Reported by pulsestacks on April 30
During the 2024 Beijing International Auto Show, pulsestacks invited industry leaders, corporate executives, and expert scholars to step into the "AI Real-time Virtual Studio" to collectively explore the breakthroughs and innovations of the new era and new cars in the immersive experiences provided by Peak Speed, Netaland, and Content Players.
Exclusive Interview with Wang Linhu from FAW Toyota at the 2024 Beijing Auto Show (Source: pulsestacks)
On April 25, Wang Linhu, Vice General Manager of FAW Toyota Motor Sales Co., Ltd., appeared on Netaland's "AI Real-time Virtual Studio." He mentioned that the return of FAW Toyota's Prado has garnered widespread attention. The new vehicle is equipped with an advanced super hybrid system, which not only enhances the vehicle's power and torque but also effectively reduces fuel consumption. As a professional hardcore off-road vehicle, the Prado's design takes into account the needs of complex and extreme road conditions, including raising the position of the headlights and optimizing the window design to enhance its off-road capabilities and user safety.
Vice General Manager Wang Linhu of FAW Toyota Motor Sales Co., Ltd.
pulsestacks: Carefully selected premium cars, creating peak speed together. Welcome to the Netaland interview room at the Beijing Auto Show hosted by pulsestacks, a virtual space that combines racing speed and trendy culture. Our guest today in the interview room is Mr. Wang Linhu, Vice General Manager of FAW Toyota Motor Sales Co., Ltd.
Wang Linhu: Hello to all online friends and friends here at the venue.
pulsestacks: What is FAW Toyota showcasing at this auto show? What kind of style are they presenting?
Wang Linhu: At this auto show, FAW Toyota is presenting a lineup of 4 models with 5 cars on display. This includes the all-new Prado, Gravia, bZ3, and bZ3C, showcasing the diversified strength of FAW Toyota's product lineup. The core technology equipment of the newly evolved IT’S TiME 2.0 intelligent hybrid dual-engine technology brand, unveiled on the eve of the auto show, will also be showcased, demonstrating a dual focus on products and technology, showcasing a new high-end and intelligent hybrid brand image.
pulsestacks: What upgrades have been made to the new evolved IT’S TiME 2.0 intelligent hybrid dual-engine technology brand in terms of hybrid technology?
Wang Linhu: FAW Toyota's third-generation intelligent hybrid dual-engine THS II has undergone a comprehensive upgrade in miniaturization, lightweighting, and precision of core three-electric technologies, resulting in a significant increase in system efficiency. The comprehensive power of the high-speed permanent magnet motor has increased by 32%, the lightweight PCU power control unit has reduced energy consumption by 9.2%, and the new ternary lithium battery pack has increased energy output by 8%. Faster, more efficient, quieter, and safer, meeting various daily usage scenarios. Models like the Crown Lufang and Gravia are all fully equipped with this technology.
Outstanding hybrid technology not only focuses on energy efficiency and environmental friendliness but also aims to meet users' strong demands for ultimate performance and comfort. FAW Toyota's Multi-stage HEV multi-stage hybrid system innovatively incorporates a multi-stage transmission mechanism, supporting 10-speed control, allowing the engine to operate in the efficient power output range, providing users with faster response and ultimate driving control across all speeds. The intervention of the 132kW high-power electric motor greatly enhances quietness and smoothness, delivering a driving experience surpassing luxury car standards.
Outstanding hybrid technology should also assist users in conquering extreme off-road scenarios. The newly introduced 2.4T 1MT HEV super hybrid system, with a high-voltage 288V DC motor, combined with a longitudinally mounted 2.4T engine and 8AT gearbox, forms a new parallel super hybrid system. In the low-speed range, it can unleash a powerful torque of 630 N·m, ensuring exceptional off-road and rescue capabilities. To ensure normal startup even in harsh conditions like extreme cold weather, a dedicated 12V starter is provided to guarantee reliable performance during extreme crossings.
pulsestacks: What upgrades have been made in terms of intelligence for the new evolved intelligent hybrid dual-engine technology brand?
