Toyota launches hybrid-electric Century limousine

Toyota has redesigned its exclusive limousine, Century, with a 5.0-litre V8 hybrid electric powertrain and advanced safety technologies.

The first Century debuted in 1967, created to mark the 100th birthday of Sakichi Toyoda, founder of the Toyota Group. For more than 50 years, it has been Japan’s most popular chauffeur-driven luxury car.

Its new hybrid electric powertrain gives the iconic vehicle improved environmental performance, while the interior and exterior designs blend new elements with the car’s heritage look.

Century’s wheelbase has been increased by 65mm, creating even more spacious rear seat accommodation. The height difference between the scuff plate and the floor has been reduced by 15mm to ensure the floor mats lie perfectly flat and improve the ease of getting into and out of the car.

Century’s new 5.0-litre V8 hybrid electric system delivers a smooth, confident ride that a chauffeur car demands, together with better environmental performance. Under official Japanese test criteria, it achieves 38.4mpg.

Extensive noise-proofing measures have been put in place, including wide use sound-absorbing and insulating materials. An active noise control system also reduces noise and vibration levels at engine start-up and under acceleration.

The car is equipped with electronically controlled air suspension and Adaptive Variable Suspension.

The new Century is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, a Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

The Toyota Safety Sense package includes a Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control (with all-speed tracking) and Adaptive High-beam System. There are two additional new features: HELPNET®, an automatic emergency reporting system that activates when the car’s airbags are deployed; and D-Call Net®, which can make quick decisions to summon air or ground ambulances if vehicle data indicates a severe accident has happened.