The most wonderful time of the year has arrived. ‘Tis the season for—you guessed it…Toyotathon! While Toyota offers several impressive sales and savings opportunities throughout the year, none of them come close to the mega deals you can get through this end-of-year sale.
Toyotathon is when inventory levels and factory incentives come together for one big blowout sale. And as one of the premier Toyota dealers in North Carolina, we’ve got the inventory here at Mount Airy Toyota. There are tons of new vehicles in our lot that have been waiting for just the right home. We also have big incentive. As more of the new 2020 models roll into our showroom, we must make room. This will inevitably result in hundreds of 2019 and 2020 Toyota models going home this Toyotathon at a steal.
Has the new Tundra been on your wishlist for some time now? We’ve got ‘em. How about the new 4Runner or Camry? Or maybe you’ve been dreaming of getting your hands on the new souped-up Supra? Yes, we have all those too—and so much more.
As incredible as these Toyotathon deals are, however, don’t expect them to last. Our inventory is whittling down as we speak, so make sure to come by for a test drive soon!
Now, to get some ideas flowing for what your next big gift to yourself could be, we’ll take a look at the some of the top-selling Toyota models available today. But first, here’s a brief background on the Toyotathon event:
TOYOTATHON EXPLAINED
Since 1957, when manufacturing began in the United States, Toyota has been leading the American automobile industry in many respects. This is largely due to their continued dedication to quality and innovation, which has resulted in one best-selling vehicle after another and many groundbreaking designs.
Another major way in which Toyota has been a forerunner in the industry has its origins in 1977, when the company launched its first Toyotathon event. The sales team posed the question: What if we held several minor sales throughout the year and ended the year with the biggest sale anyone has ever seen? Thus, the first Toyotahon was born—a 24-hour sales event that set new records.
Since then, Toyota has held the blowout sales event every single year, frequently crushing sales records and always thrilling customers. Many automobile companies now follow this format, but none of them quite match the magnitude of Toyotathon.
Without further ado, let’s look at some of the Toyota models you can expect to see at his year’s Toyotathon. We’ll cover a few features of each, as well as what experts are saying about each model in general:
Tundra
The Tundra is Toyota’s full-size pickup, and it comes in six trim levels: SR, SR5, Limited, Platinum, 1794 Edition, and TRD Pro. Rear-wheel drive is standard, but four-wheel-drive is available. 
The Tundra’s most powerful engine, which is available in the four higher trims, is a 5.7-L, V8 engine good for 381 horsepower and 401 foot-pounds of torque. Buyers of the 2019 SR or SR5 can opt for a 4.6-L, V8 engine that produces 310 hp and 327 lb-ft of torque, though this engine is not offered on the incoming 2020 Tundra.
“It pulls strongly off the line and there’s a burbly exhaust note trailing in your wake. The six-speed automatic shifts smoothly, and always seems to be in exactly the gear I want.”
— CNET RoadShow
Perhaps the most impressive characteristic of the Tundra is the size and storage space of the backseat, which is a cut above the competition—especially when you opt for the crew cab. It also has better standard safety features than others in its class (e.g., Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, Nissan Titan), as well as some stellar off-road capability.
If you like the outdoors and/or need a solid pickup for towing, the Tundra will get the job done. And it’ll look good doing it.
If you’ve been looking for just the right Toyota Tundra for sale, chances are we have it!
Tacoma
Now for the Tundra’s little brother—the Toyota Tacoma. The Tacoma is a midsize pickup also available in six trims: SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro. 
The SR and SR5 trims are stocked with a 2.7-L, four-cylinder engine that yields 159 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. The other four trims come with a 3.5L V6 that produces 278 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque.
“The midsize pickup truck market has been growing, but it’s fair to say that the Toyota Tacoma is still the odds-on favorite for a lot of shoppers. From its basic work-truck configuration to luxury-oriented or off-road variants, the Tacoma is simply one of the most well-rounded pickups on sale today.”
— Edmunds
The Tacoma has been a leading compact/midsize truck since its advent in 1995, and it seems to evolve into an even better pickup each year.
If you’ve been looking for a Toyota Tacoma for sale in NC, look no further than Mount Airy Toyota. We also have a great selection of used Toyota Tacoma trucks for sale!
4Runner
Built on the same body-on-frame construction as the Tacoma, buyers can find the Toyota 4Runner in seven trim levels: SR5, SR5 Premium, TRD Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium, TRD Pro, 
Limited, and Limited Nightshade.
A 4.0-L, V6 engine is standard on the 4Runner, and it delivers 270 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque. Paired with this engine is a five-speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission with Intelligence (ECT-I). This combo makes for the best acceleration, power and stability yet in a 4Runner.
“Toyota’s solid 4Runner remains one of the last truck-based mid-size SUVs and serves as a multitool on wheels. With a respectable 5,000-pound towing capacity and nearly 90 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume, the 4Runner blends capability and off-road prowess.”
— Cars.com
Like many other Toyota models, the 4Runner has a well-established reputation and only gets better with time. To find the right Toyota 4Runner for sale in NC, simply come to our dealership!
RAV4
The 4Runner’s smaller sibling, the RAV4, comes in five different trim levels: LE, XLE, XLE Premium, Adventure, Limited, and XSE Hybrid. Each one comes standard with a 2.5-L, four-cylinder 
engine good for 203 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, as well as, an eight-speed automatic transmission.
“Don’t let the rugged styling of the all-new 2019 Toyota RAV4 fool you: Underneath that off-road-inspired design is a compact SUV that still offers a roomy interior, easygoing comfort, a slew of standard advanced safety features, good fuel economy, and is backed by a tradition of excellent resale value and reliability.”
— Kelley Blue Book
Perhaps more than any other Toyota model, the RAV4 is consistently evolving in pretty much every area—from appearance to performance to comfort. Maybe that’s why it was the best-selling SUV and fourth overall best-selling vehicle in the U.S. in 2019.
The best place to find the RAV4 of your dreams is at a premier Toyota dealer of NC like Mount Airy Toyota!
Camry
The Camry has been the best-selling sedan for so many years that it needs no introduction. It comes in five trims—L, LE, SE, XLE, and XSE. 
There are three different engines available on the Camry. The first is a 2.5-L, four-cylinder that produces 203 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. Then there’s a 3.5-L, V6 that’s good for 301 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque. The available Hybrid system includes a 2.5-L, four-cylinder that exudes 176 hp and 163 lb-ft of torque.
“The new Camry offers sleeker styling, but it’s the improved fuel economy and handling, plus standard advanced safety systems, that distinguish it among the crowd of midsized sedans.”
— Consumer Reports
When it comes to all-around great vehicles for families, it’s hard to beat the Camry. Since its major overhaul in platform, styling and dynamics in 2018, the Camry doesn’t really have any weak spots. It’s safe, it rides and handles great, it provides impressive performance, it looks awesome, and the list goes on.
If you’re dreaming of a Camry as your Toyotathon purchase, we’ve got plenty of them!
Corolla
As with the Camry, the Corolla has been a staple in the automobile industry for many years. It currently comes in six trims: L, LE, LE Eco, XLE, SE, and XSE. All of the trim levels come stock with 
a 1.8-L, inline-four engine that boasts more than 30 miles per gallon.
“You should buy the Corolla if you are in search of a well-built compact car that’s loaded with lots of safety and technology features.”
— US News and World Report
It’s extremely hard to beat the Corolla when it comes to overall quality in compact cars. Along with superior fuel economy and class-leading standard safety features, the Corolla holds the highest predicted reliability rating on the market. Plus, it has a lot of passenger space (especially the sedan models), and it looks really, really good coming and going.
Mount Airy Toyota is the place to come if you’re looking for a Toyota Corolla in NC!
Supra
The first fifth-generation Supra is on the way, and there are three trim levels available: 3.0, 3.0 Premium, and Launch Edition. Like the rest of the car, the engine was built in cahoots with BMW; the B58 engine is a turbocharged beast. It’s a 3.0-L, inline-six capable of 335 hp and 365 lb-ft of torque, and it’s paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The Supra will have you at 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds, and you’ll cover a quarter-mile in 12.3 seconds at 113 mph.
“This is a genuinely transcendent product, pushing the limits of what’s possible in a competitive class … get behind the wheel and the end result is a product that far exceeds any preconceived notions.”
— Motor 1
It truly is something to behold. For those searching for a Toyota Supra for sale in NC, roll on over to Mount Airy Toyota!
Indeed, there is a plethora of deals at our dealership this Toyotathon season. You can expect incredible offers on a wide variety of Toyota models, including more than we mentioned here! Some even include special financing and lease options, as well as military and college graduate rebates.
Along with new cars, we also have tons of new trade-ins that we need to move fast. For those in the market for a used vehicle, don’t miss out on a deal of a lifetime—keep posted on our inventory, give us a call, and/or come in and meet one of our experienced team members. If you’re wanting to trade in a vehicle, don’t wait—value your trade and apply for financing online today.
