As part of Toyota’s extensive Tokyo Auto Salon display, the Japanese automaker has also unveiled a new “EPU” mid-size bakkie concept characterised by its smaller monocoque frame, stylish physique and electrified powertrain.
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Toyota has unveiled several new concepts in the realm of mobility. In the new lineup of innovations purposed to improve travel and mobility are two new concepts, one a revision of the classic Land Cruiser nameplate and the other, a new midsize bakkie concept that could preview the firm’s double cab offerings going forward. Referred to as the ” EPU” concept, this Fisker Alaska lookalike has been touted as Toyota’s next-generation bakkie concept.
Much like the Alaska, this EPU concept is depicted as a double cab battery electric vehicle and blends durability, practicality and style into one smooth four-wheeled all-electric obelisk. In terms of its physical footprint, Toyota envisions it being 5 070 mm long, 1 910 mm wide, and 1 710 mm tall. Compared to the current, real-world Hilux, the EPU is significantly smaller, but it is said to be founded on a 3 350 mm wheelbase, which is 265 mm longer than that of the road-going Hilux.
Related: The Fisker Alaska Double-Cab Bakkie Promises Emissions-Free Utility
Focal points of the EPU concept’s exterior include the illuminated Toyota lettering on the front fascia flanked by two headlight arrays and a bold silver bash plate to the load bed that features a horizontally split tailgate. Interestingly, the interior (or the rendering of the interior) envisions a cabin with a shapely dashboard design accentuated by a steering yoke accompanied by two screens. One seems to be a standard digital driver display, whereas the other seems to be an infotainment screen with a smaller panel that features the vehicle’s start button, gear selector and parking brake.
Aside from confirming that this concept vehicle is a BEV, the firm has offered any details regarding the further details about the EPU’s powertrain. Speculation points to a dual motor configuration given that it would have to be able to contest with and best the current real-world model’s on-road performance, as well as its off-road capability.
Excited about the possibility of a BEV bakkie?
