TMS - First Automaker To Complete CA ZEV MOA Commitment

Toyota Motor Sales USA Inc. (TMS, Torrance, CA) announced that it is the first automaker to complete its commitment under the State of California's zero-emission vehicle Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). Under the MOA, automakers must produce and deliver a specified number of advanced battery, zero-emission vehicles prior to 2003. Toyota committed to delivering 322 ZEVs. The company stated that it delivered 359 RAV4-EVs to customers during 1998, making it the best-selling electric vehicle in the country. The automaker stated that it has placed over 507 of the EVs in selected markets nationwide since its introduction in November 1997. Toyota chose a fleet sales strategy for the RAV4-EV, according to the firm, because it allows the company to continue product development and gather in-use information about range, performance and market acceptability.