Categoría: Ricardo

Kia Motors To «Accelerate The Good» Through Donations To High School Football Programs Impacted By The Pandemic

Woodrow Wilson High School in Camden, New Jersey to Receive a $50,000 Donation from Kia; Donations to Additional High Schools to be Announced

IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 5, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — 

<img id="prnejpgd600left" title="Kia Motors To "Accelerate The Good" Through Donations…

Woodrow Wilson High School in Camden, New Jersey to Receive a $50,000 Donation from Kia; Donations to Additional High Schools to be Announced

IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 5, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — 

Kia Motors To "Accelerate The Good" Through Donations To High School Football Programs Impacted By The Pandemic
  • Campaign is an extension of Kia’s «Accelerate The Good» charitable initiatives which includes college scholarships, homeless youth assistance, and pandemic relief
  • Kia’s new «The Game Must Go On» creative elements; and a :30-second spot, entitled «The Bear & The Eagle» featuring the 2021 Sorento SUV, available at YouTube.com/Kia

As America readies for the action of the field this Sunday, Kia Motors America today announced an all-out blitz in support of America’s youth, specifically those whose football dreams have been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. After 11 consecutive years of award-winning and thought-provoking ads in the big game, this year, Kia will focus on giving back directly to young people nationwide through a new charitable initiative in support of high school football programs across the country.

The first high school recipient is Woodrow Wilson High School in Camden, N.J. With 68 players on the team roster, in the fall of 2020, the Woodrow Wilson Tigers suspended their season due to budget cuts and social distancing mandates. Additional high school football programs will be added to the campaign and announced over the coming weeks.

«Football is America’s game, and this Sunday will provide the welcome break we all need from the pandemic. As we thought about it more, we realized Kia could use this as an opportunity to help high school players keep working toward their dreams of someday being on football’s biggest stage,» said Russell Wager, vice president, marketing, Kia Motors America. «Kia is continuing to help young people in need get back some of their pre-pandemic lives. We admire the resolve and determination of the Woodrow Wilson Tigers and look forward to celebrating more extraordinary young people across the country who simply want to play the game they love.»

Supporting high school football teams is the latest extension of Kia Motors’ «Accelerate The Good» charitable initiative, which began in 2019 when the Great Unknowns Scholarship was established to help young people in need get a foothold in higher education. At the onset of the pandemic in 2020, Kia continued these efforts by making two separate $1 million donations to organizations that support America’s homeless youth population. In addition to the monetary donations, Kia Team Member volunteers assembled personal protective equipment (PPE) at Kia’s manufacturing plant in Georgia, ultimately delivering more than 550,000 face shields to hospitals and medical centers across the country.

«We’re honored and humbled to accept such a wonderful donation from Kia Motors,» said, Camden City School Superintendent, Katrina McCombs. «Our children and student-athletes deserve every opportunity to compete in the classroom and on the athletic fields. We know first-hand that this generous donation will help restore and elevate our football program for some very deserving student-athletes.»

Additional campaign elements include a :30-second video, «The Game Must Go On,» which illustrates the impact cancelled sports programs can have on young people. A :30-second broadcast spot, entitled «The Bear & The Eagle,»  featuring the all-new 2021 Kia Sorento SUV will debut on network and cable outlets. The spot takes the viewer on a surreal journey into a wide variety of wilderness adventures while highlighting various features of Kia’s rugged and capable new SUV.

About Kia Motors America
Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia Motors America continues to top quality surveys and is recognized as one of the 100 Best Global Brands. Kia serves as the «Official Automotive Partner» of the NBA and offers a complete range of vehicles sold through a network of more than 750 dealers in the U.S., including cars and SUVs proudly assembled in West Point, Georgia.*

For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com. To receive custom email notifications for press releases the moment they are published, subscribe at www.kiamedia.com/us/en/newsalert.

*The Telluride, Sorento and K5 are assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts.

