The new Toyota RAV4 Plug-in has its spot at the apex of the RAV4 territory and as the lead of Toyota's mixture model line-up. It is a vehicle that conveys an unparalleled blend of intensity and ecological effectiveness in its group.
Its presentation reinforces and expands the allure of the RAV4, the model which made the market for recreational SUVs and which has amassed in excess of 10 million overall deals.
Toyota has applied its driving cross breed innovation skill to make the Toyota RAV4 Plug-in, delivering a vehicle that isn't just amazing, yet which likewise beats every one of its adversaries regarding low discharges and mileage. The model's last homologation information demonstrates 22 g/m CO2 and 1.0 l/100km (Combined WLTP cycle).
RAV4 works as a bona fide electric vehicle: EV running is its default mode, wherein it can cover around up to 98 km in metropolitan driving (City WLTP cycle) on a full battery charge, easily more than the normal European day by day drive, and arrive at paces of 135 km/h, with no intercession from the mixture powertrain. At the point when additional motor force is required, the ability of the 2.5-liter Dynamic Force powerplant guarantees productivity remains class-driving. Battery charging is basic and safe, and can be refined in 2.5 hours utilizing a 230 V/32 An association. As standard, proprietors can utilize the MyT application to timetable and screen battery charging distantly and furthermore work the cooling framework to heat up or cool the lodge before setting off.Beyond its complex and viable powertrain innovation, Toyota RAV4 Plug-in holds all the characteristics that have made the fifth era RAV4 so effective since its dispatch in late 2018. This incorporates the dynamic advantages of the low focus of gravity and high body inflexibility intrinsic in the Toyota GA-K vehicle stage. It additionally comes as standard with AWD-I astute all-wheel drive.
The RAV4 Plug-in is a reciprocal model to the RAV4 Hybrid, uniting Toyota's zap program.
Execution AND TECHNOLOGY
With the new RAV4 Plug-in, Toyota has made a vehicle with a double DNA: one that has solid and certifiable EV capacities however which can likewise work with profoundly productive crossover electric force.
For the Prius Plug-in, the attention was on broadening the EV driving reach by utilizing a bigger high-voltage battery with the set up 53 kW electric engine from the half breed model. On the other hand, RAV4 utilizes an all the more impressive engine along with a bigger battery and inverter to pick up essentially more drive power just as the capacity to cover a lot more prominent separations and travel at high speeds in EV mode.
Greatest yield for the full powertrain, including the 2.5-liter Dynamic Force mixture motor, is 306 DIN hp/225 kW - 38% more than the RAV4 Hybrid - empowering 0-100 km/h quickening in 6.0 seconds - 2.1 seconds quicker than the cross breed. Drivability is improved, for instance with half more force accessible at 60 km/h.
In EV mode, execution is equivalent to a 2.0-liter petroleum model, with 0-100 km/h increasing speed in 10 seconds.
2.5-liter Dynamic Force motor
Toyota RAV4 Plug-in's cross breed motor is a higher yield form of the 2.5-liter Dynamic Force unit highlighted in the half breed model, profiting by the higher electric capacity to restore more force and an improved force bend.
The 2,487 cm3, four-chamber, 16-valve DOHC Atkinson cycle powerplant highlights Dual VVT-I keen admission (electrically controlled) and exhaust valve timing and D-4S direct/backhanded fuel infusion with multi-gap injectors. The long, 103.4 mm stroke and the high 14.0:1 pressure proportion help increase higher yield and eco-friendliness. Greatest intensity of 185 DIN hp/136 kW is conveyed at 6,000 rpm contrasted with RAV4 Hybrid's 178 DIN hp/131 kW at 5,700 rpm.
The crossover framework works a programmed warm-up stage to help secure the petroleum motor against inordinate wear that may happen in the event that it is approached to make ordinary virus begins when the vehicle is running at motorway speeds. Force is restricted, at that point dynamically expanded. The driver is made aware of the warm-up status by the motor symbol indicating blue in the half and half energy stream show.
New cross breed framework
The new cross breed framework conveys a class-driving mix of intensity and effectiveness. With greatest yield of 306 DIN hp/225 kW, the RAV4 Plug-in is the most remarkable model in the RAV4 territory and Toyota's most impressive half breed. Simultaneously, its proficiency is amazing, with huge enhancements for the levels accomplished by the RAV4 Hybrid.
It is additionally novel in its group in offering a genuine EV drive. Actually, EV mode is the default: the cross breed motor won't intercede, giving the driver the opportunity to cover around 75 km (WLTP cycle) and accomplish rates of up to 135 km/h - reasonable for expressway driving - with zero fuel utilization and zero tailpipe discharges. Furthermore, under City WLTP cycle driving, the EV range can arrive at 98 km.
