Toyota Announces 2003 Partial Zero Emission Vehicle Camry in California

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 2, 2003; Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. today announced it would begin sales of the 2003 Partial Zero Emission Vehicle (PZEV) Camry beginning in January. Most 2003 Toyota Camry vehicles equipped with four-cylinder engines and automatic transmissions sold in California will meet PZEV standards.

The PZEV Camry is the cleanest all-gasoline powered vehicle that a consumer can purchase and it complies with the State of California's Clean Air Initiative. The PZEV Camry meets the Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) standard for tailpipe exhaust emissions. In addition, PZEV Camrys emit virtually zero emissions from the vaporization of fuel in the gas tank and fuel system. Most vehicles, either idle or moving, emit some hydrocarbons which are a precursor to smog.

The PZEV Camry carries an emission warranty period of 15 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first. The PZEV Camry provides 151 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 161 lb-ft. torque at 4,000 rpm. It achieves EPA city/highway estimated fuel mileage ratings of 23/32 miles per gallon.

PZEV Camrys are distinguished by a leaf car sticker placed in the left rear quarter panel window. This is consistent with the current placement of the SULEV sticker on the Prius gasoline/electric hybrid.

The Toyota Camry was the best-selling passenger car in America in 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000 and is currently the best-selling car for 2002.