Kia Motors America Logo

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SOURCE Kia Motors America

Misty Copeland Launches Mustang Mach-E Social Challenge to Honor Unique Strength of Women – #ShowSomeMuscle

DEARBORN, Mich., Feb. 4, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Now more than ever, women are flexing their muscle as we work to navigate through challenging times. From essential workers to teachers, nurses, rising political leaders and poets, women are demonstrating the kind of strength it takes to keep pushing forward – both in the workplace and at home. Ford is paying tribute to all of the formidable women leading the way with the launch of the Mustang Mach-E #ShowSomeMuscle social media…

DEARBORN, Mich., Feb. 4, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Now more than ever, women are flexing their muscle as we work to navigate through challenging times. From essential workers to teachers, nurses, rising political leaders and poets, women are demonstrating the kind of strength it takes to keep pushing forward – both in the workplace and at home. Ford is paying tribute to all of the formidable women leading the way with the launch of the Mustang Mach-E #ShowSomeMuscle social media challenge. #ShowSomeMuscle encourages everyday heroes to share their personal stories of perseverance, ingenuity, compassion, creativity and more.

American ballet dancer Misty Copeland, professional basketball player Gabby Williams, award-winning TV personality Lilliana Vazquez, and Ayana Lage, an advocate for social justice, helped kick off the challenge earlier this week. These talented, accomplished women are sharing their personal stories of unique strength and triumph, and nominating the inspirational women in their own lives to also #ShowSomeMuscle.

«After 20 years of performing, the loss of live shows and the purpose that gave me has taken its toll,» said Copeland. «But I have been inspired by and have witnessed real courage and resilience, and seen strength in vulnerability as we remain hopeful of an end to the pandemic. That’s why I’m honored to be among the first voices to share my story in the Mustang Mach-E #ShowSomeMuscle challenge and to celebrate the women who continue to inspire me.»

Through #ShowSomeMuscle, Ford is providing a platform – and an iconic symbol – to spotlight all of the inspirational women who are redefining what real muscle looks like.

«With Mustang Mach-E, Ford is redefining the conventional idea of a muscle car,» said Emma Bergg, Ford global electric vehicle communications manager. «Through this challenge, we’re highlighting that muscle is not only physical form and brute strength – it encompasses innovation, empathy, creativity, compassion and resilience.»

To illustrate the spirit of the challenge, Ford is working with Detroit-bred fine artist and muralist Sydney James to create custom artwork for a limited-edition #ShowSomeMuscle T-shirt.

«My body of work is about strong women,» said James. «My inspiration for the Madonna of Muscle art featured on this shirt is a leader, entrepreneur and hustler in the Detroit community – one whose image exudes so much more than physical strength.»

Highlights of the accomplishments of these talented heroes sharing their stories include:

Misty Copeland: With 20 years of professional ballet under her belt, Copeland made history by becoming the first African American woman to be a principal dancer at one of the nation’s most prestigious dance companies. She is the author of three bestselling books, Life in Motion Ballerina Body, and Bunheads.

Gabby Williams: Professional basketball player, Williams brings dominating athleticism and dynamic skill to the court. With a flair for music and fashion and a mind for activism, Williams is a power forward, was the No. 4 draft pick, and plays in Hungary.

Lilliana Vazquez: Award-winning TV personality Vazquez brings a larger-than-life presence to everything she does. She is a proud member of the Latinx community and embraces her responsibility as a role model for others who aspire to work in fashion and television.

Ayana Lage: Tampa-based blog curator Lage has made a name for herself as an outspoken advocate for social justice. As a new mother, she has been open with her followers about postpartum mental health.

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan. The company designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of Ford cars, trucks, SUVs, electrified vehicles and Lincoln luxury vehicles, provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company and is pursuing leadership positions in electrification; mobility solutions, including self-driving services; and connected services. Ford employs approximately 187,000 people worldwide. For more information regarding Ford, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company, please visit www.corporate.ford.com.

Contact:

Emma Bergg

313.418.6590

ebergg@ford.com

 

Photo Credit: Lamar Landers

 

Photo Credit: Lamar Landers

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SOURCE Ford Motor Company

Mazda Reports January Sales Results

IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 2, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported total January sales of 25,259 vehicles, an increase of 6.9 percent compared to January 2020. With 24 selling days in January, compared to 25 the year prior,…

IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 2, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported total January sales of 25,259 vehicles, an increase of 6.9 percent compared to January 2020. With 24 selling days in January, compared to 25 the year prior, the company posted an increase of 11.4 percent on a Daily Selling Rate (DSR) basis.

