The Toyota Compact Cruiser EV Concept portrays an electrified version of the FJ Cruiser
More images of the Toyota Compact Cruiser EV concept have surfaced, and we’re in awe. In comparison to the rivals in its class, the Japanese manufacturer’s off-road electric SUV prototype undoubtedly has a lot more personality, and there’s an easy reason why.
Toyota wants their new EV design to stand out. We haven’t seen the Toyota Compact Cruiser EV concept since last December, and it just recently won the 2022 Car Design Award for concept vehicles. It might feel a little boastful on Toyota’s part to unveil all the new imagery, but we totally understand. The Toyota Compact Cruiser EV concept is truly a beaut.
The retro-inspired EV shares similarities to the first-gen Land Cruiser (1951–1955) and the discontinued FJ Cruiser. The battery-powered SUV adopts the boxy style of the adored 4×4 and finishes it with rounded corners and bright colors. With its oversized tire flares, the Compact Cruiser features a large bumper, a roof rack, and a ladder mounted over the C-pillar on the passenger side.
“Our research into electric vehicles has been ongoing for more than 30 years, and we’ve come a long way,” said Simon Humphries, Toyota Design’s senior general manager. “After an initial phase of contact with electric vehicles, people will want zero-emission cars that speak about them and express their lifestyle. And the Compact Cruiser EV is a perfect example of that trend.”
Although the Compact Cruiser EV is only a design concept, we sincerely hope the Japanese automaker will soon bring it into production in the near future. Check out more photos of the boxy EV below!
