Toyota 2019 Electric Car Review Features and Performance Insights

The Toyota 2019 electric car delivers a refined blend of efficiency and reliability, marking Toyota’s serious entry into the EV market with an EPA-estimated 114 MPGe. Its 150-kW electric motor offers smooth, responsive acceleration and a quiet ride, while advanced driver-assist features and a user-friendly infotainment system enhance everyday usability.

Key Takeaways

• Impressive range: Up to 250 miles on a single charge for confident daily driving.
• Fast charging: Replenishes 80% battery in under 30 minutes with DC fast charging.
• Smooth performance: Instant torque delivers responsive, quiet acceleration ideal for city commutes.
• Advanced safety: Comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 for added peace of mind.
• Spacious interior: Ample legroom and cargo space enhance comfort for passengers and gear.

The Dawn of a New Era: Toyota’s 2019 Electric Car Ambitions

For decades, Toyota has been a titan in the automotive world, renowned for its reliability, innovation, and hybrid dominance—most notably with the Prius. However, the 2019 model year marked a pivotal shift in Toyota’s strategy as the company began to embrace the electric vehicle (EV) revolution in earnest. While Toyota had long championed hybrid and hydrogen fuel cell technologies, 2019 signaled a more concrete commitment to fully electric vehicles, setting the stage for a new chapter in the brand’s legacy. This wasn’t just about adding another car to the lineup—it was about reimagining Toyota’s role in a world rapidly transitioning toward zero-emission transportation.

The 2019 Toyota electric car landscape wasn’t defined by a single, mass-market EV like Tesla’s Model 3 or Nissan’s Leaf. Instead, Toyota took a multifaceted approach, introducing electric versions of existing models, unveiling concept vehicles, and announcing aggressive global EV plans. From the Toyota C-HR EV in China to the Toyota RAV4 EV revival in select markets, the 2019 year was a turning point. This review delves into the features, performance, technology, and market strategy behind Toyota’s 2019 electric car efforts, offering a comprehensive look at how the automaker positioned itself in the rapidly evolving EV ecosystem. Whether you’re a long-time Toyota loyalist or an EV enthusiast curious about the brand’s electric ambitions, this deep dive provides essential insights into Toyota’s electrifying journey.

Toyota’s 2019 Electric Car Lineup: Models and Global Strategy

Unlike competitors that launched flagship EVs in 2019, Toyota’s approach was more nuanced—focused on regional rollouts, pilot programs, and strategic partnerships. The company didn’t release a single, globally available electric car under the Toyota brand in 2019, but it laid the groundwork for future models through localized launches and joint ventures. This section explores the key electric vehicles Toyota introduced or promoted during the 2019 model year.

Toyota C-HR EV: The First All-Electric Production Model

The Toyota C-HR EV was the first fully electric production vehicle launched under the Toyota brand. Released in China in late 2019, it marked a significant milestone for Toyota’s global EV ambitions. Built on the same TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform as the gasoline-powered C-HR, the electric version retained the model’s bold, coupe-like styling but replaced the internal combustion engine with a fully electric powertrain.

• Target Market: Primarily China, where Toyota partnered with local manufacturers like FAW Toyota and GAC Toyota to produce and distribute the vehicle.
• Battery and Range: Equipped with a 54.3 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, the C-HR EV delivered an estimated 400 km (249 miles) of range under the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) standard—a figure that translates to roughly 300 km (186 miles) in real-world conditions.
• Charging: Supported both AC (7.5 kW) and DC fast charging (50 kW). A full charge via AC took about 8 hours, while DC fast charging could replenish the battery to 80% in approximately 50 minutes.

Practical Tip: For urban commuters in Chinese megacities, the C-HR EV’s compact size and 300 km real-world range made it ideal for daily use, especially with access to public charging infrastructure. However, long-distance travel required careful route planning due to limited fast-charging networks in 2019.

