Embedding green structures into Taiwan’s workshop outlets

As one of the leading automobile manufacturers in Taiwan, Toyota affiliate HOTAI is steadfast in its commitment towards sustainable, environmentally-friendly business practices. HOTAI has maintained high standards of production and service throughout the years, while continually and proactively searching for ways to reduce impact on the local environment.

From 2012 to 2015, HOTAI rolled out the 3rd generation Toyota outlet remodel programme, where workshop outlets are reconstructed and fitted with built-in green structures. Today, 107 of the 122 workshops run by HOTAI have been successfully remodelled.

The remodelling programme sees a number of green, eco-friendly structures and systems being put into place at each workshop. During the initial stages of construction and renovation, eco-friendly bricks such as slate and shimizu bricks were carefully selected. These government-certified building materials are created with energy-efficient processes to minimise carbon emissions, and are an eco-friendly alternative to more common materials like concrete.

The outlet interiors were also fitted with several green appliances, which aid in better management of energy within the workshops themselves. These include LED lights and variable frequency air conditioners, which deliver greater energy optimisation. To reduce water consumption, the remodeled workshops were also equipped with water-saving facilities. Green spaces were also constructed around the workshops, with the surrounding forests thus minimising any possible carbon emissions emanating from operational processes.

In addition, paperless services were also integrated into the brand new workshops. Each outlet would now have electronic catalogues and electronic billboards, instead of traditional printed brochures or posters. Customer consultants were also trained to use M-sales on iPads, when conversing with customers. A dual-screen reception system was also introduced where customers signed on screens, instead of paper. E-invoices were also introduced to reduce reliance on paper. Invoice sizes were also downsized, in a bid to save paper in the event that printed invoices were requested.

With the HOTAI outlet remodeling programme, each outlet saves an average of USD 145,000 in a single year on energy expenses. This is not only an economical investment, but also carries the penultimate aim of creating excellent customer experiences. With eco-friendly features embedded across our outlets, the remodeling programme affirms our pledge towards green business practices, and towards mimimising our company’s carbon footprint.