Toyota's slow electric vehicle (EV) rollout has left it behind in the software race, but the 2026 RAV4 plug-in hybrid is attempting to catch up.
The 2026 RAV4 marks the debut of Toyota's new software platform, Arene, which slipped under the radar amidst the debut of the sixth-generation RAV4.
The company is finally showing its hand in the software race that will define the next decade of cars.
If successful, this new software platform will provide important cues on how future Toyota EVs might look and feel inside, with the RAV4 GR plug-in hybrid able to drive up to 50 miles on electric power alone.
Toyota must get this right to avoid falling behind in the EV and software market.
Author's summary: Toyota debuts new software platform Arene.