Toyota Urban Cruiser Design Preview
With the new Urban Cruiser, Toyota is driving forward the development of its battery-electric model range and consolidating its presence in the fast-growing compact B-SUV segment. In keeping with Toyota's customer-centric approach, the range includes two battery options with different capacities to meet diverse customer range and performance requirements. Three variants will be available at launch: a front-wheel drive version with a 49 kWh battery, and front- and all-wheel drive versions with a 61 kWh battery. In the most powerful version, the Urban Cruiser achieves a combined WLTP range of up to 426 kilometers. Both batteries use lithium iron phosphate technology, which is characterized by its durability and cost-effectiveness. A thermal management system ensures that the battery temperature always remains within the optimal range – even in extreme weather conditions. The Urban Cruiser is a true SUV – optionally available with electric all-wheel drive, which provides a safe, confident driving experience on slippery surfaces. Robust design, intelligent packaging, and compact drive components create a spacious interior with a sliding rear seat and high variability. The long wheelbase of 2,700 mm provides plenty of space and flexibility, reminiscent of much larger models. All multimedia functions are digitally integrated, including a central touchscreen and digital instrument display. Connectivity is provided via USB ports in the front and rear, as well as wireless smartphone integration. The MyToyota app also enables remote control of charging functions and status queries.
2025-06-17T05:16:36Z
Electric vehicles in Pakistan – trends and developments
Electric Vehicles in Pakistan: A Market in Transition Pakistan is witnessing a slow but steady shift towards electric mobility. Currently, the majority of EVs in the country are luxury imports from China, with brands like BYDand MG Motors Pakistan catering to the high-income segment. These vehicles, priced well above the reach of the average consumer, serve more as status symbols than practical transportation options. Despite the enthusiasm for EV technology, the market remains in its infancy, with only a handful of electric cars visible on Pakistani roads. Affordability and infrastructure challenges continue to be major hurdles. Government Ambitions and Challenges in EV Adoption Recognizing the urgency of addressing air pollution and reducing fossil fuel dependency, Pakistan’s government has set ambitious targets for EV adoption. By 2030, policymakers aim for 30% of new vehicle sales to be electric, rising to 90% by 2040. However, a key challenge lies in the fact that fewer than one in forty Pakistanis owns a car, with motorcycles and scooters being the dominant mode of transport. This reality has led to growing interest in electrifying two-wheelers, especially given the rising cost of fuel imports. While some progress has been made—such as the introduction of locally manufactured electric rickshaws—the adoption rate remains low, with only 1% of new vehicle registrations being electric. The Road Ahead for Electromobility in Pakistan The future of EVs in Pakistan depends on infrastructure improvements and financial incentives. The country’s reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation means that electrification must go hand-in-hand with renewable energy expansion, particularly solar power. Investments in charging stations and local manufacturing will be crucial in making EVs more accessible. With new policies encouraging carbon credit trading, international funding may play a role in accelerating Pakistan’s transition to sustainable mobility. The road is long, but early developments suggest that Pakistan is positioning itself for a greener future. This video summary was created by AI from the original DW script. It was edited by a journalist before publication.
2025-06-19T08:40:44Z
