Category → Tokyo Motor Show 2009
Honda CR-Z Concept 2009 Makes World Debut at the Tokyo Motor Show
Stylish hybrid coupe will arrive in North America in 2010 as 2-seat model
10/20/2009 – TOKYO -
Honda today debuted the much-anticipated CR-Z Concept 2009, the second concept version of the stylish, sporty hybrid coupe, at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show. While the vehicle displayed at the show is a global concept with a rear seat, the production version that will be introduced to North America in the second half of 2010 will be packaged as a sporty, 2-seat hybrid that provides a personal driving experience for North American customers.
“The Honda CR-Z will expand our lineup of hybrid vehicles and reinforce the fun-to-drive values associated with the Honda brand,” said Erik Berkman, vice president of Automobile Corporate Planning and Logistics for American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “Beyond great styling and features, CR-Z will bring new levels of engagement and fun to customers interested a small car or a hybrid vehicle.”
CR-Z will join the Insight and Civic Hybrid in the Honda hybrid lineup, each offering distinct benefits. Civic Hybrid, launched in 2003, was Honda’s first mainstream model to feature hybrid power. The 2010 Insight, introduced in March 2009, ushered in a new era of affordability for a hybrid family sedan. The CR-Z will break new ground as a sporty, hybrid coupe with unique value.
The production version of the Honda CR-Z will make its world debut at the January 2010 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
Popularity: 1% [?]
Lexus Debuts LFA
Only 500 to Be Sold
Tokyo, October 21, 2009 — Lexus announces today the official launch of the LFA, a two-seat supercar scheduled to go into production at the end of 2010 as the pinnacle of the Lexus “F” premium sports car series. Pre-sales start today.
Ultra-responsive and extremely stable even when taken to the edge, the LFA creates a sense of reassurance that opens up a new world of driving emotion, exhilarating the senses to move the driver in more ways than one.
The LFA combines high output, superb chassis design and meticulous aerodynamics to achieve instantaneous total-vehicle response characterized by high-rev, seamless acceleration echoed by a self-defining resonance from its 4.8-liter V10.
Only 500 units of the LFA are to be produced and sold worldwide.
A prototype of the LFA is now on display at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show, which is open to the general public from October 24 to November 4 at Makuhari Messe in Makuhari, Chiba Prefecture.
| LFA Main Specifications* (European-market version) |
| Length/width/height | 4,505/1,895/1,220 mm | |
| Wheelbase | 2,605 mm | |
| Track (front/rear) | 1,580/1,570 mm | |
| Vehicle weight | 1,480 kg | |
| Seating | 2 | |
| Engine | Model/displacement | 1LR-GUE/4,805 cc |
| Type | V10 gasoline engine DOHC | |
| Maximum output | 412kW (560PS)/8,700rpm | |
| Maximum torque | 480N-m (48.9kgf-m)/6,800rpm | |
| Transmission | Six-speed ASG (Automated Sequential Gearbox) | |
| Powertrain | Front engine, rear-wheel drive | |
| Suspension (front/rear) | Double wishbone/Multilink | |
| Brakes (front/rear) | CCM (Carbon Ceramic Material) discs/CCM discs | |
| Tires | Front | 265/35ZR20 (95Y) |
| Rear | 305/30ZR20 (99Y) | |
| Maximum speed | 325km/h | |
| Acceleration 0-100km/h | 3.7 sec. | |
| *According to Lexus measurements and targets | ||
| Sales outline (tentative) |
| Number of units | 500 |
| Manufacturer’s suggested retail price | Approx. 375,000 U.S. dollars (approx. 37.5 million yen in Japan) |
| Start of pre-sales | October 21, 2009 |
| Customer selection | Spring 2010 |
| Production/sales period | December 2010 to December 2012 |
| Additional models | Model with special color selection and model tuned to be more circuit-suited (production of both to begin at start of 2012) |
Vehicle Outline
1. Packaging brings out the most in fundamental performance
Strong and light
The newly developed 4.8-liter V10 engine boasts exceptional power, while lightweight materials (aluminum alloy, magnesium alloy and titanium alloy) and a very compact size (smaller than a conventional V8) allows for optimal weight distribution and an exceptional power-to-weight ratio.
Carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) cabin enhances high body-rigidity and reduces weight. This unique cabin is 100kg lighter than a comparable aluminum cabin. Detailed analysis and precise matching of CFRP materials allows for high rigidity and low weight. LFA CFRP production technology, including unique CFRP-to-metal joining, was completely developed by Lexus.
Balanced
Relatively higher weight components such as the engine and transmission are placed within the wheelbase. A low center of gravity is made possible by the use of dry sump lubrication1, along with placing peripheral components (oil pump, water pump) behind the engine. Furthermore, optimal placement of the transmission and the fuel tank in front of the rear axle adds to this application of centralized mass. This minimizes weight shift during cornering and contributes to outstanding performance and stability. Lighter weight components, like the radiator and electric fans, are placed behind the rear axle.
Combined with a front-engine and rear-wheel-drive configuration, the short, wide and low body allows the LFA to achieve its target front-to-rear weight distribution of 48:52.
Driver-centered
The driver’s seat is positioned near the LFA’s center of gravity. The centralized seating concept (with the seat between the front and rear axles and closer to the left–right center) is made possible by the use of a rear transaxle and vertically stacked torque tube and exhaust pipes reducing the width of the center tunnel. The driver placement is aimed to provide maximum car-to-driver feedback, especially under sport or high G-force driving conditions.
2. Emotive performance embodies an extraordinary driving experience
High–rev engine
Titanium valves, ultra–light weight rocker arms with a diamond–like coating and a fully integrated lower crankcase that reduces pumping losses at high RPMs combine to provide the driver with overwhelming acceleration right up to the 9,000rpm redline. The LFA’s purpose-built V10 delivers 90% of its peak torque between 3,700rpm and 9,000rpm.
Precise Response
Independent, electronically controlled throttle bodies ensure precise air-feed to each of the 10 cylinders, enabling immediate engine response from the accelerator pedal. The engine response time is approximately half the normal response time of a single-throttle valve.
The six-speed ASG transmission features heavy-duty synchronizer rings and a newly developed gearshift actuator, providing the driver with a very direct shift feel. Four selectable driving modes and a seven-stage shift-speed selector that results in upshift speeds down to 0.2 seconds provide a higher level of driver control.
Track-sized high-performance (Carbon Ceramic) CCM brake discs and Electronically Controlled Braking system generate ultra-powerful yet stable braking.
Responsive handling and engaging dynamics
The very light and rigid CFRP cabin, combined with a front double-wishbone suspension and a rear multilink suspension, result in a very stable, controlled ride. Detailed aerodynamic engineering results in elements such as a flat underbody, a diffuser and a speed-controlled rear wing, which allows precise vehicle response at all vehicle speeds, thus creating unity between driver and machine.
Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management integrates numerous vehicle dynamic functions that provide a high level of vehicle stability and preventative safety without interfering with the driver’s intentions, especially when sport driving.
Exciting engine sound and L-finesse2 design
Equal-length exhaust manifolds combined with an equal-length dual exhaust system routed through a multistage titanium main muffler fine tunes the exhaust note.
An acoustically tuned surge tank linked to 10 individual throttle bodies creates a powerful induction sound. The coordination of intake and exhaust sounds overlap at various RPMs to create a unique, exciting and inspired soundtrack.
The exterior design includes carefully tuned aerodynamics and airflow management. The use of CFRP, in addition to strength and weight advantages, frees up the design of the exterior panels allowing a fresh supercar L-finesse design. The interior design combines state-of-the-art instrument-panel design and technology, along with a variety of custom-tailored interior trim packages to suit the most discerning driver.
