Akio Toyoda, chairman of Toyota and grandson of the company’s founder, has once again challenged the global push for rapid electrification, presenting data that questions the environmental benefits of a full shift to electric vehicles (EVs).
While most automakers race toward an all-electric future, Toyoda remains a vocal skeptic. At a recent industry event, he argued that forcing consumers into EVs too quickly could have severe economic and ecological consequences.
“The automotive industry is not ready for a full EV transition. Millions of jobs in the supply chain are at risk if we abandon internal combustion engines prematurely. And from an environmental standpoint, EVs are still dirtier than hybrids when you consider production and battery manufacturing,” said Toyoda.
Toyoda backed his claims with striking figures:
- Toyota has sold 27 million hybrids since the first Prius launched in 1997.
- According to Toyota’s calculations, these hybrids have had the same carbon impact as just 9 million EVs when factoring in battery production and vehicle manufacturing.
- “One EV is as carbon-intensive as three hybrids,” he asserted.
While critics acknowledge that EV production emits more CO₂ upfront, studies show that over their lifetime, EVs typically offset these emissions with cleaner operation—especially in regions with renewable energy. Toyoda, however, insists that hybrids remain a more balanced solution for now.
“The enemy is carbon, not a particular technology. We should keep all options open,” said Toyoda.
Toyoda’s stance has drawn mixed reactions. Some applaud Toyota for resisting “groupthink” on EVs, while others argue the company is lagging behind competitors like Tesla and BYD.
As governments push for stricter emissions regulations, Toyota’s strategy will face increasing scrutiny. But for now, Toyoda remains steadfast: “The future isn’t just electric—it’s multi-faceted.”
Source: Reuters
