Toyota

Toyota is a worldwide car manufacturer that in recent years has been successful with its hybrid powertrains.

Toyota Proace City Electric

Posted 15/11/2025 by Terje Bjørnstad

Earlier this year, light electric vans in Class 2 received a new subsidy. I have driven the Toyota Proace City Electric, which seems tailor-made as a commercial vehicle.

The range of light electric vans has long been limited to a few models from Nissan and Maxus. Key terms such as range, payload and price have contributed to many choosing diesel. At Toyota, you can choose between electric or diesel. “Our” electric van can take payloads of up to 600 kg, while the same model with diesel can take 813 kg. Electric models cost about 100.000 kroner more than diesel, but provide lower operating costs.

A Stellantis product

The Toyota Proace City is produced at Stellantis' production facility in Vigo, France, along with, among others, Citroen Berlingo, Peugeot Partner, Opel Combo og Fiat Doblo. Here I think you choose dealer before choosing a car. You can't say that Toyota is better than, for example, Citroen, but many people may choose Toyota because of the dealer network.

Camera mirror

I recognize the gear selector from other Stellantis models. It is clear and intuitive to use. The rest of the interior offers no surprises, except for the interior camera mirror. You can choose a 2-part screen to keep an eye on the right blind spot. Together with the rear-view camera, it gives a good overview when delivering in tight spaces. There has been a lot of discussion in car-related forums about camera mirrors - that people who need reading glasses can't see the details. I, who wear both long-range and reading glasses, had no problems with this solution. But sometimes the rear view becomes foggy. Then you have to go out and wipe the camera lens.

Drives like a passenger car

On the road, you hardly notice that you are driving a van, both when the car is empty and with a few hundred kg in the cargo area. Front axle suspension and French rear suspension with torsion axle and coil springs provide full passenger car comfort. The noise level is, as expected, very low. The steering is ultra-light with very little feedback from the wheels. The focus is clearly on comfort rather than driving pleasure, but the car is steady on the road.

The warehouse

Our need for transportation arose after replacing the furnishings in the house's two bathrooms. The trip to the recycling plant could no longer be postponed. Carefully loaded with metal, furniture panels and porcelain at the bottom, and cardboard at the top, there was also room for my old off-road bike and some bags of clothes from my wife's wardrobe. The 3.3 cubic meter cargo compartment was then full. The length of the cargo compartment is only 1.80 meters. Long objects can be accommodated in a through-loading hatch (Smart Cargo) where a kind of ski bag folds over one of the passenger seats. It expands the cargo compartment by 0.4 cubic meters.

Range

Stellantis' electric drivetrain with 50 kWh batteries is in the middle of the pack when it comes to consumption and range. My consumption was 15 kWh/100 km and the estimated range was about 290 km after driving in urban areas. The stated range is 332 km according to information on Vegvesen.no.

Regenerative braking

The car is not designed for driving with one pedal, but you can set regenerative braking with paddles on the steering wheel. I chose a fairly powerful brake and found it worked well for driving with almost one pedal. To get the most effect from regenerative energy, it is important that the battery is warm or preheated. You cannot manually start preheating the batteries. Selecting a charging station as a destination in the navigation system did not provide any preheating either. However, if you preheat the cabin via the Toyota app, the batteries will probably be supplied with some heat.

Heat pump?

Stellantis equips the Citroen ë-Berlingo – and several other 50 kWh models – with a heat pump, but I am unsure whether this also applies to Toyota. It is not mentioned as standard or optional equipment anywhere. Of the newer cars for sale on Finn.no, none have listed a heat pump on the equipment list. A heat pump is important equipment in commercial vehicles that are often used as offices, hot rooms and lunch rooms.

The driver's seat in the Toyota Proace City Electric.

Only suitable as a commercial vehicle

I have previously argued that light vans can also be well suited for private use. Cars that you can spend the night in, or travel around in with space-consuming hobbies and that cost less than equivalent passenger cars. With the current tax system for electric cars, “our” car costs 545.800 including VAT registered as a class 2 van. That is more than what, for example, the passenger car TOYOTA bZ4X Exclusive AWD The small electric van is therefore only of interest as a commercial vehicle registered as a class 2 van. It can be a good choice for plumbers, electricians, janitors, delivery drivers and more.

If you buy an electric van with green plates (class 2), you must pay 25% VAT from the first krone, while electric passenger cars have a tax-free portion of the purchase price. Businesses have the right to deduct VAT on the acquisition of vans, but only proportionally if the car is also used privately.

Toyota also makes a nifty 7-seater passenger car based on the Proace City. It's called Proace City Verso, but is not offered in Norway. Unfortunately, we have no pictures of it.

Toyota Proace City Electric presented at the electric car show at Expo Lillestrøm in 2025.

Facts Toyota Proace City Electric L1

Weights and Measures
External dimensions - L, W, H: 440 x 185 x 188 cm
Wheelbase: 278 cm
Net weight: 1775 kg (without driver)
Payload: 600 kg
Number of seats: 3
Max trailer weight w/brakes: 750 kg
– without brakes: 750 kg
Roof load: –

Drivetrain
Engine: Electric located at the front
Power: 136 HP
Front wheel drive

Battery pack
Total capacity: 50 kWh

Range and consumption
WLTP: 332 km (combined)

Cargo
Contacts: Type2 and CSS
Onboard charger: 7.4 kW
Charging time CSS, 100kW, 10-80%: 30 min.

Cargo space
Volume: 3.3 cubic meters
Additional through-loading hatch (Smart Cargo): 0.4 cubic meters
Length: 181.7 cm
Width between wheel arches: 122.9 cm
Height: 1200 cm

About the car
Place of production: Vigo, France
Color: Light gray
Equipment level: Comfort
Rented by Hire
Model: 2025
Mileage: 7420
Source: Vegvesen.no, Toyota.no

The biggest competitor is probably a Toyota Proace City with a diesel engine.

