Toyota’s IMV 0 Platform Could Spawn Base Variants of Fortuner

In the Japan Mobility Show, Toyota showcased the FT-Se electric sports car concept based on an old-school ladder frame and ICE-powered IMV 0 concept. It reflects Toyota’s commitment to providing its customers with diverse products for diverse applications and needs. Its new IMV 0 platform is specifically designed for customers who don’t want EVs and are looking for more affordable options for flagship offerings.

The IMV 0 platforms share origin from the IMV project, which was executed to design Toyota’s flagship offerings like Hilux, Fortuner, and Innova.

Though IMV 0 has been considered primarily a pickup truck platform concept, the new age thinking gives boundless customization opportunities. This single-cab chassis can support multiple body options for diverse needs and applications. The platform can be used for a food truck, coffee bar, camper for safaris, and rescue ambulance. The boxy design gives it an attractive look and feel with a retro twist.

Toyota IMV 0 Platform’s Cost Effectiveness

The leading automaker admits that the prices of Toyota vehicles have increased with the increasing features and regulations, and many of its original customers can no longer afford their products. Considering the cost barrier, the automaker decided to develop the IMV 0 platform that serves the everyday needs of most Toyota car and pickup buyers.

Toyota has used its most tried-and-tested IMV platform as a base to develop IMV 0, which can significantly reduce cost by optimizing the design, using lighter materials, and rationalizing equipment and features. With the limited number of features and equipment, Toyota customers can save money on selected offerings. But the question arises: will customers accept it?

Hao Quoc Tien, president of TMAP, stated that Toyota must be smart when deciding what feature to keep and remove. He also hinted that several customers in ASEAN regions would be willing to accept the pickup for sheer utility, even if it lacks some features to save some money.

Can It Make a More Affordable Fortuner?

Quoc Tien said that the platform will not only be limited to pickups but can also be used to configure SUV bodies, just like we find Fortuner on the IMV platform. However, he said it’s a different project, and they are working on it.

Since the on-road price of Fortuner currently reaches around 60 lakh, the automaker needs to offer a more affordable option, possibly with IMV 0. The new platform will not compromise on vehicle size but could have a limited number of features and a more affordable and decent powertrain. There could be a 2.4-liter diesel engine from Innova instead of a 2.8-liter diesel powertrain from Fortuner. The IMV 0 variant could also include a strong hybrid option, a 2.0 hybrid option in Innova Hycross. However, Toyota does not plan to offer any EV version with this IMV 0 due to the complex structure for electrification.

The IMV 0 pickup could be launched in 2025 by registering an initial debut in ASEAN regions, where the demand for pickups is strong. Since the Toyota Hilux is overpriced, Indian customers can expect the launch of this pickup. However, there is no official talk about the SUV yet, but customers can expect its launch a year after the pickup.