Toyota has recently announced its roadmap for developing next-generation EVs marked by plans to offer solid-state EV batteries that could cover over 900 miles of driving range. Moreover, the roadmap demonstrates that the automaker aims to have these batteries in mass production by 2027-2028. Additionally, Toyota is looking forward to downsizing various key EV components, including gears, motors, trains, and inverters, with its “small eAxle.” Furthermore, to improve aerodynamics and ensure profitable EVs in the future, Toyota has made plans to integrate hypersonic tech and incorporate a simpler and slimmer vehicle body structure through “Giga casting.”
As part of its plan to reduce global carbon emissions and expand its electric vehicle (EV) lineup, Toyota has stated its plans to produce solid-state batteries. Part of the company’s ambition in this sector is to have the battery technology in operation by 2027 with charging times expected to take 10 minutes or less. Consequently, Toyota plans to offer 1.5 million EVs worldwide by 2026.
Lithium-ion batteries have remained the most common source of energy employed in EVs to date. However, Toyota is currently innovating this technology, and the solid-state battery innovations could unlock many benefits. Solid-state batteries use a solid electrolyte rather than the liquids or gels conventionally used in most EV batteries. They are less susceptible to overheating or fire, and this technology is better suited to fast charging and is denser than the traditional liquid-type batteries, making them ideal for high-performance models.
Toyota has even developed a mass production method and plans to commercialize these batteries between 2027 or 2028. Such improvements in weight reduction and aerodynamics, coupled with solid-state batteries, could offer an EV with a range of up to 745 miles. Toyota aims to enhance its current prismatic cell batteries and anticipates releasing a version capable of delivering 620 miles of range by 2026.
Another feature of Toyota’s innovative plan is the investment of $2.1bn in a hybrid-vehicle battery factory in Greensboro. Toyota’s drive into EVs is underlined by this move as the factory aims to provide batteries to Georgetown, where the automaker’s first US-built EV, an SUV with three rows of seats, is undergoing production. Although Toyota has faced criticism over its slow entry into the EV market, the company has defended its approach, arguing that gasoline-electric hybrids, such as its Prius model, are more practical and relevant than battery-powered vehicles in some markets.
To increase its focus on EVs, Toyota aims to establish a specialist unit for next-generation battery technology. The automaker has recently reiterated its commitment towards the creation of a “hydrogen society” with the emphasis on fuel cell vehicles.
In conclusion, despite its unique perspective on EVs, Toyota is making brilliant strides in the global race towards vehicle electrification and decarbonization. The company’s roadmap for producing next-generation EVs, durable batteries, and emphasis on reducing global emissions guarantees a better and cleaner future for both the company and planet.
