Login
My Garage
Electric hub hero image

Toyota's Kayoibako: A futuristic electric van concept redefining urban mobility

By Mathilda Bartholomew | October 18, 2023

Share

Why not leave a comment?

See all | Add a comment

Although currently a concept, the Kayoibako will be showcased at the Tokyo Motor Show, providing a glimpse into Toyota's innovative approach to electric vans and their vision for the future of urban mobility

Toyota is set to unveil an intriguing concept at the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show—the Kayoibako, a highly customizable electric van inspired by shipping containers. The name itself refers to configurable shipping containers used for the efficient and safe transport of goods between facilities. The concept is positioned as a proposal for mobility, aiming to address both societal issues and individual needs.

The Kayoibako stands out with its boxy design, reminiscent of a shipping container, and its wheels are positioned at the far corners, enhancing stability. Despite its compact size, measuring 3990mm long and 1790mm wide, it offers an impressive cargo bay with dimensions of 3127mm long, 1485mm wide, and 1437mm tall.

Toyota Kayoibako Concept

The front of the van features a transparent panel where the traditional grille would be, flanked by L-shaped LED headlights. The side profile includes slim windows towards the rear of the cargo area and sliding doors on both sides. The roof, primarily composed of glass or transparent material, adds to the overall aesthetic.

Toyota Kayoibako Concept

At the rear, vertical tail lights and a slim rectangular windscreen contribute to the unique design, with a backlit Toyota wordmark completing the look. Toyota emphasizes the Kayoibako's "ultra-expandable design," allowing drivers to customise the van according to their specific needs.

Toyota Kayoibako Concept

Commercial users, for instance, can install display shelving to transform it into a mobile shopfront, or add seating for a shuttle bus configuration. Furthermore, the concept can be adapted for easy wheelchair access. The interior showcases a single seat up front, accompanied by a full-width display and a separate touchscreen on the side of the steering yoke. The absence of a traditional center stack is notable, with controls integrated into a pod that includes the touchscreen, demister controls, power and hazard buttons, a single air vent, and USB-C outlets.

Toyota Kayoibako Concept

Toyota claims that the Kayoibako features customizable hardware and software, allowing drivers to tailor its functionality based on their requirements. The concept is designed to seamlessly integrate into smart grids and other intelligent social systems, highlighting its potential in future mobility solutions.

Toyota Kayoibako Concept

Although currently a concept, the Kayoibako will be showcased at the Tokyo Motor Show, providing a glimpse into Toyota's innovative approach to electric vans and their vision for the future of urban mobility. The exhibition, running from October 26 to November 5, will allow attendees to explore the possibilities of this unique and adaptable electric van concept.

Related Articles

Could the Justy make a comeback? Subaru plots small electric rival to Renault 5
Subaru might bring back the Justy as an all-electric hatch to rival the Renault 5. Here's what we know so far.
Jul 25, 2025
EVs to lose exemption as London Congestion Charge rises in 2026
EV drivers in London will soon have to pay the Congestion Charge, with changes set to make TfL £75 million a year.
Jul 25, 2025
UK vehicle manufacturing down almost 12% in 2025 so far
UK car output plunges to a 72-year low, with production levels not seen since 1953.
Jul 25, 2025
Fuel Me Once: The True Cost of the Taxi of Mum & Dad
Motorway found that UK parents drive over 3,000 miles a year ferrying family - enough to reach Greece and back - spending an average of...
Jul 24, 2025