Toyota pivots: Lexus ES to Japan; Kentucky to build Land Cruiser-inspired and three-row EV SUVs
© A. Krivonosov
Toyota has decided to move production of the Lexus ES from the United States back to Japan. In place of the sedan, the company plans to launch two all-new electric SUVs directly at its Kentucky plant. The shift comes across as a pragmatic reshuffle of capacity, aligning a major site with the brand’s next phase of electrification.
One of the upcoming electric SUVs is most likely being developed on a Land Cruiser–based platform. Industry specialists already view the 2023 Land Cruiser SE concept as an ideal prototype for a future electric version, which suggests the company intends to preserve the defining traits of the iconic Japanese off-roader even after switching to electric power. That kind of continuity typically helps long-standing nameplates evolve without losing their identity.
The second expected model appears to be a three-row, higher-capacity SUV derived from the well-known RAV4. If that prediction holds, the vehicle could become a serious competitor to other makers of eco-friendly vehicles, benefiting from the RAV4’s strong recognition while adding a seating configuration for more passengers. For buyers who value space and a familiar badge, that combination often lands in the sweet spot.
This English edition was prepared using AI translation under editorial oversight by SpeedMe. The original reporting is by Polina Kotikova