This is the second major investment announcement for Toyota's Canadian manufacturing operation this year. In March, TMMC announced an investment of $80 million in its Woodstock, ON plant. Toyota is targeting early 2014 for expanded Lexus production. In August 2011, TMMC announced plans to start assembling electric versions of its RAV4 sport utility vehicle in Woodstock, Ontario under a partnership with California-based Tesla Motor - the first electric vehicle built in Canada.
The Province of Ontario, in partnership with the Government of Canada, supported the production of the RAV4 EV through their investment in Toyota's Project Green Light. The total investment among all partners could reach $545 million, with Ontario and the Government of Canada each providing $70.8 million towards Project Green Light. Since 2004, Ontario has produced more vehicles than any other state or province in North America thanks to its dedicated workers, state of the art technology and innovation. The province's auto industry contributes about $20 billion to the economy annually.
Brad Duguid, Minister of Economic Development and Innovation said "Our government understands the critical role of manufacturing in the Province's development and growth. Toyota's announcement strengthens Ontario's position as North America's leading jurisdiction for automotive assembly." Ray Tanguay, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada Inc. Chairman said "For almost nine years now, Canada has had the only Lexus production outside of Japan."
