Toyota is bolstering its engine factory in the UK in preparation for the launch of European manufacture of its fifth-generation hybrid electric powertrain. About £465,000 is helping Toyota Manufacturing UK (TMUK) modernise the production line for the 1.8-liter gasoline engine used by the new system at its Deeside, North Wales, factory.
Toyota’s newest hybrid technology will make its debut in a redesigned Corolla lineup, comprising a hatchback and a touring sports variant, in 2023. These vehicles will be manufactured by TMUK in Burnaston, Derbyshire. Turkey’s new Corolla Saloon will also have engines from TMUK.
Power is increased, performance is enhanced, and the powertrain is easier to operate all because the fifth-generation powertrain’s electric motors are smaller and lighter.
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Poland (TMMP) is the European hub for the production of hybrid electric transmission components such motor-generators and electrical systems, and the company is investing around £70 million there.
TMUK and TMMP’s fourth-generation hybrid electric system, which they have been making since 2016 and 2018, has been superseded by this new technology.
Marvin Cooke, Toyota Motor Europe executive vice president for manufacturing, said: “Toyota’s affordable, low emission hybrid electrified vehicles have an important role to play in our pan-European multi-technology strategy, which seeks to help everyone reduce their carbon emissions.
“Hybrid technology now features in 85 and 70 per cent respectively of the engines and transmissions produced at TMUK and TMMP, which is a reflection of the ever-growing customer demand for Toyota hybrid products.”