In the first half of 2022, regional sales rose by 2.5% to 703,309 units, although the CV performance of the seven different markets in the region (excludes China) was either very positive or extremely negative.

The new eCanter now features an electric axle motor, allowing for a wider range of chassis configurations including GVWs between 4.25t and 8.55t, six different wheelbases between 2,500mm and 4750mm, and three battery options.

Toyota is is investing around JPY400bn in Japan and JPY325bn, or USD2.5bn, in the USA to expand its battery manufacturing capacity by up to 40 GWh. 

CJPT, a research joint venture into alternative propulsion systems, decided that Hino's past wrongdoings - which includes falsification of data during emissions testing of its engines - were incompatible with its zero-carbon goals.

Tata Motor's associated battery JV has signed an agreement with Tata Motors to distribute its batteries through the OEM's extensive dealer and aftermarket network.

Joint Venture CJPT and components giant Denso Corporation have announced they are to work jointly to develop hydrogen-powered combustion engines for heavy-duty commercial vehicles. 

CJPT in Japan, a technology development partnership company and JV involving Toyota Motor Corporation, Hino Motors Ltd (a Toyota subsidiary) and Isuzu Motors Ltd, has announced a programme to research a standard, commercial, swappable and rechargeable battery cartridge for use in electric vehicles.

The three Japanese firms will develop hydrogen fuel cell-powered light trucks for the mass market through their research joint venture Commercial Japan Partnership Technologies, established last year to “help address various challenges facing the transportation industry as well as contribute to the achievement of a carbon-neutral society.”

Toyota, Daihatsu and others are working together to study more efficient ways of sourcing biomass and producing bioethanol for use as a fuel.

LG Energy Solution Ltd (LGES) Seoul, South Korea, has announced it is to supply traction (EV) batteries to Isuzu Motors Ltd of Shinagawa, Japan in a multi-year deal worth an estimated KRW1trn (USD765m).

250 Fuso Canter trucks CKD-assembled in South Africa going to Baker’s Inn bakery in Zimbabwe

Senior VP of sales, Kouji Maruyama, now President of UD Trucks