THE UK's first self-charging full hybrid electric van has been developed by Toyota and it will be built in Britain at the company's factory near Derby.

The Corolla Commercial extends the Toyota Professional range of light commercial vehicles with a powertrain option that offers a solution for those who want transport with lower CO2emissions and the flexibility to cover long distances and high mileages with comfort and competitive running costs.

It will be priced from £26,495 or £22,134 excluding VAT.

The 1.8-litre hybrid system allows the van to run on electric power in EV mode; it will also automatically switch to EV running when battery charge and driving conditions permit, maximising fuel and emissions efficiency.

Corolla Commercial has been developed by Toyota Manufacturing UK at its Burnaston plant, home to European production of the Corolla hatchback and the Touring Sports estate version.

The model is an adaptation of the Touring Sports wagon, with the rear seats removed and replaced with a lined and easily accessible load area that is some 1,558mm long, 952mm wide and 682mm high.

The design of the multilink rear suspension means the load area is not compromised by intruding components.

Performance and load-carrying capacity specifications are yet to be homologated, but Toyota estimates combined cycle fuel economy of 55.3 - 62.7mpg with 102 - 115g/km COemissions.

Towing capacity, again a provisional figure subject to homologation, will be a braked limit of 750kg.

The Corolla Commercial will be available in a single version with a specification that reflects its passenger car roots.

Standard features include a full metal bulkhead, eight-inch multimedia display, smartphone integration with Apple Car Play and Android Auto, reversing camera, automatic headlights, heated and power adjustable door mirrors, dual-zone air conditioning and heated, height-adjustable seats with power lumbar adjustment for the driver. The van is also equipped with Toyota Safety Sense active safety and driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist.

Deliveries of the new model are expected to start in June.