Toyota Showcased Its Latest Electrics and Technologies at the 2023 Kenshiki Forum
Toyota shared its latest electric concepts, technologies and innovations at the 2023 Kenshiki Forum. Kenshiki, which means "understanding the inner face" in Japanese, was held for the fifth time and Toyota continued to convey its innovative vision.
Toyota held the world premiere of the Urban SUV concept, the production version of which will be introduced in 2024. Same zamAlong with the Sport Crossover, which will hit the roads in 2025, Toyota FT-3e and Toyota FT-Se concepts made their European premiere. New PROACE, PROACE CITY and PROACE MAX models from the Toyota Professional product family were also shown. Additionally, the Hilux range has been further expanded with the new Hilux Hybrid 48V shown at the Kenshiki Forum.
Announcing its latest electrification targets, Toyota's current sales rate of electric vehicles, including hybrids, in Europe is 71 percent, and this figure is expected to increase to 2024 percent with the increase in the number of new electric vehicles in 75.
By 2026, Toyota will offer approximately 15 different zero-emission vehicles, from passenger cars to light commercial vehicles. 6 of these vehicles will be built on a specially developed electric vehicle platform. However, during this period, it is expected that 20 percent of Toyota's annual sales in Europe will be fully electric, and more than 250 thousand fully electric vehicles will be sold annually.
Toyota will offer 2026 electric models by 6
Toyota's 'Mobility for All' strategy and its commitment to achieve full carbon neutrality in Europe by 2040 and globally by 2050 guide the company's approach to new product development. At the Kenshiki Forum, Toyota announced many important details about future products and technologies that will take the brand to zero emissions in Europe. Many new technologies were demonstrated, as well as the goal of introducing 2026 fully electric models with platforms made specifically for electric vehicles by 6. The newly introduced Urban SUV and Sport Crossover concepts, the Compact SUV concept introduced last year, and the bZ4X constitute 6 of the brand's 4 fully electric models. In addition, statements were made about the development of new generation battery technologies that will be offered in vehicles after 2026.
Toyota continues to offer a multi-track approach on the path to carbon neutrality with different power units in accordance with customer needs, market conditions and local infrastructure in different countries and regions of the world globally. This approach includes hybrid, plug-in hybrid, fully electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.
However, the new generation technologies that Toyota is developing for after 2026 will change the way vehicles are developed, produced and used. With the goal of "Mobility for All", zero-emission mobility will be made accessible.
Taking a 360-degree approach to carbon neutrality, Toyota will make all its production facilities carbon neutral in 2030. Within the scope of the announced electrification targets, Toyota will sell only zero-emission vehicles in the European Union, the United Kingdom and EFTA countries in 2035. In addition, aiming to zero emissions in the logistics process, Toyota has started to carry out its logistics with hydrogen fuel cell vehicles in Belgium and surrounding countries in Europe. By 2040, all logistics operations, including purchased products and services, are planned to be carbon neutral.
New generation batteries coming in 2026
Pioneering electrification with new generation batteries to be offered starting from 2026, Toyota will introduce a performance version battery that is aimed to offer twice the driving range and 4% lower cost compared to the current bZ20X. Brand, same zamIt will also start using a low-cost battery aimed at popularizing electric power.
It will have a new shape, bipolar structure and use lower-cost lithium iron phosphate (LFP) as the main material. This is aimed to increase range by 4 percent and reduce cost by 20 percent compared to the bZ40X. The third new generation battery will focus on high performance using bipolar technologies and high nickel cathode. Low costs and a longer driving range are expected with this technology. Toyota aims to commercialize solid-state batteries in 2027-2028. Same zamIt is aimed to achieve from 10 percent to 80 percent capacity from the very beginning with a charging time of only 10 minutes.
New electric SUV for Europe: Urban SUV Concept
At Kenshiki, Toyota introduced the new Urban SUV Concept as part of its future electric vehicle strategy for Europe. Giving clues from the production version of the new electric vehicle, which is planned to be introduced in 2024, the Urban SUV draws attention with its bold design and innovative approach.
