Mumbai/Pune, 9th September 2023: Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today flagged off its second “Great 4X4 Expedition”, in the western region of India, kickstarting from the scenic hill station of Lonavala. This is the second leg of the 4X4 SUV experiential drive, after the resounding success of the first inaugural “Great 4X4 Expedition”, which concluded during the month of May 2023, held at Sakleshpur (Karnataka State).
Earlier in May 2023, TKM announced its first-ever initiative of 4×4 experiential drives for the motoring enthusiasts from across the country, set to be held in four zones (regional level – North, South, East and West). These drives have been designed to engage with country-wide 4×4 SUV community, offering the thrill of off-roading experiences. Through this initiative, TKM aspires to connect participants with their sense of adventure and inspire them to push boundaries, explore new horizons, and thereby delivering ‘Mass Happiness’ and providing ‘Mobility for All’.
This expedition will feature a convoy of SUVs including the proud owners of legendary Hilux, Fortuner 4×4, LC 300, and the Hyryder AWD (All Wheel Drive). Furthermore, the uniqueness of this experiential drive involves the participation of other SUV brand owners who will be a part of the first ever Great 4×4 Expedition organised by Toyota in India. Commencing from the Radisson Resort and Spa in Lonavala, the experiential drive routes will lead 4X4 fans to the enchanting Rajmachi waterfalls with an impressive line-up of 4X4 SUVs. As an integral component of this great expedition, TKM has meticulously designed a 4WD track with natural obstacles such as articulation, side inclines, rambler, deep ditches, slush, and rocky beds. These curated tracks guarantee an unparalleled off-roading experience that showcases the remarkable capabilities of the 4X4 vehicles. Needless to mention, with customer safety and security being the top priority at Toyota, necessary safety measures have been suitably planned & in place, and in addition the participants will be well guided by the 4X4 experts during the entire experiential drive.
Amidst the exciting drive, participants will engage in meaningful social activities with local school children, contributing positively to the community. Further, as a part of Toyota’s commitment to a more sustainable future, the company continues to make significant strides towards reducing the carbon footprint. In line with such carbon neutral goals, the event will also include a virtual tree plantation in collaboration with Sankalp Taru, an esteemed environmental preservation initiative. This collaborative effort reflects TKM’s resolute actions to foster a sense of responsibility towards the planet and its protection.
Marking the flag-off of the ‘Great 4×4 Expedition’ in western region of India, Mr. Atul Sood – Vice President, Sales and Strategic Marketing of Toyota Kirloskar Motor, stated, “The Toyota’s ‘Great 4X4 Expedition’ is an experience that encompasses camaraderie, adventure, and a profound bond with nature. This initiative brings together participants from diverse backgrounds, united by their passion for 4X4 vehicles. We extend our deepest gratitude to all the participants, and our wishes for an awesome drive filled with lasting memories and an exhilarating sense of adventure. Also, we would like to thank Idemitsu and Yokohama as our official Engine Oil and Tyre partner respectively, for partnering and supporting this project”.
Taking part in the second edition of ‘Great 4×4 Expedition by Toyota’, Mr. Vikram Gulati – Country Head and Executive Vice President of Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, ‘We are thrilled to provide participants with a truly unforgettable journey that connects them not only with their enthusiasm for 4X4s, but also with the environment and the community by engaging in meaningful social interventions. Along with the 4×4 participants, Toyota will conduct a road safety awareness program for the local school children (Madhyamik Vidyalaya Government School located at Waghoshi, Sudhagad-Raigad District) to sensitise them about the traffic rules, responsible and safe pedestrian behaviour, etc., thereby foster a culture of road safety.
In addition, as a part of Toyota’s continued eco-efforts, the company will undertake a tree plantation drive through a tie-up with an NGO Sankalptaru who will plant 1 tree each, on behalf of each of the participating members of the expedition, further ensuring the upkeeping of such trees planted. Thus, contributing to the conservation of natural biodiversity, he added”.
Being a part of Toyota’s motorsport engagement, this unique expedition continues to inspire more people to pursue their admiration for motorsports and experience the joy of driving 4×4. Stay tuned for the next ‘Great 4X4 Expedition by Toyota’, being planned in the northern region of India, during Sep 2023.
Towards this communication, the name of the drive/logo is ‘Great 4X4 Expedition by Toyota’*, as follows:
*NOTE: Please use the above ‘Great 4X4 Expedition by Toyota’ drive name/logo
Overview of TKM
Equity participation Toyota Motor Corporation (Japan) : 89%, Kirloskar Systems Limited (India) : 11%
Number of employees Approx. 6,000
Land area Approx. 432 acres (approx.1,700,000 m2)
Building area 74,000 m2
Total Installed Production capacity Up to 3,10,000 units
Overview of TKM 1st Plant:
Established October 1997 (start of production: December 1999)
Location Bidadi
Products Innova HyCross, Innova Crysta , Fortuner, Legender manufactured in India.
Installed Production capacity Up to 1,00,000 units
Overview of TKM 2nd Plant:
Start of Production December 2010
Location On the site of Toyota Kirloskar Motor Private Limited, Bidadi
Products Camry Hybrid, Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Hilux
Installed Production capacity Up to 2,10,000 units
*Other Toyota Models: Glanza, Rumion
**Imported as CBU: Vellfire, LC 300
