Toyota Motor Corporation recently held a technical briefing session, “Toyota Technical Workshop,” under the theme “Let’s Change the Future of Cars” and announced a variety of new technologies that will support its transformation into a mobility company.
Hiroki Nakajima, Executive Vice President, and Chief Technology Officer, explained Toyota’s technology strategy and the direction of future car manufacturing. In addition, he spoke on specific and diverse technologies, including concepts under development, which will help achieve the vision and policies that have been communicated so far. Also speaking were Takero Kato, who has been appointed president of the newly established BEV Factory, and Mitsumasa Yamagata, who is scheduled to be appointed president of the Hydrogen Factory to be launched in July. They elaborated on their respective strategies for the battery EV and hydrogen businesses.
Toyota’s technology strategy and car manufacturing direction, led by Hiroki Nakajima, Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer, emphasizes three key approaches: electrification, intelligence, and diversification. The company aims to develop optimal powertrains for different regions, promote intelligent vehicles and services, and expand its connection with society. Toyota is also focused on safety, global collaboration, and localization to meet customer needs. With a track record of innovative vehicles like the Prius and Mirai, Toyota aims to use technology to shape the future of transportation and create a more connected society.
Toyota’s Next Generation Battery EV Strategy, led by Takero Kato, the BEV Factory President, aims to revolutionize the future of electric vehicles (EVs). By focusing on vehicle advancements, including next-generation batteries and AI-supported aerodynamics, Toyota plans to achieve a remarkable cruising range of 1,000 km. The company also prioritizes innovative manufacturing techniques, such as modular structures and giga casting, to reduce costs and improve efficiency. With a global rollout of next-generation BEVs by 2026, Toyota aims to become a world leader in battery EV energy consumption. The company’s vision is to create inspiring and customer-centric EVs that exceed expectations and capture hearts worldwide.
Toyota’s Hydrogen Business Strategy, led by Mitsumasa Yamagata, the Hydrogen Factory President (effective July 1, 2023), focuses on capitalizing on the growing fuel cell market. Toyota aims to establish itself as a major player in the hydrogen industry by promoting external sales of fuel cells and expanding its presence in key markets. The strategy includes localizing R&D and production, strengthening alliances with partners, and advancing competitive next-generation fuel cell technologies.
Toyota aims to achieve cost reduction, volume efficiency, and localization to drive full-scale commercialization. Additionally, the company emphasizes collaboration with partners to address the high cost of hydrogen and contribute to its widespread use. The goal is to establish customer-oriented bases, offer affordable products, and meet the expectations of customers and governments alike.
