Based on the conventional iQ, the car features a 63bhp electric drivetrain with a battery that can be recharged in around three hours, and offers a range of up to 50 miles. Drivers are shown real-time range information on the car’s navigation screen.

Chris Hostetter, group vice president of strategic planning at Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc, explained: ‘Toyota developed the iQ EV specifically as a city commuter, for use in an urban environment, where driving distances are likely to be short, charging opportunities numerous, and its compact proportions beneficial.’

Details on individual iQ EV program partners will be announced in the coming weeks.