Toyota’s Wild SEMA Cars: Land Cruiser Resto-Mod, Time Attack EV & More

This year's SEMA show proved that Toyota isn't just playing it safe. We got an exclusive walk-through of three of the brand's show-stopping concepts, ranging from a dream restomod to a track-ready EV.

While photos are one thing, hearing the passion and technical details directly from the builders is another. The full video interview reveals the candid inside story behind each build and, most importantly, asks the one question we all want to know: Will they ever actually build them?

Here's a look at what they uncovered.

The Star: The "Turbo Trail" 60 Series Land Cruiser

For host James Reeves, the "coolest car" at the entire show was a stunningly restored 1960s Land Cruiser. But this isn't just a restomod; it's a restomod with a specific purpose: to showcase a potential new crate motor.

Marty, a 42-year Toyota veteran, explains how his team managed to fit the modern 3.5L twin-turbo V6 from the current Tundra and Sequoia into the classic 60 Series engine bay—all without cutting the firewall. The goal was to create a "garage build" package. But can you buy one? In the video, Marty gives it a "five" on the 10-point "reality scale," but hints that enough public pressure could make this dream a reality.

The Future: The Time Attack bZ

Next, Marty unveils Toyota's first-ever factory-sanctioned electric race car: the Time Attack bZ. Tasked with finding out what an electric car could do, the team bypassed a simple "street" build and went straight for the track.

This is a serious machine, with a widened body, massive tires, and aerodynamics designed to produce 1,800 pounds of downforce at 90 mph. The team is currently learning the nuances of instant electric torque, but they have a clear goal: Pikes Peak. Hear Marty's ambitious "seven-minute" target and his candid thoughts on shifting from 42 years of combustion to the new electric era.

The Attainable: The Camry GTS Concept

Finally, Adam from Toyota's design team presents a surprisingly aggressive Camry GTS Concept. Finished in a striking orange, this car is meant to answer the question, "What is the next level of performance for a Camry?"

Instead of a massive engine, the GTS concept focuses on being an "aspirational but attainable" enthusiast's daily driver. It features a stock four-cylinder hybrid powertrain but boasts significant upgrades to the suspension, handling, braking, and exhaust. This concept is Toyota's way of testing the waters, proving that sedans are not dead—they're just becoming more exciting.

To see these incredible builds up close, hear the V6 Land Cruiser start up, and find out the "reality scale" score for the Camry, watch the full video tour from AutoGuide.com.