Toyota unveils all-electric Land Cruiser concept

Toyota has pulled back the curtain on its electrifying plans for this year's Japan Mobility Show, revealing an all-electric Land Cruiser concept that could be set to rival other three-row EV competitors, or simply hint at what's on the horizon.

Dubbed the Toyota Land Cruiser 'Se', the vehicle boasts an eye-catching, angular, boat-like design, complemented by a stretched hood, a sleek, sweeping windshield and a rounded posterior crowned with a visor taillight design. Notably, this seven-seater concept offers a generous 120.08-inch wheelbase and measures 202.76 inches in length, 78.35 inches in width, and 67.13 inches in height. This means it sports a more expansive stance but a shorter stature compared to the petrol-powered 2024 Land Cruiser, which has a wheelbase of roughly 112 inches.

The amplified space between the wheels is presumably to accommodate a battery, and Toyota has evidently prioritised aerodynamics across the design, right down to the inclusion of digital side-view mirror cameras. In a rather endearing nod to the qualities of EVs, Toyota highlights the hushed nature of electric cars, noting how this tranquillity "helps create a comfortable cabin space when driving in urban areas."

For aficionados of the legendary petrol off-roader, the good news is that the Land Cruiser Se is touted to be rugged enough to tackle challenging terrains, even if its appearance might suggest it's more suited to being your next Uber XL to the airport.

But the Land Cruiser wasn't the sole star of Toyota's showcase. The automaker also introduced the EPU, a concept midsize electric pickup truck tailored for outdoor excursions, complete with a cabin that seamlessly extends to the deck. Measuring 199.61 inches in length and 75.2 inches in width, its design is notably more svelte than the purchasable Rivian's R1T recreational pickup.

Additionally, Toyota is flaunting two innovative personal transport solutions: the 'Land Hopper', a nifty foldable electric trike featuring leaning front wheels for nimble manoeuvring, and the powered "Juu" wheelchair, which remarkably can ascend and descend stairs. For the more adventurous, or perhaps those with interstellar ambitions, Toyota teased a Space mobility prototype intended to navigate rocky extraterrestrial terrains. This two-seater space ATV technology is expected to be incorporated into Toyota's forthcoming Lunar Cruiser vehicle.

Presently, Toyota's electric Land Cruiser stands out as the brand's maiden venture into the realm of large electric family transport. As the automotive world shifts gears towards electrification, rivals like Hyundai's upcoming EV9 three-row EV are catching attention. The challenge for Toyota? Simple. Produce exceptional EVs and bring this Land Cruiser to the masses.