There’s no better time to buy a vehicle. Come by Mount Airy Toyota during Toyotathon to talk to our sales agents and take your dream car for a test drive. We’re located at 508 N Andy Griffith Parkway, Mount Airy, NC 27030. You can also find us online at mountairytoyota.com or call us at (336) 786-2118.
Happy Toyotathon!
The Toyota Yaris Hatchback managed to create a cult-like following due to its small, sporty design that slightly resembled that of a smart car—at least one that has been steadily hitting the gym. So when Toyota announced the discontinuation of the venerated hatchback, there was immediate pushback. Now, one year since sporty three-door sedan was silenced, it is slated to return.
Towards the end of the 90s and into the 2000s, amidst a car market filled with SUVs, Toyota unleashed the Yaris Hatchback. It was small, a blast to drive, and practically ran forever (you can still see tons of these early models cruising the streets today). And with a price tag around $16,000, it was not difficult talking drivers into trying out a classic, three-door sedan. But in 2018 Toyota announced it would not be including the Yaris Hatchback in the 2019 lineup.
So now it’s a year later and Toyota has some good news—scratch that, great news: the Toyota Yaris Hatchback is back and added to the 2020 lineup! Moreover, this three-door model has a few surprises up its sleeve. What brought about the resurrection? Well, it seems that Toyota’s close relationship with Mazda (both companies have already partnered on a subcompact model) continues, as Mazda has taken the reins to help rebuild the Yaris Hatchback by repurposing the Mazda 2. But don’t get the wrong impression. The 2020 Yaris Hatchback is fully a Toyota, and it’s way better than ever.
So Why Go Hatchback?
If you are in the market for a new car, and are considering a hatchback—as many car buyers these days are—there are a few things to consider. In fact, we’ve come up with a list of five tips to think about before you get too far along in the process. Here they are:
- They’re for fun and family. Today’s hatchbacks typically come in two styles: compact and midsize. The compact is closest in form to its ancestors, except that it has much more power and flare. These are sporty, fun-to-drive cars with two doors and the iconic scrunched rear. Though they’re small, they are the perfect weekend ride with or without the family.
The midsize is a four-door wagon-like car that maintains the hatchback look (as it does have the hatch in the back), but it is considerably larger than the compact model and does not seem to maintain the same amount of zippiness expected in such a cool looking vehicle.
- Is the new hatchback an SUV crossover? Not really, but some hatchbacks coming out are large enough to be considered a small SUV, or a large sedan. The 2020 Yaris Hatchback fits somewhere in the middle—not quite an SUV but not really a sedan either. It’s unique, to say the least. Unlike the sport utility vehicle and the sedan, new hatchbacks still allow for the rear seats to fold down in order to provide even more cargo space. This might seem like a minor detail, but once you actually lay eyes on the space created from losing the back seats, you’ll realize this is a big selling point, one that may be part of the reason the Yaris is back.
- An easier drive. Since the hatchback integrates the trunk space into the rear of the car more so than any other, it is shorter in length. This means it is easier to park and maneuver around tight spaces. This is great for big cities and congested areas and can make your life so much better.
And the ease doesn’t stop there. Take any modern hatchback and compare its turning radius to that of a typical sedan of the same price range and you’ll notice a big difference. Hatchbacks make sharp turns simple, quick, and fun. And you can’t help but feel a little safer knowing that.
- Low cost is a big selling point. Because they are smaller in nature than a sedan (and definitely smaller than an SUV or crossover), hatchbacks don’t cost as much. Not only that, but they also do better on fuel, and that’s not even considering the hybrid and all-electric versions of the hatchback.
- Rise in Popularity. Don’t believe the naysayers who love to hate on the hatchback, whether old or new. The truth is, the American hatchback is on its way up!
The New Yaris Hatchback at a Glance
Here is a quick look at what to expect in the 2020 Yaris Hatchback:
- It has a 1.5-liter inline-four engine with 106 horsepower and 103 lb-ft of torque
- It comes with a six-speed automatic transmission
- It’s close to ten inches shorter (161.6-inches) than the Yaris sedan, but somehow offers more cargo space behind the first row and on into the trunk
- It offers an estimated 40 mpg highway
- Comes in two trim levels: the LE and XLE
- The starting price is around $19,000
A Bold New Look
The 2020 Yaris Hatchback has a different look from years past; as a matter of fact, it doesn’t much look like any other hatchback on the road today. The biggest difference is that the Yaris looks tough. Cool, rugged, tough, these words do not usually describe a mini sedan, especially one with only three doors. But the new Yaris Hatchback is different.
Looking at the Yaris dead-on it resembles that of a bulldog with its legs and body hunkered down, ready to attack. The sharp headlights and flashy hexagon grille stare boldly ahead and project an unexpected confidence. And car-buyers have the option to add daytime running lights, as well as, a palette of vibrant colors to choose from: Stealth, Graphite, Pulse, Sapphire, Chromium, Frost, and Icicle.
Quality in a Small Package
16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, body-color side mirror and door handles, and a chrome tailpipe tip all come standard on the new Yaris. In addition, the side mirrors are power-adjustable, heated, and house LED turn signals. Here are a few more standard features offered:
- A first aid kit
- Driver and front passenger sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors
- Chrome interior door handles
- A tilt and telescoping steering wheel
- A rear backup camera
- Variable intermittent windshield wipers
- Fog lights
- Smart Key Entry with Push Button Start
Now, let’s talk multimedia. The 7-inch touchscreen uses six speakers perfectly placed throughout the interior to blast your favorite music while you zip around curves and maneuver into tight spaces. And the Yaris Hatchback comes with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—as well as voice recognition and Bluetooth wireless technology. Also, the 7-inch screen can be operated by touch or remote.
With the purchase of the car comes a three-month All Access trial of SiriusXM Satellite Radio; this means commercial free stations and over 150 channels. Audio and phone can be operated from the steering wheel, so the driver can concentrate on things like, you know, driving. There are also plenty of USB ports throughout to keep everyone charged and connected.
One added surprise to the 2020 Yaris Hatchback is the inclusion, for both the LE and XLE, of a navigation system. All the car owner has to do is purchase the necessary SD card from the Toyota dealer and activate the navigation hardware.
And, looking only at the XLE model, Toyota adds leatherette-seating surfaces of either black or gray, as well as automatic climate control; a shift knob and parking brake handle; a leather-trimmed steering wheel; rain-sensing windshield wipers; and automatic climate control.
Big on Safety
One of the best qualities of the Toyota Hatchback is its commitment to safety. The 2020 model comes equipped with a Low-speed Pre-collision Safety System that scans the road ahead of you for potential collisions. And if danger is detected, an audio/visual and braking system is engaged—in conditions where a collision is certain and the driver does not respond, the Yaris will automatically apply the brakes.
Here are a few more safety features found standard on both trim levels of the 2020 Yaris Hatchback:
- Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
- Traction Control System (TCS)
- Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
- Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
- Brake Assist (BA)
- Brake Override System (BOS)
Plus, there are six airbags, including curtain airbags that help protect those sitting in the rear.
Other Hatchbacks Toyota Has to Offer
Can’t wait for the arrival of the new 2020 Yaris Hatchback? Worry not, we have plenty to offer:
Corolla Hatchback:
- Comes with a starting MSRP of $20,140
- Offers 30/38 estimated miles-per-gallon
- Has three trim levels—SE (L4 2.0L, 6MT); SE (L4 2.0L, CVT); and XSE (L4 2.0L, 6MT)
- Available with a dynamic force engine; optimized suspension; leather-trimmed sport seats; 6-speed intelligent manual transmission; rear window spoiler; and wearable connectivity
- It also comes with a chrome grille surround, LED taillights, LED fog lights, 18-inch alloy wheels, and piano-black accents and soft-touch materials throughout
Prius C:
- Comes with a starting MSRP of $21,530
- Has an estimated 48/43 mpg
- Available in seven different colors—Tide Pool Pearl, Blizzard Pearl, Classic Silver Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Black Sand Pearl, Absolutely Red, and Blue Streak Metallic
- Offered in an L or LE trim level
- Features the following: pre-collision system with pedestrian detection; lane departure alert; automatic high beams; a sporty exterior shape; 15-inch alloy wheels; versatile design; 60/40 split rear seating; and a premium interior
- And as far as technology goes, there is a standard backup camera, a smart key system with a push-bottom start, and a multi-information display
Come in today and test drive the all-new Toyota hatchbacks, and be sure to ask about the soon-to-come Yaris Hatchback. At Mount Airy Toyota we are confident you will be impressed with these blasts from the past and, as always, you simply won’t find better pricing anywhere else. See you soon!
-Andrae Bergeron
When you close your eyes and think of the future, do the cars look the same as they do now? Probably not. You probably envision something with clean lines, a sleek exterior, and an almost seamless interior. There probably are not a lot of buttons, but the vehicle is certainly still engaging. The car you see when you close your eyes is on another level from anything on the road today, but that car that you are thinking of is exactly what Toyota is striving for with the futuristic designs they have released for Concept-I, rightfully named “Yui.”
