What batteries does Toyota use?
In brief, Toyota primarily relies on nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries for its traditional hybrids, while plug-in hybrids and battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) use lithium-ion (Li-ion) packs. The company is also pursuing solid-state batteries for future models. This mix varies by model and region, but NiMH remains the workhorse for most non-plug-in hybrids, with Li-ion dominating the company’s plug-ins and BEVs.
Beyond that quick snapshot, the choice of battery chemistry maps to vehicle type and market. Classic hybrids such as the Camry Hybrid and RAV4 Hybrid typically use NiMH cells, whereas plug-in variants like the Prius Prime and RAV4 Prime rely on Li-ion packs. Toyota’s BEVs, including the bZ4X and Lexus’ RZ 450e, also use Li-ion cells. The batteries come from established partners, notably Primearth EV Energy (a Toyota joint venture) for NiMH, and Panasonic as a key Li-ion supplier, with ongoing research into next-generation solid-state technology for future adoption.
Battery chemistries by vehicle type
The following categories describe how Toyota typically outfits its electrified lineup, with representative examples.
- Hybrids and non-plug-in hybrids: Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries are standard, though Li-ion has been explored in some markets or for certain high-performance variants.
- Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs): Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery packs are used to provide higher electric range; examples include the Prius Prime and RAV4 Prime, with varying capacity depending on model.
- Battery-electric vehicles (BEVs): Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery packs power fully electric models such as the bZ4X and the Lexus RZ 450e, with pack sizes and chemistries tailored to each model and market.
In short, NiMH remains central for conventional hybrids, while Li-ion is the standard for plug-ins and BEVs, complemented by ongoing research into next-generation solid-state solutions.
Future developments and partnerships
Toyota continues to expand its electrified toolkit through partnerships and research aimed at higher energy density, faster charging, and cost reductions. Solid-state battery technology is a major focus for the company, with plans to move from lab-scale development toward pilot production and eventual commercialization later in the decade.
Solid-state ambitions
Toyota has publicly outlined its pursuit of solid-state batteries as a next-generation option that could offer higher energy density and faster charging. While widely anticipated, mass-market deployment depends on overcoming manufacturing, cost, and durability challenges, with pilots and gradual rollout expected as technology matures.
Battery suppliers and partnerships
Key partnerships support Toyota’s battery strategy. Primearth EV Energy (PEVE) remains a major source of NiMH cells for traditional hybrids, while Panasonic supplies Li-ion cells for many of Toyota’s plug-in and BEV applications. These relationships help Toyota scale electrification while pursuing improvements in energy density and cost.
- Primearth EV Energy (PEVE) — NiMH batteries for most hybrids.
- Panasonic — Li-ion battery cells for plug-in hybrids and BEVs, with ongoing development and supply arrangements.
These collaborations are central to Toyota’s approach to building a broad, affordable electrified lineup across markets, even as the company advances its own research into next-generation battery technologies.
Summary
Toyota’s battery strategy centers on NiMH for the majority of traditional hybrids and Li-ion for plug-ins and BEVs, with solid-state batteries in the pipeline for future generations. The company collaborates with PEVE for NiMH and Panasonic for Li-ion cells, reflecting a balanced approach to reliability today and innovation for tomorrow.
Who manufactures batteries for Toyota?
Toyota makes its own batteries through subsidiaries like Toyota Battery Co., Ltd. (formerly Primearth EV Energy) and joint ventures, and also sources batteries from external suppliers like LG Energy Solution. The company is also investing in its own battery manufacturing facilities in the U.S., such as the new plant in North Carolina, to produce batteries for its hybrid and electric vehicles.
Toyota's own production
- Toyota Battery Co., Ltd.: Formerly Primearth EV Energy (PEVE), this company is now a wholly-owned subsidiary focused on producing batteries for hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and battery electric vehicles.
- Toyota Battery Manufacturing North Carolina: Toyota's new plant in Liberty, North Carolina, began shipping batteries in June 2025 and will support various vehicle types.
External battery suppliers
- LG Energy Solution: Toyota has an agreement with LG Energy Solution for a long-term supply of batteries for its electric vehicles, with production starting in 2025.
- Other suppliers: Toyota also works with other companies like Prime Planet Energy & Solutions (Toyota 51%, Panasonic 49%) to produce batteries.
- Johnson Controls: Some sources suggest that Johnson Controls (which also makes Interstate batteries) is the manufacturer for some genuine Toyota 12v batteries.
Who is Toyota battery partner?
Sumitomo Metal Mining
Sumitomo Metal Mining and Toyota Motor Corporation have entered into a joint development agreement for the mass production of cathode materials for all-solid-state batteries to be installed in battery-electric vehicles (BEVs). The two companies will advance development through this collaboration.
What brand of car battery does Toyota use?
Toyota uses its own brand, Toyota TrueStart™ batteries, for its vehicles, which are designed specifically for Toyota models. These are often manufactured by other companies like Exide for Toyota. For hybrid and electric vehicles, Toyota uses a combination of its own developed lithium-ion batteries and is also working on advanced solid-state battery technology for future models.
For standard gasoline vehicles
- Brand: Toyota TrueStart™ batteries are the genuine option, built to meet the specifications of Toyota engineers.
- Manufacturer: While the brand is Toyota, companies like Exide manufacture them in North America.
- Replacement: You can purchase these through a Toyota dealership.
For hybrid and electric vehicles
- Brand: Toyota develops and uses its own lithium-ion batteries for its hybrid and electric models.
- Future technology: The company is actively developing and plans to roll out solid-state batteries for its electric vehicles starting around 2027-2028.
Is Toyota using BYD batteries?
The Toyota bZ3 is a battery electric compact sedan jointly developed by Toyota, BYD Auto and FAW Toyota through the BYD Toyota EV Technology (BTET) joint venture and produced in China since 2023. It is the first battery electric sedan by Toyota, and the first sedan from the bZ series.
