Toyota Autobody, a subsidiary of the renowned Toyota Motors, has made a significant mark at the Japan Mobility Show during the Tokyo Motor Show 2023. They unveiled an electric concept of the ever-popular Hiace van, offering a glimpse into the future of commercial vehicles. Alongside the Hiace EV, Toyota also treated the audience to concept sports cars, SUVs, and even a modified Land Cruiser Prado, featuring a unique yoke-like steering wheel aimed at aiding drivers with lower limb impairments.

Toyota Hiace EV: Battery, Dimensions, and Design

The Toyota Hiace Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) is no small innovation. It measures a substantial 5,280mm in length, 1,950mm in width, and 1,990mm in height, with a wheelbase spanning 3,210mm. Despite its seemingly substantial dimensions, Toyota claims that the electric Hiace will have a remarkable turning radius of just 5.5 meters, ensuring maneuverability in urban environments.

During the Tokyo Motor Show, the Hiace EV was showcased in a cargo van configuration, emphasizing its utility for businesses. In this setup, it features a single seat beside a large touchscreen display positioned next to the steering wheel. Toyota envisions this screen to be a hub of information, providing real-time data such as the location of packages within the van and offering optimized delivery route mapping.

What sets this concept apart is its focus on maximizing cargo space. The single-seat configuration allows for more efficient storage of packages, and the flat floor design further streamlines loading and unloading. Toyota remains tight-lipped about specific powertrain details, such as battery size, range, or drive characteristics. However, they have emphasized the van's versatility by suggesting potential applications beyond commercial deliveries. The Hiace BEV could serve as a tourist van, offering a sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation option. Furthermore, it could be adapted for public services like ambulance duty, highlighting its adaptability and potential impact.

While the Hiace BEV concept is based on the latest-generation MPV, Toyota's history in India includes the limited sale of the previous-generation Hiace. This latest innovation signals Toyota's intent to further strengthen its presence in the electric and commercial vehicle market.

The Toyota Hiace BEV concept represents a compelling step towards a cleaner, more efficient future for commercial transportation, showcasing how innovation can address the evolving needs of businesses and consumers alike.