Toyota to show off iQ EV prototype, put it into production next year

Toyota has been showing off an electric vehicle concept based on its iQ
ultra-compact for a couple of years now, but it looks like it's finally
worked up enough confidence to actually put it into production. The
first step down that road will occur at the Geneva Motor Show next
month, where Toyota will show off a "near-production" prototype of its
iQ EV (not necessarily the actual name), which is apparently much like
its FT-EV concept,
but with an improved lithium-ion battery pack that promises a range of
105 kilometers (or 65 miles) on a single charge. Assuming all goes as
planned, the car will then be put into production following some
additional testing later this year, and Toyota will reportedly begin
leasing it to consumers at some point in 2012 -- Europe seems to be
first in line for the car, but it will apparently be headed to North
America as well.