Germany’s car-check watchdog has crunched the reliability numbers and once again, Tesla finds itself parked at the very bottom of the heap. The 2026 TÜV-Report, covering annual roadworthiness inspections of approximately 9.5 million vehicles between July 2024 and June 2025, found that Tesla EVs occupied the two bottom spots in the league table.

The Model 3, which was the worst-ranked car for the two previous years was found to have a defect rate of 13.1 percent, meaning one in every 7.6 cars in the two-to-three-year-old ages group failed the Hauptuntersuchung safety check.

Why Is The Model Y So Troubled?

But the Model Y was even worse. It had a defect rate of 17.3 percent, versus 3.5 percent for a Mini Cooper SE, making it the worst TÜV has seen in this age group in a decade. The biggest defect culprits were the axle assembly, suspension, brakes and lighting.

Related: Tesla Is Now The World’s Most Avoided EV Brand And It’s Probably Musk’s Fault

Pulling back to look at the bigger picture covering cars of all ages reveals that 21.5 percent, or one in five cars failed the inspection due to a “significant” or “dangerous” defect, an increase of 0.9 percent on last year, ADAC reported. And the proportion with minor defects rose 0.8 percent to 12.3 percent.

Other reliability villains include the BMW 5-series and 6-series in both the 4-5-year-old and 8-9-year-old age groups, the Dacia Duster in the 6-7 and 10-11 age groups and the Renault Clio among 12-13-year-old cars.

Electric Cars Defect Rate, 2-3 Years Old

Pop the Champagne for VW

But with every list of losers there has to be a list of winners, and for cars that have passed their fourth birthday, this one is headed by Volkswagen.

The VW Golf wagon and T-Roc scored well in the 4-7-year-old categories and the automaker’s Touareg was top of the oldies. The Mazda CX-3 and Mercedes B-Class were also commended.

Looking at the 2-3-year-old group, Fiat’s 500e toped the small car category, proving to Tesla that EVs can be reliable, the Mazda 2 and BMW 1-series were the top-rated small car and compact, and the C-class took the mid-range award (if you’re reading from the US, those classifications will look kinda messed up).

The T-Roc popped up again to take best SUV, and the B-class bagged most reliable nearly-new minivan.

Rate of Serious Inspection Defects

One big change in this year’s study is the introduction of an award for long-term quality, handed out to brands whose vehicles, aged 10+ exhibit the lowest average defect rate for safety-related faults and stand for quality, durability, and good service.

Mercedes took gold with an 18.5 percent defect rate – almost matching that of a 2-3-year-old Model Y – Audi was second with 19.2 percent and Toyota snuck onto the podium’s last step with a 22 percent defect rate.

Winners By Segment, 2-3 Years Old

Winners In Other Age Groups

Toyota has broadened the ever-expanding Land Cruiser family with the smaller, more accessible FJ. The catch? It’s only available in select Asian markets. But fear not, as according to a new report, this might just be the start.

A new SUV and pickup duo is said to be in the works, potentially marking a turning point for the storied Land Cruiser name.

More: Toyota’s Baby Land Cruiser FJ Looks Retro Enough To Break Your Heart

All Land Cruiser models since 1951 have been built on rugged ladder-frame foundations, defined by their focus on durability, reliability, and off-road prowess.

A Softer Side of Land Cruiser

Now, according to unnamed inside sources cited by Japan’s Best Car, an upcoming pair of Land Cruiser SUV and pickup, described by those same insiders as “the beginning of a new chapter”, are set to break from that long-held tradition.

Both are said to adopt a unibody structure, favoring on-road comfort and daily drivability over the usual body-on-frame toughness.

While these reports should be taken with a measure of caution, they immediately call to mind two familiar concepts: the Toyota EPU pickup truck and the larger, three-row Land Cruiser Se SUV, both shown at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show.

According to Best Car, the forthcoming pickup will share styling cues with the EPU, which measured 199.6 inches (5,070 mm) in length and featured an extendable rear bed.

That setup would clearly set it apart from the new generation Hilux, Tacoma, Tundra, and Land Cruiser 70 Series trucks, all of which continue to rely on traditional body-on-frame construction.

Electric Roots, Flexible Future

Both of the 2023 concepts were fully electric, pairing large battery packs with all-wheel drive systems. Production versions could evolve from Toyota’s e-TNGA platform or shift to a different unibody layout that supports hybrid powertrains. That approach would align with Toyota’s broader “multi-pathway” philosophy, as demonstrated by the new Corolla concept.

More: Forget The Slate, Toyota Wants To Make A Cheap Small Truck For America

The report indicates that the new pickup could debut as early as 2027. Earlier coverage suggests the production version of the Land Cruiser Se SUV may arrive a year sooner, in 2026, to coincide with the 75th anniversary of the nameplate.