1System that eliminates need for oil pan, resulting in engine with low center of gravity, high tolerance of lateral G forces and reduced friction; often used in such vehicles as racecars
2Combination of the “leading-edge” and “finesse” design concepts
Popularity: 1% [?]
The Lotus force has a dark side: Revealed – the exclusive ‘Exige Scura’
Lotus Cars unveils its latest special edition – the Exige Scura, so called due to its dramatic matt black and carbon fibre theme, at the Tokyo International Motorshow on 21st of October 2009.
Translated as ‘dark’ from Italian, the name ‘Scura’ reflects the stealth character of this already fierce looking Lotus and its stunning soft-feel matt black paint finish. Limited to just 35 cars globally, this Exige evokes a desire to ‘indulge your dark side’. This is a serious looking car and enhancements to performance and a reduction in weight from the production level Exige S means that the Exige Scura demands to be driven by a serious driver.
Contrasting high gloss ‘Phantom Black’ triple stripes run the length of the car and a carbon fibre front splitter, oil cooler inlet vanes, side airscoops and rear spoiler enhance the stunning distinction between the different textures and exaggerate the tactile quality of the velvety touch to the matt black paint finish.
Luke Bennett, Director of Lotus Cars said, “The Exige Scura is a stunning vehicle which offers an adrenaline fuelled experience and is a real head-turner! Our Exige customers choose Lotus because we deliver thrilling performance and dynamic design and this special edition fits the bill on both counts.”
Continuing the dark ‘Scura’ appearance into the interior, carbon fibre is used extensively to compliment the exterior theme and reduce weight. The seats and centre console are crafted from carbon fibre and the handbrake and gear knob have a special anodized treatment which leaves the metal with an anthracite colour finish. All carbon fibre components have been beautifully finished in high-gloss clear lacquer allowing the weave to remain exposed which gives the cabin a raw and racy ambiance.
Whilst there is no doubt that this is a visually stunning car, the Exige Scura is not just about its looks – it begs to be taken on track, and its racing character encompasses poise, power and technology to make it a serious contender. Equipped with the most powerful engine in the Exige range and generating 260PS, the Exige Scura achieves a top speed of around 245 km/h and reaches 0-100 kmh in just 4.1 seconds.
Other equipment fitted as standard to boost the Exige Scura’s track credentials include:
* Launch control to ensure optimum performance from a standing start
* Variable slip traction control, enabling the driver to tune the car to track surface conditions and their own driving style
* Ohlins 2-way adjustable dampers for personalised ride and handling characteristics
Roger Becker, Vehicle Engineering Director, highlighted the performance of the Exige Scura, “There are very few cars in the world that turn in the performance of the Exige Scura without the penalty of very high fuel consumption and emissions. As with all Lotus sportscars we offer the best of both worlds – a zero to 100 km/h time of just over 4 seconds and a CO2 figure of 199 g/km; all this is down to light weight and a strict adherence to Lotus’ core brand values.”
Considering the performance on offer, the Exige Scura boasts impressive all round fuel economy with an Official European Combined Cycle figure of 8.5 litres/100 km and 6.5 litres/100 km on the Official European Extra Urban Cycle and emissions of 199 g/km of CO2.
Orders for the ‘Lotus Exige Scura’ will be accepted from 21 October 2009 in Europe, South Korea, Australia, South Africa, Thailand, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, New Zealand, Indonesia and Malaysia. This special edition will be available on the same basis in Japan known as the ‘Lotus Exige Stealth’.
Popularity: 1% [?]
SUBARU HYBRID TOURER CONCEPT
FHI will present the “SUBARU HYBRID TOURER CONCEPT”, a new proposal for the future of grand touring car that integrates environmental friendliness, driving performance, and safety at a high level. In addition, FHI will unveil the “Plug-in STELLA feat. BEAMS”. Designed in collaboration with the renowned specialty store BEAMS, the fully electric car is based on the Plug-in STELLA launched this summer in Japan. The company will also showcase a special version of Impreza WRX STI exclusively tuned for further enhancement of its sporty performance, as well as other production models such as the new Legacy. Besides showcasing these models, FHI will exhibit Subaru’s latest safety technologies, such as the “EyeSight”, an advanced driving assist system with pre-collision control using stereo camera technology.
