Toyota is making a bold move by electrifying its iconic Previa minivan. The egg-shaped vehicle, known for its unique design, will be revived as the first all-electric Toyota minivan. This decision comes after the successful launch of Japan’s first electrified PHEV models, the Alphard and Vellfire, which offer both gas and hybrid powertrains.
The new PHEV system in the Alphard and Vellfire provides up to 45 miles of all-electric driving range, with the interior boasting the quietness of a BEV. However, Toyota has bigger plans in store for the electric minivan market. According to reports from Japan’s leading auto magazine, the Toyota Previa will be making a comeback in 2026.
The Previa, with its distinctive egg-shaped design, was popular in the early 1990s but faced tough competition from other minivans like the Chrysler Town and Country. Despite its unique styling, the Previa was discontinued in 1997 due to declining sales. Now, Toyota is reviving the Previa with a new electric twist.
The electric Previa will be available in both EV and PHEV options, featuring a similar egg-like design for aerodynamics. Initially developed as a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, Toyota shifted its focus to an all-electric model due to low demand and charging infrastructure limitations. The new Previa EV will use the GA-K platform, which is currently used for other Toyota models like the Crown, Camry, and RAV-4.
With the rise of electric vehicles in the market, an all-electric Toyota minivan could help the company gain traction in the EV segment. Toyota’s first electric model, the bZ4X, faced challenges with slower sales and competition from other electric SUVs. However, with the revival of the Previa as an electric minivan, Toyota aims to capture a new market segment.
Rivals like Hyundai are also entering the electric minivan market, with the upcoming launch of the Staria Electric minivan. Toyota’s decision to electrify the Previa aligns with its strategy to expand its electric vehicle lineup and cater to the growing demand for sustainable transportation.
As Toyota prepares to launch its first electric minivan, the automotive industry eagerly anticipates the impact of this move on the EV market. With other electric revivals in the pipeline, including the Land Cruiser and Supra models, Toyota is poised to make a significant impact in the electric vehicle space. Stay tuned for more updates on Toyota’s electrification journey and the launch of the electric Previa minivan.
