Toyota's 2020 hybrid plans

Some time ago it had been reported that Toyota was going to offer a hybrid version of everything they sell, likely by 2020. Now more details are starting to trickle out.

Here's a snapshot of what we might expect:

• Many of the vehicles will be 'mild' hybrids, not 'full hybrids.' The first likely recipient of such technology is the iQ, which could be to market by 2010.

• Toyota will also continue to use nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries, rather than lithium ion batteries, alternative in order to save cost.

• Pure electric vehicles (EVs) are of less interest to Toyota, as they believe that technology only makes sense for some limited higher-end segments.

• Toyota is also looking at fuel cells, though at this point its technologies are not nearly robust enough for consumer use. Also, infrastructure issues in sourcing and distributing the hydrogen to power the fuel cells remains a major issue.

• Plug-in hybrids, like similar to the GM Volt, is being looked at as well.

Full story here.

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• Posted by: Bob Holland October 13, 2008, 4:00 AM
• Categories: Hybrids, Toyota