This new electric SUV is Toyota and Suzuki's first joint all-electric vehicle. They plan to sell it worldwide, tapping into the growing SUV market.
The new model is designed exclusively as a battery electric vehicle (BEV). It is described as "a nimble SUV with the sharp driving characteristics of a BEV", with "ample cruising range and a comfortable cabin". It is also available with a 4WD system for better drivability on rough roads and more powerful driving performance.
The BEV unit and platform used for this model were jointly developed by Suzuki, Toyota and Daihatsu Motor Corporation.
"Suzuki will supply our first BEV to Toyota globally. I am grateful that the collaboration between the two companies has further deepened in this way. While continuing to be competitors, we will deepen our collaborations toward solving social issues, including the realization of a carbon-neutral society through a multi-pathway approach." said Toshihiro Suzuki, President of Suzuki Motor Corporation.
"By leveraging the BEV unit and platform that we jointly developed, we will take a new step in our collaboration in the field of electrified vehicles. This will allow us to deliver various choices that contribute to a carbon-neutral society to customers worldwide. We would like to learn from each other’s strengths, compete, and further joint efforts based on a multi-pathway approach." said Koji Sato, President of Toyota Motor Corporation.
Prices, more specific characteristics and even the name of the new electric SUV remain undisclosed for now.
Source: Toyota