Workers sign up for new NVQ in hybrid vehicle introduction

Although TMUK memebers were experienced in the production of conventional petrol and diesel models, they needed to be similarly trained in specific issues surrounding hybrid vehicles, such as safe handling of the high voltage elements of the Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain. As a low emissions vehicle, with CO2 output from just 89g/km, the launch of new Auris Hybrid production also provided an opportunity to TMUK to use the training to further extend the environmental awareness of its people, both in the workplace and in the community. TMUK deputy managing director, Tony Walker commented: "Launching production of the new Auris Hybrid has called for a big investment in training. We have even developed a new Diploma in Hybrid Vehicle Introduction and Environmental Improvement, together with the Sector skills Council for Science, Engineering and manufacturing Technologies, which has been formally recognised as an NVQ Level 2." To understand and meet the special requirements of building the first European-manufactured full hybrid car, TMUK members have also travelled to Japan and the USA to learn best practice in safety and quality from their Toyota colleagues who make Prius at Tsutsumi, the "mother" factory of Toyota's hybrid production, and in Kentucky, where the hybrid Camry is built. These teams have then been able to pass on their new skills to their team colleagues through further training sessions back in Britain. This learning is made easier thanks to the fact that Toyota production centres, wherever in the world they may be, work to exactly the same principles of the Toyota Production System, making for easier understanding and knowledge-sharing. Production of the new Toyota Auris begins at TMUK's Burnaston plant in Derbyshire later this month. The 1.8-litre VVT-i petrol engine featured in the hybrid powertrain is supplied by the company's plant at Deeside in North Wales.