Toyota is to present a production-ready ultra-compact battery electric vehicle (BEV) at this month’s Tokyo Motor Show ahead of the vehicle’s planned commercial launch in Japan in late 2020.

Toyota’s Ultra-compact BEV

Intended as a mobility option for short-distance travel, the Ultra-compact BEV two-seater vehicle is aimed at sectors including business people visiting local customers. It has a driving range of approximately 100km (62 miles) on a single charge and maximum speed of 60km/h (37mph), along with turning circle designed for urban situations.

It would also be aimed at local authorities as part of mobility solutions and Toyota is already engaging with around 100 corporate and government partners to explore new transportation models that would include BEVs such as the Ultra-compact BEV, and is in ongoing discussions with others.

The vehicle’s 2020 launch in Japan will be accompanied by a new business model that aims to promote the wider adoption of battery electric vehicles in general. This includes scrutinising every step of the battery’s lifecycle, from manufacture through sale, resale or re-use to recycling, to maximise its value.

Near-term plans will see Toyota focus on expanded leasing initiatives, designed to recapture used batteries for evaluation and re-use as appropriate in pre-owned vehicles, as service parts, or even in non-automobile applications. Toyota is also developing peripheral services for BEVs, such as recharging stations and insurance.

Toyota’s stand at the Tokyo Motor Show will also feature additional BEVs, including Walking Area BEV and the Toyota i-ROAD.