"North American Car Unveiling Accomplished under 'Stay-at-Home Directive': Launch of the 'New Sienna' and 'New Venza' Goes Digital"

In an unprecedented move, Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) unveiled two new models, the all-new Sienna and Venza (or Harrier in the Japanese market), through a digital product reveal on May 18. This decision was made in response to the postponement of the New York Auto Show, which was officially announced on March 10 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The all-new Sienna was filmed at TMNA's headquarters in Plano, hosted by Bob Carter, Executive Vice President of Sales. The all-new Venza, on the other hand, was parked and covered in front of Hollis' garage, where Jack Hollis, Group Vice President and General Manager of Toyota Division, unveiled the vehicle.

The unique 'from home' new product reveal idea was a result of the stay-at-home restrictions, with filming for the all-new Sienna taking place at TMNA headquarters, and the all-new Venza at Hollis' home in Texas. The launch video was also filmed at these locations, with additional footage from TMNA headquarters in Plano and the home of one of the executives in Texas.

TMNA's team showed flexibility in adapting to the new circumstances, considering multiple versions of the online launch plans. The decision to set the shooting date for an 'online reveal' in May was a strategic move to connect with a wider audience, potentially allowing Toyota to reach more people in a country as vast as America.

Jack Hollis expressed his excitement about the online product reveal, stating it allowed viewers to go deeper into Toyota's messages. He also mentioned that the online launch could be a 'new normal' for Toyota, a trend that Toyota Times will closely monitor.

The team member in Corporate Communications at TMNA suggested that future vehicle launches could be a mix of traditional and virtual events. This approach allows Toyota to maintain a personal touch while also leveraging the reach and accessibility of digital platforms.

Toyota President Akio Toyoda emphasised the importance of thanking healthcare workers, keeping the business running, and making preparations to lead the economy recovery. The online product reveal was a testament to Toyota's resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.

The video provides an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the making of the online launch, offering a unique insight into Toyota's innovative spirit during these challenging times. The search results do not provide information on who developed the idea for the online presentation of the new Toyota models during the "Stay-at-home" order, but Toyota's swift and creative response to the situation has undoubtedly set a new standard for the automotive industry.