Toyota has made a significant announcement, revealing plans to commence production of its next-generation Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) in 2026. This decision underscores Toyota’s dedication to electric mobility after years of steadily ramping up efforts in this direction. The introduction of the “Beyond Zero” (bZ) brand a few years ago, with the bZ4X gaining prominence in 2021, showcased Toyota’s commitment to sustainability and electric vehicle innovation.
Toyota is taking a bold step forward by investing in advanced technology to enhance EV performance and affordability. The company aims to develop innovative batteries designed to cater to the diverse needs and expectations of its customers.
“We will need various options for batteries, just like we have different variations of engines. It is important to offer battery solutions compatible with various models and customer needs,” said Takero Kato, president of Toyota’s BEV Factory.
Toyota’s goal is ambitious: to sell 3.5 million BEVs by 2030, with 1.7 million being the next-generation models. They recognize the importance of offering a variety of battery technologies to appeal to a broad range of customers.
Toyota’s battery innovations encompass four key categories: Performance, Popularized, High-Performance, and Solid-State Batteries. The Performance Battery, expected to accompany the new cars in 2026, promises a remarkable cruising range of over 800 kilometers, coupled with a 20% cost reduction and a quick 20-minute recharge.
The Popularized Battery aims to make EVs more accessible by reducing costs by 40% and recharging in just 30 minutes. The High-Performance Battery combines affordability (20% cost reduction) with a 20-minute recharge while extending the cruising range. Finally, Solid-State Batteries, designed with cutting-edge technology, offer a swift 10-minute recharge and increased power output.
In addition to these battery advancements, Toyota plans to refine its bZ lineup by reducing battery sizes and catering to various vehicle types, including high-performance sports cars. In essence, Toyota’s announcement signifies a significant commitment to electric mobility, promising more powerful electric vehicles, that boast longer ranges, charge faster, and come at a lower cost.
These developments hold immense promise for both environmental sustainability and consumer appeal in the ever-evolving world of electric vehicles.