Automotive News Europe — 2025-09-03
Automotive Industry
Toyota said it will build an electric vehicle at its factory in the Czech Republic, its first full-electric model to be made in Europe and would also invest in a new battery assembly facility at the plant.
The automaker did not disclose details of the model or timing for production but said it would invest about €680 million ($796 million) to expand its plant in Kolin about 60 km east of Prague to accommodate production of the new vehicle and its battery, and new paint and welding shops.
The Czech government will invest up to €64 million in the dedicated battery facility, Toyota said.
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The auto industry makes up around 10 percent of Czech gross domestic product, and Toyota’s decision to build a BEV in Kolin was a key step toward “keeping car manufacturing in our country,” Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala said in a statement.
Toyota has been more cautious in its approach to BEVs than its traditional rivals, which has helped it over the last year as global demand for full-electric cars has slowed.
The company has benefited from demand for its expanding hybrid lineup, including in its biggest market, the United States.
Earlier this year, Toyota said it will launch a total of nine battery-electric models in Europe in 2025 and 2026 for its Toyota and premium Lexus brands.
Toyota builds the Yaris hybrid small car and Aygo X combustion engine minicar at its Czech plant. The Aygo X will be 100 percent hybrid from November. The Kolin factory has an annual capacity of about 220,000 vehicles.