The Compact Cruiser EV concept, showcased by Toyota for the U.S. market, challenges the notion that electric off-roaders must be large, as seen in many previous electric SUVs. Revealed in December 2021 along with several other electric vehicle concepts from Toyota, the Compact Cruiser EV has recently won the prestigious Car Design Award 2022 in the “Concept Cars” category, prompting Toyota to share more information about this compact electric off-roader.
As covered at the time of its unveiling, the Compact Cruiser EV appears to be a modern take on the electric FJ Cruiser, which itself drew inspiration from the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 series. The Compact Cruiser EV shares some proportions with the FJ40, known for its distinctive, compact profile. The high and vertical roof, coupled with the low and elongated hood, echoes the unique profile of the FJ40.
While Toyota has not officially confirmed production plans for the Compact Cruiser EV, the automaker has announced intentions to launch 30 electric models by 2030. The Compact Cruiser EV is one of a dozen electric concepts presented by Toyota when unveiling this ambitious goal, offering a glimpse into the potential designs for those upcoming electric models.
A compact electric SUV could provide better off-road maneuverability than larger electric off-roaders like the Rivian R1T and GMC Hummer EV. Rivian has hinted at the possibility of introducing a smaller model influenced by rally cars by the mid-2020s.
For Toyota, a compact electric off-roader makes sense to compete with models like the Ford Bronco Sport, offering a unique electric powertrain in a segment where it is not yet widely available.
Additionally, the Toyota RAV4 Prime, a plug-in hybrid, has demonstrated surprisingly good off-road capabilities. It performed exceptionally well on a challenging off-road course during testing in 2021.