Urban SUV will be the most compact and most accessible model of Toyota's 2026 fully electric product range with an architecture developed specifically for electric vehicles in Europe until 6. This vehicle will be positioned in the B-SUV segment, which is predicted to be one of the largest electric vehicle markets in Europe.
Toyota Urban SUV Concept has a unique SUV style with its muscular body and high driving position. Usable space has been maximized with a flexible interior that can be easily adapted to prioritize passenger or cargo space when required. This vehicle can be preferred with four-wheel drive or front-wheel drive. The production version of the Toyota Urban SUV will be offered with two different battery sizes according to customers' needs. The Urban SUV has a length of 4,300 mm, a width of 1,820 mm and a height of 1,620 mm. Toyota will announce more details about the production model in 2024.
With the contribution of this new electric model, Toyota will offer only electric vehicles in Europe in 2035 and will be completely carbon neutral in 2040.
Toyota's interpretation of the sporty SUV: Toyota Sport Crossover Concept
The Sport Crossover Concept, one of the vehicles exhibited by Toyota in Kenshiki, will be produced in 2025 and join the product range. The concept, which will become a design icon within the brand's electric vehicle product range, draws attention with its stylish aerodynamic silhouette and distinctive lines.
Sport Crossover, which stands out as an attractive alternative to SUVs for customers who will use an electric car for the first time, offers high comfort with a large living space and luggage volume.
Representing the new generation of electrics: FT-3e
Toyota introduced the FT-3e SUV concept for the first time in Europe at the Kenshiki Forum in Brussels, revealing the designs and technologies it will offer in new generation electric vehicles. The FT-3e is built on a versatile next-generation electric vehicle architecture, including performance-oriented sports cars and luxury sedans. This next-generation electric vehicle has been designed to achieve the lowest possible weight and optimized aerodynamics for greater efficiency and range.
FT-3e stands out as a concept that goes beyond providing carbon-neutral mobility and connects with society, incorporating a wide range of technologies that serve as a medium for data/energy transfer to the vehicle itself or its surroundings. In the FT-3e, which combines fluent design with aesthetics, digital screens positioned on the door reflect information such as battery charge status, interior temperature and air quality to users from outside the vehicle. The FT-3e concept was designed with a length of 4,860 mm, a width of 1,955 mm and a height of 1,595 mm.
Electric sports car vision: FT-Se
Toyota showed off its vision for the electric FT-Se sports car at the Kenshiki Forum. Developed with the expertise of TOYOTA GAZOO Racing, which competes to develop better cars in different championships in motorsports, the FT-Se concept represents the future of zero-emission high-performance sports cars.
Reflecting the evolved version of the relationship between driver and vehicle, FT-Se takes its name from the abbreviation 'Future Toyota Sports electric', representing the Electric Toyota Sports Cars of the Future. The two-seat sports car combines impressive characteristics with new generation battery technology. The FT-Se sports car concept, which has a flowing silhouette with a length of 4,380 mm, stands out with its aerodynamic lines, unique design details and rear spoiler. Designed with compact dimensions like a classic sports car with a height of 1,220 mm, the concept has an aggressive appearance with a width of 1,895 mm.
The new generation cabin of the FT-Se concept provides a better view with its low-positioned instrument panel and brings a more impressive driving experience with intuitive controls. Designed for a completely exciting ride, the new generation batteries in the FT-Se concept contribute to pushing the limits of performance thanks to their high energy density and low center of gravity. As a high-performance electric vehicle, FT-Se stands out with its high handling, cornering ability and braking abilities. While FT-Se's constantly evolving software updates adapt to the driver's lifestyle, Toyota zamHe believes that the mobility of the future will go beyond being a physical means of transportation and the vehicle will become a lifestyle partner.
While Toyota grows in the light commercial sector, its sales in Türkiye rank among the top 5 in Europe.
Toyota also showed its renewed Toyota Professional product range at the Kenshiki Forum. Toyota Professional's expanded and renewed product range combines efficient performance, durability and high load carrying capacity with stylish designs.
