Toyota is developing a new hybrid engine that could consume only... 3.3 liters per 100 kilometers

Toyota remains committed to the potential of hybrid technology. The Japanese automaker has just unveiled the basics of a new powertrain featuring a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a completely redesigned electric system. The goal is to reduce fuel consumption by more than 15%.

Toyota played a major role in popularizing hybrids with the Prius. Nearly thirty years after its launch, the Japanese company continues to refine this technology. Its next generation of powertrains could reach new heights in terms of efficiency.

A new 1.5-liter hybrid engine from Toyota

Toyota has just unveiled the specifications of a completely new 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine. Unlike some engines designed later for hybrid use, this engine was developed from the start to work with an electric system. It will be available in two variants: naturally aspirated and turbocharged. The naturally aspirated version is intended to replace the current 1.8-liter four-cylinder and 1.5-liter three-cylinder engines used in several of the brand’s hybrid models.

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Toyota is also relying on power electronics that use silicon carbide. This material helps reduce energy losses during the conversion of electrical current. It is a technology already used in some electric vehicles, but it could also help improve the efficiency of hybrids. Every improvement counts when it comes to reducing fuel consumption by just a few tenths of a liter per 100 kilometers.

Fuel consumption of 3.3 l/100 km?

Toyota aims to make a difference primarily in terms of fuel consumption. The manufacturer targets an improvement of over 15% in the overall energy efficiency of its future hybrid engines. The Yaris currently has a reported fuel consumption of 3.8 l/100 km, so it could potentially drop below 3.3 l/100 km!

Another feature is that the new engine will be lower than its predecessors. This allows Toyota to design cars with lower hoods, improving aerodynamics and serving as an additional means to reduce fuel consumption.

An engine for the next Corolla?

There is no information yet on which vehicles will benefit from this technology. Toyota has not released a specific timeline, but the next generation of the Corolla hybrid, expected around 2028, appears to be a strong candidate.

Toyota does not necessarily intend to keep this technology to itself. The manufacturer states it plans to develop the sale of its hybrid engines and systems to other companies in the coming years. This strategy could allow other brands to benefit from its expertise, while increasing production volumes and reducing costs. However, no new partners have been announced at this stage.

Once again, Toyota reminds us that it does not plan to abandon hybrids any time soon.