The Toyota Proace Verso II SWB 50 kWh (136 Hp) Electric represents a significant stride in Toyota’s electrification strategy within the European market. Launched in April 2021 and produced until August 2022, this second-generation Proace Verso, in its short-wheelbase (SWB) electric variant, serves as a versatile and environmentally conscious minivan, catering to both family and commercial transport needs. Unlike many of Toyota’s internally developed models, the Proace Verso is a result of a collaborative venture, being a rebadged variant of a platform shared with Stellantis (formerly PSA Group) vehicles, including the Peugeot e-Traveller, Citroën ë-Spacetourer, and Opel Zafira-e Life. This strategic partnership allowed Toyota to quickly introduce a competitive electric vehicle into the burgeoning European light commercial vehicle (LCV) and multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) segments, where electrification is rapidly gaining traction due to stringent emissions regulations and growing consumer demand for sustainable mobility solutions. While not sold in the United States, its role in Europe underscores Toyota’s global commitment to expanding its electric vehicle portfolio, offering practical, zero-emission transportation.
Toyota Proace Verso II SWB 50 kWh: A European Electric Minivan
The Proace Verso II SWB Electric is part of a broader trend towards electrification in the European van and MPV market. European regulations regarding emissions in urban areas, coupled with incentives for electric vehicle adoption, have driven demand for vehicles like the Proace Verso. Toyota leveraged a partnership with Stellantis to efficiently enter this market, capitalizing on an existing platform rather than undertaking a full independent development cycle. This allowed for a quicker time-to-market and a competitive price point.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Toyota Proace Verso II SWB 50 kWh (136 Hp) Electric lies a battery-electric powertrain. The electric motor, designated ZK01, is transversely mounted on the front axle, delivering 136 horsepower and 191.77 lb.-ft. of torque. This configuration provides brisk acceleration, particularly advantageous in urban environments. The immediate torque delivery inherent in electric motors offers a responsive driving experience.
Power is supplied by a 50 kWh gross capacity lithium-ion battery pack, positioned under the floor to optimize weight distribution and maintain a low center of gravity. This placement enhances stability and preserves interior space. The battery provides an all-electric range (WLTP) of approximately 136.08 miles, suitable for daily commutes and regional travel. Energy consumption ranges from 40.72 to 42.81 kWh per 100 miles, equating to an impressive 79-83 MPGe. The vehicle’s top speed is electronically limited to 80.78 mph, prioritizing range and efficiency. A single-speed automatic transmission provides a seamless driving experience, eliminating the need for traditional gear changes.
Design & Features
The Toyota Proace Verso II SWB 50 kWh (136 Hp) Electric features a functional and contemporary design typical of modern minivans. Its five-door configuration, including sliding rear doors, provides excellent accessibility, particularly in confined parking spaces. The vehicle is designed to accommodate 8 to 9 passengers, offering flexible seating arrangements for families, shuttle services, or group transport.
With dimensions of 195.24 inches in length, 75.59 inches in width, and 74.41 inches in height, the Proace Verso SWB balances maneuverability with interior spaciousness. The 128.94-inch wheelbase contributes to a stable ride and ample legroom. Cargo versatility is a key strength, with trunk space ranging from 21.29 cubic feet with all seats in use to a maximum of 140.13 cubic feet with the rear seats folded or removed. The vehicle can carry a maximum load of 2019.43 lbs. and tow a braked trailer weighing up to 2204.62 lbs., enhancing its utility.