A press conference by President Ikuo Mori is scheduled on Wednesday, October 21, at 12:10, at the Subaru booth (Center Hall).
SUBARU HYBRID TOURER CONCEPTSUBARU HYBRID TOURER CONCEPT 01SUBARU HYBRID TOURER CONCEPT 02SUBARU HYBRID TOURER CONCEPT 03
SUBARU HYBRID TOURER CONCEPT
Major exhibits
???? SUBARU HYBRID TOURER CONCEPT (Concept car)
1. Concept
Subaru has condensed its DNA, developed over many years around the Subaru’s core technology of “Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)” and “Horizontally-Opposed Boxer Engine”, into the integration of a luxurious and high-quality cabin atmosphere and an eye-catching sculpted body. The concept car features Subaru’s latest evolutions in handling agility, riding comfort and superior safety performance. It proposes Subaru’s vision of a future grand touring car that excels in environmental friendliness thanks to Subaru’s unique hybrid system.
2. Design and packaging
(1) Exterior
Subaru imagined wings with a feeling of freedom and confidence for driving far and wide in any environment. A luxurious and comfortable cabin, and advanced driving performance are contained within a sculpted aerodynamic form. The design features a combination of bright, open glass areas with a solid, reliable body.
(2) Interior
The original point of the ideal grand touring car is its interior design, featuring four independent and comfortably positioned seats. Passengers are enclosed within an atmosphere that provides a surpassing feeling of openness and stress-free reassurance, through the further pursuit of a human-centered philosophy, the essence of Subaru car design, and the incorporation of functions that are friendly to passengers.
????????The top of the dashboard is movable up and down to provide an optimal driving environment for the driver according to driving conditions.
????????A flat floor in the rear seat was achieved even with the implementation of AWD, for improved use and movement inside the cabin.
????????Specialized shielding is incorporated in the windshield to reduce eyestrain on the driver.
????????New leather covering developed with superior breathability and a ventilation function is used in the seats for improved comfort and texture.
3. Mechanisms
In addition to refinements to Subaru’s core technology such as Symmetrical AWD and Horizontally-Opposed Boxer Engine, further enhancements were made for improved environmental friendliness, driving performance and high safety performance by offering a next-generation power unit system and advanced safety technologies.
(1) Next-generation power unit system
2.0-liter Horizontally-Opposed direct fuel-injection turbo gasoline engine
????????The Horizontally-Opposed turbo gasoline engine, with a reputation for powerful acceleration, is
combined with a direct fuel-injection system for improvements in fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, and improved torque and response in practical range. This evolution in Subaru turbo technology excels in both environmental friendliness and engine performance.
Lineartronic (CVT)
????????Lineartronic, Subaru’s new generation automatic transmission, achieves further improvements in both fuel efficiency and driving performance by reinforcing parts for use with the high-power output of a turbo engine.
Hybrid system
????????To further enhance the appeal of the Symmetrical AWD system, this unique hybrid two-motor system features a power/drive motor in the front and a drive motor in the rear.
????????At start-up and extremely low speeds when fuel efficiency is low, such as when driving the car into a garage, the rear motor is used primarily to allow driving without utilizing the power of the engine.
????????During normal driving, the front engine is primarily used. The direct fuel-injection turbo gasoline mated with the Symmetrical AWD offers a whole new, Subaru driving experience.
????????During acceleration, the rear motor assists the driving power of the engine to achieve advanced driving performance.
????????Further, when accelerating uphill, the front motor, which is normally used as a power generator, assists to drive the front axle for improved performance.