Will They Come to the US?

What is more interesting, but hardly surprising, is that the aforementioned pickup and SUV could be sold in North America. Current information points to the upcoming electric Land Cruiser being built in the US, which makes sense given ongoing tariff challenges and Toyota’s major push into local manufacturing, recently underscored by a $10 billion investment commitment.

Adding to this, Toyota officials have admitted they are considering an affordable pickup for the US market, a role that could be fulfilled by these new two new Land Cruiser models.

An electrified Land Cruiser pickup could go head-to-head with Ford’s forthcoming Ranger-sized EV or the eventual successor to the compact Maverick. Either way, it’s clear Toyota is positioning itself for a broader, more flexible future. We’ll be watching closely as these plans take shape.

Source: Best Car

Toyota has announced plans to invest an additional $10 billion in the United States over the next five years. The company didn’t say where the money is going or what it will fund, but it will bring their total U.S. investment to nearly $60 billion.

While the automaker was coy on specifics, the move comes amid tariffs and pressure from the Trump administration to build more vehicles in the United States.

Just last month, the White House said “Toyota plans to export its U.S.-made vehicles to Japan and open its distribution platform in Japan to U.S. automakers.”

The country also decided to allow sales of American-made vehicles and “U.S. safety-certified vehicles” without additional testing.

An American Battery Plant

Putting politics aside, Toyota Battery Manufacturing North Carolina has officially opened and begun production. Located in Liberty, the $13.9 billion plant is the company’s eleventh manufacturing facility in America and Toyota’s only battery plant outside of Japan.

It’s expected to generate up to 5,100 jobs and be capable of producing 30 GWh of battery capacity annually. While the opening comes shortly after the clean vehicle tax credit was eliminated, Toyota noted the plant has 14 battery production lines that support not only electric vehicles, but also hybrids and plug-in hybrids.

Speaking of which, batteries made at the plant will be used in the Camry Hybrid, Corolla Cross Hybrid, and RAV4 Hybrid. It will also make batteries for the company’s upcoming three-row EV.

While production is just getting started, Toyota plans to open additional assembly lines by 2030. The company also noted that once construction is complete, the facility won’t just be a workplace as it will also house a pharmacy, a medical clinic, a fitness center, and on-site childcare.

Toyota Motor North America CEO Tetsuo Ogawa remarked, “Today’s launch of Toyota’s first U.S. battery plant and additional U.S. investment up to $10 billion marks a pivotal moment in our company’s history. Toyota is a pioneer in electrified vehicles, and the company’s significant manufacturing investment in the U.S. and North Carolina further solidifies our commitment to team members, customers, dealers, communities, and suppliers.”

For the second time this year, Toyota has delayed its plan to build a new factory dedicated to EV batteries in Japan’s Fukuoka Prefecture. The decision, while not unexpected, highlights the company’s cautious approach amid fluctuating global demand for electric vehicles.

Sales of Toyota’s EVs have slowed, yet the automaker maintains that the plant will still move forward in due course.

Read: Toyota’s Lineup Overhaul Could Include A Surprise Sedan And Electric Highlander

Toyota paid roughly 6 billion yen, about $39 million, for the site located in an industrial zone under development in northeastern Fukuoka Prefecture. As part of the purchase, the company agreed to begin construction within three years.

Earnings Results Shift The Timeline

Despite this, the car manufacturer announced in March that it would postpone work at the site due to fall demand for its EVs. The governor of Fukuoka, as well as Toyota President Koji Sato, have since confirmed work on the site has been postponed for a second time.

Production had initially been slated to start in 2028, though an updated timeline has yet to be provided, according to Nikkei Asia.

Word of the delay coincided with Toyota’s latest earnings report. It cut its global EV sales expectations by 10 percent from a previous forecast of 277,000 units for the fiscal year ending March 2026.

Even so, Toyota hasn’t ruled out adjusting its long-term targets, including its aim to reach 1.5 million global EV sales in 2026, a figure that could yet evolve as market conditions change.

Toyota Is Still Betting On EVs

Notably, Toyota is still investing heavily in new electric vehicles and factories. It continues to work towards opening a new factory in Shanghai, China, around 2027, to produce EVs for Lexus. This facility will likely handle the production of the LF-ZC and LF-ZL that were introduced a couple of years ago as concepts.

Toyota’s EV sales through the first nine months of the year were actually up 20.6 percent to 117,031 units, but even so, that number has still fallen short of expectations.

Until the company is confident that sales will rise significantly, it doesn’t make sense to rush and build new plants only for them to sit idle or operate at partial capacity.

Sources: Nikkei Asia

Toyota has just unveiled the new generation of the Hilux, and while the new model has barely touched showroom floors, it’s already been reimagined to showcase just how far owners can take customization.

