FAW Toyota may introduce new self-branded electric car

Gasgoo.com (Shanghai February 14) - Tianjin FAW Toyota is in the process of setting up its own brand, bjnews.com.cn reported. Sources within the joint venture said that the brand was already within the negotiating stage, and that research and development work on a brand new model would begin in the future. It is expected to be released within the year.

Information was leaked earlier on the vehicle, revealing that it would be based on the Toyota Vios subcompact  (pictured) platform and would contain entirely self-made pure electric technology. Tianjin FAW Toyota General Manager Chen Dapeng stating that this would be the first step the company takes towards producing a self-branded vehicle.

Sources also confirmed that FAW Tianjin Toyota had already formally established an R&D facility in the country to better suit the tastes of the domestic market. The facility, which will target brand localization, was reported to be completed last year. However, they refused to offer any clear information regarding the new vehicle.