????????The implementation of a non-idling function that stops the engine when the car comes to a halt reduces unnecessary fuel consumption.
Popularity: 1% [?]
Highlights of the Nissan Exhibit at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show
YOKOHAMA (October 8, 2009) – Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., will present various show cars at the upcoming 2009 Tokyo Motor Show, including “Leaf,” an electric vehicle (EV) which is slated for global launch and volume production in late 2010, “Land Glider,” an EV concept car, and “Qazana,” which is an entirely new type of compact sport crossover, which made its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2009. Nissan will also showcase the new “Fuga,” Nissan’s top-of-the-line sedan and the new mini MPV “Roox,” both to be launched later this year.
Nissan’s ultimate goal in the environmental field is zero emission. With aim to be a leader in this field, the Nissan exhibits will focus on concept cars including “Leaf” and on the development of related technologies and battery-charging infrastructure, in an effort to communicate the company’s commitment to consumers.
Nissan is also continuing to work on the internal combustion engine (ICE) technology, for the development of environment-friendly technology to improve fuel economy and reduce gas emission. In addition to EV, the Nissan exhibit will feature a wide range of models and technologies such as hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), clean diesel technology and next-generation X-TRONIC CVT.
Overview of major concept cars and technologies to be exhibited are as follows.
Leaf
The world’s first EV designed for large-scale volume production
* High-performance, zero-emission power train and platform take the “joy of driving” to another dimension.
* A design that evokes a clean and intelligent image and a body that achieves optimal aerodynamics and wind noise characteristics are packaged into this innovative and original five-passenger, five-door hatchback.
* Has a range of more than 160km (100 miles) on one full charge, which is sufficient for most daily needs.
* Features an advanced IT system that is specially designed for zero-emission mobility. Navigation screen supports the driver by displaying range autonomy areas and battery-charging spots with a touch of a button.
Land Glider
A new proposal for urban mobility that can be enabled by zero-emission car
* The Land Glider has a potential to become a new means of transportation in urban areas; its linear acceleration and the narrow body, which only an ultra-compact, ultra-lightweight EV can achieve, will help reduce traffic congestion and promote effective use of parking space.
* Shift of the center of gravity by leaning provides a new, exciting sense of driving and a powerful, crisp ride.
New Fuga
Nissan’s top-of-the-line sedan to be launched this autumn, which combines supreme design, interior and performance
* A vibrant exterior design, which attracts attention with the strength and dynamic form that only a front-engine/rear-drive (FR) car can deliver.
* Crisp driving, smooth ride, powerful acceleration, quiet and environment-friendly and comfortable driving with a sense of assurance provided by numerous “world’s first” technologies.
* A comfortable interior space, created by interior design focused on physical space as well as visual spaciousness and by the adoption of numerous carefully-selected materials and amenities.
* A new, hybrid?version which pursues both the “fun of maneuvering at will” and fuel economy of a compact car, will also be exhibited for reference only.
Qazana
A whole new five-door compact sport crossover with innovative design
* Exterior and interior design inspired by images of beach buggies and motorcycles.
* Distinctive exterior features a large wheel arch that emphasizes power and stability, high belt lines and a sporty upper body.
* The interior features a center console that looks just like a fuel tank and seat of a motorcycle and a design that exposes the body framework.
* Combines sporty driving and environmental performance.
ROOX
A super-spacious mini-sized vehicle that features a large interior space and dynamic design
* A comfortable interior space (interior height: 1365mm, interior length: 2085mm), one the largest for mini-sized vehicles, allows flexible seat arrangement.
* The sporty and sophisticated “Highway Star” design exudes a strong presence that changes the image of mini-sized vehicles.
* To maximize the ease of getting in and out, a slide door (opening width: 580mm, opening height: 1230mm), which can be remotely controlled, and a rear step with low ground height are featured on both sides of the car.
