It appears the LandCruiser nameplate will continue to evolve in the future.
During Toyota‘s livestreamed event for the new-generation LandCruiser Prado and the updated LandCruiser 70 Series, the Japanese carmaker quietly dropped some hints of what to expect in future LandCruisers.
Toward the end of the presentation where two new LandCruiser Prados were on stage, a slide was projected on the backdrop that showed the shadowy silhouettes of two potential future LandCruiser SUVs, as well as a three-wheeled scooter.
One appears to be a production version of the Compact Cruiser EV concept that was first revealed as part of the 16 Toyota and Lexus electric concepts at the end of 2021.
The teased car has a similar boxy side profile, LED headlight signature, as well as a thick C-pillar as the Compact Cruiser EV concept. Some notable changes, however, include a tailgate-mounted spare wheel and a higher ride height.
The other teased vehicle at first glance appears to be similar to the bZ Large SUV concept that was also originally shown off at the end of 2021.
A closer look, however, reveals the front-end design is slightly different, there is a different side moulding, and the beltline flicks upwards.
At this stage it’s unclear if these teased future LandCruiser models will actually go into production, or if they are just being used as potential directions Toyota could head with the iconic nameplate that dates back to the 1950s.
If these teased LandCruiser models do go into production, it’s unclear if they will feature an electric powertrain.
“Our customers trust in us to keep LandCruiser relevant and thriving toward the future,” said Toyota Motor Corporation chief branding officer Simon Humphries during the livestream.
“And this future could mean anything from carbon neutral approaches, to ensuring the LandCruiser brand is more affordable and within reach of even more people around the world.
“What it may even mean exploring new approaches to mobility that enhance no only the LandCruiser experience but also further people’s freedom in motion.
“Suffice it to say there are lots of exciting paths to changing the future of cars.”
As previously reported, Toyota Motor Corporation (inc. Lexus) confirmed it will launch 10 electric vehicles (EVs) by 2026, by which time it aims to be selling 1.5 million pure-electric vehicles globally.
Toyota says the upcoming EVs will be launched “mainly” in the United States and China.
It says all vehicles scheduled for launch in 2026 will use new chassis, electronic and software platforms and will be developed and produced under the newly established BEV Factory division.
Toyota says it will present concept vehicles at this year’s Japan Mobility Show, former called the Tokyo motor show, that will preview the upcoming EVs. It runs from October 26 to November 5.
Toyota hasn’t announced plans to transition its eponymous brand to an all-electric line-up, though Lexus will go EV-only by 2035 and aims to be selling one million EVs annually by 2030.