Terashima Susumu takes Ren Osugi for a drive in the passenger seat! "Toyota Eco Drive Challenge!"

On November 2, Toyota Motor Corporation held a talk show featuring actors Ren Osugi and Susumu Terajima as guests at the newly renovated MEGA WEB, an experiential automotive theme facility in Koto Ward, Tokyo. The two actors appear in the TOYOTOWN campaign TV commercials as "Time-Space Police."

The company launched the "FUN TO ECO-DRIVE" project on October 1st, aiming to promote hybrid vehicles, reduce environmental impact through enjoyable eco-driving, and decrease traffic accidents through safe driving.

Prior to the talk show, Terashima took on the "Eco-Drive Challenge!", an experience designed to make eco-driving accessible and easy to understand. He commented, "Eco-driving equals safe driving. My daughter rides in the passenger seat, so I always make a point to drive safely." Osugi, who sat in the passenger seat as an instructor, said, "It was interesting to see the driving status displayed on the screen during the drive, like whether we were running on gasoline or electricity."

When asked about the atmosphere during the commercial shoot, Osugi commented with a smile, "Playing a fictional detective with a mysterious, enigmatic setting was really fun." Terashima spoke about their great chemistry, saying, "We shot in perfect sync. The staff had great teamwork; just looking into Osugi-san's eyes, I knew what he wanted to do."

When asked about car-related memories, Mr. Osugi confessed an unexpected anecdote: "Actually, I got my license after turning 50. My instructor laughed, saying I drove more safely than expected, contrary to his image. I cried my eyes out when I finally got my license."

Mega Web held the "Eco-Drive Challenge!" event on November 9-10. Visitors who test-drove hybrid vehicles received an advice sheet scoring their eco-driving performance.

For details, visit the "FUN TO ECO-DRIVE" special website.

Explaining the "FUN TO ECO-DRIVE" project: Ritsuko Nishinai, Marketing Director, Toyota Marketing Japan