Suzuki, Toyota and Daihatsu together for a mini electric van

Suzuki, Daihatsu and Toyota announced their intention to produce three new prototypes of battery-electric vehicles based on minivans and equipped with a jointly developed BEV system. The official presentation took place during an exhibition event scheduled for 18-21 May 2023. The event was organised by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA) in conjunction with the G7 summit in Hiroshima.

The project seemed to have been abandoned due to the various vicissitudes that had mainly affected the Daihatsu side. Now, official sources from the three brands are pointing to fiscal year 2025 as the 'good' year for the vehicles to come to light. In the pool of model names, the latest news should confirm Daihatsu Hijet Cargo, Suzuky Every and Toyota Pixis Van.

Built by Dahiatsu, Toyota technology and Suzuki design

The three manufacturers have therefore joined forces to develop an electric drive system suitable for light commercial vehicles, combining Suzuki and Daihatsu's experience in building small cars (so-called kei cars) with Toyota's electrification technology. Daihatsu, in particular, will be responsible for the physical construction of the vehicles.

Toyota Pixis Cargo

Photo by: Toyota

Suzuki, Daihatsu and Toyota have decided to target the launch of their mini electric vans in fiscal 2025. This joint commitment aims to provide sustainable transport vehicles that meet the needs of customers in the delivery sector and contribute to efforts to achieve carbon neutrality.

Daihatsu Hijet Cargo

Photo by: Toyota

Commercial Japan Partnership Technologies Corporation (CJPT) participated in the planning to achieve optimal specifications for efficient last-mile logistics. The expected range per charge is approximately 200 km, and development is currently underway with the aim of creating a vehicle that fully meets the needs of customers in the delivery sector.

Commercial Japan Partnership Technologies Corporation (CJPT) has been involved in the design to ensure optimal specifications for efficient last-mile logistics. The expected range per charge is approximately 200 km (124 miles), and development is underway to create a vehicle that fully meets the needs of delivery customers.

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