The first-ever Toyota Alphard and Vellfire PHEV models are now available in Japan.
Toyota is bringing plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) variants of their popular Alphard and Vellfire to Japan starting 31 January 2025. On top of that, the existing petrol and hybrid models also get some minor upgrades.
Features Of The New PHEV Models
The PHEV models combine a 2.5L four cylinder engine with a centrally-mounted underfloor battery and an electric motor, which Toyota refers to as a ‘high-output density drive motor’. This electric motor delivers up to 306PS and allows up to 73km of pure electric driving when the battery is fully charged. Speaking of charging, the Alphard and Vellfire PHEV models take about 38 minutes to recover 80% of their capacity with DC rapid charging. Toyota has also engineered a number of nifty features.
One of which is a 1,500W external power supply function, which can be used to power appliances during blackouts, emergencies and outdoor use. An optional Vehicle to Home system allows electricity stored in the vehicle to power a house for up to 5.5 days. A ‘My Room Mode’ allows the car to turn into a comfortable interior space with the air cond and audio systems running while charging.
Other features exclusive to the PHEV models include:
- a new Smooth Stop control system that suppresses sudden nose-dives when decelerating
- a reduction in engine noise by increasing motor assist and suppressing engine revolutions, plus the addition of sound insulation material to the instrument panel, doors and body frame
- Auto BEV/HEV modes that anticipate which sections of the route will require which sort of power
Toyota expects to sell 200 units of the PHEV models a month with total sales of Alphard and Vellfire models expected to hover around 8,600 units a month.
Improvements To Petrol And Hybrid Models
As we mentioned earlier, the petrol and hybrid models also got a small update: they now feature a Digital Inner Mirror with built-in dash cams (front and rear) as standard. The higher tier models get a 15-speaker JBL premium sound system and a 14″ rear-seat entertainment system. A new Precious Metal body colour for the Vellfire has been added too. Finally, there’s a new 8-seater X grade for the Alphard HEV variant.
