Toyota, a company once considered slow in the electric vehicle race, is showing its unique vision with strategic insight. At the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, Toyota made a splash by unveiling two stunning Lexus electric vehicles, anticipated to debut in 2026.
However, just 14 months later, reports indicate that these plans are now on hold. According to a report from NHK Japan, the production of the Lexus LF-ZC and LF-ZL has been postponed until mid-2027. Unlike many competitors who are slowing their electric vehicle rollout due to demand concerns, Toyota's delay appears to be more strategic.
The reasoning behind this decision is that the company is taking additional time to enhance its manufacturing processes, particularly in implementing the gigacasting technology. The Lexus LF-ZC and LF-ZL are not just important members of the Toyota family but are also distinguished by their advanced designs and technologies, which will transfer to other models.
Both will be supported by a new electric vehicle platform made from a standard gigacasted structure consisting of front, middle, and rear sections. Toyota stated that this means the front and rear of the electric vehicles are structurally independent, allowing for the integration of new and improved batteries in the future.
Speaking of batteries, the new Lexus electric cars are set to feature advanced prismatic battery cells, with Toyota promising a range of up to 1,000 kilometers, an impressive claim considering Toyota is not typically one to make inflated promises.
Last year, it was also revealed that the new Lexus electric vehicles would be produced in an advanced assembly plant, and according to the company, the vehicles will be capable of autonomous driving using their battery and motor. LF-ZC and LF-ZL are not the only models affected by Toyota's evolving electric vehicle timeline. In October, the company revealed that its three-row electric SUV, originally slated for production in 2025, would also be delayed to mid-2026.
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Adrian is an Editor. Psychology graduate with over 4 years in the automotive industry, 3 in front of the camera. Occasionally seen at his family owned tyre shop. He will only buy cars that pass the big bottle test.