See

Electric vans — A new spring for light electric vans

Toyota.no
How we test the cars

Toyota develops H2 internal combustion engines

Posted 16/12/2024 by Terje Bjørnstad

Can hydrogen as a fuel for internal combustion engines be a current driveline for passenger cars? It cannot be ruled out. Toyota's latest prototype is a Corolla Cross with a 1,6 liter 3-cylinder GR turbo engine - and it runs on hydrogen.

HICE vs. FCEV

The engine in Toyota's prototype is a petrol engine that has been converted to run on hydrogen. One of the advantages of HICE – Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine - is that it is based on proven technology. It appeals to drivers who prefer combustion engines to electric motors. Changing engine sound and the option to choose a gear ratio create driving pleasure. In addition, you avoid extra weight and problems associated with high-voltage batteries.

The hydrogen cars you can buy today are of the FCEV type - Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle – which is based on a fuel cell to convert hydrogen gas into electricity. The drive behind the fuel cell is 100% electric with a high-voltage battery. You can get by with a fairly small battery as the fuel cell supplies electricity all the time. The hydrogen car Toyota Mirai is an example of FCEV. The driving experience is like in an electric car.

Hydrogen cars with fuel cell has several advantages compared to the H2 internal combustion engine. First and foremost because they are considered zero-emission vehicles. Internal combustion engines, on the other hand, emit NOx from the combustion process – even those that run on hydrogen. Despite the fact that much of the emissions can be filtered out, the cars cannot be characterized as zero-emission vehicles. Another negative factor is the utilization rate of the fuel. Roughly speaking, cars with a fuel cell can achieve 40-60%, while hydrogen cars with a combustion engine only achieve 20-30%. In comparison, a battery-powered electric car can achieve 70-80% efficient utilization. All cars with an electric motor can recover energy through regenerative braking. Cars with a combustion engine cannot do that.

Production?

Toyota has announced that it is too early to commit to just one future powertrain. They are therefore developing several alternatives, including powertrains based on hydrogen. They have participated in Japanese Super Taikyu Endurance Races for 2024 with a Toyota Corolla where the internal combustion engine has been rebuilt to run on liquid hydrogen. The experience from racing has helped to increase range and performance, as well as being able to quickly fill up with fuel. Toyota's latest prototype – a Corolla cross with H2 internal combustion engine, has room for 5 people and luggage. It is one step closer to a HICE model that can be driven on ordinary roads. Toyota claims in a press release that they are now 40% on their way to completing HICE technology with liquid hydrogen - initially for racing.

Toyota Cross Hydrogen Concept interior (Source: Toyota)

Corolla Cross H2 Concept

The engine is based on the 1,6 liter 3-cylinder turbo engine from GR, converted to high-pressure hydrogen direct injection. The hydrogen tanks are taken from the Toyota Mirai. The car has room for 5 people with luggage.

A market for HICE?

Moments that speak against diffusion of HICE technology

Excludes any support schemes for zero-emission vehicles.
The spread of hydrogen vehicles requires a massive development of hydrogen stations corresponding to the development of electric charging stations.

Moments that speak for diffusion of HICE technology

Hydrogen reduces emissions in places with poorly developed electrical networks. According to Toyota's manager, Aiko Toyoda are large parts of the world without sufficient electricity.
Does not require raw materials such as lithium and nickel. H2 is found in water.
Cars with internal combustion engines provide more driving pleasure than electric cars.
Possibilities for rebuilding existing internal combustion engines.

A breakthrough for hydrogen as a fuel in passenger cars is not only dependent on it being access on hydrogen. It should also be cheap og sustainability. Today, hydrogen can be produced through the electrolysis of water - a process that requires electricity. From time to time there are speculations that Toyota is researching water as fuel. Perhaps the cars of the future will be able to produce hydrogen themselves "on the fly"? The living will see!

See

Toyota.no

The new Urban Cruiser will be Toyota's next electric car

Posted 14/12/2024 by Terje Bjørnstad

If you reserve now, you could be one of the first to receive this car after the summer holidays next year.

Toyota Europe has just presented its next electric model. It should be displayed on Brussels Motor Show in January next year. The first customers can have the cars delivered after next summer, perhaps as a 2026 model? No prices have yet been announced.

New Toyota Urban Cruiser is a high-built SUV in the so-called B-class, where today we find a big favourite, the Volvo EX30, which is in second place on the sales lists so far this year. The two models have almost identical features. With the right price, Toyota can capture many of the customers in this class. Toyota is already well represented with the hybrid models Yaris cross, C-H og Corolla cross. Today's Urban cruiser is the second model with this name. The first version was a high-built model based on the Yaris (2009-2016). What do you call a car? Urban cruiser, it should be cool. Toyota has succeeded better in this in the new version, which is based on the concept car Urban SUV.

The rear seat can be pushed forward for more luggage space

Facts about the Urban Cruiser

Built on a completely new platform that will provide good protection for the batteries and without cross beams to make better use of the space for batteries. The platform will also be used in the new Suzuki eVitara.

Supplied with either front-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive based on a dual motor – one motor over each axle.

Cars with front-wheel drive can be delivered with a battery of 49 kWh or 61 kWh. The latter battery is also in cars with 4-wheel drive. All the cars get a heat pump and the option to preheat the batteries.

The engine in cars with the smallest battery produces 144 hp. The engine in cars with a large battery and front-wheel drive produces 174 hp and in cars with 4-wheel drive you get a total of 184 hp from both engines.

The external dimensions are 429 cm long, 180 cm wide, 164 cm high and the wheelbase is a whopping 270 cm.

The Urban SUV concept car

Toyota Urban SUV Concept was exhibited at eCarExpo 2025. The production models often appear as a disappointment compared to the concept cars that car manufacturers show in an early phase. But here the production model is quite similar to the concept car. It may look as if Toyota has opted for a smoother rounding of the wheel arches in excess. A shame, because the sharp curved profiles above the wheel arches gave the concept car a tough and mischievous feel. The lower part of the rear also seems to be toned down compared to the prototype.

