Latest Update: Toyota is readying itself to enter the race of EVs with the Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara-based Urban Cruiser EV. According to sources, the Japanese automobile manufacturer will manufacture an electric version of Urban Cruiser in Suzuki’s Gujarat-based plant and export it to Japan and other international markets.
Another new source claimed that the automaker plans to launch its Urban Cruiser EV in Europe by 2025 and India thereafter. Toyota has plans to work on 15 zero-emission vehicles, including six battery-powered electric vehicles, including the Toyota Cruiser EV.
Toyota has confirmed that the electric SUV will have a “hammerhead” front-end design, with an LED light bar and a tail light similar to the Suzuki e-Vitara. In terms of dimensions, the Urban Cruiser EV will measure 4,285 mm in length, 2,700 mm in wheelbase, 1,640 mm in height, and 1,800 mm in width. The electric Urban Cruiser will have a turning radius of 5.2 meters and be available in 18- or 19-inch alloy wheels.
The Toyota Urban Cruiser EV is expected to come mated with a 49kWh battery pack in FWD, while a 61kWh battery pack in the AWD variant. The FWD variant is also likely to get a 61 kWh battery pack as an option, enabling it to deliver 174 horsepower. In contrast, the FWD variant with a 49 kWh battery will produce 144 horsepower. In the AWD option, the model will churn out 184 horsepower and up to 300 Nm of torque.
Inside the cabin, the electric SUV will likely get a similar interior layout to the Suzuki e-Vitara. It will also get a 10.25-inch digital instrument console, a 10.1-inch multimedia screen with smartphone integration, a JBL premium sound system, a fixed sunroof, and 12 colors of ambient lighting. Its rear side will have a slighting function and allow a 40:20:40 split. The EV will pack a 360-degree camera, an advanced driver assistance system, and multiple airbags for added safety and comfort.
Expected Price & Rivals
Toyota Urban Cruiser EV's expected price in India can range around Rs 17 lakh and positioning it as a strong rival of MG ZS EV, Hyundai Creta Electric, and Tata Curvv EV.