Al-Futtaim Motors launches the first-of-its-kind Toyota Off-road safety program

In keeping with its commitment towards responsible driving, Al-Futtaim Motors, exclusive distributors of Toyota in the UAE, launched the Toyota Off-road Safety Program the first initiative of its kind in the UAE aimed at raising awareness on driving safety on off-road and desert terrain.

The weekend program, that began in March 2012 and runs every Friday and Saturday, consists of two morning and afternoon 5-hour sessions. Participants can look forward to briefing and practical lessons covering familiarization and best use of transmission and 4WD, recommended driver positioning and safety rules, acceleration techniques, braking and cornering in sand, as well as slope safety and danger guidelines.

The experience allows participants to compare their vehicles’ performance on road and off-road and get a hands-on demonstration of the car’s centre of gravity.

The session also tackles basic off-road recovery and usage of different rescue equipment, in addition to desert etiquette and environmental ethics.

“Our objective is to educate our customers on safe driving and the best ways to drive their SUVs in the toughest terrains across the UAE. We know how intimate the relationship between the UAE people and their land is. But we also know that not everybody has enough knowledge and skills to explore its toughest terrains without risk. We aim at compiling the best desert driving tips and demonstrations in the most professional yet fun atmosphere,” said Simon Frith, Managing Director, Al-Futtaim Motors.

“Toyota SUVs make the majority of cars used for desert safaris in the UAE. We feel it is our responsibility to let our customers explore their cars’ off-roading capabilities within the safest conditions possible. This is a complementary program targeting all our SUV owners from Sequoia, our largest vehicle, to Land Cruiser, Prado, FJ Cruiser, Fortuner and RAV4,” he added.

The program targets all Toyota customers who own an SUV. Customers will be reached through invitations by Al-Futtaim Motors Sales and Service teams to inform them about the program. Those wanting to participate will have to be present at the Dubai Festival City Toyota showroom at either 8.00 am for the morning session or 12.30 for the afternoon session.

The program only allows individuals above 12 years of age and is run by a team of professional desert driving marshals, backed up by a rescue team.