Recently, Toyota and Tesla execs announced that two EV prototypes were being jointly developed. It has now been confirmed that one of these prototypes, which feature EV drivetrains from Tesla and Toyota platforms, will include a RAV4 model that could be production ready by 2012.

The two prototypes are being worked on by Tesla and will be delivered to Toyota by the end of the month. Toyota reportedly plans to test both prototypes rigorously to ensure the vehicles are performing to Toyota’s standards.

“With an aim to market the EV in the United States in 2012, prototypes will be made combining the Toyota RAV4 model with a Tesla electric powertrain. Tesla plans to produce and deliver a fleet of prototypes to Toyota for evaluation within this year. The first prototype has already been built and is now undergoing testing,” said Toyota in a statement.

If the electrified RAV4 model becomes a reality, it will be the second RAV4 to feature an electric drivetrain. The original EV debuted in the late 1990s and was available for lease, but many units were eventually sold and about 800 are still in use today. Aside from the original RAV4 EV, Toyota has naturally become synonymous with hybrid technology and this new partnership with Tesla promises to push the development eco-friendly technology even further.

Toyota added, “TMC has, since its foundation in 1937, operated under the philosophy of “contributing to society through the manufacture of automobiles,” and made cars that satisfy its many customers around the world. TMC introduced the first-generation Prius hybrid vehicle in 1997. The company also plans to introduce EVs into the market by 2012.”

* * *
Follow the latest Toyota news right here on this blog.

Toyota has been consumed by negative press lately, but that doesn’t mean their vehicles have lost their competitive edge. The Toyota RAV4 in particular has remained one of the most successful compact crossovers since its introduction in the mid 1990s and continues to dominate the segment that it helped establish.

Wanting to continue its segment leadership, Toyota recently debuted the 2011 RAV4 ahead of the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. With its freshened design, wider stance, and more luxurious accommodations, the 2011 Toyota RAV4 is more sophisticated than ever before.

Interior design has dramatically improved, with higher quality seating surfaces and even more available features, including Toyota’s Easy Flat seating system for to make loading cargo even easier. While the improvements to the 2011 RAV4 have provided a more sophisticated look and feel, it’s important to note that Toyota has retained the RAV4’s renowned practicality and functionality.

If you ask any Toyota Dealer Bloomington, they’ll tell you that the RAV4 is a solid compact crossover offering – and it truly is. But the slew of new crossovers on the market keep competition heated. Honda Ball sees the CR-V in much the same light, where it’s high-value option for consumers, but lacks the glitz of newer models coming down the pipeline, such as the Nissan Juke. That’s why any update and infusion of sophistication to the RAV4 is a welcomed addition.

The updated 2011 Toyota RAV4 will head to US showrooms later this year. Find additional photos and details below.

* * *

Read more Toyota news on this blog. Subscribe now for updates.

When it was launched back in 1994, the Toyota RAV4 essentially started the compact crossover segment. For those who didn’t want or couldn’t afford a large, bulky SUV, the Toyota RAV4 provided the flexibility many car buyers were after in a compact package. Since the RAV4’s launch, it has grown in price, size, and power, but it still provides an attractive package that has helped it remain a strong seller.

After years of competitors springing up to take on the RAV4, Toyota decided to take a dramatically different route with the latest model. The third-generation, which was initially released in 2006, is larger than ever before, with the availability of third row seating, which was desired by Tustin Toyota visitors and many consumers who wanted more space in a small package. The current Toyota RAV4 is also more powerful, as it now offers a powerful V6 engine option.

Despite being larger and heavier, the Toyota RAV4 remains as fun to drive as the original if not more so. This is aided by Toyota’s use of advanced systems such as an automatic limited-slip differential, electronic on-demand 4WD, hill start assist, and downhill assist control. Toyota Monroe believes that all of these systems coupled with the RAV4’s suspension and chassis provide the RAV4 with amazing traction and comfort on road or off.

Powering the Toyota RAV4 is the base 2.5-liter four cylinder engine which produces 179 horsepower and 172 lb ft of torque. Buyers can also opt for the powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers an impressive 269 horsepower and 246 lb ft of toque. The available V6 power increase was what drew in many new buyers to Los Angeles Toyota dealers following the third generation redesign. Engines are mated to either a four-speed automatic or a smooth shifting five-speed auto.

With an EPA estimated 19 mpg city and 27 mpg on the highway, the Toyota RAV4 is certainly not a gas guzzler, yet can still haul ample cargo and passengers with ease. With features such as XM satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and even a DVD navigation system, the Toyota RAV4 has options and accessories that make it highly customizable to the specific features a driver may be interested in.

It’s no surprise why the Toyota RAV4 remains a popular model for growing families according to Toyota Albuquerque. With the versatility, security, and comfort that the RAV4 delivers to the driver and passengers, the RAV4 will likely continue its role as the ideal family hauler. Plus, with outstanding reliability and strong residual resale values, the Toyota RAV4 is still a great value when compared with many of its competitors.

* * *

For a full review of the new Toyota RAV4 and much more, look to Toyota in the News.