Toyota kickstarts era of the electrified off-roader with launch of first-ever hybrid Land Cruiser in the Middle East

Al Bawaba

2 days ago

Toyota is proud to announce the launch of the new Land Cruiser HEV, the first hybrid electric model in the iconic Land Cruiser series. Setting a new benchmark for electrified off-road vehicles, the new Land Cruiser fuses seven decades of heritage with Toyota's cutting-edge hybrid technology, delivering enhanced performance while maintaining the unmatched reliability, durability, and all-terrain capability for which the Land Cruiser is renowned.This momentous launch, which sees the new Land Cruiser HEV debut first in the Middle East, highlights the unique and enduring relationship between the region and the Land Cruiser nameplate. Since the model's inception in 1951, the Land Cruiser has supported the lives and livelihoods of people across the globe, becoming an indispensable tool across some of the world's harshest environments.The introduction of the Land Cruiser HEV marks a bold step toward Toyota's vision for carbon neutrality under its multi-pathway approach, offering customers greater choice while ensuring that no compromises are made on capability or reliability. Building upon 28 years of leadership in hybrid technology, Toyota has applied its extensive expertise to create an electric off-roader capable of delivering superior power, driving refinement, and environmental benefits, all while staying true to the Land Cruiser spirit.Masaya Uchiyama, Chief Engineer in charge of development, commented: "The fully remodeled Land Cruiser, introduced in 2021, has been so well received across all regions, and we are deeply grateful for our customers' continued support. As the global drive towards a carbon-neutral society accelerates, we recognized the importance of offering electric vehicle options for our flagship Land Cruiser. It is an honor to introduce the Land Cruiser Hybrid first to the Middle East, a region whose valuable feedback has helped shape the Land Cruiser's evolution. While we have made significant advancements with this HEV model, this is only the beginning of our journey as we work to create the ultimate electric off-roader, evolving it further with the insights and experiences of our loyal customers."The Land Cruiser HEV inherits the core DNA that has defined the series for generations — reliability, durability, and exceptional off-road performance — now enhanced through electrification. The hybrid system introduces a 20% increase in torque and a 40% improvement in accelerator response compared to conventional powertrains, resulting in a driving experience that is more powerful, more linear, and more responsive across every terrain.Extensive development and real-world testing on global terrains, including the deserts, mudflats, and mountainous landscapes of the Middle East, ensured that the Land Cruiser HEV remains capable of taking drivers anywhere and everywhere — and bringing them back safely. Invaluable lessons learned from Toyota's participation in off-road rallies such as the Dakar Rally were also incorporated into the development process to enhance the vehicle's endurance and performance in extreme conditions.As a result, the Land Cruiser HEV's hybrid system has been designed with true off-road reliability in mind. Even in the unlikely event of hybrid unit failure, the vehicle can continue operating solely on the combustion engine, ensuring peace of mind in remote areas. The hybrid battery area has been specially waterproofed to maintain the Land Cruiser's famed fording ability, allowing it to tackle rivers and water obstacles with confidence. Additionally, the vehicle also offers a third-row seat and cargo layout specifically optimized for the addition of the HEV system, ensuring no compromise in versatility or interior space.
The launch of the Land Cruiser HEV represents more than just the evolution of a legendary vehicle — it is a commitment to a future where Toyota continues to deliver solutions that meet customer needs without compromising its core values. By bringing electrification to its most trusted off-roader, Toyota reaffirms its dedication to creating vehicles that inspire trust, adventure, and enduring loyalty. As Toyota looks ahead to an era of sustainable mobility, the Land Cruiser HEV stands as a proud example of innovation rooted in tradition, offering customers across the Middle East, and the world, an even better way to explore new horizons.