Sales Highlights

  • Sales of Mazda’s family of crossovers, including the CX-3, CX-30, CX-5, and CX-9, totaled 20,279 in January, an increase of 6.9 percent compared to January 2020.
  • Sales of the CX-9 increased 5.7 percent in January with 2,698 vehicles sold.  
  • Sales of the CX-5 increased 5.2 percent with 13,583 vehicles sold.  
  • Sales of the CX-30 totaled 3,624 in January, an increase of 53 percent compared to January 2020.
  • Sales of the MX-5 Miata totaled 536 vehicles, an increase of 35.4 percent compared to January 2020.
  • Sales of the Mazda3 increased 22 percent with 3,046 vehicles sold.  
  • CPO sales totaled 5,247 vehicles in January, an increase of 12.4 percent compared to January 2020.

Mazda Motor de Mexico (MMdM) reported January sales of 3,769 vehicles, a decrease of 21.2 percent compared to January 2020.

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, California, and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States and Mexico through approximately 620 dealers. Operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City. For more information on Mazda vehicles, including photography and B-roll, please visit the online Mazda media center at InsideMazda.MazdaUSA.com/Newsroom.

Follow MNAO’s social media channels through Twitter and Instagram at @MazdaUSA and Facebook at Facebook.com/MazdaUSA.

Month-To-Date

Year-To-Date

January

January

YOY %

% MTD

January

January

YOY %

% MTD

2021

2020

Change

DSR

2021

2020

Change

DSR

Mazda3

3,046

2,496

22.0%

27.1%

3,046

2,496

22.0%

27.1%

Mazda6

1,398

1,755

(20.3)%

(17.0)%

1,398

1,755

(20.3)%

(17.0)%

MX-5 Miata

536

396

35.4%

41.0%

536

396

35.4%

41.0%

CX-3

374

1,146

(67.4)%

(66.0)%

374

1,146

(67.4)%

(66.0)%

CX-30

3,624

2,368

53.0%

59.4%

3,624

2,368

53.0%

59.4%

CX-5

13,583

12,908

5.2%

9.6%

13,583

12,908

5.2%

9.6%

CX-9

2,698

2,552

5.7%

10.1%

2,698

2,552

5.7%

10.1%

CARS

4,980

4,647

7.2%

11.6%

4,980

4,647

7.2%

11.6%

TRUCKS

20,279

18,974

6.9%

11.3%

20,279

18,974

6.9%

11.3%

TOTAL

25,259

23,621

6.9%

11.4%

25,259

23,621

6.9%

11.4%

*Selling Days

24

25

24

25

 

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/53154/mazda_north_american_operations_logo.jpg

SOURCE Mazda North American Operations

Acura Wins IMSA Rolex 24 at Daytona

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla., Feb. 1, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Almost exactly 30 years after Acura’s first class win at Daytona International Raceway, the manufacturer triumphed over all this weekend as Wayne Taylor Racing won this weekend’s 59th running of the Rolex 24 at Daytona.

<img id="prnejpg787aleft" title="#10 Konica Minolta Acura ARX-05 Acura DPi, DPi: Helio Castroneves, Alexander Rossi,…

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla., Feb. 1, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Almost exactly 30 years after Acura’s first class win at Daytona International Raceway, the manufacturer triumphed over all this weekend as Wayne Taylor Racing won this weekend’s 59th running of the Rolex 24 at Daytona.

#10 Konica Minolta Acura ARX-05 Acura DPi, DPi: Helio Castroneves, Alexander Rossi, Filipe Albuquerque, Ricky Taylor winner

The season-opening round in the 2021 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, this weekend’s 24-hour endurance contest came down to the final hour, with five teams contending for the overall victory.  Combining speed with endurance – with the Acura ARX-05 prototype requiring fewer pit stops than the competition over the length of the race – the WTR driver lineup of Ricky Taylor, Filipe Albuquerque, Alexander Rossi and Helio Castroneves held off late-race charges from the Cadillacs of Chip Ganassi Racing and Action Express, the Mazda-Multimatic prototype, and fellow Acura team Meyer Shank Racing to score their third consecutive Daytona victory, and the first with Acura.

All five contenders were running within 30 seconds of each other as the race entered its final hour.  A «short fill» and two tire only change at the final pit stop moved Albuquerque’s Acura to the head of the field, with the Ganassi prototype of Renger van der Zande less than two seconds back. However, a cut tire with just seven minutes remaining sent van der Zande to the pits, and Albuquerque went on to take the checkers, and Acura’s first overall victory in the Rolex 24 at Daytona.

In the SiriusXM AutoNation Acura ARX-05, the Meyer Shank Racing lineup of Dane Cameron, Olivier Pla, Juan Pablo Montoya and A.J. Allmendinger also led multiple times throughtout the race, but was forced to deal with handling issues as winds increased in the final hours, taking the checkers in fourth.

