Toyota to Establish First R&D Center in India, Strengthening Market Focus

Toyota Motor Corp. is strategically positioning itself in India by setting up its inaugural research and development (R&D) center via its local subsidiary, highlighting the nation's increasing significance in the worldwide automotive sector. The new Toyota research and development center will be established in Bengaluru, close to the Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt. factory in Bidadi, starting with a team of approximately 200 individuals. According to knowledgeable sources, the team is projected to grow to around 1,000 engineers by 2027.

Indian operations have been designated by Toyota to serve as a regional center for its markets across the Middle East and East Asia in addition to Oceania. The company has supported eco-friendly technology investments in the country which enhances India’s leadership position in the global movement toward sustainable transportation.

Toyota has selected to focus its Indian business on gasoline-hybrid models and partner with Suzuki Motor Corp to expand its presence in India's position as the world's third largest automobile market. The company has not yet introduced environmentally friendly plug-in electric vehicles (EVs) in India. The company operates with a 5.4% stake in Suzuki Motor and conducts thorough assessment of Suzuki's technological development work in the essential automotive engineering campus of Rohtak.

The upcoming Evolution of the Suzuki e-Vitara named Urban Cruiser EV will receive manufacturing at Suzuki Motor Gujarat during 2025. The Japanese automakers are expanding both their EV market penetration in India through enhanced collaboration and accelerating their Indian business development because of escalating competition from homegrown and BYD manufacturers in China.