U.S.-China startup aims to grow role in Toyota parts supply chain

SHANGHAI -- A multinational startup co-founded by U.S., Chinese and European engineers is looking to expand business with Toyota Motor for composite material auto parts that are lighter and stronger than steel and aluminum.

Yang Heng, general manager for China at Aerlyte, expects its technology to be used this year in RAV4 sport utility vehicles made by Toyota's U.S. arm. The RAV4 ranked third in global car sales by model from January to June 2023.