Toyota Aqua Testing in India: Future of Hybrid Technology Unveiled on Indian Roads
Key Ideas
- Toyota Kirloskar Motor India invests heavily in hybrid technologies, using the Toyota Aqua to test advanced hybrid components.
- The Aqua features a unique bipolar nickel-hydrogen battery with a voltage of 177.6V and a 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor.
- Although the Aqua won't be launched in India, it serves as a testing ground for future models like the Urban Cruiser Hyryder and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara.
- The car was spotted in Gurgaon, Haryana, with its badges covered, hinting at Toyota's focus on refining hybrid systems for upcoming releases in the Indian market.
The Toyota Aqua, a Japan-exclusive hybrid hatchback, was recently seen being tested on Indian roads by Toyota Kirloskar Motor India. The car was spotted in Gurgaon, Haryana, with its badges covered and no visible camouflage, indicating that it was a discreet testing run. One of the standout features of the Aqua is its bipolar nickel-hydrogen battery with a voltage of 177.6V, showcasing Toyota's commitment to innovative hybrid technologies.
Toyota is leveraging the Aqua to test advanced hybrid components for future models, including the next-generation Urban Cruiser Hyryder and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara. The Aqua, previously sold in some countries as the Toyota Prius C, boasts a 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor, producing 114 bhp and 141 Nm of torque. It also houses a unique bipolar nickel-hydrogen battery under the rear seat, a first in production cars.
While the Aqua is not set to launch in India, Toyota is utilizing it as a platform to refine hybrid systems for upcoming models. The company is focusing on developing the new seven-seater Urban Cruiser Hyryder to compete with popular SUVs in the Indian market. The testing of the Aqua in India signifies Toyota's dedication to advancing hybrid technology and expanding its presence in the evolving automotive industry.