Toyota's Next Electric SUV Is Hiding Under This Heavily Modified Corolla Cross
Hybrids and plug-in hybrids on the new platform, according to the company, will consume 15% less fuel.
Toyota is testing a heavily modified Corolla Cross, under the body of which the new platform for various powertrains is likely being evaluated. Such a prototype is called a 'mule': at an early stage of development, real bodies are not yet ready, so an existing model is used. The vehicle has a shortened wheelbase, no exhaust pipes, and a frame is visible under the floor.
The new architecture is intended to unify the technical foundation for vehicles with internal combustion engines, hybrids, and electric vehicles. Toyota expects this to allow flexible production volume adjustments based on demand and considers the possibility of an electric Corolla. The platform and new engines are expected to hit the roads next year.
For future models, a new inline three-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1.5 liters will be introduced. It will replace the current 1.5 and 1.8-liter engines.
