Japan government approves Toyota to produce next-gen EV batteries

ABU DHABI: Toyota Motor Corporation has confirmed that its production and development plans for all-solid-state batteries and next-gen performance batteries have received the certification of the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry. This certification is part of the "Supply Assurance Plan for Batteries" that has been initiated by the Japanese government.

Toyota Battery Co. Ltd. has received the certification to manufacture next-gen batteries and conduct development and research on solid-state batteries. By 2026, Toyota plans to initiate production progressively. Its target is up to 9GWh output annually.

For hybrid models, Toyota-affiliated companies manufacture batteries but are gradually making a shift to all-electric vehicles. At the start of 2024, Toyota acquired Primearth EV Energy, allowing it to cater in a better way to the increasing battery demand. Toyota also plans to partner with its subsidiaries to scale up the diverse range of EV battery production.

Recently, Subaru, Toyota, and Mazda have decided to manufacture carbon-neutral engines, although their hybrid drive systems will be entirely dependent on batteries. It is expected that the necessary battery packs will be supplied for these electrified powertrains.

In 2023, Toyota revealed its EV battery roadmap, which outlined different battery types. It is expected that the first "Performance" batteries will be released in 2026, with "Popularization" batteries expected to be released by the end of 2027.

Also read: BMW and Toyota team up for hydrogen-powered automotive solutions