Key highlights
- Toyota Aqua Hybrid spotted testing in India, likely for powertrain feasibility analysis.
- Features a 1.5L petrol-hybrid system with a claimed 35.8 km/l fuel efficiency.
- Uses bipolar nickel-hydrogen battery tech, a first in the global compact car segment.
In a surprising development, the Toyota Aqua Hybrid has been spotted testing on Indian roads, sparking speculation about the brand’s next move in the hybrid space. While the Aqua hatchback itself may not be destined for Indian showrooms, its appearance suggests Toyota is evaluating its advanced hybrid powertrain for local applications.
The test mule, seen without camouflage, is the second-generation Aqua, launched globally in 2021. It’s based on the TNGA-B platform, which also underpins models like the Yaris and Sienta.
Powertrain: Compact, capable, and incredibly efficient
At the heart of the Aqua is a 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine paired with Toyota’s hybrid system. The combined output is 116 bhp, with the petrol engine contributing 90 bhp and 120 Nm, and the front electric motor adding 80 bhp and 141 Nm.
In international markets, the Aqua is also offered with an E-Four AWD variant, which includes a rear motor rated at 64 bhp and 52 Nm. The system is mated to an e-CVT gearbox, and Toyota claims a staggering 35.8 km/l fuel efficiency—a figure that dwarfs the mileage of current India-spec hybrids like the Hyryder and Grand Vitara.
Battery Tech: A Global first
The Aqua is the world’s first production car to feature a bipolar nickel-hydrogen battery pack. Compared to the previous generation, this battery delivers 1.5x more output per cell and packs 1.4x more cells in the same space.
It also supports bidirectional power flow, allowing the car to power external devices via a 100V/1,500W outlet—a feature that could be a game-changer in emergency scenarios.
Why it matters for India?
Toyota has a history of using global models as test beds for future tech in India. The Aqua’s appearance could signal a feasibility study for introducing this hybrid system in upcoming mass-market models.
Given the rising fuel prices and tightening emission norms, a high-efficiency hybrid powertrain like this could be a strategic fit for both Toyota and Maruti Suzuki’s future offerings.
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