This development follows over $300 million in investments at the plant announced in 2021 and 2022. Toyota West Virginia, representing a $2 billion investment, assembles both engines and drivetrain components for Toyota’s North American operations. It is the only Toyota plant in North America manufacturing the fifth-gen hybrid transaxle.
The transaxle, used in the 2024 Prius, features a compact high-output/low-loss drive motor with a six-magnet and electromagnetic steel plate configuration for enhanced drive functions. In Hybrid mode, both engine power and plug-in hybrid EV battery power contribute to improved acceleration.
“Toyota West Virginia is on the leading edge of our company’s electrified future,” said David Rosier, Toyota West Virginia president. “The new hybrid transaxle is a testament to our team’s know-how, expertise, and determination to assemble the highest quality products for our customers. This significant achievement would simply not be possible without them.”
This milestone reflects the dedication of over 2,000 team members at the Mountain State facility and showcases Toyota’s commitment to electrification and long-term job stability in the U.S.
“I’m excited to be part of this team, and we all understand how important this project is,” said Shanell Spears, team leader on the hybrid transaxle line. “As the plant continues to grow and change, it’s obvious Toyota is committed to the people who work here and wants to make our community the best that it can be.”
The hybrid transaxle will be part of the all-new Camry and Corolla Cross models. Hybrid EVs are crucial to Toyota’s portfolio approach to vehicle electrification. Toyota believes a diverse array of products will help reduce carbon emissions.
“We are so proud of what Toyota has been able to accomplish, and their commitment to West Virginia means so much,” said Gov. Jim Justice. “Toyota has allowed West Virginia to be at the forefront of innovation in cutting-edge technology. We’ve already seen incredible success, and now we’re excited to aim for even greater heights. I’m so grateful to Toyota for believing in West Virginia because they have played a massive role in our state’s economic success.”
Since 2021, Toyota has announced over $18.6 billion in new investments in its U.S. manufacturing operations to support electrification efforts.
According to a May 2023 news release, Toyota has put over 23 million hybrids, plug-in hybrids, fuel cell electric, and battery electric vehicles on the road globally, more than any other automaker at the time.
The company currently offers 22 electrified vehicle options in the U.S. across the Toyota and Lexus brands, the most among any automaker.
By 2025, Toyota plans to have an electrified option available for every Toyota and Lexus model worldwide.
Source: Toyota