Suzuki eVitara

The Suzuki eVitara is expected in Norway already in early summer next year. Although it shares a platform and technology with the Urban Cruiser, it has retained certain distinctive features. One of them is the marked wheel arches that look completely identical to Toyota's concept car Urban SUV.

See

Toyota.no

Toyota corolla cross

Posted 26/07/2024 by Terje Bjørnstad

A car that fills the space between the Toyota Corolla station wagon and the RAV4. Suitable large family car with good driving characteristics, largely due to the fact that it weighs less than electric cars.

So far this year, the list of the 20 best-selling car models is dominated by electric models. The exception is Toyota's hybrid models with the Corolla in the lead. The range of cars with internal combustion engines disappears as a result of being penalized with taxes. Then you get a smaller car for the money. In terms of price, the Corolla Cross therefore competes with electric cars in the class above, such as the Volkswagen ID.4 GTX. We will return to that later.

The Corolla Cross is a smaller version of the Toyota RAV4. It is equipped with three engines – one 2,0 liter 152 hp petrol engine and two electric motors. The one electric motor is part of the hybrid system and is integrated into the gearbox. The other sits on the rear axle to operate the four-wheel drive system e-Four. Total power for all engines is more than enough. 197 hp means that you can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in between 7 and 8 seconds.

Compared to the RAV4, the Corolla Cross has a cleaner design where the lines flow more harmoniously. Nevertheless, our car undoubtedly comes across as a real SUV – not just a high-built Corolla. Lined up next to each other, you can clearly see the differences. Compared to the Corolla Touring Sports (station wagon), you can see that the SUV has a shorter wheelbase and shorter length. It also has a smaller boot than the station wagon. Nevertheless, the Cross gives the impression of being a larger and more solidly built car.

I don't know if the solid impression is real - that the Corolla Cross really is more solidly built than the standard Corolla. The ground clearance is at least 2,5 cm higher, and the angular front, the thick A-pillars and the large mirrors give a real SUV feel. With the electronically controlled 4-wheel drive, I am sure that you can get safely up the last hill in the winter before the plow has driven off.

Big enough as a family car?

For some, cars can never be big enough. I think you get a lot of space within compact dimensions, and that the car looks bigger than it actually is. With a total length of 4,45 metres, the car belongs to the C segment (the "Golf class"). The biggest limitation for most people will probably be the size of the luggage compartment. It holds 394 liters up to the luggage hider. Here you can also make use of the space in the height by, for example, transporting suitcases standing up. The space conditions in the compartment between the rows of seats can work well for a normal family of 4-5 people. It is also possible to mount a roof rack and trailer, although the maximum trailer weight is only 750 kg – just enough for a villa trailer.

Kongsberg

Some of the photos were taken in Kongsberg. We drove there to go "pole hunting". There are walking routes that take us around on paths and roads we would hardly have found on our own. And after the trip, we are left with good impressions of the city, which turns 400 this year. My wife's ancestors worked in the silver mines and lived in the city. Her grandmother lived here as a girl and had to drive the cows from the courtyard inside the town across the busy square to a field outside - under the supervision and laughter of the town's oldest men.

Inside the car

It is easy to find your way in the Toyota. Most of it seems identical to the standard Corolla. Compared to the electric cars I've driven recently, the dash in the Corolla feels dated. Today's cars have freestanding flat screens, not conventional, padded instrument clusters. I realize it's more about Design than functionality. Likewise the mechanical "PRND" gear lever which other car manufacturers have now replaced with other solutions.

I would characterize the interior of the Corolla as more "trusty" than old-fashioned. The flimsy seat adjustment levers seem cheap. The adjustment is not stepless, but it has electric lumbar support and the chairs are comfortable with good lateral support. The sound level is low. You can practically not hear the engine. But despite the low noise level, we had to raise our voices a lot to talk to each other. The sound from the radio also disappeared in poor acoustics. Acoustics and sound image are characteristics that distinguish premium cars from ordinary cars, - and the Corolla is not a premium car.

On the road

I mentioned at the outset that the Toyota Corolla Cross is sold at the same price as the Volkswagen ID.4 GTX and can therefore be considered competitors. One area in which the Corolla Cross can assert itself is driving pleasure on country roads. Battery cars such as the ID.4 (and more) tend to weigh 500 kg more than the Corolla Cross. That - and built-in economy programs that will increase the range - can help to cut the torque in the engine(s) at unfavorable times. The Corolla Cross is more entertaining to drive on country roads. You notice it in normal roundabouts. Let off the gas, put the car into the turn and accelerate out - then you feel the fine interaction between car and driver - just as driving should be.

If you want to feel all the 197 horsepower, you need to switch to Sport driving mode, although it is not necessary for normal driving. Even in Normal mode, the hybrid drivetrain responds quickly and delivers good traction up the Lierbakken and elsewhere. I have previously complained that the first cars with Toyota's hybrid drive system could increase the revs of the engine for no reason, as if the drive system was not connected to the wheels. This is no longer a problem – something I have also found in the standard Corolla.

consumption

Our consumption on the trip to Kongsberg ended up at 0,63 litres/10km. Stated consumption for combined driving is 0,51 - 0,56 litres/10km. Our trip took place on a hot summer day with an inside temperature of 22 degrees, on good roads between 80 and 100 km/h and partly on cruise control without focusing on consumption. When we previously tested the larger Toyota RAV4, we measured a consumption of just 0,57 litres/10km over a short stretch of motorway. I'm sure that the Corolla Cross can also get down to the same level.

Conclusion

If you live in a city and have to park on the street, an electric car can present practical problems. The Corolla Cross is well suited in an urban environment. It is large enough to be a family car, yet easy to maneuver and park. I would also point out that it is more fun to drive than many popular electric family cars, mainly due to its lighter weight. It is also just as fast from a standstill as electric cars.

An annoying feature of the car is the poor acoustics in the cabin, which makes it difficult to chat while driving. Let me also mention that according to the license plate, the permitted trailer weight is only 750 kg for both braked and unbraked trailers. That's low for a 4-wheel drive with a 2-liter engine.

