In Thailand, the launch of the Hilux Travo e, a new electric pickup, follows Toyota's plan established over two years ago. This year’s latest electric vehicles introduced by Toyota include the bZ4X Travo e and the 2026 RZ Minorchange. Meanwhile, in Europe, the new Urban Cruiser compact electric crossover has been unveiled. This marks a significant step in expanding Toyota’s electric vehicle range to cover all major SUV market segments in Europe and Asia. The 2026 Urban Cruiser presents a clean energy vehicle, building on the improved bZ4X with extended driving range. It also prepares for the arrival of the Toyota C-HR+, bZ4X Touring, and the new Thai-assembled Hilux BEV models entering the European market, all set for 2026.
The Toyota Urban Cruiser complements the Yaris Cross hybrid, offering customers a zero-emission or low-CO2 powertrain option that suits their needs. This helps reduce carbon dioxide emissions in line with Toyota’s long-standing commitment to carbon neutrality.
Urban CruiserIt is available in three versions: a single-motor front-wheel-drive (FWD) with 144 horsepower and a 49 kWh battery; a single-motor FWD with 174 horsepower; and a dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) with 184 horsepower. The latter two have slightly larger 61 kWh batteries. According to WLTP combined data, the FWD 49 kWh version offers up to 344 km range; the FWD 61 kWh extends to 426 km; and the top AWD model reaches 396 km per full charge. These ranges comfortably cover city driving distances under 350 kilometers.
The battery uses lithium iron phosphate (LFP) technology, which provides durability and cost advantages. A thermal management system reduces battery temperature to ensure optimal conditions for driving and power delivery. The battery comes with a warranty and Toyota’s battery care program. The brand expects the battery capacity to retain at least 70% over 10 years or 1,000,000 km, subject to annual performance checks.
The dual-motor Urban Cruiser focuses on all-wheel-drive capability, employing an additional electric motor on the rear axle. This enhances stability, traction, and driver confidence on uneven or slippery surfaces.
The interior space is reasonably generous. For a small SUV, maximizing usable space was a top priority in developing the Urban Cruiser. The cabin and cargo area have been optimized with smart design and arrangement of the electric drive components. A 2,700 mm wheelbase creates an open interior. The rear seats slide and fold separately, allowing flexible passenger or cargo configurations nearly comparable to larger SUVs.
Multimedia functions are easily accessible via an integrated instrument cluster and media display unit. Inside connectivity includes front and rear USB-C ports and wireless smartphone connection. The MyToyota app controls vehicle functions and remotely monitors data such as charging schedules, battery status, and pre-conditioning the climate system before departure.
The BEV platform emphasizes interior space and driving range. The vehicle’s center of gravity benefits from integrating the battery into the exterior design structure to optimize aerodynamics, reduce noise, and minimize vibrations. The Urban Cruiser is built on a BEV platform with no major cross beams under the floor to accommodate the battery pack. The battery is protected against collision damage by external frames and side mounts that absorb energy. The rear floor is reinforced to handle impacts and modified to support the motor and rear axle in AWD versions.
The body uses high-tensile steel in critical areas. Placing the battery beneath the floor lowers the center of gravity. Aerodynamics are finely tuned to reduce energy consumption and extend driving range. An aerodynamic underbody panel covers the entire underside, including front and rear sections. The battery’s flat and low profile aids smooth airflow beneath the vehicle.
Noise control and vibration reduction are addressed despite the absence of engine sound. Road noise is dampened by the battery, which forms a structural part of the vehicle. Drive, tire, and wind noise are reduced using sound barriers around the car and acoustic windshields. Front electric axle mounts and rear electric axle covers help minimize noise and vibrations.
The compact, efficient eAxle system integrates the electric motor, inverter, and reduction gear into a single unit to save space. The small motor and long drive shaft keep the drivetrain compact without sacrificing torque or space. The 49 kWh battery is exclusive to the front-wheel-drive model, consisting of 96 cells, delivering a maximum output of 106 kW (144 horsepower DIN) and 193 Nm torque. The combined WLTP driving range is 344 km.
The mid-range and top models feature a 61 kWh battery with 120 cells. The front-wheel-drive version produces 128 kW (174 horsepower DIN) and 193 Nm torque, with a driving range of 426 km.
The all-wheel-drive model delivers 135 kW (184 horsepower DIN) and 307 Nm torque, with a driving range of 395 km.
Charging performance and capabilities
DC fast charging from 10% to 80% takes approximately 45 minutes. Using an AC three-phase 11 kW power source, charging from 15% to 100% takes about six hours, while single-phase AC 7 kW charging requires around 9.5 hours.
The vehicle features a “My Room” charging mode that allows use of the air conditioning and audio system while waiting inside the car during charging.
Toyota’s confidence in battery quality is reflected in a warranty guaranteeing at least 70% capacity retention over 10 years, covering 8 years or 160,000 km. The battery care program lasts up to 10 years or 1 million kilometers to ensure customer assurance in the EU.
The all-new Toyota Urban Cruiser Electric 2026 is not planned for sale in Thailand, as it is produced and sold exclusively in Europe.