Toyota New Zealand has marked a significant milestone in its environmental journey with the release of its 2024 Sustainability Report at the end of the last year, bringing together influential voices from media, science, and community sectors to discuss the pressing issue of climate change.
Leading the charge was renowned broadcaster Paddy Gower, who shared his transformative journey from climate skeptic to passionate advocate following an eye-opening expedition to Antarctica. The event featured an impressive line-up including Toyota Vice President Suzanne Hardy, Toyota Financial Services’ Brett Knight, Ebbett Toyota’s Tony Coutinho, and celebrated scientist Michelle “Nanogirl” Dickinson.
In essence, the automotive giant aims to slash greenhouse gas emissions by 46 percent by 2030, with a particular focus on reducing tailpipe emissions from vehicle sales. But it goes deeper than that.
In a significant achievement, Toyota NZ reported that over 55 percent of its new vehicle sales in 2024 were electrified models, marking substantial progress toward its 2030 environmental targets. The company’s commitment to sustainability is further demonstrated by the (arguably) successful launch of its first all-electric vehicle, the bZ4X SUV, in the New Zealand market, signaling the beginning of an expanded electric vehicle lineup.
Toyota GAZOO Racing New Zealand (TGRNZ) is leading the charge in sustainable motorsport too, implementing carbon- neutral fuel across its racing operations. The organisation has successfully tested and implemented this innovative fuel solution in both the Castrol Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Championship and Toyota 86 Championship, with no significant impact on performance or reliability.
The company’s commitment extends beyond environmental initiatives to community engagement, maintaining partnerships with over 60 stores nationwide and supporting various grassroots sports programs. A standout initiative is the Waka Aronui programme, which provides affordable hybrid vehicles to South Auckland families, demonstrating Toyota’s commitment to making sustainable transportation accessible.
In a notable collaboration, broadcaster Paddy Gower has partnered with Toyota to showcase the company’s commitment to sustainability. Gower is currently undertaking a cross-country journey in an all-electric Toyota bZ4X, combining his personal advocacy for climate change awareness with practical demonstration of electric vehicle capability His involvement was inspired by a transformative trip to Antarctica, where he witnessed firsthand the impacts of climate change.
Toyota NZ’s comprehensive approach to sustainability includes practical initiatives such as battery and tire recycling programs, alongside an innovative bumper recycling trial. These operational improvements, combined with the company’s strategic focus on fleet transformation and emission reduction, position Toyota NZ as a leader in automotive sustainability within the New Zealand market.
We look forward to hearing what this progressive brand gets up to in 2025!
