The Toyota Land Cruiser, a symbol of strength and reliability, roots back to the 1951 Toyota BJ model. This robust four-wheel-drive vehicle has been celebrated globally for over 70 years, renowned for its unparalleled off-road capabilities and steadfast durability. Today, the Land Cruiser family showcases the flagship luxury model Land Cruiser 300, the central “light-duty” Land Cruiser 250, and the enduring workhorse Land Cruiser 70, continuously produced since 1984.
Now, a groundbreaking addition has emerged, the Land Cruiser Se. This innovative concept car represents a complete departure from tradition as a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV). Its dimensions are staggering, measuring 5150mm in length, 1990mm in width, and 1705mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3050mm and seating for seven.
In comparison, the Land Cruiser 300, a familiar sight in urban settings, measures 4985mm long and 1980mm wide, with a height of 1925mm, emphasizing the larger physique of the Land Cruiser Se.
Competing with it, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class BEV model, the G580 with EQ Technology Edition 1, debuted in Japan in October 2024. This model is 4730mm in length, 1985mm in width, and 1990mm in height, fitting five passengers. While its width closely resembles the Land Cruiser Se, the latter stretches 420mm longer, highlighting its imposing length.
The Land Cruiser Se‘s sizeable build suggests a design focused on global markets rather than the confines of Japan. It’s a three-row SUV combining style and quality, offering the instantaneous torque inherent to BEVs. It also boasts a silent ride in urban areas, promising a comfortable interior experience.
Toyota’s departure from the traditional ladder-frame to a monocoque body in this model surprises many. This shift aims to manage the increased weight from the BEV’s high-capacity battery, aligning with Toyota’s stance on adopting lighter designs to balance performance and efficiency.
The absence of specifications like power figures as of November 2024 adds to the Land Cruiser Se’s allure, sparking speculation and excitement. Though loyal Land Cruiser fans might balk at the loss of the ladder-frame—a historical hallmark—this transition signals Toyota’s commitment to evolving its four-wheel-drive vehicles into the electric era.
Amidst speculation, the existence of the Land Cruiser Se reinforces the likelihood of the Land Cruiser’s persistence even as BEVs become mainstream. This milestone also reveals newfound attractions of the Land Cruiser brand.
The English words “Land” (earth) and “Cruiser” (warship) embody the vehicle’s name. As an electric model, the Land Cruiser is poised to maintain its dominance as the “cruiser of the land.”
