Toyota demonstrates 20 year commitment to fuel cell R&D through new FCV concept

WASHINGTON--Jan. 22, 2014: Washington, it's time to save your energy and put it towards staying warm this winter! Toyota's bringing its fuel cell-powered concept to the East Coast. Following a trip through Consumer Electronics Show (CES) and the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) earlier this month, the glowing, ocean-blue sedan that many are calling the car of the future is geared to make a big splash at this year's Washington Auto Show.

For the past 20 years, Toyota has massively committed to fuel cell research and design and aims to lead the charge in environmental change in the auto industry this year. "Savvy consumers have been waiting to see an active change in fuel cell development, and we're almost ready to hit the streets," said Toyota's Vice President of North American Business Strategy Nihar Patel. "There's an enormous amount of education to be done as we let the public know more about this exciting technology." In case you missed the CES buzz, Nihar will be leading a press conference at the Toyota booth on Jan. 22 at 9:40 a.m. to fill you in on its accelerated goals for fuel cell technology in its cars in the next two years.

Attendees can see the newest concept at Toyota's booth, as well as the three-wheeler iROAD concept that wowed auto enthusiasts at last year's Geneva Auto Show. Show goers interested in leaning into each turn in the iROAD will have a chance to see it in action.

Toyota also will be showing off its brand new 2014 Highlander, which offers more style, comfort and utility than ever before – a great family vehicle with a trunk big enough to hold whatever the adventurous type needs to carry around. The Highlander is joined by other new models including the 2014 Corolla and a full cut-away of the 2014 Tundra.

Toyota's responsible in more ways than just the environment: The company is fully committed to its TeenDrive365 program (TeenDrive365), a driving safety platform to help families navigate the critical first year of a teen's independent driving. Toyota will have its 3D driving simulator available for attending parents and teens to experience, as well as more information about the program and how they can get involved. Designed to amplify the teen driving programs and resources Toyota has offered for over a decade, the initiative aims to help foster an ongoing dialogue between parents and teens through engaging online tools, expert advice and tips, local events and social media.

Toyota will have 44 different cars, trucks and SUVs on display at this year's Washington Auto Show. Product specialists and Toyota's environmental executives will be on hand for more information, so be sure to find your way through the crowd – look for the glowing blue car.