Toyota Motor North America continues to demonstrate its dedication to vehicle safety and innovation by introducing two new features: Automatic Engine Shut Off and Automatic Park. These advancements, rolling out starting with most Model Year 2020 vehicles, are designed to provide an added layer of security and convenience for drivers, reinforcing Toyota’s commitment to continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.
Automatic Engine Shut Off: Enhanced Safety and Peace of Mind
The Automatic Engine Shut Off feature, also referred to as “Auto Shut Off,” is a significant enhancement to Toyota’s Smart Key System. This system is designed to automatically turn off the vehicle’s engine after a predetermined period if the vehicle is left running unintentionally. This is particularly relevant in situations where a driver might accidentally leave their car running, potentially in an enclosed space, leading to safety concerns.
Toyota’s enhanced system provides both audible and visual warnings to alert the driver if the engine is running and needs to be turned off. Building upon the two-step alert system that Toyota has incorporated since the introduction of its Smart Key System in 2003, the new Automatic Engine Shut Off adds an extra layer of protection. Future developments for this feature include smartphone app integration, offering yet another reminder for drivers and further enhancing the functionality and user experience of the automatic engine system. This proactive approach to vehicle safety underscores Toyota’s dedication to incorporating cutting-edge technology for the benefit of its customers.
Automatic Park: Mitigating Roll-Away Risk
In addition to Automatic Engine Shut Off, Toyota is also phasing in the Automatic Park feature, starting with Model Year 2020 vehicles. This system is engineered to minimize the risk of vehicle roll-away incidents. Automatic Park is implemented in vehicles equipped with electronic shifting mechanisms and/or electronic parking brakes. If a driver exits the vehicle without properly placing it in “Park,” this intelligent system will automatically shift the vehicle into the “Park” position and/or engage the electronic parking brake.
While current Toyota vehicles already include audible and visual warnings to remind drivers to put their car in park, and non-traditional shifters include a separate “P” button to reduce confusion, Automatic Park provides an active safety measure. This feature is a testament to Toyota’s proactive approach to safety, going beyond warnings to actively prevent potential hazards.
Toyota’s Leadership in Automotive Innovation and Safety
Toyota has long been recognized as a leader in automotive technology and safety. The company’s pioneering approach includes making advanced safety systems standard across its vehicle lineup. For instance, Toyota’s decision to include Toyota Safety Sense and Lexus Safety System+ packages with automatic emergency braking as standard features reflects a core belief in democratizing safety technology and enhancing customer well-being. With millions of vehicles on roads today equipped with these systems, Toyota continues to prioritize customer satisfaction and safety through relentless innovation. The introduction of Automatic Engine Shut Off and Automatic Park further exemplifies this commitment, providing drivers with added confidence and security on every journey.
