Toyota introduces the latest national car of Thailand “ALL-NEW HILUX CHAMP” pickup truck

Mr. Noriaki Yamashita, President of Toyota Motor Thailand Company Limited, Dr. Jurachart Jongusuk, Regional Chief Engineer of Toyota Daihatsu Engineering and Manufacturing Company Limited and the Chief Engineer of Toyota Hilux Champ, Mr. Suphakorn Rattanawaraha, Executive Vice President of Toyota Motor Thailand Company Limited, and Ms. Chuenkamol Dapparungsi, President of Toyota Leasing (Thailand), jointly hosted the press conference to launch the All-New Hilux Champ. The model is expected to become the national car in Thai people’s heart as it offers mobility solutions with boundless customization possibilities for both private and commercial uses to help make the new opportunities begin. The event was held at Toyota Alive on November 27th, 2023.

Mr. Noriaki Yamashita, President of Toyota Motor Thailand stated that “For Chairman Akio Toyoda, IMV remains one of his fondest memories of his career. Also, he loves Thailand and Thailand is truly “the land of smiles” and the warmth and kindness of its people truly inspired him and me as well. Moreover, we realized IMV project formulated a close bond between Thai people and Toyota. That is why we can say Thank you, Arigato, Khob Khun Krap. to each other.”

Mr. Noriaki Yamashita, touched upon the success of the IMV project that “Since the launch of the first generation of IMV in 2004, we delivered 2.7M units to Thai customers. We believe many customers had the good experience and memories with our IMV. IMVs with "Conversion and Customization created their own stories following their unique lifestyle. And they became their "beloved car" and created their "memorable story".”

On top of domestic sales, we have exported over 4 million IMVs to over 120 countries all over the world. Together with high local contents, IMV contributed to economic growth of Thailand and created jobs. I truly believe that it was realized through trust in IMV and Toyota from Thai customers together with the support from the Thai government. So, IMV was called "The National Car of Thailand". And it created the relation between Thai people and Toyota that allowed us to express our appreciation to each other.” Mr. Yamashita expressed his gratitude to the customers and the appreciation to the Thai government. 

“Furthermore, in every stage of development, we investigated whether our vehicle could truly bring happiness to Thai customers. That is why our IMV0 team spent a lot of time in the field together with dealers to observe the lifestyle and needs of our potential customers. Mr. Yamashita stated.

When we started the IMV0 project, Chairman Akio Toyoda said that "This project is not just “new model introduction”, but it is the project to make our future better and brighter together with Thai people. With these words, we developed IMV0 backing to the origin of IMV once again. So, we named it as Hilux “Champ” to express our true thought "Back to IMV Origin.”

After Mr. Toyoda showed IMV0 concept last year, IMV0 ran in Buriram 25h endurance race as a pace car and was revealed in Indonesia and Philippines, then shown in Japan Mobility Show in the beginning of this month. Thankfully, there are plenty of positive feedback as the vehicle could create a future. So, we are feeling big expectations from our customers. Furthermore, we gained collaborations from many local body builders who are also attending today’s event. Toyota and our body builders aimed to develop various conversion cars together since the development stage.”

“Our ultimate wish is that Hilux Champ and Hilux Revo would be number one in the hearts of our customers and vehicles that bring smiles and happiness to Thai people more and more. As you may know, pickup market this year has declined significantly. We would like to stimulate the pickup market with Hilux Champ together with Thai people. Again, Hilux Champ was developed to show our determination to convey our token of appreciation to all Thai people as the National Car of Thailand. And we would like to create the great future together with our Thai customers. So, we’d like to keep the relation between Thai people and Toyota that allowed to express their appreciation to each other.” Mr. Yamashita concluded.

Dr. Jurachart Jongusuk, Regional Chief Engineer of Toyota Daihatsu Engineering and Manufacturing Company Limited mentioned the development of “ALL-NEW HILUX CHAMP that, “We conducted the field work visit with approximately 130 IMV0 customers, 10 car modification companies, and modified parts manufacturers in order to gain better understandings about the nature of use and customer needs. The study found out that compared with the HILUX B-cab, which is a successful model that has been accepted for a long time. Customers who have used the HILUX B-cab, most of them focus on heavy loading use with various convenience functions including the larger engine size suitable for driving long distances. Therefore, ALL-NEW HILUX CHAMP under the project IMV 0 Concept “Innovative International Multi-Purpose Vehicle Zero” has been developed alongside its design to be different by focusing on understanding of usage and the needs of customers. The focus will be on flatbed pickup trucks that is suitable for light loads and easier modification to match the nature of use customer's business and for installing additional accessories for use in leisure activities as well.

