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03-Nov-2010

Brisbane stalwart wins Toyota's top award

One of Queensland's most successful automotive dealership groups has shown that experience improves the breed, winning the top award from Toyota Australia for an impressive eleventh time.

Sci-Fleet Toyota was presented with the Toyota President's Award for Excellence, the highest honour for a dealer.

The group, which began operating in the early 1970s and now has Toyota dealerships at Kedron, Albion and Taringa, has seen the Japanese brand grow into the world's biggest car company and the market leader in Australia.

Toyota Australia's executive director of sales and marketing Matthew Gallachor presented dealer principal Andrew Scifleet with the President's Award at a special ceremony in the dealership.

Mr Gallachor said Award recipients stood head and shoulders above the rest of the industry for their highly skilled people, accurate customer data and cutting-edge systems.

"Sci-Fleet Toyota is an outstanding dealership that deserves respect and recognition for its achievements," Mr Gallachor said.

"Winning for the eleventh time is remarkable and demonstrates that Andrew and his people continually strive to evolve and improve their processes for the benefit of their customers.

"They also play a significant role in the community, sponsoring many organisations including sporting clubs such as the Brisbane Broncos and Norths Devils, schools such as Brisbane Boys College and community groups such as Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors Worldwide."

Mr Callachor thanked customers for their loyalty and said Toyota was striving to do even better to continue to earn and deserve their loyalty.

Toyota's regional manager Sean Hanley said Sci-Fleet Toyota's success came from its innovations as well as industry-leading processes and systems.

"The support of customers has enabled Toyota to continue as the market leader in Queensland with 2009 sales higher than the combined totals of its two nearest rivals," Mr Hanley said.

"Last year, Toyota's Queensland dealers sold 19,000 passenger cars, more than one out of every four SUVs and 30 per cent of all light-commercial vehicles," he said.

"So far this year, Toyota's Queensland sales are up by 14.7 per cent and HiLux is once again the State's best-selling car."

In Australia, Toyota has now sold more than five million vehicles and is the best-selling vehicle brand and the country's leading automotive exporter.

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News & Events

• Hilux is Australia's most popular car 09-May-2012
  

  Toyota's popular Hilux has grabbed the crown as Australia's best-selling car with an emphatic victory revealed by sales figures released recently.

  A total of 3,565 customers bought a HiLux in April, marking a return to normal supplies of the popular workhorse following shortages caused by natural disasters in Japan and Thailand.

  The victory margin of well over 500 vehicles placed HiLux more than 18.6 per cent ahead of any other vehicle on the local sales chart.

  It is the sixth time HiLux has been the top-selling vehicle in Australia – and it is the only ute to have achieved this landmark. HiLux led a strong Toyota result in April with the brand cementing market leadership with 16,568 deliveries – more than 8,800 ahead of its nearest rival.

  Toyota outsold the combined totals of its nearest two competitors, bringing its 2012 sales tally to 63,945 vehicles – an overall lead of more than 27,000. In addition to HiLux 4x2 and 4x4, Toyota vehicles that led their segments were Yaris, Camry, LandCruiser Prado, LandCruiser 200 Series and HiAce bus.

  Prado moved into the national top 10 (seventh) with 1,725 deliveries, joining HiLux (first), Corolla (third) and Camry (eighth). Prius c debuted with 405 sales.

  Toyota Australia's executive director sales and marketing Matthew Callachor said HiLux was the most desirable vehicle of its type and had the highest awareness among people looking to buy a 4x2 or 4x4 ute.

  “Consumers rate HiLux above any other vehicle for its off-roading capability and other attributes, including performance, lifestyle and value,” Mr Callachor said.

  “Almost one in two HiLux buyers already own a Toyota while more than half say they are likely to choose another Toyota for their next vehicle,” he said.

  Toyota has been market leader for 83 of the past 85 months – a run broken only by production disruptions caused by last year's Japan tsunami.

  Click here to find out what makes the Hilux Australia's number 1.

• Second generation Aurion sets new standards 09-May-2012
  

  The launch of 3.5-litre V6 quad cam Toyota Aurion has completed the roll-out of Toyota's portfolio of new locally made models.

