The Tokyo Auto Show of 2023 witnessed the debut of Toyota’s continued commitment to the development of an electric sports car, reaffirming the automaker’s earnestness in this electrifying endeavor. Known as the FT-Se, this latest concept represents an evolution of the previous MR2-inspired electric concept unveiled in 2021, now featuring a fully realized interior.
In its design, the FT-Se retains the mid-engine configuration seen in the earlier concept but introduces a fresh front-end design, indicating Toyota’s dedication to refining the vehicle’s aesthetic appeal. A notable addition is the affiliation with Gazoo Racing, Toyota’s esteemed motorsport division, implying their substantial involvement in the concept’s development.
The unveiling video highlights several key features of the FT-Se. Active aerodynamics, a distinctive yoke-style steering wheel (hinting at steer-by-wire technology), and a trio of screens are among the noteworthy attributes. Toyota has been relatively terse in its description of the concept, mentioning only “highly responsive controls” specific to electric vehicles. This phrase alludes to the potential inclusion of precise torque vectoring systems, enabled by the independent control of electric motors. Furthermore, Toyota suggests that the concept’s wide and low design will enhance its overall handling prowess.
Regarding Toyota’s broader electric sports car plans, the automaker has divulged minimal information. However, Akio Toyoda, Toyota’s Chairman and former CEO, disclosed earlier in the year his direct involvement in the development of an electric sports car for the company. Notably, he confirmed that the vehicle would offer a manual transmission, complete with a clutch pedal, and would generate distinctive engine sounds. Nevertheless, production approval for this endeavor remains pending.
While Toyota’s electric sports car awaits official confirmation, its luxury division, Lexus, has already outlined its intentions. Lexus is on track to introduce an electric supercar, potentially featuring cutting-edge solid-state battery technology and boasting a blistering 0-60 mph acceleration time in the low 2.0-second range. Enthusiasts can anticipate seeing this electrifying supercar in showrooms later in this decade.
Joining the FT-Se on Toyota’s presentation at the Tokyo Auto Show are an array of other electrified concepts, including the FT-3e crossover, the EPU mid-size pickup truck, and an SUV bearing the revered Land Cruiser badge. These offerings collectively demonstrate Toyota’s dedication to electrification across various segments of the automotive market.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Electric Sports Car
What is the FT-Se electric sports car concept unveiled by Toyota?
The FT-Se is Toyota’s electric sports car concept showcased at the 2023 Tokyo Auto Show. It represents Toyota’s commitment to electric vehicle innovation.
What are the key features of the FT-Se concept?
The FT-Se boasts a mid-engine layout, active aerodynamics, a yoke-style steering wheel (suggesting steer-by-wire technology), and a trio of screens. Toyota emphasizes “highly responsive controls” unique to electric vehicles.
How is Gazoo Racing involved in the FT-Se concept?
The FT-Se concept is badged as a product from Gazoo Racing, indicating the motorsport division’s participation in its development, likely contributing to its performance and design enhancements.
What did Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda reveal about an electric sports car?
Akio Toyoda, Toyota’s Chairman, disclosed personal involvement in an electric sports car’s development, confirming the inclusion of a manual transmission and engine sounds. However, production approval remains pending.
What is Lexus’s role in the electric sports car landscape?
Lexus, Toyota’s luxury division, is planning an electric supercar with solid-state battery technology, targeting rapid acceleration times. This supercar is anticipated to be available in showrooms later in the decade.
What other electrified concepts did Toyota showcase at the Tokyo Auto Show?
Alongside the FT-Se, Toyota presented other electrified concepts, including the FT-3e crossover, the EPU mid-size pickup truck, and an SUV with the Land Cruiser badge, highlighting the brand’s broad electrification efforts.
More about Electric Sports Car
- Toyota Official Website
- 2023 Tokyo Auto Show Highlights
- Gazoo Racing Official Website
- Akio Toyoda’s Involvement in Electric Sports Car
- Lexus Electric Supercar Plans
- Toyota’s Electrified Concept Vehicles
5 comments
FT-Se and all those concepts, Toyota’s makin’ moves. Can’t wait to see these on the road.
Electric supercar? Lexus ain’t messin’ around. The future of performance is electric, no doubt!
Wow, this FT-Se concept is excitin’. Gazoo Racing sounds cool too! Lexus goin’ electric with a supercar? Nice!
Akio Toyoda sure got some big plans for Toyota. Manual transmission, engine sounds, that’s legit.
Electric cars at the Tokyo show, that’s the future. Toyota’s pushin’ the EV game hard. Love it!