Toyota's promised high-efficiency EV models will not hit the market in 2026 as expected. Toyota is delaying the launch of its next wave of EVs as it introduces new technology that promises to cut costs and speed up production.
Toyota is delaying the upcoming long-range Lexus EVs
Toyota joins a growing list of automakers to roll out a major EV plan. The Japanese auto giant is reportedly delaying the start of next-generation EV production as it develops new production technology.
At the Japanese auto show last October, we got our first look at the upcoming models. Toyota previewed its next-gen EV platform, showing off two Lexus concepts, the LF-ZC and LF-ZL, both expected to launch in 2026.
We may have to wait a little longer to see the production models. According to a report by a Japanese news agency NHKToyota is delaying the start of production of Lexus EVs until mid-2027.
Toyota says its upcoming High-Performance EV batteries can provide a WLTP driving range of more than 1,000 km (621 miles). They will also include fast charging capabilities (10% to 80%) in 20 minutes.
Its current bZ4X electric SUV reaches 516 km (321 miles) WLTP range, while its EPA-estimated range is up to 236 miles.
According to the report, Toyota postponed the date to give it time to introduce new production methods, including giga-casting, as they seem to reduce costs and speed up production.
Change comes after a while Nikkei The report says that Toyota is delaying production of the three-row electric SUV in the US until the first half of 2026. It was expected to begin assembling the new EV SUV at its Georgetown, Kentucky plant in 2025.
After notifying its suppliers, Toyota now expects to produce around 1 million EVs by 2026, down from the 1.5 million that was targeted.
The auto giant joins a growing list of competitors, including Ford, GM, Volkswagen, and others that have recently scaled back EV plans.
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