Toyota Accelerates Electrification Plans

Toyota Motor Corp. aims to sell 5.5 million electrified vehicles per year by 2025, which is five years earlier than the company previously targeted.

As with the earlier forecast, which was set in 2017, the new plan will include a mix of hybrid and pure-electric models. Sales of battery and fuel cell-powered EVs alone are expected to total 1 million units by 2025, according to the revised estimate.

The new plan, which was detailed by research and development chief Shigeki Terashi, calls for electrified versions of every Toyota and Lexus model by 2025. Terashi’s presentation can be viewed HERE.

Toyota also plans to unveil a vehicle powered by a solid-state battery in time for the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. The technology promises to significantly increase the driving range and charging capacity of EV batteries.

The EV rollout will start with at least 10 models due early next decade. Among them is an “ultra-compact” two-seater (right) that will bow in Japan next year. By that time, the carmaker also plans to begin mass production of EVs in China.

The rapid growth targets will require working with a variety of partners. Earlier this week, Toyota and Subaru agreed to jointly develop a chassis that will support for at least six midsize and large electric vehicle variants (above). Toyota and its Daihatsu subsidiary also are working with Suzuki to develop a compact EV.