In its 25th year in the nation, Toyota is poised to strengthen its manufacturing footprint in India with the introduction of a new factory, a noteworthy achievement for the company. The intentions for a third manufacturing site in Bidadi, Karnataka, are outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that Toyota and the Karnataka government signed. An estimated Rs 3,300 crores will need to be invested for this calculated move, which should create about 2,000 jobs.

Anticipated to commence operations by 2026, the new facility holds significant potential to contribute to Toyota’s annual increase in production capacity of one lakh units. The aggregate annual output of Toyota’s two Bidadi facilities, which is currently at 4 lakh vehicles, would increase significantly with this addition.

The future production facility will be the main source of production for a prospective three-row SUV that is being code-named the 340D. With an annual production target of 60,000 units, this SUV—a longer version of the Corolla Cross offered overseas—is expected to join the market by 2026.

The Corolla Cross-based SUV designed for India will be built on the same Toyota TNGA-C platform as the Innova Hycross. The India-bound Corolla Cross is anticipated to be longer by about 150mm to accommodate a third row of seats, despite the global model having a 2,640mm wheelbase.

The SUV is expected to have significant attractive and internal improvements, such as a completely rebuilt back end, new soft components, and a remodeled snout. Despite Toyota’s efforts to ramp up production, delivery of the higher-end variations are affected by the extended waiting period for the SUV type, which is linked to the worldwide semiconductor shortage.

Furthermore, Toyota hinted at the arrival of less expensive substitutes for cars like the Fortuner SUV and Hilux pickup truck in India when it unveiled its new IMV 0 ladder-frame platform at the Japan Mobility Show. The precise facility that will be using this technology to produce models is still unknown.

The launch of this new factory demonstrates Toyota’s commitment to supporting the regional economy and is in line with its “Make-in-India” strategy. Toyota’s strategic investment of Rs 3,300 crore shows its dedication to developing cutting-edge sustainable technology and stimulating the economy.

Although it is anticipated that the new facility will shorten wait times for popular models such as the Innova Hycross hybrid MPV, consumers may still have to wait until the plant opens in 2026. Toyota has invested more than Rs 16,000 crore in India overall, which has not only helped the country’s economy by creating jobs but also highlighted the brand’s important role in the country’s automotive industry.