Canada will build Toyota’s first electric vehicles built in North America. Toyota and Tesla Motors Inc. announced that their jointly-developed RAV4 electric vehicle will be built at Toyota’s Woodstock, Ont. Manufacturing plant starting in 2012.
“Our team members are fully committed to building the finest, highest quality electric vehicle on the road,” said Brian Krinock, President of Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada (TMMC).
Toyota says building the vehicle at the Woodstock plant on the same line as the gasoline-powered RAV4 will streamline and simplify the production process and help guarantee high levels of quality control.
“We’re turning a new chapter in our history and into the future,” said TMMC Chairman Ray Tanguay. “TMMC will lead
the way by building the new RAV4 EV. Being involved with leading edge technology is a great opportunity to motivate and develop our people.”
Toyota will pay the Palo Alto, Calif.-based Tesla $100 million to supply the electric powertrain which includes the battery, motor, gear box and power electrics for the RAV4 EV.
Canada’s Minister of Industry expressed his support for the development. “Our government’s long-term goal remains to provide the right conditions for a sustainable and viable North American auto sector. The Government of Canada is pleased to support the development and implementation of this innovative, fuel-efficient technology in Canada,” said Christian Paradis.
Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty called the news “a tremendous vote of confidence for Ontario’s skilled workers.”
The RAV4 EV will be sold in the U.S. through Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. (TMS). Details including pricing, volume and regional distribution will be determined and announced at a later time. The company says it hasn’t yet decided on sales in Canada.
In July of last year, Tesla and Toyota Engineering and Manufacturing North America (TEMA) collaborated to convert 32 conventional gas-engine RAV4 compact SUVs into fully functional RAV4 EV prototypes.
