Toyota is reportedly exploring the possibility of entering the electric pickup market in the United States, with the Japanese automaker currently benchmarking competitors such as the Tesla Cybertruck and Ford F-150 Lightning, indicating potential plans for development.
In October, Toyota unveiled an electric truck concept roughly the size of the Ford Maverick at the Japan Mobility Show, hinting at its interest in the electric pickup segment. The company has allegedly been clandestinely developing its midsize Electric PickUp (EPU) for the past three years.
See also: Toyota Teases Three-Row Battery Electric SUV for US Market
The EPU concept, measuring 200 inches in length, 75 inches in width, and 67 inches in height, mirrors the dimensions of Ford’s Maverick, emphasizing a lower stance for enhanced handling. Featuring an extended 4.5-foot bed that can stretch to 6 feet and a foldable rear cabin wall, the electric truck offers up to 8 feet of cargo space.
Distinct from Toyota’s existing Tacoma model, the EPU concept draws design inspiration from vehicles like the Ram 1500 REV, featuring a broad and assertive front end. Notably, the concept incorporates a passthrough beneath the center console to accommodate longer items, reminiscent of features seen in Ram’s EV concept.
See also: Toyota to Invest $1.3 Billion in Kentucky Facility for Electric Vehicle Development
According to sources within Toyota’s product development team cited by Motorolix, the automaker is evaluating larger electric pickups, including the Tesla Cybertruck, Ford F-150 Lightning, and GMC Hummer EV, at its US campuses across various departments.
Presently, Toyota’s electric vehicle lineup in the US comprises the bZ4X electric SUV, priced starting at $43,070 (excluding a $1,350 DPH fee) with a range of up to 252 miles. Additionally, Toyota has disclosed plans to manufacture its first three-row electric SUV in the US, announcing a $1.3 billion investment to upgrade its Kentucky plant for EV production earlier this week.
