Not being able to see any way to approach the headlamps of my Masterace from the front, I investigated the black curved covers in the footwells. I found that they removed quite easily,by removing two M4 bolts from the base of the plate and slackening one bolt at the top. Pushing the rubber grommet out allowed the plate to be moved to one side and gave direct access to the bulb mountings on both dipping and full beam units.

- (#10460) Alan Gustard, 31 Aug 03 15:33

That was Toyota's reason for the plates. However on the drivers side the foot pedals get in the way and if you have climate control there is no way you can get at the passenger side without losing some skin.
It may be an easier way for the twin headlight setup, but not for the combined unit where sidelight and center panel are removed to expose the headlight bolts.
I know it's 5 (or 7 if you are doing both sides) more bolts/screws, but you have more room and can see what you are doing.

- (#10690) Clive, 2 Sep 03 1:56