It's impossible to question Toyota's leadership in hybridization . The Japanese firm, headquartered in Aichi Prefecture, has been innovating in this area for years. However, before venturing into pure electrification, they decided to wait for their rivals to take the first steps. The reasons for this are many and varied, but the main and fundamental one has to do with the cost of batteries . Now that they are lower, they are taking the plunge decisively.
Their first electric model (Mirai aside) came from Lexus. The UX 300e was a game-changer, but that doesn't mean they're resting on their laurels. That's why they've updated the TNGA platform to adapt it to electrification. Now they're unveiling the e-TNGA platform and three very interesting teasers. These reveal what their first electric C-segment SUV , a rival to the new Volkswagen ID.4, will look like.
Toyota's e-TNGA platform will be the basis for this EV SUV
As Toyota explains in the press release, this platform is highly flexible. Its basic principle is simple: some mechanical components are fixed, while others can be repositioned . This allows for changes in the wheelbase, length, width, and height of the vehicle being developed. Furthermore, depending on the electric motors installed, the e-TNGA platform offers rear-wheel drive, front-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive.
All this versatility will significantly reduce the time needed to develop their electric vehicles . But Toyota hasn't been content with just technical details. As mentioned, they've released a first teaser showing the design of this electric SUV . While we can't go into detail due to a lack of information, its silhouette is very sleek and, in some ways, resembles that of the new Highlander and Venza.
However, the technical development of this mysterious electric Toyota is nearing completion . Furthermore, the brand confirms that they are already preparing the assembly line where it will be built. Production will take place at their ZEV factory in Japan , and from there it will be distributed worldwide. Finally, they announce that the remaining details will be released in the coming months, but we have a feeling that a leak will spoil the surprise. Place your bets, folks…
Source – Toyota
