Calty Design Research, the American design division of Toyota, is celebrating its 50th anniversary in style with the introduction of the Baby Lunar Cruiser Concept. This exciting concept vehicle draws inspiration from the iconic FJ40 generation of the Toyota Land Cruiser but sets its sights far beyond our planet.
The Baby Lunar Cruiser Concept is designed to tackle both earthly and extraterrestrial terrains with its impressive approach and departure angles, generous ground clearance, and innovative four-wheel-drive system. This system, featuring an electric motor for each wheel, promises outstanding off-road capabilities, making it a potential candidate for lunar exploration. However, it's not just its lunar ambitions that set this concept apart; it also features a unique steering system. Instead of a traditional steering wheel, the Baby Lunar Cruiser utilizes two joysticks for directional control, adding a futuristic touch to its design.
While the Baby Lunar Cruiser Concept is a fascinating glimpse into the creative minds at Calty, it hints at something more significant. During the launch of the new Toyota Land Cruiser, the Japanese automaker dropped a tantalizing hint about a compact off-road vehicle with a retro design. This could very well signal the production version of the Compact Cruiser EV Concept that was unveiled in 2021.
The Compact Cruiser EV Concept, as the name suggests, featured an all-electric drivetrain. However, the ultimate direction Toyota will take with the production version of this compact off-roader remains a mystery. Will it become an electric off-roader based on the bZ model family, Toyota's lineup of electric vehicles? Or might it be an adventurous interpretation of the hybrid Toyota Corolla Cross?
As we eagerly anticipate the future of Toyota's compact off-road offering, one thing is clear: the Baby Lunar Cruiser Concept and the potential production model derived from the Compact Cruiser EV Concept represent a bold step into the future of off-road exploration, combining innovation with a hint of nostalgia. Toyota's commitment to pushing the boundaries of design and performance is as strong as ever, and we can't wait to see what they have in store for adventure enthusiasts in the coming years.
