Toyota to Build 3-Row Electric SUVs in Kentucky

EV Production in Kentucky

Toyota’s initial American-made battery electrical vehicles will certainly be integrated in Kentucky, the Japanese car manufacturer informed Reuters. Both will certainly be three-row SUVs– one based upon the Land Cruiser and one more based on the RAV4, according to a person familiar with the matter who spoke to Reuters.

That’s interesting information for Toyota followers, but it’s worth keeping in mind that while the report claims both new EVs will certainly be based on a few of one of the most well-known nameplates in the vehicle industry, they will likely be underpinned by the car manufacturer’s EV-specific e-TNGA system, and not a gas-powered style.

Manufacturing of the two EVs is anticipated to start next year at the same Kentucky plant where the current generation Lexus ES sedan is being built. American production of the combustion-powered Lexus will certainly end quickly, with assembly of the next generation being relocated to Japan.

Transition to Electric Vehicles

Toyota has been sluggish to ramp up its EV video game, however it’s ultimately overtaking the competition. The car manufacturer has been referred to as a laggard in the EV adoption race, with just a single Toyota-branded EV for sale now in the USA, the bZ4X. That will certainly transform soon, as the updated 2026 bZ will certainly be signed up with by the smaller sized C-HR and bigger bZ Timberland by the end of the year. Then, both brand-new three-row crossovers will adhere to.

By doing this, Toyota makes room for the two upcoming three-row SUVs that were teased earlier this year. The Land Cruiser Se concept was revealed in 2023, and regardless of it wearing a name that’s associated with overlanding and off-roading, the program auto is very much an asphalt-oriented equipment, with a size that’s almost identical to the Toyota Grand Highlander.