Toyota Announces Decision to Build RAV4 Electric Vehicle at Toyota’s Woodstock, Ontario Production Facility
First North American-produced Toyota Electric Vehicle to utilize existing RAV4 plant.
Tesla to Ship Powertrains from California
Toyota and Tesla Motors, Inc. (Tesla) confirmed today that their jointly-developed RAV4 electric vehicle will be built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada, Inc. (TMMC) in Woodstock, Ontario beginning in 2012.
TMMC President, Brian Krinock, said “TMMC is going to be the first in North America to build a Toyota electric vehicle. Our team members are fully committed to building the finest, highest quality electric vehicle on the road.”
Building the vehicle at the Woodstock plant on the same line as the gasoline-powered RAV4, will streamline and simplify the production process and guarantee the highest level of quality control.
TMMC Chairman, Ray Tanguay stated, “We’re turning a new chapter in our history and into the future. TMMC will lead the way by building the new RAV4 EV. Being involved with leading edge technology is a great opportunity to motivate and develop our people.” He added, “This is an excellent example of Toyota’s determination to collaborate with companies with innovative technology.”
As previously announced, Toyota will pay Tesla approximately $100 million to supply the electric powertrain, which includes the battery, motor, gear box and power electronics for the RAV4 EV. Tesla will build the electric powertrains at its production facility in Palo Alto, California and then ship them to TMMC for final assembly into the vehicle.
Canada’s Minister of Industry, the Honourable Christian Paradis, said: “Our government’s long-term goal remains to provide the right conditions for a sustainable and viable North American auto sector. The Government of Canada is pleased to support the development and implementation of this innovative, fuel-efficient technology in Canada.”
Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty added, “We worked hard to become North America’s number one producer of cars. To stay on top, we need to produce the next generation of cars that use clean technology. Today’s announcement is a tremendous vote of confidence for Ontario’s skilled workers.”
The RAV4 EV will be sold in the U.S. through Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. (TMS). Details including pricing, volume and regional distribution will be determined and announced at a later time. A decision about sales in Canada has not yet been made.
In July of last year, Tesla and Toyota Engineering and Manufacturing North America (TEMA) collaborated to convert 32 conventional gas-engine RAV4 compact SUVs into fully functional RAV4 EV prototypes.
Toyota is committed to a broad strategy of sustainable mobility, incorporating products, partnerships, the urban environment, and energy. The RAV4 EV is one of several advanced-technology new products coming for Toyota. In addition to expanding the Prius family with the upcoming Prius v and Prius Plug-in Hybrid, Toyota will introduce an electric version of the Scion iQ in 2012 and a Hydrogen Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicle by 2015.