Production of Hybrid Vehicle Transaxles to Begin in 2015
Tokyo, July 31, 2014 - (JCN Newswire) - Toyota Motor Corporation's (TMC's) vehicle powertrain production subsidiary in Changshu, China, Toyota Motor (Changshu) Auto Parts Co., Ltd. (TMCAP), held a ceremony here today to officially mark the start of localized production of continuously variable transmissions (CVTs), which is a first for Toyota outside Japan. Production of transaxles for hybrid vehicles-also a first for Toyota outside Japan-is scheduled to begin here in 2015.
The ceremony was attended by Chinese government officials, representatives from the Japanese Consulate in Shanghai and TMC's Chinese joint-venture partners, and TMCAP Chairman Seiichi Sudo1.
At the ceremony Sudo said: "TMCAP is collaborating with TMEC2, our hybrid-focused R&D facility nearby, to develop and produce the environment-friendly vehicles that Chinese consumers want and the future needs."
Established in July 2012, TMCAP began production of CVTs for compact cars on July 14. TMCAP-produced CVTs are already being used in new "Corolla" and "Levin" models launched in China this summer, and are also planned for use in other compact vehicles in the future.
TMCAP is working to address anticipated demand for hybrid vehicles in China, with preparations underway to also locally produce hybrid system batteries and inverters. China-made hybrid components will be used in China-market Corollas and Levins starting in 2015.
About Toyota
Supported by people around the world, Toyota Motor Corporation (TSE: 7203; NYSE: TM), has endeavored since its establishment in 1937 to serve society by creating better products. As of the end of December 2012, Toyota conducts its business worldwide with 52 overseas manufacturing companies in 27 countries and regions. Toyota's vehicles are sold in more than 160 countries and regions. For more information, please visit www.toyota-global.com.
Source: Toyota
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