Toyota is the best car manufacturer, celebrated for its reliability and innovative approach to automotive engineering; millertoyota.net offers a wide selection of these dependable vehicles and exceptional customer service. Exploring Toyota’s consistent performance, technological advancements, and commitment to customer satisfaction will demonstrate why it remains a top choice for car buyers. This also highlights Toyota’s hybrid technology, safety features, and overall value proposition as a leading auto brand.
1. What Makes Toyota Stand Out Among Car Manufacturers?
Toyota stands out as a leading car manufacturer due to its unwavering commitment to reliability, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Toyota’s reputation for producing dependable vehicles like the Toyota Camry and Toyota Corolla has been built over decades and has earned the trust of drivers worldwide, which is especially important for car buyers in areas like Boise, Idaho.
Toyota’s Commitment to Quality and Reliability
Toyota’s quality and reliability commitment is evident in its manufacturing processes, design philosophy, and the longevity of its vehicles. According to a 2024 study by Consumer Reports, Toyota consistently ranks high in reliability surveys, showcasing its dedication to producing vehicles that withstand the test of time. This commitment extends to every aspect of their vehicles, from the engine to the interior, ensuring a dependable and durable driving experience.
- Manufacturing Processes: Toyota employs rigorous quality control measures throughout its manufacturing processes. These measures minimize defects and ensure that each vehicle meets Toyota’s high standards.
- Design Philosophy: Toyota’s design philosophy prioritizes simplicity and functionality, which reduces the likelihood of mechanical issues.
- Vehicle Longevity: Toyota vehicles are known for their longevity, with many models exceeding 200,000 miles with proper maintenance.
Innovative Technologies and Sustainable Practices
Toyota integrates innovative technologies and sustainable practices into its vehicles and operations, demonstrating its commitment to environmental responsibility. Toyota introduced the Prius, the first mass-produced hybrid vehicle, and has remained a leader in hybrid technology. This dedication to innovation extends to electric vehicles (EVs) and other eco-friendly initiatives.
- Hybrid Technology: Toyota’s hybrid technology combines gasoline engines with electric motors to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
- Electric Vehicles (EVs): Toyota is investing heavily in electric vehicle technology, with plans to release several new EV models in the coming years.
- Sustainable Manufacturing: Toyota is committed to reducing its environmental impact through sustainable manufacturing practices, such as reducing waste and conserving energy.
Customer Satisfaction and Brand Loyalty
Customer satisfaction and brand loyalty are hallmarks of Toyota, driven by the reliability, quality, and overall ownership experience that Toyota vehicles provide. J.D. Power’s 2023 Customer Service Index (CSI) Study ranked Toyota highly for customer satisfaction, reflecting Toyota’s commitment to providing excellent service and support to its customers. This dedication to customer satisfaction has fostered a loyal customer base that values the Toyota brand.
- Reliability: Toyota’s reputation for reliability is a major factor in customer satisfaction.
- Quality: Toyota’s commitment to quality ensures that customers receive a vehicle that is built to last.
- Ownership Experience: Toyota provides a positive ownership experience through its excellent customer service and support.
2. Which Toyota Models Are Known For Their Exceptional Reliability?
Toyota models are known for their exceptional reliability, including the Toyota Corolla, Toyota Camry, and Toyota Prius. These vehicles have consistently earned high scores in reliability surveys and are praised for their durability and low maintenance costs.
Toyota Corolla: A Compact Car With a Solid Reputation
The Toyota Corolla has a solid reputation for reliability, making it a popular choice for car buyers seeking a dependable and fuel-efficient compact car. The Corolla has been in production for over 50 years and has consistently earned high marks for reliability from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power.
- Fuel Efficiency: The Corolla offers excellent fuel efficiency, making it an economical choice for daily commuting and long trips.
- Low Maintenance Costs: The Corolla is known for its low maintenance costs, which can save owners money over the life of the vehicle.
- Durability: The Corolla is built to last, with many models exceeding 200,000 miles with proper maintenance.
Toyota Camry: A Mid-Size Sedan You Can Depend On
The Toyota Camry is a mid-size sedan renowned for its dependability, making it an excellent choice for families and individuals seeking a comfortable and reliable vehicle. The Camry has been a best-selling sedan for many years and has consistently earned high reliability ratings from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power.