Toyota Corolla Cross. Trunk with a small compartment underneath for tire repair, warning triangle and the like.

Chairs in partial leather — Toyota Corolla Cross. Part leather seats

Facts Toyota Corolla Cross

Weights and Measures
External dimensions - L, W, H: 446 x 182,5 x 162 cm
Wheelbase: 264 cm
Ground clearance: 16 cm
Net weight: 1509 kg (without driver)
Payload: 431 kg
Number of seats: 5
Max trailer weight w/brakes: 750 kg
– without brakes: 750 kg
Roof load: 75 kg (source: Thule)

Drivetrain
Engine 1: 2,0 4-cylinder petrol engine, front mounted. A20A-FXS. 152 hp, torque 190 Nm between 4400-5200 revs.
Engine 2: front electric motor integrated with gearbox, 113 hp.
Motor 3: electric motor, rear, 41 hp.
Total power: 197 hp
Transmission: e-CVT AWD-i (continuously variable automatic)
Four-wheel drive system: e-Four. Main features on the front wheels and rear wheels which are connected electronically from the rear-mounted electric motor.

Performances
Top speed: 180 km/h
0-100: 7,46 – 7,74 seconds

Battery pack
Type: Li-ion
Location: Under the back seat
Total capacity: 0,9 kWh

consumption
Stated consumption (combined): 0,51 – 0,56 litres/10km
Measured consumption: 0,63 litres/10km

Cargo
Non-rechargeable hybrid solution

Luggage compartment
As a five-seater: 394 litres
As a two-seater: 1337 litres

Tires
Dimension: 225/50R18 95 V
Type: Summer tire
Brand: Dunlop SP Sport Maxx 050

Prices
Price: NOK 554 (Executive)
Paint surcharge: NOK (Urban Khaki)

About the car
Place of production: Takaoka plant, Japan
Leased by Rent
Model: 2024
Mileage: New
Km driven: 167

Smiley faces and surfing
🙂 Provides more driving pleasure than similar electric family cars.
🙁 Bad acoustics in the cabin. Low trailer weight.

Sources
Toyota.no, Vegvesen.no

See

The regiment farm — Toyota CorollaHybrid

How we test the cars

Hydrogen car – at least one good reason

Posted 09/05/2024 by Terje Bjørnstad

Although "everyone" buys electric cars and "no one" buys hydrogen cars, I have kept the faith that hydrogen cars still have the right of life. Today, faith has become stronger.

A good reason

From 6 May, the electric cars were thrown out of the public transport zone from the E18 west of Oslo. Today's happy news in Asker og Bærum Budstikke and Avisa Oslo is about Margrethe Wam Solvang who is a hydrogen car owner and can speed into the public transport lane perfectly legally. "- I smile and wave to the police who carry out checks", she says – and the police smile and wave back. The ban on electric cars in public transport does not apply to hydrogen cars. They do not need to bring any passengers with them, nor do they have to pay tolls or parking fees in Oslo. Today, as "all" new cars are electric cars, it is probably only a matter of time before electric cars are banished from public transport lanes elsewhere as well. Then you can ask yourself:

Is the time to rethink hydrogen cars?

There are not terribly many hydrogen cars to choose from - neither in Norway nor elsewhere in the world. Of new cars there are Toyota Mirai or Hyundai Nexo. Toyota has a range of 650 km and Hyundai has 666 km. Prices for the Toyota Mirai start at NOK 788, while the Hyundai Nexo no longer appears on Norwegian price lists, but according to German price lists it would cost approximately NOK 400 more than the Mirai. The point is that if you need a hydrogen car to drive in the public transport zone - and thus make your everyday life better, you might as well buy a used hydrogen car. A 100-year-old Toyota Mirai Fuel Cell will do just fine for many years to come.

Fuel cell in brief

I like the designation fuel cell (fuel cell) well. It is the one that converts the hydrogen gas into electricity - which makes the car move. Electricity is also used to form hydrogen gas. This is the biggest weakness of a hydrogen car compared to a battery-powered car. The process of transporting electricity via hydrogen gas results in poorer utilization of the energy than storing the current in a battery.

Toyota Mirai 2 close-up (Photo: Wirestock/depositphotos.com)

Hyundai Nexo Fuel Cell hydrogen tank (Photo: autodatanet/depositphotos.com)

Batteries for trouble

The problems with today's electric cars are swept under the rug. It is not allright that a regular family car with a long range should constantly transport a battery weighing 700+ kg. They just build bigger and heavier cars without focusing on the problems it creates - during production, during their lifetime and during scrapping. Furthermore, it is difficult to imagine how cities of millions full of street-parked cars will function with electric cars. Electrifying today's heavy traffic with batteries is even more unthinkable. At the border crossing in La Jonquera between France and Spain, for example, 10 wagon trains pass every 000 hours. The roads on the continent are filled with commercial traffic.

The big bang

I was standing up on Bjerke and thinking - or charging - in June 2019 when it slammed. A sharp bang that I felt from the ground into my body. The hydrogen station for Uno-X at Kjørbo in Sandvika outside Oslo had blown up. Today there is only one functioning hydrogen station in Norway. It is located in Høvik. Hynion AS which runs the station, has plans to open a station in Porsgrunn as well. The lack of hydrogen stations is probably determined by the market. Uno-X pulled out after the bang. Today's company has plans to build more stations, but is dependent on the market picking up. It will require incentives from the authorities, such as being able to continue driving in public transport lanes. A very good reason for many.

Price

according to Hydrogenbil.net 1 kg of hydrogen costs NOK 195. It is enough for about 10 miles when driving calmly. The high price is due to the fact that it is expensive to produce hydrogen. Furthermore, there are no alternatives to Norway's only functioning hydrogen station.

A good, affordable hydrogen car is, for example, the 2016 Toyota Mirai or the Hyundai Tucson IX35 – both with prices starting at around NOK 200.