Acura NSX GT3 Evo
Electronic issues and an early-race cut tire dented the Acura GTD debut of the Magnus with Archangel’s NSX GT3 Evo, driven by Andy Lally, John Potter, Spencer Pumpelly and two-time defending GTD champion Mario Farnbacher.  The cut tire, likely the result of debris on track, damaged the underbody and led to an unscheduled pit stop for #44 Acura in the opening hour, and a series of delays through the night left the NSX GT3 Evo team 11th at the finish.

Acura Rolex 24 Results

  • 1st overall – #10 Wayne Taylor Racing Acura ARX-05 DPi 
                            Drivers Ricky Taylor, Filipe Albuquerque, Alexander Rossi, Helio Castroneves
  • 4th overall – #60 Meyer Shank Racing Acura ARX-05 DPi 
                            Drivers Dane Cameron, Olivier Pla, Juan Pablo Montoya, A.J. Allmendinger
  • 11th GTD –  Magnus with Archangel Acura NSX GT3 Evo 
                            Drivers Andy Lally, John Potter, Spencer Pumpelly, Mario Farnbacher

DPi Manufacturers’ Championship (after 1 of 10 rounds)

  1. Acura          380
  2. Cadillac       355
  3. Mazda         332

Acura Rolex 24 Fast Facts

  • Today’s overall win at the Rolex 24 comes almost exactly 30 years after Acura scored its first major endurance racing victory, the Camel Lights class win at Daytona, February 2-3, 1991.
  • Acura first entered IMSA competition in 1991, shortly after the company’s founding in 1986, and the 1991 Daytona race was the first major event for the company. Comptech Racing and drivers Parker Johnstone, Steve Cameron [uncle of current Acura racer Dane Cameron] and Bob Lesnett, driving a Spice Acura SE90P, claimed the victory that year in a class that compares to today’s LMP2 division.
  • Acura repeated as Camel Lights win at Daytona in 1992, with Comptech drivers Johnstone, and Cameron joined by Jimmy Vasser [who also won Honda’s first Indy car championship in 1996].
  • Today’s victory is the third consecutive Rolex 24 triumph for Wayne Taylor Racing but the first since WTR became an Acura team at the end of 2020.

Quotes
Filipe Albuquerque (#10 Konica Minolta Wayne Taylor Racing Acura ARX-05) Rolex 24 at Daytona winner:  «I think it was a hell of a show. I could almost see [Renger van der Zande’s] eyes in my mirrors, he was so hungry for this. He was faster than me, but it’s one thing to catch and another thing is to pass. He was really pushing hard. I was lucky that they had a puncture. This was probably the hardest race of my life.»

Dane Cameron (#60 Meyer Shank Racing ARX-05) finished 4th: «All in all it was an okay day. Our goal was to put ourselves in contention [for the win] at the end of the day and we did that by finishing on the lead lap. The Meyer Shank Racing boys did a great job preparing the car and executing pit stops without issues. It is probably the first time in six or seven years that I have run this race without a problem on a pit stop. I am very pleased with the effort the guys put in, with a short off-season and a large transition to a new program. We lacked a bit of speed near the end of the race today, but we were able to compete for a victory when it counted. We will take good [championship] points from today for our championship effort and we’ll move forward and turn the page to Sebring.» 

David Salters (President, Honda Performance Development) on this weekend’s Acura victory at the season-opening Rolex 24: «It’s an historic day for Acura, and thanks to IMSA for putting on a stunning event. I want to thank all of our teams for their huge effort to come and race here in arguably one of the most arduous endurance events on the planet. They came, and demonstrated just how good they were.  This is all the result of a team effort.  Everyone at HPD was integral in developing the strong relationship we have with our teams, and I believe it showed in today’s results.  I also need to thank all the marvelous people at Team Penske for their efforts and success the previous three years.  They established the foundations that we’re now building upon.  Again, it’s all about a team of brilliant, hard-working people, and it shows the performance heritage of Acura.»

Next
The 2020 WeatherTech SportsCar Championship now moves to central Florida for the 69th annual Mobil One 12 Hours of Sebring, March 20 in Sebring, Fla.

Acura Motorsports Social media content and video links from this weekend’s Rolex 24 at Daytona are available on Instagram (www.instagram.com/hondaracing_hpd), Twitter (www.twitter.com/HondaRacing_HPD) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/HondaRacingHPD).

