Mark your calendars for January 20. That is when Toyota will launch its first electric car in India. The model is the Urban Cruiser EV, an electric SUV ready to hit the market.
What is the Toyota Urban Cruiser EV?
The Toyota Urban Cruiser EV is essentially a rebadged version of the Maruti Suzuki e Vitara. Maruti Suzuki, India's largest carmaker, has not launched its e Vitara yet. However, Toyota has given the Urban Cruiser EV a distinct look. The concept model showcased this unique design earlier.
Upon its launch, this electric SUV will face stiff competition. Key rivals include the Hyundai Creta Electric, MG ZS EV, Mahindra BE 6, Tata Curvv EV, and the upcoming Maruti e Vitara itself.
Key Facts About the Toyota Urban Cruiser EV
Design Highlights
The Toyota Urban Cruiser EV features LED headlamps with pixel-like LED DRLs. A chunky front bumper gives it a muscular appearance. The side profile looks similar to the Maruti Suzuki e Vitara, but the wheel design is different. At the rear, expect a connected LED taillight and a robust bumper, as seen in global markets.
Interior Layout
Inside, the Toyota Urban Cruiser EV will share a similar layout with the Maruti Suzuki e Vitara. Physical controls and key features will remain the same. However, Toyota will use a distinct color scheme to differentiate it from the Maruti electric SUV.
Advanced Features
The SUV is packed with modern features. It will include a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster. Comfort features include ventilated front row seats, a powered driver seat, a wireless phone charger, and a fixed glass roof.
Safety First
Safety is a priority for Toyota. The Urban Cruiser EV will come with seven airbags for occupant protection. It also gets a 360-degree camera, front and rear parking sensors, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and a Level-2 ADAS suite for advanced driver assistance.
Powertrain and Specifications
The Toyota Urban Cruiser EV will use the same electric powertrain as the India-spec Maruti Suzuki e Vitara. This means it will have a front-wheel-drive (FWD) setup, unlike the international version which offers all-wheel drive (AWD).
Buyers will have two battery pack options:
- 49 kWh Battery: This smaller pack delivers 142 bhp power and 192.5 Nm torque. It promises a range of up to 344 km on a single charge.
- 61 kWh Battery: The larger pack offers 172 bhp power with the same 192.5 Nm torque. It can achieve an impressive range of up to 543 km per charge.
Both variants will feature a front-wheel-drive drivetrain, making them efficient for urban and highway use.
The launch is just around the corner. Toyota aims to make a strong entry into India's growing electric vehicle segment with the Urban Cruiser EV.