2016 Toyota Mirai Fuel Cell

Car type: Sedan 4 doors
Number of seats: 4
Front wheel drive
Horse power: 154 hp
Torque: 335 Nm
Top speed: 175 km/h
0-100: 9,6 seconds
Range: 550 km
Battery capacity: 1,6 kWh
Length, width, height in cm: 489, 181, 154
Wheelbase in cm: 278
Luggage compartment: 361 litres
Trailer weight: Not possible
Own weight: 1850 kg
Total weight: 2180 kg

2016 Hyundai Tucson IX35 FCEV

Car type: Crossover combi 5 doors
Number of seats 5
Front wheel drive
Horse power: 136 hp
Torque: –
Top speed: 160 km/h
0-100:-
Range: 594 km
Battery capacity: 1,0 kWh
Length, width, height in cm: 441, 182, 165
Wheelbase in cm: 264
Luggage compartment: 488 litres
Trailer weight: Not possible
Own weight: 1846 kg
Total weight: 2250 kg

See

Norwegian Hydrogen Car Association
Hynion AS
Norway's only hydrogen station with record attendance

The next big thing

Posted 15/02/2024 by Terje Bjørnstad

Will GM be able to maintain its zero-emission goals when sales numbers decline and the country's incoming president mocks electric cars? And why hasn't Toyota entered the electric car market with greater weight?

Da Mary T. Barra recently presented GM's annual report, it emerged that sales of electric cars have declined and that GM has chosen to increase its investment in hybrid cars. The GM boss stressed that the company's goal of zero emissions still stands. Nevertheless, the press has subsequently asked whether GM is in the process of reconsidering its investment in electric cars, due to lower demand. In social media, GM is accused of listening more to the politicians than to its own customers, although American politicians are unlikely to fuss about electric cars. Everything indicates that the next president of the United States will be Donald Trump - a self-proclaimed opponent of electric cars.

We're taking action in the fight against climate change by planning to make our global products and operations carbon neutral by 2040 and eliminating tailpipe emissions from our new US light duty vehicles by 2035. (GM's climate goal)

GM's new electric car platform vice got off to an inauspicious start last year with delays followed by nationwide strikes. Barra said that sales of electric vehicles have slowed. Even if other electric car manufacturers experience the same, GM must see itself overtaken by foreign electric car manufacturers for the last quarter of 2023. The company's results for 2023 were nevertheless good - far better than expectations - thanks to the sale of the large pickups with thermal engines (source: NBC).

Several American websites predict that GM will reduce its production of electric cars in favor of gasoline and hybrid cars.

GM is not just anyone in the American auto industry. It is about capital, jobs, politics, social responsibility, profit and risk. No one knows how the technology will develop. Responsible car manufacturers should have more legs to stand on. Ruling out electric cars can be as big a risk as going "all in". Toyota's chairman, Aiko Toyoda, has stated that he believes electric cars are unlikely to exceed 30% of the global car fleet. Toyota has invested heavily in developing alternative powertrains, primarily hybrid technology. They are also one of the few car manufacturers that can deliver hydrogen cars. The company is Japan's leading car manufacturer - a "locomotive" - with partnership and ownership interests in Subaru, Mazda and Daihatsu, among others. Nor have any of these car manufacturers distinguished themselves to any significant extent as electric car manufacturers.

The fact that two of the world's largest car groups have not thrown themselves wholeheartedly into the electric car race could have major consequences if developments in battery technology were to make major progress. If "the next big thing" provides major improvements in range and charging times, we can see a "game changer" in the car industry, where car manufacturers such as GM and Toyota do not have time to adapt - so that new players from China hijack the customers. Nobody knows what is going to be "the next big thing", It may as well be based on fuel cells as battery technology.

Without political facilitation and financial support for consumers, electric cars would only be an offer for the wealthiest in society. We take it for granted that the politicians steer the development towards zero emissions, but it doesn't have to be that way. The likely future president of the United States, Donald Trump, has expressed that he hates electric cars. Whatever he may think, in the short term GM stands to gain more from increasing production of large pickup trucks with thermal engines than from developing zero-emission vehicles. That would be unwise in the long run. Nevertheless, Trump can reap political gains from harping on electric cars. By claiming that real Americans don't want electric cars, or anything like that, he can influence his own supporters - about half the US. It can also influence reactionary political leaders in other countries to give the thumbs down to measures that reduce emissions and financial support for the purchase and use of electric cars.

Donald Trump on his way to the courtroom in 2023. Photo: Thenews2/Depositphotos.com

Aiko Toyoda probably knows the global car market better than most. If Toyota's management had agreed to it, they could have built the world's best electric cars that most people could afford to buy. One of Toyoda's arguments is that 1 billion people on the planet live without fixed power. That is one of the reasons why the share of electric cars in the world is unlikely to exceed 30%. There are several obstacles that need to be overcome.

Here are some of them:

Charging in the million cities
In Naples in 2018, there were as many as 2,35 million cars – most parked on the street. How should these cars be charged? If each car is to be charged once a week, 330 cars will need charging every day. Where should they stand? In another European million-dollar city, Barcelona, 000% of the city's area was filled up by cars in 60 (Catalan News). In cities of millions, such as these, the amount of traffic is already at breaking point. Where should the cars drive to charge?

Prices
Electric cars are more expensive than equivalent cars with thermal engines. In rich countries, the authorities can facilitate financial support schemes. Poor countries can hardly do that. If electric cars are to replace the car fleet globally, they should not cost more to produce than thermal cars.

Small cars
Currently, there are few electric cars in the small car segment with acceptable battery capacity. Partly because the batteries are too heavy for small cars and partly because the prices will make them too expensive. We need a better offer of electric cars in the A and B classes.

Dependence on China
China belongs to what we in the West call the "axis of evil" - which supports authoritarian and cynical regimes. China supplies batteries to many European car manufacturers. In an overview from Finnish Cleanfi Oy, 2021, for example, all electric cars from Daimler AG were equipped with batteries from China. Models from BMW, Citroen, Opel and Peugeot also had their batteries delivered from China. Europe should be able to produce batteries itself with its own raw materials.