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SOURCE Acura Motorsports

2022 MDX Asserts its Role as the Flagship of the Acura Brand in New Launch Campaign

TORRANCE, Calif., Feb. 1, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — In advance of arriving at dealerships Feb. 2, Acura’s all-new 2022 MDX launch campaign (<a target="_blank"…

TORRANCE, Calif., Feb. 1, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — In advance of arriving at dealerships Feb. 2, Acura’s all-new 2022 MDX launch campaign (acura.us/mdxlaunchcampaign) demonstrates how Acura’s long-time racing and sports car success is powering the fourth-generation SUV to its new role as the flagship of the brand.

2022 MDX Asserts its Role as the Flagship of the Acura Brand in New Launch Campaign

Set to the soundtrack of Queen’s «Tear It Up,» the new Acura campaign highlights key components of the all-new MDX, including its bold and athletic exterior design along with a new, sophisticated and elegant interior featuring the most high-tech and advanced cockpit in the brand’s history. MDX performance is underpinned by a first-ever double-wishbone front suspension applied to its all-new, ultra-rigid platform, featured in an accompanying spot (acura.us/mdxperformance) that also demonstrates MDX’s towing capability. Full 2022 MDX information is available here.

The integrated campaign takes viewers on an exciting trip through Acura’s pinnacle vehicles and racecars to highlight that MDX shares the «same DNA» as the original 1991 NSX, 2001 Integra Type R and the 2021 NSX. Acura’s racing heritage is reflected with the Comptech Spice Acura GTP Lights racecar that Parker Johnstone drove to three consecutive IMSA Camel Lights Driver’s Championships from 1991 to 1993, along with an appearance by the back-to-back IMSA Championship-winning NSX GT3 Evo.

The campaign was developed in collaboration with agency of record MullenLowe LA, and will be featured across broadcast, digital and social media. Key national broadcast highlights include cable and live sports – NBA, NCAA and March Madness match-ups. The 2022 MDX campaign will also be featured on streaming platforms with :30 and :15 versions of the TV creative, along with :06 versions featured across social media. Acura’s MDX spots will also run in Spanish and Chinese-language.

     Other key campaign components include:

  • «Origin Story,» a social media activation launching next month on Acura’s social channels with a series of videos that dive further into the «same DNA» performance and innovation story that led to MDX.
  • «Working Mom,» a dedicated Spanish-language :30 TV spot, that will run across national Hispanic networks including Telemundo and Univision, showcasing the duality of the 2022 MDX as a high-performance and ultramodern family SUV to reach Hispanic audiences.
  • High-impact digital editorial partnerships with Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast, Martini, as well as Hispanic outlets such as People en Español and Mama’s Latina.
  • Integration of high-impact digital media to reach key Chinese audiences, working with niche publishers such as Asian Media Group.

About Acura

Acura is a leading automotive nameplate that delivers Precision Crafted Performance – a commitment to expressive styling, high performance and innovative engineering, all built on a foundation of quality and reliability. The Acura lineup features five distinctive models – the ILX and TLX sport sedans, the RDX and MDX sport-utility vehicles and the next-generation, electrified NSX supercar. All Acura models sold in North America for the 2021 model year are made in the U.S., using domestic and globally sourced parts.

Additional media information including pricing, features & specifications and high-resolution photography is available at AcuraNews.com. Consumer information is available at Acura.com.

Acura Logo.

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SOURCE Acura

Lexus Unveils New Digital Retail Experience

PLANO, Texas, Feb. 1, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Lexus has officially unveiled the Monogram retail experience, providing guests flexibility in how they buy their next Lexus. Working hand-in-hand with dealerships across the United States to integrate the online and in-store retail experience, Lexus is piloting a retail program providing guests more control over how they purchase their vehicle, increased transparency into current inventory and real-time…

PLANO, Texas, Feb. 1, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Lexus has officially unveiled the Monogram retail experience, providing guests flexibility in how they buy their next Lexus. Working hand-in-hand with dealerships across the United States to integrate the online and in-store retail experience, Lexus is piloting a retail program providing guests more control over how they purchase their vehicle, increased transparency into current inventory and real-time pricing, and flexibility to shop when and how they want.

Developed in partnership with Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) and Lexus Financial Services (LFS) in response to shifting consumer purchase preferences, Monogram offers a flexible shopping experience befitting the Lexus brand.

