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Toyota has unveiled their new FT-EV concept, a compact urban based on the iQ minicar (European market) which powered by an all-electric drivetrain at last week’s Detroit Auto Show. The Japanese automaker will sell their own micro EV, urban commuting car (50 miles on a charge) by 2012.

Toyota FT-EV for 2012 will be at least like its concept. But Toyota is still looking for the best combination for their car. What platform will be? what model will be battery powered? and the new vehicle’s range between charges.

Toyota FT-EV concept now uses a lithium-ion battery which takes about six hours using a 110-volt outlet or about two hours using a 220-volt outlet and a 50-mile range.

Battery development and consumer acceptance of the limited range are the biggest strainers to the roll-out of electric vehicles remain. But with something refinement Toyota expects that the electric car will become a common option for the second or third car.

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