What It Is:
Toyota’s reborn electric drive RAV4 EV is slated for development and demonstration testing in 2011 before launching into regular production in 2012. The original RAV4 EV was produced from 1997 to 2003 and gained such a loyal following that many of the original drivers who leased the vehicle chose to purchase the crossover when Toyota announced they were pulling the plug on the program. In fact, there are still nearly 750 of the first-generation RAV4 EVs still on the road. It’s a game of “Where’s Waldo” trying to find one. Let us know if you’re successful.
What’s New for the 2012 RAV4 EV:
- Produced in Collaboration with Tesla: The Toyota/Tesla collaboration is intended to speed the engineering and development process. Toyota cites Tesla’s “streamlined, quick-action approach” as a way to move the decision and approval phases forward. Beyond that, Tesla will be responsible for producing and supplying the battery and other related parts to Toyota.
- A 100-Mile Range: The second-generation RAV4 EV is projected to have a range of 100 miles in typical driving. Though the demonstration vehicles are currently 220 pounds heavier than the V6 gasoline-powered RAV4, the EV version has an electric motor powerful enough to deliver 0-60 mph acceleration nearly as quickly. To accommodate the added weight from the battery, Toyota beefed up the suspension tuning and steering system. Other major components were relocated to better balance the vehicle with the added mass from the battery.
- Powered by Lithium Metal Oxide Battery: While the original RAV4 EV utilized a nickel metal hydride battery, the new model will be powered by a lithium metal oxide battery pack. Toyota points out that final production specifications are likely to change slightly as the EV moves through the development process. The current battery pack has a useable output in the mid-30 kilowatt-hour range.
- 73-Feet of Cargo Space: Battery placement in the 2012 RAV4 EV doesn’t infringe on interior space. With the rear seats folded down, the platform’s full 73-cubic feet of cargo space is available.
- Manufactured in California and Canada: Tesla will produce the battery and related parts at their facility in Palo Alto, California. Final assembly for the EV has not been determined but the RAV4 will continue to be produced at Toyota’s Woodstock, Ontario Canada plant.
- Distinctive Styling Touches: To set it apart from the gasoline version, the EV model will sport a unique frontend treatment that includes different headlamps and fog lamps. It will also have a special paint color and of course “EV” badging. On the inside, there are multi-media dash displays, a push button shifter, and custom seat trim.
The Vehix View:
Though the original RAV4 EV didn’t gain mainstream success, it was (and still is) a favorite of electric vehicle aficionados who were lucky enough to hang onto one of the original lease vehicles. We’re sure those passionate about electric cars are thrilled the RAV4 EV is coming back. Perhaps this time around, there will be enough interest in the EV market to give the RAV4 EV staying power. Still a year away from production, it certainly appears to have all the right elements for electric vehicle stardom.
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