KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Toyota inks pact with Karnataka Government
- To set up its third plant in India
- Will increase production capacity by up to 1 lakh units annually
Toyota has recently inked a Memorandum of Understanding with the Karnataka government to establish its third manufacturing facility in India. The proposed plant, set to be located in Bidadi near Bangalore alongside the existing two plants, will contribute to an annual production capacity increase of 1 lakh units. The project, anticipated to draw an investment of approximately Rs 3,300 crores, is expected to create around 2,000 new job opportunities.
Let's look at this development a bit more closely and what aspirations the brand has.
Toyota Announces Its Third Plant In India
Toyota's current manufacturing facilities in Bidadi collectively produce around 4 lakh units per year. With the addition of the new plant, scheduled to be operational by 2026, Toyota aims to increase its production capacity by about 30%. Celebrating its 25th year in India, Toyota's forthcoming facility is set to be a key production hub for an upcoming three-row SUV. Codenamed the 340D, this SUV is anticipated to be an extended version of the Corolla Cross available internationally, with an annual production target of 60,000 units and an expected launch around 2026.
Also, Read- India-Bound Hyundai Tucson Facelift Globally Breaks Cover: New Styling
Mr. Masahiko Maeda, Chief Executive Officer of Asia Region at Toyota, emphasized the strategic significance of the Indian market and expressed confidence that the new investments in India will enhance Toyota Kirloskar Motor's (TKM) role in the global vision for a more promising future. With a commitment to addressing the challenge of carbon emissions, Toyota aims to transform mobility through "Diversity, Intelligence & Electrification" globally. The focus on clean technologies will be tailored to each region's mobility goals, considering factors such as energy mix, infrastructure readiness, and unique consumer profiles. Mr. Masakazu Yoshimura, Managing Director and CEO of TKM, highlighted the MOU with the Karnataka state government for a new plant as a significant step toward contributing to employment generation and promoting advanced clean technologies in alignment with India's development goals and the pursuit of Carbon Neutrality.
New 3-Row Toyota SUV To Be Manufactured At This New Plant
The upcoming three-row SUV from Toyota, based on the Corolla Cross for the Indian market, will utilize Toyotas TNGA-C platform, shared with the Innova Crysta. While the global Corolla Cross boasts a 2,640mm wheelbase, the India-spec version is expected to extend by approximately 150mm to accommodate a third row of seats. Although specific styling details remain undisclosed, Toyota may introduce distinctive elements, including a new front fascia with a revised bumper, grille, and headlights, along with a redesigned rear end.
While there are speculations about the new SUV, but any information about its sharing with Maruti is still under tight lips. Notably, Maruti and Toyota sell rebadged products in sharing where the latest additions happen to be Maruti Invicto and the Toyota Rumion.
Verdict
The third Toyota plant in India will put the foot on the throttle for the brand as they are increasing their capacity by upto lakh units per year. While they reveal that it will generate 2000 jobs, the customers are going to benefit as they will be getting hands on their cars a little earlier than before. Also, If you are someone with a passion for engines mounted on wheels, you must join our Whatsapp Group Community of petrolheads to find out more exciting stuff about the Auto world.
Also, Read- Toyota Hilux Commands Waiting Period In November 2023: Check Here
