Toyota Motor Corporation is strategically gearing up for the American electric vehicle (EV) market by planning to produce two all-electric models in the U.S. starting next year, alongside three new imported models within the same timeframe. The company, which aims to have seven EVs in U.S. dealerships by mid-2027, is responding to its commitment to offer an electrified option across its global lineup. Currently, nearly 80% of Toyota and Lexus vehicles sold in the U.S. feature either hybrid or electric powertrains.
To support this increased production, Toyota will commence operations at its lithium-ion battery plant in Liberty, North Carolina, which will supply battery cells for its U.S.-manufactured EVs. The facility is positioned to significantly enhance the company’s battery production capabilities, aiming for over 30 gigawatt-hours at full capacity by 2034, which translates into extensive battery supply for hybrids and all-electric vehicles.
Despite the promising overall growth of EV sales in the U.S., Toyota has struggled to keep pace with competitors, selling fewer than 30,000 all-electric vehicles in the country in 2024. The firm has historically held a critical stance toward rapid EV adoption policies, believing that the market should dictate demand rather than government intervention. However, recognizing the shifting landscape and the anticipated growth of electric vehicles, Toyota is cautiously positioning itself to not lose market share to major rivals like General Motors and Tesla, which currently dominate the sector.
An expert perspective in transportation highlights that Toyota's approach reflects a transitional phase in the automotive industry where manufacturers must navigate shifting consumer preferences and regulatory frameworks. The future of EVs in the U.S. hinges on robust infrastructure, consumer awareness, and competitive pricing, making Toyota's emphasis on battery production critical. As automakers pivot to electrification, the balance of supply chain logistics, market demand forecasting, and export readiness may dictate long-term success in the evolving automotive landscape.