Toyota Motor has announced that it anticipates spending approximately 1 trillion yen ($6.4 billion) each year starting in 2028 to modernize its factories through increased automation and robotics.
This significant investment reflects a broader trend in the automotive industry, where manufacturers are increasingly adopting robotics to reduce costs and address challenges such as aging infrastructure and labor shortages. The estimate encompasses not only Toyota but also its group companies and major suppliers, indicating a comprehensive approach to factory automation.
The company has indicated that around 400,000 robots will be necessary to facilitate this automation, which includes both replacing existing machines and introducing new humanoid and non-humanoid robots. Analysts from Bernstein have noted that this shift towards robotics could enhance investor interest in Toyota's growth potential beyond just automobile production.
They anticipate that announcements related to robotics will become more frequent as Toyota intensifies its efforts in this area. Other automakers, such as Hyundai, are also exploring similar strategies, with plans to deploy humanoid robots in their manufacturing processes, further underscoring the industry's pivot towards automation