The PHEV models of Alphard and Vellfire, which Toyota plans to release in January 2025, are attracting attention as Japan’s first minivan PHEV vehicles. Combining environmental performance and comfort, they offer the best choice for family and business use, with an EV driving equivalent range of 73 km and a variety of features such as low fuel consumption, quietness, and an external power supply function, and they also feature a premium design that incorporates Toyota’s latest technologies.
What is Japan’s first minivan PHEV “Alphard” and “Vellfire
Importance of minivan PHEVs to the market
he Alphard and Vellfire, announced as Japan’s first minivan PHEV, symbolize an important step forward in the automotive industry’s quest to achieve a sustainable society. While plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) have become increasingly popular in the SUV and sedan segments in recent years, options have been limited in the minivan category. This new PHEV model offers a choice that combines environmental performance and comfort, especially for users who need a minivan for family or business use.
The adoption of the PHEV system by Toyota has further advanced its electrification and eco-friendly performance: with an EV driving range of 73 km, it covers a range sufficient for daily use, while offering both low fuel consumption and low emissions performance. In this context, the PHEV models of Alphard and Vellfire are expected to bring new value to the minivan market.
Overview of “Alphard” and “Vellfire
These models, which underwent a full model change in June 2023 and have undergone further evolution, will be joined by a long-awaited PHEV model in the lineup in January 2025. The Alphard and Vellfire PHEV models are priced at 10,650,000 yen (including tax) and 10,850,000 yen (including tax), respectively, reflecting their respective brand characteristics and the latest technologies.
These vehicles feature a high-capacity lithium-ion battery mounted under the floor to achieve a low center of gravity without compromising interior space or ride comfort. In addition, the six-passenger layout allows the vehicle to be flexibly adapted to family and business situations. Thus, it will set a new standard for minivan PHEVs, combining eco-friendly performance and comfort.
Toyota’s Thoughts on Japan’s First Minivan PHEV
In the PHEV model, the company expresses its passionate desire to expand the possibilities of electrification in the minivan category. This reflects the company’s corporate philosophy of contributing to environmental protection while providing an enriched mobility experience. Especially for minivans, which are often driven for long periods of time and used by a large number of people, the improved quietness and comfort are attractive factors.
In addition, PHEV models offer quiet driving in EV mode and advanced technologies such as an external power supply function and V2H (vehicle-to-home) compatibility, making them useful in daily life and in emergencies. Toyota’s efforts are not merely technological innovations, but also a sign of its responsibility to the global environment and its commitment to user satisfaction.
Features of the Alphard and Vellfire PHEV models
2.5L Plug-in Hybrid System Performance
The 2.5L plug-in hybrid system is the first minivan PHEV in Japan. Despite its powerful overall output of 306 PS (225 kW), this system offers excellent fuel economy, achieving 16.7 km/L in WLTC mode. It also features an EV driving equivalent range of 73 km, making it possible to get around on electric power alone for everyday travel.
Furthermore, a large-capacity lithium-ion battery is mounted under the floor to achieve a low center of gravity. This is a revolutionary system that combines the electric performance unique to PHEVs with the practicality of a minivan.
Pursuit of quietness and comfort
PHEV models are especially quiet and comfortable. When driving in electric mode, the engine noise is reduced, making the vehicle quieter and more comfortable for conversation with family and passengers. In addition, the specially designed seats and suspension provide a smooth ride with minimal swaying.
Furthermore, the environmentally friendly design is optimized for pick-up and drop-off times and for driving in urban areas. The noise and vibration during engine startup are minimized, and detailed efforts have been made to ensure the vehicle is comfortable to use, even during times when passengers are concerned about boarding and drop-offs
Contribution to carbon neutrality
As a response to environmental issues, the PHEV model is considered a model that contributes to Toyota’s carbon neutrality. Its electric power-utilizing driving function reduces CO2 emissions, thereby reducing the burden on the global environment.
