Toyota NZ chief executive Neeraj Lala has been elected to the steering committee of the Climate Leaders Coalition (CLC).
The CLC is a group of businesses committed to progressing New Zealand’s transition to carbon zero. Other CEOs on the committee include NZ Post’s David Walsh, Z Energy’s Michael Bennetts, and Spark’s Jolie Hodson.
“As a founding member we take our election to the steering committee seriously. I am honoured to build on the legacy of my predecessors and bring some further energy into ensuring this important work continues,” Lala says.
“This is important to Toyota as we continue down the pathway, we have been on for many years towards net zero emissions. Our journey to a low carbon future continues to gather momentum as we ensure that we are part of important cross industry groups such as the CLC.”
Lala believes the automotive industry should take “a stronger leadership role” in the transition to net zero. Toyota NZ is currently the only new-vehicle distributor signatory on the Climate Leaders Coalition.
While Toyota is yet to offer a dedicated EV, it’s reduced the average emissions of its fleet from 185g/100km to 160g/100km over the last five years. This has been achieved by increasing electrified options, and phasing out some dedicated internal combustion models.
Toyota’s local arm has also rolled out numerous low-emission incentives, including an affordable hybrid leasing scheme and a hydrogen vehicle fleet partnership scheme.
The brand’s first electric car, the bZ4X, is set to launch in New Zealand early next year.
“At Toyota we are fully committed to reducing emissions from our operations and our vehicle portfolio. We are equally committed to ensuring the transition to low or zero carbon transport options is affordable, accessible, and sustainable,” Lala adds.
Lala’s joining of the CLC aligns with the organisation’s launch of a new statement of ambition, launching later tonight.
“We know the window to make meaningful action to prevent the worst impacts of climate change is closing fast,” says Coalition Convenor and CEO of Spark, Jolie Hodson.
“To remain credible climate leaders, we must ensure we are doing everything we can to unite New Zealand businesses and accelerate our transition towards a zero-carbon and climate resilient future, where Aotearoa, and all New Zealanders, can thrive.”