The e-Palette is built on a wagon layout: the driver's workplace is located in the center, and on the left side there are wide doors that open on the bus principle — this solution complies with Japanese traffic rules. The low-floor cabin provides 17 passenger seats: four stationary seats, three folding seats, nine more people can ride standing, and there is also a ramp for people with disabilities.
The technical characteristics are impressive: an electric motor with a power of 150 kW (204 hp), a battery with a capacity of 72.8 kWh, a range of up to 250 km, and a maximum speed limited to 80 km/h. Thanks to fast charging, the battery can be replenished from zero to 80% in about 40 minutes. The steering wheel works using steer-by-wire technology, meaning there is no mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the wheels.
Toyota plans to use the e-Palette on city routes in Tokyo, as well as in the futuristic city of Woven City. Currently, the electric bus is equipped with a semi-autonomous driving system, but in the future it is expected to receive a fourth-level autopilot according to the SAE classification.
The price of the e-Palette on the Japanese market is approximately 6.7 million UAH.