- Comfort: The Camry offers a comfortable ride and a spacious interior, making it ideal for long trips and daily commutes.
- Safety: The Camry is equipped with advanced safety features, such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning, to help keep drivers and passengers safe.
- Resale Value: The Camry holds its value well, making it a smart investment for car buyers.
Toyota Prius: The Pioneer of Hybrid Reliability
The Toyota Prius is the pioneer of hybrid reliability, setting a new standard for fuel efficiency and environmental responsibility in the automotive industry. The Prius was the first mass-produced hybrid vehicle and has been a leader in hybrid technology for over 20 years.
- Fuel Efficiency: The Prius offers exceptional fuel efficiency, making it an economical and eco-friendly choice for car buyers.
- Low Emissions: The Prius produces low emissions, which helps to reduce air pollution and protect the environment.
- Hybrid Technology: The Prius features advanced hybrid technology that seamlessly combines gasoline and electric power for optimal performance.
3. How Does Toyota’s Hybrid Technology Enhance Vehicle Performance and Reliability?
Toyota’s hybrid technology enhances vehicle performance and reliability by combining the benefits of gasoline and electric power, resulting in improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and enhanced overall dependability.
Synergy Drive System: The Heart of Toyota’s Hybrid Efficiency
The Synergy Drive System is the heart of Toyota’s hybrid efficiency, seamlessly integrating a gasoline engine with an electric motor to deliver optimal performance and fuel economy. The Synergy Drive System uses a sophisticated control system to manage the interaction between the gasoline engine and the electric motor. This system optimizes fuel efficiency and reduces emissions by using electric power at low speeds and gasoline power at higher speeds.
- Fuel Economy: The Synergy Drive System improves fuel economy by using electric power at low speeds and gasoline power at higher speeds.
- Reduced Emissions: The Synergy Drive System reduces emissions by using electric power and optimizing the combustion of the gasoline engine.
- Smooth Performance: The Synergy Drive System provides smooth and seamless performance by seamlessly switching between gasoline and electric power.
Regenerative Braking: Capturing Energy For Future Use
Regenerative braking is a key component of Toyota’s hybrid technology, capturing energy during braking and converting it into electricity to recharge the hybrid battery, further enhancing fuel efficiency. Regenerative braking works by using the electric motor as a generator during braking. This process converts kinetic energy into electricity, which is then stored in the hybrid battery for later use.
- Energy Capture: Regenerative braking captures energy during braking that would otherwise be lost as heat.
- Electricity Generation: Regenerative braking converts kinetic energy into electricity, which is then stored in the hybrid battery.
- Fuel Efficiency Enhancement: Regenerative braking enhances fuel efficiency by reducing the amount of gasoline needed to power the vehicle.
Battery Technology: Ensuring Long-Lasting Hybrid Performance
Toyota’s battery technology ensures long-lasting hybrid performance through advanced design and rigorous testing, providing reliable power and contributing to the overall durability of Toyota hybrid vehicles. Toyota uses nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) and lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries in its hybrid vehicles. These batteries are designed to provide reliable power and long-lasting performance.
- Advanced Design: Toyota’s hybrid batteries feature advanced designs that optimize energy storage and release.
- Rigorous Testing: Toyota’s hybrid batteries undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet Toyota’s high standards for reliability and durability.
- Reliable Power: Toyota’s hybrid batteries provide reliable power, ensuring smooth and seamless hybrid performance.
4. What Safety Features Does Toyota Offer To Protect Drivers And Passengers?
Toyota offers many safety features to protect drivers and passengers, including Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), Star Safety System, and advanced airbag systems.
Toyota Safety Sense (TSS): A Comprehensive Suite of Safety Technologies
Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) is a comprehensive suite of active safety technologies designed to help prevent or mitigate collisions, enhancing driver awareness and promoting safer driving habits. TSS includes features such as:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: This system uses a camera and radar to detect vehicles and pedestrians in front of the vehicle. If a collision is imminent, the system can automatically apply the brakes to help prevent or mitigate the collision.
