Toyota Group Finally
Delays Electric Vehicle Production Launch for Lexus LF-ZC EV
Toyota’s Lexus brand is postponing the launch of its next-generation electric vehicle, the LF-ZC EV, initially slated for production in 2026. According to reports, Lexus is now considering a delay until mid-2027 and plans to reduce the initial production volume. This shift comes as the global electric vehicle market shows signs of slowing growth, prompting Toyota to allocate more time for further development of related technologies.
Initially, Toyota had ambitious goals for EV production, aiming to sell 500,000 electric vehicles by 2030, with 1.7 million of those being next-generation models. The company had also set a target of 1.5 million electric vehicle sales by 2026. However, reports emerged in August indicating a revision of these goals. Toyota now plans to scale back its 2026 EV production target from 1.5 million to 1 million units, communicating this change to its parts suppliers.
North American Production Plans Adjusted – A First for Japanese Automakers
In addition to scaling back its global production, Toyota is also revising its North American EV production strategy. The automaker has postponed its plans to begin manufacturing electric vehicles in the U.S. by one year, now targeting a 2026 start for production. Toyota had initially planned to start producing electric SUVs at its Georgetown, Kentucky, assembly plant in 2025. This plant opened in February with a $1.3 billion investment and is Toyota’s first dedicated EV facility in North America.
This adjustment marks a significant shift, as it is the first time a Japanese automaker has changed its North American production plans, as reported by Nikkei. The delay reflects Toyota’s cautious approach amid slowing EV demand.
Lexus LF-ZC EV Now Slated for Mid-2027 Launch
The Lexus LF-ZC EV, a coupe-style electric vehicle, was scheduled to begin production at Toyota’s Tahara Plant in late 2026 but is now expected to be delayed until mid-2027. The LF-ZC EV will feature cutting-edge technology, including a high-performance battery and Gigacast technology, which uses aluminum casting to form large parts as integrated units.
The LF-ZC EV is expected to offer an impressive driving range of up to 1,000 km (621 miles), roughly double that of previous models. It will also feature rapid charging capabilities, with a 20-minute charge time. If successful, this next-generation battery could position the LF-ZC as a significant player in the electric vehicle market, offering a substantial range advantage over competitors like Tesla’s Model 3, which has a long-range version with less than 700 km (435 miles) range.
Lexus LF-ZC EV: Embodying Electrification with Low Center of Gravity and Spacious Design
The LF-ZC EV model symbolizes Lexus’ electrification, featuring a low-center design and wide interior space. It boasts excellent aerodynamic performance and design with a Cd of less than 0.2, taking advantage of the unique characteristics of electric vehicles that do not require an engine room. In the case of the front of the LF-ZC EV, the ‘spindle body,’ which is currently being promoted as Lexus’ next-generation design language, is prominently emphasized, and its sharp shape gives a futuristic feel.
In terms of the interior, the extremely low-positioned front seats not only enhance the sense of immersion in driving but also provide an overwhelming sense of openness with the application of a large windscreen. In addition, a yoke-type steering wheel and a large, protruding touchscreen that fills one side of the dashboard are installed. Of course, there will be significant changes in the mass-produced version, but it is expected to differ from previous Lexus models.
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