Toyota to unveil its first EV SUV at 2021 Shanghai Motor Show

KUALA LUMPUR: A new mid-size, battery-electric SUV from Toyota will be put on display at the 2021 Shanghai Motor Show that is scheduled for next month. It will be the first Toyota to benefit from the e-TNGA platform that is developed in collaboration with Subaru. It is the same BEV SUV that the Japanese automaker teased in December 2020.

Though details about the Toyota electric SUV remain majorly unknown, we do know that it will underpin the brand’s new e-TNGA platform. This one is considered to be highly versatile and adaptable to a range of vehicles. The basic architecture principle here is that the key elements will remain the same, while others vary. Thus allowing variation in vehicle dimensions.

Further, the e-TNGA’s modular architecture makes it compatible with front-, rear-, and all-wheel drive and also with several electric motor and battery configurations. Overall, the versatility and flexibility of the e-TNGA tech allow the automaker to design vehicles that are not just battery-electric, but also great in terms of design and performance.

The recent teaser dropped by Toyota doesn’t reveal much, however, the silhouette indicates short overhangs wedged rear, and spacious cabin.

As per a few reports, the upcoming Toyota BEV SUV will occupy the same footprint as the ongoing RAV4. It will be sold initially in Europe and the US with its production taking place at the automaker’s ZEV plant in Japan. Ironically, it will be Toyota’s first EV to be offered outside China that will be unveiled in China.

More details about Toyota's first battery-electric SUV next month, when it will be showcased at the 2021 Shanghai Motor Show. It will be open for public viewing from April 21 to 28.

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