Toyota Motor Corporation has announced the full commencement of operations at its newly established research and development facility, Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama, that aims to take a sustainable focus in developing the brand's new models.

Yes, it is that Shimoyama referenced on the badge adorning the GR Yaris/GR Corolla's G16E-GTS' engine block.

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The badge pays homage to the centre's main test track, characterised by its varying elevations that take after the natural topography of the village.

Though the main test course has been open since 2019 – cars like the current-gen Lexus IS, GR Yaris, GR Corolla, Toyota Prius, and more were honed there – it is a small bit of the greater 1,608 acres of land the entire facility encapsulates.

In fact, the 'Third Circuit' is one that aims to recreate actual countryside roads, with elevation changes of up to 75 metres (around 23 storeys!), dips, and switchbacks across its 5.3 km length. It's the first to be built ahead of the First and Second Circuits, which are a high-speed test course and specialised test track, respectively.

Today, the completion and full operation of the western area mark a significant milestone. This section includes new vehicle development and visitor facilities. The development building, emulating the look and feel of the Nürburgring, serves as a collaborative hub for Lexus and GR teams that enables refinement through on-site test driving and iterative improvements.

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Conversely, the visitor building fosters collaboration with business partners and suppliers, promoting innovation through interactive experiences with vehicles.

Hand-in-hand with nature

Environmental preservation was paramount during the center's construction, with approximately 60% of the site area dedicated to preserving original vegetation alongside newly developed green spaces.

In March 2023, the Environmental Learning Center in the eastern area was completed, promoting community engagement in environmental conservation initiatives, including events focused on the satoyama (Japanese for maintained greenery) concept, integral to the local ecosystem's sustainability.

Toyota reaffirms its dedication to environmental stewardship by collaborating with experts, local authorities, and community members to preserve the region's forests and rice fields, fostering coexistence with nature.

During the unveiling ceremony, Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda expressed gratitude for the extensive support received from various stakeholders and emphasised the facility's role in not only advancing automotive technology but also in enriching the local community.

He underscored the importance of coexistence with nature and reiterated Toyota's commitment to continuous improvement in vehicle quality and driving experience.

"Around 3,000 people, including development members and test drivers from GR and Lexus, will drive, break, and improve cars here. The more we drive and break cars, the ever-better they become. As a master driver myself, I'm looking forward to spending a lot of time driving around the roads of Shimoyama.

"The roads of Shimoyama make the car... Although it is not a production plant, Shimoyama-made cars will drive on every road in the world and bring smiles to many people's faces."

"We would like to express our gratitude for everyone's support and once more express Toyota's dedication to making ever-better cars, which will accelerate even more in Shimoyama. Thank you again for your cooperation throughout this project," he said.

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