If you’re thinking that you will continue to see only vehicle running on non-renewable fuels for the next ten years, think again. Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt Ltd (TKML) has already jumped on to the renewable path and is now expected to launch a hydrogen cell-based electric car soon. The Japanese auto manufacturer is already selling fuel cell-based vehicles in different countries.
At present, TKML is testing ‘Mirai’ on various Indian roads. Mirai is a completely electric vehicle which derives power from hydrogen fuel cells. N Raja, Deputy MD at TKML has spoken about having powertrains for different options, which include electric vehicle, fuel cell vehicle and lug-in hybrid. The model with choice of electric platform will be announced closer to the date of launch, as per him.
Mr. Raja also believes that in the current scenario, TKML will look at hybrid vehicles as the first step towards electrification, but this would be difficult with GST at 43% for the same. He does feel that India needs to step on the gas towards establishment of infrastructure for such vehicles.
Around the world, Aqua is the largest selling hatch hybrid for Toyota. The company strongly looks at electric vehicles in every country, as per regulations, societal circumstances, environmental infrastructure and road conditions. Core electrification technologies are already possessed by the company.
