Toyota develops innovative PHV engine to compete in market dominated by China’s BYD.
June 3, 2024
Toyota announced the development of a new engine dedicated to plug-in hybrid cars (PHV), to respond to the growing demand for hybrid vehicles and counter Chinese competition, in particular that of BYD which is gaining significant market share with its PHVs. In a time when demand for pure electric vehicles (EVs) is slowing, Toyota has seen the light PHV a viable solution before the total adoption of EVs.
The new engine, specifically designed for PHV use, demonstrates the commitment of Toyota not only towards electrification but also towards the improvement of traditional internal combustion engine technologies. This move is strategic for Toyotawhich aims to maintain its leading position in hybrid and plug-in hybrid technologies, sectors in which the company has a long history, highlighted by the launch of the Prius in 1997 and its PHV version in 2012.
The engine was proposed in versions from 1.5 litres And 2.0 litres, designed with the aim of reducing size and increasing both efficiency and power. The integration of these new engines into PHVs would allow an increase in fuel efficiency of 12%, thanks to improvements in combustion and more compact designs that improve the overall efficiency of the vehicle.
The challenge for Toyota it is not only technological but also market-related, considering the intensification of competition with manufacturers offering low-cost solutions, such as BYD. These manufacturers are rapidly expanding their presence in global markets, offering PHV vehicles at competitive prices. Toyota aimed to counter this trend by leveraging its experience in the HV and PHV sector to offer vehicles that combine the advantages of traditional engines with those of electrification.
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