Toyota is set to showcase an electric Land Cruiser concept at the 2023 Tokyo Auto Show. The reveal of the Land Cruiser Se concept online over the weekend suggests that Toyota is considering an electric future for its iconic SUV model, although it appears more suited to urban environments rather than off-road adventures in challenging terrains like the Sahara.
The design of the concept gives it a polished and luxurious appearance, more akin to a high-end SUV rather than a rugged off-roader. Toyota has confirmed that the concept will feature a more car-like monocoque body structure, deviating from the traditional body-on-frame designs commonly seen in off-road vehicles.
While Toyota has not provided many technical details about the electric Land Cruiser concept, it has confirmed that the vehicle will measure 202.8 inches in length and have a wheelbase of 120.1 inches. In comparison, the 2024 Land Cruiser, which underwent a redesign, has a length of 193.7 inches and a wheelbase of 112.2 inches. Toyota has utilized the additional size of the concept to create a spacious interior with three rows of seating capable of accommodating up to seven passengers comfortably.
Based on the available information, the electric Land Cruiser is expected to feature an all-wheel-drive system powered by a high-capacity battery. Toyota has been actively developing batteries that are set to be launched within this decade. These batteries are anticipated to deliver range estimates of over 700 miles and support DC fast charging, with charging times of around 10 minutes. Such capabilities would serve the electric Land Cruiser adequately, ensuring it can handle long-distance journeys.
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Interestingly, this is not Toyota’s first venture into electric Land Cruisers. In 2021, the automaker created a prototype electric Land Cruiser based on the classic 70-series design from the 1980s, which is still utilized by commercial customers such as mining and forestry companies.
Alongside the electric Land Cruiser, Toyota will also be presenting concepts for an electric pickup truck, an electric sports car, and an electric crossover at the Tokyo Auto Show. Its luxury division, Lexus, will also preview its next-generation EV technology with a stylish sedan concept. This indicates that Toyota is accelerating its efforts in the electrification space after being relatively slow to join the electric vehicle (EV) movement.
Toyota’s EV plans are substantial, with the automaker aiming to launch 30 EVs globally by 2030. In addition, it plans to transform Lexus into an EV brand by the same date in the United States, Europe, and China, and eventually worldwide by 2035. These ambitious goals demonstrate Toyota’s commitment to shifting towards a more sustainable future and align with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change.
The 2023 Tokyo Auto Show, which opens its doors to the media on October 25, serves as a platform for automakers to showcase their latest innovations and future visions. Toyota’s presence at the event is an opportunity for the company to demonstrate its progress in EV development and highlight its commitment to meeting the evolving demands of the automotive industry and consumers.
In conclusion, the electric Land Cruiser concept presented by Toyota at the 2023 Tokyo Auto Show signals the automaker’s exploration of an electric future for its iconic SUV model. With its luxurious design and focus on urban environments, this electric Land Cruiser concept caters to the evolving needs and expectations of consumers. Toyota’s presence at the show, alongside its plans for a significant EV lineup, demonstrates the company’s determination to embrace sustainable mobility and contribute to the global transition towards a greener future.
