Core Insights - Toyota announced a plan to invest up to $10 billion in the U.S. over the next five years, marking the largest investment by a Japanese automaker since the second Trump administration began [2][6] - The investment aims to expand the production system for hybrid vehicles (HV) and core components in response to strong market demand [2][3] - Despite recent losses in North America, Toyota is committed to increasing local production to improve its integrated production system [3][4] Investment Plans - The $10 billion investment will be used to enhance existing factories, although specific projects and factories have not yet been disclosed [2] - In April, Toyota announced an additional investment of $88 million in a West Virginia plant for HV-specific components [4] Market Performance - Toyota's sales in the U.S. reached 2.07 million units from January to October 2025, an 8% increase year-on-year [3] - The company holds over 50% market share in the U.S. HV market, including its luxury brand Lexus [3] Production Strategy - Toyota is increasing the local production ratio of vehicles and core components that were previously exported from Japan to the U.S. [3] - The CFO of Toyota expressed strong demand from customers for increased HV production, indicating a clear intention to strengthen production capabilities [3] Contextual Factors - The investment announcement coincides with the opening of Toyota's first battery factory in Greensboro, North Carolina, a key swing state in the U.S. elections [6] - The Trump administration's termination of tax incentives for electric vehicles (EV) has created a favorable environment for Toyota's HV offerings [3]

Core Viewpoint - Toyota, as a consistent participant for eight years, showcased its latest developments in China, localized product technology, collaborative achievements with Chinese partners, and diverse solutions for mobility freedom at the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) [2][3][12] Group 1: Product and Technology Innovations - Toyota emphasized its "TO YOU" concept, focusing on creating localized products and solutions tailored to individual user needs, contrasting with typical industry competition strategies [3][10] - The company introduced the bZ series of electric vehicles, including the bZ5 and the GR YARIS, highlighting their unique features and market positioning [5][6][11] - Toyota's hydrogen fuel cell technology was showcased with the 49t hydrogen fuel cell tractor, developed in collaboration with China National Heavy Duty Truck Group, aimed at enhancing green logistics [7][12] Group 2: Market Strategy and Localization - The company is committed to deepening its localization efforts in China, establishing the Lexus (Shanghai) New Energy Co., which combines global product offerings with local production [6][12] - Toyota's R&D system in China, known as RCE, aims to accelerate the development of products that meet local consumer preferences and driving habits [10][12] - The introduction of the "Multi-Pathway" approach in new energy technology reflects Toyota's strategy to provide diverse options for users [4][10] Group 3: Commitment to Sustainability and Mobility for All - Toyota's commitment to "Mobility for All" includes developing vehicles with welfare features for the elderly and disabled, such as the Elfa welfare version and RAV4 welfare trial version [9][12] - The company is actively pursuing carbon neutrality through initiatives like the Sweep energy storage system, which addresses battery recycling challenges [11][12] - Toyota's focus on intelligent manufacturing and collaboration with local partners aims to enhance the overall automotive ecosystem in China [9][12]

Toyota announced Wednesday it has officially begun production at its new $13.9 billion battery manufacturing plant in North Carolina, while committing an additional $10 billion to bolster its U.S. manufacturing over the next five years. The 1,850-acre facility in Liberty, North Carolina, marks the automaker's first battery plant outside Japan and is expected to create up to 5,100 new American jobs, Toyota said. "Today’s launch of Toyota’s first U.S. battery plant and additional U.S. investment up to $10 ...

Core Viewpoint - Toyota is set to unveil its new GR brand, which signifies a new era of high-performance vehicles, with the GR GT supercar being a key highlight of this transition [5][6][12]. Group 1: GR Brand and GR GT Supercar - The GR brand, originating from Toyota's Gazoo Racing division, aims to infuse performance into Toyota's lineup, with models like the GR Corolla and the upcoming GR-Sport RAV4 [7][9]. - The GR GT supercar is expected to be officially launched online on December 5 and will make its physical debut at the Tokyo Auto Salon from January 9 to 11, 2026 [12][23]. - The GR GT will feature a new twin-turbo V8 engine integrated with an electrification system, focusing on performance rather than fuel efficiency [17][18]. Group 2: Technical Specifications and Performance - The GR GT's racing version is projected to produce between 500-600 horsepower, while the road version is expected to reach nearly 700 horsepower, competing with models like the Aston Martin Vantage S [20][21]. - Toyota's strategy includes a "multi-path" approach to performance, maintaining the potential of internal combustion engines while exploring hybrid technologies [20][21]. Group 3: Market Challenges and Sales Strategy - The GR GT's success in the U.S. market faces challenges due to complex dealership laws and the need for a dedicated retail network [30][31]. - Toyota's vision includes establishing GR as an independent brand, but the limited production of the GR GT may hinder the profitability of this model [33][34]. - The historical context of the Lexus LFA's limited production raises concerns about the viability of a standalone GR dealership network [34][35]. Group 4: Future Prospects and Expansion - Beyond the GR GT, Toyota is planning to expand its performance lineup with models like the FT-Se concept car and a potential revival of the Celica nameplate [52][53][54]. - The upcoming Tokyo Auto Salon may showcase not just the GR GT but also signify a broader revival of Toyota's performance heritage [55].

