UMW Toyota Takes A Step Towards Carbon Neutrality, To Focus On HEV Productions?

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) finally unveiled its direction, which is followed by intriguing plans for the future of the Malaysian automotive sector, as it advocates carbon neutrality to pave the road for mass manufacturing of Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV).

Driven by Toyota Motor Corporation’s (TMC), this marks their global commitment to a ‘Clean, Safe and Secure Society’, with expectations to be carbon neutral by 2050 in a practical and sustainable manner. It's also part of the company's aim to develop a comprehensive range of low-emission vehicles as part of its electrification efforts.

Apart from Electrified Vehicles, a few other initiatives are reported to be in the works to reduce carbon emissions and reduce impact of CO2 emissions throughout the lifecycle of a vehicle - from manufacturing up till the disposal process. 

“Toyota’s global direction is to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. This is also in line with the Malaysian Government’s aspirations to position the country as a progressive nation that promotes more green technology and environmental sustainability. This is indeed an exciting time for the Malaysian automotive industry and UMW Toyota Motor is fully charged and ready to champion this Malaysian dream. In order to achieve this, the most realistic, practical and immediate solution is Toyota Hybrid Electric technology and vehicles,” said UMW Toyota Motor deputy chairman Akio Takeyama.

“The mass production and growing acceptance of Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV) will lead to the entire automotive eco-system evolving to embrace a more conscious and concerted effort in reducing Malaysia’s carbon footprint.”

“Toyota’s direction is in line with the international life cycle assessment approach for carbon neutrality which will entirely transform the industry, from the time a vehicle is manufactured and through the vehicle’s ownership, eventually even towards the end of the vehicle lifecycle,” he added.

Being one of the earliest pioneers of Hybrid Electric technology, this effort is seen as a push towards a cleaner, more efficient and sustainable - which could possibly lead to Toyota’s sale of 8 million EVs annually by 2030. In addition, they recently announced an EV strategy which would result in 15 new BEVs by 2025, as part of its aims to have a portfolio of 70 EV models by the same year. 

To achieve their vision, UMW Toyota Motor will invest an additional RM270 million, after an initial RM2 billion, in its present production operations and facility in Malaysia. This sum comprises the launch of a new generation of technologically sophisticated Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV), among other things.

The newest plant in Bukit Raja is part of the prior investment which included 2MW solar panels alongside the ability to collect and recycle 156 cubic meters of rainwater, and the distinction of having the lowest Volatile Organic Compounds emissions in Asia courtesy of the Regenerative Thermal Oxidiser.

“Toyota Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV) are at their most advanced today, and presents itself as the most realistic, immediate, economical and practical solution for mass market production and sale in terms of reduced CO2 emission, convenient usage, and price acceptance by customers,” Takeyama said.

What does local manufacturing of Toyota HEVs mean for Malaysian customers? An obvious outcome would be the market advancing into a new era of motoring, allowing greater access to the latest and most innovative technologies at a reasonable price point.

“Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV) are a pivotal bridge to achieving full vehicle electrification. At present, the Battery Electric technology still requires time for full technology development making the Hybrid Electric technology most appropriate for immediate implementation. While time is still needed for full electrification, the HEV technology is ready today, and the current infrastructure permits for it to be rolled out on a greater scale,” the deputy added.

UMW Toyota Motor recognises the Government's crucial role and support in the growth of the automotive sector to position Malaysia as a frontrunner in automotive innovations and preserve the local automotive industry's long-term viability.

“The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a challenging year for us. However, measures put in place by the Government had successfully restored and strengthened consumer confidence and purchasing power within the automotive industry. This illustrates the vital role that the Government plays in the development of the automotive industry here in Malaysia.” said UMW Toyota Motor president Ravindran K.

“The introduction of Hybrid Electric technology will quickly transform the automotive landscape in Malaysia for Malaysians. We hope that our endeavours to popularise tomorrow’s technology today through the mass introduction of Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV) will receive due support from the Government in the pursuit of a full-scale realisation of vehicle electrification. We hope that the Government will also consider UMW Toyota Motor’s efforts to be included in the National Low Carbon Mobility Blueprint alongside Battery Electric Vehicle, which is in line with the Government’s plans,” he added.