2005 Press Releases

Camry Remains the Best-Selling Car in America for Third Year in a Row

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported total year-end sales of 2,060,049 vehicles, up 10.0 percent over 2003. While breaking its sales record for the ninth consecutive year, it was the first time in TMS’ 47-year history it has reached sales of two million vehicles. Camry became the best-selling car in America for the third year in a row and seventh time in the past eight years (1997-2000, 2002-2004), while the Lexus Division retained its crown as the best-selling luxury brand in America for the fifth consecutive year. With overall sales of 99,259 in 2004, Scion launched nationwide in June and was a significant contributor to the record sales year.

Toyota Motor North America Announces Additional Contributions to Tsunami Relief

Toyota and its 36,000 team members and associates in North America would like to express their sincere condolences to the victims and families affected by the tsunami in Asia. Following Toyota Motor Corporation’s announcement today of a $3 million direct donation to tsunami relief organizations, Toyota Motor North America (TMA) announced that Toyota’s North American operations will match up to $1 million in team member and associate contributions to the International Response Fund of the American Red Cross and UNICEF. In addition, Toyota and Lexus dealers and suppliers across the country have demonstrated their support through independent contributions.

TMMK Launches Production of Third Generation Avalon

The all-new completely restyled 2005 Avalon full-size sedan made its world premiere at a press conference today at the 2005 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. Meanwhile, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK), the exclusive manufacturer of the Avalon, announced plans to build more than 100,000 units of its newest model in 2005. The Avalon arrives in showrooms this February, with a larger and more luxurious interior and improved performance. “Our team members are once again demonstrating their excellent capability to learn new jobs, new technology, and problem solve in a quick and effective manner,” stated Gary Convis, TMMK president and Toyota Motor Manufacturing North America executive vice president.

Toyota Hits Record North American Production in 2004

Toyota announced today that the company produced 1,443,889 vehicles and 1,273,437 engines at its North America manufacturing facilities in 2004. Both were record levels for Toyota, which began North American production in 1985 and has steadily expanded operations ever since.

TMMK Honors Skilled Trades Graduates

Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK) will honor a group of team members this Friday, January 28, 2005 for recently completing the Skilled Trades Development Program (STDP). The graduation ceremony is scheduled to begin at 10:30 a.m. Eastern Standard Time. STDP is a three year training program that Toyota offers production team members who want to become part of the company’s skilled maintenance team. It was first implemented in 1990.

Toyota Reports January Sales

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported January sales of 140,954 units, an increase of 6.2 percent over the same period last year. Toyota passenger car sales enjoyed a strong January with 69,398 units sold, an increase of 19 percent. The Camry mid-size sedan, America’s best-selling passenger car in 2004, led the way with 28,367 units sold. The Corolla compact sedan posted sales of 24,174, an increase of 11.4 percent over last January. The Prius gas-electric hybrid mid-size sedan reported best-ever January sales of 5,566 units, up 106.1 percent over the same period last year.

TMMK Announces Sponsorship of "Alive at 25" Driving Program

Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK) is sponsoring the National Safety Council’s “Alive at 25” defensive driving course for Scott County junior and senior high school students. The “Alive at 25” program zeroes in on young adults ages 16 to 24, the group most likely to be involved in fatal collisions. This highly interactive four-hour program teaches young drivers how to take control of situations by taking responsibility for their own driving behavior.

Toyota Announces New Management Team

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) announced today a list of executive nominees (executive vice presidents and higher) it plans to have officially finalized at a board of directors meeting following this year’s annual general shareholders meeting in June.

Toyota Announces Motorsports Activities and Plans for 2005

TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announced today its motorsports plans for 2005, which place competing in the top racing categories of the FIA Formula One World Championship (F1), the IRL (Indy Racing League) IndyCar Series and the Super GT World Challenge (Super GT) Series races as its three main pillars. TMC also plans to continue cultivating top drivers for the future and carrying out activities that serve to support the foundations of motorsports.

