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Toyota (TM) reintroduced its once-popular Highlander three-row SUV as a full EV with improved capabilities, simply because the trade pushes away from expensive battery electrics.
Toyota, which was late to the EV recreation, hopes there’s a gap at the same time as demand for EVs has waned. The present gas-powered Highlander might be phased out, because the bigger Grand Highlander usurped its consumers, leaving a gap for the brand new Highlander as a completely electrical choice.
The 2027 Highlander comes with completely new styling, together with a sleeker, low-profile look, however retains the three-row SUV format that made it fashionable.
The Highlander options seating for seven passengers and a brand new inside design with a 14-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch driver’s show, and Toyota’s newest multimedia infotainment and driver security programs.
The SUV comes with two battery choices — 77.0 kWh and 95.8 kWh — with the bigger model able to 320 miles of vary.
Toyota stated the automobile might be assembled at its Kentucky manufacturing unit and its battery modules will come from Toyota’s North Carolina battery plant, so it received’t be uncovered to tariffs.
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The Highlander might be Toyota’s first three-row EV SUV. Deliveries will start in late 2026, with pricing out there nearer to launch.
“We consider that battery electrical autos are an necessary a part of the trade, and we need to make a number of out there to clients,” Toyota Motor North America group vice chairman David Christ stated on the launch occasion. “We went from one to 4 [EVs] in 2026, so we’re actually enthusiastic about that choice for purchasers, not solely in pricing, but additionally in measurement and capabilities. So we actually have a BEV for everyone.”
Although a compelling product, the brand new Highlander comes as EV gross sales have been waning within the US, with the lack of the federal EV tax credit score hurting EV gross sales. In some circumstances, shoppers have additionally balked at EVs attributable to typically increased prices and issues about charging infrastructure within the US.
Toyota is a giant proponent of hybrids, that are huge sellers within the US, so the pivot to extra EVs is curious. It may be the case that Toyota sees a gap right here as different rivals withdraw, particularly if the Japanese auto large can assemble the autos cost-effectively.
The Huge Three automakers have collectively booked $52.1 billion in losses and impairments associated to their EV companies.
When it comes to bigger EV SUVs, Ford (F) canceled its three-row EV idea attributable to demand and worth. Volkswagen (VWAGY) will cease importing its ID. Buzz large-form EV after being out there for just one 12 months within the US.
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