This year, Toyota plans to add two new electric and hybrid vehicles to its lineup in India. The first of these is expected to hit the market very soon, within a few weeks. For over 15 years, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has been offering full hybrid vehicles in India. Some of these models were fully imported from abroad and some were assembled in India.
In this context, the company is now preparing to introduce two new types of vehicles that will run on pure electric and new hybrid technology in the Indian market. This is an important step in Toyota’s efforts to electrify the Indian market.
1.Toyota Urban Cruiser
The new Toyota Urban Cruiser is not a rebadged version of the earlier Maruti Vitara Brezza. Instead, it is a new model developed under a joint venture with Maruti e Vitara. The front design of the vehicle is designed to resemble the head of a seal called the “Hammerhead Shark”. This gives the vehicle a smooth, balanced and attractive look.
The front of the vehicle features sleek headlights, a faux upper grille, and a simple bumper design. All of these are arranged in a neat and tidy manner. Apart from the unique exterior design, its interiors are very similar to the Maruti e Vitara.
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The new Urban Cruiser model is introduced in two different variants. One is the standard FWD (Front Wheel Drive) model and the other is the Long-Range FWD model suitable for long-distance travel. This gives customers the opportunity to choose an electric vehicle according to their travel needs.
Standard FWD Urban Cruiser – The best choice for daily electric commuting
- The Standard FWD variant is the base electric version of the Toyota Urban Cruiser model. It is powered by a motor that produces 105.8 kW (142 horsepower) and 192.5 Nm of torque. This model uses a 47.8 kilowatt-hour (kWh) LFP battery. This allows the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 9.6 seconds.
- The top speed of this model is 150 km/h. After a full charge, the vehicle has the power to travel more than 400 kilometers. This makes it an excellent, environmentally friendly, travel comfort and electric power choice for daily commutes and city market runs.
Long Range Urban Cruiser – Advanced Electric SUV for Long Journeys
- The Long Range FWD Urban Cruiser is an advanced model with high power and long-distance capability. It is equipped with a motor that produces 128 kW (172 horsepower) and 192.5 Nm of torque. It is paired with a 59.8 kilowatt-hour (kWh) LFP battery. This system allows the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8.7 seconds and has a range of over 500 km on a single charge.
- The model is expected to be launched in the Indian market in the fourth quarter (Q4) of the year. With its longer range and powerful performance, this model will be widely welcomed among electric vehicle enthusiasts who want to travel long distances.
2.Toyota Fortuner Mild-Hybrid
The Toyota Fortuner Mild-Hybrid is designed to offer a small amount of fuel economy compared to the regular Fortuner model. It uses a 2.8-liter turbo diesel engine, which delivers powerful performance. It is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission for a smooth driving experience. Moreover, the vehicle can be operated effectively on various roads with the optional part-time 4WD system.
Although this hybrid model is not fully electric, it is designed to provide a small amount of electric assistance and reduce fuel consumption. Therefore, it is an advanced, economical option for those who prefer a normal Fortuner.
Key Feature
- The Toyota Fortuner Mild-Hybrid model uses a new technology called Belt-Integrated Starter Generator (BSG) instead of the normal alternator. It acts as a permanent magnet synchronous motor. It includes a 48-volt lithium-ion battery, which has 13 cells, a capacity of 4.3 Ah and weighs 7.6 kg. This battery is mounted under the rear seats of the vehicle.
- BSG technology supports the diesel engine. That is, when the vehicle is running, the BSG provides an additional 12 kW (16 hp) of power and 65 Nm of torque. This helps in reducing the vehicle’s dynamic driving and fuel consumption. Through this, it not only acts as a battery, but also improves the efficiency of the engine.
Engine Capacity
The diesel engine in the Toyota Fortuner Mild-Hybrid model is capable of producing 150 kW (201 hp) of power and 500 Nm of torque. This gives the vehicle a driving experience comparable to fire and a load-hauling capacity. This high-quality power output, when combined with BSG technology, provides even more efficient driving. The engine not only delivers its own power, but also increases fuel economy through the hybrid system.
Toyota’s Fortuner Mild-Hybrid model has been officially announced to be launched in India in June this year. With the combination of a diesel engine and hybrid technology, this upcoming SUV is expected to come with better fuel economy, improved driving experience, and eco-friendly performance. This has created great expectations among Fortuner fans.
