Toyota has revealed the first images and details of the Urban Utility (U2) concept, scheduled to make its official public appearance during the World Maker Faire event in New York City later this month.

Toyota U2 concept detailed

The Toyota U2 concept was developed by Toyota’s Calty Design Research, the same crew responsible for the FT-1 concept. The concept is further billed by the automaker as “a compact car with the functionality of a compact truck and the spaciousness of a cargo van. It satisfies other key urban driver priorities including good fuel economy, manoeuvrability in city environments and easy loading and unloading.”

The styling comes across as very unique, with a rear end that has a sliding retractable roof and a rather large tailgate that can also double as a charging ramp. The distinctive styling continues inside with a highly minimalist approach focussing on ergonomics and functionality. Interior highlights included a unique instrument cluster and an iPad that doubles as an infotainment system, a centre console with a ‘floating’ arm rest and a unique gear selector, as well as a removable front passenger seat and a rail system that can to hold everything from baskets to bike stands.

“Toyota saw an opportunity for a new approach to an urban vehicle based on increasing re-urbanization of our cities and urban drivers’ desire for flexibility, fun and manoeuvrability,” said Kevin Hunter, president of Calty, Toyota’s North American design studio.

“Calty keeps a number of projects concealed while exploring ideas and products. Revealing a project like the U2 gives people a window into the constant innovation that happens inside Toyota and our Calty studios and one possible future for urban mobility.”