  The substantially upgraded five-model Aurion range has been capped at a price beneath $50,000#. It is Toyota's locally made flagship and is being promoted as an attainable luxury car.

  Aurion's distinctive styling and occupant comfort levels provide clear differentiation. Second generation Aurion is the most powerful Toyota made in Australia. It generates 200kW at 6200rpm on 91 octane fuel.

  Aurion delivers the best fuel economy in the 3.5-litre class in the large passenger segment - six per cent better than the first generation*. Tailpipe emissions have been reduced by eight per cent*.

  Aurion is lighter and slightly larger than the vehicle it replaces. It incorporates technology advances in drivetrain and active and passive safety strategies which have only recently been developed.

  Aurion, like its locally made stablemates, benefits from new computer numeric control (CNC) machines at Australia's Altona plant which allow even more precise manufacturing techniques.

  Panel fit in many instances has been reduced from tolerances of 5mm to just 3.5mm - the domain of a very few true luxury cars.

  Interior quietness will be a hallmark of second generation Aurion. The articulation index of interior audibility has been improved by more than 10 per cent.

  Ride and handling has been improved in all areas as a result of extensive local testing and development.

  User-friendly modifications have been made in many small but important ways. The centre console storage area is longer, and the boot loading lip is lower to the ground for easier loading.

  Interior dimensions have been increased to provide even more legroom, and in particular, greater headroom for rear seat occupants.Seats have increased in size while being made even more supportive.

  Toyota has sought to refine its value proposition to Aurion buyers. As well as capping Aurion's recommended retail price beneath $50,000, it has further improved its popular capped price logbook servicing proposition to four years/75,000km (whichever occurs first) up to the first five service periods^.

  "Aurion has become a favourite amongst experienced motorists," Toyota's executive director sales and marketing Matthew Callachor said. "Since its launch in 2006 Aurion has become something of a hallmark for private buyers who do not see the need to enter the market above the luxury car tax threshold, but who still want distinctive luxury features.

  "Toyota's goal with second generation Aurion was to even better meet those requirements. There will not be a current generation Aurion owner who will not appreciate the improvements in the new vehicle and who won't be tempted to trade-up."

  Mr Callachor described second generation Aurion as an expansionary vehicle. "Styling, technical and manufacturing improvements all point to Aurion expanding its market appeal," he said. "There is a strong market for a powerful prestige vehicle. Aurion is rightly, and discretely, earning a reputation as a vehicle of quality. Second generation Aurion will enhance that position."

  Owners can choose to emphasis the sporty lines of their Aurion with optional Toyota Genuine Accessories, including 17-inch alloy wheels, body side mouldings with chrome and a rear spoiler lip.

  Click here to book a test drive today!

  #Recommended retail prices exclude dealer delivery, government and statutory charges and optional extras.

  *Fuel consumption and emissions will vary depending on driving conditions/style, vehicle conditions and options/accessories.

  ^Excludes government and rental vehicles. Contact your Toyota Dealer or go to Toyota.com.au/advantage for other exclusions and eligibility.

  .
• Toyota 86 gains international awards 09-May-2012
  

  Toyota has succeeded in its aim of recapturing the classic sports car experience in its new 86, according to the expert judges of the 2012 Vehicle Dynamics International Awards.

  The global panel of specialist engineers, technologists and journalists have named the sports coupe Car of the Year (jointly with the Subaru BRZ) and honoured its chief engineer Tetsuya Tada as Dynamicist of the Year, alongside Toshio Masuda, his Subaru counterpart on the project.

  Toyota's commitment to producing cars that are more rewarding to drive, championed by its president Akio Toyoda, has also earned it the accolade of Dynamics Team of the Year.

  The Toyota 86 arrives in Australia next month as a standard bearer for a revival of Toyota's sports car heritage, a machine that has been designed in every aspect to be a true driver's car.

  Its character is determined by its classic front-engine/rear-wheel drive configuration and the use of a compact, lightweight, free-revving 2.0-litre “boxer” petrol engine. Combined with a low centre of gravity, low inertia and overall light weight, the result is pure driving pleasure.

  Vehicle Dynamics International magazine’s editor Graham Heeps said this simple approach helped earn 86 its Car of the Year status.

