Toyota Trade Plus launched

NOW the latest award-winning Hilux and Proace are firmly established in the UK commercial market, the introduction of new Toyota Trade Plus and Toyota Authorised Converter programmes should help widen the focus of Toyota’s LCV range.

Announced to coincide with the 2017 Commercial Vehicle Show, at the NEC, Birmingham, these commercial programmes will offer both standard conversions and bespoke business solutions for more specific vehicle modification requirements.

The Toyota Trade Plus programme is what you’ll need if want popular ready-made conversions, delivered ready-to-go through the Toyota retailer network. The initial range will include a Tipper version of the Hilux, refrigerated versions of the Proace panel van and even just racking kits – all available to order alongside the standard model line-up.

As these conversion don’t have to be made through a third party, the logistics are simplified, saving time and cost. Peace of mind is also part of this programme, with conversion models included in Toyota’s five-year/100,000-mile manufacturer new vehicle warranty.

Toyota is reviewing additional opportunities based on the Proace platform cab, with a view to extending the range available on the Trade Plus programme over time. More information and prices for the conversions available will be announced at the CV show.

Customers and business users with more specialised needs, will be catered for by the new Toyota Authorised Converter Programme. The first of these partners will be announced on 25 April, following a rigorous quality audit assessment.

The long term plan is to establish a network of around 20 conversion specialists, with a good geographical spread, and to develop a product portfolio that can meet more specialised vehicle needs. Like the Trade Plus programme, vehicles supplied will benefit from a Toyota warranty covering the vehicle. Then, the converter will provide additional warranty cover for the conversion itself.

Gareth Matthews, Toyota LCV manager, said of these announcements: “Following on from our successful launch of Toyota ‘Back in Business’ at the 2016 CV show, our approach to returning to the market has involved all areas of the business.

“We have trained nearly 1,000 staff, appointed 25 specialist CV centres of excellence and created specific CV roles at head office. We are now in a position where we can respond quickly and professionally to meet individual customer needs. These new programmes further provide us with a more flexible and diverse product range.”

The Toyota stand at this year’s CV show has five vehicles on display, including key conversions: a Hilux Invincible X and Tipper, a refrigerated Proace, a Proace featuring Trade Plus racking and, making its UK debut, the Proace Verso MPV in VIP trim.