The Toyota Technical Center first opened its doors in 1977. Headquartered in Michigan, the division focuses on powertrain, mechanical design, electrical engineering, electronics and advanced research projects. And now, with the addition of 250 new employees over the next five years, the Toyota Technical Center will be better equipped than ever to embark on these and other endeavors.

What other kinds of pursuits, specifically? For starters, Toyota is planning to open a dedicated branch of…

In an effort to further the development of in-vehicle interfaces, Toyota and Intel recently signed a memorandum of understanding. This means that they'll partner in the future to create a new infotainment system that offers drivers more of the information they need, while making it easier for them to digest it behind the wheel without having to take their eyes off the road.

While this represents a huge step in the right direction for…