Electric pickup trucks have been making waves in the automotive industry lately, but one thing they all have in common is their sheer size. The smallest contender on the scene, the Rivian R1T, isn’t exactly compact or budget-friendly. That’s precisely why our automotive dreams are set on seeing the Toyota EPU get the green light for production.
Recently unveiled at the Tokyo Show, the Toyota EPU (presumably short for Electric Pick Up) stands out with its clean and straightforward design. Its widening stance towards the bottom adds a touch of robustness, while the contrast roof and upswept rear windows bring a dash of visual flair. The best part? It appears ready for production with minimal modifications.
What truly sets the Toyota EPU apart is its size. Measuring in at 199.6 inches in length, it’s almost a perfect match for the Ford Maverick. The EPU is about an inch lower in height and a couple of inches wider, which seems intentional given its unibody, quad-cab configuration. With an extra 10 inches of wheelbase, there’s the potential for more interior space, too.
Toyota’s ability to maximize the wheelbase can be attributed to the electric nature of the EPU. While specific specs remain undisclosed, electric powertrains offer unparalleled flexibility in vehicle design. Speaking of flexibility, the EPU comes with some nifty features. The rear tailgate can fold in half when lowered, effectively extending the bed while providing a backstop to prevent items from spilling out. Toyota has also hinted at a mid-gate function, similar to the Chevy Silverado EV, though it’s unclear if the rear window can be removed for a full pass-through.
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Moving inside, the interior maintains a practical and utilitarian design. The dashboard is configured to serve as a divided shelf for storing various odds and ends, showcasing an intriguing mix of materials in blocky shapes. The inclusion of a steering yoke adds a unique touch, and the shifter and other drive controls are neatly situated between two floating screens.
With all these exciting features and a compact size, the Toyota EPU promises to be a game-changer in the world of electric pickups. It’s the compact, affordable electric pickup we’ve all been eagerly waiting for.
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