The Toyota Global Hiace BEV Concept
An electric van concept with a flat passenger compartment floor, was unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show 2023 (formerly known as the Tokyo Motor Show) in Tokyo, Japan.
Toyota Auto Body has unveiled the Global Hiace BEV Concept at a major automotive innovation show in Tokyo, Japan. The concept boasts a modern and spacious design, with a wide and convenient interior that allows easy entry and exit for drivers. It offers exceptional quietness and has a remarkably tight turning radius of only 5.5 meters.
Inside the passenger compartment, there are driver’s seats along with a wide cargo area that can accommodate items up to 3.5 meters in length. The interior floor is designed to be flat and includes sliding tracks for convenient cargo movement. It features an infotainment system that enhances transportation efficiency, such as optimal route planning and destination displays for cargo transport.
The basic electric minibus from Toyota Hiace, in its 6th generation, features a complete removal of the 2.8-liter diesel engine. The design has been overhauled with a fully electric approach. The front fascia now has a large, solid front panel with no air vents, differing from the diesel version. The fog light position has changed to a yellow stripe, and the headlights are of LED type, featuring a unique design. The front panel has been redesigned, but the Toyota emblem remains in its original position.
The sides have a bold look with thick black wheel arches that blend seamlessly with large black lower body cladding and 15-inch black wheel covers. The rear window has been transformed into a solid panel with two hinged rear doors, resembling a box. The overall design exudes a more contemporary and robust appearance. The dimensions of the vehicle start at a length of 5,280 millimeters, a width of 1,950 millimeters, a height of 1,990 millimeters, and a wheelbase of 3,210 millimeters.
The interior resembles the diesel version but with all passenger seats removed except for the driver’s side. It includes standard features like a 3-spoke steering wheel, a multi-information display (MID) screen, a full-mode control air conditioning system, a gear lever placed close to the driver, a 12V power outlet, and more. The interior space offers maximum dimensions of 3,490 millimeters in length, 1,715 millimeters in width, and 1,270 millimeters in height. It seems to be designed for heavy-duty work, but specific details about the electric powertrain have not been disclosed yet.