More: New Toyota Hilux Debuts Sumo-Inspired Looks And EV Option

During the truck’s official launch in Thailand, the brand presented a lineup of rugged, modified builds, blending genuine factory accessories with a few aftermarket touches to hint at the model’s versatility.

GR Flavor in Full Effect

The display featured no fewer than six distinct takes on the pickup, each aimed at a different type of driver. One stood out for its GR Parts catalogue treatment, equipped with a black grille, red skid plate, glossy black fender extensions, branded side steps, and black wheels wrapped in chunky off-road tires.

Accessories from Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division didn’t stop there. The brand also showcased roof and bed racks, plus the signature red mudflaps familiar to GR-badged models.

A GR Sport version of the new Hilux is expected to follow, with a tougher stance, refined performance, and chassis upgrades tailored to those seeking a sharper drive.

Interestingly, the GR Parts build wasn’t the star of the show. That honor went to an off-road-focused version developed by Australian tuner ARB, which looked ready to tackle almost anything.

It sat higher thanks to a lift kit and wore a rugged front bumper with clearance cutouts, auxiliary LEDs, a roof rack, a side awning, and a bed rack designed for specialized gear.

Overlanding Camper

Still, what caught our eye was an overlanding camper conversion of the Hilux with a tent mounted on a custom bed rack. The adventure-packed model came with a lifted suspension, all/terrain tires, beadlock wheels, rock sliders, a skid plate with integrated lights, an LED bar on the roof, and an aerodynamic snorkel.

More: Toyota Hilux Transforms Into A 6×6 Military Truck Ready For Battle

Another rugged example took a different visual route, wearing a matte gray-and-red color scheme with a snorkel, protective hardware, raised suspension, and carbon-plated tailpipe. Mudflaps and new wheels rounded out its stance.

Unlike the European and Australian Hilux, which come exclusively in double-cab form, the Thai-market truck is available in Standard Cab and Smart Cab configurations.

The Standard Cab provided the base for a particularly practical build featuring a lift kit, black wheels, white-and-black graphics, extended mirrors, and a metal cage that expanded the load capacity of the open cargo area.

More: Toyota Hilux Champ Shows Off Its Customization Potential

Rounding out the lineup was a sportier, road-focused Hilux finished in yellow with a carbon-textured wrap for the hood and tailgate. It sat lower on new wheels, backed by uprated brakes, though the heart remained unchanged, a 2.8-liter turbodiesel producing 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS).

Depending on the market, the new Hilux range will also include mild-hybrid diesel, petrol, and fully electric options, underscoring its global versatility.

Available Accessories

Toyota Thailand’s official website lists a comprehensive range of add-ons for the new Hilux. Among them are additional plastic cladding for the doors, larger wheel arch extensions, door handle covers, a rear spoiler, stainless steel exhaust outlets, and bed liners.

Owners can also choose underbody protection and metal-look garnish for the taillights, tailgate, hood, and bumper intakes. Inside, options include heavy-duty floor mats, aluminum scuff plates, and clever storage solutions.

Thailand has a prominent tuning culture, which is why most automakers advertise the customization capabilities of their trucks. Judging from the aforementioned builds and the popularity of the Hilux, we expect to see a lot of interesting conversions in the future.

While the Ford F-150 dominates North America, the Toyota Hilux continues to reign just about everywhere else. Now entering its ninth generation, Toyota’s workhorse returns with sharper styling, a thoroughly redesigned cabin, reinforced ladder-frame underpinnings, and, for the first time, a fully electric powertrain.

More: Toyota’s Baby Land Cruiser FJ Looks Retro Enough To Break Your Heart

The new design theme, dubbed “Cyber Sumo,” takes a different path from the hammerhead styling found in other recent Toyota models. Up front, slimmer LED headlights flank a body-colored honeycomb grille, while angular bumper intakes and a solid skid plate add a functional, squared-off presence.

The fully electric version wears a unique front bumper with a closed grille and redesigned intakes, a subtle cue to its zero-emission identity.

The profile remains familiar because the greenhouse, pillars, and doors carry over from the outgoing model that’s been around since 2015. Even so, re-sculpted front and rear fenders with boxy wheel arches, paired with fresh wheel designs, give it a tougher stance.

At the rear, the Hilux shows more definition than before, with sharper LED taillights and a modernized bumper that now incorporates practical side steps similar to those on the Ford Ranger.

Its footprint stays consistent with its predecessor at 5,320 mm in length and a 3,085 mm wheelbase. Toyota has chosen to offer only the dual-cab version in Europe and Australia, while markets such as Thailand retain the Single Cab and Smart Cab configurations.

How Has The Interior Changed?

