Toyota’s Electric Yaris: A Future Plan
While the electric vehicle (EV) transition is in full swing, not all car models will switch over at the same pace. One model that’s slated for electrification but not immediately is the Toyota Yaris, according to recent comments from Toyota executives.
“This is the idea, but now it is not something we talk about,” said Andrea Carlucci, Toyota Europe’s product and marketing boss, as reported by Autocar. The company is strategically focusing its initial EV efforts on the faster-growing C, D, and E segments. While an electric Yaris isn’t imminent, it could appear as early as 2030.
Toyota is set to launch three new EVs by 2026, including a pickup truck, an SUV, and a “fastback,” according to Autocar. When an electric Yaris does arrive, it’s expected to retain the Yaris name, avoiding the alphanumeric nomenclature seen in models like the bZ4X.
Scott Thompson, the head of Toyota UK, noted that for the company, the focus is “all about the right car, the right place at the right time.” The current expansion strategy is focusing on what Toyota deems “the right segments for Europe.”
Toyota’s decision to prioritize larger EVs makes economic sense. EV investments are substantial, and larger vehicles typically offer higher profit margins. Plus, bigger vehicles accommodate battery packs more easily.
The current generation of the Yaris, which was introduced in 2020, might see its lifecycle extended until the introduction of a potential electric version. The future of an electric Yaris in the North American market is uncertain. The U.S. does not currently offer the standard Yaris due to insufficient demand for supermini hatchbacks, so an electric variant is unlikely.
However, if the electric Yaris proves successful in other markets, it could potentially pave the way for an electric Corolla, which is more likely to be available in the US.
The question that enthusiasts are really asking is: will there be an electric GR Yaris? Following the gas-powered GR Corolla’s release after the GR Yaris, an electric GR Corolla is a real possibility, which most enthusiasts would welcome.
