Toyota expands its electric vehicle line-up with new Verso versions
Toyota is extending its UK electrified vehicle range with the introduction of two new people carriers: the nine-seat Proace Verso EV and the compact Proace City Verso EV.
The newcomers join the bZ4X mid-size SUV – Toyota’s current battery electric flagship – and a line-up of hybrid electric and plug-in hybrid electric models than spans the spectrum of customer choice from the compact Yaris hatchback and Yaris Cross to the award-winning Corolla and the all-new C-HR crossover SUV.
With these latest introductions, the Proace family offers battery electric versions across the board – medium-duty and compact vans and people carriers. Proace Verso becomes an all-electric range with the ending of sales of diesel-powered models, while Proace City Verso is making its debut in the UK line-up.
Proace Verso EV
Offered in nine-seat Shuttle form, Proace Verso can specified in medium (4,959mm) or long (5,309mm) body lengths.
The Shuttle specification caters for customers who need a vehicle that can meet the space and seating requirements for both work and personal use, with room for up to nine people. The seats have a tilt and tumble mechanism for easy access. Standard features include driver’s seat height adjustment and lumbar support, power windows, dark-tinted rear windows, dusk-sensing headlights, front fog lights, rain-sensing windscreen wipers, electrically adjustable, heated door mirrors and body colour-matched bumpers and door handles. The tailgate has a heater and rear wiper system. In the cabin there are curtain airbags and a multi-function roof which includes controls for rear cabin air conditioning.
The vehicle’s multimedia functions, including an eight-speaker audio system with DAB tuner and satellite navigation, are controlled via a central seven-inch touchscreen. Smartphone integration is enabled via both Apple CarPlayand Android Auto.
The powertrain comprises a 100kW electric motor and a 50kWh lithium-ion battery, the latter located beneath the vehicle floor, thus avoiding loss of cabin space. The driving range is up to 143 miles (230km). The battery can be recharged from 10 to 80 per cent in just less than 30 minutes using a rapid DC power supply.
The driver can select Eco, Normal or Power driving mode using a centre console-mounted switch. In Power mode, maximum output from is 134bhp/136 DIN hp/100kW with peak torque of 260Nm delivered from start-up. Top speed is electronically limited to 130 km/h and 0-62mph acceleration can be accomplished in 12.1 seconds. In Eco mode output is reduced to 81bhp/82 DIN hp/60kW with 190Nm of torque, while in Normal mode the electric system produces 107bhp/109 DIN hp/80kW with 210Nm.
The Proace Verso EV is available now with on-the-road prices of £42,998 for the medium length version and £43,488 for the long-body model.
Proace City Verso EV
The Proace City Verso EV is a nimble and highly practical five-seater that uses the same all-electric powertrain as its larger sister model. Again, the 50kWh lithium-ion battery is housed under the floor, so cabin space isn’t compromised.
There are four versions to choose from: the entry level Shuttle model or the Family grade, with medium (4,403mm) or long (4,753mm) body lengths.
The Shuttle specification includes an 11kW onboard charger, air conditioning, rear privacy glass, Bluetooth and four airbags. The Family adds a larger, 10-inch multi-information display, smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a pre-collision system, automatic air conditioning and 16-inch alloy wheels with five triple-spoke caps.
On-the road prices are £34,113 for the Shuttle and £37,701 for the Family, for both the medium and long body lengths. Vehicles are available to order now, with customer deliveries expected from March.
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