The tour has already kicked off January 11 this year at the San Jose international Auto Show and will continue to travel to more than 150 events throughout the country for the next 18 months. Consumers are to be given the chance to test Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive system and at the same time be educated on the hybrid technology through the various interactive educational exhibits and test drives.

According to Celeste Migliore, Toyota's National Manager for Advanced Technology Vehicles, "Most people have heard of hybrid technology and probably have a vague idea of how it works, but few have actually driven a hybrid and or taken an up-close look at its operation. This tour allows consumers to learn more about the technology behind this system and the benefits of hybrid vehicles."

Toyota, maker of the high quality Toyota outer tie rod will also allow attendees the opportunity to test drive some of their hybrid vehicles such as the Prius, Camry Hybrid and Highlander. Aside from the test drives there will also be distinct interactive learning areas within the exhibit such as the following:

*"Alternative Fuels: Fueling the Future," identifies the differences in the various types of alternative fuels and how they are produced.
*"Environment and Resources: Small Steps, Big Difference," shows attendees what they can do to make a difference to the environment.
*"The Prius Driving Experience" simulates the current Hybrid Synergy Drive technology allowing visitors to interact with system while on screen instructions offer driving tips.
*"Hybrid Technology: Not All Hybrids are Created Equal" exhibit gives visitors a better understanding of the various hybrid technology options on the market and how hybrids benefit the consumer and the environment.

The tour will not only be educational but will also benefit the environment since Toyota will plant more than 50,000 trees as tribute to those who will join the tour and also in connection with the National Arbor Day Foundation. The trees will also help in offsetting the carbon footprint of the trucks transporting the tour while it goes around the country.

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. is the marketing, sales, distribution and customer service arm of Toyota, Lexus and Scion in the United States, marketing products and services through a network of 1,427 Toyota, Lexus and Scion dealers in 49 states.