Toyota Motor Europe President and CEO Yoshihiro Nakata has urged regulators to expand the European Union’s planned “Made in Europe” vehicle production strategy to include non-EU trusted partners such as the U.K., Turkey, and Japan, according to an Oct. 16 company release.
The automaker argues that an EU-only assembly regulation fails to account for the engineering, research, and development work involved in building cars and risks deterring long-standing investors. Nakata is calling for phased-in European content targets of 70% within three years, delayed automotive requirements before 2030 to align with development cycles, and a single set of rules for public procurement, incentives, and corporate fleets.
Toyota also seeks to exclude fuel-cell vehicles from requirements until consumer demand and infrastructure mature. The company requests the U.K. government align with Europe’s 2035 zero-emission vehicle targets, establish realistic 2030 levels, and recognize renewable fuels as a decarbonization path. A ZEV mandate revision is sought by 2027.
The European Union’s proposed Made in Europe conditions, part of its Industrial Accelerator Act and Automotive Package, currently apply only to EU member states. The U.K. Government is reviewing its own Zero Emission Vehicle mandate amid these discussions.
Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa echoed similar sentiments at the Paris Motor Show, questioning the definition of “Made in Europe” for companies that sell 85% of their cars in Europe. Toyota has operated in Europe for over 60 years, designing, developing, and manufacturing vehicles on the continent.
Toyota calls on policymakers to act pragmatically and with partnership in focus, to secure the future across Europe’s automotive industry.