Toyota today announced a limited launch of the “C+pod” ultra-compact battery electric vehicle (BEV) in Japan. Toyota C+pod BEV will be available in Japan from from December 25, to corporate users, local governments and other organizations that have been exploring new options to drive the popularization of BEVs. The new C+pod BEV is an environmentally-friendly two-seater BEV designed as a mobility option that improves per-person energy efficiency.
With an interior cabin width of 1,100 mm, the interior provides a simple space for two adults to sit side-by-side. Positioned above a white center tray, the instrument panel features meters and other functional equipment. The contrast with the black tones of the interior creates a feeling of size that exceeds its actual dimensions. Switches are also consolidated in the center panel to achieve people-friendly operability.
The Toyota C+pod comes with a fully blacked-out cabin, incorporating LED headlights and LED rear combination taillights to create a distinctive picture of concentrated features and unique BEV design. With the charging inlet/power supply outlet located between the headlights, easy daily use was a particular focus. The EV uses a structure that efficiently disperses and absorbs impact energy across multiple components, and ensures safety in the event of frontal, side or rear impacts.
Toyota C+pod supports standard charging, which makes charging easy whether at home or outside of the home. With membership of the BEV/PHEV recharging service, the EV can be charged outside of the home at Toyota dealers with G-Station chargers (approximately 4,200 charging stations) and at any standard charging spot across Japan (approximately 10,800 charging stations).
With a compact body measuring 2,490 x 1,290 x 1,550 mm (length x width x height), and a minimum turning radius of 3.9 m, the C+pod comfortably navigates sharp corners on narrow roads, minimizes steering wheel operation when parking, and provides excellent maneuverability in everyday driving. The under-floor location of the lithium-ion battery in front of the seat creates a flat, low-floor package that minimizes steps.
The motor is positioned in the rear of the vehicle, while the combination of a rigid, lightweight body and independent suspension system, that absorbs irregularities in the road surface, achieves high-quality riding comfort and brisk yet stable driving performance. The C+pod comes with a cruising range of up to 150 km.
A Pre-collision Safety System is included as standard to detect other vehicles (day and night), pedestrians (day and night), and cyclists (day). An Intelligent Clearance Sonar with Parking Support Brakes (Stationary Objects) is also included to help avoid collisions, or mitigate damage, with walls and other obstacles during low-speed operation. Toyota C+pod X is available in Japan for approximately 1,650,000 yen($15,950) and model G for approximately 1,716,00($16,587).
