On April 17th, reports from media outlets suggest that Toyota is planning to adjust its electrification strategy by introducing a series of electric vehicles, including the popular Highlander, known as Hanlanda in China. Additionally, a Lexus model sharing the same platform is also in the works.
The reason behind this move lies in Toyota's unsuccessful transition to electrification, as its debut electric vehicle, the bZ4X, failed to gain traction among consumers in both China and the US.
However, this doesn't signal Toyota's full commitment to electric vehicles. Reports indicate that Toyota's gasoline SUV model, the Grand Highlander, will continue to be sold to compensate for the shift of the Highlander to electric power.
It's well-known that Toyota's former leader, Akio Toyoda, has been skeptical about electric cars, openly criticizing them on multiple occasions. So, why the sudden focus on electric vehicles now?
The main reason is the leadership change at Toyota, with Tetsuo Ogawa taking over from Akio Toyoda. Ogawa advocates for a comprehensive approach, emphasizing a range of technologies including gasoline, hybrid (HEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), battery electric (EV), and fuel cell vehicles.
He has also called for significant modifications to the underlying platforms currently under development. Under his leadership, Toyota's shift towards electric vehicles doesn't come as a surprise. The industry awaits to see what achievements Toyota can make in the electric vehicle sector.
