Increasing evidence suggests that Toyota is earnestly moving toward the introduction of an electric sports car.
Following a 2021 concept vehicle that appeared to be a battery-powered version of the modern MR2, the company now intends to showcase a new concept at the upcoming Tokyo auto show, scheduled for later this month. This forthcoming model may serve as a precursor to an electrified next-generation Supra, or a vehicle of similar nature.
Promotional images disseminated on Monday reveal two concept vehicles bound for the Tokyo show: the FT-Se sports car and the FT-3e crossover. The acronym FT stands for “Future Toyota,” which is the nomenclature Toyota employs for concept models that usually foreshadow forthcoming production vehicles.
The automaker has announced that both concept vehicles will feature “highly responsive controls,” a characteristic distinctive to electric vehicles. This suggests the utilization of advanced torque vectoring systems facilitated by independent control of electric motors. Toyota has also indicated that the two vehicles will share key components, adding that the FT-Se will have a low, wide architecture to enhance its handling dynamics. The vehicle’s exterior is specifically engineered to minimize aerodynamic drag.
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Additional Insights on Toyota’s Electric Ambitions
While Toyota has been relatively reticent about its future plans for an electric sports car, Akio Toyoda, the company’s Chairman and former CEO, confirmed his personal involvement in the development of such a vehicle earlier this year. He stated that the proposed car would feature a manual transmission, complete with a clutch pedal, and would emulate traditional engine sounds. However, he also clarified that the vehicle’s production has not yet received official approval.
Lexus Electric Supercar on the Horizon
While Toyota’s electric sports car may still be pending approval, its luxury arm, Lexus, has officially announced plans for an electric supercar. It is anticipated to be equipped with a solid-state battery and is expected to offer 0-60 mph acceleration within the low 2.0-second range.
Upcoming Tokyo Auto Show Details
The Tokyo auto show is set to commence for media representatives on October 25. Lexus plans to utilize the occasion to introduce a sophisticated sedan that will offer a glimpse into next-generation electric vehicle technology, projected to be available around 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Toyota Electric Sports Car
What will Toyota unveil at the 2023 Tokyo Auto Show?
Toyota plans to unveil a new electric sports car concept at the 2023 Tokyo Auto Show. This concept may serve as a precursor to an electrified next-generation Supra or a similar vehicle.
What are the features of Toyota’s new electric sports car concept?
The new electric sports car concept is expected to feature highly responsive controls, made possible by advanced torque vectoring systems facilitated by independent control of electric motors. The concept will also have a low, wide architecture designed to enhance its handling dynamics.
What does the acronym FT stand for in the context of Toyota’s concept cars?
FT stands for “Future Toyota.” This is the nomenclature that Toyota employs for concept models that typically foreshadow forthcoming production vehicles.
Is Lexus also planning to introduce an electric vehicle?
Yes, Lexus, the luxury arm of Toyota, has confirmed plans for an electric supercar. It is expected to feature a solid-state battery and offer 0-60 mph acceleration in the low 2.0-second range.
What involvement does Akio Toyoda have in Toyota’s electric sports car development?
Akio Toyoda, the Chairman and former CEO of Toyota, has confirmed his personal involvement in the development of the electric sports car. He stated that the car would feature a manual transmission and emulate traditional engine sounds, although the vehicle’s production has not yet received official approval.
When does the 2023 Tokyo Auto Show commence?
The Tokyo Auto Show is scheduled to open for media representatives on October 25.
What else can we expect from Lexus at the 2023 Tokyo Auto Show?
Lexus plans to introduce a sophisticated sedan at the Tokyo Auto Show that will offer a glimpse into next-generation electric vehicle technology, projected to be available around 2026.
More about Toyota Electric Sports Car
- Toyota Official Website
- 2023 Tokyo Auto Show Details
- Lexus Announces Electric Supercar Plans
- Akio Toyoda’s Involvement in Electric Sports Car Development
- Advanced Torque Vectoring in Electric Vehicles