The cabin has been thoroughly overhauled, blending modern tech with the Hilux’s traditionally utilitarian nature. A boxy dashboard frames a free-standing 12.3-inch infotainment screen (8-inch in the base Thai-spec model) and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster (7-inch in lower trims). Importantly, physical controls remain for core functions such as climate and audio, preserving tactile ease of use.

The chunky steering wheel with buttons is borrowed from the Land Cruiser, while the compact gear knob and drive mode selector sit on the center console. Dual storage compartments line the passenger side, and dashboard-mounted cupholders complete the layout.

Toyota has also expanded the Hilux’s safety credentials with a “significantly extended” suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, bringing it in line with the brand’s passenger car range.

Multiple Powertrain Options

Toyota’s “Multipathway” approach to propulsion continues here, and the new Hilux exemplifies it. Depending on the market, buyers can choose from the familiar 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine in regular or mild-hybrid form, as well as a 2.7-liter gasoline option.

The biggest leap, however, is the all-electric version. It uses dual electric motors producing a combined 193 hp (144 kW / 196 PS), powered by a 59.2 kWh battery pack.

Toyota quotes a range of 240 km (149 miles) under the WLTP cycle, or just over 300 km (186 miles) using NEDC standards. It may not rival long-range EVs, but Toyota plans to add a hydrogen fuel-cell variant by 2028.

Payload and towing capacities remain robust: up to 1,000 kg (2,205 lbs) and 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs) respectively for internal combustion models. The Hilux BEV, with its heavier battery setup, carries 715 kg (1,576 lbs) and tows 1,600 kg (3,527 lbs).

Upgraded Underpinnings

Under the skin, the Hilux rides on an upgraded version of the IMV ladder-frame architecture of its predecessor rather than moving to the more modern TNGA-F used by the Tacoma and Land Cruiser. 

Still, it benefits from a new electric power steering, new engine and cabin mounts for reduced vibrations, new front rail extensions for improved crash perfromance, and a revised suspension setup.

The suspension setup combines independent coil springs at the front with a rigid rear axle supported by leaf springs. Toyota Australia says there are two distinct calibrations: one tuned for heavy-load and towing performance, and another focused on everyday ride comfort.

More: Toyota Shrinks Its Hilux Champ Into The Super Short Wheelbase

In terms of off-road credentials, the 4×4 versions use a part-time 4WD system with high and low range ratios, now improved with the standard fitment of a rear locking differential and the available Multi-Terrain Select system.

Pricing and Availability

Production remains centered in Thailand, where the diesel-powered Hilux Travo is already on sale, priced between ฿767,000 ($23,700) and ฿1,366,000 ($42,200). The fully electric model starts at ฿1,491,000 ($46,100), placing it at the top of the lineup.

The new Hilux will reach Europe and Australia in December 2025, followed by broader Asian rollouts in 2026 and a home-market debut in Japan by mid-2026. Detailed specifications and pricing for each region will be announced closer to launch.

Toyota

Toyota’s booth at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show brimmed with futuristic ideas, from spider-like delivery bots to a six-wheeled Lexus minivan. Yet among all the tech-heavy marvels, one creation charmed visitors more than any other: the Kids Mobi, a self-driving, bubble-shaped EV made exclusively for children.

More: Honda Shogo Is A Tiny EV That Brings Joy To Hospitalized Kids

Framed as a “safe and secure AI-powered personal mobility for kids,” the concept blurs the line between toy and vehicle. It has a smooth, pod-like body with enclosed wheels and animated LED “eyes” that mimic expressions.

Even the sensors on the roof are shaped like ears, with the whole thing being reminiscent of an animated character.

The canopy, lifted straight from a sci-fi sketchbook, swings upward to reveal a snug single seat built for children up to 130 cm tall (about 4 feet 3 inches). Once inside, the canopy closes and an AI assistant called the “UX Friend” comes to life, chatting and playing with the young passenger throughout the ride.

While the Kids Mobi obviously relies on autonomous tech for navigation, Toyota says children can still participate in the drive, giving them a sense of control.

“It’s not just adults who want to drive and enjoy some time to themselves,” the company explains. “Kids also want freedom of mobility. And just as adults have cars, kids deserve a trusty sidekick.”

Letting a child ride solo in an autonomous pod may sound like science fiction at best and unsettling at worst, but Toyota argues it could eventually prove safer than a traditional school bus.

For now, the Kids Mobi remains a concept, though it reflects what the automaker calls the “ultimate goal” of its AI x Robotics Data Center. That means the idea will keep evolving long after the show floor closes.

Still, the project represents the “ultimate goal” of the automaker’s AI x Robotics Data Center, so development will continue.

