Toyota e-Palette EV: Japan Launches Futuristic 17-Seater

ByUtkarsh Hours
Toyota e-Palette EV
Toyota e-Palette EV launched in Japan with 17-seater multi-purpose design and autonomous tech.(Image Source @ToyotaPrensa)

Toyota’s new self-driving electric vehicle, the e-Palette EV, has been launched in Japan in a grand manner, with the potential to redefine the standards of urban mobility in the coming future. Designed as a 17-seater multi-purpose vehicle, it can serve diverse roles such as public transport, mobile restaurants, food trucks, and entertainment hubs. Let us take a detailed look at this revolutionary vehicle’s features, technical details, pricing, and future roadmap.

Toyota e-Palette Now Fully Ready

First showcased as a concept in 2018, the e-Palette has now been launched in its complete form. It is not just an electric vehicle but a “moving business space” that can be transformed according to different customer needs. Its design and features make it a versatile, efficient, and eco-friendly mobility solution, set to make urban life more convenient and smarter.

Powerful Battery and Impressive Range

The e-Palette is powered by a 72.82 kWh lithium-ion battery, delivering an estimated range of around 250 kilometres under WLTC standards. It is equipped with a 150 kW (204 hp) AC synchronous electric motor, producing 266 Nm of torque. The vehicle’s top speed is capped at 80 km/h, making it well-suited for urban traffic conditions.

For charging, it supports both modes—DC fast charging at 90 kW charges the battery up to 80% in just 40 minutes, while a standard 6 kW AC charger takes about 12 hours for a full charge.

Design and Comfort

The e-Palette measures 4,950 mm in length, 2,080 mm in width, and 2,650 mm in height. Its cabin dimensions stand at 2,865 mm (length) x 1,780 mm (width) x 2,135 mm (height), with a total weight of around 2,950 kg.

The vehicle accommodates 17 passengers—offering comfortable seating for 4, standing space for 12, and 1 driver seat. Thanks to its low-floor design and wide sliding doors, passenger entry and exit are effortless. For wheelchair users, an electric ramp and a one-touch wheelchair fixing system are also provided as optional features, making it accessible for everyone.

Autonomous and Advanced Systems

The e-Palette supports “Level-2 autonomous driving,” meaning a driver is still required, but several driving functions are handled automatically. Toyota aims to introduce Level-4 autonomy by 2027, enabling a fully self-driving vehicle that requires no driver.

It is integrated with LiDAR, cameras, and ADK (Automated Driving Kit) sensors and hardware, ensuring enhanced safety and driving precision. The “Steer-by-Wire” technology offers reduced effort and greater control for the driver. A digital signage system, customisable as per customer requirements, provides information both inside and outside the vehicle.

Toyota’s Multipurpose Usage Design

Toyota has designed the e-Palette for multipurpose use. By day, it can function as a mobile store, food truck, or restaurant, while at night it can transform into a city bus or shuttle service.

Its cabin can also be equipped with large screens and sound systems, turning it into a mobile entertainment hub where passengers can enjoy movies, sports, or live performances. This multi-utility nature makes it especially significant for urban service sectors.

Charging and Power Supply

The e-Palette comes with a unique V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) feature, allowing it not only to charge itself but also to supply power to external devices and users during emergencies or power outages. This makes it valuable in disaster management and other critical situations.

Toyota e-Palette Price

In Japan, the e-Palette is priced at around 29 million yen (approximately ₹1.72 crore in India or USD 197,000). Buyers also benefit from government subsidies of up to 15.8 million yen (about ₹10.75 lakh), making ownership more accessible.

Currently, the vehicle is available in the Japanese market, with Toyota showcasing it at projects such as TOYOTA ARENA TOKYO and Woven City. The company has also confirmed that its fully autonomous Level-4 version will be introduced in 2027.

Future Direction: A Platform for Smart Urban Mobility

The Toyota e-Palette EV is part of a movement towards eco-friendly, technologically advanced, and multi-purpose mobility solutions. It not only ensures safe and convenient travel for passengers but also opens up new possibilities for business and entertainment.

Following its introduction in Japan, Toyota plans to expand this vehicle to other countries, aiming to make urban life smarter, cleaner, and more affordable.

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