The outstanding features of the ALL-NEW HILUX CHAMP include:
1. Affordable Price: an easily affordable price that is cheaper than the price of a general single-cab pickup truck and suitable for customers with basic income to start a business.
2. Business – Focused covering all forms of business with an array of options from grade options ranging from short wheelbase to long wheelbase, 2 loading deck types, a flat tailgate and no tailgate. Engines come in 3 sizes and customers can select between a manual or automatic transmission. Notably, the pickup bed is flat that can be opened in 3 ways and has the largest load capacity compared to competitors.
3. Compact P/U compact size and mobility with a turning radius as narrow as a small passenger car Can enter and exit the alley flexibly.
4. Durability: Because the ALL-NEW HILUX CHAMP uses the same basic structure (Platform) and engine as the Hilux Revo, there is absolutely no doubt about its durability.
5. Easy for Conversion, easy to modify. This is the main selling point that will help customers reduce costs. and car modification time Because the Module Structure of the ALL-NEW HILUX CHAMP is designed to make it easy for operators to modify their vehicles, such as preparing space for drilling at various points, the Bumper can be disassembled and replaced. Resulting in reducing maintenance costs as well.

Mr. Suphakorn Rattanawaraha, Executive Vice President of Toyota Motor Thailand Company Limited, elaborated on the marketing plan, “IMV0 is undoubtedly the ideal solution for businesses and startups, offering adaptability for a myriad of application purposes. Beyond catering to commercial needs, it has also been crafted for recreational activities and can be customized to complement diverse lifestyles. Embracing the core concept of ‘Monozukuri’ or ‘Easy for Conversion’, the structure of IMV0 is meticulously developed to align with the preferences of Thai customers. To ensure that we comprehensively meet their needs, we have actively engaged with and sought insights from specialized car modification experts. Collaborating closely with our engineering team, they play a pivotal role in refining the model’s structure for easy and effortless modification, seamlessly integrating with OEM products. This strategic approach of collaborative effort aims to facilitate uncomplicated, speedy, and cost-effective modifications when IMV0 is introduced the market. This advancement is a positive impact on our customers, ultimately leading to increased income. Recognizing the value of preparation, we have initiated widespread consultations with car modification operators nationwide. Over 100 enterprises have eagerly begun gearing up for the launch of IMV0, studying our products in advance and ensuring that modification parts and processes are appropriately finetuned for a seamless integration.”

Mr. Suphakorn further added on the new sales channel, “We are introducing a groundbreaking ‘new sales experience’ in which Toyota dealers nationwide are ready to deliver a seamless ‘One Stop Service’ to customers. This comprehensive sales service approach encompasses the entire spectrum of customer demands, starting from facilitating the conversion purchase by displaying the information of modified products on Toyota website. There will also be a list of certified car modification entrepreneurs on Toyota website, salespeople’s directory, as well as an online ‘Conversion Portal’ which will serve as a hub for a vast array of information and listings of over 118 companies, products, and packages. This portal allows customers to refine their search based on their preferred modification models or geographic locations, offering a personalized selection process. Customers visiting the Conversion Portal can explore images of modified cars based on their desired conversion type, view price ranges, and calculate estimated modification costs. This makes it possible for them to know where and how to purchase conversions, streamlining the purchase and payment process with upfront modification cost estimates. Moreover, it allows salespeople to engage customers more effectively by offering a wide variety of solutions specifically tailored to individual needs, ultimately resulting in their ability to meet the diverse customer requirements.”

Mr. Suphakorn explained about Toyota’s support for Thai SMEs, “We provide comprehensive business solutions, enabling customers to not only purchase vehicles, but also start their own business through a franchise model. For example, next year, entrepreneurs looking to venture into the coffee business can own the IMV0 along with a franchise through Toyota-owned 'TOGETA' franchise, which will be associated with the IMV0 vehicles. Strengthening our commitment, we have fostered firm partnerships with prominent franchises to co-brand with IMV0, extending a diverse product range to our customers. To foster business growth for local franchisees, we are committed to leveraging the extensive Toyota dealer network and collaborating with well-established brands to offer ‘integrated business startup solutions’ to IMV0 customers across various industries. This one-stop service extends beyond individuals to companies seeking agility in expansion. Our salespeople can seamlessly tailor the IMV0 vehicles to meet specific business needs. As a testament to this, you can witness the prototype of the Amazon Brand, a collaboration between us, PTT OR, and our partner MKC, developed to complement the IMV0 model. Through various initiatives and our IMV0 models, it is evident that our mission extends beyond merely selling cars. We take great pride in providing opportunities for all Thai people and contributing to the advancement of people's lives. This is precisely encapsulated in our slogan, 'ALL-NEW HILUX CHAMP, the new opportunities begin.

