Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. announced yesterday the arrival of the brand new Scion iQ EV in the States. Designed for car-sharing programs both in the city and on college campuses, the tiny iQ EV is a battery-electric four-seater that provides an estimated range of 50 miles on a full charge.
Chris Hostetter, group vice president of strategic planning for Toyota Motor Sales, reported, Up to now, cost and convenience issues have limited BEVs appeal with a broad consumer market. 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.
He is right. Featuring Toyotas newly developed lithium-ion battery that delivers a power consumption rate of 104 Wh/km, the iQ EV comes in a super lightweight package with a 78-inch wheel base coupled with a 13.5 foot turning radius, which makes it ideal for overcrowded city streets with a difficult parking situation.
The iQ EV is designed to be attractive and safe. With a simple and bold look, it stands out from the crowd on the congested streets. At the same time, it features 11 supplemental restraint system airbags, a front passenger seat occupant detection system, a multiple load body path to decrease damage from collisions, vehicle stability control, traction control, an anti-lock braking system, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and smart stop technology, among others.
The iQ EV also comes with an HDD navigation system and a very exclusive AVN unit that has several EV driving support features. In addition, it includes energy conserving features such as regenerative braking, heat pump air conditioning with a pre-conditioning option, LED high-mounted stop light, heated front seats, and a heated windshield defroster. It also features three driving modes: D range, for the least amount of power while city driving; S range, to increase acceleration performance; and B range, to maximize regenerative braking efficiency.
While this all sounds great, only 90 iQ EVs will be available for fleet and car-sharing programs. Interested campuses and urban programs must act fast to add the car to their fleet.
Muller Toyota is really excited about the arrival of the iQ EV. Stop by Muller Toyota today with any questions on the iQ EV or to view our extensive inventory of new and pre-owned vehicles. Connect on Twitter at https://twitter.com/MullerToyota and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MullerToyotaScion.