Toyota Reports Best-Ever February Sales

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported best-ever February sales of 163,059 vehicles, an increase of 11.1 percent over February 2004. Calendar-year-to-date (CYTD) sales total 304,013, an increase of 9.0 percent compared to the same period last year. The Toyota Division recorded best-ever February sales of 143,334, an increase of 13.5 percent. Toyota Division passenger cars registered best-ever February sales of 80,772 units, an increase of 22.4 percent. Camry mid-size sedan led the way with sales of 31,874, up 5.0 percent over the same period last year. The Corolla compact sedan continued its strong sales with 25,479 units, up 8.8 percent. The popular Prius gas-electric hybrid mid-size sedan recorded its best-ever overall sales month of 7,078 units, an increase of 120.2 percent over February 2004. The all-new 2005 Avalon full-size sedan, which went on sale in February, enjoyed sales of 5,317, up 78.6 percent.

TMMK Names Its Top Volunteers for 2004

Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK) honored five of its team members Saturday, March 5, 2005 during the company’s annual Volunteers In Place (VIP) Recognition Dinner at the Lafayette Club in Lexington, Ky. The VIP program was developed in 1994 to encourage and recognize team member volunteer work while supporting TMMK's operating principle and firm commitment to be a good corporate citizen. Through the years, Toyota's program has become an important volunteer network to respond to needs in the communities where TMMK team members live. About 1,000 team members took part in the VIP program in 2004 donating almost 36,000 man-hours to various communities.

Toyota Honored by EPA for Excellence in Energy Management

Toyota Motor Manufacturing North America was one of 50 companies to win awards from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy for their work in curbing greenhouse gas emissions. TMMK was instrumental in helping the company meet emissions goals. The award is based on Toyota's U.S. manufacturing operations' efforts to reduce energy consumption in the plants and administrative offices. It also recognizes our energy management program.

Toyota Announces Top Supplier Awards for 2004

Toyota Motor Manufacturing North America, Inc. (TMMNA) today announced awards for its top North American suppliers in 2004. Among the awards given out at the ceremony, AK Steel Corporation of Middletown, Ohio, NOVA Chemicals of Pittsburgh, Pa. and U.S. Engine Valve Company of Westminster, S.C. were each recognized with Superior Awards in the areas of both Quality and Delivery. The awards acknowledge those suppliers who have met Toyota’s highest standards in quality, delivery and value improvement for parts and materials. Additionally, special recognition awards were given to those suppliers whose exemplary work over the past several years greatly contributed to the launch of the all-new 2005 Toyota Tacoma.

Toyota Reports Best-Ever Sales Month; Record First Quarter

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported its best ever sales month of 203,223 units, an increase of 12.3 percent from March of last year. Toyota also posted its best-ever first quarter in 48 years of business in the U.S. with sales of 507,236, up 10.6 percent over the same period last year. Toyota passenger car sales posted an overall record month of 103,962 units sold, an increase of 28.8 percent over the same period last year. Camry led the way with sales of 38,263, up 5.0 percent. The Corolla compact sedan continued its robust sales with 32,005 units, up 9.3 percent.

Toyota Selects Students for Trip to 2005 World's Fair

Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. selected three finalists and two runners-up from competition at the Third Annual Kentucky Science and Engineering Fair, held at Eastern Kentucky University on April 2, 2005. The finalists were selected to attend the next world’s fair, Expo 2005, in Aichi, Japan. Srishti Mirchandani, Jessica Miles, and Rebecca Vitale were named the three finalists. Mirchandani’s (Prospect, Ky.) science project theme was “Bioremediation of Crude Oil in Pristine and Contaminated Soil Environments with Natural Enhancement of Degradation.” Jessica Miles’ (Louisville) project was entitled “The Pathological Effect of Bacteria on Muscle Tissue,” while Vitale (Louisville) presented a project entitled “The Glucose Dependence of CD4+ T-Lymphocytes.”