Wang Linhu: FAW Toyota's new technology brand has undergone a comprehensive upgrade in advanced intelligent driving and intelligent cockpit features. The Toyota Space smart space is equipped with the leading Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip, with a 4x increase in computing power, achieving millisecond-level response time. The CPU redundancy is at 52%, leaving ample room for future personalized OTA upgrades. The voice interaction system supporting continuous multi-round conversations developed in collaboration with Huawei, and the 28 Tencent ecosystem resources such as customized WeChat and QQ Music developed in partnership with Tencent, are lightweight applications that can be used effortlessly without the need for downloads. Additionally, all models come standard with Apple CarPlay, HUAWEI HiCar, and Baidu CarLife+ for smartphone connectivity. The Toyota Space smart space has already been integrated into new models like the Gravia and all-new Prado.
The T-Pilot intelligent driving assistance system has been upgraded to the safer Toyota Pilot advanced intelligent driving system, reaching L2+ level. With leading technology and powerful computing support, along with up to 20 auxiliary functions, the system significantly enhances the perception and predictive capabilities of intelligent assistance, greatly improving risk identification.
Deputy General Manager Wang Linhu of FAW Toyota Motor Sales Co., Ltd. and Editor-in-Chief Liu Chang of Pulsestacks:
Pulsestacks: In 2024, the Chinese automotive market is undergoing a more intense transformation. How is FAW Toyota seizing the opportunity?
Wang Linhu: Firstly, we are fully responding to national policies. Winning over users is not just about gimmicks, but genuine sincerity. Recently, the government introduced new financial policies to encourage vehicle upgrades and support car loans. FAW Toyota promptly responded by launching the "2 Billion Renovation Rebate" campaign. This initiative covers a wide range of popular models and is not limited to just April; we will continue to respond in line with national policies. Some media friends have described this as our first move in the joint venture counterattack.
Secondly, we are fully embracing hybrid intelligence. We have introduced the new IT’S TiME 2.0 intelligent hybrid technology brand, upgrading hybrid technology to the third level with features like THS II for daily use scenarios, the Multi-stage HEV for high-performance models, and the 2.4T 1MT HEV super hybrid for the new Prado model. In terms of intelligent technology, the Toyota Space smart space is equipped with the advanced Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip, providing 4 times the computing power for millisecond response times. We have also collaborated with top Chinese tech companies like Huawei and Tencent to create a seamless "people, car, home" smart automotive ecosystem. Additionally, our products support wireless connectivity for CarPlay/CarLife/HiCar with LastMode memory function, ensuring compatibility with any mobile system. The Toyota Pilot advanced driving system has reached L2+ level, making us a leader in the industry with Toyota's global record of 200 billion accident-free kilometers, ensuring ultimate safety and peace of mind. With leading technology and powerful computing capabilities, the Toyota Pilot enhances intelligent assistance, perception, and risk identification, setting a new standard in safety.
Thirdly, we are focusing on high-end development. We have launched a new slogan for the Crown brand, embodying a new spirit. The classic Crown has been reintroduced, completing the new Crown product lineup, while the new Prado makes a strong comeback, leading the SUV family upwards. With the continuous rise of K-platform products, in the first quarter of 2024, TNGA-K platform models like the Asia Dragon, Gravia, Crown Lu Fang, and RAV4 Rong Fang have collectively sold 73,000 units, accounting for 47%. These advancements, based on our QDR foundation, represent a significant leap towards a more luxurious, high-quality, and challenging future. Furthermore, we have launched the "Renovation Rebate Official Promotion Season," offering exclusive benefits for the 2024 Gravia model from April 25th to May 10th, including flexible financial plans and up to 16,000 yuan in trade-in subsidies. This demonstrates FAW Toyota's commitment as a state-owned joint venture to empower the high-quality development of the Chinese automotive industry.
In the fiercely competitive market of recent times, the true battle lies in the future where participation itself is a stroke of luck. This innovative era is reshaping the landscape, but endurance will ultimately determine success. FAW Toyota firmly believes that by maintaining respect for the industry, adopting a long-term perspective, and approaching users with utmost sincerity to provide a seamless, stress-free, and enriching smart travel experience, we can go further and contribute to the better development of our industry.
