An All-Electric Future Is, According To Akio Toyoda, His Greatest Fear

The general consensus in the industry is that electric vehicles are the way of the future, despite the fact that several automakers have postponed or abandoned the development of some EVs, frequently at the expense of billions of dollars. It’s now only a question of when, not if. But for as long as feasible, Toyota will cling tenaciously to internal combustion engines.

Toyota is developing a wide range of powertrains, including FCEVs and even combustion engines powered by hydrogen gas, in contrast to the majority of its competitors. Akio Toyoda, the company’s chairman and perhaps one of the last genuine auto aficionados in charge of a large automaker, is largely responsible for the company’s dedication to internal combustion engines.

The Boardroom’s Loneliest Man

In a recent interview with CarWow, Toyoda was questioned about his greatest concern regarding the future of automobiles. His succinct and scathing reply demonstrated how much he despises EVs: “The biggest fear I have is that everyone is switching to BEVs,” he stated. “I was the only one to tell the media three or four years ago that I enjoy sound, smell, and engines and that I want to keep the jobs for engine suppliers. However, I feel like I’m the only one. I feel so isolated.

Additionally, Toyoda implied that discussions about the rate of EV adoption are still taking place within Toyota, claiming that internal vehicle fans are still pushing for alternatives to an all-BEV future.

Encouraging Automobile Owners

At Toyota, the transition to more efficient performance vehicles is already underway. The next-generation GR Yaris is expected to transform into a potent hybrid, possibly producing up to 394 horsepower, by merging the new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine under development with a compact battery pack and electric motor.

There are still a lot of options available to people who hate electrons as much as Toyoda. The most notable is Toyota’s new GR GT, which has a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine without any electrification. However, more affordable sports cars, such as the next MR2 and a reborn Celica, are also planned.

• Also See: ‘GR Corolla On Steroids’: Toyota Introduces All-new Track-bred 2027 GRMN Corolla