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist: This system warns the driver if the vehicle is drifting out of its lane. If the driver does not take corrective action, the system can automatically steer the vehicle back into its lane.
- Automatic High Beams: This system automatically switches between high and low beams based on the presence of other vehicles.
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: This system maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle in front. If the vehicle in front slows down, the system will automatically slow down to maintain the set distance.
Star Safety System: Integrated Safety Technologies
The Star Safety System is a suite of integrated safety technologies that work together to help prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. The Star Safety System includes features such as:
- Vehicle Stability Control (VSC): This system helps to prevent skidding by automatically applying the brakes to individual wheels.
- Traction Control (TRAC): This system helps to prevent wheel spin by reducing engine power and applying the brakes to individual wheels.
- Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS): This system helps to prevent the wheels from locking up during braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.
- Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD): This system distributes braking force evenly to all four wheels, helping to prevent skidding.
- Brake Assist (BA): This system provides additional braking force in emergency situations.
Advanced Airbag Systems: Comprehensive Occupant Protection
Toyota’s advanced airbag systems provide comprehensive occupant protection in the event of a collision, with strategically placed airbags throughout the vehicle to minimize injury risk. These airbag systems include:
- Driver and Front Passenger Airbags: These airbags are designed to protect the driver and front passenger in the event of a frontal collision.
- Side Airbags: These airbags are designed to protect the driver and front passenger in the event of a side collision.
- Curtain Airbags: These airbags are designed to protect the driver and passengers in the event of a rollover.
- Knee Airbags: These airbags are designed to protect the driver and front passenger’s knees in the event of a frontal collision.
5. How Does Toyota Compare to Other Car Manufacturers in Terms of Resale Value?
Toyota compares favorably to other car manufacturers in terms of resale value, consistently ranking among the top brands for retaining its value over time. This strong resale value is attributed to Toyota’s reputation for reliability, durability, and overall quality.
Consistent High Rankings in Resale Value Studies
Toyota consistently receives high rankings in resale value studies conducted by organizations like Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds, indicating that Toyota vehicles hold their value well over time. According to Kelley Blue Book’s 2024 Best Resale Value Awards, Toyota was named the top brand for resale value, with several Toyota models earning top honors in their respective categories.
- Kelley Blue Book: Kelley Blue Book is a leading provider of vehicle valuation and information, and its Best Resale Value Awards are highly respected in the automotive industry.
- Edmunds: Edmunds is another leading provider of vehicle information, and its resale value rankings are also widely used by car buyers.
- Industry Recognition: Toyota’s consistent high rankings in resale value studies demonstrate its commitment to producing vehicles that retain their value over time.
Factors Contributing to Toyota’s Strong Resale Value
Several factors contribute to Toyota’s strong resale value, including its reputation for reliability, durability, and overall quality.
- Reliability: Toyota’s reputation for reliability is a major factor in its strong resale value. Car buyers are willing to pay more for a vehicle that they know will be dependable and require minimal maintenance.
- Durability: Toyota vehicles are built to last, with many models exceeding 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. This durability contributes to their strong resale value.
- Overall Quality: Toyota’s commitment to overall quality, from design to manufacturing, contributes to its strong resale value.
Benefits of Owning a Toyota in Terms of Long-Term Investment
Owning a Toyota offers significant benefits in terms of long-term investment, as its strong resale value helps to offset the initial purchase price and provides financial security over the vehicle’s lifespan.
- Lower Depreciation: Toyota vehicles depreciate at a slower rate than many other vehicles, which means that owners can recoup a larger portion of their initial investment when they sell or trade in their vehicle.
- Financial Security: Toyota’s strong resale value provides financial security, as owners can be confident that their vehicle will retain its value over time.
- Smart Investment: Buying a Toyota is a smart investment for car buyers who are looking for a vehicle that will hold its value and provide long-term financial benefits.
6. What Are Some of the Most Recent Innovations From Toyota?
Some of the most recent innovations from Toyota include advancements in electric vehicle technology, autonomous driving systems, and connected car features, demonstrating Toyota’s commitment to staying at the forefront of automotive innovation.