The PHEV model comes standard with a maximum 1500W AC 100V external power supply function, which not only provides a power source in times of disaster, but can also be used for home energy use (V2H). This enables both ecology and economy, contributing to the construction of a sustainable society.
PHEVモデルならではのエコ性能と経済性
How to charge at home and how much it costs
Toyota’s first minivan PHEV models in Japan, the Alphard and Vellfire, can be easily recharged from a household power source. The large-capacity lithium-ion battery is mounted under the floor and can be charged using a regular household outlet (AC100V).
It also supports quick recharging, with specifications that allow for approximately 80% of the charging to be completed in about 38 minutes. It is important to estimate whether existing gasoline models or PHEVs will be more cost-effective, depending on the user’s intended use and other factors when recharging.
Difference in operating costs between hybrid vehicles and
Compared to hybrid vehicles, PHEV models are more fuel-efficient and economical: PHEV models are equipped with a system that efficiently switches between electric vehicle (EV) and engine operation, allowing them to operate almost exclusively in EV mode for short trips. As a result, fuel savings can be expected.
On the other hand, although hybrid vehicles also boast high fuel efficiency, PHEVs are by far more cost-effective for short-distance travel. This makes PHEV models an attractive option for users who frequently make short trips, such as daily commuting or neighborhood shopping.
Details of tax incentives and their impact
PHEV models are eligible for various tax incentives due to their excellent environmental performance. Specifically, the automobile acquisition tax and weight tax are either exempted or reduced at the time of purchase, and the automobile tax is also reduced if the vehicle meets the criteria for the Greening Special Exception.
These tax benefits reduce the initial cost of the vehicle as well as its long-term maintenance costs. Furthermore, as part of the policy to realize a carbon-neutral society, subsidies for PHEV buyers are expected to be applied. These incentives will be an important deciding factor when considering the purchase of a PHEV.
Market introduction schedule and points of purchase
Release date and test ride information
The PHEV models of the Alphard and Vellfire announced by Toyota for the Japanese market are scheduled for official release on January 31, 2025. The gasoline and partially upgraded hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) models will be released slightly earlier, on January 7, 2025.
No official announcement has yet been made regarding test drive information, but it is likely that test drive opportunities will be offered at Toyota dealerships and major automotive events. Since this is the first minivan PHEV model of note, many customers are expected to make reservations for test drives, so early reservations are recommended once information is available.
Price range and available options
The Alphard and Vellfire PHEV models are priced at 10,650,000 yen (including tax) and 10,850,000 yen (including tax), respectively. Although these prices are in the higher price range, they are acceptable considering the premium specifications, including electric performance with a high-capacity lithium-ion battery and unique design features.
In addition, exclusive 19-inch aluminum wheels with silver spattering paint and ultra-suede ceilings are available as options exclusive to the PHEV models. At the time of purchase, it is important to consider these exclusive features based on your preferences and intended use.
Things to know before you buy
Due to the nature of the first minivan PHEV, there are several factors to consider before purchasing. First, the PHEV model is designed to seat 6 passengers, so be mindful of this if you plan to use it with a family or group that requires seating for 7 to 8 passengers.
In addition, the vehicle’s weight is increased due to the large-capacity battery, which may result in a slightly different driving experience compared to the hybrid model. Furthermore, it is important to confirm in advance the availability of fast charging stations and the availability of charging facilities at home.
Reaction and Expectations for PHEV Models
The Alphard and Vellfire, Japan’s first minivan PHEVs, have garnered significant attention. The market response has already been strong, with particular appreciation for their quietness, comfort, and environmental performance aimed at carbon neutrality.
This model, packed with Toyota’s advanced technologies, is also expected to play a role in establishing new standards not only in the minivan market but also in the eco-car sector. It is expected to attract the support of many users, especially as a model whose true value can be experienced in various situations, such as pick-up and drop-off and long-distance driving.
