Toyota RAV4 EV revealed
* All-electric version of SUV
* For US market only
The Toyota RAV4 EV has been unveiled at the Electric Vehicle Symposium in Los Angeles.
Its an all-electric version of the Toyota RAV4 SUV, with a range of approximately 100 miles. It goes on sale in the US this summer.
The RAV4 EV has been developed with Tesla Motors, which produces the Roadster electric sports car and will launch the Model S luxury car in 2013. Tesla designed and produced the RAV4 EV's battery and electric powertrain.
Power comes from a 154bhp electric motor, which drives the front wheels. There are Normal and Sport driving modes; the 0-60mph time is 8.6 seconds in Normal mode and 7.0 seconds in Sport mode. Top speed is 85mph.
A range of cosmetic changes help improve airflow over the car, and include a new front bumper and grille, a rear spoiler and new door mirrors.
The RAV4 EV will go on sale through selected dealers in California at $49,800 (approximately 30,836). There are no plans to sell it outside the US.
An all-new conventionally powered RAV4 which will be a rival for cars such as the Hyundai ix35 and Nissan Qashqai is due on sale in the UK in spring 2013.
Leo Wilkinson