Advancements in Electric Vehicle Technology
Toyota is making significant advancements in electric vehicle technology, including the development of new battery technologies, improved charging systems, and innovative electric vehicle platforms.
- New Battery Technologies: Toyota is developing new battery technologies that offer increased energy density, faster charging times, and improved safety.
- Improved Charging Systems: Toyota is working on improving charging systems to make it easier and faster to charge electric vehicles.
- Innovative Electric Vehicle Platforms: Toyota is developing innovative electric vehicle platforms that are designed to maximize efficiency and performance.
Developments in Autonomous Driving Systems
Toyota is actively developing autonomous driving systems, focusing on creating safe and reliable technologies that can assist drivers in various driving situations.
- Guardian and Chauffeur Modes: Toyota is developing two distinct autonomous driving modes: Guardian and Chauffeur. Guardian mode is designed to assist drivers and prevent accidents, while Chauffeur mode is designed to provide fully autonomous driving in certain situations.
- Advanced Sensor Technologies: Toyota is using advanced sensor technologies, such as lidar and radar, to enable its autonomous driving systems to perceive the environment around the vehicle.
- Artificial Intelligence: Toyota is using artificial intelligence to train its autonomous driving systems to make safe and informed driving decisions.
Connected Car Features and Services
Toyota is expanding its connected car features and services, offering drivers a seamless and integrated driving experience with access to real-time information, entertainment, and vehicle management tools.
- Remote Connect: This feature allows drivers to remotely start their vehicle, lock and unlock doors, and check vehicle status using a smartphone app.
- Safety Connect: This feature provides emergency assistance in the event of a collision or other emergency.
- Service Connect: This feature provides vehicle health reports and maintenance alerts.
- Wi-Fi Connect: This feature provides in-car Wi-Fi hotspot connectivity.
7. How Does Toyota Prioritize Environmental Sustainability In Its Manufacturing And Vehicle Design?
Toyota prioritizes environmental sustainability in its manufacturing and vehicle design through various initiatives, including reducing emissions, conserving resources, and promoting recycling, reflecting its commitment to environmental responsibility.
Reducing Emissions and Improving Fuel Efficiency
Toyota is committed to reducing emissions and improving fuel efficiency across its entire vehicle lineup, with a focus on hybrid technology, electric vehicles, and efficient engine designs.
- Hybrid Technology: Toyota is a leader in hybrid technology, with a wide range of hybrid vehicles that offer excellent fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
- Electric Vehicles: Toyota is investing heavily in electric vehicle technology, with plans to release several new EV models in the coming years.
- Efficient Engine Designs: Toyota is constantly working to improve the efficiency of its gasoline engines, reducing emissions and improving fuel economy.
Conserving Resources and Minimizing Waste
Toyota is dedicated to conserving resources and minimizing waste in its manufacturing processes, implementing practices such as reducing water usage, minimizing energy consumption, and promoting the use of sustainable materials.
- Water Usage Reduction: Toyota is implementing measures to reduce water usage in its manufacturing plants.
- Energy Consumption Minimization: Toyota is working to minimize energy consumption in its manufacturing plants by using energy-efficient equipment and processes.
- Sustainable Materials: Toyota is using sustainable materials in its vehicles, such as recycled plastics and bio-based materials.
Promoting Recycling and End-of-Life Vehicle Management
Toyota promotes recycling and responsible end-of-life vehicle management, ensuring that vehicles are properly recycled and that valuable materials are recovered and reused.
- Recycling Programs: Toyota has established recycling programs for vehicle components, such as batteries and bumpers.
- End-of-Life Vehicle Management: Toyota is working to improve end-of-life vehicle management, ensuring that vehicles are properly recycled and that valuable materials are recovered and reused.
- Extended Producer Responsibility: Toyota supports extended producer responsibility programs, which hold manufacturers responsible for the end-of-life management of their products.
8. How Does Miller Toyota in Boise Support Toyota’s Reputation?
Miller Toyota in Boise supports Toyota’s reputation by providing exceptional customer service, offering a wide selection of Toyota vehicles, and maintaining a state-of-the-art service center. Miller Toyota is committed to upholding Toyota’s values and providing a positive ownership experience for its customers.