While the images released of this vehicle appear strikingly realistic, they are just that, images; the Concept-I vehicle is not set to be released anytime soon. Rather, this concept is a plan for vehicles of the future. By creating this model, Toyota hopes to begin to predict how vehicles of the future will behave and look. To accomplish this, Toyota has had to ponder some of the most important questions to drivers everywhere: What will our cars look like? How will they function? Will we drive them, or will they drive us?
Appearance
It should not come as a secret that drivers want their vehicles to take them places safely and efficiently; however, as sportier models have become more popular, many drivers have felt a need to enjoy the thrill of their drive at the same time. While Toyota is trying to cater to these driving desires, they also want the car to feel warm, friendly, and engaging.
In order to have the vehicle meet the aesthetic they were chasing, Toyota took a user-centric approach to designing the concept, moving from the inside out with a strong focus on how the user would experience all that the vehicle has to offer.
Toyota has released images of the white version of the vehicle; however, it is unclear if they already have other color options in mind. The trendy white and bronze-gold interior of the vehicle appears to comfortably seat four passengers, with room for rear storage.
Functionality was not the only feature in consideration when designing Concept-I; the geniuses behind the vehicle also included expressive sculptural qualities and elegant graphic abilities. The minimal, yet stylistic, interior is designed to help further support the user experience and Yui’s ability to communicate with the driver using light, sound, and touch.
Grow as Yui Go
Along with its stellar interior appearance, the Concept-I is designed to focus on connecting with the actual mind of the driver. To do this, Yui is equipped with a powerful artificial intelligence system that learns the driver’s patterns and preferences to foster a beneficial relationship between the human and the vehicle.
Along with understanding your schedule, there are also plans for the Concept-I to connect with the driver on a deeper level. By combining a range of intelligent technologies, there is hope that the vehicle will be able to gauge the driver’s emotions. For example, if the driver is beginning to feel tired or has been driving for a long time, the vehicle might offer to take over driving functions so the user can sit back and enjoy the rest of the ride. The same can also be said if the driver is feeling sad.
Having the ability to understand the driver and their needs means that the intelligence system within the vehicle will eventually be able to anticipate when and where a driver might need assistance. Because of this, the Concept-I will be able to increase driving safety, hopefully creating a bond between the human and the vehicle that is more friendly than necessary. Building these types of personal connections will help ensure that the user connection is built like any other strong relationship on the values of trust and loyalty. Toyota has even said that they hope the immersive technology will lead drivers to feel like Yui is more of a friend than a car that they are navigating the road with.
Planning Ahead
Since the release of the concept, there has been a great deal of excitement around when the vehicle will be available for purchase. According to the masterminds at Toyota, the vehicle should be released for testing and public trials sometime in 2020. While some critics have said that the release of these vehicles has been too long, Toyota executives have made it clear that their focus on the importance of user safety far outweighs the timeframe these critics had in mind for the vehicle’s release.
Written by Morgan Evans
Demand for plug-in electric vehicles (EVs) is growing, though they still only claimed about 2% of the U.S. market share in 2018 (global market share is similar). That number includes battery-operated vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).
The thought on everyone’s mind: is this the future of driving?
The primary difference between the two types of vehicles is that a BEV runs solely off the energy from the vehicle’s battery, while a PHEV uses the battery alongside a fuel tank that kicks in at various intervals. There would be clear benefits to drivers and the environment if BEVs were to become mainstream. However, there are currently just too many drawbacks to know how successful the BEV market can become. While many proponents are hopeful that BEVs will eventually become commonplace, the future of these vehicles remains largely unknown due to a number of unanswered questions and issues yet to be resolved. For instance, how will drivers have access to charging their vehicles? Will there be convenient charging stations like there are gas stations? Also, can we expect improvements to be made with batteries in the future?
This article will explore the potential advantages of a BEV-driven world and the challenges that BEV drivers currently face, and we’ll take a look at some of the main questions and issues that are too prevalent to be ignored.
ADVANTAGES OF A BEV-HEAVY MARKET
Even though we are still in the early stages of developing electric vehicles, BEVs currently come with many benefits, and it’s not hard to see how these benefits could become even more impactful as technology improves.
Lower Operating Costs
For one, it’s much cheaper to charge a BEV than it is to run a traditional vehicle off of gas; it’s actually about one-third of the cost. Also, a BEV contains very few moving parts compared to a traditional vehicle, which means it’s less expensive to maintain. For instance, with a BEV you don’t have to worry about servicing a starter motor, fuel injection system, exhaust system, or radiator, among many other components. Though many improvements need to be made to these vehicles’ batteries, most BEV manufacturers provide an eight-year warranty on their batteries even now.
Environmental Benefits
Some of the most obvious advantages are those that benefit the environment. BEVs have virtually no exhaust emissions, which means they emit much less pollution than traditional vehicles do. And if you use renewable energy for charging, greenhouse gas emissions are reduced even lower. For example, rather than charging from the grid, you can use a polar PV system while there’s daylight. If you must use the grid, you can still minimize greenhouse gas emissions by purchasing green power from your electricity company.
Even the manufacturing of some of the top BEVs is eco-conscious. For instance, the Ford Focus Electric and Nissan Leaf are largely made of recycled and bio-based materials, such as plastic bags, water bottles, and second-hand car parts and home appliances.
Health and Safety
Along with the financial and environmental benefits, BEVs can help improve our health and safety. Less pollution from exhaust means better air quality, which can reduce health problems caused by pollution, and BEVs create much less noise pollution than traditional vehicles. Also, since BEVs typically have a lower center of gravity, they are less likely to roll over. Furthermore, fires aren’t as much of a risk, and the body structure of BEVs can prove more durable in a collision.
DISADVANTAGES OF CURRENT BEV MARKET
Of course, there are also drawbacks to BEVs. While they have enjoyed success, it has been with a limited group of consumers.
Charging Times
Tesla has led innovation in the BEV market in many ways, including its Supercharger networks, which can charge vehicles in about 30 minutes. However, that’s still a lot more time than it takes to fill the gas tank of a traditional vehicle. What’s more, scientists behind the efforts of manufacturers like Tesla and Toyota have their doubts about the possibility of reducing charging times enough to satisfy mainstream consumers. And since Toyota has been in the electric vehicle game for over 20 years, that speaks to the magnitude of this problem.
Electricity Generated
Another prevalent issue with BEVs is that they require electricity, which must come from somewhere. In states like California, most of the electricity comes from natural gas supplies, but states like West Virginia use coal to generate up to 90% of its electricity. Overall, about 38% of electricity in the United States is generated by coal. This begs the question: just how clean and green are electric cars? In short, it depends on where in the country you are driving. Furthermore, the lithium-ion batteries used by manufacturers like Tesla contain components that can potentially harm the environment by way of ecological toxicity and contributing to global warming.
Limited Categories
Finally, you don’t see any BEVs that fall under the heavy-duty truck category. This is mainly because the technology isn’t workable for truck applications—and it won’t be anytime soon. This is a serious problem because there are 2 to 3 million heavy-duty trucks on the road in the U.S. Much of the American economy depends on Class 8 commercial trucks, which guzzle 30 times more gas than the average automobile (about 35 billion gallons each year).
It’s difficult to see how BEV technology could advance enough to accommodate the heavy-duty truck category in the foreseeable future. However, if such trucks were able to be produced in an electric format, it could drastically decrease oil dependence and significantly benefit the trucking industry financially.
THE IMPORTANCE OF CHARGING STATIONS
There are currently about 20,000 public charging stations and 57,000 outlets for plug-in electric vehicles in the U.S. Here’s the thing: 4,800 of those stations and 18,200 of those outlets are found in California. Not surprisingly, California has also accounted for almost half of all BEV sales in the country since 2011. If there is hope for the BEV market to experience continued growth—and especially if battery-operated cars are to become mainstream—there must be more charging stations created throughout the country.
In a sense, the future popularity of BEVs in any particular area of the country depends on the accessibility of charging stations in that area. However, it gets tricky because states that don’t sell a lot of BEVs are less inclined to invest in public charging stations, but if they never decide to invest, then their sales will probably not improve by much. Therefore, there must be a break in the cycle at some point if BEVs are to become commonplace in the future.
Sure, there are some people who could charge their BEV at home, but that’s a limited category of consumers. Without an adequate number of charging stations open to the public, much like gas stations are, BEVs will never reach the mainstream. To put it into perspective, there are approximately 168,000 public gas stations in the U.S.—more than eight times the number of charging stations. The majority of consumers will never make the jump to BEVs until that gap is dramatically closing.
THE ROLE OF BATTERIES
As essential as charging stations are for the future of BEVs, batteries may play an even more important role. And BEV batteries need to undergo a lot of development if electric vehicles are to become commonplace.
Battery Anxiety
The term “battery anxiety” is often used in reference to one running out of battery power on their smartphone. We’ve all seen the symptoms: a family member searching frantically for a charger cable; a co-worker turning their desk over, only to ask you if they can borrow a charger; even a stranger asking if they can PowerShare with your phone. Chances are you’ve experienced the symptoms yourself. In a study administered by electronics manufacturer LG, 9 out of 10 people showed signs of battery anxiety.
