DENVER – Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A announced Oct. 17 the arrival of the 2013 Scion iQ EV in the United States. The iQ EV is a battery-electric four-seater designed for car-sharing programs in urban and campus environments. 

The iQ EV features Toyota’s newly developed high-output lithium-ion battery, which delivers an electric power consumption rate of 104 Wh/km in an ultra-compact and lightweight package. In ideal stop and go driving conditions, the 12 kWh battery provides an estimated range of up to 50 miles on a full charge. The vehicle can be fully charged in approximately three hours at 240V. Its 78-inch wheel base and 13.5 foot turning radius makes the iQ EV highly maneuverable in congested areas where streets are narrow and parking is at a premium, according to the automaker. 

The iQ EV is also equipped with 11 SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) air bags including knee, side, seat cushion, front and rear curtain, and a rear window curtain airbag. Click here for additional specs.

Production began in September. Approximately 90 iQ EVs will be available for fleet and car-sharing applications, with details on individual iQ EV program partners to be announced in the coming weeks, according to the automaker.