Kentucky Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet Uses Toyota Prius to Save Gasoline, Tax Dollars

The Kentucky Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet (EPPC) today displayed its solution to high gasoline prices – its new, high-mileage Toyota Prius fleet vehicles.The Prius hybrids were available to drive today at the event held at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky (TMMK) in Georgetown. Consumer demand for hybrid vehicles, especially the Prius, has increased dramatically as gas pump prices have soared. As part of Kentucky’s observance of Earth Week, TMMK and Kentucky state government partnered to demonstrate hybrid technology and to promote recycling. The EPPC began replacing large sedans with hybrids last year to save tax dollars and increase efficiency

TMMK Honors Distinguished Suppliers

Twelve parts and service suppliers of Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK) were given a distinguished honor during the TMMK Annual Purchasing Policy Meeting and Awards Ceremony in Lexington. “We expect our suppliers to meet very high standards and perform at very high levels,” stated Keith Peel, Manager of Purchasing at TMMK. “These companies are to be commended for meeting these expectations. Obviously the success of TMMK relies a great deal on the quality of parts and services that we receive from our supplier base.”

Toyota Reports Best-Ever Sales Month

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported its best-ever overall sales month, including the best April for the ninth consecutive year, with 210,466 vehicles, an increase of 21.3 percent over April 2004. Calendar-year-to-date (CYTD) sales total 717,702 represent an increase of 13.6 percent compared to the same period last year. Toyota Division passenger cars recorded a best-ever overall sales month of 112,002 units, an increase of 41 percent. Camry earned best-ever April sales with 40,435 units, up 13 percent over last April. The Corolla compact sedan also reported record April sales with 34,336 units, up 19.6 percent. For the third consecutive month, the popular Prius gas-electric hybrid mid-size sedan recorded its best-ever overall sales month with 11,345 units, an increase of 196.5 percent over April 2004. The all-new 2005 Avalon full-size sedan enjoyed sales of 9,229, up 165.8 percent.

Toyota's First North American Hybrid Production Will Be In Georgetown, Kentucky

Toyota Motor Manufacturing North America (TMMNA) today announced the company’s first North American gas-electric hybrid production will be at its Georgetown, Ky., plant – Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK) – when production of a Camry hybrid begins in late 2006. TMMK will have the capacity to build approximately 48,000 Camry hybrid vehicles per year. The addition of hybrid production to TMMK will include a $10 million investment in the plant

TMMK Honors 'The Heart' of its Company

The band known for the “Heart of Rock and Roll” saluted folks known as the Heart of TMMK at the 15th Perfect Attendance ceremony. Huey Lewis and the News rocked Rupp Arena, as a large crowd of team members and guests swayed and danced to pop hits like “I Want a New Drug” and “This is It.” The May 14 event honored 4,141 folks who achieved perfect attendance in 2004. In addition, more than 200 hit the 10-year mark of perfect attendance and, along with a guest, were treated to a sit-down dinner before the show.

Toyota Motor North America Inducted Into Billion Dollar Roundtable

Toyota Motor North America, Inc. (TMA) today announced the company was inducted into the Billion Dollar Roundtable (BDR) in recognition of over $1 billion in annual spending with ethnic and diverse suppliers. Toyota was one of only two companies inducted into this prestigious organization this year. Established in 2000, the Billion Dollar Roundtable brings together corporations who make significant, measurable contributions to diverse minority economic growth and whose supplier diversity spending has reached $1 billion annually. As part of the BDR, member companies meet to share best practices on maintaining the billion dollar level of diversity spending and publish an annual white paper based on ideas gathered from industry leaders and BDR members. New member companies are inducted into the BDR every two years.

Toyota's "In the Interest of Women" Conference to be Held in October

Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK), announced plans for its annual In the Interest of Women: A Forum for the Women of Kentucky. The 2005 conference will be held in Lexington at the Lexington Center on October 10 and in Louisville at the Galt House East on October 11. The 2005 Toyota conference will feature keynote speaker Priscilla Presley. In addition to serving as Co-Executor of the Elvis Presley Estate, Ms. Presley has acted on television and in movies, written a book and developed a successful line of fragrances. She will share stories with conference attendees of the challenges and successes she’s faced throughout her life.

