Toyota contributed $11.1 million to STEM programmes in Indiana schools. Future STEM professions in the region, particularly employment prospects in the auto industry, are supported by the investment.
The Japanese automaker also unveiled a new three-row SUV called the Grand Highlander while announcing a $803 million investment in Indiana. Two new SUVs will be produced with the help of the $803 million, one of which is the Grand Highlander from 2024. It also includes the $11.1 million Toyota USA Foundations contributed to Indiana’s educational system.
“As the first Grand Highlanders come off the assembly line today, it’s another Terrific day for the state, according to Governor Eric J. Holcomb. Furthermore, we acknowledge Toyota’s continuous support of early learning initiatives, which will help us deepen the investments we are making across the state and pave the way for some of our youngest Hoosiers to pursue careers in STEM.
The initial investment will be split among Evansville-Vanderburgh School Corporation (EVSC), North Gibson School Corporation, Building Blocks, and Youth First Inc. The legacy automaker’s gift will give instructors and students access to high-quality PreK instruction, student mental health resources, multilingual learning, and practical STEM programmes.
The contribution by the USA Foundation is a component of the organization’s Driving Possibilities grant programme, which it initially unveiled in 2022. Toyota has launched a $110 million nationwide campaign called Driving Possibilities with the goal of educating kids about careers and interacting with the communities near its plants. The Driving Possibilities programme is funded by Toyota USA Foundation, Toyota Motor North America (TMNA), and Toyota Financial Services (TFS).
Tellis Bethel, group vice president of social innovation at company, “our goal is to raise awareness of potential STEM careers while assisting in the development of sustainable programmes in the communities where our Toyota team members live and work.” It’s great to observe Driving Possibilities’ growth close to our Indiana plant, which might cost up to $4.2 million in the first year.
Supporting STEM programmes is an investment in the future as the auto sector moves towards the creation of high-tech electric vehicles. Last month, company increased its technology and investment in electric vehicles in China. China is actively promoting domestic automakers to embrace and develop electric vehicles.
The market for electric vehicles has made it possible for existing automakers to reinvent themselves or for brand-new businesses to enter the market. Other nations, besides China, are also making significant investments in the EV business. Toyota, an established automaker, is likewise getting ready for the switch to EVs. company received a $853 million government subsidy from Japan in June.