In a groundbreaking collaboration, Toyota has unveiled the highly anticipated Urban SUV concept, a midsize electric SUV, marking a strategic alliance with Maruti Suzuki's eVX platform. The concept, set for a global debut in production form next year, promises to revolutionize the electric SUV market with a shared architecture, promoting economies of scale.
Shared Platform and Design
The Toyota Urban SUV concept is poised to share more than just a platform with the Maruti Suzuki eVX. Beyond common mechanical components, both models will also feature shared exterior body panels and interior trim, underscoring the depth of collaboration between the two automotive giants. The Urban SUV concept boasts dimensions of 4,300mm in length, 1,820mm in width, and 1,620mm in height, aligning closely with the Maruti eVX, showcasing a harmonious synergy.
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Distinctive Styling and Features
Exhibiting a design reminiscent of Toyota's recent EV offerings, such as the bZ compact SUV concept, the Urban SUV concept embraces edgy surfaces, C-shaped LED daytime running lamps, flared wheel arches, and a robust SUV silhouette. The rear end draws parallels with the eVX, emphasizing a shared design language. Although the interior details remain undisclosed for the Toyota Urban SUV concept, insights from Maruti Suzuki suggest a spacious and flexible cabin, equipped with modern creature comforts, safety features, and technology.
Platform and Powertrain
Built on the 27PL skateboard platform, the Urban SUV mirrors the eVX's underpinnings, emphasizing localization and production at Suzuki's Gujarat facility in India. With a targeted annual manufacturing capacity exceeding 1.25 lakh vehicles, the platform will offer two battery pack options, including a high-spec variant with a 400km-plus range. Toyota has confirmed the availability of both front-wheel drive (FWD) and dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) options for select markets.
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Global Entry with European Focus:
Toyota positions the Urban SUV as its entry-level electric SUV for the European market, aligning with its commitment to introducing three electric SUVs in the region. The made-in-India Urban SUV will join two other forthcoming models, the bZ Sport Crossover and the Compact SUV Crossover, in Toyota's European electric SUV lineup. The production version of the Urban SUV is expected to hit the market shortly after the Suzuki eVX makes its showroom debut in 2024.
The unveiling of the Toyota Urban SUV concept marks a pivotal moment in the automotive industry, showcasing the power of collaboration in the pursuit of sustainable, electric mobility. As these two automotive giants join forces, the future of electric SUVs is poised for an exciting transformation.