Toyota’s zero-emission push: converting older models to meet goals

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Toyota is pushing for a more sustainable transportation future by proposing the replacement of internal components of existing vehicles with cleaner technology such as fuel cells and electric motors.

During an industry event in Tokyo, Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda stated, “I don’t want to leave any car lover behind.” The message was clear, Toyota wants to make it known that they have not fallen behind in the electric vehicle market as some have suggested.

Toyota, known for its Lexus luxury brands and Prius hybrid, has the resources and expertise to remain a strong competitor in the green vehicle market. Toyoda acknowledged that it would take a significant amount of time for all cars to become zero-emission and suggested that converting existing cars to be more environmentally friendly would be a better option.

Toyoda also aims to debunk the stereotype that clean cars are not as exciting to drive as traditional cars. At the event, Toyota showcased its “conversion” strategy by displaying videos of its successful world rally and battery-electric and hydrogen-powered versions of the Toyota AE86 series, including the Toyota Corolla Levin.

The automotive industry is undergoing a major shift as concerns about climate change continue to grow. Automakers are often blamed for their impact on the environment. Toyoda stated that while ecological efforts in the auto industry are starting to be appreciated in many nations, he feels less appreciated in Japan.

While Toyota has dominated the industry with its hybrid technology in the Prius, it has been criticized for its slow adoption of fully electric vehicles. Battery electric vehicles currently make up about 20% of the auto market, with Europe leading the way in the transition to electricity.

However, industry analysts have stated that it is still too early to label Japanese automakers as laggards in the green movement, as the shortage of certain components such as lithium may drive up the prices of EVs, causing consumers to stick with hybrids.