Toyota Donates Two Hybrids to Cincinnati

Local governments seem to have a love/hate affair going with hybrids. They like the fuel efficiency and green image they present. They like the ability to make a statement about more than just local affairs, i.e. oil dependency. But what they don't like is how expensive hybrids are.

Well, for one precinct in Cincinnati, that's not going to be an issue. Toyota is donating two SUV Highlander Hybrids. The H270 hp Highlander will be used as K-9 Units.

With the addition of two more hybrid SUVs, that will bring the Cincinnati department up to eight hybrids.


Toyota has a special connection with Cincinnati’s K-9 team. A couple of years ago, the automaker helped the police department acquire and train a patrol dog. The dog, affectionately named “Tundra,” after Toyota’s full-size pickup, is considered one of the best canines of its kind in the country. In 2004, the Cincinnati Police Department hosted the 2004 United States Police Canine Regional Trials, and Toyota contributed $15,000 in support of the local competition.

“We are extremely pleased that the Cincinnati Police Department trusts our Highlander Hybrids to the point of adding two more vehicles to their fleet,” said Clyde Dyson, general manager of TMS’ Cincinnati Regional Sales Office. “Toyota has been a strong advocate of local law enforcement for many years, and we feel privileged to be helping them protect and serve the people of the greater Cincinnati area.”

In appreciation to Toyota, the Cincinnati Police Department will be conducting K-9 demonstrations for company employees at the Cincinnati Regional Sales Office on Monday, November 2. These demos are open to the Media and begin promptly at 11:30 a.m. During this event, K-9 officers will conduct simulated scenarios for dogs specially trained in bomb and drug detection and standard patrol situations. A few converted, police-owned Highlander Hybrids will also be on display.