Ethical values
Many claim that the production of batteries for electric cars leads to exploitation of minerals, that the work is harmful to the environment and that workers are exploited - including child labour. Raw materials, such as cobalt, are mined in developing countries. We need batteries that are built on raw materials where the entire value chain can be followed.

preparedness
Military vehicles require diesel or "multifuel". In the event of mobilization, the state can seize civilian vehicles. The fact that there are civilian vehicles that run on diesel is an important part of our preparedness. Imagine being called to war as a truck driver to be handed an electric truck 🙂

Analogy to Norwegian DAB investment

I hope that electric cars do not fall into the same category as the Norwegian DAB initiative. Former head of broadcasting Thor Gjermund Eriksen convinced the politicians that DAB was the future solution for radio broadcasting. Norway became the first and last country in the world to go "all in" for DAB. Norwegian households were encouraged to buy expensive Pinelli DAB radios, which turned out to be highly flammable. A short time later, "the next big thing" came in the form of 4G. By then, DAB was technically passé.

See

Forbes: GM does a U-Turn
My American Dream

Do Toyota and Subaru get batteries from BYD?

Posted 27/03/2022 by Terje Bjørnstad

New Subaru Solterra has high ground clearance for moments like this (source: subaru.com)

BYD has been researching "blade" technology for several years. The biggest advantages are increased fire safety and tighter packaging so that they take up less space. Another advantage is that they are LFP-based, i.e. based on Lithium, iron and phosphorus - or put another way: They contain not nickel like other lithium-based batteries (NCM/NCA). These days, nickel can present problems as Russia accounts for a large part of the production.

Increased fire safety

electric cars from china — **BYD's New Blade Battery Set to Redefine EV Safety Standards**

The Blade batteries' fire safety has been tested by several people. One penetrates a cell with a pointed metal object. The blade cell then emits a "pop" and smoke, but no fire. If you do the same with a normal lithium cell, the cell explodes in a magnesium-white light. One can imagine the consequences this could have in a car, for example by driving over a pointed metal object.

BYD supplies batteries to Tesla

Today, all BYDs have Tang blade batteries. It also has the new Tesla SR+ (standard range plus). They also get their batteries from BYD. "Everyone" talks about "Solid State" batteries without liquid elements, which make them both lighter and less bulky. There was long speculation as to whether Toyota should choose "Solid State". You could probably say that Blade is a step on the way to "Solid State".

Subaru's new four-wheel drive

Toyota's new electric car model bZ4X (beyond zero four cross) is a welcome addition to electric car-hungry Toyota fans. The Subaru Solterra is essentially the same model as the bZ4X. Both models are produced as front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive with a separate electric motor on the rear wheels. There is little doubt that it is the latter variant that will be most popular here at home. Since Subaru has made a profile of only delivering cars with four-wheel drive, it is not inconceivable that they choose to omit front-wheel drive from their model range. They will continue to market the four-wheel system as X-Mode, although Solterra's system is not the same as for the fossil models. Audi did the same when they launched their e-tron as Quattro. But today's solution with a separate electric motor for the rear wheels and an electronically controlled driving program for snow and off-road probably works just as well as the "old" 4-wheel systems. The systems in Audi and Subaru have for many years been considered the world's best.

The off-road characteristics have not been forgotten

Toyota and Subaru address two different customer groups. Subaru owners are likely to make stricter demands on off-road capabilities. Many people probably want to replace their Forester or Outback and don't want to risk smashing the battery packs on the first trip up to the cabin. Toyota (and Subaru) have worked on the off-road properties, including driving in water. The Solterra's ground clearance is a decent 20 cm, which is still 2 cm lower than the Forester and Outback. But the batteries must be fitted into load-bearing structures so that they have protection from the underside. Incidentally, the Forester weighs "only" 1600 kg compared to the Solterra, which seems to end up at around 2 tonnes.

Steering by wire

Another finesse with the new bZ4X and Solterra is "steering-by-wire", i.e. without mechanical transmission between steering wheel and wheels. According to Toyota, the new system should deliver better steering feel than conventional steering. In addition, Toyota will offer joysticks like in an airplane instead of a steering wheel (optional). According to Toyota, you should be able to keep two hands on the "steering wheel" without having to cross your arms while driving. Subaru is not going to offer such a solution.

Medium range

The two new models from Toyota and Subaru will challenge the Volkswagen ID.4, Audi Q4 and Skoda Enyaq in terms of size and performance. Toyota/Subaru can be supplied with two battery packs, one of 71,4 kwh for front-wheel drive - and a pack of 72,8 kwh for four-wheel drive cars. Currently, there is a lot of "hyped" information about ranges. Four-wheel drive cars will, according to all sun brands, end up between 440-460 km WLTP. In terms of experience, the practical daily range is 4/5 of the stated figures, in this case between 350 and 370 km.

Many of the customers for the Toyota bZ4X are likely to come from the Toyota RAV4. They will feel comfortable in the electric car. Subaru owners who want to switch to the Solterra will probably also find themselves comfortable, provided that the cabin is not too rough.

Much has been written about who will supply batteries for the Toyota BZ4X in the future. Rumors said Toyota would get Blade batteries from BYD. Maybe BYD supplies batteries to Toyota, but not in cars that come to Norway. Today, Toyota receives batteries from CATL in China. Perhaps only for now, because there is still speculation that Toyota is looking for new partners for batteries.

See

Hongqi Norway — Every 3rd electric car from China

New Aygo X – Citroen C1 disappears

Posted 05/02/2022 by Terje Bjørnstad

The Citroen C1 and Peugeot 108 are discontinued, while the Toyota Aygo X comes in a brand new, trendy, high-built crossover version. We take a closer look at the discontinued models that will be found in the used car market in the future.

