Toyota's Compact Electric Pickup Truck
Toyota has unveiled a compact electric pickup truck at the Tokyo Show, which carries the name "EPU," presumed to stand for Electric Pick Up. The EPU showcases a clean, simple design with subtle yet robust styling elements, and it appears poised for potential production with minimal changes.
Compact and Practical Dimensions
The Toyota EPU is notably compact, measuring 199.6 inches in length, which is nearly identical to the dimensions of the Ford Maverick. It stands about an inch lower in height and a couple of inches wider, which could be a strategic design choice. The EPU also offers a spacious quad-cab arrangement, and its longer wheelbase provides potential for increased interior space.
This compactness is facilitated by the electric powertrain, which offers greater flexibility in vehicle layout, even though specific performance and range details were not provided by Toyota.
Clever Tailgate Design
Toyota's EPU incorporates some clever features. The tailgate, when lowered, can fold in half to extend the bed while providing a secure backstop to prevent cargo from falling out. Toyota has also hinted at a mid-gate feature, similar to the one found in the Chevrolet Silverado EV, but it's unclear whether the rear window is designed to be removed for a full pass-through.
Utilitarian Interior
The interior design of the EPU leans toward a utilitarian style, featuring an extensive dash shelf suitable for stowing various items. The design exhibits an intriguing blend of materials and blocky shapes. The vehicle features a steering yoke, suggesting a "Steer by Wire" system similar to that in the Lexus RZ. The shifter and other driving controls are located between two floating screens.
Some pictures of Toyota EPU
https://hub.monenow.com/2023/10/23/toyota-unveils-compact-electric-pickup-truck-the-epu/
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