Is Toyota's newest concept with or without you?

A new concept car from Toyota, dubbed the Urban Utility, or U2, has broken cover ahead of its debut at the 2014 World Maker Faire in New York City in late September.

The compact van was designed in the USA and is pitched at "invention-focussed" entrepreneurs, or Makers, and a growing number of small business people looking for a vehicle to fit their needs. These needs, according to Toyota's market research, include a customisable interior, removable seats and a high level of functionality to suit a wide range of requirements.

Incorporating a futuristic exterior design, the Toyota U2 concept features a fold-down tailgate that doubles as a ramp, and has other practical features like an interior rail system and a roll-back roof panels.

"Toyota saw an opportunity for a new approach to an urban vehicle based on increasing re-urbanization of our cities and urban drivers' desire for flexibility, fun and maneuverability," said Kevin Hunter, president of Calty, Toyota's North American design studio.

"Calty keeps a number of projects concealed while exploring ideas and products. Revealing a project like the U2 gives people a window into the constant innovation that happens inside Toyota and our Calty studios and one possible future for urban mobility."

Toyota claims the new concept van is easy to load and unload, is highly manoeuvrable and fuel efficient, but has not released vehicle measurements or engine specifications.

The company says the U2 concept will allow the world's biggest car-maker to absorb crucial feedback from a "key audience" at the Maker Faire, the centre for high-tech DIY culture.