Anton Jimmy Suwandy, Marketing Director of Toyota Astra Motor (TAM), has confirmed that Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia (TMMIN), a subsidiary of TAM, is currently conducting tests on the pure electric version of the Toyota Innova model. However, he did not provide any further details regarding this.
In the meantime, Bob Azam, Vice President of TMMIN, has disclosed to CNN Indonesia that this testing is being carried out in order to collect research data for the transition to fully electric vehicles.
In early 2012, Toyota introduced the Innova EV Concept model at the Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS) in Jakarta, which garnered significant attention worldwide.
Compared to the Innova model equipped with traditional internal combustion engines, the Innova EV Concept, in addition to being powered by an electric powertrain, also showcases distinctive design features. These include a closed grille, blue stripes in the headlamp cluster, a blue Toyota logo, EV logo (on the side), and an Electric logo (at the rear), along with long blue decals on the body. Additionally, it comes with unique gray alloy wheels and blue highlights in the taillights.
Inside the cabin, the electric MPV features its own instrument cluster, but still retains a tachometer despite utilizing an electric motor. The infotainment screen displays essential information, including the status of the electric powertrain (battery capacity, remaining range, and current output power), as well as the vehicle speed. The bright-colored leather seats have the “Innova EV” emblem imprinted on the front headrest.
Many people are now wondering whether Toyota will consider using the existing platform of the Innova to develop an electric version of this MPV. However, in reality, the Innova EV is simply a technical research project and will not enter mass production.
According to Autocar India, Anton Jimmi Suwandy, Marketing Director of Toyota Astra Motor, has confirmed that the Kijang Innova Electric will not be released in the market. Instead, it is solely a concept car designed to serve technical development and assess the feasibility of such electric vehicles in the region.
Trang Nguyen (Forum.autodaily.vn)