Toyota reveals U2 concept for the do-it-yourself enthusiasts

Toyota USA has determined what its customers want, and that, apparently, is a van. The U²  concept car is officially classified as an SUV, but with a big, box-like rear, similar to Toyota’s own Bb but in a bigger size, and to Honda’s Element. And there’s no sign that Bono and company will be endorsing the car. The U²  car was created as a nod to do-it-yourself enthusiasts.

Customizable interior

The Toyota Calty design studio conceived U² as a flexible, functional gadget, drawing their inspiration from modern entrepreneurship and Americans’ traditional love of adventure and outdoor pursuits that involve plenty of gear and equipment. The U² concept has an open architecture and is made from robust materials that reflect a no-nonsense urban style. It has practicality built-in, with a roll-back roof and a tailgate that can be folded down to create a ramp. A rail system makes it easy for owners to customize the interior just the way they want it. It needed to be easily adaptable for individual on-the-go needs, witnessed in details such as a retractable utility bar that can do anything from hold a desk to provide hooks for shopping bags. The side windows flip up, so it’s easy to reach in from the roadside.

Other highlights include: –

• Folding, removable front passenger seat
• Fold-up rear seats
• New shift design with an intuitive switch for park, drive and reverse
• New colour and trim material choices

Toyota research found the fast-growing market for small SUVs seeks greater usefulness, but a smaller vehicle footprint. U²is the size of a compact car, but has the functionality of a traditional pick-up and the spaciousness of a cargo van. It also answers other urban driver priorities in delivering good fuel economy and being easy to manoeuvre, load and unload.

Exterior designed for city life

City streets call for a vehicle that can deal with bumper-to-traffic, potholes and tight turns. Toyota’s U² concept tackles these demands with a highly durable underbody and bodywork that’s tough as a handtool and which comes with customisable side panels. The look is modern and characterful, too, evident in details such as the slightly chunky proportions and circular doorhandles.

Exterior highlights include: –

• Retracting roof panels
• Opening rear glass that slides into the tailgate
• Drop-down tailgate that forms a load ramp
• Replaceable protective ridges on the tailgate