What's Happening?
Toyota has introduced the 2027 Highlander, an all-electric three-row sport utility vehicle (SUV), marking the company's first battery electric vehicle (BEV) to be assembled in the United States. The production will take place at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky, with battery modules sourced from a newly established $13.9 billion facility in North Carolina. The Highlander will be available in two grades, XLE and Limited, offering both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations. It features battery options of 77.0 kW/h and 95.8 kW/h, with the latter providing an estimated range of 320 miles. The all-wheel drive models deliver 338 horsepower and 323 lb-ft of torque. The SUV can seat up to seven passengers and includes 45.6 cubic feet of cargo
space with the third row folded. Notably, it incorporates Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology, allowing it to power external devices or serve as a backup power source during outages. Standard features include Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, a 14-inch touchscreen, and wireless smartphone connectivity. The vehicle supports DC fast charging, enabling 10-80% charging in approximately 30 minutes.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of the all-electric Highlander represents a significant step for Toyota in the U.S. market, as it aligns with the growing demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and the shift towards sustainable transportation. By assembling the vehicle domestically, Toyota is not only contributing to the local economy but also reducing the carbon footprint associated with importing vehicles. The Highlander's advanced features, such as V2L technology and fast charging capabilities, position it competitively in the midsize SUV segment, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers. This move also reflects Toyota's commitment to expanding its lineup of BEVs, which is crucial as automakers face increasing regulatory pressures to reduce emissions and transition to cleaner energy sources. The Highlander's launch could influence other manufacturers to accelerate their EV production plans, potentially reshaping the automotive landscape in the U.S.
What's Next?
Sales of the 2027 Highlander are expected to commence in late 2026, extending into early 2027. As the launch date approaches, Toyota will announce pricing details, which will be crucial in determining the vehicle's competitiveness in the market. The company may also engage in marketing campaigns to highlight the Highlander's unique features and its role in Toyota's broader strategy to electrify its vehicle lineup. Additionally, the success of the Highlander could prompt Toyota to expand its electric vehicle offerings further, potentially leading to more models being produced in the U.S. This development could also encourage other automakers to enhance their EV production capabilities domestically, fostering innovation and competition in the industry.