Depending of the battery condition of charge (SOC), the vehicle will naturally change to exceptionally effective half breed activity. This is a key advantage got from putting together the module framework with respect to Toyota's profoundly proficient half and half innovation.
Mixture framework updates
Toyota has built up an all the more impressive half breed framework for the RAV4 Plug-in, utilizing the minimized and lightweight segments of the fourth era mixture innovation included in the RAV Hybrid, with itemized changes to enhance execution with regards to a module cross breed vehicle.
The battery is situated underneath the vehicle floor, which helps bring down the focal point of gravity and keeps away from interruption in the heap space or lodge. The cells are cooled utilizing refrigerant from the vehicle's cooling framework, which likewise keeps up the vehicle's EV execution.
There is a particular change to the force control unit, as well. Including a lift converter has expanded the current so more force can be drawn from the high-voltage battery. The DC-DC converter has been made littler, calmer and more effective, and has better cooling execution. It is situated underneath the back sets, occupying less lodge room.
The front electric engine produces 134 kW (contrasted with 88 kW in RAV4 Hybrid); the back engine's yield is unaltered at 40 kW. With expanded help from the electric engine, the cross breed motor can run at low fires up. This adds to Toyota RAV4 Plug-in's boss commotion and vibration levels (further subtleties underneath).
Drive modes
The RAV4 Plug-in has four distinctive working modes for its module half and half framework:
EV (electric vehicle) mode - the default mode
HV (half breed vehicle) mode
Auto HV/EV mode
Charging mode
It works as a matter of course as an electric vehicle (EV), running in EV need mode, and will keep on running absolutely on its electric force, even with hard utilization of the quickening agent pedal. At the point when the restriction of EV driving extent is reached in EV mode, the vehicle naturally changes to HV mode.
The driver has the adaptability of utilizing HV mode to begin their excursion, changing to EV heading to expand effectiveness when fundamental, for instance, when entering a metropolitan zone.
In Auto EV/HV mode, the cross breed framework will consequently become an integral factor when additional force is required, for instance under sharp, abrupt increasing speed, EV mode being reestablished following.
Battery charging mode reestablishes the degree of battery charge when the level is excessively low for EV activity, drawing power age by the motor.
The consecutive shiftmatic framework permits the driver to utilize the oar shifts on the directing wheel to pick up motor slowing down. Further help is given by Deceleration Assist Control which naturally increment drive engine deceleration force when downhill slowing down is identified. This makes for a smoother drive with less utilization of the brakes.
Increasing speed execution
The intensity of the module half and half framework conveys a solid sentiment of speeding up when driving in HV mode or auto EV/HV mode. The motor's responsiveness and the higher yield from the high-voltage battery give speedy execution, with nothing to 100 km/h canvassed in only six seconds.
The control framework decides if the driver needs a smooth, straight speed up, or prompt, top reaction. In Sport mode, the non-straight execution gives a sentiment of more prompt reaction to expand the degree of driving delight.
Commotion, vibration and quietness
Various measures have been taken to decrease commotion and vibration levels experienced in the lodge and accomplish calm execution from the module cross breed framework.
For instance, the transaxle is planned so there is less reverberation from the riggings. The apparatuses themselves have cleaned tooth surfaces for smoother and calmer activity. A damper framework diminishes stun and clatter on fire up, just as changes in force in steady speed driving.
As clarified in the Performance and Technology segment above, there is less commotion from the cross breed motor as it can run at lower fires up contrasted with the RAV4 Hybrid. Clamor and vibration are likewise smothered by extra protection in the wing linings and front columns and the utilization of acoustic glass for the windscreen and front side windows.
The RAV4 Plug-in's air conditioning system operates with efficiency while still ensuring cabin comfort, even when the vehicle is in EV mode.
It uses a pump that draws thermal energy from the air outside the car to heat the cabin, so running the air conditioning has less impact on the car's EV driving range.
The system's efficient design includes S-FLOW control which directs heating and ventilation only to seats which are occupied - driver, front passenger and the rear seats. Performance is adjusted according to the temperature selected, the ambient temperature, cabin temperature and the amount of sunlight. Power is also saved with an "off" setting for the dehumidifier, disabling the function when it would have no effect on window misting, odours or cabin comfort.
DRIVING PLEASURE
Toyota RAV4 Plug-in's dynamic character builds on the essential strengths of its GA-K platform by taking advantage of an even lower centre of gravity.
The platform is already notable for the low centre of gravity it secures for the RAV4 Hybrid, but thanks to the lay-out of the powertrain and, in particular, the location of the high-voltage battery beneath the floor, the centre of gravity has been lowered. This strengthens the vehicle's handling and stability and adds to its fun-to-drive quality.
