This is a first gen Toyota RAV4 EV, avaliable from 1997 to 2003. It was first only avaliable on a limited basis and later possible for businesses, cities, or utilities to lease them starting in 2001. In 2003, Toyota sold 328 RAV4 EVs to the general public, afterwards the program was terminated. Overall, approximately 1,900 units were sold or leased through 2003, of which approximately 1,500 in the U.S. and 400 in Japan.
The first gen RAV4 EV had Panasonic 27.4 kWh NiMH batteries and an electric motor, allowing for a top speed of 78 mph (governed) and an EPA rated range of 95 miles. The MSRP was $42,000, but many rebates and grants brought the price closer to $29,000 to $33,000. The specs are by no means impressive, but what is impressive is that this is a 25 year old EV still on the road.
A first gen Toyota RAV4 EV still around in the wild
