Toyota is Saving the Earth One Precious Metal at a Time

In order to be labeled as an "innovative automaker," a company must be two things: creative and ahead of the pack. The technology it produces must not only be unique, it must be highly-advanced and address issues which others have not yet even begun to consider. Our favorite automaker's latest initiative, we must say, is a brilliant example of innovation.

While most car manufacturers are focusing on making good hybrids, Toyota has its eyes set on making good hybrids even better. How can that be?, you ask. Well, most consumers are unaware that some of the top hybrids on the market, including the Toyota Prius, use rare earth minerals in their motor magnets. In order to reduce the amount of precious material Toyota takes from Mother Earth, engineers are researching the development of a new kind of electric motor. Called an "induction-type motor," the powerplant part would not depend on earth metals such as neodymium and dysprosium.

At this point in time, Toyota officials say that the technology is in advanced stages of research. John Hanson, a company spokesman, explains, "It's a long-term approach. When you're looking a geopolitical issue like rare-earth supply, that can lead to developments that create very good solutions."¹

As with any other Toyota initiative, Avondale Toyota promises to keep you informed of the new induction motor's progression. In the meantime, however, feel free to drop by 10005 West Papago Freeway Avondale, AZ 85323 and check out our full new Toyota lineup (i.e. the Toyota RAV4).

Source: ¹http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-01-14/toyota-readying-electric-motors-that-don-t-use-rare-earths.html