Japanese carmaker Toyota’s US subsidiary, Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), has launched the new Scion iQ electric vehicle (EV) test programme in the US.
The new four-seater city commuter car is powered by an electric motor that generates an output of 63hp and maximum torque of 120lb-ft, while draws power from a 12kWh lithium-ion battery pack.
Toyota claims that the new EV will offer an estimated range of 50 miles per charge or about 4.2 miles per kilowatt-hour.
TMS group vice president of strategic planning Chris Hostetter said the battery-electric vehicles (BEV) play a vital role in future mobility strategies.
"Up to now, cost and convenience issues have limited BEV's appeal with a broad consumer market," Hostetter said.
"Toyota developed the iQ EV specifically as a city commuter, for use in an urban environment, where driving distances are likely to be short, charging opportunities numerous, and its compact proportions beneficial.
"Approximately 90 iQ EVs will be available for fleet and car-sharing applications.
"These programs will further expand Toyota's comprehensive portfolio of advanced technology vehicles which includes the recently-released RAV4 EV, the Prius Family of gas-electric hybrid vehicles, including the Prius Plug-in Hybrid, and the FCHV-Adv (Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicle-Advanced)."
The new EV offers three driving modes that include D-mode for economical city driving, S-mode for sportier acceleration and B-mode for maximum regenerative braking and assist in recharging the battery.
In S-mode, the EV is claimed to sprint from 0-60mph in 13.4 seconds, while achieving a top speed of 78mph.
Safety features of the new EV include the Star Safety System that incorporates vehicle stability control (VSC), traction control (TRAC), anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), brake assist (BA) and smart stop technology (SST).
Being built at Toyota's Takaoka Plant in Toyota City, Japan, the EV also features hill start assist control and a vehicle proximity notification system that alerts pedestrians about the approach of vehicle towards them.