Toyota's increasingly stronger light commercial vehicles and service quality enable it to gain a more assertive position in its segment in Europe. Having sold 2022 thousand light commercial vehicles in Europe in 119, Toyota has already managed to break a new record with sales of over 140 thousand units so far. Planning to grow in the light commercial segment, Toyota aims to exceed 2025 thousand units in 180 and become one of the top 7 brands with a 6 percent market share.
In addition, Turkey also had an important place in Toyota's light commercial vehicles. In the first 10 months, 9 thousand 612 Toyota light commercial vehicles were sold in Turkey, and with these units, Toyota Turkey ranked in the top 5 in European Toyota Professional sales.
Toyota Professional product range has become more assertive
PROACE and PROACE CITY, which draw attention with a completely new front design, have been made more eye-catching. While a sophisticated and distinctive appearance is created by not having a grille between the headlights, the trapezoidal lower front grille is similar to other models in Toyota's product range. In addition to LED headlights, new wheel options increase the elegance of the PROACE product family. The new look is also continued in the cabin. New digital instrument panels and a 10-inch touch screen, new leather steering wheel take comfort and appearance even further.
New PROACE is the same zamIt will also be offered fully electric at the moment. The vehicle, which has a 75 kWh battery, has a practical range of up to 350 km on a single charge. Both electric PROACE with 136 HP (100 kW) are the same zamIt can also be preferred with a smaller 50 kWh battery.
Toyota commercial product range expands with Toyota PROACE MAX
Toyota also introduced the all-new Toyota PROACE MAX in Brussels. It combines high load carrying ability and class-leading capacity with efficient driving and an eye-catching design.
PROACE MAX, Toyota's first full-size commercial vehicle in Europe, joins the extensive PROACE family of vehicles, along with the updated PROACE and PROACE CITY, as part of the comprehensive Toyota Professional commercial vehicle product portfolio.
Introduced with electric and diesel engine options, PROACE MAX zamIt can be preferred with six different sizes and two different axle spacing sizes. Thus, it will offer the ideal solution for every customer. The high-performance electric PROACE MAX can tackle even the toughest jobs with its 270 HP (200 kW) and 410 Nm torque values. The fully electric PROACE MAX offers the ideal range for practical daily operations with a driving range of up to 420 km.
When the high-performance 110 kWh battery needs more energy, it can be charged to 150 percent in as little as 55 minutes with a fast charging system that can go up to 80 kW to minimize downtime on long journeys.
In addition to the electric model, Toyota PROACE MAX can also be preferred with an efficient and low-emission option with power between 120-180 HP. Both electric and diesel versions will be offered with front-wheel drive, accounting for the vast majority of sales in the large-size commercial van sector.
Designed to have a comfortable living space, Toyota PROACE MAX has a 7-inch color digital display screen as well as a high-resolution 10-inch touch screen. A practical central cup holder, useful front panel storage areas and stylish chrome decorations also attract attention in the cabin.
Land Cruiser Prado will be in Turkey in 2024
Land Cruiser Prado, which has become a symbol of power and durability for more than 70 years, was among the innovations exhibited at Kenshiki. The new model combines the legendary Land Cruiser DNA with new technologies, bringing much higher performance in urban and off-road driving as well as in daily use. Toyota will launch the new Land Cruiser Prado model in Turkey in the second half of 2024. In addition, a version with Hybrid 2025V technology will be introduced to users in 48.
The New Land Cruiser Prado, which will initially be offered with a 2.8-liter turbo diesel engine, has 204 HP power and is paired with an eight-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission. The new model, which has the classic Land Cruiser silhouette in its exterior design, draws attention with its strong horizontal lines. Land Cruiser Prado has a length of 4,920 mm, a width of 1,980 mm and a height of 1,870 mm.
Hybrid version of the legendary Hilux: Hilux Hybrid 48V
Toyota unveiled the Hilux Hybrid 2023V version of its legendary pick-up model, which stepped into the world of electrification at the 48 Kenshiki Forum. Equipped with a 48V hybrid system, Hilux Hybrid 48V offers more efficiency, better driving performance and more comfort in urban and off-road conditions.
