Toyota introduced a concept Lexus automobile on Wednesday that would go on sale by 2026 and has a range of about 1,000 kilometers. This is a part of the Japanese automaker’s strategy shift to electric vehicles (EVs) that depend on sophisticated battery technology. Simultaneously, the Japanese automaker disclosed that it had started the process of increasing production capacity in India.
At the Japan Mobility Show, Toyota Motor Corporation’s Executive Vice President and Board Member Yoichi Miyazaki declared that the business has started the process of increasing manufacturing capacity in India. Toyota is currently considering opening a third facility in the nation, as its current two are operating at maximum capacity.
Using “prismatic, high-performance” batteries, the LF-ZC concept car made its premiere at the Japan Mobility Show. Its range is approximately double that of a typical EV, or about 1,000 kilometers (620 miles). At a press announcement showcasing the concept car, Toyota Chief Branding Officer Simon Humphries stated, “Parts minimalization and reduction across the board, including smaller, more efficient batteries with more power and more range, is key to achieving these breakthroughs.”
The top-selling carmaker in the world unveiled an ambitious strategy to increase the number of battery electric vehicles (EVs) in June. Part of the plan included the introduction of next-generation lithium-ion batteries, which have longer ranges and faster charging times.
Additionally, it claimed to have made a “breakthrough” in solving issues related to solid-state batteries’ durability that had previously been noted. It wants to launch cars using solid-state batteries by 2027 or 2028. Because of their performance and range, solid-state batteries are seen as a possible “game changer” for the industry.
The low-slung LF-ZC features a roomy cockpit and Toyota’s cutting-edge AI “Butler” technology. According to Toyota, the AI system can recognize preferences that drivers might not be aware of. By 2035, Toyota plans for battery electric vehicles to represent all sales of the luxury Lexus brand worldwide.
Toyota’s increased production capacity in India
On the fringes of the Japan Mobility Show, Toyota Motor Corporation’s Executive Vice President and Board Member Yoichi Miyazaki declared that the business has started the process of increasing manufacturing capacity in India, where two factories are operating at full capacity.
According to him, the corporation has utilized all of its plant capacity in India. When asked if the corporation is planning to make new investments in capacity expansion in the nation, he responded, “We have started a discussion (on the matter),” Miyazaki continued, saying that after COVID, India’s desire for cars—especially those in higher trim levels—has increased. Toyota Kirloskar Motor, a joint venture between Kirloskar Group and Toyota Motor Company, is situated in Bengaluru and runs two factories with a combined annual manufacturing capacity of 3.42 lakh units.
Due to increased demand and lengthy wait times for some items, the carmaker is currently considering establishing a third facility in India. The carmaker should take heart from the fact that bigger automobiles are starting to be accepted more readily in the Indian auto industry, according to Miyazaki.
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