Toyota will begin producing its first all-electric vehicle at the company’s Kolín factory in the Czech Republic, marking a significant expansion into European EV manufacturing.
The unnamed electric vehicle represents Toyota’s first EV to be manufactured at any of its European facilities. Production will transform the Toyota Motor Manufacturing Czech Republic (TMMCZ) site from 152,000 square meters to 173,000 square meters.
The expansion includes on-site battery production capabilities, a new paint shop, and welding facilities.
Toyota will invest approximately £592 million in the project. The Czech Government will contribute an additional £55.6 million specifically for the battery assembly facility.
The upgraded factory is expected to create 245 new jobs in Central Bohemia Region, where Kolín is located.
Government Officials Announce Partnership
Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala and Toyota Europe President and CEO Yoshihiro Nakata made the announcement official during a ceremony in Prague. Czech Republic’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Lukás Vlček, also attended the event.
Fiala emphasized the investment’s importance to the Czech Republic’s automotive sector.
“The investment will not only expand the current production in Kolín, it also represents an important step in the direction of a higher technological level and keeping car manufacturing in our country,” he said.
The Prime Minister noted that the automotive industry represents around 10% of the country’s GDP.
“If we want to keep it, we must systematically modernise it. It is exactly such projects that are crucial for the future of the Czech automotive industry.”
Nakata highlighted the project’s role in Toyota’s European strategy and sustainable mobility goals.
“This new battery electric vehicle production is testament to the dedication of our employees and the vision shared with the Czech Government to advance sustainable mobility and innovation,” he said.
“This advanced technology project will enhance our presence in the European market and contribute alongside our other solutions towards more efficient transportation.”
Factory Background and Production Capacity
The TMMCZ facility opened between 2002 and 2005. It currently produces the Aygo X and Yaris Hybrid models at a capacity of 220,000 vehicles annually.
Toyota hasn’t confirmed when EV production will begin at the Czech facility.
The Japanese automaker has accelerated its electric vehicle development after initially focusing on hybrid technology. In 2025, Toyota has unveiled several new electric models including the FT-Me compact car, the C-HR+ mid-sized SUV, an updated bZ4X, the 376bhp bZ4X Touring estate, and the Urban Cruiser compact crossover.
The Kolín factory expansion represents Toyota’s commitment to localizing EV production in Europe as the region transitions toward electric mobility.
