Toyota has announced that it will give its electric vehicle prototype an European debut at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show, scheduled to take place early next month. According to the official press release, the car, which is based on the current iQ model and represents a long-term commitment to zero-emissions light urban transportation.
The EV Prototype is meant to showcase short-range, sustainable mobility technology and to demonstrate the adaptability of Hybrid Synergy Drive technology for a range of alternative power systems.
Toyota engineers have managed to “successfully integrate” (squeeze in) an all-electric drivetrain into the tiny iQ package. The system consists of a small electric motor that is fed through a newly-developed compact lithium-ion battery mounted under the car’s floor, where the fuel tank should be. According to the Japanese carmaker, this pack does not reduce the already limited load area or passenger space in any way. Additionally, the battery offers silent electric running and provides enough charge to give the car a range of up to 65 miles (105 km), according to the Japanese CO8 test cycle.
The prototype is being put through its paces on European roads this year, in order to prepare it for a potential market debut through a leasing program that could start next year. The Japanese company will also bring the car in the USA as a Scion and is also analyzing its viability in other regions.
autoevolution will be attending the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, so stay tuned for some real up close and personal shots of the vehicles, as well as for first-hand details of the motorized contraptions presented at the event.
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