The GA-K platform also adds the benefits of light weight and high body rigidity, underpinning the RAV4's "confident and natural" drive. It takes uneven surfaces in its stride, communicating stability, and responds naturally to the driver's inputs.
The RAV4 Plug-in uses the same double wishbone rear suspension as the hybrid model, tuned for ride comfort. Because of the low centre of gravity and high body rigidity, the suspension does not have to be made stiffer to achieve the desired dynamic performance.
Intelligent electric all-wheel drive
All versions of the RAV4 Plug-in are equipped with AWD-i, Toyota's intelligent electric all-wheel drive system, as featured on the RAV4 Hybrid. Compact and lightweight, AWD-i uses a 40 kW electric motor on the rear axle, giving the car the all-wheel drive performance expected of an SUV, but with superior fuel efficiency compared to a mechanical system. It operates equally when the vehicle is in its default EV mode, or when running in HV mode, with support when required from the hybrid engine.
The front/rear torque ratio is automatically optimised according to driving conditions, giving better handling and stability in slippery conditions and off-road driving, keeping the plug-in hybrid faithful to the RAV4's essential "drive on any road" character.
Trail Mode
Toyota RAV4 Plug-in reinforces its all-wheel drive performance with Trail Mode, an automatic locking system for the limited-slip differential that the driver can engage using a dashboard control. This ensures the best possible grip on slippery and loose surfaces and can help the driver negotiate more challenging off-road conditions. For example, if one wheel loses contact with the ground, Trail Mode will brake the spinning wheel and direct drive torque to the grounded wheel to gain traction, while also automatically adjusting the throttle response and transmission shift pattern.
Drive modes
The driver can switch between NORMAL, ECO and SPORT driving modes, adjusting throttle performance to suit their preference, or the driving conditions (SPORT mode adapts both the car's acceleration and deceleration). This selection can be made in any of the four hybrid modes, as detailed in the Performance and Technology chapter above.
DESIGN AND PACKAGING
Toyota has ensured that the RAV4 Plug-in's new hybrid system is packaged without compromising comfort, space and utility in both the cabin and the load compartment.
The new model shares the same external dimensions as the RAV4 Hybrid and its powertrain is designed so that it does not intrude into the cabin. There is just a small decrease in the load space capacity, with the floor being raised by 35 mm. At 520 litres, the volume remains competitive with other models in the segment.
The boot floor is flat and has an additional storage space for the charging cable beneath the deck board. The load surface remains flat when the rear seats (divided 60:40) are folded, and a flush joint with the rear finish plate makes it easy to slide heavy items into place.
With no awkward intrusions in the side of the load area, the space is practical for carrying large items. There is room for four golf bags or two 77-litre suitcases. Towing capacity is a maximum 1.5 tonnes with a braked trailer, and there is no reduction in the size of the fuel tank, its 55-litre capacity giving the vehicle an exceptional cruising range.
Exterior design
Externally, only a few small details distinguish the RAV4 Plug-in from its hybrid sibling, reflecting its "refined sports" character. There is a metal-look finish to the lower front moulding and rear garnish above the licence plate, dark chrome detailing in the headlight units and a dark plating finish for the front grille. The rear skid plate is painted black. The charging point is concealed beneath a flap on the left-hand front wing.
Toyota RAV4 Plug-in can be fitted with larger, 19-inch wheels and larger tyres. Standard on Style grade, these have a five-double-spoke design with a contrast bright machined and black finish. The Mid grade's 18-inch rims have a machined/dark grey five-spoke design.
The introduction of the plug-in model introduces a new body colour to the RAV4 Range, Emotional Red.
Interior design
The spacious cabin is fitted with sports seats, upholstered in dark grey cloth with contrast red stitching in the Mid grade model. The Style version has a striking two-tone red and dark grey combination of fabric and synthetic leather as standard, with the option of genuine leather with horizontal red quilting in the seatbacks and a contrast vertical red ribbon detail in the shoulder section.
The front seats have integrated heating and power adjustment and lumbar support for the driver's seat as standard. The rear seats are also heated and the front seat ventilation and power adjustment for the front passenger seat are standard on Style+ grade.
In the combimeter in the driver's instrument display, the water temperature indicator has been replaced with a battery level display. Specific plug-in hybrid vehicle content has also been added to the multi-information display.
In other respects, the quality and convenience of the fifth generation RAV4 is preserved, including excellent all-round vision for the driver. The GA-K platform allows for a low hip point on the driver's seat, contributing the sense of connection with vehicle and an engaging driving experience. A generous range of seat and steering wheel adjustment makes it easy for drivers to find just the right position at the wheel.
