Toyota Reportedly Plans First Extended-Range EV for China in 2027

Toyota is reportedly preparing its first extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) for production in China, with manufacturing potentially beginning in April 2027.

Toyota is reportedly preparing an extended-range electric vehicle for the Chinese market as it expands its electrification strategy. [Photo: Toyota

The move would place Toyota in a vehicle segment that has gained popularity among Chinese automakers.

According to reports citing Nikkei Asia, production could initially be limited to a few hundred vehicles a month before increasing to about 200,000 units during 2027 and roughly 400,000 in 2028.

Toyota has not publicly identified the vehicle or confirmed those production targets.

An extended-range electric vehicle uses electric motors to drive the wheels, while a gasoline engine serves primarily as a generator to supply additional electricity to the battery and electric motors.

This differs from conventional hybrids, in which the combustion engine can also mechanically drive the wheels.

If the reported plans proceed, Toyota's China-built EREV would give the automaker another electrification option in one of the world's most competitive automotive markets.