Toyota has announced plans to significantly expand its battery-electric vehicle (BEV) lineup, with several new models slated for release by 2026. The announcement indicates a strong commitment to electric mobility, particularly in the European market, with potential expansion to other regions, including the United States.
This expansion will introduce three new electric SUVs, including the Toyota C-HR+, which draws inspiration from the Prologue Concept unveiled in 2022, an improved bZ4X, and the Urban Cruiser. Furthermore, Toyota plans to add three more models by 2026, including an electric pickup truck.
While specifics regarding upcoming electric vehicles are limited, Toyota has emphasized the importance of practical SUV designs, distinctive styling, energy-efficient performance, and optional all-wheel drive. The vehicles will also embrace Toyota’s traditional model-naming strategy, a shift away from the alphanumeric designation used for the bZ4X.
An electric Toyota pickup truck is well within the realm of possibility. An electric Hilux model is expected this year, with an EV Tacoma concept revealed a few years ago. In 2023, Toyota showcased the EPU dual-cab EV truck concept at the Japan Mobility Show, suggesting its next-generation battery-powered pickups. The EPU is designed to compete with the Ford Maverick rather than replace the Hilux or Tacoma.
The other two upcoming SUVs remain unnamed. However, Toyota has also hinted at a production version of the Land Cruiser Se concept, which showed alongside the EPU concept. According to the automaker, this concept “explores how a BEV powertrain might be applied to the most iconic model in the Toyota range.”
Beyond 2026, Toyota intends to introduce its next-generation battery technology, although the precise timeline hasn’t been disclosed. The company says these new batteries will be characterized by both affordability and performance. Perhaps the most noteworthy detail is Toyota’s renewed confirmation of its solid-state battery development.
While updated details are scarce, the initial batches of such batteries will be offered to a small percentage of their vehicles. Toyota continues to maintain its multi-faceted approach towards carbon neutrality, despite the expansion of its BEV lineup. These new models are confirmed for Europe currently, but it wouldn’t be surprising if they eventually become available in the US, especially since the bZ4X needs a bit of bolstering in the market. If the electric SUVs and trucks arrive in 2026, it will be just in time to compete directly with Scout, which has already proven its popularity with American consumers, given its substantial number of existing reservations.
