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Your Guide to Owning
a Battery Electric Vehicle

INTRODUCTION

Pioneering the Past, Present, and Future

At Toyota, we believe that different mobility needs require different mobility solutions. Our Electrified Journey began over 25 years ago with the introduction of the Prius in 1997. Today, more Canadians than ever are choosing electrified vehicles including Battery Electric Vehicles, or BEVs.

CHARGING

Charging your EV, at Home and On the Go

Charging is the process of returning energy to the battery of an electric vehicle. There are a couple different ways to return energy to a battery, such as through the process of regenerative braking and plug-in charging.

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Regenerative Braking

Takes kinetic energy involved in slowing down the vehicle, and converts it into electricity to top up your battery, prolonging battery range

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Plug-in Charging

Happens when the EV is connected to an external power source to transfer energy back to the battery.

Types of Charging

Did you know: Your vehicle has a maximum charging speed, regardless of how powerful the station is. Some stations may advertise a high power output (e.g., 150 kW), but that full speed may only be achievable on specific vehicles with 400V battery systems. Your BEV will only accept the power it can handle. For more information, visit the Charging Your EV page.

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LEVEL 1: Standard

120-Volt Outlet

At Home Charging

Level 1 charging is the simplest option, and it charges slowly. On the plus side, it uses power from standard wall outlets in homes.  All Toyota BEVs from 2026 and beyond include a dual-voltage charging cable to facilitate Level 1 charging. 

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LEVEL 2: Faster

240-Volt Outlet

At Home and Public Charging

Level 2 is like Level 1, but with twice the voltage and increased amperage. This means vehicles charge much faster.  At home, this requires installing a Level 2 charger into higher voltage electrical outlets1 – like those that power large appliances like clothes dryers or ovens.  In public, Level 2 is widely available at public stations.

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LEVEL 3: Fastest

480-Volt DCFC

Public Charging

DCFC (Direct Current Fast Charging) provides even higher voltage in the form of DC power. Level 3 requires the use of specialized equipment and manufacturer-specific plugs, which are not available in residential homes. Charging time will vary widely depending on weather conditions and other factors2.

Charging at Home

Installing a dedicated Level 2 charger at your residence can make a lot of sense, especially for electric vehicle owners. These chargers use a 240-volt outlet, the same amount of power used by home appliances like a stove, or HVAC equipment. There are a number of factors to consider before installing a Level 2 charger, including the best location, the type of connector, the length of cord, permanent or portable installation, and amperage. We recommend speaking to a certified installer about requirements, including the right plug head, and installation costs.

Charging in Public

Toyota’s incorporation of the North American Charging System (NACS) port on certain vehicles offers convenient charging access to over 5000 public charging stations across Canada. And finding public charger is easy! Simply use the Toyota App and in-car navigation to help you find the nearest charger. And should you ever run out of charge, Toyota Roadside Assistance can tow you to the nearest charging station so you can get back on the road.

SERVICE & MAINTENANCE

Experience the Ease of BEV Maintenance

Servicing and maintaining your BEV is no more difficult than with a typical gas-powered vehicle. In fact, the maintenance schedules of both Toyotas’ gas and electric vehicles are the same - every 6 months of 8,000 km.

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Roadside Assistance for Peace of Mind

In the event that you ever run out of charge, Roadside Assistance3 can provide towing to your home, or the nearest public EV charging station to help get you back on the road. With your new car warranty, Roadside Assistance is included for three years for unlimited kilometers. It can even be extended once expired.

Or call - 1-888-TOYOTA-8

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How to Extend the Life of Your EV Battery

Avoid charging from 0% to 100% regularly and to keep the battery in a moderate charge range (10%-80%) for optimal longevity. After three 10-80% charge sessions, DC Fast Charging over the next 24 hour period may take longer and be less effective.

Enabling software updates for your vehicle will ensure that it operates safely and efficiently. Over-The-Air Software Updates allow your vehicle to update its software wirelessly, with quality, capability and convenience updates that are made available for select vehicle systems, such as the multimedia system.  

DRIVING & TIPS

Enhancing the Driving Experience with your EV

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EV Driving Tips to Maximize Range

  • Engage Cruise Control

    Cruise control helps maintain a steady speed, which uses less energy than constant speed changes.

  • Use Regenerative Braking

    Take advantage of your EV’s ability to slow down and recover energy when you ease off the accelerator.

  • Manage Climate Control

    Heating and cooling can draw significant energy. Use energy-saving settings, when possible.

  • Keep Tires Properly Inflated

    Well-maintained tire pressure reduces rolling resistance and helps maximize range.

  • Ease Into Acceleration

    Smooth starts are better for your battery and your tires.

  • Know the Cost of Towing

    Pulling a trailer can significantly reduce your range.

  • Charge with a Buffer

    Try to reach public chargers with about 20% battery remaining.

  • Drive at Moderate Speeds

    Higher speeds drain your battery faster.

  • Watch the Wind

    Roof racks and rooftop cargo boxes can increase drag. Consider rear-mounted options to help your EV stay aerodynamic.

  • Travel Light

    Extra weight uses extra energy, so pack only what you need.

  • Engage Cruise Control

    Cruise control helps maintain a steady speed, which uses less energy than constant speed changes.

  • Use Regenerative Braking

    Take advantage of your EV’s ability to slow down and recover energy when you ease off the accelerator.

  • Manage Climate Control

    Heating and cooling can draw significant energy. Use energy-saving settings, when possible.

  • Keep Tires Properly Inflated

    Well-maintained tire pressure reduces rolling resistance and helps maximize range.


Pre-conditioning – Vital to Cold Weather Driving

Pre-conditioning warms the battery to its optimal temperature—especially important in cold weather—you can boost charging speed (especially at DC fast chargers) and help preserve long-term battery health.

Types of Pre-Conditioning

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Cabin Pre-conditioning

Pre-conditioning can heat or cool your cabin ahead of time, for a more comfortable drive. Most EVs let you do this remotely through a mobile app–perfect for frosty mornings or hot summer days.

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Battery Pre-conditioning4

By pre-conditioning the battery, an optimal temperature for charging can be ensured, allowing for higher charging power. This function can be activated manually or automatically by using the vehicle’s built-in navigation to find a fast-charging station.

Towing with an Electric Vehicle

  • Towing Capability

    Certain Toyota battery electric vehicles have the capability to tow. Battery electric vehicles deliver more torque than gas vehicles, which will aid in acceleration (especially when towing a heavy weight.)

  • Plan Your Charging Stops

    Your range may be drastically impacted when towing with a battery electric vehicle. If you are towing with your battery electric vehicle, make sure you have a charging plan in advance to ensure you arrive to your location smoothly.

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Learn More about Battery Electric Vehicles

Want to know even more about Battery Electric Vehicles?

Learn More about Battery Electric Vehicles

Want to know even more about Battery Electric Vehicles?