Hybrid Technology and How Toyota Took Center Stage
Hybrid Technology is the future of the car engine as it is fuel-efficient and, most importantly, environmentally friendly. If we talk about the hybrid engine in layman terms, the car runs on two power sources. The most common hybrid powertrain combines a gasoline/petrol engine with an electric motor. Although the technology sounds modern, its origin can be traced back to over 100 years.
The first hybrid engine was built in 1899 by engineer Ferdinand Porsche, who used a gasoline engine to provide power to an electric motor. Initially, the engine was well received, but it lost its charm over time. Then in 1904, it got the attention again when Ford launched its automobile assembly line. However, Ford’s inability to provide these cars at a reasonable price led to its fall.
In the 1960s, hybrid technology came under discussion once again when US Congress introduced legislation to encourage the greater use of electric vehicles to reduce air pollution.
New Beginning for Hybrid Technology
For the next three decades, top car companies invested billions of dollars, and in 1997, Toyota became the first to launch a car with a hybrid engine.
A Responsible Success
Toyota became the first company to mass-produce hybrid engines globally, and it took the world by storm. The company sold over 15 million units of hybrid cars around the globe. With time, Toyota improved its technology with around a 10% improvement in fuel consumption with every new generation.
The company has increased its hybrid models to 44 from Prius. As per the numbers, Toyota holds 20% share in global hybrid car sales. Furthermore, Toyota hybrid cars have saved over 118 million tons of CO2 and produce extremely low NOx, playing its role in improving air quality. There is no doubt that Toyota has been the most trusted partner when it comes to Hybrid Technology.
What Does Future Hold?
Toyota is still heavily invested in hybrid technology, and if we talk about Pakistan, specifically, we have multiple good news. Last year, Toyota Pakistan (Indus Motor Company Ltd. (IMC)) announced investing $100 million in the country to produce hybrid electric cars. The company announced during a meeting with Prime Minister Imran Khan.
Secondly, there are strong reports that IMC will launch the 12th generation of Toyota Corolla Hybrid in Pakistan. This means that the next Corolla will be fuel-efficient, produce less emissions, and be an excellent choice for sedan lovers.
As mentioned earlier, Toyota is leading the hybrid technology in the world, and it seems it will be a pioneer in Pakistan.