The same logic is behind the term “range anxiety” in reference to electric vehicles. If such a phenomenon has that kind of grip on people with smartphones, you can imagine the impact of this anxiety when it comes to driving a car. Range anxiety is one reason why many consumers won’t even consider going the BEV route.
Most BEVs allow drivers to go about 100 miles fully charged (the Tesla Model S is an exception, as it allows drivers around 250 miles). This is another reason why the scarcity of charging stations is such a severe problem. Nonetheless, many manufacturers have pledged to develop BEVs that will hit about 200 miles per charge. That would surely make a big difference, but it’s still a far cry from a conventional vehicle that can go 300 to 400 miles on a full tank of gas.
The Problem with Lithium-Ion Batteries
Most newer electric cars these days are powered by lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are not without their advantages, such as the fact that they are light-weight (as compared to lead-acid batteries), relatively low-maintenance and can last for 8-10 years. However, there are some serious issues to consider as well.
For example, lithium-ion batteries are expensive. While a high-end lead-acid battery—as used in most traditional vehicles—costs around $120, a typical lithium-ion car battery costs in the $1,700 range. Also, lithium is highly reactive. This means if they are damaged or installed incorrectly, they can explode.
Moreover, the cells used in lithium-ion batteries are made with rare-earth metals; the supply of these metals is limited, and they’re dangerous to mine. Most workers who are tasked with retrieving rare-earth metals are laboring in harsh conditions, to say the least (and in some cases this means illegal child laborers).
The Prospect of Flow Batteries
Enter a new hope for BEV proponents: the “flow battery.” Scientists are currently working on this new type of refillable battery that they hope will replace lithium-ion as the commonplace battery in BEVs. The strongest appeal of the flow battery is that it solves most of the biggest problems consumers have with BEVs.
Depending on the model of vehicle and the power source used, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 10 hours to fully charge a lithium-ion battery in a BEV. If the flow battery is a success, it will allow drivers to empty their battery liquid and pump in new liquid in minutes—roughly the same time it would take to fill a gas tank.
What’s more, since the basic infrastructure is already there, it would be easier for gas stations everywhere to be retrofitted to pump this battery liquid in place of gas. This means that the scarcity of charging stations would no longer be a problem—thus, no more range anxiety. There is still a lot of progress to be made in the development of flow batteries, but it’s possible we will see some form of them in the next three years.
THE BOTTOM LINE
It’s easy to see how drivers and the environment would benefit from a BEV-driven market. All things considered, they are a more eco-conscious alternative to traditional vehicles, they are cheaper to operate, and they offer health and safety benefits. That said, BEVs have their share of drawbacks as well.
If BEVs are ever to enter the mainstream, more charging stations and better batteries must be made available. It looks like the work is being done to solve these issues, but only time will tell whether or not BEVs are indeed the future.
In the early 1960s, the hatchback vehicle was introduced to America and we fell in love with it…at least for a time. Though it lost some of its luster throughout the years, the hatchback’s innovative design has been a major influence on what we see on the roads today. Maybe this is why we are currently experiencing a strong reemergence of the hatchback vehicle—is it time for a blast from the past? At Mount Airy Toyota, we like the prospect of seeing more hatchback vehicles on the road, and we have plenty on our lot to offer, so we thought a little history lesson on the cool-looking car could benefit us all.
Characteristics of the Hatchback
The original hatchbacks were simple cars fitted with a rear door, hinged to the roof, that opened upwards much like a—you guessed it—hatch. These vehicles were rather squatted with a two-box body style. “Two-box” means the trunk and passenger area can easily consist of one volume of space by folding seats down, while the engine is separated into its own volume that can only be accessed by popping the hood. Most vehicles today are designed to be either a two- or three-box system.
The original appeal of the hatchback car was not just its sleek, new (at least for its era) look. Car buyers simply loved the fact that you could fold the back seats down to create a massive trunk space, and that the vehicle often came with a removable rigid parcel shelf or a roll-up Tonneau Cover. These were features new to the car industry and they were quite impressive.
There is also what’s known as a liftback, which is a hatchback with a single slope from the roofline to the bumper (picture a 1969 Ford Mustang) that has a more horizontal angle than the standard hatchback.
Both versions were incredibly popular upon their arrival in the 1930s and 1940s, and the hatch-like door for which the vehicle gets its name can be seen in just about every SUV made today. Of course, nowadays we don’t even have to touch the hatch for it to open; just swing a leg under the back bumper and it magically rises on its own. Oh, how far we have come!
The Early Stages of the Hatchback
In 1938 Citroen produced the first hatchback, called the 11CV Commerciale. This large hunk of a machine possessed a tailgate that came in two pieces: a top door hinged from the roof, and a bottom door hinged from below. The car sold well enough for Citroen to continue marketing them, and soon after World War II they designed a version of the 11CV Commerciale that had one door hinged from the top only. Though this car was big and bulky and came with a massive rear hatch, it lead to later designs such as the 1949 Vagabond and Traveler vehicles that were more sleek and small, like a modern sedan. It is these models of the hatchback that have been described as the major influences for the hatchbacks manufactured in America sometime later.
America’s Version of the Hatchback
Just like our current obsession with crossover vehicles (a morphing of the modern sedan and SUV) when the hatchback hit the States, most Americans were quite impressed.
Once they noticed their popularity in Europe, big car companies like Chrysler, Ford, and GM immediately went to work on designing a model of our own. Though the first models of the hatchback in the 1960s did well, like the Ford Pinto and Ford Bobcat, it was the Dodge Omni and the Plymouth Horizon, both released in 1978, that set the standard for America’s version of the vehicle. Then later, in the 1980s, the Dodge Shadow and Dodge Lancer managed to keep America’s love affair with the hatchback alive.
Despite the decades of progress and popularity with the hatchback, its inclusion into modern life in the late 80s and into the 90s began to wane. We started to want bigger cars with more space and room to move around. Station wagons provided this, as did the entry of the Sport Utility Vehicle and, as fads always do, the American hatchback slowly lost its tracking.
But just as fads fade away, it only takes a handful of years before they reemerge into popular culture, often with a new take on an old idea. And if you have been paying much attention to what’s new in the world of vehicles, it seems the hatchback is on its way back into our lives.
A New Savior?
It’s tough to say why things come back into fashion. Have we run out of ideas? Is there really nothing new under the sun? Just look at the fashion industry and you can see just how circular trends can be. Despite the dubious nature of American trends, there could be an easy explanation for why the hatchback is reemerging. There’s no disputing the fact we see more SUVs and crossovers on the road than sedans these days, as the car industry has had a massive drop in sedan sales over the last decade. With this in mind, it could be said the arrival of modernized hatchbacks is an effort to popularize the sedan again (or at least a modernized version of it).
According to an article from USA Today, “In 2017, compact and subcompact car sales are down 25%.” Though this may not seem like much of a drop in number, even the smallest fluctuation in sales, either up or down, can have drastic repercussions. The article goes on to say that “Hatchbacks in those classes have risen 16%.” So with one (the sedan) going down, and the other (the hatchback) going up in sales, it’s safe to say the projected models of hatchbacks to come out in the next few years will test the market strength of this new style of sedan. Actually, that 16% figure already indicates an interest in the hatchback design by American car buyers, and the hope is this number will continue to rise. And judging from what we have seen in sales at Mount Airy Toyota, an increase does indeed seem probable.
The Modern Hatchback
So if you are in the market for a new car, and are considering a hatchback—as many car buyers these days are—there are a few things to consider. In fact, we’ve come up with a list of five tips to think about before you get too far along in the process. Here they are:
- Fun or Family? Today’s hatchbacks typically come in two styles: compact and midsize. The compact is closest in form to its ancestors, except that it has much more power and pizazz. These are sporty, fun-to-drive cars with two doors and the iconic scrunched rear. Though they’re small, they are the perfect weekend ride.
The midsize is a four-door wagon-like car that maintains the hatchback look (as it does have the hatch in the back), but it is considerably larger than the compact model. This car could actually serve as a nice family vehicle with plenty of room to stretch and store goods.
- A New Crossover? Not all, but some hatchbacks coming out are large enough to be considered a small SUV, or a large sedan. But unlike the sport utility vehicle and the sedan, new hatchbacks still allow for the rear seats to fold down in order to provide even more cargo space. This might seem like a minor detail, but once you actually lay eyes on the space created from losing the back seats, you’ll realize this is a big selling point.
- An Easier Drive. Since the hatchback integrates the trunk space into the rear of the car more so than any other, it is shorter in length. This means it is easier to park and maneuver around tight spaces. This is great for big cities and congested areas and can make your life so much better.
And the ease doesn’t stop there. Take any modern hatchback and compare its turning radius to that of a typical sedan of the same price range and you’ll notice a big difference. Hatchbacks make sharp turns simple, quick, and fun. And you can’t help but feel a little safer knowing that.
- Low Cost, Big Results. Because they are smaller in nature than a sedan (and definitely smaller than an SUV or crossover), hatchbacks don’t cost as much. Not only that, but they also do better on fuel, and that’s not even considering the hybrid and all-electric versions of the hatchback—yes, the modern hatchback can come as gas-powered, hybrid, or electric!