Cleans the model program

The decision to sacrifice the two PSA models is a consequence of the merger between PSA and Fiat-Chrysler. Stellantis wants to secure the Fiat Panda and Fiat 500's positions in the market. These models are more important for Fiat than what the Citroen C1 and Peugeot 108 are to PSA. This leaves PSA without any model in the A segment. Citroen fills the gap with the following two models: The new all-electric AMI, which is a moped car with a battery capacity of 5,5 kWh, a range of 75 km and a top speed of 45 km/h. In addition, Citroen has launched a toned-down version of the C3, called the C3 You, with a PureTech 82 HP engine and manual transmission. It has simpler decor, simpler seat covers and a scaled-down infotainment system, but the same level of safety as the other C3 variants.

Toyota's factory

The collaboration between PSA and Toyota has included the models Citroen C1, Peugeot 107/108 and Toyota Aygo. They are manufactured in the same factory with identical technical components. If you look closely at the seams of the cars, it says "Toyota" on several of the parts. There is a lot of Toyota in them, and a year ago Toyota took over ownership of the factory in Kolin, Czech Republic. There they will produce the new Aygo X and Yaris.

Aygo X as a crossover

The new Aygo X - "X" stands for cross - is built on the same platform as the Yaris. With a total length of 370 cm, width of 174 cm and 18-inch wheels, it is large for its class. The engine is basically the same as in the Aygo, but now adapted to new European environmental requirements. The new Aygo X is no boring Toyota. It has sharp, modern lines and app solutions aimed at young, café latte-drinking, urban people. It is offered in 4 different spice colors – Cardamom, Chili, Ginger and Juniper. The signature model is made in a limited edition - made in "Cardamom" with decorative elements in "Matte Mandarina".

Toyota largest of the three

In the last 3-4 years, new car sales of Citroen C1, Peugeot 108 and Toyota Aygo have been very modest in Norway. In the rest of Europe, on the other hand, Aygo has had good sales figures with almost 100 cars sold in 000. Of the three models, Aygo has accounted for 2019% of sales, while Citroen C50 and Peugeot 1 have each accounted for 108%. The same relationship was present in Norway.

Used cars

At the moment there are 178 used cars of the mini trio from the Czech Republic for sale on Finn.no. As a used car, you can get a simple, reliable car with low mileage for around NOK 30. The Toyota Aygo is generally more expensive than the other two models for no real reason. All three models are produced on the same assembly line. According to TÜV reports from 000 to 2015, the three models come out better than average. Almost all the cars for sale have the same 2019-litre engine with 1,0 cylinders and timing chain. Newer cars could be delivered with 3 VTi engines - also those with 1,0 cylinders and a timing chain. They provide 3 HP instead of 72 HP. In Europe, cars were sold with a 69 diesel engine producing 1,4 HP. These have a timing belt - not a chain. Some cars have an automatic transmission, which is an unsophisticated, robotic, manual 54-speed transmission solution. It shifts hard and erratically and is not suitable for driving on icy and snowy roads. Is not recommended.

Known error

Faults that reoccur more often than other cars are a worn clutch and water penetrating the passenger compartment. Some owners experience water coming in from the roof, others from the boot. There has also been a warranty repair due to poorly glued rear windows.

Model history

The models were produced from 2005 to 2022. In that time, 3 upgrades were made. The first for model year 2009, then 2012 and a major change for 2014. Peugeot went by the model name 107 until 2014, when it changed its name to 108. The changes consisted of visual changes, interior controls and seat upholstery. The changes in 2014 included improvements to the rear suspension and the option of a hill start holder.

On the road

Although the 1-litre engine does not perform all the world's best on paper, it is experienced as responsive and nimble with good traction at low revs so that you rarely need to push the engine. The gearbox is suitable for quick shifting, the steering is light, and with a hill start holder - both easy to drive and fun to drive. It is well suited for training new drivers. In terms of space, it is a 2+2, not a 4-seater. The driver's seat with fixed headrest is surprisingly comfortable even for tall people. The sound level is higher than in the classes above, without being particularly annoying.

Facts about the 2014 Citroen C1

Length, width, height: 347 x 162 x 146 cm
Wheelbase: 234 cm
Own weight: 855 kg
Net weight: 310 kg
Engine: 1KR-FE, 998 ccm, 3 cyl, 12V
Power: 69 HP at 6000 rpm
Torque: 95 Nm at 4800 revolutions
Power transmission: 5-speed, front-wheel drive
Front suspension: MacPherson, independent suspension
— rear: semi-independent
Front brakes: Ventilated discs
— behind: Drums
Top speed: 157 km/h
0-100: 14,3 seconds

See

Toyota Yaris – wider and cooler

Posted 21/05/2021 by Terje Bjørnstad

The new Yaris looks cool. Large wheelbase and track width make it look like something more than a "granny express". I was curious about the driving characteristics and whether the hybrid solution has become less fussy.

Do you remember the very first Yaris?

It was a breath of fresh air from Toyota. Not just a small car, but one cool car. The design caused a stir when it was presented at the Paris Motor Show in 1998. The Yaris was not the biggest in its class, but won on other qualities. After several laps, the Yaris fell under "it ensure - but alas boring«. Boring to look at and boring to drive. The new Yaris, on the other hand, looks good. But how is it to drive?

The vital goals

It is not difficult to see that the Yaris has been given a wider track width and a longer wheelbase. These are the vital measurements that can make small cars feel like bigger cars on the road. In that sense, the Yaris is bigger than the Corolla and Golf were 10 years ago. The Yaris' platform is also larger than its competitors, but development is fast. The new Skoda Fabia and upcoming Volkswagen Polo are on the same level. In my eyes, the Yaris is still a small car, but with a wider and longer platform, it really looks like a competent driving machine.