More: Toyota Wants To Teach Your Kids To Drive With Camatte Petta Concept

Until the Kids Mobi is ready to hit the road (or, more likely, the bike lane and sidewalk), visitors of the Japan Mobility Show can check it out up close and snap a photo with it. Toyota will also give each kid an original keychain as a souvenir.

Another Kid-Friendly Concept

Interestingly, the 2025 lineup at the show includes another Toyota concept that could serve as a helpful companion for toddlers.

The Chibibo is a quadruped robot that walks alongside people and vehicles serving as a last-mile delivery solution. A shown in the official renderings, it could help a child carry their backpack, lunchbox, or any other item that would be too heavy for them.

The spider-like design allows the robot to navigate narrow alleyways and climb stairs, taking parcels to places that vehicles can’t. When idle, it crouches down into a resting pose, much like a loyal robotic pet.

Toyota

The refreshed 2026 Toyota bZ offers up to 338 hp (252 kW / 343 PS), which is a massive 124 hp (92 kW / 126 PS) increase over its terribly named predecessor.

That power boost lets the top-spec model range-topping variant to rocket from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 4.9 seconds and travel 278 miles (447 km) on a single charge. To highlight that newfound performance, Toyota is bringing out the bZ Time Attack concept.

Set to debut at the SEMA Show next week, the track-focused model features an aggressive body kit with a prominent front splitter and new side skirts. They’re joined by extended fenders, a sporty rear diffuser, and a massive rear wing.

More: Toyota Slashed Thousands Off New Base bZ, But Raised It For Other Trims

Besides the body kit, the crossover has been lowered 6 inches (152 mm) while its track has been expanded by the same amount. This gives the model an aggressive stance, which is amplified by 19-inch BBS Unlimited wheels that are wrapped in Continental Extreme Contact Sport 02 tires.

Adding to the drama is a custom tri-color paint scheme that blends metallic and pearl hues.

Given the racing ambitions, the interior has been stripped of non-essential equipment. The result is a relatively bare cabin with a chromoly roll cage and OMP HTE-R racing seats. We can also see a new steering wheel and a shifter that has been relocated to the dash.`

Toyota didn’t say much about the powertrain, but confirmed the concept has a dual-motor all-wheel drive system that has been tuned to produce more than 402 hp (300 kW / 408 PS).

Aside from upgraded motors, the concept has a revised suspension that features TEIN coilovers and springs. They’re accompanied by an Alcon braking system that uses Hawk pads.

While some Land Cruiser fans are thrilled that Toyota has added a smaller, more affordable model to the lineup with the FJ, many in America were disappointed to learn the new version won’t be sold locally.

Looking through the photos released by Toyota, we couldn’t quite put a finger on what the Land Cruiser FJ reminded us of, aside from the obvious Hilux Champ it’s based on. Then it clicked, after we came across a GM-built model from China that’s now going global.

Read: Toyota’s Baby Land Cruiser FJ Looks Retro Enough To Break Your Heart

The vehicle in question is sold in China as the Baojun Yep Plus and was developed through the GM–Wuling joint venture. It’s not a focused off-roader like the new FJ, nor is it powered by a traditional combustion engine, but rather by an electric powertrain.

Now, we’re not suggesting the FJ copied the Baojun Yep Plus, but it gives off a similar vibe, and to our eyes, it looks every bit as good, if not better, than Toyota’s baby FJ Cruiser.

From the side, the two share a similar silhouette, though the GM model is noticeably smaller at 157.3 inches (3,996 mm) long, 69.3 inches (1,760 mm) wide, and 68 inches (1,726 mm) tall, with a 100.8-inch (2,560 mm) wheelbase, compared with the Toyota’s 180.1 inches (4,575 mm) in length, 73 inches (1,855 mm) in width, and 77.2 inches (1,960 mm) in height, riding on a 101.6-inch (2,580 mm) wheelbase.

Technically, that makes it a baby version of the baby Land Cruiser FJ.

The Yep Plus has the same boxy proportions as the FJ, though its bumpers are smoother and more rounded since it’s not built for off-roading. It also forgoes the Toyota’s jagged wheel arch extensions, while the positioning of the headlights and taillights appears closely aligned.

That said, the FJ’s taillights sit quite high and jut slightly from the body, while the Baojun’s units are more neatly integrated into the rear fascia.

There’s no doubt that weaving retro cues into a new design, as GM and Wuling have done with the Yep Plus, helps it resonate with a wider audience. Toyota has taken a similar route with the FJ, giving it a retro-modern character that plenty of buyers would likely appreciate. It’s just a shame it won’t reach the United States.