Toyota MS150 Bike the Bluegrass

More than 355 cyclists participated in the Toyota MS150 Bike the Bluegrass event raising over $230,000 for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (with additional donations coming in every day). Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky had 37 team members, family and friends who cycled with "Team Toyota" raising over $12,000. Team Toyota was the fourth largest fund-raising team at the event. In addition, TMMK had eleven team members who assisted with logistics and as SAG Wagon drivers, picking up tired and weary cyclists.

Toyota Announces Scholarship Winners

Fifty-five students have been selected to receive a $1,000 scholarship from the Toyota Motor Manufacturing Scholarship Program. Among the 55, twenty are children of parents who work for Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK). To commemorate the production of Toyota’s 10 millionth vehicle in North America, Toyota Motor Manufacturing North America (TMMNA) established the Toyota Motor Manufacturing Scholarship Program. The scholarship program is for sons and daughters of team members of Toyota’s North American manufacturing companies. In addition, the TMMK Scholarship Fund awards five scholarships based on similar standards.

Toyota to Expand in Canada; First New Site for Auto Assembly Plant in Canada in Almost 20 Years

Toyota (NYSE: TM) announced today that it will construct a new plant here employing 1,300 team members to build the RAV4 sport utility vehicle. The new plant represents an approximate C$800 million/US$650 million investment and will be Toyota’s second Canadian assembly plant. It is the first green field automotive assembly facility in Canada in almost 20 years. Additionally, Toyota announced an expansion of Canadian Autoparts Toyota, Inc. (CAPTIN) in Delta, British Columbia. As a result of the C$39.0 million/US$31.6 million expansion, wheel capacity at the facility will increase by nearly 17 percent per year, starting in July 2007.

Toyota Reports Strong June Sales, Sets Second-Quarter and First-Half Sales Records

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported its best-ever first-half sales in 48 years of business in the U.S. with calendar-year-to-date (CYTD) sales of 1,114,070. June sales of 194,875, an increase of 10.0 percent over last June, contributed to a record-setting second quarter, with sales of 606,834 units. Toyota Division passenger cars recorded best-ever June sales of 96,755, up 12.5 percent over the same period last year. The all-new 2005 Avalon full-size sedan enjoyed sales of 9,134, up 183.1 percent.

TMMK Recognizes Team Members for Military Service

Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK) recently recognized 18 team members who served in the initial post 9/11 military events - Noble Eagle, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Noble Eagle Enduring Freedom.

Toyota Motor Manufacturing makes $300,000 donation to North Carolina A&T State University for Engineering Scholarships

Toyota Motor Manufacturing North America, Inc. announced a $300,000 gift to North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University that will provide scholarship opportunities for its College of Engineering. Toyota will provide the University $300,000 over the next three years to fund scholarships for students majoring in engineering and computer science.

It's a Gas, Gas, Gas

Things come and go in cycles, from leisure suits to beehive hairdos.

The automotive world experiences the same thing in its car and truck lineups. Rumble seats, tailfins, fender skirts and denim upholstery have come and gone.

Sometimes, changing tastes bring about the demise of a car or segment, like when convertible popularity waned in the mid-1970s, and ragtops disappeared altogether for several years. Other times, it’s the press – as when Ralph Nader’s “Unsafe at Any Speed” killed the Corvair. The advent of the minivan and the subsequent decline of the station wagon exemplify the ever-changing tastes of the car-buying public.

For 2005, the big news looks to be about the correlation of SUV sales and gasoline prices. At press time, the national average for a gallon of regular grade gasoline was $2.23, up 33 cents from a year ago. At those prices, filling the tank of some of the larger trucks and SUVs on the market is approaching the $100 level, a prospect that is beginning to affect sales.

