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The Financial Times: Toyota is working to keep pace with Tesla in the shift to electric vehicles (EVs), focusing on the manufacturing process. They placed an $8 billion investment in the US EV market and are working on solid-state battery technology. Meanwhile, Tesla is revolutionizing car manufacturing with “gigacasting,” a method that creates large vehicle parts from molten metal, simplifying the assembly line. This process challenges the established Toyota Production System, which is based on just-in-time efficiency.
While Tesla uses this technique for its Model Y, and other manufacturers like Volvo and General Motors are adopting similar methods, Toyota is exploring its own approach. They acknowledge being behind in gigacasting but believe they can develop a superior product through their extensive casting experience.
Gigacasting presents potential cost savings, allowing for lighter vehicles that can travel further on a single battery charge. However, it also raises concerns, such as increased repair costs if large, single-piece castings are damaged.
Toyota, the global leader in car sales, is exploring a hybrid approach to carmaking, blending traditional methods with new EV technologies. They aim to sell 3.5 million EVs by 2030 but are also committed to offering a broad range of vehicles globally, recognizing that EVs may not be affordable everywhere in the near future. The company is considering adapting gigacasting to reduce costs and enhance productivity, possibly using modular platforms for their EVs.
Toyota’s strategy reflects a broader perspective that includes advancing battery technology and adapting assembly lines to meet the demands of EV manufacturing.
The entire article can be read at the link https://www.ft.com/content/08048b42-ce72-4b64-9e0e-d15fbc98a9da
