Toyota launches Crown special editions for 55th anniversary

Crown Athlete

 

Crown Hybrid

Crown Royal Saloon

Toyota has launched special editions, called "Anniversary Edition", of Crown Athlete, Crown hybrid and Crown Royal Saloon for the 55th anniversary of the series.

The special edition models will come with special interior decorations, leather front seats with heating and ventilation, a smart Key coloured with colours depending on the series, a special scuff and door mirrors with memory function among others. The Royal Saloon will also get 17" alloy wheels.

Further details about the "Anniversary Edition" models can found here (Japanese context).

Honda announces new plug-in vehicle testing program

Honda has already announced a testing program in the US and now, it's time for Japan with Saitama Prefecture. Honda will test its next-generation personal mobility products, including EVs, PHVs (next-gen Accord, aka Inspire, will be the first model to get a PHV version - earlier post), electric scooters and electric carts. Solar-powered charging stations will also be tested.

In March 2009, Honda and Saitama Prefecture concluded an agreement to collaborate on environmental issues. Based on this agreement, Honda will start an Electric Vehicle Testing Program in the cities of Saitama, Kumagaya and Chichibu. Honda is also considering the possibility of conducting a similar program in China.

Lexus trademarks ES 300h name - new hybrid on its way

Car and Driver has came across with an interesting info. Lexus has trademarked the name ES 300h, which as you can easily guess, it's going to be a hybrid model. It's still unclear whether the ES 300h will be the second ES model, along with the existing ES 350, or it will be the next-gen ES arriving in a couple of years time.

Toyota is already developing the next JDM Camry, which will be available as a hybrid (earlier post) only, and my guess is that the new ES will be based on it.