Toyota Reinforces Commitment to Arizona Proving Grounds with New Investment Over $50 Million
Toyota Reinforces Commitment to Arizona Proving Grounds
Toyota Motor North America has made headlines with its recent declaration to invest more than $50 million into the enhancement of the Arizona Proving Grounds. This investment aims to expand the facilities and features available to improve vehicle testing and development, showcasing Toyota's dedication to innovation and excellence in the automotive industry.
The newly allocated funds will facilitate the construction of a 5.5-mile oval track, an off-road park, and various other driving and handling surfaces. These advancements are not merely about improving testing facilities; they underscore Toyota's strategy to create a state-of-the-art resource for automotive development in the region. The majority of these new builds are expected to be completed by the end of this year, significantly elevating the capacity for vehicle and technology testing.
Stefan Young, Vice President of Research and Development at Toyota, emphasized the importance of this investment, stating, "The new updates make Arizona a more attractive location for companies to test new vehicle capabilities, including those in our own North American lineup." This commitment is reflective of Toyota's strategic focus on harnessing advanced analytics and innovative technologies to ensure the highest quality in its vehicles.
Overview of Development Projects
The investment encompasses seven distinct projects aimed at reinforcing the Proving Grounds' capabilities. Notable projects include:
1. Common Use Spaces - Already completed, this facility adheres to ISO 2021 standards for sound testing and ensures vehicles meet global noise regulations.
2. 5.5-mile Oval Track - Completed and functional, this track will be utilized for various tests, including endurance and high-speed bursts.
3. 1.5-mile Handling Course - Also completed, it's tailored for vehicle handling assessments and tire evaluations under different conditions.
4. A Circuit Bypass (1.3 miles) - Completed and ready for tests focused on downhill and straight-line performance.
5. North Straight (1.7 miles) - Scheduled to be finalized by Autumn 2025 for further performance evaluations.
6. Off-Road Park - Set to complete by Autumn 2025, this facility will cater to testing the off-road capabilities of trucks.
7. Repavement of VDA (17 acres) - Expected to be concluded in 2026, ensuring multiple versatile testing surfaces.
The Arizona Proving Grounds, officially referred to as the Arizona Mobility Testing Center (AMTC), has been serving the automotive industry since 2021 and remains a vital resource as it offers facilities for external organizations for vehicle testing. Since its inception, it has welcomed 37 different organizations, utilizing approximately 286 test vehicles and logging an impressive 203,400 hours of testing activities.
Boosting Economic Growth
Governor Katie Hobbs of Arizona expressed gratitude towards Toyota, recognizing the investment's potential to spur economic growth in the state. She remarked, "Time and again, Arizona demonstrates why businesses relocate, stay, and invest in our state. We appreciate Toyota's efforts in bringing innovation and opportunities to Arizona. This new investment will position us at the forefront of automotive ingenuity."
Leo Biasiucci, President of the Arizona House of Representatives’ Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, added, "I appreciate Toyota’s investment in Wittmann, Arizona and their commitment to innovation. As chairman of the committee, I am pleased that Toyota has chosen Arizona as its home base."
A Legacy of Innovation
The Arizona Proving Grounds, located in the Sonoran Desert and about 60 miles northwest of Phoenix, spans approximately 11,650 acres. It features 77 miles of testing surfaces, including 60 miles of paved roads and over 50 miles of off-road terrains. Since its establishment in 1993, this facility has played a crucial role in testing over 50 Toyota and Lexus vehicles intended for the American market.
Toyota has been intertwined with North America’s cultural fabric for over 70 years and is committed to advancing sustainable mobility through the Toyota and Lexus brands, supported by over 1,800 dealerships. It employs 64,000 people in North America who contribute significantly to design, engineering, and manufacturing processes, with nearly 49 million vehicles produced in its 14 manufacturing facilities.
As part of their vision, Toyota plans to launch a battery manufacturing plant in North Carolina in 2025 focused on electric vehicles, reflecting their commitment to sustainability. Ultimately, Toyota's investment in Arizona not only strengthens its test facility but also fosters innovation that will benefit the automotive sector at large.
In conclusion, Toyota's commitment to the Arizona Proving Grounds is a testament to the company's strategic focus on innovation, sustainable practices, and community support. This investment will undoubtedly pave the way for future advancements in automotive technology, ensuring Toyota remains a leader in the industry.