Scoop: Toyota Veloz Hybrid to launch next in 2024

As teased by Toyota and speculated in one of the spyshots by numerous automotive media, the upcoming third-generation of the Toyota Innova will feature a hybrid powertrain as the Japanese automotive giant aims to go green for the developing markets.

The Toyota Innova Zenix Hybrid will not be alone though as OtoDriver reported a scoop that would see the Innova’s little brother also expected to be electrified in the future. According to the scoop, the next electrified models planned are the Veloz Hybrid and the Yaris Cross Hybrid.

Do note that the Yaris Cross reported here isn’t the TNGA-derived model currently sold in developed markets like Japan, Australia, and Singapore. Rather, this Yaris Cross could be built on the DNGA platform that is used on the all-new Vios and the Veloz.

Also read: Scoop: Toyota Rush to be replaced by 7-seater DNGA Yaris Cross, arriving as early as Oct 2023

Sources told the Indonesian automotive publication that the Yaris Cross Hybrid and the Veloz Hybrid would be the second and third electrified models respectively that would be developed in Indonesia. The former is planned to be launched in January 2024 while the Veloz Hybrid could make its debut in June 2024.

Also read: Scoop: Toyota Vios Hybrid currently in development as Indonesia pushes further for electrification

Though the source didn’t want to reveal anything more, they have told OtoDriver that the hybrid powertrain will not be a mild hybrid but rather a full hybrid. Could this hint that the duo might utilise Daihatsu’s e:Smart hybrid system as seen in the Rocky/Raize/Ativa Hybrid?

Also read: Hybrid 101: Demystifying MHEV, HEV, PHEV, and understanding whether Toyota, Honda, or Perodua hybrids are best for you

The e:Smart hybrid system consists of a 1.2-litre WA-VEX engine and an electric motor that makes a combined output of 106 PS/170 Nm but rather, a conventional series-parallel hybrid system like in the Corolla Cross Hybrid.

The engine works as a generator for the electric motor just like Nissan’s e-Power hybrid technology. In essence, it would be more low-cost which could suit these rumoured Toyota hybrid 7-seaters.

Also read: 300 units of Perodua Ativa Hybrid handed to customers; 5-year lease, only RM 500/month

Hence, the unit offers the same feeling as an EV with smooth acceleration and maximum torque. It helps in efficiency as in the case of the Ativa Hybrid which gets a fuel-efficiency figure of 31.3 km/L (3.2 L/100 km) on the Malaysian Driving Cycle (MDC).

Also read: 2022 Perodua Ativa Hybrid in Malaysia: Leasing only, 40% better fuel consumption than regular car!

So how exciting would a Veloz Hybrid be? Could it transition into the Alza Hybrid in the future but this time not as a loan-only model like the Ativa Hybrid?

Also read: Here's the explanation of why you can't buy the Perodua Ativa Hybrid