Toyota RAV4 EV price starts at $49,800, sales start late 2012
Toyota has finally unveiled the all-new all-electric Toyota RAV4 EV. Working with Tesla Motors, Toyota has the intent to bring the vehicle to market in 2012 with a starting price tag of $49,800. The Toyota RAV4 EV will be sold fully-equipped.
“It’s all about blending the best of two worlds,” said Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager of the Toyota division. “The all-new RAV4 EV marries the efficiency of an EV with the versatility of a small SUV – in fact, it is the only all-electric SUV on the market.”
The Toyota RAV4 EV combines Tesla’s battery and electric powertrain with the base model. The front-wheel-drive model allows for two different driving modes including Sport and Normal. In sport model, the Toyota RAV4 EV goes from 0 to 60 mph in 7 seconds with a top speed of a 100 mph – Normal mode allows for a 0 to 60 mph time of 8.6 seconds with a top speed of 85 mph. The electric powertrain produces 154-hp at 2,800 rpm. Driving range comes in at 100 miles between charges.
The outside of the Toyota RAV4 EV is just like the base model with a bunch of EV badges and a different grille. On the inside, the RAV4 EV comes with 6-way adjustable driver’s seat including front seat heaters, Toyota’s Entune infotainment system, navigation, Bluetooth, iPod USB connectivity, and a total cargo capacity 73 cu. ft. Toyota says that no interior space is lost in the vehicle due to EV components.
Sales will start in late summer 2012 in California metropolitan markets including Sacramento, San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles/Orange County and San Diego. Sales volume is planned for around 2,600 units over the next three years. The battery warranty is 8 years or 100,000 miles.
– By: Omar Rana