Toyota RAV4 EV (Second Generation): A Revival with Limited Reach

Toyota resurrected the RAV4 EV in 2019, but with a twist: this was not a standalone Toyota project. Instead, it was a collaboration with Tesla Motors, leveraging Tesla’s electric powertrain technology. This second-generation RAV4 EV was available in California and a few other select U.S. markets, primarily through fleet sales and limited retail availability.

• Powertrain: Utilized a Tesla-sourced 150 kW electric motor and a 42 kWh battery pack, offering a combined output of 201 horsepower.
• Range: EPA-estimated range was 113 miles (182 km), significantly less than the C-HR EV but suitable for short commutes and urban driving.
• Performance: 0–60 mph in about 7.5 seconds, with smooth, quiet acceleration characteristic of EVs.

Example: A California-based rideshare driver reported using the RAV4 EV for daily passenger transport, praising its low operating costs and zero tailpipe emissions. However, the limited range meant frequent charging, especially during peak hours.

Concept Vehicles and Future Visions

In 2019, Toyota also showcased several electric concept vehicles at major auto shows, signaling its long-term EV roadmap. These included:

• Toyota Concept-i: A futuristic, AI-integrated EV emphasizing human-machine interaction and autonomous driving features.
• Toyota e-Palette: An autonomous, modular electric platform designed for ride-sharing, delivery, and mobile retail.
• Toyota LQ Concept: A compact urban EV with advanced AI and emotional recognition technology.

While not production-ready in 2019, these concepts demonstrated Toyota’s vision for a connected, sustainable mobility future—far beyond just building electric cars.

Performance and Driving Experience: How Do Toyota’s 2019 EVs Handle?

Performance in electric vehicles goes beyond horsepower and acceleration—it encompasses ride quality, handling, energy efficiency, and driver engagement. Toyota’s 2019 electric cars, though limited in availability, offered a unique blend of the brand’s signature reliability with the responsiveness of electric powertrains.

Acceleration and Power Delivery

Both the C-HR EV and RAV4 EV delivered instant torque, a hallmark of electric motors. The C-HR EV’s 150 kW (201 hp) motor provided brisk acceleration, reaching 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) in approximately 8.0 seconds. While not a sports car, the electric C-HR felt nimble and responsive in city traffic.

The RAV4 EV, using Tesla’s proven motor, offered slightly better low-end torque and a smoother power curve. Its 7.5-second 0–60 mph time was competitive for a compact SUV of its era. However, the heavier curb weight (due to the battery) meant it wasn’t as agile as smaller EVs.

Tip: To maximize acceleration efficiency, use the “B” mode (regenerative braking mode) in both vehicles. This increases energy recovery during deceleration, extending range and reducing brake wear.

Handling and Ride Comfort

Toyota’s TNGA platform, used in the C-HR EV, provided a solid foundation for handling. The low center of gravity—thanks to the floor-mounted battery pack—enhanced cornering stability. Independent suspension with optimized damping ensured a comfortable ride over rough urban roads.

The RAV4 EV, built on a modified version of the previous-generation RAV4 chassis, had slightly softer suspension tuning, prioritizing comfort over sportiness. This made it ideal for daily commutes but less engaging for spirited driving.

• Steering: Electric power steering in both models was precise and well-weighted, with minimal feedback from the road.
• Noise and Vibration: Exceptionally quiet, with minimal wind and road noise—common in EVs due to the absence of engine noise.

Regenerative Braking and Energy Efficiency

Regenerative braking systems in Toyota’s 2019 EVs allowed drivers to recapture energy during deceleration. The C-HR EV offered multiple levels of regen, adjustable via paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. At the highest setting, it enabled one-pedal driving in stop-and-go traffic.

The RAV4 EV had a fixed regen level, but its integration with Tesla’s powertrain ensured smooth transitions between regen and friction braking. Both vehicles achieved 2.5–3.0 km/kWh efficiency in mixed driving conditions—slightly below top-tier EVs but acceptable given their older battery chemistry.

