Toyota Prepares Land Cruiser Electric Version Can Be Produced In The United States
JAKARTA The Toyota Land Cruiser is known as a very tough and reliable SUV, able to survive extreme conditions, from deserts to mountains. This reputation was built for decades, making it globally trusted for long-term use.
Now, this Japanese manufacturer is reportedly opening a production space for two new electric SUVs at its factory in Kentucky, one of which is expected to bear the legendary name Land Cruiser. This strategic decision was made after the plan to transfer the production of the Lexus ES sedan model from the United States (US) returned to Japan.
Referring to Carscoops' report, Friday, September 12, Toyota's major move reflects changes in the global automotive market landscape, where sedan sales continue to decline while demand for SUVs and crossovers is accelerating. By producing the most popular cars in the US market, Toyota can also avoid potential tariffs applied to imported vehicles.
According to a previous Reuters report, these two new electric SUVs will be "based on the Land Cruiser and RAV4". One of them is a three-line electric SUV inspired by the Land Cruiser Se Concept, a prototype introduced in 2023. The car is designed to complement the Land Cruiser of two lines that are currently on sale in the US.
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The second electric SUV, which is said to be RAV4-based and has a three-line configuration, is thought to be a key model in Toyota's electrification strategy. Given that RAV4 is one of America's best-selling cars, a family-sized EV version of this familiar name could be a major breakthrough for Toyota's electric car line. The success of the RAV4 EV could be a solution to boost sales of Toyota's less than optimal electric car, replacing the role that bZ4X cannot fully fill.
Meanwhile, the production of the next generation of Lexus ES will be moved back to Japan. However, production of the Lexus TX and Grand Highlander at the Indiana plant will continue, even be increased, demonstrating Toyota's commitment to focus on the SUV segment in America.