Elon Musk is focused on boosting Tesla’s sales in Japan, where Battery-Electric Vehicles (BEVs) account for only 2% of all car sales. This is a contrast to the soaring sales of EVs in the U.S. and Europe. Japanese automakers are currentlyprioritizing hybrids, which account for more sales in Japan than combined gasoline and diesel sales. Toyota’s chairman and other automotive leaders in Japan have expressed doubt about the environmental and commercial benefits of EVs. The hesitation to embrace EVs has also impacted the development of charging infrastructure in the country. However, Japanese carmakers are signaling a shift to electric vehicles. Toyota aims to launch 30 BEV models by 2030, while Honda plans for EVs and hydrogen fuel cell cars to make up 100% of sales by the year 2040.
Tesla and Toyota did not provide comments regarding the situation. Now, initiatives are being launched to boost the electrical vehicle efforts in Japan and to help create a more eco-friendly environment.