Toyota Motor reported a 2.3% year-on-year decline in global sales to 806,905 units in February, amid competition in China’s electric vehicle segment and softer demand in its home market of Japan. The total figure includes sales from subsidiaries Daihatsu Motor and Hino Motors. In China, combined sales of Toyota and Lexus vehicles fell 13.9%, while production dropped 11.5%. The decline was largely attributed to the timing of the Lunar New Year holiday, which affected both output and demand during the pe ...

Core Viewpoint - The company emphasizes a multi-technology approach to achieve energy security and reduce fossil fuel dependence in India, highlighting the importance of various technologies including battery electric vehicles, hybrids, and alternative fuels like ethanol and hydrogen [1][10]. Group 1: Multi-Technology Approach - The automaker believes that a combination of technologies is essential due to India's geographical diversity and consumer acceptance challenges [1][10]. - Key initiatives from the government, such as the ethanol program and hydrogen mission, are aimed at increasing fossil fuel substitution and enhancing energy security [10]. - Multiple technologies, including compressed biogas (CBG) and hydrogen, are critical for addressing localized pollution issues [4][10]. Group 2: Hybrid Vehicles and Local Conditions - Hybrid vehicles are particularly suited for congested areas like Delhi, where their electric motors can effectively operate in slow-moving traffic [5][10]. - The company asserts that hybrids, alongside EVs, play a significant role in combating air pollution [6][10]. Group 3: Roadmap for Sustainable Mobility - The company is committed to developing a strong portfolio of green technologies, including a full range of EVs, strong hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and fuel cell vehicles [6][10]. - Expansion of charging infrastructure is identified as a key factor for enhancing EV adoption across the country [7][10]. - The goal is to transition away from petrol and diesel rapidly, aligning with global environmental challenges focused on carbon neutrality [7][10]. Group 4: Economic Viability and Manufacturing - The company emphasizes the need for a reduction in manufacturing costs to ensure the viability of the EV segment, moving away from reliance on subsidies [9][10]. - Viability is expected to be achieved through scale, which will be facilitated by introducing more electrified technology products [9][10].