  “In the face of rising power outputs and ever-greater levels of complication in the drivetrain, suspension and steering, cars from major manufacturers that take a less-is-more approach and offer fun at legal speeds have been thin on the ground,” he said.

  Among the judges' comments on the Dynamicist of the Year title, Matt Joy, the Press Association's motoring editor, said: “By sticking to a tried and tested formula, Tada and Masuda have created a car that enthusiasts have been crying out for one that eschews the never-ending quest for ultimate grip in favour of balance, response and driving pleasure at realistic road speeds.”

  The judging panel gave much credit to Akio Toyoda for inspiring a new direction in dynamics in both Toyota and Lexus models. Phil Morse from the USA said: “A quick look at Toyota's vehicle line-up should remove any doubt that there is a fierce competitor in the company driver's seat, and that the tenets of motorsports – superior technology and the enjoyment of driving – serve as his guiding light.”

  Click here to register your interest in the 86.

• Sci-Fleet Hino wins top honour 26-Apr-2012
  

  Sci-Fleet Hino won it's first National Metropolitan Dealer of the Year Award at the annual Hino Dealer of the Year Awards held recently.

  The award was accepted by Sci-Fleet Dealer Principal Craig Andersson, and presented by President and Chief Operating Officer of Hino Australia Steve Lotter at the official gala awards dinner in Sydney on Friday, April 20 2012.

  Congratulations to the entire Hino division on what was our most successful awards night on record also winning the following awards:

  - National Metropolitan Dealer of the Year
  - National Metropolitan Gold Sales Award
  - National Metropolitan Silver Parts Award
  - Highest Volume Medium Duty Truck Sales
  - Highest Volume in Bus Sales

  These awards are a reflection on the contribution made by all the members of the Hino team and shows how over time with diligence and persistence what can be achieved.

• Hilux stock arrivals back to normal 10-Apr-2012
  

  Hilux has resumed its best-seller status with stock arrivals back to normal for the first time since last year's Thailand floods halted production.

  Hilux 4x2 and 4x4 were the top-selling vehicles in their respective segments last month with combined sales of more than 3,500 vehicles.

  This was more than three times the January total, well above twice the December figure and up 57 per cent compared with February.

  In fact, March was the best month for Hilux since the same month in 2011 when Japan was hit by a deadly tsunami that also disrupted Hilux production.

  With shipments now back to normal levels, the resurgent Hilux helped lift Toyota Australia's overall total sales in March to 18461 vehicles - 81 per cent more than its nearest rival.

  Camry sales, including the new-generation petrol and hybrid models – were up by 42.8 per cent over the same month last year.

  Other double-digit percentage improvers compared with March 2011 were FJ Cruiser, Prius, Yaris and Landcruiser 200 Series .

  Landcruiser 200 Series recorded a March-on-March sales increase of 37.8 per cent.

  Toyota Australia's executive vice president David Buttner said Toyota and its dealers were working overtime to get the popular HiLux to customers as quickly as possible.

  “We understand the importance of Hilux to businesses and to individual customers, whether it's being bought for workhorse or family duties, or both,” Mr Buttner said.

  “I would like to thank all our Hilux customers for their understanding and patience as well as the remarkable loyalty they have shown,” Mr Buttner said.

• Sci-Fleet goes blue for autism 10-Apr-2012
  

  Earlier this month Sci-Fleet participated in Go Blue for Autism, a day aimed to raise awareness and funds for people living with Autism and their families. Led by our parts manager Lindsay Harm, the company was painted blue for the day.

  On World Autism Awareness Day, iconic buildings across Australia and the world turned their lights blue for the entire month of April to promote Autism awareness.

  What is Autism?

  
  

  Autism is a complex, lifelong disability. People with Autism share the core features of social and communication difficulties, narrow interests and repetitive behaviours.

  Autism is often referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), an umbrella term that encompasses a number of conditions including Autistic Disorder, Asperger Syndrome and Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS).

  People on the Autism Spectrum experience:

  - Challenges in communicating and interacting with others,
  - Thinking in a flexible way,
  - Processing information from their senses and
  - Adapting their behaviours to what can seem incredibly confusing and frustrating situations.

  Despite having difficulties in these same core areas, no two people with Autism are the same.

