Toyota Manufacturing UK (TMUK) is leading a consortium of partners to evaluate the feasibility of a lightweight battery electric vehicle (BEV) prototype in the L6e category.
Partners in the consortium have secured funding from the UK Government’s DRIVE35 programme via the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC) – a non-profit organisation supporting the development of zero emission technologies and new mobility concepts.
As many European cities reimagine their infrastructure to support low-carbon environments, this feasibility study illustrates Toyota’s ongoing commitment to exploring next-generation mobility solutions. The project aims to improve understanding of the evolving needs of urban populations while accelerating the shift to zero tailpipe emission transport.
The new vehicle study will be undertaken at TMUK’s facility in Derby, with its outcomes to be tested at the University of Derby – a consortium member supporting this research project as part of its net-zero carbon ambitions.
The feasibility study will encompass a range of innovative areas, including an integrated solar roof – designed and developed by Savcor – and enhanced digital connectivity. The study will also evaluate solutions to optimise circularity through the use of recycled lightweight, sustainable materials. It will also explore the potential for component commonisation with ELM’s lightweight last-mile solution.
Drawing inspiration from the FT-Me concept, unveiled in March 2025 as Toyota’s vision for future micromobility in Europe, the study builds on the positive public response to the concept’s design and purpose. The study also aims to explore and validate how Toyota’s vision can be translated into a viable proposition that is aligned with the company’s environmental and mobility goals.
The consortium includes:
– ELM Mobility Limited – designer and producer of a purpose-built urban last mile delivery vehicle.
– Savcor – to lead the solar PV lightweight roof design and integration.
– University of Derby – providing expertise in studying micromobility user behaviour and the viability of solar energy.
– Toyota Motor Europe – supporting the skills development of TMUK team members.
Together, the consortium partners are studying how to shape a smarter and more sustainable future for urban mobility across Europe.
“We are delighted to receive support from the Advanced Propulsion Centre for this important feasibility study. This funding allows us to advance our understanding around the feasibility of creating a cutting-edge battery electric vehicle that addresses the growing demand for sustainable urban mobility. The project acknowledges TMUK’s overall project excellence and will further strengthen the capabilities of our members,” said Dariusz Mikolajczak, Managing Director of TMUK.
