This is the new Toyota Corolla Commercial hybrid electric van and the order books have now opened.
Toyota says this is the first full hybrid self-charging electric van in the UK.
The latest model will now extend the range of light commercial vehicles from Toyota Professional.
Customers who want a commercial vehicle that is flexible
The firm says the van will be popular with customers who want a commercial vehicle that is flexible enough to cover high mileages and long distances in comfort, and yet deliver low CO2 emissions.
The power comes from a 1.8-litre hybrid system so the van will run in EV mode using electric power and will switch automatically to EV running whenever driving conditions and the battery charge permit.
Toyota says this is the best way to maximise emissions and fuel efficiency.
Developed by Toyota at its Burnaston plant
The van has been developed by Toyota at its Burnaston plant in Derbyshire – which is home to the Corolla Touring Sports and hatchback.
It’s an adaption of the Corolla Touring Sports wagon with the rear seats taken out and then replaced with a lined, spacious and accessible load area.
The dimensions of the van’s load area are 952 mm wide, 1,558 mm long and 682 mm high.
The load area is flat because the designers have looked at the multi-link rear suspension to ensure it doesn’t compromise with intruding components.
Corolla Commercial hybrid electric van’s running costs
One of the big attractions will be for the Corolla Commercial hybrid electric van’s running costs; Toyota says that fuel economy will be between 55 and 63 mpg, with emissions of 102g/km.
The provisional towing capacity figure is 750 kg (braked).
The new van will cost £26,495 OTR and will come with a three-year new vehicle warranty, and it will also be covered with the Toyota Relax warranty of up to 100,000 miles or 10 years for free.
And since this van is part of the Toyota Professional range, it also comes with five years of roadside assistance and a guaranteed service appointment within seven days.
Should the target not be met, then customers will enjoy 50% discount on servicing labour costs.
Active driver and safety assistance systems
This is also a safe van with the firm’s ‘Safety Sense’ active driver and safety assistance systems that include lane keeping assist and adaptive cruise control.
Other features include a full metal bulkhead, smartphone integration and an 8.0-inch multimedia display.
There are also heated and power adjustable door mirrors, height adjustable seats, automatic headlights, a reversing camera and dual-zone air-conditioning.