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A huge portion of the Japanese economy is based on the auto industry (something like 2.5% of GDP). EVs are much simpler than ICE vehicles. Additionally, Japan d
by 4death4 3y ago
A huge portion of the Japanese economy is based on the auto industry (something like 2.5% of GDP). EVs are much simpler than ICE vehicles. Additionally, Japan doesn't have expertise or the raw materials to be competitive in batteries, which is one of the main components of an EV.
So, from the perspective of Toyota, and from the Japanese economy as a whole, there is little reason to think that there is much value in manufacturing EVs. Sure, Toyota might be able to slap their brand on an EV and get a few out the door, but they're not going to dominate the market like they do today.
- makeitdouble 3y ago> Japan doesn't have expertise or the raw materials to be competitive in batteries Japan is notoriously good at fundamental material science, and Panasonic is a battery giant. Sure there's tough competition, but they never shied away from fighting these kind of battles. Relying on mainly China for the rare earth/metals could be an aspect of it though.
- jacquesm 3y agoNote that this ammonia development is in a 50/50 JV between Toyota and the Chinese.