Toyota confirmed it is developing an electric version of the Corolla, its best-selling vehicle worldwide with over 57 million units sold since the model's introduction in 1966. This move follows recent warnings from Toyota's chairman and former CEO Akio Toyoda, who told Japanese broadcaster NHK in July that the company must adapt to new competition and technology from China or risk being unable to survive. CEO Koji Sato further emphasized the need for evolution when he asked attendees at the Japan Mobility Show how the Corolla should change for future generations.
The article notes Chairman Akio Toyoda warned Toyota must adapt to new competition from China or risk being unable to survive.
The upcoming Corolla will retain the existing TNGA-C platform but in a heavily modified form that can accommodate gasoline, hybrid, plug‑in hybrid and battery‑electric powertrains. Toyota has revealed concept images showing a sleeker exterior, a high‑tech interior, and body‑style variations including sedan, hatchback, crossover and GR models. The hybrid variant is described as using a new 1.5‑liter four‑cylinder engine paired with an electric motor for about 134 horsepower, delivering roughly 10‑20% better efficiency than the current setup, with an all‑wheel‑drive option possible.
The article states Toyota revealed concept images showing a sleeker exterior for the upcoming electric Corolla.
The article mentions Toyota revealed concept images showing a high-tech interior for the electric Corolla.
For the all‑electric Corolla, Toyota said it will be offered in single‑ and dual‑motor configurations with a minimum driving range of 250 miles. Pricing is expected to start in the $30,000 range, above the projected $25,000 for the gasoline model and $27,000 for the hybrid. However, Toyota has not yet decided whether the electric Corolla will be sold in the United States, and the vehicle’s debut is slated for sometime in 2027 as a 2028 model year, with many technical details such as battery capacity and charging speed still undisclosed.