Toyota Indiana Celebrates First-Ever Grand Highlander
Toyota Indiana today celebrated the start of production of the first-ever Grand Highlander, an all-new three-row SUV. In 2021, Toyota announced an $803 million investment in Indiana to produce two all-new SUVs. The 2024 Grand Highlander features the latest technology, a spacious, adult-sized third row, and ample cargo space for family adventures.
Community Investment
Alongside the production launch, Toyota announced a five-year, multimillion-dollar commitment to support Indiana schools through the Toyota USA Foundation’s Driving Possibilities initiative. Grants of up to $11.1 million will prepare students for future STEM careers by focusing on PreK-12 education. Initial funds will be distributed through:
- Evansville-Vanderburgh School Corporation
- North Gibson School Corporation
- Building Blocks
- Youth First Inc.
These grants will provide access to quality PreK education, student mental health resources, multi-language learning, and hands-on STEM programs for students and teachers.
About Driving Possibilities
Driving Possibilities is a $110 million national initiative launched in 2022 to prepare youth for future careers through PreK-12 education. It is the largest and most comprehensive program in Toyota’s history, funded by the Toyota USA Foundation, Toyota Motor North America (TMNA), and Toyota Financial Services (TFS). The initiative collaborates with educators, nonprofits, and communities to create opportunities for all students.
“Our goal is to increase awareness of future STEM careers while building sustainable programs in the communities where our team members live and work,” said Tellis Bethel, group vice president of social innovation at Toyota. “The expansion of Driving Possibilities near our Indiana plant includes up to $4.2 million in the first year, with more to come.”
Company Overview
Toyota (NYSE: TM) has been part of the U.S. cultural fabric for over 65 years, advancing sustainable mobility through its Toyota and Lexus brands and nearly 1,500 dealerships. The company directly employs more than 49,000 people in the U.S. and has assembled over 33 million vehicles at its nine manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 10th plant in North Carolina will begin producing automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. Toyota currently offers 24 electrified vehicle options.
To inspire the next generation in STEM and mobility careers, Toyota launched a virtual education hub at www.TourToyota.com, featuring immersive experiences and virtual tours of its U.S. manufacturing facilities.