Toyota Compact Cruiser EV: an electric car that could be the successor to the Toyota FJ Cruiser
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Toyota has unveiled a significantly expanded lineup of electric vehicles. These so-called "lifestyle" electric vehicle concepts include an SUV called the Compact Cruiser EV, which has begun to position itself as a favorite given its resemblance to Toyota's successful FJ Cruiser.
Despite early leadership in electrification with its industry-defining hybrid models, Toyota has long been a notable EV skeptic. During a major press conference for Battery EV Strategies on Tuesday, the Japanese automaker showed clear signs that it is changing its stance.
Toyota plans to release 30 electric models
The company has unveiled a wide range of battery-powered concepts, including a pair of off-road-ready models: the Compact Cruiser EV and the Toyota Pickup EV. The two concepts are part of Toyota's commitment to deliver 30 electric models worldwide by 2030.
Toyota Compact Cruiser EV
Visually, the Compact Cruiser looks the most interesting, fueling the seemingly annual rumor of a successor to the Toyota FJ Cruiser, the iconic SUV that has been missing from the U.S. market since 2014. Reminiscent of the Toyota FT Concept -4X from the 2017 New York Auto Show, including contrast color rear panels. In fact, the latest show car is likely a closer replacement for the Compact Cruiser EV, as this new car is more diminutive, giving it a crossover vibe rather than a truly hardcore Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco competitor.
Unfortunately, Toyota has not confirmed that a model that looks exactly like the Compact Cruiser EV will hit showrooms. But given the global rise in 4×4 SUVs and the growing interest in more sustainable ways to responsibly enjoy the outdoors, this model seems like a natural fit.
Toyota Compact Cruiser and Pickup EV Concepts Promise Strong Electric Future
On a much more traditional aspect, the Battery EV Strategies presentation also included a review of the Toyota Pickup EV, which is viewed as a battery-powered vehicle around the world. This medium-sized four-door pickup truck looks ready to roll out onto the showroom floor today. And with long-standing rumors that Tacoma's next platform is being designed with a battery in mind, this beefy 4x4 feels confident. In fact, it looks like this concept is a preview of both the electric truck and Tacoma with next generation IC technology.
Toyota electric tahoma
An all-electric Tacoma seems to make a lot of sense for Toyota. Tacoma has long led the midsize car class in terms of sales, and the model is considered a cornerstone of the company's profitability in North America. Building an electric version of one of its most popular and profitable models will largely offset the massive research and development costs associated with electric vehicles. Also, with the growing interest in electric trucks from companies like Tesla, Ford and Rivian, it seems like the time has come for a traditionally styled midsize electric truck to hit the roads of the United States and Canada.
Unfortunately, Toyota hasn't shared any powertrain specifications or performance targets for the Compact Cruiser EV or Pickup EV, let alone estimated sales start dates. It's fair to expect an electric pickup truck to hit the market before the Compact Cruiser, and either way, we expect them to come with more evocative names than the generic monikers Toyota decided to reveal on Tuesday.
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