  People on the Autism spectrum may also have a significant intellectual impairment while others may have average or above average intelligence. Some may have little or no verbal language skills through to those who are highly verbal yet still have difficulty using these language skills socially.

  While it is a lifelong disability, people with Autism can learn and develop when provided with appropriate supports.

  For more information about this fantastic cause, visit www.autismqld.com.au/goblueforautism.

• Sci-Fleet wins big at Toyota's night of nights 10-Apr-2012
  

  Recently Toyota held their Annual Awards Night and for the 8th time in Sci-Fleet Toyota’s history we were awarded Toyota Northern Region Metropolitan Dealer of the year.

  Sci-Fleet Toyota had a very successful night winning the following awards:

  - Metropolitan Dealer of the Year (8th time)
  - Toyota Fleet Management Dealer of the Year
  - Silver Business Management Excellence
  - Bronze Knight Award
  - Bronze Service Excellence
  - Bronze Parts Excellence
  - Bronze Customer First Award for Excellence
  - Top 20 Award (No.1 in both Passenger and Commercial and No.1 overall for the 13th year in a row)
  - Club CS Award

  These awards can only be achieved with significant dedication and commitment and are a credit to all of our staff as they represent both successful individual departments as well as the entire dealership on a combined basis.

  We have set very high standards and moving forward will continue to aspire to maintain and improve upon these standards.

• New heart for Landcruiser 200 20-Mar-2012
  

  A new V8 petrol engine, advanced off-road technology and updates to styling and equipment extend LandCruiser 200 wagon reputation as "king off the road".

  Toyota's iconic LandCruiser 200 wagon has received a heart transplant with the introduction of a more powerful and more efficient V8 petrol engine.

  LandCruiser's new 4.6-litre V8 features variable valve timing on both the inlet and exhaust ports, lifting power and torque while improving fuel economy and lowering emissions.

  The new V8 leads a series of improvements to the LandCruiser 200, which remains true to its off-road heritage with uncompromising, go-anywhere capability.

  LandCruiser, the top-selling vehicle in its class for decades, gains new and updated equipment for 2012 that adds to its looks, performance and customer appeal.

  Off-road technology has advanced across the range with a new multi-terrain anti-skid braking system that detects and automatically adapts to off-road conditions, supplementing the standard vehicle stability control and active traction control.

  The two top grades, LandCruiser VX and Sahara, gain Multi-Terrain Select that regulates wheel-spin in tough off-road conditions with five driver-selectable modes: rock, rock and dirt, mogul, loose rock, mud and sand.

  Top-of-the-range Sahara adds to LandCruiser's reputation as "king off the road" with Multi-Terrain Monitor, utilising four wide-angle cameras for checking "blind" spots and revealing terrain hazards and apexes that are normally hidden from the driver's view.

  Other LandCruiser Sahara features include air-conditioned front seats, upgraded navigation system, power-operated tailgate, and three-position memory for the power driver's seat, steering wheel and exterior mirrors.

  All grades feature fresh exterior styling, including a new front mask with revised bumpers and grilles, and interior upgrades incorporating the latest audio systems.

  Landcruiser's new V8 petrol engine is fitted with an acoustic control induction system that enhances performance at high engine speeds and improves torque lower in the rev range.

  Engine capacity is reduced by 56cm3 to 4608cm3, yet power increases by 12.9 per cent to 228kW at 5500rpm and torque by 7.1 per cent to 439Nm at 3500rpm.

  To help reduce cold-start emissions, a new single-pump air injection system speeds the warming of the catalysts by inducting air through the exhaust ports.

  Fuel economy has improved by 6.2 per cent to 13.6 litres/100km while CO2 emissions are down by 8.2 per cent to 313 grams/km*.

  Designated 1UR-FE, the new engine has a six-speed automatic transmission instead of the five-speed in the previous petrol engine.

  This is the same AB60F six-speed unit fitted to 4.5-litre twin-turbo diesel LandCruiser 200 variants. The final gear ratio is taller in the petrol models (4.300:1 v 3.909).

  The transmission has artificial intelligence control, which allows its computers to select the appropriate gear ratio by estimating road conditions and predicting the driver's intention.