‘NASCAR In My Bones’

It’s not your typical NASCAR sponsorship: Not an autoparts store, not a tobacco company, but a rock band. Yes, you read that right. The Allman Brothers Band is now a sponsor of Todd Bodine’s #30 Toyota Tundra. At the Toyota Tundra Milwaukee 200 in June, the Germain/Arnold truck debuted with the logo of the Allman Brothers Band on its hood.

Divers-I-Pet Contest Showcases Team Member Creativity

The Body Operations Citizenship Committee conducted a Divers-I-Pet contest in which members made “yard art” from production scrap. Judging was held at the BOPs Safety Fair on July 7, with the dragon (above) taking top prize.

Forrest and Ed’s Excellent Expo Adventure

Stamping team members Forrest Day, and Ed Flaga, winners of the TMMK Expo 2005 Environmental Contest took full advantage of their prize, a trip to Expo 2005 in Aichi, Japan. “We decided before we left that we were not going to let jet lag, or anything else for that matter, get in the way of fully enjoying this once in a lifetime trip”, said Forrest.

Toyota Reports Best-Ever Sales Month

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported its best-ever sales month in 48 years of business in the United States with total July sales of 216,417 vehicles, an increase of 12.3 percent. Calendar-year-to-date (CYTD) sales total 1,330,487, up 11.7 percent over the same period last year. oyota Division passenger cars recorded best-ever July sales of 108,301, up 16.2 percent over the same period last year. The all-new 2005 Avalon full-size sedan enjoyed best-ever July sales of 9,432, up 188.4 percent. Camry sales rose 7.7 percent with 43,004 units sold, while Corolla sales were a best-ever July at 30,557 units, up 3.8 percent.

Toyota Features Hybrid Technology at the Kentucky State Fair

Hybrid technology is the focus at the Toyota booth during this year’s Kentucky State Fair August 18 – 28 at the Kentucky Fair & Exposition Center in Louisville. The Kentucky State Fair is the largest state-wide event in the state attracting more than 700,000 visitors.

Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK) is sponsoring an exhibit at the fair for the 16th consecutive year. This past May, TMMK announced plans to produce a Camry hybrid, becoming Toyota’s first North America plant to assemble a Toyota Synergy Technology (Hybrid System) product. Although production of the Camry hybrid is not scheduled until late 2006, TMMK has a Highlander Hybrid Cut-Away model on display to demonstrate the hybrid technology. TMMK’s exhibit also features interactive displays, the Kentucky-built Solara convertible and the all-new Avalon sedan.

Toyota V6 Engine Production Begins in Alabama

Alabama and Huntsville area leaders joined Toyota (NYSE:TM) officials and team members today for a celebration marking the production of the first V6 engine at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama (TMMAL). TMMAL now employs more than 500 team members and has the capacity to produce 120,000 V8 and 130,000 V6 engines annually. An expansion underway to increase V8 production will further boost employment to 800 and total investment to nearly a half billion dollars by 2006.

Toyota Companies Pledge $5,000,000 to Hurricane Katrina Relief

Toyota companies today announced a $5,000,000 contribution directed to disaster relief for victims of Hurricane Katrina, which struck a devastating blow to the US Gulf Coast on August 29. $2 million of the $3 million directed to the American Red Cross was pledged by Toyota Motor Corporation of Japan, California-based Toyota Motor Sales USA and Toyota Financial Services; New York-based Toyota Motor North America; and Kentucky-based Toyota Motor Manufacturing North America, which includes 11 manufacturing plants in North America, with three more under construction.

Toyota Reports Best-Ever August Sales

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported its best-ever August sales of 205,362 vehicles, an increase of 9.5 percent. Calendar-year-to-date (CYTD) sales total 1,535,849, up 11.4 percent over the same period last year. Toyota Division passenger cars recorded best-ever August sales of 105,572, up 18.2 percent over the same period last year. The all-new 2005 Avalon full-size sedan recorded August sales of 9,020, up 200.7 percent. The Prius gas-electric hybrid mid-size sedan enjoyed best-ever August sales of 9,850, an increase of 115.6 percent. Camry sales rose 7.7 percent with 39,896 units sold, while Corolla sales were at 31,369 units, up 2.3 percent.

