The new Toyota Corolla is expected to be available in China as an electric vehicle, hybrid, and gasoline model

Image: Toyota

Toyota Motor plans to produce the next generation of Corolla in China starting in 2028, according to Nikkei. The move aims to gain more flexibility in a slowing market.

The production of this model will be carried out by the FAW Toyota Motor joint venture, which consists of Toyota and China FAW Group. A new vehicle architecture based on the “Multipathway” principle will be used, allowing for the integration of various propulsion technologies.

Specifically, this architecture can accommodate electric drives, hybrid engines, gasoline engines, or other types of powertrains. Toyota is already using this foundation for some vehicles, including models from its luxury brand Lexus. Introducing it in the Corolla is intended to accelerate development and reduce costs.

In addition, the new platform allows for adaptation to changing demands for different types of powertrains. The concept car for the next Corolla (shown in the article image) was presented last fall at the Japan Mobility Show. However, the production model is likely to have a less futuristic appearance.

Koji Sato, then president and now vice chairman, emphasized the importance of diversity when introducing the Corolla concept. “The Earth is vast and the world is diverse. Roads vary, as do energy realities,” he said at the time. In addition to a purely battery-electric version, Sato noted that multiple powertrain options are planned, including hybrid and gasoline versions.

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Thomas Langenbucher is an expert in electromobility with experience in the automotive and financial industries. Since 2011, he has been covering electric vehicles, sustainable technologies, and mobility solutions for ecomento.de. Learn more.

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