Toyota Takes the Lead in European Commercial Vehicle Market
Looking to assert its dominance in the European commercial vehicle market, Toyota is rolling out an ambitious plan to upgrade and expand its range of commercial vehicles. The automaker aims to crack the top 6 spots among commercial vehicle manufacturers in Europe.
Modernizing Toyota's Offerings
Toyota is diving headfirst into revamping its commercial vehicle portfolio. The popular Proace family is getting an extended lineup and a facelift, while the iconic Hilux pick-up is set to receive a mild-hybrid drive. In addition, there might even be a hydrogen version of its platform truck in the near future.
Proace Max
The Proace Max, a brand-new entry in Toyota's commercial lineup, is set to mark its debut in the 3.5-ton class. The van shares similar construction with Stellantis Group's Fiat Ducato, Opel Movano, Peugeot Boxer, and Citroen Jumper, resulting from Toyota's cooperation with Stellantis.
The Proace Max is available in various body styles, including panel van, estate, chassis, tipper, and flatbed. It features diesel engines with power outputs ranging from 88 kW/120 hp to 121 kW/161 hp, in addition to a 200 kW/270 hp electric variant. With a standard range of 420 kilometers, the Proace Max can travel an impressive 17 cubic meters, with a payload of 1.5 tons, reaching 75 kilograms higher than its diesel counterpart.
Electrifying Proace and Proace City
The refreshed Proace and Proace City models are due for release in the spring. The upgraded vans will sport a redesigned front with chrome and silver trim parts on the grille. Inside, you'll notice a new infotainment system.
The battery-electric versions have also seen improvements. The Proace Electric now boasts a 350-kilometer range with a 75 kWh battery, an increase of 20 kilometers. Meanwhile, the Proace City Electric comes with an extended 330-kilometer range, a jump of 50 kilometers. Despite these adjustments, the load compartment volume and payload capacity remain comparable to their conventional counterparts.
New Features for the Hilux Pick-up
Hilux pick-up fans will be thrilled with the latest updates. Set to debut alongside the familiar diesel models, the Hilux pick-up is introducing a new 48-volt mild hybrid drive system. Powered by a 2.8-liter four-cylinder diesel engine with 150 kW/204 hp, the new system should yield about 10% better fuel efficiency.
Fuel Cell Testing
Toyota engineers are currently testing a hydrogen fuel cell version of its commercial vehicle, which could potentially travel up to 600 kilometers on just 7.8 kilograms of hydrogen gas. The catch? One of the hydrogen tanks has to be placed on the loading area, limiting its practicality. Should the drive system prove successful, series production could become a reality – even in small quantities.
Venturing into Hydrogen and Beyond
Toyota is not content with just electrifying its passenger vehicles; the brand is also investing in hydrogen fuel cell technology for commercial vehicles. The goal is to decrease carbon emissions while remaining in line with European sustainability goals.
Partnership, Innovation, and Growth Strategy
To further bolster its market position, Toyota is forging partnerships, launching innovation platforms, and devising a strategic growth plan. Key initiatives include:
- Hydrogen Factory: Toyota's European Hydrogen Factory aims to accelerate the development and manufacturing of hydrogen fuel cell systems.
- Engine Development: To improve development and production efficiencies, Toyota is strengthening its engine production capacity, particularly for diesel engines.
- Innovation Platforms: Toyota Open Labs connects SMEs with Toyota's business units, enabling collaboration in six strategic fields, including the BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) Energy Ecosystem, Hydrogen Ecosystem, and Circular Economy.
- Market Growth: Toyota's commercial vehicle sales in Europe have experienced impressive growth, placing it among Europe's top commercial vehicle manufacturers.
By focusing on these key areas, Toyota is poised to succeed in the burgeoning European commercial vehicle market and ascend to the top 6 positions among commercial vehicle manufacturers.
