E3 is the name of the new platform that Toyota is developing specifically for Europe, which should only arrive in the second half of the current decade.
The new E3 will be compatible with conventional hybrid, plug-in hybrid and all-electric drivetrains, which will allow Toyota greater flexibility and the ability to adjust the engine mix to market needs.
Although new, the E3 will combine parts of the existing GA-C platforms (used, for example, in the Corolla) and e-TNGA, specific for electrics and debuted by the new electric crossover bZ4X.
Although it is still several years away, Toyota has already decided that the E3 will be installed at its plants in the UK and Turkey, where several models based on the GA-C are currently produced. The two factories have a combined total production of 450,000 units per year.
Why a specific platform for Europe?
Since it introduced TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) in 2015, from which platforms GA-B (used in Yaris), GA-C (C-HR), GA-K (RAV4) and now e-TNGA have come out, all platform needs seemed to be covered.However, none of the six 100% electric models foreseen that will derive from the e-TNGA will be able to be produced in the «old continent», forcing to import them all from Japan, as will happen with the new bZ4X.
By designing the E3 as a multi-energy platform (unlike the e-TNGA), it will allow the production of 100% electric models locally, together with its hybrid models, without the need to create specific production lines or even build a new factory for the purpose.
What models will the E3 be based on?
By bringing together parts of the GA-C and e-TNGA, the E3 will derive all of Toyota's C-segment models. We are thus referring to the Corolla family (hatchback, sedan and van), the new Corolla Cross and C-HR.
For now, it is not possible to confirm which model will debut the new base.
Source: Automotive News Europe