NV200 VANETTE UNIVERSAL DESIGN TAXI
* A next generation Universal Design Taxi that pursues comfortable mobility for all customers.
* Exterior design is readily identifiable as a taxi and also stylish.
* Will be officially introduced as the Universal Design Taxi by the end of 2010.
Next-generation continuously variable transmission (CVT)
The next-generation XTRONIC CVT is compact, lightweight and low-friction, and features an original structure
* Has achieved a world-best change gear ratio range of 7.3, which is more than 20% better compared to conventional CVT of the same class.
* Nissan’s original, breakthrough design, which combines subtransmission, has succeeded in reducing total transmission length by 10% and weight by 13%.
* Unit efficiency has been improved by reducing friction by 30% through reduction of oil agitation resistance and others.
Popularity: 1% [?]
Lexus to Display Two-seat Supercar and LF-Ch at Tokyo Show
Tokyo, October 7, 2009 — Lexus announces a revolutionary supercar and a compact-premium hybrid vehicle that will highlight its display at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show from October 24 to November 4 at Makuhari Messe in Makuhari, Chiba Prefecture.
Two-seat supercar (world premier)
This concept vehicle epitomizes the purest form of driving exhilaration and performance. (Details to be announced at the Lexus press briefing on October 21.)
LF-Ch (Japan premier)
This stylish premium concept vehicle combines superb dynamic performance with very low emissions.
* Compact, 5-door package
* Equipped with Lexus Hybrid Drive for superior environmental and driving performance
* Dimensions: Length: 4,300 mm, Width: 1,790 mm, Height: 1,400 mm
* Wheelbase: 2,600 mm
* Tyre size: Front: 225/35R20, Rear: 225/35R20
Lexus defines itself as the 21st century benchmark for progressive automotive luxury and is pleased to be introducing exciting products that engage the senses yet are in balance with our planet’s needs for sustainability.
Popularity: 1% [?]
A Small FR Sports Concept Vehicle that Combines Environmental Performance and the Joy of Driving
TMC seeks to develop the ultimate earth-conscious environmentally-considerate vehicle with a focus on hybrid technologies without losing sight of the appeal of cars themselves or the joy of driving.
Over the past several years, the need has been rising for motor vehicles that take into consideration global warming and other environmental issues, while there has also been concern that there have been too few new sports cars that make the heart beat faster and that the time is right for a new generation of sports cars. In response to these needs, TMC has developed the FT-86 Concept, a sports car equipped with a 2,000cc, horizontally opposed, four-cylinder, naturally-aspirated gasoline engine that evokes the joy of driving a car and the pleasure of vehicle ownership.
As the name “Future Toyota 86 Concept” implies, the FT-86 Concept, which will be exhibited at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show, is a new 86 Toyota with a flash red finish. It is a compact, rear-wheel drive sports concept car that embodies speed and the excitement of driving that give cars their appeal as well as environmental performance.
A Toyota Sports Car for a New Era when the Driver Plays the Main Role
The FT-86 Concept is 4,160mm long, 1,760mm wide, and 1,260mm high with a wheelbase of 2,570mm, giving it a compact feeling that is easy for the driver to handle while able to accommodate four occupants. In addition to being light and having a low center of gravity, the FT-86 Concept boasts the handling of a racing car as well as a 6-speed manual transmission and ADVICS brakes.
The stylish concept captures the heart with the “functional utility” of its highly-refined body. It is the creation of Toyota Europe Design Development known as ED2, which has established body lines that take into consideration a low center of gravity and aerodynamics. The interior is distinctive, featuring an instrument panel with a gray and white base, gauges with red neon lights and digital displays, and a navigation system. In addition, a zipper that evokes an image of interior lapping with minimal covering of a highly-refined body presents a striking display.
It is necessary to create a vehicle in which the driver plays the main role in order to have as many people as possible experience the joy of driving.
