New Toyota electric cars will help brand with ZEV mandate

Toyota has revealed two more cars which will feature among the six dedicated electric vehicles (EVs) it wants to introduce by 2026. 

The two models will join its existing bZ4x model and the C-HR-sized bZ compact SUV, which was revealed last year, as part of Toyota's growing line-up.

The Urban SUV Concept is a close-to-production design for a model that is expected to launch in late 2024. Thought to be co-developed with Suzuki, the B-SUV electric car will be the smallest and cheapest EV in Toyota's planned six-model battery electric vehicle range , which Toyota predicts will be one of the largest markets for EVs in Europe.

The carmaker says it draws on the success of the hybrid electric Toyota Yaris Cross, a top-selling model in its class. As well as the option of all-wheel drive – a key element for Toyota products – customers will also have two battery choices to suit their budget or driving range requirements. 

The larger model, Sport Crossover Concept, will provide an "attractive proposition" for first-time electric car customers and a stylish alternative to SUVs, says Toyota. Developed in conjunction with BYD, it is scheduled for introduction in Europe in 2025.

It offers maximum comfort combined with the practicality of five doors, a large boot and generous rear leg room.

Yoshihiro Nakata, president and CEO of Toyota Motor Europe, said: “While we will continue to offer multiple carbon reduction technologies, we will also steadily increase the number of zero-emissions vehicles we offer to customers.” 

In Europe, Toyota’s electrified mix - mostly hybrid and PHEV -  is already at 71% and is expected to grow to 75% in 2024. This will further expand with new battery electric vehicles playing an increasingly significant role in its sales volumes.

  Some industry observers believe Toyota is one of the traditional carmakers that is having to play catch-up after UK and EU governments made plain their deadlines for zero emission vehicles to dominate new car sales.

By 2026, Toyota Motor Europe will offer around 15 different zero emission vehicles under the Toyota brand, from passenger cars to light commercial vehicles. At this time, Toyota’s European EV mix is expected to be more than 20% with more than 250,000 vehicle sales per annum.