Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET), a franchised distributor of Toyota vehicles, announced that it has sold its 5 millionth vehicle and given it away free to the lucky customer. A prize patrol of company officials took Karen Petty, 56, of Cape Coral, Fla. by surprise at her home on Aug. 22, presenting her with congratulatory roses and a check for $25,503.07, the full amount of Petty's new 2003 Toyota Camry LE. The car was sold by Will Barrios of Ft. Myers Toyota in Ft. Myers, Fla.

"Achieving this milestone is a direct result of the dedicated dealer organization of Southeast Toyota and their continuous drive to provide the best in customer care," said SET President Ken Czubay. "We wanted to show our appreciation to our customers for helping us to reach this milestone and what better way than to give our 5 millionth customer an appropriate 'thank you' -- a free vehicle."

According to Czubay, in 1968 when SET Founder and Honorary Chairman Jim Moran was awarded the franchise to distribute Toyotas, he instinctively knew it was destined for greatness. "It remains as the premier product on the road today with the highest quality accessories, parts, and service support," says Czubay. "Our customers understand that they are getting the finest quality cars and trucks available at the best price and that means incredible value."

"This is the best," said a stunned Petty when she was told of her good fortune. "I love my Camry. The whole experience at the dealership was great. They treat you with such respect. This came at such a wonderful time. Thank you just doesn't seem like enough."

SET dealers sell approximately 20 percent or one of every five Toyotas sold in the country. In 2002, SET sold 280,431 vehicles, says the company.

Czubay says SET's future looks brighter than ever. Backed by new hybrid technology, an entirely new product line by Toyota called Scion that targets youthful Y Generation consumers, quality products and services and dedicated associates, he's already looking forward to the company's six millionth vehicle celebration.

Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC

Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC, (SET) (www.buyatoyota.com) says it is the largest, exclusive franchised distributor of Toyotas in the world. The company distributes vehicles, parts and accessories to 165 Toyota dealerships in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina and South Carolina. Major divisions include Vehicle Processing, Parts Supply and Distribution, and Parts and Service Support and are located in Deerfield Beach and Jacksonville, Fla. and Commerce, Ga.