TMEC, while taking into consideration environmental and safety issues, aims to tailor vehicles to the demands of Chinese consumers. Toyota says that the company will enhance its ability to conduct market-environment research and R&D in China and supplements the activities of TMC’s existing R&D centers at its Chinese joint-venture companies.

In addition to close cooperation and joint research with TMC’s R&D centers in Japan, TMEC will 1) survey how vehicles are used in China and reflect results in product planning; 2) thoroughly verify the quality of vehicles introduced into the China market; 3) investigate and research energy-saving and alternative-energy vehicles in China; 4) develop engines for the Chinese market; and 5) train personnel capable of achieving each of the above.