Delivering Solutions to Toyota

Representatives from Toyota were welcomed to Acres Engineering to cary out an onsite FAT (factory acceptance test) inspection.

Acres are working with Toyota to provide a custom solution for storing and transporting Rocker Panels that are fitted to their  Corolla.

Rocker Panels (on the car body) are the sections of a car’s bodywork that run along the sides of the vehicle, between the front and rear wheel wells, just below the doors. Rocker panels play a role in aerodynamics and can be designed to improve the vehicle’s appearance. These parts are visible components featuring ‘A’ surfaces and have to be treated with care. Acres, using its knowledge and experience have design a solution that is fit for purpose, whilst minimising footprint and taking considerations into account such as transportation.

Toyota have worked with Acres Engineering since first establishing a facility at Burnaston, Derbyshire. Acres have provided numerous solutions typically aimed at Lean Manufacturing, 5S or Product Handling. Acres products help to improve productivity, safety and quality within the Automotive sector.

Toyota operates several manufacturing facilities and entities in the UK, focusing on the production of automobiles and engines. Here’s an overview of their activities:

1. Vehicle Production: Toyota has a vehicle manufacturing plant in Burnaston, Derbyshire. This facility is known for producing a range of Toyota models for the European market. Over the years, models such as the Toyota Corolla and the Avensis have been manufactured here. The plant is notable for its adoption of Toyota’s renowned production system, which emphasises efficiency, quality, and lean manufacturing processes.
2. Engine Manufacturing: Toyota also operates an engine manufacturing plant in Deeside, North Wales. This facility produces engines for various Toyota models that are both sold in the UK and exported to other countries. The plant is equipped with advanced manufacturing technology and follows Toyota’s principles of continuous improvement and respect for people.
3. Research and Development: While the primary focus in the UK is on manufacturing, Toyota also engages in research and development activities. These efforts are aimed at improving manufacturing processes, developing new technologies, and enhancing vehicle design and performance. Toyota’s R&D activities in the UK and Europe support the company’s global mission to create more environmentally friendly vehicles and adopt innovative technologies.
4. Investment in Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Production: Toyota has been investing in the production of hybrid and electric vehicles in the UK, reflecting the company’s global commitment to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions. The UK manufacturing sites play a crucial role in Toyota’s strategy to increase the production of environmentally friendly vehicles.
5. Economic Impact and Employment: Toyota’s manufacturing presence in the UK contributes significantly to the local economy through job creation, skills development, and supply chain opportunities. The company is a major employer in the regions where it operates, providing a range of roles from manufacturing and engineering to administrative and support functions.

Toyota is credited with developing the principles of lean manufacturing, a revolutionary approach to production that emphasises efficiency, waste reduction, and continuous improvement. This system is known as the Toyota Production System (TPS). It was developed in the post-World War II era, primarily by Taiichi Ohno and Eiji Toyoda, among others, at Toyota.

The TPS is based on several key principles, including just-in-time production (producing only what is needed, when it is needed, and in the amount needed), jidoka (automation with a human touch, where machines stop automatically to prevent defective products), and kaizen (continuous improvement). The system also emphasises the importance of respect for people, team work, and standardisation of tasks to ensure quality and efficiency.

Lean manufacturing has since been adopted and adapted by industries worldwide, far beyond automotive manufacturing, as its principles can be applied to virtually any production process. The core idea is to maximise customer value while minimising waste, thereby creating more value for customers with fewer resources.

If you are just starting on your Lean manufacturing journey, or are well established in your Continual Improvement journey Acres can assist. Acres specialise in working with all varieties of Manufacturing businesses to assist them with improving their manufacturing processes.

Acres also manufacture access platforms, jigs and fixtures and many other types of product. 

Talk to us today about your requirements: [email protected] / 01332695240 / Contact Us Form