Toyota Motor has launched a battery-powered version of its Pixis small van in Japan, as the world’s largest automaker looks to strengthen its zero-emission vehicle sales in its home market.

The Pixis BEV strengthens Toyota’s range of ‘Kei’ mini-commercial vehicles, as it looks to support “the daily mobility needs of businesses and working professionals. This model aims to fully meet customer needs by retaining its excellent usability, including large cargo capacity and effortless loading, while delivering powerful, smooth, and quiet driving performance.” 

The battery-powered Pixis was developed in collaboration with Suzuki and its small car subsidiary Daihatsu, combining their Kei car know-how with Toyota's electrification technologies. The vehicle is powered by Toyota’s ‘e-Smart Electric’ powertrain, featuring a 36.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack which provides a cruising range of 257 km, enough for a “full day of urban deliveries.”

The rear wheels are powered by Toyota’s eAxle, which integrates the drive motor, inverter and reduction gear, with a maximum output of 47 kW and peak torque of 126 Nm. 

Toyota pointed out that Kei vehicles account for around 60% of the total commercial vehicle fleet in Japan. Zero-emission vehicle penetration is minimal, however. Toyota sold just 4,227 BEVs in Japan last year, led by the bZ4X SUV.