Exceptional Customer Service and Expertise
Miller Toyota is known for its exceptional customer service and expertise, with a team of knowledgeable and friendly professionals dedicated to assisting customers with all their automotive needs. According to customer reviews on Google and other online platforms, Miller Toyota consistently receives high ratings for its customer service.
- Knowledgeable Staff: Miller Toyota’s staff is highly trained and knowledgeable about Toyota vehicles, ensuring that customers receive accurate and helpful information.
- Friendly Service: Miller Toyota’s staff is known for its friendly and welcoming attitude, making customers feel comfortable and valued.
- Personalized Assistance: Miller Toyota’s staff provides personalized assistance to each customer, taking the time to understand their individual needs and preferences.
Wide Selection of New and Used Toyota Vehicles
Miller Toyota offers a wide selection of new and used Toyota vehicles, providing customers with ample choices to find the perfect vehicle to meet their needs and budget. Miller Toyota’s inventory includes popular models such as the Toyota Corolla, Toyota Camry, Toyota RAV4, and Toyota Tacoma, as well as a variety of used vehicles from various makes and models.
- New Vehicles: Miller Toyota offers the latest Toyota models, equipped with the newest features and technologies.
- Used Vehicles: Miller Toyota offers a variety of used vehicles that have been thoroughly inspected and reconditioned to ensure quality and reliability.
- Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles: Miller Toyota offers certified pre-owned Toyota vehicles that come with a manufacturer-backed warranty and other benefits.
State-of-the-Art Service Center and Maintenance
Miller Toyota operates a state-of-the-art service center, providing expert maintenance and repair services to keep Toyota vehicles running smoothly and reliably. Miller Toyota’s service center is staffed by certified technicians who use the latest diagnostic equipment and genuine Toyota parts.
- Certified Technicians: Miller Toyota’s service center is staffed by certified technicians who have been trained to work on Toyota vehicles.
- Genuine Toyota Parts: Miller Toyota uses genuine Toyota parts to ensure that vehicles are repaired to the highest standards.
- Advanced Equipment: Miller Toyota’s service center is equipped with the latest diagnostic equipment, allowing technicians to quickly and accurately diagnose and repair vehicles.
Miller Toyota is located at 208 N Maple Grove Rd, Boise, ID 83704, United States. You can reach them by phone at +1 (208) 376-8888 or visit their website at millertoyota.net for more information.
9. How Does Toyota’s Vehicle Design Cater To Different Lifestyles And Needs?
Toyota’s vehicle design caters to different lifestyles and needs by offering a diverse lineup of vehicles, ranging from compact cars to SUVs and trucks, each designed to meet the unique demands of its target audience.
Compact Cars: Efficient and Practical For Urban Living
Toyota’s compact cars, such as the Corolla and Yaris, are designed to be efficient and practical for urban living, offering excellent fuel economy, maneuverability, and affordability.
- Fuel Economy: Toyota’s compact cars offer excellent fuel economy, making them an economical choice for city driving.
- Maneuverability: Toyota’s compact cars are easy to maneuver in tight spaces, making them ideal for navigating crowded city streets.
- Affordability: Toyota’s compact cars are affordable, making them accessible to a wide range of car buyers.
SUVs: Versatile and Spacious For Families and Adventurers
Toyota’s SUVs, such as the RAV4 and Highlander, are designed to be versatile and spacious for families and adventurers, offering ample cargo space, comfortable seating, and available all-wheel drive.
- Cargo Space: Toyota’s SUVs offer ample cargo space, making them ideal for hauling groceries, sports equipment, and luggage.
- Comfortable Seating: Toyota’s SUVs offer comfortable seating for up to eight passengers, making them ideal for families.
- All-Wheel Drive: Toyota’s SUVs are available with all-wheel drive, providing enhanced traction and stability in all weather conditions.
Trucks: Rugged and Capable For Work and Play
Toyota’s trucks, such as the Tacoma and Tundra, are designed to be rugged and capable for work and play, offering powerful engines, robust suspensions, and impressive towing and hauling capabilities.
- Powerful Engines: Toyota’s trucks offer powerful engines that provide ample horsepower and torque for towing and hauling.