The sales target for the "ALL-NEW HILUX CHAMP" is currently set at 1,500 units per month. Following today's media launch, the official introduction will take place at the Thailand International Motor Expo on 29 November 2023. Then, reservations will be open, and vehicle deliveries to customers are scheduled to commence from January 2024. Subsequently, a comprehensive set of activities will follow. On 24 January 2024, the official launch at Toyota showrooms will coincide with the vehicle being showcased at different key festivals across several provinces in Thailand. Plus, another highlight event is the car modification idea contest, engaging the creativity of the new generation as they present various ideas for car customization,” Mr. Suphakorn said with sheer confidence. 

Ms. Chuenkamol Dapparungsi, President of Toyota Leasing (Thailand), revealed about the special leasing promotion, Toyota Leasing has deliberately developed state-of-the-art financial and insurance products tailored to diverse customer segments in a bid to promote the sales of ALL-NEW HILUX CHAMP, which is divided into two primary categories. The first category is Hire Purchase, featuring promotional programs that facilitates our valued customers for convenient ownership under the concept of "Easy to OWN", while the second category introduces an innovative product called Mobility as a Service (MaaS), branded as "Kinto One CommerceX", which proudly presents a unique car rental program that goes well beyond traditional ownership by offering enhanced convenience. More notably, our promotional programs, introduced in conjunction with the car launch, are meticulously designed to cater to the diverse needs of customers, spanning various price levels and segments. We aim to facilitate easier ownership opportunities by introducing installments that are, on average, greater than 10% lower compared to the previous rates. This is achieved by extending the maximum installment payment period to 108 months along with enhancing the "Sabaidee" program for customers opting for short-term, low-installment payments. In addition, customers can choose to include the cost of car accessories in their installment plans. In terms of loan approval, our credit standards are generally becoming more flexible, and the Connected Auto Loan tools also allow for the exclusion of guarantors.”

Financial promotional package to facilitate car ownership and installation of car accessories:
Special finance package to support easy to buy and easy conversion

• Start down payment at 5%
(Special car with conversion, start down payment at 10%, instead of 15%)
• 108 Hire Purchase, the super long finance term aim to lower monthly payment.
(Approximately 4,723 baht, or 11% lower comparing to Hire Purchase 84 months at 25% DP)
• Sabuy-D 60 months with special residual value 45%, less than 3,822 baht monthly payment ( at DP25% 60 months) *Installment calculations are based on a 25% down payment and a car price of 459,000 baht.
• Additionally, car maintenance packages can be included.

“KINTO ONE CommerceX”

• Drive a car without the commitment of ownership as you can pay one price and enjoy the entire car with all its accessories. This is a package that offers complete freedom and simplicity in car ownership experience. Just choose your preferred model the suit your personal or business needs.
• Customers no longer need to concern themselves with maintenance costs, insurance renewals, or car tax renewals, as they can pay for the service at a consistent price.
• The package is inclusive of all services without any additional vehicle modification costs, providing an all-in-one solution for a single price. There is a diverse selection of commercial vehicle models together with accessories, offering flexible terms and conditions.
• There are options of driving packages for selection, or you can opt for 3 – 7 years of ownership.

PHYD “Pay How You Drive” 

• This insurance scheme caters to not only individual customers, but also business clients. It offers significant savings on insurance premiums for new cars.
• It allows for renewal discounts of up to 40% determined by the actual distance driven and driving behavior.

Aftersales Service Package
We provide maintenance packages tailored to our customers’ application and the diverse needs

• For large businesses, Fleet Care can customize packages based on the specific requirements of each business.
• SME businesses, as well as personal users, can benefit from the “Smart Plan Lite” which includes oil changes along with special discounts on spare parts for periodic maintenance. This plan is designed to help customers save on vehicle maintenance costs. Customers can buy this package and make installment payments, in conjunction with the new car leasing program, based on their preferred installment period.

Additionally, we prioritize convenience and speed at our service center by offering express lanes to minimize service times. Besides, we extend comprehensive off-site services through Toyota Mobile Service vehicles which have been developed to support various needs.

Experience endless customization of mobility solutions with the “ALL-NEW HILUX CHAMP”, The Latest Thai National Car by Toyota, at nationwide Toyota dealerships. Alternatively, you may look forward to the 40th Thailand International Motor Expo 2023 during Nov 30 – Dec 11, 2023, IMPACT Challenger 1-3 and showroom launch activities on the 24th of January 2024. 
A Hilux Highlight Festival will also be held, which will bring the “ALL-NEW HILUX CHAMP” along with modified cars to be displayed in various provinces. This includes a project of contest car customization ideas to allow groups of new generations to express various customization ideas.

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