2024 Toyota LiteCruiser: Electric concept wins design gong

The Toyota Compact Cruiser EV has received the 2022 Auto Design Award for Principle Motor vehicles, inspite of hard level of competition.

Even though still to be confirmed by Toyota, it is believed the thought is a preview of what could be badged the LiteCruiser – a compact electric powered 4-wheel-generate established to arrive in the coming decades, featuring a battery-electrical alternative to the plug-in hybrid Jeep Wrangler and the rumoured Suzuki Jimny Hybrid.

Although Toyota referred to the automobile as the Compact Cruiser EV at its debut at the electric auto showcase in December 2021, illustrations or photos present the design making use of the LiteCruiser name on the electronic instrument cluster and rear range plate.

The Car or truck Style and design Awards named the Toyota Compact Cruiser EV as the winner in the principle car group, beating out other finalists these types of as the Audi Skysphere, Lexus Electrified Activity, Polestar O2, and the Porsche Mission R.

The Ferrari 296 GTB gained the award for very best generation motor vehicle, and Polestar took out the most effective manufacturer design and style language.

Although the Compact Cruiser EV plainly usually takes its inspiration from previous-era LandCruiser designs this sort of as the FJ40 and FJ Cruiser, the car interprets these style and design elements for a new, battery-powered period.

“This undertaking revives in the electric era just one of the most iconic Toyota off-roaders, promising a long run manufacturing compact SUV with a robust appeal,” a spokesperson for the Auto Structure Awards said at the announcement.

“All the design and style details are intended to specific all-terrain qualifications in a modern form. A rugged and present day utilitarian merchandise that is also appealing, a challenging feat to obtain.”

The Compact Cruiser EV was developed by the Toyota Europe Style and design progress centre based in France.