Carmakers support California fire relief effort

MANILA: Several carmakers have pledged to support the Efforts to help the California wildfire victims in the United States (US).

Toyota’s subsidiaries in America (Toyota Motor North America and Toyota Financial Services) have announced efforts to assist those affected by the recent fires. Their annual contribution to the American Red Cross and SBP (a non-profit organization dedicated to helping communities shrink the time between disaster and recovery by rebuilding homes), for example, are utilized to support recovery efforts when disasters strike around the country.

In addition, Toyota is matching contributions made by US-based employees to support the abovementioned institutions and other eligible non-profits.

Moreover, Toyota Financial Services and Lexus Financial Services are offering payment relief options to affected customers. Impacted lease and finance customers residing in the affected area may be eligible to take advantage of several payment relief options, some of which include extensions and lease deferred payments, redirecting billing statements, and arranging phone or online payments.

As for Honda’s arm in America, it pledged USD ($) 500,000 to help fire relief efforts in California. The said amount will be donated to the American Red Cross to enable the organization to support the tens of thousands of residents impacted by the fire.

Much like its fellow Japanese carmaker, Honda’s financial wings — Honda Financial Services and Acura Financial Services — are offering payment extensions and lease deferrals to customers impacted by the natural disaster.

Similarly, the company is also matching eligible donations on a dollar-for-dollar basis, which maxes out at $1,000 per associate contribution.

“As a member of the Southern California community for over 60 years, Honda cares very deeply about the local community and the impact of the devastating wildfires on families and businesses alike,” American Honda Motor Company Incorporated Corporate Affairs Senior Vice President Jennifer Thomas noted in a press release.

“We hope this contribution will provide needed relief and support to all displaced residents or those otherwise impacted by this tragic and ongoing disaster,” she added.

The South Koreans are also doing their part with pledges coming from both Hyundai and its premium sub-brand Genesis. The two marques are donating $100,000 to the American Red Cross and another $100,000 to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation for immediate disaster relief and recovery efforts.

Additionally, Hyundai Capital America (which includes Hyundai Motor Finance and Genesis Finance) will offer financial hardship support to eligible customers through payment relief solutions.

“Hyundai and Genesis are deeply saddened by the devastation caused by the wildfires across Los Angeles and everyone impacted,” Hyundai and Genesis Motor North America Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Randy Parker said in a press statement.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the heroic first responders and fire departments working tirelessly to protect residents, their homes, and loved ones. Southern California is more than just our home — it’s the heart of our North American operations, including our headquarters, design studios, and many Group partners. During this challenging time, our top priority is the safety and well-being of our team members, retailers, and community partners in the affected areas,” he added.

Hyundai-owned Kia is also chiming in with a $250,000 donation to the American Red Cross.

Kia will also provide financial hardship support to impacted customers who are eligible for payment relief solutions.

“Kia is deeply committed to supporting communities in need, especially during times of crisis,” Kia North America and Kia America President and CEO Seungkyu Yoon stated in a press release.

“As the Los Angeles wildfires continue to impact families and neighborhoods, we stand alongside American Red Cross in providing vital aid to those affected. Through this $250,000 donation, we hope to bring relief, resources, and a sense of hope to those who need it most. At Kia, we believe in the power of coming together to rebuild and strengthen the communities we call home,” he added.

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