Toyota reveals Urban Cruiser EV: All you need to know

Following the release of the Toyota Maruti eVX-based urban SUV concept, the Japanese manufacturer has finally unveiled the final production version of the Urban Cruiser EV. As the EV heavily comes from the concept, the vehicle shares a lot of similarities with the Suzuki e Vitaram which is expected to come in India with a badge of Maruti, Autocar reported. 

However, the final production model has dropped many designs from the previously introduced concept. Although the headlights and grille are still thin, they are not as thin as those in the concept, and the radiator portion on the front bumper is less angular. The majority of the two-box e-SUV's side features have been kept from the concept, and its black plastic cladding gives it the necessary SUV characteristics. Toyota will provide 18-inch or 19-inch aero-optimized wheels for the Urban Cruiser EV. The Urban Cruiser EV's rear door handles are located in the C-pillar, just as the e Vitara.

At the back, Toyota’s new ‘born-EV’ features a toned-down yet elongated version of the concept’s tail lights and roof spoiler and a chunky rear bumper. In rear styling, the Urban Cruiser overlaps significantly with the e-Vitara. Toyota says it will offer a wide variety of colour options, including dual-tone ones with a contrasting black roof.

At the rear side, the car will come with a bit toned-down yet extended version of the concept’s tail lights and roof spoiler with a chunky rear bumper making the car look like a “born-EV,” the report added. 

The born-electric SUV's overall length (4,285mm) and width (1,800mm) have decreased by roughly 15mm and 20mm, respectively, from concept to production, but its height has increased by 20mm to 1,640mm. At 2,700mm, the wheelbase is the same. It's interesting to note that the Urban Cruiser EV is slightly bigger than the Suzuki e Vitara due to these measurements. According to Toyota, the e-SUV has a turning radius of 5.2 meters.

From the skateboard platform to the motors and battery pack options, the Totyota’s upcoming e-SUv will have a lot in common with the e Vitara, Autocar report read. The battery capacity of the Urban Cruiser which has lithium-iron phosphate cells will be 49kWh and 61kWh. Smaller battery-powered urban cruisers will feature a 144 horsepower, 189 Nm motor positioned on the front axle, while larger battery-powered models will have a 174 horsepower, 189 Nm front motor.

Moreover, according to the report, the cabin of the Urban Cruiser EV is similar to the e Vitara. The dashboard design, 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, 10.1-inch infotainment centre and two-spoke steering wheel are all engineered to resemble the e Vitara. 

The pictures revealed by Toyota feature a single-zone auto climate control system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, drive modes, and an electronic parking brake with auto hold. In addition, the other confirmed features include a sunroof, a JBL audio system, and motorised driver's seat adjustment, at least on range-topping versions. The Japanese manufacturer has also announced that the EV's rear seats will have a 40:20:40 split-folding feature in addition to sliding and reclining capabilities.