Toyota Motor Europe (TME) has confirmed plans to produce its first battery electric vehicle (BEV) in Europe, with manufacturing to take place at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Czech Republic (TMMCZ) in Kolín. The announcement was made at a ceremony at the Office of the Government of the Czech Republic by Prime Minister Petr Fiala, Minister of Industry and Trade Lukáš Vlček, and Toyota Motor Europe President Yoshihiro Nakata.
The project represents a major milestone for both Toyota and the Czech Republic. TMMCZ’s plant will expand from 152,000 to 173,000 square meters to accommodate the new BEV and its battery assembly, including new paint and welding shops. Toyota will invest around €680 million in the expansion, supported by up to €64 million from the Czech Government for a dedicated battery facility. The project is expected to create 245 new jobs in the region.
Prime Minister Petr Fiala hailed the investment as vital for the future of the Czech automotive industry, which accounts for around 10% of national GDP. He stressed that such projects enhance competitiveness, support innovation, and secure the long-term presence of car manufacturing in the country. Industry Minister Lukáš Vlček added that the investment reflects the Czech Republic’s stable business environment and skilled workforce, with state support expected to deliver benefits worth an estimated €250 million.
Yoshihiro Nakata, President & CEO of Toyota Motor Europe, said the decision underscores the company’s commitment to sustainable mobility and innovation in Europe. He highlighted Toyota’s long-standing relationship with the Czech Republic, describing the new BEV project as part of its broader multi-pathway strategy to achieve carbon neutrality in Europe by 2040.
Currently, TMMCZ produces the Aygo X and Yaris Hybrid, with a yearly output of about 220,000 vehicles. The addition of BEV production will diversify the plant’s capacity and benefit the local supply chain, with most components to be sourced domestically.
With a presence spanning over two decades, TMMCZ has produced more than 4.5 million vehicles. Since becoming a wholly owned Toyota facility in 2021, it has grown into one of the Central Bohemia region’s largest employers, with around 3,200 staff. In 2024, the plant also became Toyota’s first European logistics mega hub, serving six Central European markets.
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