Toyota Battery Co., Ltd. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation, dedicated to the research, development, and manufacture of advanced batteries for electrified vehicles. Established in December 1996, the company has evolved from a joint venture into a key player in Toyota’s strategy for achieving carbon neutrality. Toyota Battery provides critical battery technology for hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), battery electric vehicles (BEVs), and fuel cell vehicles (FCVs), supporting Toyota’s diverse pathway approach to electrification.
The company’s commitment extends across the entire battery value chain, from material science and cell design to module and pack integration. With a focus on performance, quality, and environmental sustainability, Toyota Battery plays a central role in powering millions of electrified vehicles globally. This integration ensures a stable and reliable supply of high-performance batteries, essential for meeting the growing demand for clean mobility solutions worldwide.
Battery Technology
Toyota Battery Co., Ltd. specializes in a range of battery technologies. For hybrid applications, the company manufactures Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries, which have been a foundational technology since the launch of the Toyota Prius in 1997. These include the compact Battery Module NP2 (2003) and the enhanced NP2.5 (2005), known for their high output and durability.
In the lithium-ion space, Toyota Battery produces advanced chemistries for various electrified vehicles. The 3rd Generation Lithium-ion Battery (2015, updated 2019) features high input/output capabilities for global vehicle applications. A significant advancement is the 4th Generation Lithium-ion Battery, launched in 2023, which is smaller, more compact, and incorporates improved electrode materials. This new generation aims to deliver enhanced energy density and faster charging capabilities. The company also integrates cells into modules and packs complete with cooling systems for optimal vehicle performance.
Beyond existing technologies, Toyota Battery is actively developing next-generation battery solutions, including solid-state batteries. These are targeting commercialization between 2027-2028, promising significantly higher energy density, improved safety, and rapid charging times (around 10 minutes to 80%). Collaborations with partners like Idemitsu Kosan support the development of these advanced materials.
Recent Projects
In 2024, Toyota Battery Co., Ltd. became a 100% owned subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation, a strategic shift that consolidates battery development and production directly under Toyota’s corporate structure. This move underscores Toyota’s commitment to securing its battery supply chain and accelerating technological advancements.
The company is expanding its global manufacturing footprint, with the Toyota Battery Manufacturing North Carolina (TBMNC) facility in the U.S. expected to be operational by 2025. This plant is projected to produce batteries for approximately 300,000 electric vehicles annually, supporting North American market demands and creating thousands of jobs. Additionally, Toyota Battery is establishing a new facility in Jinshan District, Shanghai, set to produce batteries for Lexus BEVs from 2027 onwards. These expansions demonstrate the company’s commitment to localized production and meeting increasing global electrification needs.
Investors
Toyota Battery Co., Ltd. is 100% owned by Toyota Motor Corporation. It transitioned to full ownership by Toyota in early 2024, having originally been established as a joint venture with Panasonic Holdings. Previously, Panasonic held a majority stake which gradually shifted to Toyota before Toyota acquired the remaining shares.
Business Details
Location: Kosai, Shizuoka, Japan
Website: https://www.toyota-battery.com/en/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/105025960
