Toyota Breaks Tradition with All-Electric LandCruiser Se and EPU Concept

Are you ready to embark on a journey where the LandCruiser and other Toyota icons ditch petrol and diesel for all-electric power, opening up new possibilities for adventure and sustainability?

Toyota is shaking things up with the introduction of the all-electric LandCruiser Se and EPU concept. These vehicles not only feature electric drivetrains, but also a monocoque passenger car-platform, departing from the traditional body-on-frame architecture. This signals a future where Toyota’s iconic models are available with more than just petrol or diesel power.

The LandCruiser Se stands out with its subtle Toyota lettering on the upper ‘grille’ and boxy silhouette, setting it apart from its internal combustion engine-powered counterparts. This spacious three-row seven-seat SUV aims to broaden the LandCruiser brand’s appeal and cater to the diverse needs of the world. Measuring 5150mm long, 1990mm wide, 1705mm tall, and with a 3050mm wheelbase, the LandCruiser Se offers plenty of room for passengers to lounge about comfortably. Its monocoque body paired with the e-TNGA architecture ensures highly responsive handling, making it capable of tackling rough terrains with confidence. Although, let’s be real, it’ll probably feel more at home in fancy neighborhoods like Toorak or Vaucluse rather than off-roading in the Simpson Desert.

Toyota has a track record of exploring brand extensions that may not sit well with traditionalists. Just look at the company’s sixteenth generation of the Crown, where they introduced crossover sedan and hatch variants based on the GA-K traverse engine and drive architecture shared with the Camry. They’ve also expanded the Century line to include a new crossover that takes inspiration from the Grand Highlander instead of the traditional rear-drive ultra-luxury saloon. So, it’s no surprise that Toyota is now venturing into the realm of all-electric vehicles with the LandCruiser Se and EPU concept.

Taking a closer look at the EPU concept, it seems to be Toyota’s answer to the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz, both car-based ‘lifestyle’ utes. The EPU shares similar dimensions with its competitors, measuring 5070mm long, 1910mm wide, and 1710mm tall. However, it sets itself apart with its longer wheelbase of 3350mm. While Toyota has not provided specific details about the drivetrains or production plans for these concepts, the presence of an interior in the EPU suggests it may be closer to production compared to the LandCruiser Se.

Peeking into the EPU’s interior, you’ll find a yoke-style steering wheel and a pair of overlapping screens – one for instrumentation display and the other for the touchscreen infotainment system. A pod houses the transmission shifter and controls for the electronic parking brake, engine stop/start, and hill hold assist. The dash features sturdy-looking hard surfaces with lipped areas for useful storage. Notably, there are multiple open and covered storage areas where a transmission tunnel would typically be found. Additionally, the images and press release indicate that the EPU has a large pass-through port, allowing for the transportation of long items from the tray to the passenger cabin.

In addition to the LandCruiser Se and EPU, Toyota is also introducing the Land Hopper concept. While some speculated that the Land Hopper would be a sub-Prado SUV, it turns out it’s a separate three-wheel ‘electric personal mobility concept’. Classified as a small motorized bike in Japan, the Land Hopper can be ridden by anyone over 16, even without a driver’s license. Designed for last mile transportation or as an alternative to cars for the young or a mobility aid for seniors, this compact 1355mm long vehicle can be folded up for storage and easily maneuvered with its ‘distinctive lean mechanism’.

The LandCruiser Se, EPU, and Land Hopper will be showcased at the Tokyo motor show. While we eagerly await further details on these innovative Toyota concepts, it’s clear that the automotive industry is shifting towards a future with more environmentally-friendly and diverse vehicle options.

• The LandCruiser Se is a spacious three-row seven-seat SUV that caters to diverse needs.
• The LandCruiser Se offers plenty of space for up to seven passengers to lounge about.
• The Se pairs a monocoque body with the e-TNGA architecture for responsive handling.
• Toyota has a history of adding crossover variants to its existing models.
• The EPU is a car-based ‘lifestyle’ ute with all-electric drivetrain and similar dimensions to its competitors.
• Toyota has not provided details about the drivetrains or production plans for these concepts.
• The EPU concept appears to be closer to production than the LandCruiser Se.
• The Land Hopper concept is a three-wheel ‘electric personal mobility concept’ designed for last mile transportation.

Toyota is breaking the mold with the all-electric LandCruiser Se and EPU concept, departing from traditional design and embracing a more environmentally-friendly future. These vehicles offer spacious interiors, responsive handling, and a glimpse into a world where Toyota’s iconic models come powered in various ways. Whether you’re a fan of traditional or innovative approaches, there’s no denying that Toyota is driving towards an exciting future.