Toyota initiated the electrified vehicle era well before it gained mainstream appeal, launching the Prius in the late 1990s.

This vehicle not only attracted attention but also redefined consumer expectations of hybrid technology and positioned Toyota as a leading proponent of practical electrification.

In recent years, however, as rival manufacturers advanced rapidly in the development of battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), Toyota appeared to fall behind, seemingly hesitant to commit fully to the all-electric transition.

The company is now undergoing a strategic shift and preparing for a significant expansion of its EV portfolio in an effort to catch up with faster-moving competitors.

EV production plans are expanding globally

By 2027, Toyota reportedly intends to have as many as 15 electric models available for sale, including offerings under the Lexus brand.

It also aims to scale up annual EV production to approximately one million units. For comparison, this would represent an increase of about seven times the number of EVs the company produced in 2024 - a substantial leap, should it be achieved.

At present, Toyota manufactures electric vehicles solely in Japan and China. However, media sources report that production will expand to the United States, Thailand, and Argentina as additional EV models are introduced.

One of the first among these will be an electric version of the Hilux, scheduled to be assembled in Thailand beginning in October. Production of this model will also take place in Argentina.

Toyota faces intensifying competition

Toyota's sense of urgency is understandable, given the strong competition posed by automakers that have already established significant momentum in the EV sector. In comparison to Tesla, BYD, Volkswagen, Toyota's electric output has remained relatively limited in 2024.

An important addition to Toyota's future EV line-up is the new C-HR+ EV, revealed approximately one month ago.

Positioned below the larger bZ4X within the brand's portfolio, this model will be offered with two battery options: 57.7 kWh and 77 kWh.

Production is set to commence at Toyota's Takaoka plant in Japan this September, 2025. The model will be distributed across Europe and will also be made available in the United States and Canada from 2026.

Additionally, Toyota plans to manufacture a three-row electric vehicle at its facilities in Kentucky and Indiana starting in 2026.

This model is expected to compete with the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9. Toyota is also maintaining its EV partnership with Subaru. The next product resulting from this collaboration is scheduled to enter production in Japan in February.