Toyota
has decided that it’s time to devote some serious time and money toward developing a new engine for its smaller vehicles and hybrid models
. Though few details have been released about the new engine in the works, the new project will utilize manufacturing facilities in key southern U.S. states, including Alabama, Kentucky, and Missouri. With such a large undertaking gearing up to begin, it does raise the question: what’s so special about this new engine?
Toyota’s new project will help power future vehicles
Life Car Store
explains that Toyota’s new engine is a four-cylinder and production of the new engine will take place primarily in Alabama, with facilities in Kentucky and Missouri also pitching in. A total of $383 million will go toward parts, labor, and materials development, but dropping close to $400 million on a new ICE seems a little surprising, considering that Toyota has only 8 years before emissions laws start to render ICEs obsolete. But perhaps the Japanese automaker has a trick up its sleeve; they are also planning to use the new four-cylinder for hybrid vehicle models, too.
Why does Toyota need another four-cylinder engine?
While investing in hybrid vehicles makes sense both financially and environmentally, Toyota already offers 3 four-cylinder engine options to customers, which include a 1.8-liter, 2.0-liter option and a unique pair of .5-liters. It’s unknown if Toyota plans to scrap some or all of these previous four-cylinder engines; the specs on the new ICE aren’t known, either.
Regardless, Toyota typically ranks top in car value and is arguably the most popular export vehicle brand in the U.S. With the development of manufacturing plants in several U.S. states, Toyota is also building a brand image that ties in more closely with America, as well.
MORE: Consumer Reports Says the 2023 Toyota bZ4X EV Could Rival Tesla and Ford
Will Toyota’s new engine development create more local jobs?
Yes—it’s more than likely that Toyota’s new project will lead to more jobs, and a sizable portion of their $383 million dollar investment will go toward expanding their Hunstville, Alabama plant by over 100,000 square feet. With that much room to grow, Toyota will almost certainly be looking to hire more workers at their AL, KY, and MO facilities.
Currently, their Huntsville, AL location pumps out over 900,000 engines per year.
MORE: What's Toyota's Problem With Electric Vehicles?
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