- Rise in Popularity. Don’t believe the naysayers who love to hate on the hatchback, whether old or new. The truth is, the American hatchback is on its way up! That 16% rise in sales mentioned earlier is just the tip of the iceberg. Hatchbacks are back and they’re here to win America’s hearts all over again.
Toyota’s New Hatchbacks
Currently, Toyota has some impressive hatchbacks to offer, two of which we find to be our favorites: one in the Corolla and another in the Prius. Let’s have a look at some of the specs for each.
Corolla Hatchback:
- Comes with a starting MSRP of $20,140
- Offers 30/38 estimated miles-per-gallon
- Has three trim levels—SE (L4 2.0L, 6MT); SE (L4 2.0L, CVT); and XSE (L4 2.0L, 6MT)
- Available with a dynamic force engine; optimized suspension; leather-trimmed sport seats; 6-speed intelligent manual transmission; rear window spoiler; and wearable connectivity
- It also comes with a chrome grille surround, LED taillights, LED fog lights, 18-inch alloy wheels, and piano-black accents and soft-touch materials throughout
Prius C:
- Comes with a starting MSRP of $21,530
- Has an estimated 48/43 mpg
- Available in seven different colors—Tide Pool Pearl, Blizzard Pearl, Classic Silver Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Black Sand Pearl, Absolutely Red, and Blue Streak Metallic
- Offered in an L or LE trim level
- Features the following: pre-collision system with pedestrian detection; lane departure alert; automatic high beams; a sporty exterior shape; 15-inch alloy wheels; versatile design; 60/40 split rear seating; and a premium interior
- And as far as technology goes, there is a standard backup camera, a smart key system with a push-bottom start, and a multi-information display
See to Believe
There are plenty more specs to both Toyota hatchbacks, but this is one type of vehicle you really have to see to believe. There’s just something about its performance, its comfortable-cool atmosphere that just can’t be explained.
Like it or not, the hatchback is about to experience its own renaissance and we couldn’t be more excited. Just take a look at what we have on our lot right now—
- 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback (SE CVT) in Blizzard Pearl for only $21,842
- 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback (XSE CVT) in Blizzard Pearl for only $26,681
- 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback (SE CVT) in Classic Silver Metallic for only $21,692
Come in today and test drive the all-new Toyota hatchbacks. Mount Airy Toyota is confident you will be impressed with this blast from the past and, as always, you simply won’t find better pricing anywhere else. See you soon!
-Andrae Bergeron
*Sources:
If you have not heard already, the Toyota Supra is back after two decades of absence in North America. Its arrival in mid-2019 has caused an uproar among major Supra fans and Toyota enthusiasts. Here at Mount Airy Toyota, we are so excited to tell you all about the 2020 Supra, what it means for long-time fans of the car, and how a new generation will be ready to fall in love this year with the Supra.
Witness the return of a legendary sports car this summer
The Toyota Supra is back for 2020. In terms of hype, it is similar to witnessing the end of Avengers or the final season of Game of Thrones; there are definitely cult followings and there are major fans out there who have awaited its return. After 20 years, this beloved sports car is back.
Revival does not even begin to cover it
The revival of this 1980s and early 1990s classic, two decades after it was discontinued, was unveiled at the 2019 Detroit Auto Show. Every Supra shares the same core fundamentals with a smooth inline six up front, rear-wheel drive, and a modern chassis. The 2020 Supra will feature the classic long-hood, low-riding, two-door design, and short-deck proportion, as well. But, in line with Toyota’s mission to deliver the purest expression of performance, the 2020 Supra will redefine sports cars just as it has time and time again.
Take a step back in time to appreciate the present
The 1993 Supra Turbo was praised for its acceleration, skid pad performance, and antilock brakes that set records at a 70 mph stopping distance. The 3.0-liter engine did not rank well with American consumers, however, and with the $39,900 price tag, Toyota only sold 2,901 cars.
In 1996, Toyota was required to re-engineer the Supra to include the OBD II systems, inflating the model’s base cost to $38,600. This made the ’93 Supra Turbo model soar to $50,400 in 1996. As a result, Toyota only sold 852 Supras in ’96, and at that time, had not reached the point of selling 10,000 Supras in the United States.
By 1998, while Toyota sales were beginning to recover, the Supra just wasn’t selling as expected. Buyers simply were not willing to pay what the Supra costed, despite its incredible performance and advanced powertrain. This led to the development of racing enthusiasts who became cult followers of the Supra, as they understood that the Supra Turbo’s 2JZ-GTE had enormous amounts of power and boost.
A true cinematic vehicle
For the younger generations who are not long-time fans of the Supra, they just might get all the hype if they have watched one of the biggest film franchises of the past ten years, where the car was featured and gained a new reputation among the millennial audience.
The timeline definitely did not stop in the year ’98 for the Toyota Supra. In the year 2000, the National Import Racing Associate director, Craig Lieberman, had modified a Supra Turbo to 600 horsepower and was showing it off at an imported car show. It was at this point that he was approached by a man who asked him to consult on a film about racing. This film was called Redline, and it featured a character named Officer Brian O’Connor, and an all-too-familiar plotline that we all recognize now about street racing and big-rig heists.
The film we’re talking about here had a name change, from Redline to The Fast and the Furious. Before the script hit filming, the producers had to change a main character’s vehicle from a Nissan 240SX to, yes, you guessed it, the Supra. This was because the producers needed to pull a character off of a truck and through a car’s sunroof in the movie’s climactic scene, thus requiring a car with a Targa top and the credibility as a power-driven performance car.
As the highest grossing film of 2001, and a classic series reaching millions and millions of fans, The Fast and the Furious was a landmark film for car culture and the racing scene across America. It was also because of the film that the Supra went from being unable to sell in ten years what the Corvette sold in one year, to a nine-second drag car capable of holding its line with major racing names.
The launch of the 2020 Toyota Supra
The Supra is finally back after 20 years, and the newest model is only being offered as an automatic and sporting a BMW engine. The top-end model has an inline-six twin-turbo engine producing 335hp, similar to numbers of the Supra that debuted in 1993. Will it deliver on the hype though? Let’s dive into it.
Zero to (almost) 100, real fast
If you are interested in power, then you will fall in love with the Toyota Supra. In its advertisements, the Supra reported 335 horsepower and 365-lb of torque. Needless to say, this car can really move. Then, Car and Driver gave it a run and revealed that it can hit 60 mph in only 3.8 seconds. Now that is fast.
This powerhouse is being co-developed with BMW and will share its architecture with the upcoming Z4, meaning the 3.0-liter turbocharged engine is shared with the Z4. It will boast a 3-liter, 6-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower, 365-lb-ft. of torque, and an 8-speed automatic transmission. This means going from 0-60 miles an hour in an estimated 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 155 with a curb weight of 3397 pounds. The engine is as far back and as low as possible, which optimizes the center of gravity for a 50:50 front/rear weight distribution—making your drive, no matter the speed, as smooth as possible.
Toyota’s approach to the design was to create the best driver’s car, full stop. Drivers in the Supra can control the throttle with millimeter precision. The Supra is extremely well positioned in the market with its manageable and impressive performance.
Toyota never sells on just one feature
Toyota understands that one of the main selling points of the original supra was the incredible engine and powertrain, but they also know that the rest of the car has to measure up to consumer expectations. That is why Toyota invested so much time into engineering the rest of the car just as carefully as the engine itself.
This is not to mention, too, that Toyota has definitely learned from its longstanding history and fan base with the Supra. If the car performed so well, followed by years of low sales, then temporarily forgotten, then Toyota will only build a successor that will be remembered and revered.
So let us fully focus on what the Mk.5 has to offer.
Styling
The first thing you will notice about the 2020 Supra is that it is truly a work of art. The science behind the design is just as impressive and is what really makes the car a masterpiece. The wide grille is designed to channel cool air directly to the turbocharged engine, which in turn, helps optimize performance.
The “double-bubble” roof adds space inside the vehicle, while also reducing aerodynamic drive outside. Intakes and vents are everywhere. And, as with any expectation for a sports car, the rear spoiler reduces body life and keeps the Supra planted at high speeds.
The wheelbase is 97.2 inches and the length is 172.5. Unlike previous Supras, the 2020 only seats two, with more than sufficient space for someone over 6ft. The cargo area, albeit narrow, can more than handle your weekend getaway luggage.
The 2020 Supra has already received great reception on the look and feel of the vehicle, as it remained true to its highly regarded lineage.
Control
Toyota provided a rigid chassis, adaptive suspension, and Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires to ensure that the Supra drives as good as it looks. Long turns will have you feeling what the car can do, plus you can steer with the extremely responsive throttle. Slide into Sport mode, turn off traction control, and you can really enjoy the Supra’s suspension tuning, steering feel, and body rigidity. With the tightness in the center of the vehicle, the car turns in quickly and provides a comforting sense of confidence at high speeds. Even with high winds and broken pavement, the rigid chassis delivers a sensational ride quality.
