Toyota will launch its first hybrid van in the UK when it gives the Corolla Commercial van its world premiere at the CV Show.
The new van model will be based on the Corolla Touring Sports 1.8 Hybrid car and be built at the Toyota plant at Burnaston near Derby, the centre for Corolla European production.
The Corolla van is due to go on sale in summer 2022, initially in the UK. Launch models will be available in a single version and the specification will be announced closer to when the order books are opened, which is expected later this year. If it follows the model set by the Proace Electric van, Icon would be the single specification.
To convert the Corolla into a van, the rear seats are removed and replaced with a load platform. Weights have yet to be confirmed, but based on the passenger model, gross payload will probably be in the 405kg-535kg region.
Power will come from the Corolla’s 1.8-litre hybrid powertrain, with a petrol engine combined with an electric motor to produce 120hp at 5,200rpm and 142Nm of torque between 3,600rpm and 4,000rpm. The electric motor will produce 71hp and 163Nm of torque alone. The power for the motor is stored in a rechargeable Nickel-metal hydride battery that is recharged from regenerative braking. Homologation is not yet complete, but Toyota is reckoning on fuel consumption between 55.3mpg and 62.7mpg (WLTP combined) with corresponding CO2 emissions of 115g/km. The hybrid system offers short-range pure electric power in EV mode.
Mark Roden, Toyota (GB) operations director, said: “With its full hybrid powertrain, Corolla Commercial will give customers an exceptionally versatile vehicle that can be driven with zero emissions and fuel consumption during short urban runs, while also giving the freedom to make longer journeys without the need for battery recharging. Toyota’s hybrid technology has well-proven reliability and delivers day-to-day savings on running costs with its fuel efficiency. It’s a unique addition to the Toyota Professional range and the wider LCV market and we’re confident will attract strong interest.”
