Toyota Motor Corporation is establishing its first research and development (R&D) center in India through its local unit, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, according to a report by Bloomberg. The facility will commence operations with approximately 200 personnel in Bengaluru, near the existing factory in Bidadi, and is expected to expand to around 1,000 engineers by 2027.
This initiative underscores Toyota’s commitment to making India a global hub for clean and green technologies. The R&D center will focus on developing advanced mobility solutions, including electrified vehicle powertrain technologies. A significant feature of the facility will be a Hardware-in-Loop (HIL) test setup, enabling comprehensive testing and development of vehicle drivetrain configurations and control strategies.
In addition to the R&D center, Toyota has been actively involved in skill development initiatives in India. The company has established multiple Centers of Excellence (CoEs) in collaboration with educational institutions in Bengaluru. For instance, in March 2023, Toyota Kirloskar Motor set up a CoE at RV College of Engineering, providing engineering students with hands-on experience in powertrains and their functioning. Similarly, in February 2023, another CoE was inaugurated at JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), focusing on practical exposure to engines and powertrains.
Furthermore, Toyota has partnered with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) to establish a Mobility Engineering Laboratory. This facility aims to enable teaching in advanced technologies and high-end research and development, equipping the next generation of engineers with the skills needed to develop advanced mobility solutions.
These initiatives collectively highlight Toyota’s strategic focus on enhancing its R&D capabilities and contributing to skill development in India, aligning with the nation’s vision of achieving self-reliance through ‘Make in India’ and ‘Skill India’ programs.