Technology and Interior Features: Smart, Connected, and Practical

Toyota’s 2019 electric cars weren’t just about going electric—they integrated advanced technology to enhance safety, convenience, and connectivity. While not as futuristic as Tesla’s infotainment systems, Toyota’s approach emphasized usability and integration with existing ecosystems.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Both the C-HR EV and RAV4 EV featured Toyota’s Entune 3.0 infotainment system, which included:

• 7-inch touchscreen (8-inch in higher trims)
• Apple CarPlay (standard in RAV4 EV; optional in C-HR EV)
• Bluetooth, USB, and Wi-Fi hotspot
• Over-the-air (OTA) updates for select features

The interface was intuitive but not as responsive as some competitors. Voice commands worked well for basic functions like navigation and phone calls, but complex queries often failed.

Example: A C-HR EV owner in Shanghai used the built-in navigation to locate nearby charging stations, but found the system occasionally outdated—highlighting the need for regular OTA updates.

Safety and Driver Assistance (Toyota Safety Sense)

All 2019 Toyota electric cars came standard with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) 2.0, a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS):

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
• Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (Full-Speed Range)
• Automatic High Beams
• Road Sign Assist

These systems used radar and camera sensors to monitor the vehicle’s surroundings. In real-world testing, the pre-collision system proved effective in avoiding low-speed collisions, while the adaptive cruise control reduced driver fatigue on highways.

Interior Design and Practicality

The C-HR EV retained the gasoline model’s bold, asymmetric dashboard and high-quality materials. However, the floor-mounted battery reduced rear seat headroom and cargo space slightly. With 377 liters (13.3 cu ft) of trunk space, it was adequate for daily use but not ideal for large families.

The RAV4 EV offered more interior space, with a flat load floor and 73.4 cu ft of cargo space when rear seats were folded. The cabin featured soft-touch materials and a user-friendly layout, though the infotainment screen was small by 2019 standards.

Tip: Use the “ECO” mode to reduce HVAC power consumption and extend range. In winter, precondition the cabin while charging to avoid draining the battery when driving.

Battery, Charging, and Range: Real-World Efficiency and Infrastructure

For any electric car, battery performance, charging speed, and real-world range are critical factors. Toyota’s 2019 EVs used proven lithium-ion technology but faced challenges in range and charging infrastructure—especially outside major urban centers.

Battery Technology and Degradation

Both the C-HR EV and RAV4 EV used lithium-ion NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) battery packs, known for high energy density and long cycle life. Toyota offered an 8-year/160,000 km (100,000 miles) battery warranty, covering defects and capacity loss beyond 70%.

• C-HR EV: 54.3 kWh, 186 miles real-world range
• RAV4 EV: 42 kWh, 113 miles EPA range

Battery degradation was minimal in early models. A 2022 study of C-HR EVs in China showed less than 5% capacity loss after 3 years of daily use—a testament to Toyota’s battery management system.

Charging Options and Infrastructure

Charging was a mixed bag in 2019:

• AC Charging: 7.5 kW onboard charger (C-HR EV), 6.6 kW (RAV4 EV). Full charge: 7–8 hours
• DC Fast Charging: 50 kW max (C-HR EV), 44 kW (RAV4 EV). 80% in 50–60 minutes
• Charging Network: Toyota partnered with local providers—State Grid in China, ChargePoint in the U.S.—but coverage was sparse in rural areas.

Practical Example: A RAV4 EV owner in San Diego relied on workplace charging and public DC fast chargers. They noted that charging at Level 2 (240V) at home overnight was the most convenient option.

Range Management and Cold Weather Performance

In cold climates, both vehicles experienced 15–25% range reduction due to battery chemistry and cabin heating. The C-HR EV included a heat pump option in some trims, which improved efficiency by 20% compared to resistive heating.

Tip: Precondition the car while charging to warm the battery and cabin before driving. This can improve range and charging speed in winter.

Toyota’s Long-Term EV Strategy: Lessons from 2019 and Beyond

While 2019 was a transitional year, it provided crucial insights into Toyota’s electric vehicle strategy. The company learned valuable lessons about battery sourcing, charging infrastructure, and consumer preferences—lessons that shaped its future EV roadmap.

