Toyota Takes Kei-Cars Head On With a Two-Door EV For Japan
Better for the environment and even more compact.
While Japan’s narrow urban streets are increasing demand for kei-cars across the country, Toyota have decided to take this trend head on by introducing something even more compact: a two-door electric vehicle named the C+pod.
Looking almost like a Smart Car but redesigned for 2020, the entire EV measures only 61 inches tall, 50 inches wide, and 98 inches long. A rear-mounted electric motor delivers a power output of 12.3 horsepower and 41 pound-feet of torque, channeling from a 9 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that provides a range of 93 miles and charges in five to 16 hours, depending on the outlet type you’re using. Top speed comes in at a reasonable 37 mph.
The body panels themselves are constructed from plastic to lower costs along with a simple interior layout that puts the dashboard and console right down the center of the two seats. There’s also enough trunk space for personal belongings or even a few grocery bags.
Currently announced only for the Japanese market, the C+pod will be available in two variations: the X model and the G model. The former will go for roughly $16,000 USD while the latter will sell for a slightly higher $16,600 USD. The car will first be sold to corporate users and local governments before reaching general consumers in 2022.
Elsewhere in the automotive world, McLaren’s CEO Mike Flewitt has publicly addressed some of its buyers’ concerns.
