Toyota Stands by Gasoline Cars: Charging Infrastructure Lags, Global Demand Remains

Amid numerous automakers delaying their electrification targets, Toyota emphasized that internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles remain indispensable for now. In a recent statement, the company noted that due to inadequate charging infrastructure, long refueling times, and high vehicle purchase costs, many consumers in various regions still rely on gasoline-powered cars. Although global EV sales continue to rise, market penetration in the U.S. has slightly declined. While Europe and China are progressing more rapidly, their EV adoption includes a significant share of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Toyota is developing a new generation of highly efficient four-cylinder engines and plans to offer gasoline, hybrid, and even plug-in hybrid variants in the next-generation Corolla. Additionally, the company is collaborating with Mazda and Subaru to explore carbon-neutral fuels as a way to extend the lifespan of internal combustion engines.