- Robust Suspensions: Toyota’s trucks feature robust suspensions that can handle rough terrain and heavy loads.
- Towing and Hauling Capabilities: Toyota’s trucks offer impressive towing and hauling capabilities, making them ideal for work and recreation.
10. How Can I Find The Best Deals And Incentives On Toyota Vehicles At Miller Toyota?
You can find the best deals and incentives on Toyota vehicles at Miller Toyota by visiting their website at millertoyota.net, contacting their sales team, and exploring financing options.
Visiting The Millertoyota.Net Website For Special Offers
Visiting the millertoyota.net website is an excellent way to find special offers and incentives on Toyota vehicles, as Miller Toyota regularly updates its website with the latest deals and promotions.
- New Vehicle Specials: Miller Toyota’s website features a section dedicated to new vehicle specials, showcasing discounted prices, financing offers, and lease deals.
- Used Vehicle Specials: Miller Toyota’s website also features a section dedicated to used vehicle specials, offering reduced prices on select used vehicles.
- Service Specials: Miller Toyota’s website features service specials, providing discounts on maintenance and repair services.
Contacting The Sales Team For Personalized Assistance
Contacting the sales team at Miller Toyota is another great way to find the best deals and incentives on Toyota vehicles, as their sales professionals can provide personalized assistance and guidance. You can reach Miller Toyota’s sales team by phone at +1 (208) 376-8888 or by visiting their dealership at 208 N Maple Grove Rd, Boise, ID 83704, United States.
- Product Knowledge: Miller Toyota’s sales team has extensive product knowledge and can help you find the perfect vehicle to meet your needs and budget.
- Negotiation Skills: Miller Toyota’s sales team is skilled at negotiation and can help you get the best possible price on your new or used vehicle.
- Financing Options: Miller Toyota’s sales team can help you explore financing options and find a loan or lease that fits your budget.
Exploring Financing Options And Lease Programs
Exploring financing options and lease programs is essential for finding the best deals and incentives on Toyota vehicles at Miller Toyota. Miller Toyota offers a variety of financing options and lease programs to suit different credit situations and financial goals.
- Financing Options: Miller Toyota works with a network of lenders to provide competitive financing rates and terms.
- Lease Programs: Miller Toyota offers flexible lease programs that allow you to drive a new Toyota for a set period of time with lower monthly payments.
- Credit Assistance: Miller Toyota offers credit assistance to customers with challenged credit, helping them get approved for a loan or lease.
Ready to experience the Toyota difference? Visit millertoyota.net today to explore our extensive inventory, schedule a service appointment, or contact our friendly team for personalized assistance. Discover why Toyota is the best choice for reliability, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Don’t miss out on exclusive deals and incentives available only at Miller Toyota in Boise!
FAQ: Is Toyota The Best Car Manufacturer?
1. Is Toyota really the most reliable car brand?
Yes, Toyota is widely regarded as one of the most reliable car brands, with a long history of producing dependable vehicles.
2. What makes Toyota cars so reliable?
Toyota cars are reliable due to rigorous quality control, simple and functional design, and durable components.
3. Which Toyota models are known for their reliability?
The Toyota Corolla, Toyota Camry, and Toyota Prius are particularly known for their exceptional reliability.
4. How does Toyota’s hybrid technology contribute to reliability?
Toyota’s hybrid technology enhances reliability through regenerative braking and efficient Synergy Drive systems.
5. Does Toyota have good resale value?
Yes, Toyota consistently ranks high in resale value studies, retaining its value over time.
6. What safety features does Toyota offer?
Toyota offers Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), Star Safety System, and advanced airbag systems for comprehensive safety.
7. How does Toyota prioritize environmental sustainability?
Toyota reduces emissions, conserves resources, and promotes recycling in its manufacturing and vehicle design.
8. Is Miller Toyota in Boise a reputable dealership?
Yes, Miller Toyota in Boise is known for exceptional customer service and expertise.
9. How can I find the best deals on Toyota vehicles at Miller Toyota?
Visit millertoyota.net, contact the sales team, and explore financing options for the best deals.
10. Why should I choose a Toyota over other car brands?
Toyota offers reliability, innovation, safety, and environmental sustainability, making it a top choice for car buyers.