HW ELECTRO, a Japanese automaker, recently revealed its latest creation—the PUZZLE, a compact electric van drawing inspiration from the beloved kei car phenomenon. While the PUZZLE marks HW ELECTRO’s inaugural foray into the US market, the brand is no stranger to innovative electric vehicles, having previously launched the ELEMO series in its domestic market.
At the heart of the PUZZLE’s design is a commitment to addressing environmental challenges and providing innovative eco-friendly solutions to the commercial vehicle market. The electric van was officially unveiled in the US last week, with commercial sales anticipated to commence in 2025, signaling a new chapter in the brand’s global expansion.
President of HW ELECTRO, Hsiao Weicheng, expressed the company’s dedication to environmental stewardship, stating, “The PUZZLE launch marks HW ELECTRO’s dedication to addressing environmental challenges and creating innovative eco-friendly solutions to the commercial vehicle market. We are excited to officially showcase PUZZLE today and we look forward to making it available in the U.S. market in 2025.”
While the PUZZLE deviates slightly from the traditional kei car format, positioning itself more as a kei van, it embraces the legacy of Japan’s compact car culture. Boasting a flat and angular design, the PUZZLE not only minimizes design and tooling costs but also maximizes the use of space within the kei car vehicle segment. The result is an exceptionally spacious and efficient cargo area, further enhanced by a foldable passenger seat that doubles as a side table.
Designed primarily for commercial applications, the PUZZLE features a range of practical elements that align with its focus on disaster resilience. The electric van is equipped with onboard AC outlets, USB ports, Wi-Fi internet connectivity, emergency tools, and roof-mounted solar panels to ensure functionality during extended power outages. Notably, the PUZZLE’s design positions features like AC outlets and a first-aid kit on the exterior, allowing them to be easily accessed by others in case of emergencies.
While specific tech specs and pricing details are yet to be disclosed, the PUZZLE’s unique design and commitment to eco-friendly functionality suggest it could carve a niche for itself in the commercial electric vehicle market. With a length just under 3.4 meters, the PUZZLE’s compact size makes it suitable for various applications, including potential van-life conversions, offering a blend of versatility and environmental consciousness.
As the anticipation builds for the PUZZLE’s arrival in the US market, consumers can look forward to experiencing the distinctive charm of Japanese electric vehicle innovation combined with the practicality demanded by commercial applications.
