Toyota displays advanced tech, products in BEV, HEV, hydrogen fields at CIIE 2024

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- From November 5 to 10, the 7th China International Import Expo ("CIIE") is taking place at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai). Toyota Motor Corporation ("Toyota"), a participant at each CIIE since its inception, is showcasing its vision for a sustainable future under the theme "Sixty Years of Partnership, Creating a Win-Win Future." Through three initiatives—"Best in Town," "Multi-Pathway", and "Mobility for All" —Toyota is demonstrating its commitment to carbon neutrality and inclusive mobility. 

Photo credit: Toyota

Highlighting its 60-year journey in China, Toyota's exhibit features a rare 1964 Toyota Crown model, symbolizing the brand's initial entry into the Chinese market. Alongside it, the latest Crown model underscores Toyota's enduring reputation for quality and its readiness to adapt to the evolving tastes and needs of Chinese consumers. With over 20 million users in China, Toyota's enduring appeal is showcased through this dual display of heritage and innovation.

Photo credit: Toyota

Given the scale and diversity of the Chinese market, Toyota is leveraging a "Multi-Pathway" approach to electrification. This strategy introduces multiple energy solutions tailored to regional requirements. In the hydrogen technology sector, Toyota is targeting commercial vehicles applications and has brought three fuel cell systems to the CIIE, including the TL Power300—a dual-system unit with a 300 kW output now powering a 49-tonne fuel cell tractor model. Toyota's TL Power150 and 260 kW+ fuel cell systems cater to short-haul and heavy-load trunk line logistics, with features like extended life spans of up to 30,000 operational hours, high efficiency, and reduced hydrogen consumption.

Photo credit: Toyota

To address the logistical challenges in hydrogen infrastructure, Toyota has pioneered a "hydrogen swap" model, aimed at enhancing range and minimizing refueling times. This innovative approach also lowers initial acquisition costs by enabling hydrogen module rentals, maximizing the lifecycle of hydrogen tanks and improving the viability of hydrogen-powered commercial vehicles. Toyota is actively conducting field trials of this business model in China.

Photo credit: Toyota

Toyota's battery electric vehicle (BEV) lineup at the CIIE includes the soon-to-be-released bZ3C and bZ3X models. Both are equipped with advanced driver-assistance technologies and intelligent interiors, providing enhanced safety and comfort.

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Celebrating over 27 years of exploration, Toyota's HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) technology, with over 28 million users globally and 3.3 million in China, has now evolved into the fifth generation. Displayed at the CIIE 2024, the all-new Prado smart HEV version, featuring a 2.4T super hybrid system, represents Toyota's latest strides in fuel efficiency and off-road performance.

Photo credit: Toyota

At the exhibition, Toyota also introduced the "Sweep" energy storage system for the first time in China, aimed at addressing the sustainability challenges of electric vehicle battery recycling. The Sweep system stores renewable energy generated from solar and wind sources, contributing to grid stability while extending the utility of end-of-life EV batteries. The platform supports batteries with varying capacities and degradation levels, optimizing the use of recycled materials and prolonging battery lifespan.

Photo credit: Toyota

In line with its "Mobility for All" philosophy, Toyota offers tailored mobility solutions to suit diverse user needs. This includes mobility aid vehicles like the welfare-enhanced bZ3 electric and Alphard prototype model, specifically designed for greater accessibility. The bZ3 welfare version will soon be available for rental in Hainan province and will support ride-hailing and accessible transportation, making flexible mobility solutions more affordable.

In addition, Toyota's rehabilitation robot, Welwalk, is equipped with intelligent wearable technology for gait assistance, accumulating data from user training to help people with limited mobility, such as those with lower limb paralysis. Toyota aims to bring this product to market in 2026.