Lexus’ Monogram technology puts the car buying process in the hands of the guest, providing an integrated user experience across Lexus.com, the dealership website and the physical dealership store. Customers can choose the path that works best for them by starting their journey online, saving their progress in the «digital garage» to pick up where they left off at the dealer, or completing their purchase at home or at their Monogram dealer.

For Lexus dealerships, the new technology integrates with current inventory, the customer relationship management system (CRM) and directly with financing through LFS, allowing sales associates the opportunity to better understand customers wants and needs, while accessing time-saving tools, enhanced analytics and advanced lead handling that allows the dealer to pick up right where the guest left off online.

«Our goal is to create greater transparency with our guests and efficiency for our dealers – whether that’s in the showroom or online,» said Andrew Gilleland, group vice president and general manager, Lexus Division. «From increased flexibility for guests to enhanced technology for our dealers, Monogram provides our brand the tools to anticipate guest expectations today and into the future.» 

Monogram is currently being piloted in select markets with plans to aggressively accelerate availability through 2021.  An  all-new Monogram complete online experience, which expands to allow customers the ability to complete their purchase online, will roll out market by market starting in Spring 2021.

The new online retail experience is also available to Toyota customers through Toyota SmartPath. You can learn more about SmartPath, here.

Lexus’ passion for brave design, imaginative technology, and exhilarating performance enables the luxury lifestyle brand to create amazing experiences for its guests. Lexus began its journey in 1989 with two luxury sedans and a commitment to pursue perfection. Since then, Lexus has developed its lineup to meet the needs of global luxury guests in more than 90 countries. In the United States, Lexus vehicles are sold through 242 dealers offering a full lineup of luxury vehicles. With six models incorporating Lexus Hybrid Drive, Lexus is the luxury hybrid leader. Lexus also offers eight F SPORT models and two F performance models. Lexus is committed to being a visionary brand that anticipates the future for luxury guests.

www.facebook.com/lexus
www.twitter.com/lexus
www.youtube.com/LexusVehicles
https://plus.google.com/+Lexus/posts
www.instagram.com/lexususa

Note to Editors: Lexus product information and images are available online via our news media web site http://LexusNewsroom.com

MEDIA CONTACT:                                                                                                 
Amanda Roark
469-292-2636
Amanda.Roark@lexus.com

Lexus Logo

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SOURCE Lexus

Toyota Reimagines the New Car Buying Experience with Complete Online Retail Solution

PLANO, Texas, Feb. 1, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) has officially unveiled the next iteration of the SmartPath retail experience, allowing customers flexibility in how they buy their next Toyota. Working hand-in-hand with dealerships across the United States to integrate online and in-store retail, TMNA assumed the responsibility of the research and development of one, comprehensive retail program to offer customers the…

PLANO, Texas, Feb. 1, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) has officially unveiled the next iteration of the SmartPath retail experience, allowing customers flexibility in how they buy their next Toyota. Working hand-in-hand with dealerships across the United States to integrate online and in-store retail, TMNA assumed the responsibility of the research and development of one, comprehensive retail program to offer customers the opportunity to lease, finance or purchase their new vehicle without the need to physically visit the dealership.

Developed in partnership with Toyota Financial Services (TFS) in response to shifting consumer purchase preferences, Toyota began piloting SmartPath in 2019 to expand the retail footprint, offering a flexible shopping experience that is convenient, interactive, connected, transparent, and customized. The COVID-19 virus accelerated consumer demand for digital transactions, with a recent digital shopping survey showing two out of three shoppers are more likely to purchase a vehicle 100% online1.

Toyota’s SmartPath technology puts the car buying process in the hands of the customer, providing an integrated user experience across Toyota.com, buyatoyota.com, the dealership website and the physical dealership store. Customers can choose the path that works best for them by starting their journey online, saving their progress in the «digital garage» and picking up where they left off at the dealer, or completing their purchase with their SmartPath dealer entirely online.

By utilizing SmartPath, customers have more control over how they purchase their vehicle, increased transparency into current inventory and real-time pricing, and flexibility to shop when and how they want.

For Toyota dealerships, the new technology integrates with current inventory, the customer relationship management system (CRM) and directly with financing through TFS, allowing sales associates the opportunity to better understand customers wants and needs, while accessing time-saving tools, enhanced analytics and advanced lead handling that allows the dealer to pick up right where the customer left off online.