The FT-86 Concept is neither an electric vehicle nor a hybrid vehicle, but is a sports model with a gasoline engine developed to convey the essential appeal of automobiles in a new era. It is a must-see concept car that expresses TMC’s desire to once again create a Toyota sports car.
Popularity: 1% [?]
PRIUS PLUG-IN HYBRID Concept
The First Toyota Vehicle with a Lithium-Ion Battery
Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) has positioned a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHV) as the ideal environmentally-considerate vehicle best suited for widespread use given its responses to the diversification of energy sources at present.
The PRIUS PLUG-IN HYBRID Concept is the first Toyota vehicle brand that uses a lithium-ion battery as the drive battery. It is a PHV concept model that can be charged from an external power source such as household electricity.
Since PRIUS PLUG-IN HYBRID Concept has a lithium-ion drive battery, charging to many times higher than a nickel-metal hydride battery is possible. As a result, the cruising range in electric vehicle mode is longer than that of a Prius with a nickel-metal hydride battery. The fuel efficiency of the third-generation Prius is 38km/l, and that of the PRIUS PLUG-IN HYBRID Concept is at least 55km/l (target). Charged from an external power source such as a household electrical outlet, it extends the cruising range in electric vehicle mode, maximizing the benefits as an environmentally-considerate vehicle. As the cruising distance as an electric vehicle increases, environmental benefits that surpass those even of the regular Prius can be expected including lower CO2 emissions and air pollution and reduced consumption of fossil fuels.
Approximate charging times using ordinary household electricity are 180 minutes at 100V and 100 minutes at 200V. TMC set a minimum electric vehicle (EV) cruising range target of at least 20km on a full charge. Enabling the vehicle to be recharged externally allows it to operate as an EV for short trips and as a hybrid vehicle (HV) for longer ones. In other words, the PRIUS PLUG-IN HYBRID Concept is the ideal combination of an EV and a HV.
TMC plans to participate in the EV & PHV Towns program sponsored by the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry to encourage the widespread use of EVs and PHVs, and the PRIUS PLUG-IN HYBRID Concept brings TMC one step closer to the ultimate environmentally-considerate vehicle.
Popularity: 1% [?]
Toyota FT-EVII
FT-EV II Electric Vehicle that Envisions the Future Mobility Society
The FT-EV II, which stands for “Future Toyota Electric Vehicle II”, is a concept car that was created from the core technology of the Toyota Hybrid System in the pursuit of the ultimate environmentally-considerate vehicle. Its lithium-ion battery provides a cruising range in excess of 90km on a full charge, which is more than enough for everyday use, and a maximum speed in excess of 100km/h. Since it is an electric vehicle, naturally it is an environmentally-considerate vehicle that produces absolutely no CO2 emissions while driving.
A distinctive, compact body with bright exterior colors has been designed in accordance with Vibrant Clarity, Toyota-brand design philosophy. The compact exterior and retro-futuristic interior feature designs that evoke images of the future.
The vehicle has no steering wheel or foot pedals-symbols of vehicle performance. In addition, it has not been designed simply as a means of transport, but instead based on the premise of collaboration with communications functions, a concept that differs from earlier vehicles. The console incorporates communications functions to achieve a more seamless link with information, expressing the new vehicle concept of the electric vehicle as an information device.
Enhanced communications functions enable the linking of individual drivers’ information on a network, allowing the vehicle to connect with services that go beyond car navigation, such as recommending information tailored to the individual’s preferences and downloading music and movie content. Furthermore, the vehicle can connect to home networks to play a role in storing energy and saving large volumes of data, making the vehicle a new information device in the networked society of the future.
The FT-EV II is not simply an electric vehicle designed for a post-fossil fuel era, but is a sustainable concept car that focuses on the relationship between cars, people and society of the future.
The FT-EV II is primarily designed for short-distance travel and is positioned as a commuter vehicle for urban use, but as it integrates communications, it will become a device that can provide completely new links between vehicles and people.
Popularity: 1% [?]