Toyota Motor is exploring the possibility of expanding its U.S. truck lineup by introducing all-electric or plug-in hybrid electric variants of its Tacoma and Tundra pickups.
Jack Hollis, executive vice president of Toyota Motor North America, stated that the Japanese automaker is considering its options to determine the most suitable course of action in response to anticipated customer demand and increasingly stringent federal emissions and fuel economy regulations.
“I do think there’s room to grow our entire truck footprint. Whether it be Tundra, Tacoma or something else in addition to the lineup,”
Hollis remarked during the New York Auto Forum conference on Tuesday. “Whether that’s a compact or something else, I think it’s important for us to continue to see what the customers are looking for.”
While Toyota has previously discussed plans for a wide range of battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), including a midsize pickup akin to the segment-leading Tacoma, recent discussions have introduced the possibility of plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs).
Additionally, the president of Toyota Thailand confirmed this week that the company will introduce a BEV version of its small Hilux pickup for global markets, as reported by Reuters.
Hollis expressed enthusiasm for the electric Hilux but refrained from speculating on its potential availability in the U.S. market.
However, he confirmed that Toyota is actively considering both BEV and PHEV versions of the Tacoma and full-size Tundra. The Tundra received a redesign for the 2022 model year, followed by the Tacoma in the preceding year.
“We’re in the evaluation of both. There are reasons why a BEV can work and there’s a reason why PHEV can work,”
Hollis explained. “What’s the best mix of those based upon each of those two trucks or even for 4Runner or Sequoia [SUVs]?”
Currently, there are five all-electric pickup trucks available for purchase in the U.S., primarily positioned as luxury vehicles rather than mass-market models.
These vehicles are priced between $50,000 and upwards of $100,000, and sales have somewhat slowed following the initial rush of all-electric pickups to market.
There are presently no plug-in hybrid electric pickups on sale in the U.S., although Stellantis’ Ram brand is anticipated to introduce an “extended-range” plug-in vehicle equipped with an electric generator powering an engine later this year.
In response to the slower-than-expected adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and revised emissions regulations under the Biden administration, Toyota, along with other automakers, is reassessing its product portfolio.
José Muñoz, Hyundai president and global chief operating officer, indicated that the company is reviewing its plans to exclusively produce all-electric vehicles at a new plant under construction in Georgia, emphasizing its commitment to adjusting to market demand and regulatory requirements.