«Our goal is to ensure we create the best experience for our customers and our dealers,» said Jack Hollis, senior vice president, Automotive Operations, TMNA. «As our customers’ expectations evolve, SmartPath provides our dealers the technology to exceed those expectations. Our shared mission is to make the experience of shopping, buying, and owning a Toyota as easy and carefree as driving one.»

SmartPath customers have the option to finalize their purchase by physically visiting the dealerships, or through a digital appointment with the dealer.

SmartPath is currently available to customers in select markets through more than 50 dealerships, with an additional 50 dealerships launching this spring, and plans to aggressively bring more SmartPath dealerships to market through 2021. The all-new SmartPath complete online experience, which expands to allow customers the ability to complete their purchase online, will roll out market by market starting in mid-February 2021.

The new online retail experience will also be available to Lexus customers through Lexus Monogram. You can learn more about Monogram, here.

About Toyota:

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for more than 60 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our nearly 1,500 dealerships.

Toyota has created a tremendous value chain and directly employs more than 36,000 in the U.S. The company has contributed world-class design, engineering, and assembly of more than 30 million cars and trucks at our 9 manufacturing plants, 10 including our joint venture in Alabama that begins production in 2021.

To help inspire the next generation for a career in STEM-based fields, including mobility, Toyota launched its virtual education hub at www.TourToyota.com with an immersive experience and chance to visit many of our U.S. manufacturing facilities. The hub also includes a series of free STEM-based lessons and curriculum through Toyota USA Foundation partners, virtual field trips and more. For more information about Toyota, visit www.toyotanewsroom.com.

Media Contact: 
Carley Hummel
469-292-8754
carley.hummel@toyota.com

1 Source: 2020 Cox Automotive COVID-19 Digital Shopping Study, April 4-5, 2020

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SOURCE Toyota Motor North America

Mazda Foundation (USA), Inc. Awards Grants To Address Food Insecurity And Equitable Access To Education

IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 27, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Board of Trustees of the Mazda Foundation (USA) Inc., has awarded $450,000 to four organizations as part of the foundation’s yearly grant giving. The grants will serve communities in Southern California and the greater Huntsville, Alabama, area.

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IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 27, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Board of Trustees of the Mazda Foundation (USA) Inc., has awarded $450,000 to four organizations as part of the foundation’s yearly grant giving. The grants will serve communities in Southern California and the greater Huntsville, Alabama, area.

Grants were awarded to Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County (Irvine, CA), the Food Bank of North Alabama (Huntsville, AL), FUSE Studio (funding a program in Southern California), and AVID Center (funding a program in Madison, AL).

The awards follow the Mazda Foundation’s guiding principle that what matters most is one another. Together, they seek to address not only the result of poverty, but also some of its many causes.

«The awards we’re announcing today address challenges that too many Americans face,» said Jeff Guyton, president of Mazda North American Operations and chairman of the Mazda Foundation (USA), Inc. «Those challenges range from basic food security to equal access to the building blocks of education. Everyone needs these fundamentals in order to thrive.»

The grants to the food banks aim to increase the delivery of food to families in need at a time that demand has skyrocketed, with recent estimates placing that increase at +60% since March 2020. The award to FUSE will fund STEM coursework for several underserved middle schools, and the award to AVID will ensure underserved students have the opportunity not only to be admitted to college, but to succeed once they arrive.

About Mazda Foundation (USA), Inc.

As the corporate foundation of Mazda North American Operations (MNAO), the Mazda Foundation has donated more than $13 million to children’s organizations, educational scholarships, food banks, environmental programs, and disaster relief efforts since 1992. To learn more about the Mazda Foundation, please visit www.mazdafoundation.org.

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SOURCE Mazda Foundation (USA), Inc.

ZF Launches Series Production for new EV Braking System

LIVONIA, Mich., Jan. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — ZF confirms its position as a technology and system supplier for electromobility with a new series production order. The latest in ZF brake control solutions will be established as standard in Volkswagen’s ID.3 and ID.4 models as well as in Volkswagen Group’s globally marketed modular e-drive system MEB platform. With its new brake control, ZF can help to meet high comfort and safety requirements. Furthermore, it optimizes the recovery…

LIVONIA, Mich., Jan. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — ZF confirms its position as a technology and system supplier for electromobility with a new series production order. The latest in ZF brake control solutions will be established as standard in Volkswagen’s ID.3 and ID.4 models as well as in Volkswagen Group’s globally marketed modular e-drive system MEB platform. With its new brake control, ZF can help to meet high comfort and safety requirements. Furthermore, it optimizes the recovery of braking energy – increasing the range and everyday usability of electric vehicles.

