Toyota Material Handling North America to open energy storage solutions R&D center

Toyota Material Handling North America (TMHNA), comprised of two main companies, Toyota Material Handling and The Raymond Corporation, will establish an advanced energy storage solutions development, prototyping and test center in Henrietta, N.Y., Toyota announced today.

The research and development center, located at 1565 Jefferson Road, will see TMHNA collaborate with Rochester area energy storage resources to further support its own and Toyota Industries’ advanced energy solutions technology efforts, including lithium-ion batteries and fuel cells. As a result, TMHNA has committed to creating up to 40 new jobs. The company expects to begin preparational activities at the site immediately and be operational at the testing center in the spring. Currently, TMHNA employs 2,560 workers statewide.

Empire State Development (ESD) President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Governor Hochul and ESD remain laser-focused on expanding New York State’s green economy by supporting the creation of 21st century research and development and manufacturing jobs. Toyota Material Handling North America’s continued commitment to driving alternative energy applications for the lift truck industry is truly commendable, and we are thrilled that they are moving full speed ahead with all the opportunities that the state and Finger Lakes region have to offer.”

Toyota Material Handling and The Raymond Corporation have a combined 150 years in the industry, providing total solutions, including the latest research and advancements in alternative energy and forklift battery technology, being the first U.S. manufacturer to establish UL certification for an integrated lithium-ion battery and forklift solution.

President and CEO of Toyota Material Handling North America and Senior Executive Officer at Toyota Industries Group Brett Wood said, “We look forward to working alongside ESD to establish an energy storage and fuel cell development and testing center in Henrietta, New York. We are honored to contribute to the growth of this community while advancing innovation in sustainable technology. This initiative signifies our commitment to excellence and underscores our dedication to environmental stewardship. Through this venture, we aim to create new jobs, empowering individuals and driving progress toward a better and brighter future.”

ESD is assisting the company with the project by providing up to $1.5 million through the performance-based Excelsior Jobs Tax Credit program. County of Monroe Industrial Development Agency and Greater Rochester Enterprise also provided support for the venture. The total project cost has been placed at a little more than $2 million. The company had considered locating its new, state-of-the-art R & D facility elsewhere, but selected the Finger Lakes region due to its world-renowned reputation for available top-notch talent and its innovative technology base.

State Senator Jeremy Cooney, said, “With Toyota Material Handling North America’s new facility, cutting edge energy innovations will be happening in Henrietta. Our region's workforce talent continues to attract businesses to Monroe County, and I am looking forward to seeing the impact this project will have for our workers and our community’s continued economic growth.”

Monroe County Executive Adam Bello, said, “Toyota Material Handling North America’s decision to establish an advanced energy storage solutions research and development facility in the Town of Henrietta is a pioneering leap into the future of our green economy. I applaud TMHNA for their vision and leadership and for recognizing Monroe County’s strength as a hub for high-tech innovation. We're grateful to Empire State Development and Gov. Kathy Hochul for their commitment to our economy, job creation, and advancing sustainability in our region.”

Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce President and CEO and Finger Lakes Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chair Bob Duffy, added, “As a storied company with roots in Upstate New York, Toyota Material Handling North America’s commitment to growth in Greater Rochester underscores the vitality of our region, including an exceptional talent pool and innovative technology ecosystem. Congratulations to president and CEO Brett Wood and his team, and we look forward to collaborating with Toyota Material Handling and The Raymond Corporation to unlock even more opportunities for growth.”

Matt Hurlbutt, President and CEO, Greater Rochester Enterprise, said, “As a leader in the energy innovation sector, the Greater Rochester, NY region is the perfect location for Toyota Material Handling North America to establish an energy storage and fuel cell development center. GRE helped connect TMHNA leaders to economic development partners and the battery and energy storage expertise and integrated ecosystem available in the Greater Rochester, NY region to support the company’s growth plans.”