Toyota's Delightfully Quirky Kayoibako Is A Highly Versatile All-Electric Van

Oct. 17, 2023 3:49 PM ET byJarryd Neves Concept /9日评论

The boxy concept will make its public debut at the Japan Mobility Show.

Ahead of the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, Toyota unveiled another concept it will showcase at the upcoming event. This quirky little fellow is the Kayoibako, an all-electric van that will cater to many customers thanks to its utilitarian and spacious yet compact design.

Inspiration for the Kayoibako came from the need for an affordable and practical vehicle that has "ultra-expandable" interior packaging that can suit numerous needs, from private to business use. Toyota says the battery-powered van can "support a diverse range of applications," such as last-mile logistics.

For example, the Kayoibako would be the perfect emissions-free delivery vehicle in a crowded city like Toyko. But this isn't a one-trick panel van. Add some shelves in the back, and it can moonlight as a mobile shop. Need to transport friends and family? Add some seats in the rear, and you have a perfectly capable minivan.

年代ure, at 157 inches long, it won't be as spacious as the family年代ienna. But the compact dimensions (70.5 inches wide, 73 inches tall) make it the perfect multi-purpose vehicle for congested urban areas. The 110.2-inch wheelbase is only 10.3 inches shorter than the significantly longer Sienna. Think of the Kayoibako as a Swiss army knife, and you've got the idea Toyota was going for.

For wheelchair users, converting a van or car can be a costly affair. However, the Kayoibako's clever design provides mobility for all, with easier access for drivers and passengers with different needs.

The little electric van will be available with software and hardware that can be customized according to its specific use. Toyota says the concept - if it ever reaches production - will function as part ofsmart grids and intelligent social systems.

The word 'kayoibako' directly translates to "returnable box." As Toyota explains, the term refers to the configurable shipping containers transporting components between facilities. This unique process eliminates unnecessary waste and can ferry parts and products of varying sizes - much like the concept seen here.

Regarding design, the Kayoibakoreminds us of the Canoo EV, albeit smaller and boxier. The small windscreen is supplemented with an additional glass panel on the front end, where Toyota has cleverly incorporated the headlights and badging. While the side rear windows are rather slim, glass roof panels allow natural light to flow into the cabin.

Based on the images supplied by Toyota, there are plans to create a sporty version with large-diameter wheels, low-profile tires, and massive brakes. Perhaps the Kayoibako will receive the GR treatment when it arrives, orModellistawill cook up some style-enhancing bits for the exterior.

The interior is minimalist in execution, with a digital interface that spans the width of the fascia. Controls include a yoke-style steering wheel and a touchscreen, and there's obviously a seat for the driver. We're sure additional seats can be added depending on the user's needs.

Toyota hasn't shared further details, so we're unsure of crucial information like battery size, charging times, performance, and efficiency. But based on the automaker's latest announcement, the Kayoibako may receive Toyota'sadvanced solid-state batteries. The company recently announced this game-changing tech will be ready by 2026 and is promising 600 miles of range from 2027.

If the Kayoibako isn't your cup of tea, Toyota also plans on发布两个表面c conceptsat the Japan Mobility Show, one of which is a sports car. At the same time, luxury arm Lexus intends to stun the crowdswith a gorgeous electric sedan.