable. As a full electric zero-emission battery-powered vehicle, RAV4 EV played an important role in the lineup of Toyota's environmentally-advanced vehicles. From 1998 to 2003, RAV4 EV served as a rolling laboratory, contributing technologies that have been incorporated into Toyota's hybrid vehicles which have gained wide accepted by consumers. It featured advanced nickel-metal hydride batteries, a reliable electric drivetrain, an early form of energy-saving regenerative braking, and a computerized power management system. Toyota is committed to keeping environmentally-advanced vehicles on the road as long as they are safe and it is practical to do so.

Highlights of Toyota's policy:

• RAV4 EVs are not being removed from service based solely on age or lease expiration.

• Retail lessees may renew their leases up to 60 months, then purchase their vehicles, or return them, at their option. Fleet lessees may extend their leases in renewable 12-month terms for as long as they are sustainable.

• RAV4 EVs that are returned to Toyota and are determined to be supportable and safe to operate are redeployed. They may be leased to a new fleet customer, loaned to community groups, including national and state parks, or placed in the Toyota company fleet.

• Determination of the usability of returned RAV4 EVs will be based on overall operational condition and exterior and interior condition.

• RAV4 EVs that are taken out of service are used to ensure a supply of unique electronic used salvaged parts to assist our customers with their long term parts needs. This includes battery packs and modules as well as other high-cost components that are unique to the EV. Toyota has enlisted a third party to administer this long term parts salvage program.

• After salvaging electronic parts, RAV4 EVs will undergo a thorough recycling process to maximize recovery of materials.