Toyota’s US unit has launched the RAV4 EV, developed with Tesla, at an electric vehicle event in Los Angeles. The revived all-electric SUV – Toyota offered an electric first generation RAV4 in the US about a decade ago – has an estimated driving range of about 100 miles (160km) and charging time of about six hours on a 240V/40A charger.

“The RAV4 EV’s driving performance, dynamics and cargo capacity are equal to or exceed the [petrol] powered RAV4 V6. Arriving fully-equipped [priced at] US$49,800, the RAV4 EV doesn’t compromise on performance, comfort or versatility,” the automaker claimed in a statement.

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The electric RAV4 is the result of collaboration with EV specialist Tesla Motors encouraged by Akio Toyoda, president and CEO of Toyota Motor. The model made its launch debut about 22 months after the joint project was announced.

The SUV combines a Tesla designed and produced battery and electric powertrain with Toyota’s most popular SUV model – built in Canada for North American markets. The Woodstock, Ontario-built RAV4s are larger than those sold elsewhere with unique seven-seat and petrol V6 options.

The front wheel drive RAV4 EV has sport and normal drive modes. In sport, it reaches 60mph in a claimed seven seconds and maximum speed is 100mph. Normal mode slows rest to 60 to 8.6 seconds and maximum speed to 85mph. Maximum power output is 154hp (115kW) at 2,800 rpm. 

Toyota claims the lowest coefficient of drag of any SUV – 0.30. The EV version has restyled front bumper, upper and lower grille, side mirrors, rear spoiler and an under body designed to maximise air flow. The battery pack is mounted low and to the centre, contributing to a more sedan-like ride.  

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Only three exterior colours will be offered: white pearl, blue pearl and silver metallic. The interior features a unique fabric with blue accent. 

An eight-inch capacitive touch screen displays navigation, telematics, and EV drive information and settings specific to the EV.

Supplier Leviton will offer multiple options for charging  – the shortest charge time of approximately six hours requires a custom 240v (standard US household supply is 120v), 40A, 9.6 kW station. Toyota ships the EV with a 120v ’emergency charging cable’ in case recommended 240v charging is not available. 

The RAV4 EV will be sold from late summer initially through specialist dealers in four major California metropolitan markets including Sacramento, San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles/Orange County and San Diego. Sales volume is forecast at about 2,600 units over the next three years. The battery warranty is eight years or 100,000 miles.

“We believe that the RAV4 EV will attract sophisticated early technology adopters, much like the first-generation Prius,” top Toyota US executive Bob Carter said. “It’s designed for consumers who prioritise the environment and appreciate performance. We look forward to seeing how the market responds.”