Toyota shook up the European automotive market by confirming the launch of three new fully electric vehicles by 2026. Among the highlights is the long-awaited electric pickup truck, in addition to SUVs that promise to electrify important segments for the brand.
Toyota Electric Pickup: A New Era for Trucks?
The confirmation of an electric pickup by Toyota has generated great anticipation. Although the company has not revealed crucial details, such as whether it will be an electrified version of the iconic Hilux or a brand-new model, the news is a milestone. Toyota had previously presented the EPU concept in 2023, but the teaser released suggests a more robust design aligned with the Hilux, a global leader in midsize pickups. The strategy may involve platform sharing with a future electric Tacoma in the U.S., aiming to optimize costs and technologies.
The electric pickup market is in full expansion, and Toyota’s entry into this segment is a strategic move. With the growing demand for sustainable vehicles and the brand’s strength in the truck market, Toyota’s electric pickup has the potential to become a significant player. It remains to be seen whether the Japanese automaker will innovate with a completely new model or rely on the tradition and robustness of the electrified Hilux.
Electric SUV Land Cruiser on the Horizon?
In addition to the pickup, Toyota’s teaser revealed silhouettes of electric SUVs. One of them, with a robust profile and a sloping roof at the rear, closely resembles the Land Cruiser Se concept from 2023. This three-row electric SUV, slightly larger than the hybrid Land Cruiser, could be one of Toyota’s major bets to electrify the large SUV segment. The confirmation of an electric Land Cruiser would represent the modernization of an iconic brand, merging tradition and sustainability.
Another electric SUV glimpsed in the teaser recalls the bZ Large SUV concept from 2021. With sleeker lines and a profile reminiscent of the current Crown Signia, this model could be the production version of the bZ Large SUV, possibly dropping the “bZ” nomenclature. Toyota seems to be diversifying its line of electric SUVs, offering options for different audiences and needs, ranging from more robust family models to more aerodynamic urban options.
Toyota and Lexus Electric Expansion in Europe
The announcement of the pickup and electric SUVs is part of a broader plan by Toyota to expand its offering of electrified vehicles in Europe. Recently, the brand has also presented updates for the bZ4X, a F Sport version of the Lexus RZ, and the compact FT-Me concept, indicating a consistent move towards electrification. Lexus will also gain two new electric models in Europe, following the line of concepts presented in 2021, which included an electric sedan and a three-row SUV.
While details about the new electric models are scarce, Toyota signals an ambitious electrified future. The arrival of the electric pickup and the Land Cruiser and bZ Large SUV, along with the expansion of the Lexus EV lineup, demonstrates the brand’s commitment to sustainable mobility in Europe. More information is expected to be revealed in the coming months, including technical details, launch dates, and the possibility of some of these models arriving in other markets, such as the United States.
| Expected Model | Segment |
|---|---|
| Electric Pickup | Midsize Pickup |
| Land Cruiser EV | Large SUV |
| bZ Large SUV | Midsize/Large SUV |
Author: Fabio Isidoro
Fabio Isidoro is the founder and editor-in-chief of Canal Carro, where he has been writing about the automotive world since 2022. Passionate about cars and technology, he began his journey on the HospedandoSites portal and today dedicates himself to creating technical content and comprehensive analyses of national and international vehicles. 📩 Contact: contato@canalcarro.net.br