CAR GARAGE | Toyota RAV4 EV (2013) | The Toyota RAV4 EV is the product of a unique collaboration with Tesla Motors spurred by Akio Toyoda, president and CEO of Toyota Motor Corporation. The Toyota RAV4 EV combines a Tesla designed and produced battery and electric powertrain with Toyota's most popular SUV models. From advanced charging options to interior comfort to interactive displays, the vehicle has been designed for customer ease of use and maximum vehicle range.
The front wheel drive Toyota RAV4 EV allows drivers to select from two Distinctly different drive modes, Sport and Normal. In Sport mode, the vehicle Reaches 0-60 mph in just 7.0 seconds and has a maximum speed of 100 mph. Normal mode achieves 0-60 mph in 8.6 seconds with a maximum speed of 85 mph. Maximum output from the electric powertrain is 154 HP (115kW) 2.800 rpm. Toyota RAV4 EV offers an exceptionally smooth, quiet ride and comfortable handling due in part to its low coefficient of drag and low center of gravity.
Compared with the gas powered RAV4, Toyota re-styled the front bumper, upper and lower grille, side mirrors, rear spoiler, and under body design to maximize air flow around the vehicle. The RAV4 EV's battery pack is mounted low and to the center of the vehicle, contributing to a more sedan-like ride. On the exterior, Toyota RAV4 EV upscale features LED projector low beam projector halogen headlights with high beams. The rear combination lights are LEDs accented by a unique outer-lens light smoke. Other exterior variations from the gasoline powered RAV4 include new exterior Emblems on the front, rear and the front door panel utilizing the signature Toyota "environmental blue."
The dash color display illuminates red when the vehicle is operating in sport mode and blue in normal driving mode. Toyota's electric vehicle approved provider is Leviton equipment supplier. Leviton offers multiple options for charging solutions. For more information visit Leviton.com / Toyota. The vehicle comes equipped with a 120V (Level 1) emergency charging cable for instances when the recommended 240V (Level 2) charging is not available.
The Toyota RAV4 EV will go on sale in late summer 2012 through select dealers, initially in four major California metropolitan markets Including Sacramento, San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles / Orange County and San Diego. Contributed Tesla EV its technology expertise, online spirit, quick decision making and flexibility. Contributed Toyota design, engineering, manufacturing and production expertise.