TMMK Team Members Lend A Helping Hand

As soon as Hurricane Katrina left its path of devastation, team members from Toyota's Georgetown plant started calling company officials with one common question: "How can we help?" TMMK is coordinating efforts with the American Red Cross which is accepting monetary donations from Toyota's workforce

New Campaign to Focus on Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive

Toyota is launching a national campaign aimed at building awareness and understanding of its gasoline/electric Hybrid Synergy Drive system powering the Prius, Highlander and future hybrid vehicles, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., announced today. The wide-ranging campaign will include marketing, auto show and educational elements and launches Sept. 26. Much of the campaign is designed to reach consumers when they’re most likely to be thinking about their cars and fuel economy – while they’re driving. In addition, there will be a broadcast spot and print and interactive support.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial Project Foundation Announces Support From Toyota

In an announcement during their Congressional Leadership Awards luncheon, The Washington, D.C. Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial Project Foundation today received a $2 million contribution from Toyota. The contribution from Toyota’s North American companies, including Toyota Motor North America, Inc., Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc., Toyota Motor Manufacturing North America, Inc., and Toyota Financial Services, will be used to help build the memorial to Dr. King, which is set to break ground in late 2006 on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

Toyota’s Cheryl Jones is Recognized Among 100 Leading Women in the North American Auto Industry

Cheryl Jones, Project General Manager of Manufacturing at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Baja, California (TMMBC) has been named among 100 Leading Women in the North American Auto Industry by Automotive News. Jones and her co-honorees were featured in a special Sept. 26 issue of the publication and honored at a gala dinner in Detroit, sponsored by Automotive News. 100 Leading Women in the North American Auto Industry recognizes women who are leaders in the automotive field – those who make major decisions and have significant influence at their companies. Automotive News published its first listing of the industry’s top female executives in September 2000.

Toyota Team Members Volunteer at Martin Luther King Park in Lexington

As part of the 12th Annual National Public Lands Day activities, more than 100 volunteers including team members from Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky (TMMK) and community partners held a volunteer work day at Martin Luther King Park in the Windburn area of Lexington. NPLD is the nation’s largest hands-on volunteer effort to improve and enhance the public lands Americans enjoy. Last year nearly 90,000 volunteers built trails and bridges, planted trees and plants, and removed trash and invasive plants. Of those 90,000, nearly 1,700 were Toyota team members.

Toyota Announces Best-Ever Third Quarter and September Sales

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported best-ever September sales of 178,417 vehicles, an increase of 10.3 percent over last September, and best-ever third quarter sales of 600,196. Calendar-year-to-date (CYTD) sales total 1,714,266, up 11.3 percent over the same period last year. Toyota Division passenger cars recorded best-ever September sales of 96,780, up 22.9 percent over the same period last year. The Avalon full-size sedan recorded September sales of 8,707, up 270.8 percent. The Prius gas-electric hybrid mid-size sedan enjoyed best-ever September sales of 8,193, an increase of 90.1 percent. Corolla sales rose 12.2 percent with 29,446 units sold, while Camry sales were at 36,842 units, up 6.4 percent.

Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky Named as Sponsor of Lexington's Toyota Bluegrass Miracle League

During the Rotary Club of Lexington weekly meeting, it was announced that Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc., (TMMK) will be the official name sponsor of the TOYOTA BLUEGRASS MIRACLE LEAGUE. The TOYOTA BLUEGRASS MIRACLE LEAGUE is a charitable organization that will build and operate a special surface baseball field for all special needs children ages 4-19 throughout Kentucky. The Rotary Club of Lexington has adopted the fundraising project to build the Miracle League field, and the YMCA of Central Kentucky will manage the league. Play is scheduled to begin in the fall of 2006 at Shillito Park. Steve St. Angelo, TMMK Executive Vice President, said his company was elated to be part of a much needed program.

