Company weighing the option of introducing hybrid technology for its Corolla sedan; waiting for new electric vehicle policy to come into existence
After introducing locally manufactured Camry hybrid for the Indian market last year, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) is now looking at extending this technology for its other offerings in the country.
To start with, the company is mulling at introducing the hybrid technology for its sedan – Corolla. However, the company is waiting for the new electric vehicle policy, which talks about providing subsidies on manufacturing of hybrid vehicles.
"Hybrid technology is an expensive technology. Hence it is necessary to get the economies of scale and the right volumes. We are waiting for the National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) to come into existence," Shekar Viswanathan, vice-chairman, TKM told dna.
Currently there isn't much clarity on the implementation of NEMMP, which was announced by the previous government in January 2013. The policy is expected with the aim of giving thrust to the sales of electric and hybrid vehicles by providing subsidies on sales and creating an infrastructure.
As per the announcement made last year, the government, as and when the policy is implemented, will need to facilitate automotive research & development and put in place charging infrastructure. It is estimated that the government will need to provide support to the tune of Rs 13,000 – Rs 14,000 crore over the next 5-6 years.
Most carmakers are looking at introducing electric and hybrid vehicles as part of their future portfolio, but a delay in implementing the policy has led to an uncertainty over the future of electric and hybrid vehicles in the country.
There are 3 types of hybrids – micro hybrid, mild hybrid and strong hybrid. According to Viswanathan, the policy would provide subsidies on vehicles depending on the level of hybrid.
TKM has so far sold 541 units of Camry Hybrid, since launch last year. Currently 75% of Camry sales are hybrid. The vehicle is manufactured at a separate assembly line within TKM's second plant located in Bidadi, near Bangalore, in Karnataka. Globally India is the 9th country to manufacture Toyota hybrid vehicles.
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