Toyota has surprised us all by showcasing the Innova Electric Concept at the ongoing Indonesia International Motor Show happening in Jakarta. The Japanese manufacturer is investing a lot of money in electrifying their current vehicles and working on new electric vehicles. It is important to note that Innova Electric is currently at its concept stage, we do not know what will be the prices or the launch date. In fact, Toyota has not yet confirmed if this version of Innova Electric will make it to production or not. Because, it is at the concept stage, the details about the electric motor, battery and range have not been shared.
The electric version of the Innova came as a surprise because according to media reports, Toyota is already working on a new generation of Innova. The new-gen Innova has been spotted on international as well as Indian roads.
When we look at the Innova Electric, it does not look much different from the regular Innova Crysta that is currently on sale in the Indian market. The differences are that the EV version is finished in white with blue accents. The front grille has been closed for a better-streamlined airflow. There are small changes made to the headlamps as well as the taillamps.
Toyota has also changed the alloy wheel design of Innova Electric. There is also an Electric badge at the rear. The petrol lid now houses the charge point for the MPV. The interior is more or less the same as the regular Innova Crysta. But, Toyota has made changes to the instrument cluster and the infotainment system so that it supports data related to the batteries, range etc. On the headrests, Innova EV is written.
Toyota working on new-gen Innova
Toyota has codenamed the upcoming new generation of Innova, B560. The test mules seem to be inspired by Toyota Avanza. The test mules were spotted in Thailand and now they have been spotted in India too. We are expecting it to get unveiled by the end of 2022 or in 2023.
Till now, Innova has been based on IMV platform which is a ladder frame platform. The same platform is also being used on Toyota Hilux and the Fortuner. This time, it is expected that Toyota will shift to a monocoque chassis that will be based on DNGA modular platform. DNGA stands for Daihatsu New Global Architecture.
Moreover, Innova has been rear-wheel drive till now. Because of the new platform, the Innova could be a front-wheel-drive vehicle. This would help in increasing fuel efficiency because there would be less drivetrain loss as there will be no driveshaft that will be transferring the power to the rear wheels.
Last year, there were reports that Toyota is working on hybrid technology for their diesel engine. It is expected that the Japanese manufacturer will use the hybrid system for reducing emissions. Moreover, the hybrid diesel engine would also help in getting tax advantages in some countries.
Keyword: Toyota showcases Innova Electric Concept at 2022 IIMS