Toyota appears to be shifting into high gear in preparation for the potential launch of an electric pickup truck in the US market. The Japanese manufacturer is reportedly benchmarking both the Tesla Cybertruck and Ford F-150 Lightning, fueling speculation that a similar electric pickup truck may be in development.
Toyota takes a closer look at the Tesla Cybertruck and Ford F-150 Lightning: A candid examination of two electric powerhouses in the automotive landscape?
At the 2022 Japan Mobility Exhibit in October, Toyota unveiled a compact electric pickup concept, hinting that such a vehicle might soon become a reality.
Toyota has reportedly been developing its mid-size electric pickup, the EPU, in secrecy over the past three years.
The EPU measures approximately 6 feet in length, 5.5 feet in width, and 5.5 feet in height, closely matching Ford’s Maverick dimensions of 6.2 feet long, 5.7 feet wide, and 5.6 feet tall. Like Ford’s Maverick, the EPU design has been streamlined to the bare essentials for enhanced usability.
This comfortable sleeping solution features a supplementary deep 4.5ft mattress that can potentially extend up to 6ft in length. With a rear cabin wall that folds, the electric truck offers up to 8 feet of versatile hauling space.
The Toyota EPU (Electrified Powertrain Option) may seem tailored to a distinct customer compared to those who purchase the Tacoma. Toyota’s concept for an electric pickup truck pays tribute to the Ram 1500 REV’s bold and striking front end, boasting a prominent grille and angular lines that command attention. Similar to Ram’s innovative electric vehicle concept, Toyota’s electrical pickup proposal showcases a unique feature: a passthrough compartment under the centre console, allowing users to transport lengthy items up to 12 feet in length.
According to a recent report, Toyota may be looking to expand its presence in the market. The company is currently conducting a benchmarking exercise, pitting its own offerings against those of Tesla, Ford, and General Motors in the form of the Cybertruck, F-150 Lightning, and Hummer EV pickups respectively.
According to sources within Toyota’s product development team, the company is conducting an in-depth examination of its full-size pickup trucks at two US-based research and development campuses, utilizing a diverse range of departments for a comprehensive review.
Toyota currently offers a single all-electric vehicle for sale in the US market: the bZ4X, an electric SUV. The 2024 Toyota bZ4X model starts at $43,070 (excluding a $1,350 Destination and Processing fee) with an estimated range of up to 252 miles.
The company has also announced plans to launch its inaugural three-row electric SUV in the US market. Toyota has committed $1.3 billion to upgrading its Kentucky facility for electric vehicle production.
What do you guys suppose? Should Toyota jump into the electric pickup market with a full-size model to challenge the likes of the Tesla Cybertruck and Ford’s F-150 Lightning? Tell us your ideas within the feedback.
