Toyota Urban Utility Concept Car U² makes global auto show debut in Toronto

• Inspired by, and designed for makers and the creative class, the Toyota U² Urban Utility concept answers the unique needs of today’s consumers
• All-new 2016 Prius and RAV4 Hybrid and interactive displays in the spotlight at the Toyota booth of the Canadian International Auto Show 

(TORONTO, ON – February 11, 2016) Visit Toyota and discover a vision for Ever Better Cars, beginning with the Toyota Urban Utility concept vehicle (“U Squared”), which makes its global motor show debut at the 2016 Canadian International Auto Show, February 12-21 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.  This unique concept introduces a fusion of utility van, truck and passenger car and compliments the rise of the do-it-yourself movement that is transforming cities with invention-focused Maker Faire events and growing entrepreneurship.  

“As a company of makers, Toyota has been driven by a passion for designing and engineering practical solutions to meet the ever-changing needs of its consumers.  The Toyota U² concept is an example of that – a vehicle tailored to those who make up today’s makers, creators and mobile entrepreneurs,” says Cyril Dimitris, Vice President, Sales, Toyota Canada Inc. “This creative class blurs the lines between work and play and we’re delighted to give Canadians the first look at this compelling vision of urban mobility.”

The U² concept is also the perfect vehicle for young, urban drivers who lead an active lifestyle and have embraced adventure.  It’s a flexible, functional mobile gadget that owners can customize according to their individual, on-the-go needs. Its custom graphics and interior colours and materials make the U² concept a reflection of the owner’s style, while its compact footprint makes the U² concept easy to drive and park in crowded urban cores.

“The U² is a compelling design exercise that delves into the increasing re-urbanization of our cities and urban drivers’ desire for flexibility, fun and maneuverability,” says Kevin Hunter, President of Calty, Toyota’s North American design studio. “Calty keeps a number of projects concealed while continuously exploring new ideas for unique concepts, and the U² gives people a rare look at the constant innovation and creative thinking that happens behind closed doors at Toyota and our Calty studios.”

Prior to developing this unique Urban Utility Concept vehicle, researchers at Calty met with notable makers in San Francisco, at the Bay Area Maker Faire, to understand their lifestyle, needs, and the challenges they face when it comes to mobility. The Toyota U² concept’s unique design and the details sparked by that research were not lost on the exclusive group of Toronto makers and entrepreneurs who were treated to a sneak preview earlier this week at the historic Arstcape Wychwood Barns, where they marveled at the unique configurability and features such as:  

• Side windows that flip up easily for more access from roadside
• Rear space that may be used anywhere from fully closed to completely open –
• Retracting roof panels
• Rear glass panel that slides into the tailgate
• A fold-down tailgate which reconfigures into a ramp
• Retractable utility bar to customize for unique uses, from workspace to grocery bag hooks
• A versatile utility rail system allowing configurations to accommodate everything from baskets to bike stands
• Foldable and removable front passenger seat
• Fold-up rear seating
• Durable underbody 
• Iconic modern design elements including a selection of colours and materials to suit a variety of tastes.

The Toyota U² headlines an impressive display of Toyota and Scion autos, SUVs and light-duty trucks at the auto show this year. Other highlights include:

2016 Toyota Prius

The all-new, fourth generation Toyota Prius arrives in dealer showrooms this winter. It’s the first vehicle to employ Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA) development program, and it’s ready to win over new fans with ground-breaking environmental performance, bold new styling and a fun-to-drive spirit.

2016 Toyota RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid

The 2016 RAV4 has been upgraded and is joined by the first-ever RAV4 Hybrid as Toyota continues to introduce the advanced efficiency of the Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive to more vehicles. Great things happen when the world’s most popular and proven hybrid powertrain joins forces with one of Toyota’s most popular vehicles – built right here in Canada.  And while you’re there, don’t forget to check out the RAV4’s unique Bird’s Eye View camera safety feature.

2016 Scion iM

Scion by Toyota will have a full line-up of models on display, including the newest addition – the Scion iM. This all-new model redefines Canada’s popular hatch-back segment with bold styling, dynamic handling and an extensive list of standard features – including many premium amenities.

Other “must-see” models

From the bold Yaris Sedan sub-compact and Corolla compact to the Prius c, the Toyota booth showcases a broad range of small cars that are big on style. Those looking for a full-sized ride will want to check out the newly-styled Avalon premium sedan. And truck fans won’t want to miss the next-generation, more rugged Tacoma – including its award-winning Atkinson cycle V6 that delivers more power, better towing and improved fuel efficiency – as well as the Tundra TRD Pro Series pickup truck.

Toyota technologies on show

Beyond vehicles, Toyota will have also lots of exciting technology on display. For fun and informative interactive experiences, learn about the Toyota Safety Sense system through a unique virtual reality simulator or explore passionate driving with the Toyota FT1 simulator.  And, with so many Hybrid vehicle options available from Toyota (the new RAV4 marks the seventh!), it’s a great time to learn about the many advantages of the Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive.

For more information on vehicles, technologies, and Toyota, visit www.toyota.ca.

To set up interviews regarding any of the above on site in Toronto on February 11^th, please contact:

Melanie Testani
PR Manager, Toyota Canada Inc.
melanie_testani@toyota.ca
416 571-5894

Sheri Helman
PR Consultant, Toyota Canada Inc.
sheri_helman@toyota.ca
+647-622-6325

@ToyotaCanada
#ToyotaU2

About Toyota Canada Inc.

Toyota Canada Inc. (TCI) is the exclusive Canadian distributor of Toyota, Lexus and Scion vehicles.  Toyota has sold over 4.9 million vehicles in Canada through a national network of 285 Toyota, Lexus and Scion dealerships.  Toyota is dedicated to bringing safety, quality, dependability and reliability in the vehicles Canadians drive and the service they receive.  TCI’s head office is located in Toronto, with regional offices in Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal and Halifax and parts distribution centres in Toronto and Vancouver.  Toyota operates two manufacturing facilities in Canada. Having produced more than six million vehicles, popular Canadian models built at these facilities include Toyota RAV4, Toyota Corolla, Lexus RX 350 and RX 450h hybrid.