India: Toyota's New Asia-Pacific R&D Powerhouse.

Toyota Motor Corporation is establishing its first research and development (R&D) center in India as part of its global strategy. This move aligns with Toyota’s recent restructuring, which designates India as a key hub for its Middle East, East Asia, and Oceania operations.

The new facility, located in Bengaluru near Toyota Kirloskar Motor’s Bidadi plant, will begin operations with 200 engineers and expand to approximately 1,000 by 2027. Toyota is investing in clean and green technologies while maintaining a focus on gasoline and hybrid models.

This will be Toyota’s third R&D hub in the Asia-Pacific region outside Japan, following China and Thailand. While initially focused on the Indian market, the center has the potential to evolve into a global R&D base. Toyota is also strengthening its partnership with Suzuki, integrating R&D and product development efforts. A key example is the upcoming Toyota Urban Cruiser EV, a rebadged Suzuki eVitara, which will be produced at Suzuki Motor Gujarat starting in 2025.

Toyota, which holds a 5.4% stake in Suzuki, is closely observing Suzuki’s R&D center in Rohtak, which employs around 3,000 engineers.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.