Toyota NZ’s next big thing to have been out this week – instead, customers have been told the new 300-Series will be here “early next year”.

2021 Toyota Land Cruiser 300_pre production model shown (132).jpg

THE lack of the smallest of essentials for car-making has humbled the largest of Toyotas.

The national distributor has announced today news already shared with those firat to buy-in – that the Land Cruiser 300 Series, originally set to launch this week, has been delayed until early next year.

Toyota’s largest passenger model and longest-lived name plate has been knocked for six by the same factor that is hurting production of numerous other Toyota and Lexus models.

Ongoing Covid-19 disruptions and a global shortage of essential parts, particularly computer microchips – teensy items without which modern vehicles struggle to operate.

“With Delta variant cases surging and extended lockdowns globally, a parts supplier in Malaysia has had to shut down for a short period of time,” says Toyota New Zealand general manager of new vehicles, Steve Prangnell.

“Unfortunately, this means that our customers who have ordered a Land Cruiser 300 will now have their new vehicle delivered early in 2022,” he says.

“We understand this situation is hugely disappointing for our customers who were looking forward to having their new vehicle before the Christmas holiday period.

“We have reached out to those customers that are affected, either through their local store or directly from Toyota New Zealand to apologise, and we want to thank them for their continued support and patience.”

Toyota does have a small count of new Cruisers landed, and will achieve a few more in coming months, but these are earmarked as demonstrator vehicles. TNZ says having these will allow customers the opportunity to experience the new Land Cruiser first-hand, through test drives and store events.

“We are working with customers while they wait for their new Land Cruiser to arrive and we want to reassure them that our team in New Zealand, and globally, are working hard to ensure we can mitigate as many COVID-19 related supply changes as possible,” he says.

Meantime, Lexus NZ has spoken out in similar tone.

“The surge in (coronavirus) cases means factories in Southeast Asia have been closed for short periods of time, causing disruptions to our supply of essential componentry parts,” says Lexus NZ general manager Andrew Davis.

“Componentry parts like microchips are an essential part of the vehicle manufacturing process, meaning we have been unable to produce as many vehicles as we thought we would in September.”

This results in a decreased supply of vehicles coming into the country, and an increased customer wait time for vehicle delivery.

“These are extraordinary circumstances, we appreciate the understanding from our customers and would like to thank them for their flexibility and patience while we focus on minimising the disruption to our local supply chain,” he says.

“Lexus is working closely with our dealers and impacted customers. We are committed to addressing any arising concerns as a result of these Covid-19 delays, and encourage customers to contact us with any concerns they may have.”