Shanghai (ZXZC)- As the electric vehicle market in China continues to expand, Toyota Motor Corporation ("Toyota") has taken a significant step towards providing Chinese customers with satisfactory and competitive electric products by strengthening its local R&D efforts in intelligent and electric technologies.

IEM by TOYOTA; photo credit: Toyota China

Thus, the Japanese automaker has decided to take these initiatives:

(1) On August 1st, Toyota's largest R&D base in China, Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (China) Co., Ltd. ("TMEC"), will be officially renamed as Intelligent ElectroMobility R&D Center by TOYOTA (China) CO., Ltd. ("IEM by TOYOTA").

(2) Engineers from Toyota's three joint venture companies in China, namely FAW Toyota Motor Co., Ltd., GAC Toyota Motor Co., Ltd., and BYD Toyota EV Technology Co., Ltd., will join the research projects led by IEM by TOYOTA, breaking down organizational barriers.

(3) In the electrification field, multiple pathways will be explored to achieve carbon neutrality, boosting the local R&D of various electric vehicles (BEV, PHEV, HEV, FCEV). Companies such as Denso and Aisin will also participate in IEM by TOYOTA's R&D activities, accelerating the development of electric powertrains.

(4) In the realm of intelligence, the focus will be on utilizing spatial design and AI technology to accelerate the design and development of intelligent cabins that provide better user experiences, as well as advanced safety technologies and autonomous driving technology tailored to China's unique road conditions.

(5) To enhance competitiveness in electrification and intelligentization fields, Toyota aims to significantly reduce manufacturing costs through measures in three areas: "expanding local suppliers," "improving component design," and "reforming production technology and manufacturing processes."Tatsuro Ueda, CEO of Toyota China Region, expressed that the Chinese automotive market is developing at an unprecedented pace. As Toyota, the company is fully committed to the Chinese market, uniting as a group and embracing changes in work processes and mindset. By prioritizing local R&D through IEM by TOYOTA, Toyota aims to rapidly develop and provide products that satisfy Chinese customers and remain competitive. Furthermore, the research achievements and experience gained in China will not only benefit the Chinese market but also contribute to global markets.