Toyota is working on a new hybrid powertrain based on a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine which will be part of the next generation of Toyota’s hybrid powertrains. Toyota is planning to use the engine and the associated hybrid technology in many different models, both in Europe and other regions, as a way of getting more global coverage for the technology rather than restricting it to specific car models. Toyota will be able to use both a turbocharged and naturally aspirated version of the engine to fit different power and efficiency needs, as well as performance and economy needs, depending on the segment the car model belongs to.
The new engine was unveiled at a recent technical briefing in Europe, where Toyota presented the engine alongside a cross-sectional drawing. The two demonstrated the inner workings of the engine as well as how it fits into Toyota’s hybrid powertrain philosophy. The philosophy represents Toyota’s commitment to improving hybrid technology, even as the industry moves towards more electric vehicles. At the same time, engineers pointed out the ability to use the same engine architecture in different markets with different requirements, including emission standards, economy targets, and other factors, with the potential to produce both petrol and hybrid variants. Using twin variants of the same engine also avoids having to develop completely separate petrol and hybrid powertrain families, helping to reduce complexity and costs.
The new Corolla compact car is set to become one of the first models to use the new hybrid engine, and is due to release in Europe in a few years’ time. It is set to become a large seller for Toyota in the region, meaning that using it as a test vehicle makes sense for the company. It will allow Toyota to perfect the engine and powertrain technologies on a heavily-used platform, ensuring that they are properly road-tested and ready for further releases. If the engine proves itself on the Corolla, it will be much easier to introduce down the line for other car models.
As Toyota looks to the future and the rise of fully electric vehicles, it is vital for the company to be prepared to continue offering hybrid options to those who want them. The new 1.5-litre engine will be a part of that future, fitting into Toyota’s plan for the next phase of its hybrid powertrains while still being efficient and economical enough for everyday commuters. The combination of a flexible engine architecture and careful planning in regards to the hybrid powertrain and platform mean that Toyota will be ready to introduce this new technology and take its hybrid cars into the future.