Toyota reveals A-BAT pick-up concept
Toyota A-BAT pick-up concept
Author: Robin Brown
Published: 14 January 2008
Toyota has debuted its A-BAT pick-up concept vehicle in Detroit at the 2008 North American International Auto Show.
Designed for leisure and business use, Toyota says the four-seat A-BAT will be able to handle cruising, urban use and off-road work.
Hybrid Synergy Drive technology and solar panels in the instrument panel capture provide the truck with some eco credentials, while 19-inch wheels, bold grille and ´military truck-inspired´ design provide the requisite ´yee-ha´ machismo.
The A-BAT features a four-foot bed under the floor, sliding roof panel, fold-down midgate and open tailgate to provide extra space and versatility.
The bed includes tailgate lighting for illuminating the load in the bed, a first aid kit and flashlight integrated into the tailgate, sliding tie downs, and an AC power outlet.
The A-BAT even comes with a large sliding drawer beneath the bed, accessible without opening the tailgate.
A portable power pack offers AC and DC for powering tools, a laptop computer or assisting a vehicle jump start.
Inside the A-BAT has a retractable portable navigation unit with a seven-inch diagonal screen and Wi-Fi internet. Other advanced features include a port for portable device assistant synchronisation and a hard drive for digital music.
The solar panels on the dash recapture energy from the sun to assist in the charging of the navigation unit, portable power pack and backlit information displays.
"This concept is the next evolution of the compact truck," said Kevin Hunter, president of Calty Design Research. "We were able to create a compact truck that´s utilitarian, has an original profile compared to other pickup trucks, has a ´small, but tough´ character and is economical to operate.
"The A-BAT is a fun-to-drive, practical package that reflects Toyota´s environmental sustainability message.
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