Despite Toyota’s push for electric mobility, the automaker’s president Akio Toyoda is still doubtful about electric vehicles (EVs). He believes that the “silent majority of the auto industry worldwide is still doubtful about electric cars.” He also added that to achieve greener mobility solutions, electric vehicles are not the only option, as there are other choices like hybrids and hydrogen-powered cars.
This is not the first time Akio Toyoda expressed his doubt about EVs. Speaking about the focus on electric vehicles, Toyoda said he is among the auto industry’s silent majority in questioning whether electric vehicles should be adopted exclusively, reported the Wall Street Journal. Akio said:
“People involved in the auto industry are largely a silent majority. That silent majority is wondering whether EVs are really OK to have as a single option. But they think it’s the trend, so they can’t speak out loudly.”
However, the Japanese automaker is also trying to cope with the rising demand and number of EVs worldwide with its own electrification strategy. This renders a lot of confusion within Toyota regarding EVs as at one point the company seems to be pushing towards achieving EV goals while at time it looks to be holding back.
Related: Toyota to Readjust its EV Strategy to Compete with Tesla and BYD
While major traditional rivals including General Motors and Honda, have already set strict timelines for their complete transition to fully electric vehicles, Toyota has stuck to a strategy of investing in a diverse lineup of greener vehicles that includes hydrogen-powered cars and hybrids, which combine batteries with internal combustion engines. According to Akio, the right answer to the question of whether OEMs should focus only on EVs is still unclear, adding that “we shouldn’t limit ourselves to just one option.”
The Toyota chief’s comment comes at a time when automakers worldwide are making big bets on pure electric vehicles. Car brands worldwide have made huge investments in their EV projects. However, despite the rising demands and OEMs investing more money, challenges are mounting for the manufacturers, especially in securing components and battery raw materials.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
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