Safety
The Supra is equipped with its active differential and Brembo front brakes, ensuring that the driver has ultimate control over the vehicle. This new model will, of course, come decked out with LED headlights, a 6.5” infotainment screen, forward collision warning, automatic rain-sensing windshield wipers, and a sports mode.
Trim levels
The Supra will be available in three trim levels: 3.0, 3.0 Premium, and Launch Edition. The standard 3.0 trims include a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth connectivity, adaptive suspension, forward collision warning, launch control, and shift paddles. The 3.0 Premium trim upgrades the infotainment screen to an 8.8-inch touchscreen, navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, a 12-speaker sound system, wireless charging, a color head-up display, and heated, leather-upholstered seats.
The GR Supra Launch Edition will only be available to a lucky few. Why? Because the GR Supra Launch Edition is limited to only 1500 units. The Launch edition will include 19-inch, unique matte-black wheels, and a red leather interior, red mirror caps, and an individually numbered interior badge with Akio Toyoda’s signature. The Supra Launch edition is available in Renaissance Red 2.0, Nocturnal or Absolute Zero.
Fun fact: The very first globally produced all-new 2020 GR Supra was auctioned off for $2.1 million dollars this year. This all happened at the Barrett-Jackson Auction, where proceeds benefitted the American Heart Association and the Bob Woodruff Foundation, which aids injured veterans and their families. The buyer’s identity hasn’t been released yet, but we do know that the first Supra was flat gray with red mirror caps, black wheels, and had red upholstery. The winner’s car was signed by Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda on the engine bay, and received a racing suit, driving gloves, shoes, and the helmet Akio wore when he personally tested the Supra during its development.
Price
The base price for this vehicle is $45,000. The Launch edition has a starting MSRP of $55,250. The 3.0 Premium has a starting MSRP of $53,990. The 3.0 has a starting MSRP of $49,990.
Additional Specs At A Glance
- 365lb.–ft. of torque
- 3397 pounds, total
- 155 mph top speed
- 24 city mpg
- 31 highway mpg
The Supra and Mount Airy Toyota
The 2020 Supra has had car fanatics awaiting its return for many years, and 2019 has unveiled the iconic sports car once and for all. With the incoming influx of driving impressions and personal reviews, it will be exciting to see how this light, agile, fun, and overall reasonable sports car will deliver to consumers. Mount Airy Toyota is excited to recommend the Supra to any eager sports car fan, and with the starting price at less than $50,000, you’re definitely getting the bang for your buck!
Electric vehicles are growing in demand each year, and creating more and more buzz as the technology continues to become better and more efficient. At Mount Airy Toyota, we’re interested not only in the overall automotive shift away from fossil fuels, but also in what that means for our dealership, our city, and way of life in Mount Airy. We wanted to know more about where Toyota fits into the electric vehicle market, when we might be seeing a full electric car release from Toyota, and what it means for Mount Airy Toyota in the future.
Electric cars are the future; it’s a statement we have heard before, that we have seen come into reality, and seems to become more and more standard, albeit at a slow pace, every year. With every global climate report delivering the same message about limited fossil fuels and negative climate impact, electric cars are gaining more traction and popularity.
If you’re 35 or younger, it’s inevitable that you will be driving an electric car in your lifetime. The face of the automotive industry is rapidly producing new technologies to fill the needs of an electric driven economy.
What is an electric vehicle?
Electric vehicles are battery charged, and run at least partially on electricity. There are a variety of options to consider when you think about electric cars. Electric vehicles can range from plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, fuel-cell electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles that use plug-in rechargeable batteries, and there are pure electric vehicles.
How do they work?
Instead of vehicles running on gasoline like in internal combustion engine vehicles, electric vehicles run either partially or completely on electricity stored in a battery. Thus, electric vehicles don’t produce tailpipe pollution. They also minimize wasted energy by turning the car off when stopped and by charging the battery when braking. Electric vehicles are more energy- efficient than gasoline or diesel powered engines, which explains why they are in such high demand.
Are electric vehicles clean?
Producing electricity isn’t necessarily clean; electricity can produce heat-trapping gases, pollution at the source of the electricity generation, or in the extraction of fossil fuels. It’s definitely worth noting though that battery electric cars charged off of the dirtiest coal grid still produce lower pollution than their gasoline-powered counterparts. If electric vehicles are charged by wind or solar energy sources, they are virtually emission free!
How do they charge?
As mentioned before, they can charge when braking as you drive, but mainly they are charged at home. With a 240-volt outlet (a power similar to what it takes to run clothes in the dryer), most electric vehicles can charge fully overnight. Once fully charged, electric vehicles can typically drive between 70 to 100 miles per day (which is within the average range of what most Americans drive daily). Fast-charging stations can provide 60 to 80 miles of range for every 20 minutes of charging.
Battery technologies will change, as we realize things such as the fact silicon batteries provide 30% more range, and as we find less expensive batteries.
Battery technology is progressing so quickly, and it’s only going to get better. Between 2008 and 2014, the price of batteries dropped more than 70 percent. The development of larger and more powerful batteries means that batteries will also require larger charging systems and longer time requirements.
Manufacturers are now willing to put the money forward to develop more electric vehicles. But, the main issue manufacturers face is the cost-curve of having electric vehicles more competitive in the market place, versus demand actually pulling them out of the manufacturers. EV’s are less than 2% of vehicle sales in America. In 2017, electric cars reached a global sales record with 1 million cars sold.
What or who do you think of when you hear about electric vehicles?
Elon Musk probably comes to mind, and for good reason. As recently as January 2019, the American-made company, Tesla, released their goal to have 400,000 new electric vehicles on the road.
In March 2016, the Tesla Model 3 was released, and has, since then, reigned as the electric car to turn the electric vehicle market mainstream. Starting at $35,000, the Tesla Model 3 is reasonably affordable, and comes in with 220 miles of range and all the equipment to drive autonomously. With software updates that increase the mileage and efficiency of the vehicle without taking a trip to the dealership, the Model 3 has ruled in the electric vehicle domain, and we can see why.
Tesla has put more electric cars on the road than any other company, but across the automotive industry, everyone has electric cars in the works for the coming years.
What are the hurdles automotive industries are facing with electric vehicles?
As battery-electric vehicles and hybrids become more popular, infrastructure everywhere will have to adapt. Beyond city hubs in California, and select other cities, the reality is that of fall 2018, there were an estimated 22,000 public charging stations between the US and Canada. Therefore, before most consumers can consider, or much less, commit to an electric car, they would have to consider the distances they want to drive in their electric vehicle, and if there are charging stations within reasonable distances.
Of course, automotive manufacturers have to be concerned about the charging stations as well. Automakers can either build their own charging networks or rely on third-party networks. Tesla has 1,344 Supercharger stations worldwide, with around 580 of those in the US. While they have discussed the possibility of opening their network to other automakers, the stations only currently serves Tesla. Volkswagen plans to install 2,800 charging stations in 17 US cities by June 2019. Other automakers rely on third-party companies, which can be cheaper, but more uncertain with a lack of consistency for coverage.
For example, Electrify America is installing charging stations at more than 100 Walmarts in 34 states. ChargePoint is increasing their charging stations 50-fold by 2025, building up from 53,000 charging stations.
Building electric charging stations can be a bureaucratic situation with lots of red tape in the way, whether that’s finding real estate to build the station, or to negotiate with local utility companies. But the demand for charging stations is increasing, as more apartment and condo complexes are providing charging opportunities, and bus and trucking industries are also shifting towards electric power.
- Fun fact: Just as a comparison, there are about seven times more gas stations than charging stations in the US and Canada—about 168,000!
What are the cons of owning or leasing an electric vehicle?
It is not a surprise to the average American that electric vehicles are more expensive than the average car. The average price of an electric vehicle is about $30,000-$35000. But, the savings in gasoline can average about $1400 on gas, costing about $540 a year to charge an electric car, in comparison. To break even and offset the fuel savings, you would have to keep the car for around 11 years, which is actually the average time that most US drivers keep a car before trading in or selling.
What are the pros?
Although there is not a lot of data on what the exact savings are on electric car maintenance, there is a lesser chance of breaking down, the service packages are cheaper, and the vehicles themselves are much better than gasoline alternatives at converting energy to movement from a standing start. They don’t require oil changes or experience as much wear and tear on the brakes. Electric and hybrid vehicles can also enjoy discounts of up to 10% on car insurance, because they tend to be safer and less likely to break down. Some electric vehicles also receive tax breaks!
How do they drive?
For automotive enthusiasts, there’s something about the control over the vehicle, the roar of the engine, the power behind the wheel… and it’s enough to never consider making the switch to an electric vehicle. Electric vehicles do lack manual shifting, they are extremely quiet, and of course, there won’t really be a reason to stop at a gas station unless you’re needing snacks.
Any electric car you sit behind the wheel of is a totally different drive than any other car. They are quiet, smooth, and refined. They are high-quality and are equipped with the latest technology.
Why has Toyota not been seen in the electric car market yet?
