Toyota West Virginia has begun production of the OEM’s fifth-generation hybrid transaxle — a core part of Toyota’s electrification strategy, according to a news release.

Assembly of the new transaxles is a result of more than $300 million in investments at the plant announced in 2021 and 2022. Toyota West Virginia represents a $2 billion investment and assembles both engines and drivetrain components for Toyota’s North American operations. It is the only Toyota plant in North America to build the fifth-gen hybrid transaxle.

The transaxle is the same as that of the 2024 Prius. The compact high-output/low-loss drive motor for the transaxle/motor uses a six-magnet and electromagnetic steel plate configuration to support drive functions. For improved performance while in Hybrid mode, both engine power and plug-in hybrid EV battery power are used for acceleration.

“Toyota West Virginia is on the leading edge of our company’s electrified future,” said David Rosier, Toyota West Virginia president, in the release. “The new hybrid transaxle is a testament to our teams’ 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 the more than 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., Toyota said.

“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 is part of the all-new Camry and Corolla Cross models. Hybrid EVs are a key component of the company’s portfolio approach to vehicle electrification. Toyota believes that a diverse array of products will provide all customers with a role in reducing 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, in the release. “Toyota has allowed West Virginia to be at the forefront of innovation in cutting-edge technology. We’ve already seen such incredible success, and now, we’re excited to see everyone aiming 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 new investments totaling more than $18.6 billion into its U.S. manufacturing operations to support electrification efforts.

According to a May 2023 news release, Toyota has put more than 23 million hybrids, plug-in hybrids, fuel cell electric, and battery electric vehicles on the road globally — more than all other automakers combined at the time.

The company currently offers 22 electrified vehicle options in the U.S. across the Toyota and Lexus brands, which it says is the most among any automaker.

By 2025, Toyota plans to have an electrified option available for every Toyota and Lexus model worldwide.

Images

Photos of Toyota West Virginia team members provided by Toyota

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