Toyota bets on electric vehicles in Europe

At the opening of Toyota's Kenshiki Forum, the message was clear: there is no single technological solution for all customers. "Carbon is the enemy, not the powertrains," they declared at the outset, signaling the world's largest automaker's commitment to all its engine developments, aiming to offer a versatile solution in every market segment.

This includes combustion engines, hydrogen engines—both fuel cell and combustion—hybrids that have secured the top position in global markets, and, despite initial reluctance, pure electric vehicles.

In 2024, Toyota achieved a record sales figure of 1.21 million vehicles in Europe, closing the year with a market penetration of over 7% in the EU, where 77% of what is sold is manufactured locally. The company had set a goal to launch six zero-emission models by 2026, and with those presented in Brussels, it has surpassed its targets.

Europe is the focus for decarbonized mobility due to stricter emission limits for manufacturers, despite the European Commission extending the CAFE regulation measurement deadlines to 2027.

Therefore, the brand's product launches will focus on electric engines for the B, C, and D segments, the latter being SUVs. For these new models, Toyota is working on the evolution of the e-TNGA electric platform, which supports higher capacity batteries and a charging power of up to 150 kW.

Additionally, Japanese engineers have developed a battery preconditioning system that optimizes charging and ensures that the accumulators will retain up to 70% of their useful capacity 10 years later, or after one million kilometers.

The main novelty unveiled in Brussels was the arrival of the C-HR+, an electric version with up to 343 horsepower of its best-seller in the C segment. The design is similar to the second generation of this model, but there is an evolution in the lines, which are unique to this model.

The C-HR+ shares its powertrain with another launch, the new bZ4X, which falls into the D segment. It will enter the market with two different batteries, one of 49 and another of 61 kWh, with a lithium-iron-phosphate chemistry that reduces costs.

Finally, Toyota also presented the Urban Cruiser, a compact SUV at the upper end of the short-wheelbase B segment, allowing agile handling in the city. It will feature a rear bench seat displacement system to maximize cabin space and will offer the two batteries used in the bZ4X.