Toyota does not offer any full-electric vehicle in the United States. Moreover, Toyota has almost conspicuously not been producing or teasing any line-up of full battery-electric cars to come, and the reason might surprise you. Basically, it comes down to Toyota believing that hybrids are a better option between internal-combustion vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell-vehicles.
There is a serious question about the range and capability of the electric car and what redesigns it will have to face in order to get adopted by the average American. Those challenges are being addressed with better batteries, larger range capabilities, and the implementation of charging stations.
In the mean time, Toyota has an astounding line up of hybrid options, and they’re available at Mount Airy Toyota. Ranging from full-size sedans to sporty crossovers, these Toyota vehicles are all incredibly fuel efficient, cool, and provide ample battery capacity.
$22,950 starting msrp
53/52 est. mpg
$27,770 starting msrp
54/50 est. mpg
$21,530 starting msrp
48/43 mpg
$27,350 starting msrp
54/133 est. mpg
$28,250 starting msrp
51/53 est. mpg
$36,550 starting msrp
43/44 est. mpg
$27,700 starting msrp
41/38 est. mpg
$37.320 starting msrp
30/28 est. mpg
What’s to come for Toyota?
Currently, Toyota is able to produce enough batteries for 28,000 electric vehicles each year, which equates to 1.5 million hybrid cars. The amount of gas-electric hybrid cars Toyota sells currently impacts the environment more positively than it would by selling far fewer electric vehicles due to the market.
Toyota has been more interested in hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles, but as the market slowly evolves in the U.S., Toyota is opening some of its patents to help hybrid car production. In total, Toyota has sold more than 13 million hybrids, globally dominating more than 80% of the market for hybrid vehicles.
Mount Airy Toyota: The Future is Here
Due to economic feasibility, battery efficiency, and the increase of Americans finding fossil fuel alternatives, electric cars are here to stay. Mount Airy Toyota has some of the leading hybrid vehicles on our lot. If you have never driven an electric vehicle before, we encourage you to come test drive and experience the difference. Give us a call today at (336) 786-2118, visit us online at mountairytoyota.com, or stop by and see us at 508 N Andy Griffith Parkway in Mount Airy, North Carolina.
- Learn more: Charlotte Talks: WFAE with Mike Collins
If you’re interested in hearing more about this topic, check out the local broadcast, Charlotte Talks on WFAE with Mike Collins, where last month they discussed the future of electric cars with Brian Jenkins, Ezra Dyer, and Matt DeLorenzo.
Mount Airy Toyota is pleased to announce our participation with local community partners in upcoming fundraiser events around the Charlotte and Mount Airy regions. Check out the golf fundraisers that we are playing in and learn more about what special programs we are supporting around our community.
11th Annual Pfc. Adam Lee Marion Memorial Golf Tournament
On Thursday, April 25th, Mount Airy Toyota is participating in the 11th Annual Pfc. Adam Lee Marion Memorial Golf Tournament. This golf tournament has been held eleven years in a row in honor of Private First Class Adam Lee Marion.
Private First Class Adam Lee Marion was killed in Iraq on April 28, 2008 while serving in the military. Adam was 26 years old when a rocket attack outside of Sadr City, Iraq claimed his life. He was deployed as part of a North Carolina National Guard unit tasked with performing route-clearance missions.
Family friends of the Marion’s, John Lawson and Ralph Holt organized the golf benefit in Adam Marion’s names and had the idea to put the proceeds towards supporting the Children’s Center. The original mission was to raise about $10,000 a year for the center; this amount has gone above and beyond their expectations, growing each year.
4th Annual Destiny Lives On Golf Tournament
On Friday, May 10th, you can find us out at the Cramer Mountain Club participating in the 4th Annual Destiny Lives On Golf Tournament.
This event includes a day of golf (the tournament will be a Captain’s Choice format), followed by lunch and an awards ceremony with prizes and raffles.
The proceeds from the tournament go towards the Destiny Lives On Foundation. The tournament itself aims to honor and support families that have given or received an organ donation, and supports efforts to promote and educate people about the importance of organ donation.
Space to participate is limited, and we recommend that you register early to guarantee your spot. It costs $520 per foursome team, and this includes green fees, cart, swag bag, breakfast/lunch/beverages, and 4 mulligan packets per team. Cash prizes are awarded to the winning team. Player registration opens April 10th, 2019.
You can mail a donation or a sponsor payment to:
Destiny Lives On Foundation
4033 Avery Pl.
Gastonia, NC 28056
Or if you’re interested in learning more about the event or have any questions, you can contact Kelly Stafford at (704) 913-4270 or at destinyliveson@hotmail.com. Check out their website at https://destinyliveson.org/.
Spring Golf Classic 2019 Matthews Chamber of Commerce
The Chamber hosts a golf tournament each year as a way for members and guests to promote their businesses, get to know their peers, raise money for the Chamber, and donate funds to a designated local non-profit. The title sponsor this year is Harris Teeter.
The Matthew Chamber Golf Classic is on Tuesday, May 14th at the Pine Lake Country Club at 5504 Lebanon Road, Mint Hill, NC 28227. The check-in begins at 11:00am, with a shotgun tee-off at 12:00pm. Lunch, dinner, beverages, and cart fee are all included. There will be lots of fun, giveaways, raffles, contests, and prizes, and dinner following the tournament. The event ends at 7:00pm.
This year, the non-profit receiving the funds from the tournament is Bright Blessings. Bright Blessings serves over 13,000 children every year in partnerships with local school systems and dozens of shelters, housing facilities and community support agencies across a five-county area. The mission of Bright Blessings is to bring joy, care, and hope to homeless and impoverished children by mobilizing volunteers of all ages. You can learn more about Bright Blessings on their website at: https://www.brightblessingsusa.org/
Registration is now open; you can click here to register. Each player receives 18 holes of golf, golf cart, range balls, beverages, lunch from Chic-fil-A, and dinner from Beantown Tavern. The $20 Mulligan package is optional.
- Individual Player: $100 (fun golf attire encouraged!)
- Foursome: $400
You can also take part in the sponsor opportunities:
- Hole/Tee Sponsor: $150
- Putting Green Sponsor: $500
- Driving Range Sponsor: $250
- Scorecard Sponsor: $250
- Dinner/Awards Presentation: $20
If you are interested in learning more about any of these upcoming events around the Charlotte area, whether you want to donate, participate, or attend, feel free to come by Mount Airy Toyota and we would be happy to share more information. We hope to see you out at some of these events in April and May, and we encourage you to give back to your greater Charlotte community this spring!
Vehicles of the Future: What Toyota’s Bringing to Mount Airy Toyota in 2019
Here at Mount Airy Toyota, 2019 has been the year of delivering more reliable, interesting, and fun vehicles than ever before. We are more than excited over the latest technology, delivery, and design of Toyota’s innovative vehicles. With many of these new releases on the lot, there has never been a better time to visit Mount Airy Toyota to check out and test-drive your future vehicle. Speaking of future vehicles, you might remember the dream sports car of the 80’s—but the wait is over. Toyota’s design efforts have all lead up to the long anticipated return of the 2020 Supra in the U.S. this year.
Check out some of Toyota’s latest and greatest advances, and learn about how Toyota is changing the face of dealerships like our own Mount Airy Toyota dealership, as well as, the American motor economy.
The 2019 Toyota Corolla: Proof that you can have it all
The Corolla is a reliable classic that comes in a sedan or hatchback, and has been revamped for 2019. Not only does it deliver a modern look and a composed ride, it also comes available with a rev-matching manual transmission. Check out some of the top new features worth noting about the 2019 Toyota Corolla.
New TNGA Suspension
The Toyota New Global Architecture, or TNGA is a modular unibody design found under a lot of Toyota’s new cars and SUVS. With the ability to easily accommodate different size vehicles and front, rear, and all-wheel drive powertrains, this suspension platform delivers. On the 2019 Corolla, the TNGA is configured with front wheel drive, with struts under the nose of the vehicle, and the multi-link independent suspension that supports the tail.
The Future is Here with TNGA:
According to Toyota, the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) will build better-than-ever vehicles on common platforms with common parts, making the manufacturing plants more flexible and responsible to the marketplace, and leading to overall cost savings that can be reinvested into future technologies at Toyota.
Quick facts on the TNGA:
- The first TNGA-inspired vehicle assembled in North America was the 2018 Camry at Toyota Motor Manufacturing in Kentucky.
- Toyota’s first North American manufacturing plant built with TNGA capabilities started production in 2019 at Toyota Motor Manufacturing de Guanajuato.
- By 2020, approximately half of all new Toyota vehicles worldwide will benefit from TNGA.
With the 2019 Corolla, the TNGA makes the convention powertrain of the Corolla more powerful, fuel efficient, and reduces the overall weight of the vehicle from the adoption of materials like high strength steel and aluminum.
Dynamic Shift-CVT
The CVTs, or continuously variable transmissions, are paired with the new suspension system to really deliver a thrill of a ride. This means that the CVT has the advantage of being more fuel efficient, and making you feel more connected to drive. So if you are at an intersection and the light turns green, as your foot moves from the brake to the gas pedal, the fixed first gear will engage. This gives the engine a more direct connection to the front-drive wheels, making the pedal feel more responsive while improving acceleration and drivetrain durability.
