Toyota reveals rugged urban SUV concept

• Toyota has produced a new compact SUV concept vehicle in reaction to the growing popularity of do-it-yourself in American cities.
• The Urban Utility vehicle – or U2 for short – is made from robust materials and, says Toyota, combines "the functionality of a traditional pick-up and the spaciousness of a cargo van".

• The vehicle has been created by Toyota's Calty design studio in California. The concept has an open architecture and is made from robust materials. 

• Among the practical features are a roll-back roof and a rear hatch that can be folded down to create a ramp. Inside, a rail system makes it easy for owners to customise the interior.

• The chunky U2 has a durable underbody and bodywork and comes with customisable side panels. Exterior highlights include retracting roof panels, rear glass that can be opened and slides away, a drop-down hatch that forms a load ramp and replaceable protective ridges on the rear hatch.
• A retractable utility bar can do anything from hold a desk to provide hooks for shopping bags. The side windows flip up, so it’s easy to reach into the vehicle from the roadside.

• Other highlights include a front passenger seat that can be folded or removed completely and rear seats that fold up for extra load space.
• Kevin Hunter, Calty President, said U2 was a "possible future vision for urban mobility" and added: "Toyota saw an opportunity for a new approach to an urban vehicle, based on the increasing re-urbanisation of our cities, and on urban drivers’ desire for flexibility, fun and manoeuvrability."
• The Toyota U2 will make its public debut at the World Maker Faire event in New York on 20 September.