News

Toyota using kiosks, plasma screens to market newest vehicle

January 2, 2003

LOS ANGELES -- Toyota is equipping showrooms for its newest vehicle, the Scion, with Internet kiosks and plasma screens in an effort to draw a younger generation.

The cars -- set to debut in California in June for a sticker price of under $16,000 -- are made to be highly customizable, according to The Associated Press. That feature is desired by "Generation Y" buyers, Toyota claims.

The cars will come standard with air conditioning, antilock brakes, power steering and sports seats. Buyers can customize the cars at Internet kiosks at the dealership, choosing to boost audio options, order fog lights or upgrade to fancier wheel covers.

The showrooms will also be unique, Toyota said, featuring a 50-inch plasma screen, a "discovery zone," with Internet kiosks, and a "consultation space," where buyers can talk to sales staff.

The car will make its way to dealerships across the country by 2004, according to the AP.