Brazil Gets its own Baojun

In July, GM revealed that it would export the Yep Plus to Brazil, rebadging it as the Chevrolet Spark EUV. It will be sold as standard with a 42 kWh battery pack and a single rear-mounted electric motor with 101 hp and 133 lb-ft (180 Nm) of torque, giving it 249 miles (401 km) of range on the CLTC cycle.

While we’re not convinced it would sell in big numbers if launched in the U.S. as an affordable EV, it could find success with a small, efficient combustion engine paired with a more rugged makeover featuring wider fenders and extra plastic cladding. What do you think?

2025 Chevrolet Spark EUV

2025 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ

It might look like something dreamt up by a designer with a fondness for sci-fi gadgets for teens, but Toyota’s FT-Me concept is more than a flight of fancy.

The pint-sized two-seater EV has taken a tangible step toward production, thanks to a £15 million ($20 million) grant from the UK government that could bring it to European and UK streets before long.

More: Toyota Teased A New Corolla Concept So Radical You’ll Struggle To Recognize It

The investment comes through the UK’s Drive35 program, managed by the non-profit Advanced Propulsion Centre. It will back a Toyota-led consortium including lightweight EV specialists ELM, solar-tech firm Savcor, and the University of Derby.

What’s the Plan?

At its core, the study aims to determine the feasibility of developing a battery electric vehicle designed for Europe’s L6e light quadricycle category, drawing direct inspiration from the FT-Me concept.

Research will take place at Toyota’s Burnaston facility in Derbyshire, while the University of Derby will handle performance testing. The Burnaston plant could even serve as the base for limited local production should the project move forward.

The research will cover the integrated solar roof that was developed by Savcor, enhanced digital connectivity, the extensive use of recycled and sustainable materials, plus the possibility of sharing components with ELM’s last-mile delivery vehicle that was introduced in 2024.

It is safe to assume that some of the concept’s features like the futuristic LEDs will be toned down, although its basic form could be carried over.

The FT-Me was introduced in concept form in March 2025, with clear intentions for production. The sub-2.5 m (98.4 inches) model could compete with quadricycles like the Citroen Ami, Fiat Topolino, Opel Rocks Electric, Renault Mobilize Duo, and Microlino, promising a 90% reduction in carbon footprint compared to urban EVs.

More: Dacia’s Tiny EV Declares War On Europe’s Overpriced Cars

Toyota estimates a range of 100 km (62 miles), that could be further extended by 20-30 km (12-19 miles) if enough sunlight hits the roof-mounted solar panels.

The L6e regulations require a maximum power output of 5 hp (4 kW) and a top speed of 45 km/h (28 mph). On the bright side, light quadricycles can be driven by 14 year-olds in certain European markets.

Dariusz Mikolajczak, Managing Director of Toyota Manufacturing UK, said:

“We are delighted to receive support from the Advanced Propulsion Centre for this important study. The funding allows us to advance our understanding around the feasibility of creating a cutting-edge battery electric vehicle that addresses the growing demand for sustainable urban mobility. The study acknowledges TMUK’s overall project excellence and will further strengthen our members’ capabilities.”

Toyota hasn’t confirmed when the production-ready FT-Me will make its debut. The timeline depends on the results of the ongoing feasibility study, but if progress stays on course, the compact EV could begin appearing on UK roads within the next few years.

Toyota

Toyota has stolen the limelight at the Japan Mobility Show 2025 with a varied selection of premieres across its range, including a new Corolla concept. The sedan previews the next chapter for one of the brand’s best-selling and longest-standing nameplates, with sharp styling and multiple powertrain options.

The concept is part of a new campaign titled “To You, Toyota” and was penned by the company’s European design center in Nice, France (ED²). At first glance, it bears little resemblance to the current 12th-generation of the Corolla.

More: The Lexus LS Has Just Morphed Into A Bizarre Six-Wheeled Van

Instead, it features crisp, modern lines and proportions more in tune with an electric vehicle, hinting at a new design direction for the familiar compact, much like Toyota achieved with the latest generation of the Prius.

A Sharp Exterior Design

The front end introduces a refined take on Toyota’s hammerhead design, with full-width LED headlights merging horizontal and vertical lighting signatures. Gone is the traditional grille, replaced by a narrow lower intake on the bumper and a subtle vent at the base of the windshield.

From the profile, the car presents itself as a sleek four-door sedan that could carry forward the Corolla nameplate. The front fenders appear to host a charging port beside a new vertical accent beneath the mirrors. Other notable features include a descending window line, sculpted side panels, and conventional door handles.

The rear view is defined by a clean, integrated ducktail spoiler extending from the sloping roof. Sharp shoulders lead to full-width taillights with pixel-like illumination, and “Corolla” lettering sits across the flat tailgate. The rear bumper adds some depth with a sculpted finish and centered license plate placement.

