Toyota Teases New All-Electric Land Cruiser – Coming Soon?

Toyota’s livestream event yesterday saw the Japanese automaker unveiled the latest Toyota Land Cruiser Prado model to the world, alongside the ‘facelifted’ Land Cruiser 70 Series. Beyond the two new models, Toyota has also dropped some hints on its plan to carry forward the Land Cruiser nameplate.

Two new Land Cruiser models teased during the new Land Cruiser Prado livestream event yesterday

Towards the end of the live broadcast, a slide was projected on the backdrop, showcasing the shadowy silhouette of two SUVs, possibly future Land Cruiser models.

The first teased model (left) vs Toyota Compact Cruiser concept EV (right)

After further inspection, one of the displayed models – the smaller one – appears to be somewhat similar to the Toyota Compact Cruiser EV concept model unveiled some time ago. Similar to the Compact Cruiser EV, the shadow-draped model also boasts a boxy side profile, similar LED headlight signature, as well as thick C-pillar section. The only notable difference between the two is the absence of a tailgate-mounted spare wheel.

Second teased model (left) vs Toyota bZ Large SUV concept EV (right)

Moving on to the next model, it seems this one is a tad bit bigger compared to the Compact Cruiser EV, while also featuring more sporty design and less boxy and chiselled design. At first glance, this one appears to be quite similar to yet another EV concept unveiled by Toyota a few years back, the Toyota bZ Large SUV. Upon further inspection, you’ll notice that this unknown model features few differences in design compared to the bZ Large SUV, notably its front fascia and sportier beltline that notches upward near the rear wheel arches.

Toyota's chief branding officer Simon Humphries (left)

Being a mere preview to the future of the Land Cruiser nameplate, Toyota has yet to issue nor unveil any additional details pertaining to these two new models. Speaking during said live event, Toyota Motor Corporation’s chief branding officer Simon Humphries said, “Our customers trust in us to keep LandCruiser relevant and thriving toward the future, and this future could mean anything from carbon neutral approaches, to ensuring the LandCruiser brand is more affordable and within reach of even more people around the world.”

Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda with Toyota's future EV concepts

From Humphries words, it is safe to say that the future Land Cruiser models will feature some form of electrification, or perhaps any other carbon-neutral alternatives to keep up with the demand and technological advancements in carbon-neutral automobiles. This is also in-line with the marque’s sudden EV push, where Toyota is planning to launch at least ten new EVs by 2026 under both Toyota and Lexus brands.

Could this Compact Cruiser EV being made into a production model in future's time?

These new EV models will feature a totally new chassis, electronics and software, all will be developed in-house by Toyota’s new BEV factory division. Prior to its 2026 deadline, Toyota is also planning to unveil several concept vehicles that’ll serve as a basis for the new EV models by the marque, taking place later this year at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show – formerly known as the Tokyo motor show.

As for the two future Land Cruiser models, it would be highly possible that they’ll be showcased in the flesh at the aforementioned Japan Mobility Show. Whatever plans Toyota have under its belt, the safest bet is to wait until October 26 this year, where the 2023 Japan Mobility Show will take place.