  LandCruiser 200 GXL, VX and Sahara customers can choose between the new petrol engine and Toyota's 195kW/650Nm 4.5-litre V8 twin-turbo common-rail diesel engine. The GX grade is offered with the diesel engine.

  All LandCruiser 200 variants now have 138-litre fuel-tank capacity with 93-litre main and 45-litre sub tanks.

  The latest LandCruiser range has nine exterior colours with the addition of shimmer (metallic silver) and black mica. There are three interior trim colours - grey, black and shell beige.

  LandCruiser has evolved over time, from a basic four-wheel drive utility vehicle in its early years to an upscale eight-passenger SUV now sold in 188 countries.

  Want to know more? Click here for more specifications or simply send us an enquiry to speak to one of our knowledgable sales staff.

  * Fuel consumption and emissions data will vary depending on driving conditions/style, vehicle conditions and options/accessories. Source of fuel consumption data: ADR 81/02 combined cycle.

• Supporting QPAC Out of the Box Festival 2012 06-Mar-2012
  

  Sci-Fleet is once again proud to support the QPAC 2012 Out of the Box Festival by supplying numerous vehicles to be used throughout the duration of the event.

  Marking 20 years since the first instalment, the 2012 Out of the Box Festival will run from 12 -17 June and offers 90 free events, 70 in-theatre performances and more than 120 workshops. It will feature a program of events for children 8 and under, both ticketed and free including theatre performances, an interactive workshop program and a number of free outdoor events for families.

  WHEN: Tuesday 12 - Sunday 17 June 2012

  WHERE: QPAC and Cultural Centre, South Bank

  BOOKINGS: Tickets on sale Monday 26 March 9:00am so for more information and booking details visit www.outoftheboxfestival.com.au

• Smart, stylish and affordable: New Prius c 20-Feb-2012
  

  Toyota has combined dynamic styling with clever engineering to deliver Australia's most affordable hybrid car and the best fuel economy in the city for any petrol or diesel car.

  The new Prius c - compact and dynamic with a fun and youthful attitude - brings hybrid technology to the market from $23,990*, or $6,000 less than any other hybrid vehicle.

  Inheriting a family resemblance from Prius, the world's premier eco brand, Prius c exhibits a unique personality designed to attract an entirely new audience of singles, couples and young families.

  Toyota now offers three hybrid cars in Australia, with Prius c joining the flagship Prius and the locally manufactured Camry Hybrid.

  The new car's hybrid system, derived from Prius, delivers maximum output of 74kW from the combination of a highly efficient 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, a battery-powered electric motor and an electronic automatic transmission with infinitely variable ratios.

  In city traffic, where Prius c is expected to spend most of its life, it is the new fuel-economy champion for vehicles that do not require a power socket for charging.

  The proven hybrid system returns just 3.7 litres/100km** on the city cycle - even better than Prius - and 3.9 litres/100km on the combined cycle with CO2 emissions of 90 grams/km**.

  Clever downsizing and packaging of major components has resulted in a car that is shorter, lower and narrower than Prius, yet still has ample space for five adults and their luggage.

  Prius c is also up to 285kg lighter than Prius and - in a Toyota first - the hybrid battery and fuel tank are placed under the rear seat, ensuring more head clearance than in Corolla sedan, more luggage space and allowing for a full-size spare wheel.

  Based on the Yaris platform, Prius c has a longer interior and more legroom and hiproom front and rear than Toyota's popular compact car.

  Toyota Australia executive director sales and marketing Matthew Callachor said Prius c delivers a compelling value proposition.

  “Prius c combines a compact exterior, spacious interior, desirable features, engaging driving dynamics, advanced technology and five-door hatchback utility with aggressive pricing,” Mr Callachor said.

  “It is designed for people who want a dynamically styled, fun-to-drive city car and the undeniable ‘cool’ factor of driving a car with cutting-edge technology and fantastic fuel economy.”

  “Prius c adopts the name of the world's best known and best selling hybrid vehicle, Prius, to communicate it has the advanced features and excellent fuel efficiency unique to Toyota's hybrid vehicles.”

  “Prius c is further evidence of Toyota's commitment to achieving greater market penetration for hybrids by making this core technology more attainable for a wider audience,” he said.