Refreshed Exterior Design
From modern LED headlights, a sleek grille, and 16-inch steel wheels, the distinctive design of the Corolla is ready to go in any situation.
Choose joy this 2019
While there are so many great sedans on the market, the 2019 Toyota Yaris is a highly competitive choice. Why not choose a driving experience that always delivers joy?
Efficient, responsive performance
The handling of this Yaris sedan is extremely responsive and fun, and truly delivers on its drivability. Whether you are cruising through the city, travelling on the highway, or taking a joy ride, the 1.5-liter engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission happily provides efficient performance with tons of pep. You will be getting an incredible 40-MPG on the highway and 32 MPT in the city.
The MacPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension offers a smooth ride, and agile handling for an exciting ride. When you are ready for a sportier trip, the Yaris lets you opt in to the 6-speed automatic Sport Mode with just the flip of a switch.
Smart, stylish, and sporty
Technology is more important than ever, and we expect seamless, integrated, and accessible features in our vehicles. The 2019 Toyota Yaris comes standard with a 7-in. touch-screen multimedia system. You can interact directly with the screen, use the control knob between the front seats, or speak to the system which features voice recognition and Bluetooth.
The LE and XLE trims come standard with the Smart Key System, allowing you to lock and unlock your doors just by touching the handle, alongside the Push Button Start to engage the ignition just with the key fob close-by in your pocket or bag.
Advanced technology
One of the coolest features on the 2019 Yaris is the rain-sensing windshield wiper blades. These come standard on the Yaris XLE; the windshield wipers automatically adjust to match the intensity of the rain and speed of the car.
Automatic LED headlights not only shine brighter, but also use less energy. You will be able to let the Yaris do the thinking, meaning turning the headlights to auto will save you the time of remembering to turn off and on your headlights.
When it comes to safety, the 2019 Yaris comes standard with the Low-Speed Pre-Collision System, which scans the road for potential collisions, and if it detects a potential frontal collision, the vehicle provides an audio/visual alert and braking assistance is automatically activated.
Move forward with clean power in 2019
The 2019 Toyota Mirai is a hydrogen-fueled, zero-emissions vehicle, and the first fuel-cell vehicle for sale. This vehicle runs solely on hydrogen and only emits water. You will feel better as a driver knowing you’re making life better for the environment and those around you. Here are five more reasons you should love the direction the Mirai takes Toyota:
1. Aspirational, aerodynamic design
Mirai: In Japanese, the word “mirai” means “future.” The Toyota Mirai is definitely the future of eco-friendly, efficient vehicles. The interior of the vehicle is functional, practical, and comfortable. The speedometer and driving displays are further up on the dash, keeping your eyes on the critical vehicle functions instead. The Mirai also seats four.
2. Refueling will take no time at all
Refueling the Mirai only takes 5 minutes! What is even more incredible is that the range of one tank is around 300 miles. Right now, fuel is completely included for the first three years of ownership.
3. Your drive will not disappoint
This car is quiet, subdued, and provides a nicely tuned suspension for responsive steering. While perhaps not for the power enthusiast, the Mirai can keep up with the other cars on the highway. It can reach 60 MPH in 9.4 seconds and 80 MPH in a quarter-mile, and stop from 70 MPH in 194 feet. This is also impressive considering that it delivers 152 horsepower and weights less than two tons.
4. From California to across the world
Currently, the Mirai is only sold or leased in California, where they have the infrastructure for hydrogen fueling. In 2018, there were only 35 public hydrogen-fueling stations in the United States, all of which were located in California. California announced their plan to boost this number by 50% by the end of 2019. So while you cannot get this vehicle in Mount Airy, it is still exciting to see the future of eco-friendly vehicles getting better and better each year in the U.S.
5. A milestone in vehicle development
After 23 years of development and 5,680 patents, Toyota has invested a great deal into the Mirai and the future of fuel cell vehicles. The Toyota Mirai comes with an eight-year powertrain or 100,000 mile warranty. This also explains the price tag of such an innovative vehicle, starting with a base price of $58,325.
Witness the return of a legendary sports car this summer
The Toyota Supra is back.
The revival of this 1980s and early 1990s classic, two decades after it was discontinued, was unveiled at the 2019 Detroit auto show. It will feature the classic long-hood, sleek, low-riding, two-door design, and short-deck proportion.
Younger generations might be excited if they are fans of the Fast and Furious franchise, where the car was featured and gained a new reputation among the millennial audience.
This powerhouse is being co-developed with BMW and will share its architecture with the upcoming Z4. This means the 3.0-liter turbocharged engine is shared with the Z4. It will boast a 3-liter, 6-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower, 365-lb-ft of torque, and an 8-speed automatic transmission. This means going from 0-60 miles per hour in an estimated 4.1 seconds, and a top speed of 155 with a curb weight of 3397 pounds. And this new model will, of course, come decked out with LED headlights, a 6.5” infotainment screen, forward-collision warning, automatic rain-sensing windshield wipers, and a sports mode.
The Supra will be available in three trim levels: 3.0, 3.0 Premium, and the Launch Edition, which will only be made available in 1,500 units. The base price for this vehicle is $45,000; the 3.0 starts at $50,920, and the Launch Edition will start at $55,520. The higher trims up the infotainment screen to 8.8-inches, heated seats, and a 12-speaker JBL audio system. The Launch edition will include 19-inch wheels, and a red leather interior. The Supra plans to enter the market in mid-2019.
Toyota: Supporting the American Economy
Recently, Toyota announced its plan to invest an additional $3 billion in U.S. manufacturing plants, bolstering its North American production presence.
According to USA Today, “…the company specific plans to invest $749 million and hire 568 new workers at existing operations in Alabama, Kentucky, Missouri, Tennessee an West Virginia. That includes adding the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Lexus E3 300H hybrid to its sprawling factory in Georgetown, Kentucky.”
Toyota vehicles have always been some of America’s favorite cars, and knowing that you are supporting the American economy both nationwide from manufacturing and locally from supporting local dealerships, while reaping the benefits of Japanese design, makes buying Toyota all the better. In fact, did you know that Americans buy more Toyotas than in Japan? Toyota’s reach is pretty incredible!
Innovation, Technology and Luxury: All Available at Mount Airy Toyota
Whether you are interested in checking out one of the vehicles we talked about, are eager to chat with like-minded enthusiasts about the upcoming release of the Supra, or are searching for new 2019 Toyota cars, trucks, and SUVS for sale in the Mount Airy area, then look no further! Mount Airy Toyota offers a large selection of new Toyota models in Mount Airy. Our New Vehicle Inventory features all of the latest Toyota models, and allows you to browse our inventory online to see what we have in stock.
If you find a Toyota vehicle that interests you, contact us to schedule a test drive or learn more about its features. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is here to assist you and help to answer any questions you might have. Visit Mount Airy Toyota today to experience our awe-inspiring lineup of new Toyota vehicles for sale in Mount
Graduations from college are right around the corner, and that means gifts! And did someone say cold hard cash? How about a new car? Luckily, Mount Airy Toyota has managed a way to help you hang on to some of your savings this graduation season.
Just how do we plan to save you money? Rebates, that’s how. Southeast Toyota Finance has rolled out a College Graduate Rebate program for recent or upcoming graduates. That means money off your next purchase of a Toyota—$500 off, to be precise!
Toyota knows the pressures for recent college grads: find a new job, think about budgeting, rent an apartment, even possibly move to a new city. So what better way to celebrate the next stage in a graduate’s life than to put oneself behind the wheel of a new car, and at an affordable price?
Americans have always loved their cars because we see them as indicators for successes in life. Life events like a new job, new marriage, new children, usually help us see the need for a new car. Or the way we celebrate a milestone is to buy ourselves a new car, as a way of saying “it’s a whole new me!” Toyota believes in celebrating those moments with you, especially for college grads who are just starting their own journey in life.
So, if in the past two years you’ve recently graduated from an accredited four-year college or university—or if you will graduate in the next six months!—there’s a $500 rebate with your name on it. What about if you’re in an accredited two-year college or registered nursing degree program; or you are enrolled in (or a recent graduate of) graduate school? Yep, there is definitely a $500 rebate awaiting you. We want to celebrate all diplomas and degrees, because we believe in the value of an education as much as you do!
In addition to that $500 rebate, you may have little to no down payment due at purchase, or there may be no security deposit owed when you sign a lease. And what’s more, monthly payments may be deferred up to three months for retail installment loans, so you can drive off the lot today and think about your first car payment a good 90 days later. And we are committed to getting you into the lowest interest rate financing we can find for you. And to top it all off, we offer ToyotaCare on all our vehicles, which means no cost maintenance in the first two years or 25,000 miles of your car’s life.
So come on in to Mount Airy Toyota today, and let’s get started on finding the best Toyota that suits you. And that $500 rebate? Yeah, that’s yours too. Think broadly. Dream big. Invest in a Toyota.