Strategic Partnerships and Joint Ventures

Toyota’s collaboration with Tesla for the RAV4 EV was a short-term solution to enter the EV market quickly. However, it also highlighted the need for in-house battery and motor development. By 2020, Toyota began investing heavily in solid-state batteries and in-house EV platforms (e.g., e-TNGA).

Partnerships with Panasonic and BYD in China ensured a stable supply of batteries and access to local expertise.

Market Response and Consumer Feedback

Early adopters praised Toyota’s reliability and safety features but criticized the limited range and slow charging speeds. In China, the C-HR EV sold well in cities with strong EV incentives, but struggled in rural areas due to charging concerns.

Feedback led to improvements in the 2020–2022 models, including larger batteries, faster charging, and better infotainment.

The Road Ahead: From 2019 to 2025 and Beyond

By 2025, Toyota plans to launch 15 fully electric models, including the Toyota bZ4X (the first global EV under the “bZ” sub-brand). The 2019 electric car experiments laid the foundation for this expansion, proving that Toyota could deliver reliable, practical EVs—even if not yet class-leading in range or tech.

Conclusion: Toyota’s Electric Evolution in Focus

The Toyota 2019 electric car story is one of cautious innovation and strategic positioning. While not a Tesla-style disruption, Toyota’s approach was grounded in realism: leveraging existing platforms, targeting key markets, and prioritizing reliability and safety. The C-HR EV and RAV4 EV may not have dominated the global EV market, but they served as essential stepping stones.

For buyers, these vehicles offered a low-risk entry into electric mobility, backed by Toyota’s legendary durability and service network. For the industry, they signaled that even conservative automakers were adapting to the electric future. As Toyota rolls out its bZ series and solid-state battery technology, the lessons from 2019 will continue to shape its electric journey. Whether you’re considering a used 2019 Toyota EV or waiting for the next generation, one thing is clear: Toyota is no longer just a hybrid pioneer—it’s becoming a serious player in the electric car revolution.

Model	Battery Capacity	Range (EPA/NEDC)	Max Charging Speed	0–60 mph Time	Market Availability
Toyota C-HR EV	54.3 kWh	249 mi (NEDC) / ~186 mi (real-world)	50 kW DC	8.0 sec	China (2019)
Toyota RAV4 EV (Gen 2)	42 kWh	113 mi (EPA)	44 kW DC	7.5 sec	California, USA (2019)

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the Toyota 2019 electric car?

The Toyota 2019 electric car, including models like the Prius Prime and upcoming C-HR EV, offers advanced tech like a 11.6-inch touchscreen, Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, and an estimated 25-40 miles of electric-only range. It blends eco-friendly performance with Toyota’s signature reliability.

How does the performance of the 2019 Toyota electric car compare to competitors?

The 2019 Toyota electric car delivers smooth acceleration and a comfortable ride, though its electric range lags behind rivals like the Nissan Leaf. However, its hybrid synergy drive and energy-efficient design make it ideal for urban commutes.

Is the Toyota 2019 electric car available nationwide?

Initially, the 2019 Toyota electric car (e.g., C-HR EV) was rolled out in select markets, primarily in California and other ZEV states. Buyers should check local dealerships for availability and incentives.

What is the battery life and charging time for the 2019 Toyota electric car?

The 2019 Toyota electric car features a lithium-ion battery that charges fully in 5.5 hours using a Level 2 charger (240V). Toyota estimates the battery retains 80% capacity after 10 years or 100,000 miles.

Does the Toyota 2019 electric car qualify for tax credits?

Yes, depending on the model and region, the 2019 Toyota electric car may qualify for federal tax credits up to $7,500 and additional state incentives. Check the IRS and local EV incentive programs for details.

What safety features does the 2019 Toyota electric car include?

The 2019 Toyota electric car comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and automatic emergency braking. It also earned a 5-star NHTSA safety rating in most trims.