Toyota - The Giant’s Intentions To Bring EVs Into Southeast Asia Market

Having been a major player in the automotive field, how has Toyota joined the wave of electric vehicles and how can it keep the leading position while compromising with the world’s urgent demand for sustainability?

Prof. Shige MAKINO | Kyoto University Graduate School of Economics, Japan
Kim Thanh LE | Nikkei BizRuptors

Published On 23 Oct 2023

Last Updated On 23 Oct 2023

At a glance

Country

Japan

Industry

Automotive

Founded

1937

Establishment of the EV Development Division

1992

Abstract

Toyota's strategic approach to introducing electric vehicles (EVs) into the Southeast Asian market highlights a unique interplay of opportunities and challenges. While global competitors like Tesla and BYD have made significant strides in the region, Toyota has remained cautious, focusing instead on its established dominance in hybrid and luxury vehicles. 

Key findings include Toyota's efforts to adapt to the EV wave by leveraging its existing assets, such as production facilities and customer base, while strategically introducing tailored EV models in emerging markets like Thailand. Additionally, the case underscores the broader dynamics of the global EV industry, with Southeast Asia emerging as a promising yet complex market characterized by diverse consumer needs and economic conditions.

This case challenges learners to critically assess Toyota’s strategic decisions in navigating the EV transition and to propose innovative solutions to enhance its competitiveness in the rapidly evolving Southeast Asian automotive landscape.
 

Disclaimers:

(1) Regarding Case Study Content: This case study is based mainly on secondary data and analysis of publicly available information unless otherwise stated, and is intended solely for educational purposes. Any opinions expressed by the author(s) are designed to facilitate learning discussion and do not serve to illustrate the effectiveness of the company. Additionally, banner images and logos used in the case study are intended for visualization in an educational setting and it is not used to represent or brand the company. For any dispute regarding the content and usage of images and logos, please contact the team.

(2) Regarding University Affiliation and Titles of Authors: The university affiliation and titles of author(s) seen in the case study is based on their affiliation and title during the time of publication. It may or may not represent the current status of said author(s).

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