Toyota unveils self-charging hybrid EV Vellfire at ₹79.5 lakh

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) on Wednesday unveiled the Vellfire, the new luxurious self-charging hybrid electric multi-purpose vehicle in India.

The company has already sold more than 6,00,000 units globally and has introduced Vellfire in CBU form, priced at ₹79.5 lakh ex-showroom.

Vellfire delivers a powerful driving experience while ensuring low fuel consumption and carbon footprint, thanks to it being a strong hybrid vehicle.

Studies have shown that strong hybrid vehicles are capable of running 40 per cent of the distance at 60 per cent of the time on electric or zero emission mode with the engine off.

The 2.5-litre 4-cylinder gasoline hybrid engine offers 86 kW (115 BHP) power and a maximum torque of 198 Nm @2800-4000 rpm. The engine, which is coupled with two electric motors and a hybrid battery, controls emissions while delivering a delightful driving experience.

Spacious, offers stability

The spacious interior of the Vellfire assures one of lounge-class travel. In addition to the high body rigidity, a new suspension has been adopted for the rear to achieve a luxurious ride, while maintaining stability.

The hybrid engine synergy contributes to a mileage of 16.35 km/l under standard test conditions. The Vellfire comes packed with 17-speaker JBL premium audio, power adjustable seats with Ottoman function, 16-colors ambient light and super long seat sliding function.

‘Better cars, better technology’

Vikram Kirloskar, Vice-Chairman, Toyota Kirloskar Motor said, “The automotive industry in India is undergoing a profound technology-driven transformation with innovation and creativity defining the overall customer experience. As industry leaders, it is imperative for us to challenge ourselves and provide customers with new breakthroughs that not only promise magnificence and comfort, but also contribute to the well-being of the ecosystem.”

“TKM has environmentally-sustainable solutions at the heart of all our business operations and every single vehicle that is manufactured in the plant. Along the lines, our latest offering New Toyota Vellfire too embodies our commitment to offering “Ever-Better Cars with Ever-Better Technology for an Ever-Better Environment,” he said.

The company’s Managing Director Masakazu Yoshimura said, “Globally, we have a caravan of luxury offerings, and the launch of Toyota Vellfire in India marks a significant moment in our journey. Today’s announcement is a significant step in our mid-to-long term plan to achieve zero CO2 challenge.”

Naveen Soni, Senior Vice-President, said, “The Toyota Vellfire offers a perfect blend of superior craftsmanship and comfort while delivering phenomenal fuel efficiency with its self-charging hybrid electric technology.”

Soni added that the Vellfire is well-aligned with Toyota Environmental Challenge 2050, which encourages us to move towards a society where people, cars and nature can coexist in harmony.

All sold out

The customer feedback has been encouraging and, thus far, the first three months of shipments of 180 CBU imported units have all been sold out.

The company refrained from getting into numbers. Soni said, “We are not in numbers game but are looking to consolidated our India business.”

On the alliance with Suzuki Motor, Soni said, “This is a mutually-beneficial association and we see immense scope for engagements through the alliance.”