Toyota has officially announced that its next battery-electric vehicle (BEV) will be manufactured in the Czech Republic, marking a significant expansion of the company’s European production footprint. The investment highlights Toyota’s growing commitment to electrification while also strengthening its industrial presence in Central Europe.
The project is not only about building a new electric model but also about developing a modernized manufacturing hub that supports Toyota’s long-term “multi-pathway” strategy, which includes hybrid, plug-in hybrid, hydrogen, and battery-electric vehicles.
Expansion of Toyota’s Czech Manufacturing Plant
Toyota’s Czech Republic plant, located in Kolín, currently produces two key models: the Toyota Aygo X and the Toyota Yaris. To prepare for the next-generation BEV, the company will invest €680 million (£592 million) in expanding and upgrading this facility.
Key Expansion Details:
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Factory size increase: from 152,000m² to 173,000m²
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New facilities: battery production line, advanced paint shop, and welding facility
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Capacity growth: the plant will surpass its existing annual production of 220,000 cars
This investment demonstrates Toyota’s strategy of building electrified vehicles close to its European customers while strengthening local supply chains.
Summary Table
Key Information |
Details |
|---|---|
Company |
Toyota Motor Corporation |
Project |
Production of next battery-electric vehicle (BEV) |
Location |
Kolín, Czech Republic |
Current Models Produced |
Toyota Aygo X, Toyota Yaris |
Investment Amount |
€680 million (£592 million) |
Factory Expansion |
From 152,000m² to 173,000m² |
New Facilities |
Battery production line, paint shop, welding facility |
Annual Capacity |
To exceed 220,000 cars |
Components Sourcing |
Majority from within the Czech Republic |
Expected Model Platform |
TNGA-B (same as Yaris) |
Strategy |
Multi-pathway (hybrid, plug-in hybrid, hydrogen, BEV) |
Official Website |
Local Sourcing of Components
In line with Toyota’s policy of contributing to local economies, the majority of the components for the new BEV will be sourced from within the Czech Republic. This approach will:
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Shorten supply chains
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Reduce costs and logistics challenges
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Support local suppliers and create new job opportunities
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Increase the plant’s resilience to global disruptions
By sourcing components domestically, Toyota is reinforcing its role as a long-term industrial partner in the Czech Republic and across the European Union.
Multi-Pathway Production Strategy
Toyota has not yet revealed the exact design or specifications of the new electric model. However, the company referred to its “multi-pathway” production approach, which means offering a range of powertrains to meet diverse customer needs and regional energy infrastructures.
Possible Model Characteristics:
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Likely based on the TNGA-B platform, the same structure underpinning the Yaris and Yaris Cross
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Could be a compact Europe-focused EV, given Toyota’s strategy to meet European emission targets and market demands
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Positioned to compete in the small-car segment, one of Europe’s most important categories
The decision to produce the model in Europe suggests Toyota is tailoring the vehicle to local preferences, regulations, and charging infrastructure.
Significance for Toyota in Europe
This move marks a milestone for Toyota in its European electrification journey. The company already produces hybrids at several plants in Europe and has set ambitious goals for CO₂ reduction in line with EU regulations.
Strategic Benefits:
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Strengthens Toyota’s position in the European EV market
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Expands the company’s footprint in Central Europe
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Enhances supply chain localization
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Positions Toyota to compete more effectively against European and Korean EV manufacturers
Broader Industry Context
Toyota has historically been cautious with its transition to fully electric vehicles, preferring a balanced approach with hybrids and hydrogen alongside BEVs. However, stricter EU emissions regulations and growing demand for zero-emission vehicles are accelerating its push toward electrification.
By expanding its Czech plant, Toyota ensures it can adapt quickly to market shifts while also meeting regulatory targets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Which Toyota models are currently produced in the Czech Republic?
A. The Kolín plant currently produces the Toyota Aygo X and the Toyota Yaris.
Q2: How much is Toyota investing in this new project?
A. Toyota will invest €680 million (£592 million) to expand and upgrade the Czech Republic plant.
Q3: What is the plant’s annual production capacity after expansion?
A. The expanded plant will exceed its current capacity of 220,000 cars per year.
Q4: What type of new facilities are being added?
A. The investment will fund a new battery production line, a state-of-the-art paint shop, and a welding facility.
Q5: When will the new BEV be unveiled?
A. Toyota has not yet announced the launch date or official details of the upcoming electric model.
Q6: Will the new EV be sold globally?
A. While Toyota has not confirmed distribution, the reference to a Europe-focused EV suggests it will be primarily aimed at European markets.
Conclusion
Toyota’s decision to build its next BEV in the Czech Republic represents a major step in the company’s European electrification strategy. With a €680 million investment, the expansion of the Kolín plant will not only increase production capacity but also enhance local supply chains and strengthen Toyota’s competitive position in the EV sector.
The yet-to-be-named model is expected to be compact, Europe-focused, and aligned with Toyota’s multi-pathway approach, ensuring it meets the varied mobility needs of European customers.
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