Ontario Chosen for New Electric Vehicle Production

Press Release Source: Ministry of Economic Development and Trade On Wednesday August 10, 2011, 7:00 am EDT

TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Ontario, Canada took another step today toward the plan to become a world-leading clean energy and manufacturing economy. Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada announced that the company plans to start assembling electric versions of its RAV4 sport utility vehicle in Woodstock, Ontario under a partnership with California-based Tesla Motors. The RAV4 EV will be the first electric vehicle built in Canada.

The Province of Ontario, in partnership with the Government of Canada, will support the production of the RAV4 EV through their investment in Toyota's recently announced Project Green Light. The total investment among all partners could reach $545 million, with Ontario and the Government of Canada each providing $70.8 million towards Project Green Light.

QUOTES

"We worked hard to become North America's number one producer of cars. To stay on top, we need to produce the next generation of cars that use clean technology."

–?Dalton McGuinty
Premier of Ontario

"Toyota's decision to produce the RAV4 EV in Woodstock is one more positive result of our investment in green technology. Ontario will benefit by taking a leading role in the production of the next generation of green vehicles."

–?Sandra Pupatello
Minister of Economic Development and Trade

"We're turning a new chapter in our history and into the future. TMMC will lead the way by building the new RAV4 EV. Being involved with leading edge technology is a great opportunity to motivate and develop our people. This is an excellent example of Toyota's determination to collaborate with companies with innovative technology."

–?Ray Tanguay
Chairman of Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada

QUICK FACTS

Ontario and the Government of Canada are each providing $70.8 million towards Project Green Light. The total investment from all partners in could reach $545 million. The auto industry supports approximately 400,000 jobs across the Ontario. Ontario builds more cars than any other state or province in North America.

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UK car production up in February

17 March 2011 Last updated at 10:00 GMT The SMMT said 111,983 cars were produced in the UK in February UK car production rose 15.1% in February from a year ago, as export-led growth continued.

There was also a 10.2% rise in engine output, according to figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive, said there had been a 27% increase in exports, which "highlights the strength and competitiveness of UK products".

He warned that next week's Budget must support the industry, not damage it.

The Budget "will be crucial in creating the conditions for further investment in skills, R&D and capital equipment, all essential for growth and maintaining global competitiveness," he said.

February's rise in car output means production over the first two months of the year is now up 12% on 2010.

The SMMT said commercial vehicle production was down 3% in February, but for the first two months of 2011 was up 2.6%.

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