Toyota announces production-ready BEV
Toyota has revealed details of a new ultra-compact battery-electric vehicle (BEV) ahead of the planned launch that will take place in Japan late in 2020.
The ultra-compact, two-seater has been designed specifically to meet the needs of daily, short-distance commuting. This vehicle would be ideal for city warriors, business people visiting local customers and newly licensed drivers
It has a range of approximately 100 km on a single charge, reaches a maximum speed of 60km and features a tight turning radius.
Toyota is pairing its planned launch next year with a new business model that aims to promote the wider adoption of battery-electric vehicles in general. Toyota will be doing research on the batteries used for these vehicles, from the manufacturer through to sale, resale or re-use, and recycling to maximise its value.
Development chief Akihiro Yanaka says, “We want to create a mobility solution that can support Japan’s ageing society and provide freedom of movement to people at all stages of life. With the ultra-compact BEV, we are proud to offer customers a vehicle that not only allows for greater autonomy but also requires less space, creates less noise and limits environmental impact.” Mr Yanaka said.
Toyota will focus on expanded initiatives designed to recall used batteries for evaluation and also re-use as appropriate in pre-owned vehicles, service parts, or even non-automobile applications.
Toyota is developing peripheral services for battery-electric vehicles such as recharging stations and most importantly, insurance.
The vehicle will be displayed at this month’s Tokyo Motor Show along with the Toyota i-ROAD and three different “walking area” BEVs that will be available for test drives on a 1.5km path.
Toyota’s Battery-Electric Vehicles: models & features
Ultra-compact BEV Concept Model for Business is designed for business applications that include repeated short-distance trips and parking, this model serves as a “mobile office” with three modes to support travelling, working and taking breaks.
Walking Area BEV Standing Type can be used for patrolling, conducting security checks or carrying heavy equipment around large facilities such as airports or factories.
Walking Area BEV Seated Type provides mobility for people who are handling large amounts of luggage, or who may have difficulty walking.
Walking Area BEV Wheelchair-linked Type connects to manual wheelchairs by providing motorized power to them for use at large facilities and tourist locations.
Toyota i-ROAD is a short-distance mobility solution that combines the size of a motorcycle with improved stability to support last-km urban commuting or tourism.
* Final range and specifications may differ from those depicted *
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Images: Toyota Australia Press Room