Toyota announced its participation as an investor and founding partner in the North American electric vehicle (EV) charging network Ionna, alongside other major automakers such as BMW, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, and Stellantis. The collaborative effort aims to establish at least 30,000 DC fast-charging stations compatible with NACS and CCS charge ports across the US and Canada by 2030, with the initial installations expected in the latter half of 2024.
This initiative is set to enhance the infrastructure for EVs significantly, potentially boosting EV sales in these countries. Toyota Motor North America has confirmed its investment to help develop this high-powered charging network, ensuring that Toyota’s customers in North America will have access to a rapidly growing network of fast chargers.
Ted Ogawa, CEO of Toyota Motor North America, emphasized the strategic importance of this move: “We believe this will not only promote the adoption of BEVs and increase customer confidence in the technology but it will provide our customers with access to Ionna’s rapidly growing charging network in North America.”
Currently, Toyota offers two mass-market BEVs in the US and Canada—the Toyota bZ4X and the Lexus RZ. Plans are on to expand its BEV lineup with two new three-row BEV SUVs slated for local assembly at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK) and Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana (TMMI) plants, respectively.
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Globally, Toyota aims to introduce 30 BEV models by 2030, targeting an annual production of 3.5 million units. This commitment marks a significant step in Toyota’s strategy to enhance its electric vehicle portfolio, aligning with broader industry shifts towards sustainable transportation solutions.
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Words by: Craig Clowes
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www.just-auto.com