Toyota is ramping up its electric vehicle (EV) capabilities with a significant investment of nearly $50 million in a forthcoming battery laboratory. The lab, set to open its doors in 2025, will be based at Toyota Motor North America’s R&D headquarters in Michigan. Its primary purpose is to assess and enhance EV batteries, covering the entire journey from individual cells to complete battery packs. This facility will play a crucial role in supporting Toyota’s manufacturing endeavors at plants located in North Carolina and Kentucky.
The new Michigan battery lab will be instrumental in ensuring that Toyota’s EV batteries align with the preferences and needs of North American customers. The lab will focus on scrutinizing battery performance, quality, and durability, all with the aim of delivering top-notch automotive batteries tailored to the region’s requirements. The lab’s operations are scheduled to commence in 2025.
Shinichi Yasui, Executive Vice President of Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) Research and Development, emphasized that this investment showcases Toyota’s strategic shift toward electrification and the company’s commitment to catering to customer demands. This move aligns with Toyota’s broader vision of an electrified future.
The lab’s role extends beyond battery evaluation. It will collaborate with North American suppliers to integrate locally-sourced battery components and materials. This supports Toyota’s comprehensive approach to carbon emission reduction through its diverse array of electrified products, including hybrids, plug-in hybrids, fuel cells, and battery electric vehicles.
Beyond battery development, the lab will explore Level 2 and Level 3 charging evaluations, power source connectivity, and infrastructure integration. Moreover, Toyota’s investment will upgrade chassis dynamometers at its R&D campuses to accommodate thorough evaluations of full battery electric vehicles.
Jordan Choby, Group Vice President of Powertrain at TMNA R&D, highlighted the significance of this new facility in terms of enhancing local infrastructure and fostering technology development. He emphasized its adaptability to evolving technology trends and business needs.
This forward-looking lab will also play a crucial role in Toyota’s research into new battery configurations for future products and electrified vehicle architectures. The facility’s capabilities are poised for expansion, which will further bolster Toyota’s contribution to the evolving battery and EV ecosystem.
Notably, the lab’s energy needs will be catered to by DTE Energy’s MIGreenPower program, aligning with Toyota’s commitment to sustainable practices.
As a pioneer in the EV landscape, Toyota’s move to establish this advanced battery lab underscores its dedication to shaping the future of electric mobility. With a rich history of electrified vehicle offerings, the company is striving to provide electrified options across its Toyota and Lexus model lineup globally by 2025. This substantial investment in battery research and development reflects Toyota’s commitment to driving the EV revolution forward.