More: Century Coupe Leads Toyota’s Fight To Rolls-Royce

The interior is just as a radical rethink as the exterior. The dashboard has a clean design with modestly-sized screens for the digital instrument cluster and the passenger display.

There is also a floating center console with a gear selector is shaped after the vehicle, along with futuristic seats and ambient lighting. Basic controls for the media and the HVAC are grouped on steering wheel and on each side of the instrument cluster.

Toyota didn’t share the specifications of the “reinvented” Corolla but confirmed it will stay true to its multi-pathway approach. This means it will offer a variety of powertrain options including fully electric and hybrid, answering to the needs of buyers in different markets around the world.

Crucially, there won’t be any compromise on space or functionality independently of what lies under the hood.

Despite the clear production intent of the Corolla concept, the automaker didn’t announce a set date for the debut of the new generation. Still, with the current model having been around since 2018 with a facelift in 2022, a successor could arrive in 2026.

More Concepts in the Spotlight

Beyond the main reveal, Toyota also showcased a range of inventive concepts that hint at a playful and inclusive vision of mobility. Among them were a series of brightly colored, pod-like vehicles designed for children, known as Kids Mobi.

The lineup also included spider-like transporters, the Chibibo for goods and Walk Me for personal movement. On the other hand Boost Me is a mobility device tailored for people with disabilities that’s nimble enough for a tennis court.

More: From Robots To EVs, Suzuki’s Tokyo Show Lineup Has It All

Completing the collection was Challenge Me, a rugged, off-road-capable wheelchair, KB Lifter which is a treadmill on wheels, and Cyber Love, a rolling, box-shaped lounge that seems to blur the line between vehicle and living space.

Furthermore, the company presented various light commercial vehicle concepts including a tiny single-seater EV for last-mile delivery (Coms-X), a minimalist cab-over pickup envisioned for developing markets (IMV Origin), an autonomous minivan that could serve as a taxi (Kago-Bo), a similar van version for professional use (Kayoibako).

Last but not least, Toyota showcased a new HiAce concept in both regular and high-roof bodystyles, featuring modern styling cues and fortress-style side windows.

Toyota

Toyota has come under plenty of criticism in recent years for not making the shift to electric powertrains as quickly as some of its competitors. However, the world’s largest car manufacturer continues to invest heavily in EV technologies, doubling down on its commitment to launch new models with all-solid-state batteries in 2027-2028.

Since 2021, Toyota has been working with Japanese mining company Sumitomo Metal Mining on the cathode materials needed for solid-state batteries. These batteries, primarily composed of a cathode, anode, and solid electrolyte, have long been considered the holy grail of electric vehicles.

Smaller, Lighter, Faster

Beyond improving range, solid-state batteries are expected to be smaller, lighter, and charge faster than today’s lithium-ion packs. The technology is also said to deliver higher output and longer life.

Toyota recently signed a new agreement with Sumitomo Metal Mining to accelerate the mass production of these cathode materials, taking another step toward commercializing the technology.

Read: Toyota Partners With Japanese Petroleum Giant To Develop Solid-State Batteries For EVs

Toyota and Sumitomo say that through the use of powder synthesis technology, they have been able to develop a “highly durable cathode material” that can be mass-produced for these batteries. The collaboration builds on Sumitomo’s experience supplying cathode materials for existing EVs, now adapted to the stricter requirements of solid-state production.

It’s not just its work with Sumitomo that will allow Toyota to commercialize solid-state batteries. Since 2013, it has also been working alongside Japanese oil product Idemitsu Kosan on the new technology.

Idemitsu Kosan is developing lithium sulfide for use in batteries and plans to build a large plant capable of producing 1,000 metric tons of the material annually. Mass production is expected to start in 2027.

A previous roadmap published by Toyota indicated that its first generation of solid-state batteries launching in 2027-2028 will allow for 1,000 km (621 miles) worth of range, all while having the ability to charge from 10-80 percent in just 10 minutes.

The second generation is projected to exceed 1,200 kilometers (745 miles), signaling a substantial leap in energy density and efficiency.

In a statement, Toyota and Sumitomo said they are currently focusing on improving the “performance, quality, and safety of cathode materials for all-solid-state batteries, as well as reducing costs for mass production.” They aim to “achieve the world’s first practical use of all-solid state batteries in BEVs.”

Global Race For Solid-State Supremacy

While Toyota hopes to lead the transition, several global automakers are pursuing the same goal. BMW, Honda, Stellantis and Mercedes are investing heavily in solid-state technology, with some already testing prototype vehicles. Recently, MG launched the second-generation MG4 with semi-solid-state batteries that use around five percent liquid electrolyte.

Note: For anyone wondering, the opening image shows a pear-shaped lab flask containing a sample of solid-state battery material. Toyota included the photo in a release about its all-solid-state battery program.

