Toyota E-Palette: Electric Pod Arrives, But Not Fully Autonomous
Remember the Toyota E-Palette concept unveiled at CES in 2018? The futuristic, all-electric pod promised a revolution in autonomous mobility, adaptable to diverse needs throughout the day. While it even served as a shuttle for athletes during the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, the production model, finally available after seven years, comes with a few asterisks.
Initially envisioned as a fully self-driving vehicle, the E-Palette now requires a driver, equipped with Level 2 driver-assistance technology, similar to many modern cars. True autonomy, at Level 4, is planned as a future upgrade, requiring additional hardware, software, cameras, lidar, and sensors, slated for release around 2027.
Powering the E-Palette is a 72.8-kWh battery pack paired with a single 201-hp electric motor, producing 196 lb-ft of torque. Weighing in at 6,500 pounds, this boxy vehicle offers a spacious interior capable of accommodating up to 17 passengers. It has a top speed of about 50 mph and an estimated range of 155 miles based on the WLTC standard. Charging is supported at up to 90 kW DC fast-charging, reaching 80 percent in approximately 40 minutes. AC charging at home, however, will take around 12 hours, owing to the vehicle's 6-kW charging limit.
The E-Palette incorporates steer-by-wire technology, similar to the Tesla Cybertruck, with variable steering ratios and no mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the front wheels. Measuring 194.9 inches long, 81.9 inches wide, and 104.3 inches tall, the E-Palette has similar dimensions to a full-size high-roof cargo van.
Toyota envisions the E-Palette serving many functions. It could operate as a shuttle bus in the morning, transform into a mobile food truck during lunch, and provide mobile nighttime entertainment. And with an onboard external power hookup, even camping trips are possible.
Equipped with digital signage, it can display advertisements, business logos, or other messages. Safe-exit assistance, along with a cabin monitoring system, ensures safe door operation. An extending ramp facilitates easy entry and exit for cargo, strollers, and wheelchair users. The ramp's accessibility is further enhanced by the E-Palette's low floor height of 14.6 inches, which can be lowered to 10.6 inches with the optional adjustable height suspension.
However, the E-Palette is currently available only in Japan. Its price is approximately $200,000 before incentives, however, it qualifies for a Commercial Vehicle Electrification subsidy of approximately $108,000. While currently built to order directly by Toyota, it will eventually be available through traditional dealerships.
