Is Toyota making a fully electric car?
Toyota is pursuing electrification through a mix of fully electric vehicles, hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and hydrogen fuel-cell tech. The company has released at least one mass-market BEV (the bZ4X) and, under Lexus, a fully electric model (RZ 450e). However, Toyota has not announced a global, all-electric-only rollout and continues to emphasize hybrids and other zero-emission technologies alongside BEVs.
A current portfolio of electric vehicles
Here are the current BEV options available under the Toyota brand and the broader Toyota lineup.
- Toyota bZ4X — the brand's first mass-market fully electric SUV, launched in 2022 on the standard BEV platform.
- Lexus RZ 450e — a fully electric luxury SUV that is part of the Toyota family but bears the Lexus badge.
These are the only widely available non-hybrid passenger cars in the group as of 2024, with availability varying by region and subject to supply constraints.
Beyond BEVs: Toyota's broader electrification strategy
In addition to BEVs, Toyota continues to pursue other forms of electrification, arguing that a diversified approach can meet different customer needs and infrastructure realities while reducing emissions across the fleet.
- Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) such as the Prius, Corolla Hybrid, and Camry Hybrid remain central to many markets, offering high efficiency without the need for external charging.
- Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) like the Prius Prime and RAV4 Prime provide a bridge to full electrification with short-range EV capability and gasoline range for longer trips.
- Hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), led by the Mirai, are pursued as an option for longer-range zero-emission mobility, particularly in regions with hydrogen infrastructure.
- Broad BEV expansion under the bZ family, with Toyota and its partners signaling more models in development for various segments and markets.
In summary, Toyota is moving toward more electrified options but remains committed to a multi-technology strategy rather than a sudden, global shift to pure electric propulsion.
Regional rollout and timelines
Market-by-market decisions shape how and when BEVs appear in showrooms. Toyota has indicated a cautious, market-responsive approach that prioritizes hybrids where infrastructure is still maturing, while accelerating BEV introductions where demand and charging networks support it.
United States and Europe
In North America and Europe, Toyota has introduced the bZ4X and is expanding BEV availability alongside its hybrid lineup. The pace of BEV adoption depends on charging infrastructure, incentives, and consumer demand, with the company stressing hybrid leadership remains important.
- bZ4X is available in selected markets with ongoing updates and recall considerations that affect supply and model options.
- Lexus RZ 450e offers a premium BEV option within the Toyota family, complementing the core BEV push.
Consumers should check local dealers for current availability and pricing, as model lineups can vary by country.
China and other markets
China is a strategic focus for BEVs via local partnerships and region-specific models, while other markets receive a mix of BEVs, hybrids, and PHEVs depending on policy and infrastructure.
- Toyota’s bZ series plans include models tailored to Chinese consumers and produced in partnership with local firms where appropriate.
The company emphasizes that electrification will continue to evolve with market conditions and regulatory targets shaping the product mix.
Summary
Toyota is actively expanding its electrified offerings, including the bZ4X and Lexus RZ 450e as fully electric options, but its broader strategy remains a diversified mix of BEVs, hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and hydrogen fuel cells. The upshot is a measured transition toward greater electrification that adapts to regions’ readiness and infrastructure, rather than a universal, all-electric mandate for every model.
