Daihatsu electric mini commercial vehicles debut with e-Hijet Cargo and e-Atrai BEVs

On February 2, Daihatsu Motor announced the market introduction of its first mass-produced battery electric vehicles, the e-Hijet Cargo mini commercial vehicle and the e-Atrai passenger and commercial dual-purpose variant. Based on the gasoline-powered Hijet Cargo and Atrai, these models respond to rising demand for electrified solutions in urban and last-mile delivery operations.

Daihatsu electric mini commercial vehicles built on shared BEV architecture

The e-Hijet Cargo and e-Atrai adopt the newly developed e-SMART ELECTRIC BEV system, created jointly by Daihatsu, Suzuki, and Toyota. This system has been optimized specifically for mini vehicles, enabling electrification while retaining the compact packaging and practicality required in the kei commercial segment. Both models share identical exterior dimensions of 3,395 mm in length, 1,475 mm in width, and 1,890 mm in height, along with a 2,450 mm wheelbase. This common footprint ensures compatibility with existing logistics use cases while maintaining maneuverability in dense urban environments.

Powertrain, range, and driving performance

Battery layout and efficiency

By installing the e-Axle on the rear drive axle and placing a high-capacity 36.6 kWh thin lithium-ion battery beneath the floor, the vehicles deliver a cruising range of 257 km in WLTC mode. This configuration preserves interior space and loading capacity, addressing a key concern for commercial operators.

Output and vehicle dynamics

Maximum output is rated at 47 kW with peak torque of 126 Nm, providing responsive acceleration suitable for stop-and-go delivery cycles. The low-mounted battery lowers the center of gravity, improving handling stability, while BEV-specific structural reinforcements enhance overall rigidity. Ride comfort is further improved through newly designed suspension components.

Charging capability and safety features

As standard equipment, the models include an external power supply function with AC 100V output and a fast-charging inlet that also supports Vehicle to Home functionality. Using fast charging, the battery can be replenished from the low battery warning level to 80% in approximately 50 minutes, supporting operational uptime. Preventive safety is addressed through the latest Smart Assist system. This includes collision warning functions and collision-avoidance support braking for both vehicles and pedestrians, aligning the electric variants with current safety expectations in the segment.

Pricing, production, and sales targets

The e-Hijet Cargo is priced at JPY 3,146,000, while the e-Atrai is offered at JPY 3,465,000. Production will be carried out at Daihatsu Motor Kyushu Co., Ltd.’s Oita (Nakatsu) Plant No.1, where mixed-model production with gasoline-powered vehicles is achieved on existing lines without introducing dedicated BEV equipment. Combined monthly sales for the two Daihatsu electric mini commercial vehicles are targeted at 300 units, reflecting a measured rollout strategy as electrification expands within the kei commercial vehicle market.