NextFin news, Toyota Motor Corporation launched sales of its new electric vehicle, the e-Palette, on Monday, September 15, 2025, in Tokyo, Japan. The e-Palette is a battery electric vehicle (BEV) designed to accommodate up to 17 passengers and is equipped with a steer-by-wire system, marking a significant step in next-generation mobility solutions.
The vehicle will initially be introduced at the Toyota Arena Tokyo and Toyota Woven City, with plans to expand its use through collaborations with municipalities and dealerships. The e-Palette is intended not only as a means of transportation but also as a versatile platform for mobility services such as mobile stores and entertainment vehicles.
The e-Palette measures 4,950 mm in length, 2,080 mm in width, and 2,650 mm in height, featuring a boxy silhouette that maximizes interior space. It has a top speed of 80 km/h and is powered by a 72.82 kWh lithium-ion battery. The vehicle supports both rapid and standard charging and can supply power when stationary, serving as an emergency power source during disasters.
One of the key technological features is the steer-by-wire system, which replaces traditional mechanical steering with electronic controls, reducing driver effort and enhancing the driving experience. The vehicle also includes digital signage inside and outside, customizable by users to display information relevant to its use.
The e-Palette supports Level 2 automated driving systems and Toyota aims to introduce Level 4 automated driving capabilities by fiscal year 2027. The vehicle integrates an Automated Driving Kit (ADK) compatible with Toyota’s Vehicle Control Interface (VCI), ensuring robust and reliable automated driving functions.
Accessibility features include a low floor with height adjustment and an electric ramp to facilitate independent boarding and exiting for wheelchair users. Optional equipment such as one-touch wheelchair fastening devices is also available.
The manufacturer’s suggested retail price for the e-Palette is 29 million yen (approximately $200,000), with environmental subsidies from the Japanese government covering about 15.83 million yen. Toyota plans to use the e-Palette to enhance urban mobility and provide new experiences through multi-use applications inspired by customer creativity.
According to Toyota, the e-Palette aims to contribute to a mobility society where freedom of movement is accessible to all and mobility has the power to move people both physically and emotionally.
Sources: MotorFan via Yahoo! Japan News, Electric Cars Report, Branding in Asia (September 16, 2025).
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