Toyota announced its intent to start manufacturing next-gen Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) in 2026, marking its dedication to sustainability and advancements in BEV tech for better performance and affordability.
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WASHINGTON, DC - JULY 23: A hybrid Toyota vehicle is displayed during the Electrify Expo In D.C. on July 23, 2023 in Washington, DC. The expo highlighted new and soon-to-be-released electric cars, bikes and other technology.
Revealing New BEVs
Toyota recently revealed its plans to commence production of the next-generation Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) in 2026. The automaker has been steadily increasing its focus on BEVs, introducing the "Beyond Zero" (bZ) brand a few years ago, with the bZ4X leading the charge in 2021.
Interesting Engineering reported that this move underscores Toyota's commitment to sustainability and its determination to enhance BEV technology for improved performance and affordability.
The upcoming BEVs from Toyota will undergo a transformation in design and manufacturing, featuring an array of state-of-the-art batteries meticulously engineered to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of Toyota's customer base.
Takero Kato, the President of Toyota's BEV Factory, emphasized the necessity for a range of battery options to match the diversity of Toyota's vehicle models and customer preferences, comparing it to the variety of engine options.
He disclosed that out of the 3.5 million BEVs Toyota plans to sell by 2030, 1.7 million will be next-generation vehicles. Kato stressed the importance of making BEVs attractive to a broad spectrum of customers, which demands the utilization of multiple battery technologies.
Introducing Four Next-Gen Batteries
As per its statement, Toyota presented its innovative next-gen batteries, categorized as 'Performance,' 'Popularized,' 'High Performance,' and 'Solid-state batteries,' each featuring advancements in liquid and solid electrolyte technology.
For instance, the 'Performance' Li-Ion battery, set to accompany the new cars in 2026, enhances BEV range to over 800km when coupled with improved vehicle aerodynamics and reduced weight. Additionally, these cars will see a 20% cost reduction and boast a rapid 20-minute recharge time.
Toyota has harnessed its proven bipolar technology, initially validated in NiMh hybrid electric vehicle batteries, and combined it with cost-effective lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO) as the fundamental material to develop the 'Popularized' battery.
This innovative choice is poised to deliver a remarkable 40% cost reduction and a swift 30-minute recharge time. To further push the boundaries and achieve a cruising range exceeding 1000km, Toyota is unveiling the 'High-Performance' battery.
Electrek reported that the battery incorporates the bipolar structure, Li-Ion chemistry, and a high-nickel cathode. The result is a remarkable 20% cost reduction and a rapid 20-minute recharging time.
Also Rread: Toyota's Solid State EV Battery is On Track for 2025, Promises 900 Miles of Range Alongside Panasonic
In a recent technical briefing held in July, Toyota unveiled its ambitious plans to develop solid-state batteries for its upcoming vehicles. This breakthrough in battery technology promises an impressive range of 745 miles on a single charge.
Toyota has set its sights on achieving this milestone by 2025, with initial emphasis on the limited production of these cutting-edge power cells.
Related Article: Next-Gen Toyota EVs Could Have Simulated Manual Transmissions
