Behind The Wheel: Toyota's RAV4-EV

Sept. 9, 1999
Toyota’s RAV4-EV -charges into the future the toyota rav4-ev is an electric version of the rav4 sport-utility vehicle.

Added September 9, 1999

Toyota’s RAV4-EV -
charges into the future

The toyota rav4-ev is an electric version of the rav4 sport-utility vehicle. it combines a quiet and powerful electric motor with a high-capacity battery pack. a maintenance-free permanent-magnet ac motor produces 50 kw of power (67 hp). the vehicle accelerates from 0-to-60 mph in 18 sec and its top speed is 79 mph. the motor drives the front wheels through a single speed transaxle and, for reverse, the motor switches phase and spins in the opposite direction.

The nickel-metal-hydride battery pack has 24 individual 12-V modules, producing 288 Vdc. Charging is through a conductive system developed jointly by General Motors and Toyota. The conductive charger lets most of the components be located in the charger rather than on the vehicle, reducing mass and complexity. Full charges take about 6 hr and are good for 126 miles. Front discs and rear drums with ABS provide the stopping power. Also, a regenerative system recharges the batteries when the vehicle is coasting or braking.

Standard equipment includes dual air bags, heated windshield, rear-window wiper and defogger, heated driver and front passenger seats, power mirrors, windows, and door locks, and a heat-pump air conditioner with timer and preheat/precool settings. Rear seat heaters, a heavy-duty heat pump, and traction control are optional.

Toyota has not yet determined the vehicle’s availability for sale to the general public. However, development is ongoing as the RAV4-EV is a source of knowledge for drivelines in the Toyota hybrid system, fuel-cell electric vehicle, and the e-com electric concept vehicle.

Sponsored Recommendations

NEW Low Profile, Ultra Compact Power Supplies

March 13, 2024
Learn more HERE about Altech's Power supplies!

Altech's Liquid Tight Strain Relifs Catalog

March 13, 2024
With experienced Product Engineers and Customer Service personnel, Altech provides solutions to your most pressing application challenges. All with one thought in mind - to ensure...

Industrial Straight-Through Cable Gland

March 13, 2024
Learn more about Altech's cable glands and all they have to offer for your needs!

All-In-One DC-UPS Power Solutions

March 13, 2024
Introducing the All-In-One DC-UPS, a versatile solution combining multiple functionalities in a single device. Serving as a power supply, battery charger, battery care module,...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!