Vans like the Ford TransitConnect and Nissan NV200 are growing in popularity, which is why Toyota is looking to venture into the market with the funky Urban Utility concept.
Penned by Toyota’s Calty design studio in the U.S., the Urban Utililty — also known as the U2 or U-squared — boasts the dimensions of a compact car combined with the functionality and practicality of a cargo van.
Toyota Urban Utility Concept.
Handout, Toyota
Inside, the Urban Utility’s noteworthy features include a retractable utility bar that can be configured to hold virtually anything and a customizable rail system. The front passenger seat can also be completely removed, the rear seats fold up and there are a vast array of optional colours and materials, depending on what you need out of the Urban Utility.
On the outside, Toyota has fitted the Urban Utility with a durable uderbody to handle gridlock, potholes and tight corners, as well as a customizable side panel, retractable roof panels, rear glass that slides into the tailgate for long loads, among others. Arguably the most ingenious feature has to be the tailgate itself — it can fold down and into a ramp.
The Toyota Urban Utility concept will make its official debut at the Maker Faire in New York City later this month.
Toyota Urban Utility Concept.
Handout, Toyota