The Proace Verso II SWB utilizes an independent McPherson strut front suspension and a wishbone rear suspension for a comfortable ride and stable handling, even when fully loaded. Disc brakes on all four wheels, coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), provide enhanced stopping power and safety. Electric power steering ensures light and responsive steering, facilitating easy maneuvering. The vehicle rides on 225/55 R17 tires mounted on 17-inch wheel rims, offering a balance of grip, comfort, and efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Proace Verso II SWB |
| Type (Engine) | 50 kWh (136 Hp) Electric |
| Start of Production | April, 2021 |
| End of Production | August, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body Type | Minivan |
| Seats | 8-9 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Maximum Speed | 80.78 mph (130 km/h) |
| Weight-to-Power Ratio | 13.9 kg/Hp, 71.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-Torque Ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm, 137.3 Nm/tonne |
| Gross Battery Capacity | 50 kWh |
| Battery Technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery Location | Below the floor |
| All-Electric Range (WLTP) | 136.08 mi (219 km) |
| Average Energy Consumption (WLTP) | 40.72 – 42.81 kWh/100 mi (25.3-26.6 kWh/100 km) |
| MPGe Equivalent | 83 – 79 MPGe |
| Electric Motor Power | 136 Hp |
| Electric Motor Torque | 191.77 lb.-ft. (260 Nm) |
| Electric Motor Model/Code | ZK01 |
| Electric Motor Location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric Motor Type | Synchronous |
| System Power | 136 Hp |
| System Torque | 191.77 lb.-ft. (260 Nm) |
| Kerb Weight | 4175.56 lbs. (1894 kg) |
| Max. Weight | 6194.99 lbs. (2810 kg) |
| Max Load | 2019.43 lbs. (916 kg) |
| Trunk (Boot) Space – Minimum | 21.29 cu. ft. (603 l) |
| Trunk (Boot) Space – Maximum | 140.13 cu. ft. (3968 l) |
| Permitted Trailer Load with Brakes (12%) | 2204.62 lbs. (1000 kg) |
| Permitted Towbar Download | 132.28 lbs. (60 kg) |
| Length | 195.24 in. (4959 mm) |
| Width | 75.59 in. (1920 mm) |
| Height | 74.41 in. (1890 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 128.94 in. (3275 mm) |
| Front Track | 64.06 in. (1627 mm) |
| Rear (Back) Track | 62.99 in. (1600 mm) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the front wheels. |
| Drive Wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of Gears and Type of Gearbox | 1 gear, automatic transmission |
| Front Suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear Suspension | Wishbone |
| Front Brakes | Disc |
| Rear Brakes | Disc |
| Assisting Systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering Type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power Steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires Size | 225/55 R17 |
| Wheel Rims Size | 17 inches |
Legacy and Market Impact in Europe
The Toyota Proace Verso II SWB 50 kWh (136 Hp) Electric plays a crucial role in Toyota’s strategy to electrify its commercial and passenger vehicle lineup in Europe. As part of a collaborative effort, it shares its platform with several key players in the European market, including the Peugeot e-Traveller, Citroën ë-Spacetourer, Opel Zafira-e Life, and more recently, the Fiat E-Ulysse. This multi-brand approach to a single platform, originally developed by PSA Group, has allowed each manufacturer to offer a competitive electric minivan without incurring the full development costs individually. For Toyota, it provided a quick entry into the electric minivan segment, complementing its existing hybrid and fuel-cell vehicle offerings.
In the European market, the Proace Verso Electric competes against a growing number of electric vans and minivans, including its platform siblings, as well as offerings from Mercedes-Benz (e-Vito Tourer, EQV) and Volkswagen (ID. Buzz Cargo/Pro). Its reputation is built on Toyota’s renowned reliability and customer service, combined with the practical design and efficiency of its shared platform. It appeals strongly to businesses seeking to reduce their carbon footprint for shuttle services, delivery fleets, or corporate transport, as well as large families looking for an eco-friendly and spacious vehicle for long-distance travel within range limitations or daily chores.
The introduction of the electric Proace Verso underscored the increasing demand for zero-emission alternatives in the LCV and MPV sectors, driven by stricter urban emissions zones and rising fuel costs. While its production run from April 2021 to August 2022 was relatively short, it effectively demonstrated Toyota’s capability to offer a fully electric solution in this segment and paved the way for future iterations or replacements that will continue to evolve with battery technology and charging infrastructure. Its impact lies in its contribution to diversifying the electric vehicle options available to European consumers and businesses, reinforcing the shift towards sustainable transportation solutions across the continent.
