Toyota is doubling down on its iconic Land Cruiser, not just as a model, but as a sub-brand, signaling a significant shift towards electrification for this legendary nameplate. With plans to introduce not one, but two new Electric Land Cruiser models, Toyota aims to capture both younger demographics and the luxury SUV market, ensuring the Land Cruiser remains relevant in an evolving automotive landscape. These upcoming electric land cruiser variants, previously hinted at through concept vehicles, promise to blend the rugged heritage of the Land Cruiser with cutting-edge EV technology.
The first of these electric land cruiser models, previewed as the Land Cruiser SE concept in 2023, is anticipated to be a larger, comfort-focused SUV, distinguishing itself from the more off-road oriented J250 series Land Cruiser (Prado) making its way to North America. This electric iteration is expected to showcase advanced technologies, notably Toyota’s next-generation prismatic batteries. These batteries are touted to be more cost-effective to produce and boast higher energy density compared to current battery technologies, potentially offering enhanced range and performance for the electric land cruiser.
Industry sources suggest that this flagship electric land cruiser could make its debut around 2026, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of the Land Cruiser name. According to reports from Autocar, the combination of advanced technology and luxurious features positions this model perfectly for such a celebratory launch. Furthermore, Toyota is reportedly exploring even more advanced battery technology that could potentially be introduced by 2028. This next-gen battery could dramatically increase the range of this electric land cruiser, potentially reaching up to an impressive 621 miles (1,000 km) on a single charge, significantly alleviating range anxiety often associated with electric vehicles.
While the larger electric land cruiser SE leans towards on-road comfort and luxury, Toyota assures that it will still maintain a level of off-road capability expected of the Land Cruiser lineage. Although not as hardcore as the J250 Land Cruiser Prado in terms of off-road focus, the electric land cruiser SE is designed to offer “highly responsible handling” even when venturing off the beaten path. The inherent torque characteristics of electric motors are expected to provide ample power for tackling challenging terrains, ensuring it can confidently navigate hills and uneven surfaces.
On the other end of the spectrum, Toyota is planning a smaller electric land cruiser, aimed at attracting a younger customer base. This compact model, previewed by the Compact Cruiser EV concept in 2021, is anticipated to be similar in size to the Toyota bZ4X. However, it will differentiate itself by emphasizing style and utility, potentially drawing inspiration from the iconic FJ Cruiser in its design language. This strategic positioning suggests that the smaller electric land cruiser is intended to compete with upcoming compact electric SUVs like the rumored baby Land Rover Defender and Mercedes-Benz’s smaller G-Class, all of which are expected to combine compact dimensions with a rugged aesthetic appeal.
The smaller electric land cruiser is expected to ride on Toyota’s E-TNGA platform, the same architecture underpinning the bZ4X. Currently, this platform can deliver up to 214 horsepower and is paired with a 71.4 kWh battery pack offering a range of up to 259 miles. It remains to be seen how the boxier design of the compact electric land cruiser will impact its overall range and aerodynamic efficiency.
Interestingly, reports from Japan indicate that Toyota is exploring multiple powertrain options for this smaller Land Cruiser, including not only a battery electric version but also potential internal combustion engine (ICE) and hybrid variants. This multi-powertrain approach underscores Toyota’s commitment to catering to diverse market needs and preferences globally. Regardless of the powertrain, the overarching goal for this smaller electric land cruiser is to make the Land Cruiser brand more accessible and affordable, bringing it “within reach of more people around the world,” as stated by Toyota’s chief branding officer. By expanding the Land Cruiser lineup with these electric models, Toyota is strategically positioning itself to capture a broader market segment while upholding the legacy and appeal of this enduring automotive icon.
In conclusion, Toyota’s ambitious plan to introduce electric land cruiser models marks a pivotal moment for the Land Cruiser brand. By offering both a large, luxurious electric SUV and a smaller, more accessible electric option, Toyota is poised to solidify the Land Cruiser’s position in the electric vehicle era, appealing to both loyal enthusiasts and a new generation of drivers seeking electric SUVs with heritage and capability. The blend of tradition and innovation embodied in these electric land cruiser models signals a bright future for the Land Cruiser nameplate.