On the road

Now it must be said that I have not driven it on any race track, just taken it calmly around country roads and small roads. The hybrid drive system consists of a 1,5-litre 3-cylinder engine with 92 HP and an electric motor with 80 HP. Overall peak power is still "only" 116 HP, but the torque is superb. There's plenty of power, too – and they're there when you need them. The engine quickly comes "on track" when needed. The steering is easy. At speed, I could have wished for a little more steering resistance. I liked how the chassis handled bumps in the road. Especially speed bumps, thanks to the long wheelbase. The suspension felt firm, - yet comfortable - but did not invite sporty driving. Then I would have liked better road feel when the car is pushed a little hard into the bends. But I can't blame the Yaris for poor road feel until I've tried it with other tyres. "My" Yaris had studless winter tires on 15 inch rims.

Yaris in front of the Holmenkoll plant and a heavy downpour

Improved hybrid and CVT

It is beyond any doubt that Toyota has fixed the previous annoyance with the CVT gearbox which sent the revs skyrocketing for no reason. We have previously noted clear improvements in the new Corolla and RAV4 - and now - the new Yaris. The drive nevertheless behaves differently to what we are used to from small turbo engines with double clutches and electric cars. When the petrol engine is active, the Yaris behaves as if it had a traditional automatic transmission. I would characterize it as more alive - and more entertaining. For me, it brings back memories of the automatic cars of old that I loved to drive, knowing that there is a fine nuance difference between a live and a fussy drive train.

3 cylinders with a nice sound image

The engine is 3-cylinder without affecting the sound image. Many 3-cylinder engines emit a sound reminiscent of scooters and outboard motors. Also, they tend to send vibrations into the cabin when the revs drop towards idle. This is eliminated in hybrid cars, as the electric motor takes over. During normal driving, you don't think much about how the Yaris distributes the power between the petrol and electric motor. The impression is that the petrol engine always runs when you give it gas, and "fades out" when you take your foot off the gas.

Interior feeling of quality

Knobs and levers seem half a class above previous models without leaving any premium feeling - at least not in "our" level of equipment. But with automatic lighting and a rain sensor, there aren't that many buttons you really need to press. The handbrake is electromechanical. The gear selector is "PRND" directly - not "by wire". The seat adjustment is mechanical, slightly flimsy plastic levers. The seats are "completely alright" to sit in, with height adjustment at the rear and stepwise adjustable backrests. The gas cap opener is still a small lever under the seat.

Place

The Yaris is registered for 5, but seems more like a 4-seater for adult passengers. But 3 children are of course fine behind. I could sit quite alright behind myself, although getting in and out was a bit tricky with my long legs. I am 1,88 meters tall. In general, mutual cooperation is required to fit 2 tall people behind each other in cars like this. The luggage compartment is 286 liters under the hat shelf. It is normal for the class.

Safety

All models are equipped with Toyota's Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Lane Trace Assist, Emergency Steering Assist and Intersection Turn Assistance. The latter should detect whether you are on a collision course with crossing traffic.

Standard on all models are also 8 airbags, including central airbags to prevent passengers in the same row of seats from "clinching" into each other in the event of a side impact. NCAP tested the system and it worked fine. The Yaris got top results in side collisions and also with respect to whiplash. All cars have an automatic e-call system that calls the emergency services in the event of a collision. In the case of an offset frontal collision towards the driver's side, the test mannequin suffered "marginal" damage to the legs due to collision with parts of the dashboard. Compared to its competitors, the safety of the Yaris was rated on a par with the all-new models of the Peugeot 208 and Opel Corsa.

consumption

Consumption stated from the factory is measured in ht. WLTP. In the WLTP tests, hybrid cars often come out far better than in reality, because a majority of the measurements take place within the range of the batteries. Toyota states WLTP consumption in mixed driving to be 0,39 litres/mile and that figure is actually real. My consumption in suburbs and country roads at an outside temperature of 10 degrees - and various stops along the way - ended up at 0,34 litres/mile measured from the first cold start until the car was returned. This is not bad considering the car is quite powerfully motorized for its class.

Conclusion

Toyota has created a completely different Yaris for "keen drivers". It is called "GR Yaris" and produces 261 HP and will cost almost NOK 600. You can get the standard edition from NOK 000 - 260. The point is that a small car like the Yaris shouldn't cost too much. Then the price advantage you get by choosing a smaller car disappears. The standard Yaris is easy to drive and comfortable, without appealing to "keen drivers".

New hybrid solutions can become expensive fun for car owners as the miles and years roll on. The biggest advantage of the Yaris is that the hybrid solution is well-proven and widely sold all over the world. No surprises.

Download Euro NCAP report for 2020 Toyota Yaris

Facts about the Toyota Yaris Hybrid (XP210)

Weights and Measures
External dimensions - L, W, H: 394 x 175 x 150 cm
Wheelbase: 256 cm
Front track width: 151,8 cm
Rear track width: 151,4 cm
Net weight: 1085 kg (without driver)
Payload: 455 kg
Total weight: 1615 kg
Number of seats: 5
Max trailer weight w/brakes: 450 kg
– without brakes: 450 kg
Roof load: –

Drivetrain
Petrol engine: 1,5 liter (3 cyl) VVT-iE
Power: 120 HP @ 5500 rpm
Torque: 120 Nm @ 3800-4800 revs
Electric motor: 80 HP, 141 Nm constant
Total power: 116 HP
Gearbox: e-CVT
Operation: Front wheel drive

Performances
Top speed: 174 km/h
0-100: 9,7 seconds

Electric car characteristics
Battery pack: Lithium-ion 4,3 amp/hour
Not plug-in rechargeable

consumption
WLTP: 0,39 litres/mile mixed driving
Own measurement: 0,34 litres/mile mixed driving

Luggage compartment
As a five-seater: 286 litres
As a two-seater: 947 litres

Tires
Dimension: 185/65R15
Type: Spikeless winter
Brand: Nokian Hakkapelitta R3

About the car
Place of manufacture: Onnaing, France
Color: Mica Metallic
Equipment level: Active
Price: NOK 279
Owner: Europcar
Rented via the app Rent
Model: 2020
Mileage: 10000
Km driven: 47
Source: Toyota.no, Vegvesen.no