A COMMERCIAL version of the Toyota Corolla has been given its world premiere as the Japanese brand strengthens its offering in the LCV market.

Unveiled at the Commercial Vehicle Show at Birmingham's NEC, the Corolla Commercial is based on the estate version of the British-built model and will become the first full hybrid van in its class.

Built at Toyota's Burnaston plant near Derby - the home of European Corolla production - it uses the same self-charging technology as the Corolla hatchback and the Touring Sports passenger models.

It gives business customers the advantage of high fuel efficiency and low emissions, together with the ability to drive on pure electric power in EV mode.

Its introduction further strengthens the Toyota Professional range of light commercial vehicles which already includes the Proace, the Proace City, Land Cruiser Commercial and the Toyota Hilux.

The range also comprises the Proace Electric medium van and later in 2021 is expanding further with the launch of Proace City Electric.

Mark Roden, Toyota (GB) Operations director, said: "With its full hybrid powertrain, Corolla Commercial will give customers an exceptionally versatile vehicle that can be driven with zero emissions and fuel consumption during short urban runs while also giving the freedom to make longer journeys without the need for battery recharging. Toyota's hybrid technology has well-proven reliability and delivers day-to-day savings on running costs with its fuel efficiency.

"It's a unique addition to the Toyota Professional range and the wider LCV market and we're confident will attract strong interest."

The Corolla Commercial is scheduled to go on sale in summer 2022, with the UK being its first market.

Initially a single version will be offered, with specifications to be announced later this year.

Indicative pricing is £22,134 excluding VAT and the model is based on the Corolla Touring Sports 1.8 Hybrid with the rear seats removed and replaced with an easily accessible load area.

Performance and load-carrying capacity specifications are yet to be homologated, but Toyota estimates a combined cycle fuel economy between 55.3 - 62.7mpg with 102 - 115g/km COemissions. Towing capacity, again a provisional figure subject to homologation, will be 750kg braked.