However, what does surprise us is the the Japanese carmaker can still keep to its schedule for the electric Scion iQ that will hit U.S. dealerships in 2012. Company officials previously stated they had issues with different components and did not promise an exact release date for the battery-powered iQ.
In Europe, the EV will be sold under the Toyota iQ badge, and a prototype of the car was unveiled at this year’s Geneva Motor Show. 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 drivetrain 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).
Here’s a few highlight from the press release: “Prius family launch remains on track. Prius dominates the hybrid market with over 50% market share. With the launch of Prius family, Toyota is capitalizing on that brand strength and providing all the benefits of Prius in a variety of vehicles. Prius v, which arrives this fall, has SUV like cargo capability, nearly 60% more than the current Prius, but still is expected to deliver estimated EPA fuel economy ratings of 42 mpg combined. The Prius c compact, arriving in the spring of 2012, offers expressive styling in a city-friendly vehicle that we believe will be the most fuel efficient hybrid in the U.S.”
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