Breaking the contract could lead to “major problems that may threaten global security.”
The Toyota Land Cruiser will be retired from the US market because of declining sales. However, the well-known off-roader has been a huge commercial success elsewhere in the world. The new LC300 has already racked-up more than 22,000 preorders from Japan, where the automaker seems to be preventing customers selling the SUV.
According to Creative311 local magazine, vehicle owners must sign a dotted line agreeing not to resell it. Customers are prohibited from selling the Land Cruiser for 12 months. If that happens, customers won’t be able to purchase another Toyota. Although it is not clear how long the ban will last, there are some serious consequences.
What is the reason for this company’s drastic measures? There are many reasons. Toyota wants to avoid the situation where the original buyers sell it and make a profit. This is done by taking advantage the Land Cruiser’s popularity in certain areas. Toyota also aims to make SUVs more affordable for those who want them. This is why they limit the number of units that can be sold to clients.
Toyota fears that some LC300s could fall into the wrong hands if they don’t have a signed pledge. According to the Japanese marque, “there is a risk that foreign exchange law will be violated and, depending on where it is exported, it could lead to major security threats.”
Creative311 reports that there may be problems for the original dealer of the vehicle. Toyota could also prevent it from selling Land Cruisers after a certain period. According to Japanese publications, “There is a possibility that different measures will be taken such as charging and claiming damages from dealers to violating customers.”
Toyota is worried that the new Land Cruiser could become a terrorist weapon, as has been the case for older models of the SUV and the Hilux pickup trucks. Signing up for the LC300 requires that you confirm that the vehicle was not purchased for “export” or for “resale.”
Although the Land Cruiser’s completely redesigned design won’t make it to the United States, it will be wearing a tuxedo similar to the next Lexus LX. The premium brand also stated that it is “exploring” the possibility of a body on-frame SUV, separate from the LX.