Toyota Estimates $6.4 Billion Annual Cost to Modernize Factories From 2028

According to CNBC, Toyota Motor estimates it could cost 1 trillion yen, or $6.4 billion, annually from 2028 to modernize its factories as the automaker expands automation and robotics. The estimate covers Toyota, group companies and major suppliers, and the company told investors that about 400,000 robots would be needed to support factory automation at those firms. The figure includes replacements for existing machines, new installations and both humanoid and non-humanoid robots. Toyota discussed the potential investment with investors earlier this month, linking it to industrial robots, automated logistics and future human-robot collaboration on the factory floor. Bernstein analysts said Toyota's growing focus on robotics could increase investor appreciation of growth opportunities beyond automobiles and said they expect robotics-related announcements to become more frequent as Toyota accelerates its efforts. Hyundai, which owns humanoid robot maker Boston Dynamics, has said it plans to deploy humanoid robots at its U.S. plant in Georgia from 2028.