Link to Article: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20230919_02/
Japanese car manufacturer Toyota is creating a new method for manufacturing its next-generation electric vehicles (EVs), which are set to hit the market in 2026. This new system will affect the conveyor belts, as they will no longer be necessary for moving large parts around. Instead, these EVs will autonomously navigate their creation by “driving through” the production process. This concept is partially employed at Toyota’s Motomachi plant in the Aichi prefecture, where sensor technology and self-driving capabilities allow vehicles to move within the plant. Additionally, officials say that Toyota plans to incorporate giga-casting technology, which involves machines designed for production, more specifically casting, on a much larger scale, for manufacturing the front and rear sections of the EV bodies. This innovative approach aims to cut plant investment by 50% by streamlining manufacturing processes. Toyota is also targeting the commercial use of all-solid-state batteries as early as 2027, which will bring faster charging and improved range capabilities.
This is a step in the right direction for Toyota, as they are an automotive giant that has dominated the industry for decades now, providing customers with safe, reliable, and effective cars for daily drives, off-roading, or for racing, as seen in NASCAR. Moving towards electric vehicles is a step in the right direction because of the growth of the EV industry and the potential profits that come with it. According to the International Energy Agency, 14 million EVs will be sold by the end of this year, which shows growth from 2022, as EV sales exceeded 10 million. Not only can it be very beneficial for the environment, as there will be a lower demand for gasoline or fossil fuels, but it can also be cheaper, as it will just require you to charge the vehicle. Setting up the charger and paying for it might cost a few hundred to even a few thousand dollars, but in the end, you are helping your bank account and the environment.
As an MNC, Toyota’s job is to make sure that their cars reach all corners of the world, and their new EV technology ensures this by giving more options to customers. MNCs are key components to globalization, and they also offer the potential to influence the political, economic, or social conditions in their home country. The theme of globalization is important with cars, as they are present everywhere, regardless of age, model, or quality. Globalization has caused this, and allows the Japanese or European cars which dominate the industry to be found in distant places like Africa or South America.