Volkswagen Group’s order for the new ZF brake control system covers several million vehicles – starting with the recently introduced ID.3 and ID.4 and continuing with future models based on the manufacturer’s MEB e-drive platform MEB.

With an optimized software interface, ZF’s new braking system can be integrated and networked even more easily into the electronic architecture of the vehicles.

The ZF system also supports driver assistance features such as automatic emergency braking. In addition, ZF’s solution replaces previously necessary mechanical components (such as the parking lock) with software functions, which saves both weight and costs.

«We meet the trend toward electromobility with our entire range of technological solutions – not just in driveline technology,» says Wolf-Henning Scheider, CEO of ZF Group. «This supply order from Volkswagen emphasizes how our competencies for braking systems as well as for networked systems contribute to increasing the range of our customers electric vehicles. To this end, our systems help to meet high comfort and safety requirements.»

On a technical level, ZF brake control is based on a combination of the company’s electronic brake booster (EBB) and its electronic stability control (ESC). The system is part of a software network housed in the stability control unit. It helps meet stringent safety standards set by the European road safety association EuroNCAP. New testing protocols for functions such as automatic emergency braking drive the need for more powerful boost to provide braking force even faster and more dynamically.

ZF Friedrichshafen AG
ZF is a global technology company and supplies systems for passenger cars, commercial vehicles and industrial technology, enabling the next generation of mobility. ZF allows vehicles to see, think and act. In the four technology domains Vehicle Motion Control, Integrated Safety, Automated Driving, and Electric Mobility, ZF offers comprehensive solutions for established vehicle manufacturers and newly emerging transport and mobility service providers. ZF electrifies different kinds of vehicles. With its products, the company contributes to reducing emissions and protecting the climate.

ZF, which acquired WABCO Holdings Inc. on May 29, 2020, now has 160,000 employees worldwide with approximately 260 locations in 41 countries. In 2019, the two then-independent companies achieved sales of €36.5 billion (ZF) and $3.4 billion (WABCO).

For further press information and photos please visit: www.zf.com

SOURCE ZF

Kia Rio Wins 2021 Vincentric Best Value in America Award

IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 21, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Kia Rio 5-Door has earned a 2021 Vincentric Best Value in America Award, ranking number one in the Subcompact Hatchback segment. A leading source of cost-of-ownership data and analysis within the automotive industry, Vincentric determined the winners by analyzing current market price and total cost of ownership for all 2021 model year vehicles.

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IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 21, 2021 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Kia Rio 5-Door has earned a 2021 Vincentric Best Value in America Award, ranking number one in the Subcompact Hatchback segment. A leading source of cost-of-ownership data and analysis within the automotive industry, Vincentric determined the winners by analyzing current market price and total cost of ownership for all 2021 model year vehicles.

Kia Rio wins 2021 Vincentric Best Value in America Award

«Kia’s transformation into a world-class car company has earned the brand significant accolades across its entire vehicle lineup, and this latest honor from Vincentric is further testament to Kia’s commitment to quality and value,» said Sean Yoon, president and CEO, Kia Motors America, Kia Motors North America. «We are proud to have a company like Vincentric recognize the Rio for its significance in a segment very important to many American families.»

The refreshed 2021 Kia Rio 5-Door is an attractive option for customers looking for stylish efficiency. Loaded with essential technology and convenience features like an 8-inch touchscreen color display with rear camera, LED headlights and automatic temperature control, the sporty subcompact offers a strong value proposition in a sophisticated yet space-efficient package.

«The Kia Rio had the lowest repair and depreciation costs of all Subcompact Hatchback vehicles,» said David Wurster, president, Vincentric. «These low costs helped the Rio outperform the competition for the 2021 Vincentric Best Value in America Awards and prove its strong value in the consumer market.»

About Kia Motors America

Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia Motors America continues to top quality surveys and is recognized as one of the 100 Best Global Brands. Kia serves as the «Official Automotive Partner» of the NBA and offers a complete range of vehicles sold through a network of more than 750 dealers in the U.S., including cars and SUVs proudly assembled in West Point, Georgia.*

For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com. To receive custom email notifications for press releases the moment they are published, subscribe at www.kiamedia.com/us/en/newsalert.

*The Telluride, Sorento and K5 are assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts.

Kia Motors America Logo

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SOURCE Kia Motors America