Core Points - Japanese automakers are collectively facing significant profit warnings due to U.S. import tariffs, marking the first time since 2020 that all seven major companies reported profit declines, totaling nearly $10 billion in losses [1][2] - The impact of U.S. tariffs, yen depreciation, supply chain disruptions, and intensified competition are creating a complex environment for Japanese automotive companies, with many executives indicating that the current "severe situation" may become the "new normal" [1][2][3] Group 1: Financial Impact - The seven major Japanese automakers reported a combined profit decline of 27.2% year-on-year, with Nissan, Mazda, and Mitsubishi posting losses, while the remaining four companies also experienced varying degrees of profit declines [2] - Toyota's operating profit in Japan and the U.S. decreased by approximately $4.32 billion, with expected losses from U.S. tariffs reaching about $9.4 billion for the fiscal year, exceeding previous estimates [3] - Honda anticipates a profit reduction of around $2.5 billion for the entire fiscal year due to U.S. tariffs, with executives acknowledging that the profit decline has become a "normal" situation [3] Group 2: Tariff and Trade Agreements - The recent performance warnings from Japanese automakers come shortly after a U.S.-Japan trade agreement, where Japan agreed to invest $55 billion in exchange for a reduction of tariffs on exports to the U.S. [6] - Despite the agreement, the high tariff rates remained applicable for most of the April to September period, leading to an estimated total profit loss of over ¥2.5 trillion for the fiscal year [6] - Executives express concerns that even a reduced tariff rate of 15% will further erode already thin profit margins, with fears that tariffs may persist beyond the current administration [6][8] Group 3: Market Challenges - The Japanese automotive industry is facing multiple challenges, including an unexpected depreciation of the yen, which is currently around 154 yen to the dollar, exceeding initial forecasts [9] - Supply chain disruptions, particularly in semiconductor availability, have led to production halts in various factories, further complicating the operational landscape for Japanese automakers [10] - The competitive landscape is intensifying, especially in the Chinese market, where Japanese brands have seen their market share drop significantly, from 24.1% in 2020 to 11.6% recently [11]

Core Insights - Toyota Motor Corporation has commenced production at its first battery plant outside Japan, located in Liberty, North Carolina, marking a significant expansion in its U.S. operations [1][5]. Investment Plans - The company plans to invest up to $10 billion over the next five years to enhance U.S. manufacturing and future mobility initiatives, bringing its total U.S. investment to nearly $60 billion since entering the market [2][3]. Economic Impact - The Liberty plant, with an investment of nearly $14 billion, is expected to create up to 5,100 jobs, significantly impacting the Piedmont Triad region known for its manufacturing and transportation ties [4]. Facility Details - The 1,850-acre facility will produce lithium-ion battery packs for various vehicle types, with plans to operate 14 production lines and achieve an annual output of 30 GWh by 2030 [7]. Supported Models - Batteries produced at the North Carolina facility will support models such as the Camry HEV, Corolla Cross HEV, RAV4 HEV, and a new three-row electric SUV planned for U.S. production [8]. Community Engagement - The Toyota USA Foundation has pledged $2.7 million to expand its Driving Possibilities program in two North Carolina school districts, reflecting the company's commitment to workforce development and STEM education [9]. Market Reaction - Following the announcement, Toyota's shares increased by 0.82%, trading at $207.68 [10].

Despite slowing EV sales here in the US, Toyota just out with a big new bet on that market. For that, we'll turn to Phil Labau. Morning, Phil. >> Good morning, Carl.It's a 10 billion dollar bet that Toyota is making when it comes to production here in the United States. A lot of that money will be spent on EV and hybrid production and battery production. And today, the company is beginning production, battery production at a new plant in Liberty, North Carolina.You might be saying to yourself, wait a second ...

Core Insights - Toyota is making a significant investment of $10 billion in the U.S. market, focusing on electric vehicle (EV) and hybrid production, as well as battery production [1][6] - The company is starting battery production at a new facility in Liberty, North Carolina, which will create an additional 2,500 jobs, increasing total employment at the site to 5,100 [2][3] - Toyota currently holds a dominant position in the hybrid market, accounting for 51% of hybrid sales in the U.S., and aims to increase local production to reduce reliance on imports [3] Investment Strategy - Despite a general trend of automakers scaling back EV investments in the U.S., Toyota is proceeding with its plans, indicating confidence in the market [2][5] - The investment will enhance Toyota's production capabilities, particularly for models like the RAV4 hybrid, which will utilize batteries produced at the new facility [3][6] - The company is also looking to benefit from clearer tariff rates established through trade agreements with Japan, which may further incentivize local production [5][7] Competitive Landscape - Toyota's investment comes at a time when competitors like General Motors are reassessing their own spending on battery and EV production in the U.S. [4] - The recent market dynamics show that Toyota and General Motors have been trading in tandem, reflecting a shift in the competitive landscape [4]

Core Viewpoint - Toyota Motor has initiated production at a new $13.9 billion battery plant in North Carolina and plans to invest up to $10 billion more in the U.S. over the next five years, marking a significant moment in the company's history [1][2]. Group 1: Investment and Production - The new battery plant is Toyota's first in-house facility outside of Japan, announced in December 2021 as part of the Biden administration's initiative to increase domestic battery production for electric and hybrid vehicles [2]. - The company has confirmed an increase in investment, although specific details were not disclosed, with the CEO describing it as a pivotal moment for Toyota [2]. - The announcement follows a statement from President Donald Trump regarding a $10 billion investment by Toyota in the U.S., indicating a potential alignment with governmental policies [3]. Group 2: Market Conditions and Sales Performance - Market conditions for electric vehicles (EVs) have deteriorated, while demand for hybrids has surged, benefiting Toyota, which holds over 51% market share in U.S. hybrid sales through Q3 of this year [3]. - Toyota's U.S. sales increased by 9.9% to over 1.3 million vehicles sold through the third quarter of this year, reflecting a positive sales trend amid changing market dynamics [4]. Group 3: Industry Challenges - The automotive industry, including Toyota, is facing challenges in production planning due to regulatory changes affecting EVs and tariffs imposed on new vehicles and parts [4].

Toyota Pledges to Invest Up to $10 Billion in Its US Operations https://t.co/qKOAMblcZ8 ...