Toyota has long been at the forefront of hybrid-electric technology, whether that’s the new RAV4 Prime or powertrains for family cars like the Highlander and Sienna. But the Japanese automaker has been relatively quiet on the electric vehicle front, preferring to sit back as other automakers test the market.

But recent noise about Toyota and EVs suggests that state of affairs could be about to change — in a big way.

First off, new vehicles are coming. Last week, Toyota teased a new mid-size electric SUV headed for Europe running on its modular e-TNGA platform. Lexus, meanwhile, announced a new Direct4 dual-motor all-wheel-drive system for both hybrids and EVs. Subaru reportedly has a compact Forester-sized EV bound for Europe coming next year, also based on Toyota’s e-TNGA platform. This suggests that Toyota and/or Lexus EVs should arrive in the U.S. in the next few years, though the details remain nebulous.

And when Toyota does foray into the U.S. EV market, it may be with game-changing solid-state battery technology. These batteries, which have been in development for years, would be safer and more durable than current lithium-ion ones. They would be more energy-dense than current tech, allowing manufacturers to add range (or use smaller packs for the same range). And crucially, they could make charging easier; solid-state batteries could theoretically charge up close to full in just 10 minutes. Eliminating range anxiety and charge time would knock out two of the major hurdles toward mass EV adoption.

Toyota previously has stated plans to have solid-state battery technology on the road by 2025…but it may arrive sooner. A new report says that, in addition to Toyota’s other big announcements, Toyota may unveil a solid-state prototype sometime next year.

They won’t be alone; VW appears to be moving forward toward solid-state batteries as well. That said, a former Tesla engineer believes solid-state batteries will be “irrelevant” and a “niche player at best,” so what the future holds for battery tech remains to be seen.

Editor’s Picks: Best Deals Today

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Jabra Elite 65t Wireless Earbuds

$40 OFF (33%)

The Jabra Elite Active 65t are sports-focused headphones (IP56) with better great sound quality for listening to music and taking calls. Also compatible with Siri, Alexa or Google Assistant, this is one of our top picks for sports-focused earbuds.

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<a class="clickable-image-link clickable-image-embed-item clickable-image-product-link" href="https://gearpatrol.me/Lodge1025Amzn" target="_blank" data-vars-ga-product-sem3-brand="" data-vars-ga-product-sem3-category="" data-vars-ga-product-brand="" data-desturl="https://gearpatrol.me/Lodge1025Amzn" data-id="" data-order="3" data-vars-ga-product-price="$14.88" data-vars-ga-product-id="a4bb32bd-5290-47b1-b9b7-cf6a364e2f84" data-vars-ga-media-role="" data-vars-ga-product-sem3-id="" data-vars-ga-outbound-link="https://gearpatrol.me/Lodge1025Amzn" aria-label="$15 $27 Lodge Pre-Seasoned 10.25-inch Cast Iron Skillet”>

Lodge Pre-Seasoned 10.25-inch Cast Iron Skillet

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Otterbox Venture 45 Cooler

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Otterbox’s Venture cooler features integrated injection-molding and high-grade cooling technologies, anti-slip rubber feet and interior separators for wet and dry goods. For today only, Otterbox is running a 25 percent off sale on everything for the last day of shipping before Christmas.

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Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine

$100 OFF (12%)

Sporting a digital interface like the popular (and much pricier) Oracle and a built-in grinder, dosing mechanism and milk wand like the stellar value Barista Express line, the Barista Pro is a more user and budget-friendly version of the brand’s entry and enthusiast-level espresso machines. Take advantage of this first and rare discount on this popular model.

READ ABOUT THE BARISTA PRO

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Gillette Heated Razor

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Take the sting out of your daily routine and give yourself the sensation of a pro-level shave at the barbershop. This offer ends on 12/16 so don’t wait.

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Braun Series 7 Electric Shaver

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Get a consistently close and comfortable shave. The 7071cc comes with the attachments, a cleaning system and carrying case.

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Mountain Hardwear Super/DS StretchDown Hooded Jacket

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For three years running, we’ve awarded the top slot to Mountain Hardwear’s Super/DS StretchDown jacket, and right now, with winter on the horizon, it’s on sale for 31 percent off.

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Everlane 100% Human Face Mask 3-Pack

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Face masks save lives. While cloth ones are great for their reusability, some do wear out after months of use. This 3-pack from Everlane will last you longer than most and was already an affordable option before the $5 discount. Plus, Everlane donates 10% of these to the ACLU. Win-win.

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Brooklinen Linen Core Sheet Set

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The HD 450BT’s standout feature is the price; they cost $200, which is significantly less expensive than the company’s flagship noise-canceling headphones, the $400 Momentum 3 Wireless. Additionally, the HD 450BT charge via USB-C and will get roughly 30 hours of playtime with ANC turned on. Save $50 for a limited time.

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Philips Norelco Showerproof Body Trimmer and Shaver

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August Smart Lock Pro + Connect Wi-Fi

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Mophie 3 in 1 Wireless Charging Pad

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Apple 20W USB-C Power Adapter

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READ OUR MAGSAFE ACCESSORIES GUIDE