Guest Relations Association Tabs TMMK Tour Program Best In Class

Since the start of production in 1988, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK) has collected numerous awards for building high quality vehicles. Recently, the Georgetown plant was given a different honor when the Guest Relations Association recognized TMMK’s tour program as the “Best Tour In Class.” The Guest Relations Association consists of U.S. companies and corporations across all industries that host customers and visitors through some type of unique experience in the form of a tour of their museum, factory, or visitor center. The TMMK Visitor Center received the GRA “Best In Class” award based on visitors’ overall experience.

Toyota Reports October Sales

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported best-ever October sales of 173,086 vehicles, an increase of 5.2 percent over last October. Calendar-year-to-date (CYTD) sales total 1,887,352, up 10.7 percent over the same period last year. Toyota Division passenger cars recorded best-ever October sales of 90,756, up 12.3 percent over the same period last year. The Avalon full-size sedan recorded October sales of 8,195, up 222.7 percent. The Prius gas-electric hybrid mid-size sedan enjoyed best-ever October sales of 9,939, an increase of 68.6 percent.

Mae C. Jemison, First Woman of Color in Space, To Speak at Toyota’s 16th Annual Opportunity Exchange

Mae C. Jemison, the first woman of color in space and renowned scientist and physician, will serve as keynote speaker at Toyota Motor Manufacturing North America, Inc.’s (TMMNA) Opportunity Exchange 2005, its annual minority business conference and trade fair. The event will be held on Wednesday, November 30, 2005 from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center. TMMNA’s Opportunity Exchange, now in its 16th year, is a forum designed to provide minority business enterprises (MBEs) across the nation the chance to network and develop relationships with more than 275 of Toyota's suppliers. Toyota's Tier I suppliers, those who supply parts directly to Toyota, attend the event as exhibitors for the purpose of doing more business with minority-owned companies. Toyota expects more than 700 MBEs to attend this year's event.

Toyota Hits Milestone of Ten Million Engines Produced in North America

Toyota announced today that its four engines plants in North America have reached the ten million mark in engine production. Toyota also operates three casting plants to support the company’s powertrain operations. The milestone was recognized at Toyota engine facilities in Kentucky, West Virginia, Missouri, Alabama and Ontario, where Toyota’s engine production now employs nearly 3,500 and reflects investment of $2.23 billion.

Toyota Reports Best-Ever November Sales

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported best-ever November sales of 169,665 vehicles, an increase of 5.6 percent over last November. Calendar-year-to-date (CYTD) sales total 2,057,017, up 10.3 percent over the same period last year. Toyota Division passenger cars recorded best-ever November sales of 81,315, up 6.3 percent over the same period last year. The Avalon full-size sedan recorded November sales of 8,225, up 248 percent.

TMMK Issues Its 18th Annual In-Lieu-of-Tax Payment to Scott County Schools

Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK) presented a check for $1,179,911.00 to Scott County Schools, representing TMMK's eighteenth annual in-lieu-of-tax payment to the school system. TMMK financed portions of the original automobile manufacturing plant, the Powertrain facility, and the expanded manufacturing facility through Industrial Revenue Bonds. Since property financed through bonds is exempt from property taxation, the school system would usually not receive its share of property taxes on the financial property until the bonds mature in 2008.

All New Sixth-Generation Toyota Camry to Make World Debut at 2006 North American International Auto Show

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. will stage the world premier of the all-new 2007 Camry mid-size sedan and the much-anticipated Camry Hybrid at a press conference at the 2006 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The Toyota Camry has been the best-selling car in America for seven of the past eight years. The completely restyled and reengineered Camry will feature significantly improved performance and new level of comfort and refinement.

Toyota Brings MLK Exhibit to Central Kentucky

In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK) will bring an MLK traveling exhibit to Central Kentucky for public viewing. During the week of Jan. 9-13, the exhibit will be on display at TMMK’s Visitor Center, while the Lexington Convention Center will host the exhibit on Jan. 15-23, 2006.