Hilux, which has become an automotive legend by gaining an instant reputation for quality, durability and reliability since its introduction in 1968, manages to carry this claim forward in each generation. By adding the hybrid 48V system to the Hilux model, Toyota is strengthening its inclusive and multi-technology approach towards its carbon neutral target.
With Hilux's unique appearance and offered only in the Double Cabin version, the Hilux Hybrid 48V underlines the strong stance of the vehicle with its muscular lines, striking three-dimensional front grille and boldly styled front bumper. In addition, it offers a comfortable and spacious living space in the cabin, with a style that can challenge the world's toughest conditions.
Toyota Hilux's 2.8-litre diesel engine has become even more efficient with the addition of the hybrid 48V system. In Hilux's hybrid 48V system, the engine drives the compact engine generator using a belt system and charges the new 48V lithium battery positioned under the rear seats. 48V battery, same zamIt also feeds the vehicle's 12V system via a new DC/DC converter.
As with Toyota's full hybrid electric systems, the new battery is charged during deceleration and uses braking energy efficiently. This system also provides additional braking performance. After the battery is charged, it sends up to 16 HP of power and 65 Nm of torque to the engine via the engine generator, increasing acceleration, power and efficiency. The powerful 2.8 liter diesel engine combined with the engine generator produces 204 HP power and 500 Nm torque.
The new Hilux Hybrid 48V combines responsive acceleration, improved braking performance and higher fuel efficiency with a smoother ride on the road or in difficult terrain. In the city, the power provided by the hybrid 48V system provides better throttle response and linear acceleration, while regenerative braking creates a more effective and natural deceleration feeling and brings higher comfort.
Third generation fuel cell technology coming in 2026
Toyota continues to develop solutions that best meet the needs of countries and regions with different technologies. It also continues its work on hydrogen fuel cell technology, which enables use in different areas other than automotive and is of great importance on the path to zero emissions. Finally, Toyota, which adapted the hydrogen fuel cell to the legendary Hilux model, also exhibited the Hilux Fuel Cell Prototype model at the 2023 Kenshiki Forum.
Continuing to make improvements on hydrogen fuel cell passenger cars and commercial vehicles, Toyota is preparing to introduce the third generation fuel cell system in 2026. It will be a turning point in terms of commercialization and widespread use of hydrogen fuel cell technology. With the annual production target of 100 thousand units, the range will increase by 20 percent and costs will decrease by around 37 percent with this technology. However, with the collaborations to be made, annual production will increase to 2030 thousand units in 200 and costs are planned to decrease by 50 percent.
Toyota has also focused on heavy-duty transportation to support the development of hydrogen infrastructure. One of the latest studies carried out in this context is that in the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics guest program, GCK company will convert its buses to zero-emission hydrogen using Toyota's fuel cell systems.
In addition, the 'Hydrogen Factory' was established to produce worldwide.
The European Hydrogen Factory will bring together development, assembly, sales and marketing and establish a strong link with the Global Hydrogen Factory to support carbon neutrality by 2040.
Toyota to launch mobility products at the 2024 Paris Olympics
Toyota, which has transformed into a mobility company with the aim of offering equal freedom of movement to everyone, will exhibit the most innovative form of inclusive and sustainable mobility at Paris 2024. Toyota, which shared the mobility solutions it will include in the Olympics at the 2023 Kenshiki Forum, will use many zero-emission and low-emission products within the scope of "Mobility for All" in Paris.
Toyota, which will use more than 2 full hybrid, plug-in hybrid, full electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, will make a great contribution to reducing carbon emissions by 650 percent compared to the previous games of Paris 2024. Among the vehicles that Toyota will use in Paris will be the fully electric Toyota bZ50X, Proace and Proace Verso and plug-in hybrid RAV4, full hybrid Toyota Corolla TS, Yaris Cross, and Highlander and hydrogen fuel cell Toyota Mirai.
In addition to its passenger car fleet, Toyota will also offer over 700 individual mobility solutions in Paris. C + walk with 250 seatsS and standing C + walkT It will include mobility products such as wheelchair e-tractors, 250 APM and 150 wheelchair accessible Toyota Proace.