Despite online jokes about the shape, it’s actually a standard scientific container used for drying and storing chemical samples during testing and production. The powder inside is cathode or electrolyte material destined for Toyota’s next-generation solid-state EV batteries.

Since early 2020, American consumers have had to come to terms with a new kind of normal. Products and services are not as plentiful as we’ve grown accustomed to. Covid-19 and the occasional freak weather patterns have wreaked havoc on a number of industries in many ways, especially in terms of shortages. The restaurant industry is struggling to hire viable and reliable employees. Grocery stores are out of products, specifically goods originating from meat-packing plants. And we all know how paper products like toilet paper were hard to come by for many months. Nearly all industries are having some growing pains adapting to the unavoidable changes taking place, including automobile manufacturers.

Madisonians have noticed the dearth of new vehicles for the past several months when they pass by Smart Toyota on Odana Road. What has been a car lot brimming with options for decades has suddenly become a sort of ghost town with only a handful or so of vehicles on the lot.

“It’s a very noticeable difference,” says Smart Toyota’s sales director Justin Jackson. “We normally have 400 or more new vehicles on the lot, but since mid-April 2021 we’ve seen a steady decline in the number of New Toyotas we have on the lot. Now we only have maybe 5 to 10 new vehicles physically at the store.”

Jackson says the pandemic is partially to blame for the shortage because modern vehicles rely on computer chips which became scarce due to manufacturers reallocating them to industries other than automotive. Then, early in 2021 the issue in new vehicle manufacturing were winter storms that crippled Texas-based businesses that are critical in the manufacturing of foam for seats.

“If it’s not one thing it’s another,” says Jackson. “We’ve got the chips, but because of the power issues Texas faced in the Spring of 2021, we didn’t have enough foam padding for the seats, and today, as production ramps up, it’s supply chain and logistical issues.”

It’s Not All Doom and Gloom

Those looking to purchase a new vehicle seem to understand the slow-down in global manufacturing, Jackson says. Instead of getting upset they can’t drive off the lot with a vehicle they think is “good enough,” consumers are now more apt to customize and pre-order a vehicle specifically made to their specifications.

“It’s kind of cool how people have adapted,” says Jackson. “They might not get that prior sense of immediate gratification of new car ownership, but they get to experience something else: personalization.”

Jackson explains the process of pre-ordering has been well-received for a few reasons, one of which is the compassion the consumer feels about simple logistics as they relate to inventory issues in this day and age.

Vehicle Customization increases satisfaction

“They also really like the fact we can get them exactly what they want; from safety features and amenities, to color preference,” says Jackson. “And when their customized vehicle comes in – usually in about 45 days – they are over the moon when they see the Happy New Car Day sign bearing their name saying the car was made specifically for them. It takes ‘ownership’ to a whole new level.”

Custom Pre-Orders on the Rise

Jackson says about five percent of Smart’s new vehicle sales used to be custom ordered. Today the percentage has skyrocketed to about 50 percent of the dealership’s monthly new car sales. And, Jackson notes, when a consumer has all the customizable options at his or her disposal, no one opts for a base model in order to save a buck or two.

“Often times, though, it’s not options that are the most appealing aspect of pre-ordering,” says Jackson. “Instead, currently, there has been a surge in hybrid vehicle sales. And now in winter, AWD (all-wheel drive) vehicles will see a spike in popularity.”

If you know you are going to order a customized vehicle, Jackson says it might be best to do a little homework prior to meeting with a sales consultant.

“People take a lot of amenities for granted, but if you’re customizing, you should consider some of the following options,” he says.

Custom Pre-Order Checklist

1. Entertainment & Communications: think about your stereo system. Do you still need a CD player? How about satellite radio capability? Hands-free phone control? A video system? Navigation?
2. Comfort & Convenience: this includes upholstery, heated/cooled seats, power door locks, keyless entry, dual climate control, etc.
3. Safety: the simple rule of thumb is the more you can install, the more secure you’ll feel. If you can, opt for dual air bags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, cruise control, and parking assist systems.
4. Appearance: the most enjoyable aspect of customizing is picking out your paint, trim, and wheels.
5. Performance: what do you need to get from point A to point B in your daily life? A larger engine? Sport suspension? 4-wheel drive? Automatic transmission or stick?

Jackson says while customers are not complaining right now about having to customize and then wait for their new ride, he anticipates their patience won’t last forever. However, he also doesn’t see new vehicle inventory returning to “normal” in the immediate future, and with customer satisfaction currently at such a high level he’s not overly anxious about it.

“At this point, we do not see ‘ground stock’ (vehicles physically on the lot) back to our previously average levels before the end of the year,” he says. “That could change, but we really don’t see it happening until late 2022.”

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