Affordable Automated Braking Safety Packages Coming to Toyota Models
Toyota had a busy time last week at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS). Not only did the automaker unveil the eighth hybrid to grace its lineup in the RAV4 Hybrid, but it also donated a brand new modified RAV4 to US Army veteran Alfredo Delossantos. And on top of that, the Japanese automaker officially announced that it would be rolling out affordable automated braking safety packages to all models by the end of 2017.
Until now, such packages have usually been offered only on upper trim levels or in luxury brands’ models. Toyota wants to change that by making the safety technology available to a wider range of drivers, with the end result of making the road a safer place for everyone. The technology will initially roll out on the 2016 RAV4 and Avalon models, followed by three more models to be announced later this year. Toyota will keep rolling out the package to different models until all its vehicles are offered with this optional additional safety package.
“Taking high-level driver assist to the next level, the safety packages will be offered as a very-low-cost option and will be systematically introduced across nearly all U.S. Toyota and Lexus models and trim levels, top-to-bottom, by the end of 2017,” explained Jim Lentz, President and CEO Toyota Motor North America. “Pushing these systems across our lineup, as quickly as possible, can help protect people in the event of a crash. More importantly it will help prevent some crashes from ever happening in the first place.”
Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) helps prevent crashes in three ways: preventing or lessening the impact of rear collisions, keeping drivers within their own lanes, and enhancing safety at night. The technology will come as an optional add-on for buyers of compact vehicles for around $300, and for mid-size and premium models for around $500.
Stay tuned for more information on models that will receive this technology later on this year.
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