  Standard features include smart (keyless) entry and start, automatic air-conditioning, 6.1-inch touch-screen display audio, CD player, Bluetooth™ audio streaming and phone connectivity^, USB port with iPod® connectivity^^, a 3.5-inch colour thin-film transistor multi-information display, 15-inch wheels with a full-size spare, cruise control, foglamps, power windows and mirrors, and 60/40 split-fold rear seat.

  Safety is also standard with seven airbags, reversing camera, vehicle stability and traction control, anti-skid brakes with brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution, and hill-start assist control.

  Prius c is expected to be awarded a five-star safety rating.

  High-grade Prius c i-Tech is $26,990* - just $3,000 extra for upscale features including satellite navigation with live traffic updates#, alloy wheels, self-levelling LED headlamps with washers, power retractable exterior mirrors, a larger rear spoiler, premium seat coverings and interior trim.

  Engineers adapted Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive® technology to the smaller Prius c platform by reducing the size and weight of major components, while also improving efficiency.

  Weight reductions include more than 40kg from the redesigned hybrid system, including more than 8kg each from the transaxle and the redesigned nickel-metal hydride hybrid battery.

  The air-conditioning unit is thinner, lighter and more efficient.

  More efficient routing of the refrigerant contributes to power consumption savings at the compressor of 12 per cent.

  More than half the Prius c body shell is made from high-tensile steel, which cuts weight and contributes to fuel economy.

  The engine has no accessory belts and can be operated in Eco mode to reduce energy consumption by governing the throttle and electric air-conditioner.

  EV mode allows Prius c to be driven solely by electric power for short distances (1-2km) at low speed (under 40km/h) - providing quiet driving in suburban neighbourhoods.

  A quick-acting catalyst reduces warm-up time to help lower emissions while the battery has been redesigned for faster recharging in slow-moving traffic.

  Key drivetrain components are located within the chassis to help provide optimum interior space and handling as well as enhancing weight distribution.

  The Prius c centre of gravity is low, contributing to its flat ride and nimble handling, while its strong body creates a stable platform for the long-travel, all-coil suspension.

  The front suspension uses a MacPherson strut design and the rear rides on a tuned torsion beam. Coil-spring and shock-absorber characteristics have been tuned to enhance handling, flat turning and smooth ride comfort.

  Exterior colours include two new vibrant mica metallic paints - Sunrise (orange) and Aqua - and a crystal pearl White Mist.

  The futuristic yet passenger-friendly interior uses black as the basic interior colour with contrasting lighter colours for the door trims, seat surfaces and the instrument panel.

  Prius c, like all new Toyota vehicles, is covered by Toyota Service Advantage with a capped price of $130 for each of up to six scheduled services in the first three years or 60,000km##.

  Owners of Prius c wishing to keep their vehicle in pristine condition can choose from a range of Toyota Genuine Accessories specifically designed to protect their car.

  Toyota Genuine front and rear park assist+ is available to help drivers negotiate tight parking spots and avoid bumps and scrapes.

  Also available are Toyota Genuine carpet floor mats, bootliner, headlamp covers, and door handle and bumper paint protection.

  To register your interest, feel free to submit a vehicle enquiry.

  * Recommended retail prices exclude dealer delivery, government and statutory charges and optional extras.

  ** Source of fuel consumption data: ADR 81/02. Fuel consumption and emissions data will vary depending on driving conditions/style, vehicle conditions and options/accessories.

  ^ The Bluetooth™ word mark is owned by The Bluetooth SIG, Inc. Not all devices will be compatible and functionality will vary depending on the device.

  ^^ iPod® is a trademark of Apple, Inc. Not all devices will be compatible and functionality will vary depending on the device.

  # Available in the following metropolitan areas: Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney; it operates from information provided by Intelematics Australia and may not cover all road incidents and congestion. Please see www.sunatraffic.com.au for details.

  ## Maximum payable for standard scheduled servicing (normal operating conditions) until first of 3 years or 60,000kms (up to the first 6 services). Excludes Government & Rental vehicles. Contact your Toyota Dealer or go to toyota.com.au/advantage for other exclusions and eligibility.

  +Park assist is designed as a driver assist device only and should not be used as a substitute for skilled driving and/or safe parking practices. The area into which the vehicle is to be driven must be visually monitored by the driver.