Toyota next in line to embrace aluminum?

Toyota is reportedly preparing its own transition to aluminum components for many models.

The scale of the material switch is not expected to be quite as significant as Ford’s gamble with the new F-150, but rather a slower evolution that will help manage curb weights over the span of several years.

The first Toyota model on the list is said to be the Lexus RX 350, which will get an aluminum hood and liftgate for the 2016 model year, unnamed sources have told Automotive News.

More importantly, the high-volume Camry sedan is expected to be outfitted with an aluminum hood for the 2018 model year.

“Toyota has plans to use aluminum on future vehicles for hood, closures and parts for light weighting,” Toyota spokeswoman Jana Hartline said. “Also, we will increase usage of mix metals and resin materials to enhance light weighting efforts.”

The Japanese automaker has reportedly penned a supply deal with Kobe Steel to source 100,000 tons of aluminum sheet annually.