Toyota’s Electric Shift: The 2027 Highlander and the Future of American EV Production
Toyota is making a significant move in the electric vehicle market with the 2027 Highlander, a three-row electric SUV built entirely in America. This launch comes as many automakers reassess their EV strategies, with some scaling back ambitions while Toyota doubles down.
Made in the USA: A Boost for Domestic EV Manufacturing
The 2027 Highlander will be assembled at Toyota’s Georgetown, Kentucky facility. What we have is a key investment in American manufacturing, alongside the $13.9 billion Toyota Battery Manufacturing North Carolina plant in Liberty, North Carolina, which will supply the batteries. This commitment to domestic production ensures a secure and resilient supply chain for this new electric model.
Power and Range: Competing in the Three-Row EV Space
The Highlander EV will offer two battery options, with a maximum estimated range of 320 miles. This puts it in direct competition with vehicles like the Hyundai Ioniq 9. Two drive configurations will be available: front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The Highlander will come in XLE and Limited trims.
The base XLE trim, equipped with a 77-kilowatt-hour battery, delivers 221 horsepower and 198 pound-feet of torque, achieving an estimated range of 287 miles. Upgrading to the dual-motor, all-wheel drive version of the XLE boosts power to 338 hp and 323 lb-ft of torque. A larger 95.8 kWh battery pack is also available with all-wheel drive trims, maintaining the 320-mile range.
Charging and Technology: Embracing Modern Standards
The 2027 Highlander will feature the North American Charging Standard (NACS) plug, simplifying charging for owners. Toyota estimates a 10-80% charge can be achieved in approximately 30 minutes under ideal conditions. The vehicle also includes battery preconditioning, Plug & Charge capability, and vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality.
Inside, the Highlander boasts a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch central touchscreen running Toyota’s latest infotainment system, complete with 5G connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a built-in dashcam.
Dimensions and Space: Family-Focused Design
The Highlander EV maintains similar exterior dimensions to its gasoline-powered counterpart. It offers a spacious interior with seating for up to seven passengers (depending on the trim). Cargo space is 15.9 cubic feet with all rows in use, expanding to 45.6 cubic feet with the third row folded.
The Broader Trend: EVs and the Shifting Automotive Landscape
Toyota’s commitment to EVs, particularly with a family-focused vehicle like the Highlander, signals a significant shift in the automotive industry. While some manufacturers are prioritizing hybrid technology, Toyota is actively expanding its all-electric portfolio, joining the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9 in the three-row EV segment.
Pro Tip:
Consider the benefits of vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology. It allows you to power external devices using your vehicle’s battery, making it useful for camping, tailgating, or emergency situations.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When will the 2027 Toyota Highlander EV be available? Production begins later in 2026, with sales expected to start in late 2026.
- Where will the Highlander EV be manufactured? The Highlander EV will be assembled in Georgetown, Kentucky.
- What is the maximum range of the 2027 Highlander EV? The maximum estimated range is 320 miles.
- What charging standard does the Highlander EV use? It uses the North American Charging Standard (NACS).
Explore more about Toyota’s EV initiatives and stay updated on the latest automotive news.