News Summary
Toyota is investing $50 million in its Arizona Proving Grounds, enhancing vehicle testing capabilities with a new 5.5-mile oval track and off-road park. This expansion, anticipated to be completed by year’s end, solidifies the site’s role in R&D for advanced vehicle technologies and safety features. Governor Katie Hobbs commended Toyota’s commitment to innovation in Arizona, especially as other companies reduce their testing facilities. This initiative underscores the automotive sector’s growth and the significance of rigorous testing for future vehicle performance.
Arizona
Toyota has initiated a $50 million expansion project at its Arizona Proving Grounds, located near Wittman. The investment will fund seven different projects designed to enhance the vehicle testing capabilities of the site, thereby bolstering Toyota’s research and development efforts for its lineup of vehicles.
Among the key features of this expansion is the construction of a new 5.5-mile oval track and an off-road park. These enhancements will provide additional surfaces for rigorous testing of ride and handling capabilities across various terrains. This initiative is expected to significantly improve Toyota’s ability to develop and refine advanced vehicle technologies.
Construction for this major enhancement is anticipated to be largely completed by the end of this year, with plans for further expansions already in the pipeline. The Arizona Mobility Test Center at Toyota Arizona Proving Grounds has been a pivotal site for the company since its establishment in 1993. During this time, the facility has been responsible for testing over 50 Toyota and Lexus vehicles specifically designed for the North American market.
Stefan Young, Vice President at Toyota Motor North America’s Research and Development Division, highlighted the crucial role this facility plays in the development of new vehicle capabilities, particularly in the realm of advanced driver assistance technologies. The upgrades being made to the Proving Grounds are expected to enhance functionality and contribute to the overall advancement of automotive safety and technology.
Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs praised Toyota for its commitment to driving innovation and economic growth within the state. She noted that the investment not only reflects the company’s trust in Arizona’s business environment but also emphasizes the state’s attractiveness as a destination for businesses within the automotive sector.
It is important to note that while Toyota is expanding its testing facilities, General Motors and Stellantis have recently closed their legacy testing facilities in Arizona. In a strategic move, Stellantis has shifted its testing operations to Toyota’s facility, further highlighting the significance of the Arizona Proving Grounds as a central hub for automotive research and development.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, investments such as this by Toyota are essential. They reflect the ongoing commitment of manufacturers to enhance vehicle performance and safety through rigorous testing and technological advancement. The Arizona Proving Grounds stands not only as a testament to Toyota’s long-standing presence in the state but also as a critical asset for future innovations in the automotive sector.
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