Toyota Autobody, a subsidiary of Toyota Motors that handles the commercial vehicles and vans of the company, displayed an electric concept of the Hiace van at the Japan Mobility Show (Tokyo Motor Show 2023). Toyota also unveiled a concept sportscar, SUV and even a Land Cruiser Prado, which featured a yoke-like steering wheel to aid drivers with lower limb impairments.
Toyota Hiace EV battery, dimensions and design
The Toyota Hiace BEV measures 5,280mm, 1,950mm wide, 1,990mm tall and has a wheelbase of 3,210mm wheelbase. While the dimensions might be large, the company claims that the electric Hiace will have a turning radius of 5.5 metres.
The vehicle was on display in a cargo van setup, with just a single seat offered and a large touchscreen beside the steering wheel. The brand claims that the screen will be able to display information such as the location of the package in the van, and it will be able to map out the shortest delivery route.
The concept vehicle in the delivery van setup also features a single seat, which helps increase cargo space. Also present in the cargo spec van is a flat floor and a rack to store packages.
Toyota has not revealed any powertrain details like battery size, range or drive details. But the brand has also said that the van can be utilised as a tourist van and even for public services like an ambulance.
While the Hiace BEV is based on the latest-gen MPV, Toyota did sell the previous-gen Hiace in India in limited numbers.
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