Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) showcased its Electrified Flex Fuel Vehicles at the 1st edition of the ‘The India Sugar & Bio-Energy Conference, 2023’. This event, organized by the Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA), the International Sugar Organisation (ISO), and the Government of India, focused on biofuels and their role in sustainable energy transition.
Event Overview
The conference witnessed participation from various stakeholders including government representatives, industry experts, and academicians. Over the course of two days, discussions revolved around the global sugar economy, innovative technologies in the bio-fuels sector, and strategies for inclusive growth.
TKM’s participation in the event aligns with its commitment to sustainability. The company aims to achieve Carbon Neutrality by 2050 on a vehicle life-cycle basis. It is also working towards achieving Net Zero Carbon in Manufacturing Operations by 2035.
Toyota Featured Vehicles
TKM showcased the prototype of World’s First BS 6 (Stage II) Electrified Flex Fuel Vehicle, based on its renowned Innova Hycross. This prototype was displayed alongside the Toyota-Brazil manufactured Corolla Flex-Fuel Strong Hybrid Electric Vehicle, highlighting Toyota’s global expertise in eco-friendly automotive solutions.
Ethanol as the Driving Force
Toyota’s advocacy for ethanol-based vehicle mobility aligns seamlessly with the recently launched Global Biofuel Alliance, a testament to India’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions. Ethanol, being a renewable and clean energy source, holds immense potential to drive India towards a future less dependent on fossil fuels, thereby reducing carbon emissions and enhancing economic prosperity.
India, with its abundance of renewable energy sources, surplus sugar, food grains, and biomass, stands on the cusp of a transformative energy future. Harnessing these resources, particularly through the production of ethanol from agricultural residues, presents an unparalleled opportunity to expedite the transition to cleaner energy.
Toyota Flex Fuel Technology for Tomorrow
Post 2025, India is poised to have a surplus of ethanol, surpassing the requirement for E20 regime. To fully capitalize on this potential, the adoption of Flex Fuel Vehicle technologies is imperative. The challenge of lower fuel efficiency, attributed to the lower energy density of Ethanol, can be surmounted through the integration of an electric powertrain. This innovative approach ensures both higher fuel substitution and commendable fuel efficiency.
Toyota’s emphasis on ethanol-based vehicle mobility resonates with the recent launch of the Global Biofuel Alliance. Ethanol, being a renewable and clean energy source, holds immense potential to reduce carbon emissions and drive economic growth.
India’s abundant renewable energy resources, surplus sugar, food grains, and biomass offer a significant opportunity for a transition to a cleaner energy future. The production of ethanol from agricultural residues presents a sustainable way to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.