Protect Japanese Automotive Workers, Toyota Continues To Develop Burning Machines

Akio Toyoda, former CEO and Chairman of Toyota. (Doc. Global Toyota)

JAKARTA - The era of electric cars is increasingly dominating the automotive industry, but Toyota has stated that it will continue to develop internal combustion engines (ICE). This was conveyed directly by Akio Toyoda, former CEO and Chairman of Toyota, at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2024 event.

In his presentation, reported by the company's release, January 12, Morizo revealed that his proposal to continue the development of combustion engines had been approved by President Toyota Koji Sato and other management ranks. However, these machines will later be equipped with environmentally friendly technology to contribute to the achievement of carbon neutrality.

In his presentation, Akio Toyoda also mentioned his resignation as president and chairman of the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association last year and he also believes that battery-powered electric vehicles are not the only way to achieve carbon neutrality, especially Toyota has taken seriously with hydrogen engines three years ago.

On the one hand, there are 5.5 million Japanese workers who make machine parts. These people support Japan and they have the skills to make Japan have a strong future. We must not lose these people," he stressed.

He also asked all workers who have been making machines to continue to build machines.

I will never let all the work you have done so far be in vain. There is still the role of machines as a practical means to achieve carbon neutrality! So, let's perfect machine technology! Let's start such a project," he said.

Reported by Carbuzz, January 14, at the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2023, the Toyota GR Yaris H2 Concept was successfully driven by British actor Rowan Atkinson. This hydrogen-powered car proves that the technology is suitable for use in racing events. Toyota also exhibited the legendary AE86 car with hydrogen engines.

Currently, Toyota only has bZ4X as a pure electric car (Buttery Electric Vehicle/BEV) in its line of products. However, the sales are not very satisfactory.

Although slow in switching to electrification, Toyota has quite promising EV technology. Their solid battery is predicted to be able to reach a distance of 745 miles per filling in 2027, with a charging time of only 10 minutes. Toyota has also showcased a number of EV concepts, including the FT-Se electric sports car.

"The future is something we have to build on together! I want to build a future together with all car lovers! Let's all build a shared future!" Morizo concluded.