Toyota's iQ Minicar Goes Electric in Paris

Toyota has long been the king of hybrid cars, but the automaker isn’t the dominant all-electric brand just yet. In addition to bringing its RAV4 EV to market, Toyota’s also electrifying its iQ – albeit in limited quantities.

 
The Toyota iQ EV is a production model that’s being shown off this week at the Paris Motor Show. Combining the ultimate in compact city car agility with zero emissions and the easy, silent driving of a fully electric vehicle for up to four passengers, the iQ is perhaps the ideal EV for urban cities.

 
Powering the iQ EV is a 47 kW electric motor/generator that’s fueled by a 12.0 kWh, 277.5 V battery pack. Its powertrain allows for a 0 to 62 mph run in a longish 14 seconds and a top speed of 77 mph. Driving range between charges comes in at 52.8 miles. While the iQ EV may not pose a threat to the Nissan Leaf in terms of range or performance, it still offers zero emissions for urban commuters who don’t have too far to travel each day.

 
Charging the Toyota iQ EV requires just three hours. With a fast charger, it can be recharged up to 80-percent capacity in only 15 minutes.

 
Unfortunately for Eco-conscious urbanites, Reuters is reporting that the iQ EV will have an “extremely limited release.” Although Toyota is moving to develop EV technology and increase its offerings in this segment, the company is still uncertain about the practicality of all-electric vehicles in the short- to medium-term. For now, Toyota believes that plug-in hybrid technology is the answer will better meet the needs of society.

 
Despite Toyota’s lukewarm response to EVs, the iQ EV is currently on sale in Japan and still might make it to other markets. But before Toyota decides for certain how it feels about EVs, you can find about more about the iQ EV below.

 

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