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09 Apr 2012
Our associate's discussion with Michihiko Sato became a valuable moment to learn more about the All New Camry.
Carmall.com - Toyota All New Camry's arrival surely sparks some interest. How can it not, aside from it comes with a new engine format, A 2-AR with 2.500 cc capacity which use the Hybrid Synergy Drive. This then becomes the first technology ever applied by Toyota on their conventional line-up products which have been circulated before. Our interest in peeling one layer after another of the All New Camry was tackled by our colleague, Julian Kho from www.sgcarmart.com. One truly competent source of information is none other than the Camry Chief Engineer, Michihiko Sato.Taking place at the launch of All New Camryat Changi Exhibition Centre, Singapore, Julian and Michihiko were having aprivate session of discussing the refreshments given to this new member ofCamry family. Toyota also launches All New Camry 2.000 cc variant in Singapore. Julian : Mr Michihiko, thank you so much for allocating time to us for the interview. Now that the next generation Camry has arrived, how well do you think the sedan will stand out from its competitors such as the Nissan Teana and the Hyundai i45? Mr. Michihiko : We specifically came up with a design that targets the society who focuses on prestige and luxury. Moreover, based on the sales volume of our previous Camry, we are already in the lead in sales and premium products. But we had to give the current Camry an edge to move it up a notch to stay ahead of the competition. Hence the exterior, especially on the bonnet, has been tailored for a more magnificent and dynamic look.Julian :Apparently this new Camryonly been altered cosmetically. What about its technical specification? Mr. Michihiko : The new Camry is 40 kg lighter than its predecessorthus enhancing its aerodynamics and realizes better fuel consumption. In addition, both variants whether it's the hybrid or the 2.500 cc also have an improved flow of power. Julian : With the current trend in engine-downsizing, is there a possibility of switching to forced-induction in the future Camry?.Mr. Michihiko : Well, currently there is no certain point heading towards that matter. Though we will surely keep an eye on the market trend and strive to stay ahead of the game and separating us from our competitors. Julian : Talking about engine, why is the 2.0-litre Camry not equipped with a dual VVT-i engine? Mr. Michihiko : It is because the Camry 2.000 cc remains using its previous engine, which is the AZ type. Unlike the 2.500 cc which already adopted a new engine format. That is because we want to be in line with our marketing strategy which is to focus on the 2.5-litre Camry. Julian : Last but not least, Tn. Michihiko, as for 2.500 cc Toyota CamryHybrid, why not use a lithium-ion battery instead? And, why is it not located underneath the rear seats but you chose to put it in the boot space? Mr. Michihiko : Japan is facing insufficient supply of lithium-ion battery.As a result, we have decided to use a hydride battery instead. Answering your question about the battery location, for a hatchback it is better to put the battery underneath the rear seats, like the recently launched Prius C, thus resulting in a better efficiency for use of space. However, Camry is a sedan having the battery in the boot space would make more sense. Michihiko Sato is the chief engineer responsible for the development of the 7th generation Camry. Born on 26 January 1958, he graduated from the University of Kyoto in 1982. Mr Sato first joined Toyota Motor Corporation in 1982, where he was a member of the vehicle overall performance evaluation group. As the chief engineer of the All New Camry, Mr Michihiko Sato is now part ofthe Product Planning Group for other Toyota's products. |
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