Toyota Manufacturing UK (TMUK) is leading a consortium of partners to evaluate the feasibility of a lightweight battery electric vehicle (BEV) prototype in a new match-funded project.

The prototype draws inspiration from the FT-Me concept unveiled by Toyota in March 2025

Backed by £15m in government funding, the project will explore the feasibility of electric mobility solutions designed to meet the growing demand in the UK for zero-emission vehicles.

The consortium has secured funding from the UK government’s DRIVE35 programme via the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC), which supports development of zero-emission technologies and new mobility concepts.

The study will be undertaken at TMUK’s Burnaston facility in Derby, with outcomes to be tested at the University of Derby.

The prototype sits in the L6e (light quadricycle) category and draws inspiration from the FT-Me concept Toyota unveiled in March 2025 as a vision for future micromobility in Europe.

The research will cover a range of innovations, including an integrated solar roof – designed and developed by Savcor – and enhanced digital connectivity. It will also evaluate ways to optimise circularity through using recycled lightweight, sustainable materials, and explore the potential of using components common to the lightweight, last-mile delivery vehicle developed by project partner ELM Mobility.

Dariusz Mikolajczak, TMUK managing director, said: “The funding allows us to advance our understanding around the feasibility of creating a cutting-edge battery electric vehicle that addresses the growing demand for sustainable urban mobility. The study acknowledges TMUK’s overall project excellence and will further strengthen our members’ capabilities.”