Toyota is focusing on enhancing its electrification strategy by developing multiple battery packs. The company plans to introduce the lithium-iron-phosphate Popularisation and the lithium-ion Performance packs to cater to different customer needs. The Popularisation pack aims to offer an affordable option, while the Performance pack will provide long-range capabilities.
Toyota is also working on the lithium-ion High Performance pack, which is expected to replace the Performance battery by 2027. This high-performance pack will have a range of 621 miles and will be 10% cheaper compared to the current battery. Takero Kato, president of Toyota’s EV development center, acknowledged the importance of offering battery solutions that are compatible with various models and customer requirements.
In order to improve efficiency, Toyota plans to make the battery packs flatter, which will reduce the overall height of the vehicles. The next-generation models will have a reduced battery height of 120 mm, compared to the current 150 mm height in the bZ4X model. This reduction in height will pave the way for the development of performance-based sports models with a lower battery height of 100 mm.
Toyota aims to introduce solid-state batteries as part of its lineup by 2028. These batteries will utilize solid electrolytes instead of liquid ones, offering improved performance and range. The solid-state batteries will have a range of up to 621 miles and can be charged from 10% to 80% in just 10 minutes using a fast charger. In comparison, the High Performance lithium-ion pack will take up to 20 minutes for the same charging time.
Additionally, Toyota is working on a high-spec solid-state battery with a targeted range of over 750 miles. This technology has the potential to significantly increase the range of electric vehicles without making the batteries larger and heavier. Toyota has already showcased 15 EV concepts, and there are indications that the company’s future vehicles, including the potential successor to the Lexus LFA, could utilize solid-state batteries with unique features like a manual transmission.
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