Toyota is preparing to enter the Chinese market with its first extended-range electric vehicle (EREV). The company plans to begin production of this model in China in April 2027. The vehicle will feature an electric motor to drive the wheels, while a gasoline engine will serve exclusively as a generator to charge the battery.
The manufacturer aims to scale production significantly after the initial launch. While output may start at a few hundred units per month, the company intends to increase production to approximately 200 000 vehicles during 2027. By 2028, the target is to reach an annual production volume of around 400 000 extended-range electric vehicles.
This strategic move targets Chinese consumers who prefer the convenience of a gasoline backup for longer trips over pure battery-electric vehicles. Toyota is not alone in this segment; reports suggest that BMW is also considering launching its own extended-range electric models in China, potentially utilizing the iX5 or the second-generation X7 platforms.
