While The World’s Leading Automakers Are Following Tesla’s “Gigacasting,” Toyota Is Not Yet Ready to Join the EV Race

In the rapidly evolving world of electric vehicles (EVs), automakers are constantly seeking innovative strategies to streamline production and enhance efficiency. Tesla, led by Elon Musk, has been a trailblazer in this arena, especially with its adoption of “gigacasting” since 2020. This technique has not only revolutionized Tesla’s manufacturing process. But it also inspired other industry giants like General Motors (GM.)

However, Toyota, the top-selling automaker of 2023, is charting a different course, signaling a more cautious approach to EV production and gigacasting.

Tesla’s Gigacasting Revolution

Gigacasting, a term popularized by Tesla, refers to the process of using gigantic casting machines to produce large parts of a vehicle’s frame in a single piece. This method significantly reduces the number of parts needed, streamlining assembly and cutting costs.

So, it is a game-changer in the industry, offering a blend of efficiency and innovation. Tesla’s implementation of gigacasting, starting with the Model Y in 2020, marked a pivotal shift, encouraging others to follow suit.

Mike / Pexels / General Motors – another giant automaker – has already announced that it will be using “giga press” machines in 2025. And this is an inspiration from Musk’s Tesla.

The Industry’s Response: Following Tesla’s Lead

The ripple effect of Tesla’s innovation is evident. GM, another automotive behemoth, has announced plans to employ “giga press” machines by 2025. A move clearly inspired by Tesla’s success.

Similarly, Volvo is gearing up to utilize casting techniques in producing its third generation of EVs. These decisions underscore a broader industry trend: the shift towards more efficient, less fragmented manufacturing processes, largely catalyzed by Tesla’s pioneering efforts.

Toyota’s Unique Stance

Despite the industry’s enthusiastic embrace of gigacasting, Toyota remains an outlier. As the top-selling automaker in 2023, Toyota’s hesitance to fully commit to mass-producing fully electric vehicles is notable. Their approach is more measured, emphasizing a gradual integration of gigacasting into their production lines.

Screen / Pexels / In October 2023, Toyota said the automaker is yet to mass produce fully electric vehicles.

Toyota aims to blend this new technique with its existing, more traditional methods. This strategy reflects a cautious, yet thoughtful approach to adopting new technologies, prioritizing a balance between innovation and reliability.

Learning from Tesla, But on Their Own Terms

Toyota’s acknowledgment in September that it has much to learn from Tesla in EV production is a significant admission. However, the leading automaker is clear about not replicating Tesla’s formula outright. This stance is not just about maintaining their unique identity in the market. It is about tailoring innovations to fit their established production ethos.

Roger / Pexels / Toyota – the top-selling automaker of 2023 – says that the company is not yet prepared to mass produce fully electric vehicles right now.

However, Toyota’s approach is a testament to the diversity in the automotive industry’s adaptation to the EV revolution. Not every player follows the same path. Even when facing similar technological advancements.

The Future of EV Production: Diverse Paths to a Common Goal

As we look towards the future, it is clear that the path to EV dominance is not a one-size-fits-all. While Tesla’s gigacasting has set a new benchmark, companies like Toyota are proof that there are multiple ways to approach this shift.

Toyota’s strategy might be slower and more deliberate. But it is equally valid. It underlines the company’s commitment to quality and its established production practices.