Set to unveil its latest concepts at the 2023 Tokyo auto show, Toyota is gearing up to offer attendees a sneak peek at the EPU concept, signaling a potential shift in the design direction.
Boasting specific measurements that highlight its sleek yet robust build, the EPU, classified as a midsize electric truck, measures in at 199.6 inches for its total length, with a wheelbase spanning 131.9 inches, distinguishing it from the recently redesigned 2024 Tacoma with its larger proportions of 212.3 inches and 140.6 inches respectively.
While comprehensive details on the bed’s dimensions are currently under wraps, the adaptable design of the truck’s tailgate, equipped with a folding feature, promises the accommodation of larger cargo items, including dirt bikes or compact quads, without compromising on space.
In a bold departure from the norm, the EPU concept breaks away from the traditional body-on-frame design typically seen in larger trucks like the Tacoma, opting instead for the more streamlined and compact unibody design, mirroring the style embraced by Toyota’s bZ line of electric vehicles.
Reflecting the innovative spirit of the brand, the interior of the EPU features a distinctive yoke-style steering wheel, a characteristic that has been gradually finding its way into specific markets by both Toyota and Lexus. This unique steering wheel is meticulously engineered to seamlessly integrate with drive-by-wire steering systems, enabling effortless maneuvering with just one hand.
Toyota, amidst its many unveils at the Tokyo auto show, plans to debut an improved version of the yoke-style steering wheel concept, dubbed the Neo Steer. This new iteration features user-friendly flap paddles, akin to those on motorcycles, aiming to facilitate efficient vehicle operation for individuals with lower limb disabilities. This move underscores the brand’s dedication to inclusivity and accessibility.