Just days out from the launch of one of its most important models in years, Toyota has confirmed that global supply chain issues, including shortages of semiconductors, will delay the arrival of the all-new LandCruiser 300 Series.

The company's Vice-President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations Sean Hanley said reduced production at plants in Japan was due to continued parts shortages resulting from COVID-19 restrictions in south-east Asia.

Mr Hanley said the pandemic had curtailed production of vital components such as semiconductors and wiring harnesses.

"As a result, Toyota Motor Company has announced reductions to production in Japan that vary by plant and by model in October, as well as those previously announced for September," Mr Hanley said.

While the new LandCruiser 300 Series is the most high-profile model to be caught up in the global supply chain drama, it is by no means the only one, with Toyota Australia confirming wait times of up to 10 months on certain models.

"In Australia, average wait times vary by model and by grade,” Mr Hanley said.

"For one-third of Toyota's vehicles, the wait time is four months or less. For three-quarters of the line-up, it's six months or less.

"The longest wait times are for the LandCruiser 70 Series and RAV4 Hybrid, both of which are around nine to 10 months on average.

"We've also been advised of some reduction to HiLux production in October, although the plan is to recover that volume in subsequent months."

Mr Hanley confirmed customer deliveries for the all-new LandCruiser 300 Series had also been delayed, with the factory that produces the burly 4x4 wagon unable to produce any right-hand-drive models in September or October.

"Right now, we will receive an update on November production later in October,” Mr Hanley said.

"Given this is an evolving situation, we are continuing taking pre-orders, but to ensure the best customer experience, we will not confirm delivery timing until they can be matched to a specific production month."

Despite this, Toyota is continuing with its plans to the launch the LandCruiser 300 via a limited number of vehicles in dealerships as demonstrator models.

The company said this would provide customers with the opportunity to experience the new LandCruiser first-hand, including through test drives as permitted.
Mr Hanley said Toyota understood the frustration of customers, especially those facing extended wait times for delivery of their new vehicle and apologised for the delays.

"I want to thank you for your patience and assure you we are doing everything we can to get you behind the wheel of your new Toyota as soon as possible," Mr Hanley said.