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Toyota has announced the launch of the Alphard and Vellfire Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) models in Japan, marking the country’s first minivan PHEVs. Sales for the PHEV variants will begin on January 31, 2025, while updated gasoline and hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) models will hit the market on January 7, 2025. These redesigned vehicles focus on enhancing comfort, quietness, and environmental performance, catering to diverse customer needs ranging from family use to chauffeured services.
Key Highlights
- PHEV Features: The Alphard and Vellfire PHEVs offer a BEV-mode driving range of 73 km using their large-capacity lithium-ion batteries, reducing noise and vibration while providing environmental benefits.
- Enhanced Comfort: Features include quiet operation suitable for chauffeured services, air conditioning without starting the engine, and a smooth ride with reduced road and engine noise.
- Improved Performance: Equipped with a 2.5-liter plug-in hybrid system, the PHEVs deliver a maximum output of 225 kW (306 PS) and hybrid fuel economy of 16.7 km/L.
- Charging and Utility: Rapid charging achieves 80% capacity in 38 minutes, and the models support Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) functionality, providing electricity during blackouts or emergencies.
Pursuit of Comfortable Mobility
The Alphard and Vellfire, fully redesigned in June 2023, prioritize “the joy of comfortable mobility” by delivering enhanced riding experiences for drivers and passengers. Their low center of gravity, achieved by battery placement under the floor, ensures stability and reduced vibrations. The Smooth Stop control system minimizes sudden nose-dives during deceleration, adding to passenger comfort.
Upgraded Gasoline and HEV Models
The gasoline and HEV models also receive notable updates:
- New Features: Standard Digital Inner Mirrors with built-in front and rear dash cams.
- Premium Options: JBL sound systems with 15 speakers and a 14-inch rear-seat entertainment system in select grades.
- Expanded Choices: New exterior colors and seating configurations, including an eight-seater HEV Alphard X grade.
Advanced Charging and Power Supply
The PHEVs include My Room Mode, allowing users to operate air conditioning and audio systems without running the engine. Additionally, the external power supply mode supports outdoor and emergency uses, delivering up to 1,500W of electricity.
Future Availability
The Alphard and Vellfire models will also be offered through the KINTO subscription service starting January 9, 2025, catering to both individual and corporate users. A software upgrade will become available in spring 2025, adding a unique meter design for PHEV models.
Toyota continues to emphasize its multi-pathway approach to carbon neutrality, expanding electrified vehicle offerings to meet diverse market needs.
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