Access to the rear seats is made easy with wide-opening rear doors and a reduced distance between the hip point and sill. Spacious footwells and air vents add to the comfort.
Equipment features
The RAV4 Plug-in introduces new equipment features and options that meet the demands of today's customers for more sophisticated connectivity, comfort and convenience.
Notably, a 230 V/150 W power outlet is provided as standard. This can be used to power mobile devices, without having to worry about the impact on battery performance - for example running speakers for a tailgate party. Home electric appliances of 150 W or less can also be connected, for example in an emergency during a domestic power outage. There are also 12V sockets in the cabin and load space and Aux/USB sockets for connecting smartphones and music players.
Other standard features include the latest Toyota multimedia system, with smartphone integration using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, and illuminated power switches in the door panels. The key fob includes a remote control for the vehicle's air conditioning system, operated via the MyT app. Full details are given in the Connected Car chapter below.
The Style grade version of the RAV4 Plug-in has a nine-inch display audio mounted prominently on the centre console (an option for the Mid grade) and 19-inch alloy wheels. A colour head-up display is available for both model grades.
As standard, the new Toyota RAV4 Plug-in benefits from the latest generation Toyota Safety Sense active safety and driver assistance systems. Designed to reduce the risk of some of the most common accidents, they alert the driver to hazards and, if necessary, provide braking and steering support to help avoid an impact, or reduce the severity if a collision is unavoidable.
In addition to detecting vehicles on the road ahead, the Pre-Collision System (PCS) can also recognise pedestrians in both day and night-time driving, and cyclists during daylight. The Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) is also more sophisticated in its operation, working with the Road Sign Assist (RSA) to automatically reset vehicle speed in line with changes in the speed limit.
The combination of Lane Departure Alert and Lane Tracing Assist helps keep the RAV4 centred in its traffic lane, providing a sound alert or steering wheel vibration if it detects deviation without the turn indicators being used, then applying steering assistance if necessary to help return the vehicle to its correct path. Recognition and control performance have been improved so that assistance is also provided through gentle bends, as well as on straight highway sections. As well as lane markings on the road surface, Lane Departure Alert can also recognise road margins.
SAFE AND EFFICIENT CHARGING OPTIONS
Ease of charging is a key concern for any electric vehicle. Toyota RAV4 Plug-in provides safe and efficient options that allow a full battery recharge in just two-and-a-half hours.
The vehicle is equipped with an on-board fast-charger that can support up to 6.6 kW. without compromising the battery's durability. As standard, it is supplied with a 7.5 m Type 2 Mode 2 cable for connection to 10 A home power supply, which enables a recharge in 7.5 hours.
The charging socket on the vehicle is located on the rear right wing with a flap that automatically locks and unlocks with the vehicle doors. The inlet has heat protection and an indicator light to show when charging is in progress and completed.
For optimum speed of recharging and safety, Toyota recommends the combination of a Type 2 Mode 3 32 A cable and a wallbox unit. With this compact, integrated set-up, recharging can be accomplished in about 2.5 hours, with no impact on the customer's domestic power supply.
Toyota will also be making a "connected" wallbox system available that can be used by customers with different cars, identified by RFiD card recognition. The unit's connectivity will also link to services such as billing and charging history, and enable remote software updates, via the MyT app.
The design of these Toyota products is future-proofed. They are all 22 kW units that will be able to serve vehicles introduced with more powerful on-board chargers.
A CONNECTED CAR
Toyota RAV4 Plug-in is the first Toyota model to give the driver remote control of vehicle functions, including the air conditioning system, via the MyT customers' app.
Toyota's research confirms that customers choosing to buy plug-in hybrid electric vehicles expect app-based access to their vehicle, and it has made remote functions for battery management, charging and on-board comfort part of the RAV4 Plug-in's standard specification.
Remote charging control
The owner can schedule the charging time for the vehicle, for example setting the start time to take advantage of off-peak energy tariffs.
The MyT app also allows them to check the status of the vehicle's battery, the current driving range and the time remaining for complete charge, information that's particularly useful when the vehicle is connected to a public charging point. Alerts can be received to warn of a low battery charge level or any problems with the charging process.
Comfort control
The new system also allows the owner to start the car's heating or ventilation before they get behind the wheel. A defrost setting can clear screens and warm the car so no time is wasted when leaving the house; likewise, the cabin can be cooled down ready for departure on a hot day.
The system will run for up to 20 minutes, so operation can be synchronised with the time the owner wants to begin their journey.
These functions are in addition to established MyT app services, such as sending navigation destinations to the vehicle, car-to-door directions for the last part of a journey, find-my-car location; and driving analytics. Toyota will be rolling out further services in the future to increase the connected quality of its vehicles, true to its ambition to help provide mobility for all.
