Toyota Launches RAV4L V EV

Tokyo―TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) unveiled today the RAV4L V (five) EV, a five-door general-purpose electric vehicle developed as the successor to the three-door model that was originally launched in September 1996. Sales of the new five-door model start today through Toyota Corolla dealers nationwide.

The RAV4L V EV is equipped with a more powerful motor that delivers maximum output of 50kW, compared to the 45kW of the earlier power unit. The new model also realizes a higher level of safety without increasing the retail price. Besides the dual supplemental restraint system (SRS) air bags already installed in the three-door model, ABS, front seat belts fitted with pretensioners and force limiters, and a low tire-pressure warning indicator are all equipped as standard.

Improvements in battery and power performance, and the addition of a cold-weather model specification (option), make it possible to expand sales nationwide. The previous model was sold on a limited basis only in the Kanto, Tokai, and Kinki regions.

Toyota plans to sell about 100 units of the new model annually.