Toyota to Launch a New Two-seater Ultra-compact EV in 2021

Toyota will launch a two-seater compact electric vehicle next year for business clients and local governments, Nikkei Asia reports. The ultra-compact BEV was showcased by Toyota at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show. It can be driven in a range of approximately 100 km on a single charge, reach a maximum speed of 60 km/h, and features an extremely short turning radius.Toyota’s new EV is expected to be priced around 1.6 million to 1.7 million yen ($15,500 to $16,400), excluding subsidies. The new EV will be equipped with a lithium-ion battery made by Tokyo based Prime Planet Energy & Solutions, a joint venture between Panasonic and Toyota.Toyota Ultra-compact BEV solutions include BEV concept model for business, Walking Area BEV Standing Type and Walking Area BEV Seated Type. The Ultra-compact BEV Concept Model for Business serves as a "mobile office" with three modes to support traveling, working, and taking breaks using the vehicle. The 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. Similarly, the Walking Area BEV Seated Type provides mobility for people who are handling large amounts of luggage, or who may have difficulty walking.The ultra-compact BEV in particular is well-suited to meet the mobility needs of municipalities working to create safe, unrestricted, and environmentally-friendly transportation options in urban or mountainous communities, says Toyota.