Toyota, the renowned Japanese automotive company, is reportedly poised to use BYD’s plug-in hybrid DM-i platform, the world’s largest NEV (New Energy Vehicle) manufacturer. This strategic move aims to diversify Toyota’s PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) lineup to better compete in China’s NEV market. NEVs encompass vehicles like BEVs, PHEVs, and EREVs, but exclude traditional HEVs, which rely solely on gasoline and cannot be charged separately.
Toyota will transition away from its THS (Toyota Hybrid System) platform, typically in HEV models, for its upcoming vehicles in the Chinese market. While Toyota and BYD have yet to confirm these plans officially, sources within Toyota, as reported by Chinese automotive news portal Caijing, indicate a shift towards implementing DM-i technology. If realized, Toyota aims to refine and customize the platform to distinguish the driving experience of their models from those of BYD’s utilizing the same platform.
BYD is gearing up to introduce its 5th generation DM (Dual Model) platform. This upgrade is expected to have impressive capabilities, with models capable of traveling up to 2,000 kilometers on a single charge and consuming just 2.9 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (equivalent to up to 35 kilometers per liter). The DM platform comprises two main versions: DM-i, emphasizing smart and efficient performance with low consumption and DM-p, catering to vehicles with all-wheel drive (AWD) or intended for off-road use.
In recent years, Toyota has increasingly leaned on BYD technology, culminating in establishing a joint venture called BYD Toyota Electric Vehicle Technology in 2021, with equal ownership by both companies.
Toyota’s second all-electric vehicle, the bZ3 sedan, co-engineered with BYD, showcased the collaboration, featuring BYD-provided LFP Blade battery packs, electric motor, and various in-car technologies.