Toyota Motor Europe has entered into partnerships with energy providers in several European countries to introduce smart charging services for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).

The initiative aims to create what the company describes as a seamless and intelligent charging experience for drivers, whether they are at home, at work or on the move.

From 2026, Toyota plans to launch demand side response-based charging services in the UK in collaboration with British Gas, and in Germany through The Mobility House Energy.

These services will support automated smart charging, shifting vehicle charging to off-peak periods when electricity prices are typically lower.

Users will be able to manage charging remotely and schedule it via mobile apps, and will also have the option to align charging with times when renewable electricity generation is higher.

According to the company, customers who join grid-balancing schemes will be eligible for incentives and rewards.

Toyota said the solutions are intended to contribute to electricity grid stability by smoothing demand, cutting the need for fossil fuel-based peaking plants and facilitating higher penetration of variable renewable sources such as wind and solar.

Toyota Motor Europe added that it plans to extend these energy partnerships to more countries and to introduce additional services, including Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) capabilities.

This technology will enable electric vehicles not only to draw power from the grid but also to supply electricity back when required.

Leon Van Der Merwe, VP circular economy and energy business at Toyota Motor Europe, said: “By enabling smart, flexible, and green charging, Toyota is helping to shape a future where mobility and energy work hand in hand for the benefit of customers, communities, and the planet.”