Daihatsu Vizion-F Concept Is A Modern EV Take On The Aging Gran Max LCV

–>

The Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show opened its doors with a few interesting debuts of concepts and production models, mostly focused on the ASEAN region. The coolest exhibit in the Daihatsu booth is the Vizion-F, a fully electric LCV concept based on the Gran Max.

The automaker was coy on details but said that the Vizion-F concept is a compact LCV fitted with a battery-electric powertrain. The goal of the concept is to showcase “new possibilities toward electrification of commercial vehicles” for Indonesia’s growing economy. It was locally designed and produced by Astra Daihatsu Motor (ADM), based on the Gran Max Van.

From the outside, it is really hard to tell that the futuristic Vizion-F is a re-bodied and electrified Gran Max, even though the models feature a very similar footprint and proportions. The electric panel van has a clean design with thin LED lighting units on both ends. The front bumper has no intakes, with a dotted pattern housing a yellow EV logo, while the Daihatsu emblem is illuminated. The windshield is visually connected to the side windows thanks to the black A-pillars, with a pair of electrically-operated sliding doors providing access to the storage compartment.

More: New Toyota Yaris Cross Debuts In Indonesia, Looks Like A Mini Highlander

Videos from the show reveal a massive Tesla-like infotainment touchscreen on the dashboard and a smaller digital instrument cluster. Other interior traits include the black, white, and yellow upholstery, the touch-sensitive gearbox selector embedded on the central armrest, and the front passenger’s seat that folds flat creating a useful tray with cupholders.

The Daihatsu Grand Max was introduced in 2007 but remains on sale in Japan and Indonesia following a mild facelift. The LCV also serves as the base for the rebadged Toyota LiteAce/TownAce and Mazda Bongo twins. The production version is exclusively available with 1.2-liter and 1.5-liter petrol engines, but the electric concept suggests that a zero-emission variant is technically possible.

Daihatsu has a “muti-pathway approach” toward reaching carbon neutrality in Indonesia, similar to Toyota’s strategy. The company plans on offering affordable fuel-efficient combustion-engined vehicles alongside hybrids and BEVs while remaining committed to local production.

This year’s Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show is held in Jakarta between August 10 and August 20. Besides the fancy concept, Daihatsu showcases 12 other production vehicles including the new generation of the Ayla city car and the Atrai kei car. Below, you can see a presentation of the Daihatsu Vizion-F by local media AutonetMagz, right from the showroom floor.