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Will Drivers Want a RAV4 EV?
In the midst of all the buzz surrounding electric vehicles, some EVs seem to fly under the radar. While everyone is marveling at Tesla models, Toyota quietly introduced an electric SUV reminiscent of the RAV4.
This new electric SUV from Toyota is currently exclusive to Europe and is named the X Prologue. It bears a striking resemblance to the RAV4. Toyota's timing couldn't be better, as demand for electric SUVs is on the rise. However, this isn't Toyota's first foray into electric vehicles. Far from it.
Few people realize that Toyota has already released two generations of an electric RAV4. Both times, production was brief. Given the popularity of the RAV4 and the growing interest in EVs, this is somewhat surprising. Let’s delve deeper into both generations.
The first-generation RAV4 EV hit the market in 1997. Toyota initially offered this vehicle as a fleet option, available for lease to cities, businesses, or utility companies. In 2002, Toyota began selling or leasing units to the general public, but only 328 units were sold or leased before production ceased. There was even a waiting list for this model, so it remains unclear why Toyota made this decision.
Fast forward to 2010, Toyota partnered with Tesla through a joint development agreement. As part of this deal, Toyota invested millions into Tesla. The result of this collaboration was the second-generation RAV4 EV, one of the first full-sized EVs from Toyota available in the U.S. Around the same time, Toyota sold one of its manufacturing plants for a mere $42 million. After Tesla went public later that year, Toyota bought $50 million worth of Tesla stock, positioning itself to leverage Tesla's renowned technology.
The second-generation RAV4 EV launched in 2012 and was discontinued in 2014. Despite its short lifespan, the RAV4 EV boasted impressive features:
- An impressive range of 103 miles on a single charge.
- IntelliTouch touch-sensor controls, navigation, satellite radio availability, and music streaming via Bluetooth.
- A lithium-metal-oxide battery pack and charging system developed by Tesla.
- Powertrain components supplied by Tesla, including the motor and gearbox.
- An electric motor capable of accelerating the RAV4 EV from 0-60 mph in 8.6 seconds.
- Notable agility.
What set this vehicle apart was its collaboration with Tesla Motors. It offered more space than many other EVs at a competitive price point, starting at $49,800.
Despite its impressive specs, the RAV4 EV faced challenges. Sales figures were modest: 192 units in 2012, 1,096 in 2013, and 1,201 in 2014, totaling 2,489 units sold. Its limited availability in California likely contributed to its lackluster performance. The primary issue was its lengthy charging time. Without access to a Level 2 charging station, it could take over 24 hours for a full charge, which was impractical for daily use. This factor likely played a significant role in Toyota's decision to end production after the 2014 model year. Other contributing factors might include limited availability and insufficient consumer interest in electric SUVs at the time.
Toyota's partnership with Tesla ended in 2014 and was never renewed. By 2016, Toyota divested its stake in Tesla. Officially, Toyota hasn't disclosed why it terminated its joint venture with Tesla. Some speculate it was to establish Toyota as a standalone EV manufacturer.
Interestingly, Toyota reintroduced an electrified RAV4, albeit in hybrid form, with the RAV4 Prime in July 2020. It boasts 302 horsepower and, unlike the X Prologue, is available in the U.S.
While the RAV4 EV didn’t gain widespread popularity, Toyota’s commitment to electric vehicles continues to evolve. Who knows what the future holds for Toyota’s next electric SUV?