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Here’s a quick review of some of the weird and wonderful concept
vehicles that Toyota plans to exhibit at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show
under the theme of Harmonious Drive, a New Tomorrow for People and the
Planet.
The 1/X has interior space
similar to that of the Prius, but is aiming for double its fuel
efficiency, with its weight reduced to 420 kilograms (about one third
the weight of the Prius), as the car’s body is constructed from light
but rigid carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP).
It’s
an FFV (flexible fuel vehicle), which means that it’s capable of
running on petrol and ethanol, and has a plug-in hybrid powertrain just
500cc in size. This means battery charging is possible from an external
power source which allows a longer electric-motor cruising distance.
Toyota
says that its RiN concept promotes a healthier well-being with features
such as special seats, image displays aligned with the driver’s
psychological state, and an oxygen-level conditioner.
The
i-REAL is a personal mobility vehicle with three wheels (two at the
front and one at the back) that is shorter in low-speed mode, for
manoeuvering among pedestrians, than it is at higher speeds, when it
stretches itself. It has perimeter monitoring sensors to detect when a
collision with a person or object is imminent and alerts the driver.
The iQ CONCEPT is less than three metres long, but fits three adults and one child (or luggage) inside.
The
Hi-CT is designed to be a cool, edgy, urban vehicle for young drivers.
It has plug-in hybrid technology, allowing it to charge from an
external power source and so giving it a greater driving range. It has
a removable rear luggage compartment and a deck where surfboards,
bicycles and other equipment can be loaded.
The
Crown Hybrid Concept’s latest hybrid system, VDIM (Vehicle Dynamics
Integrated Management), has a two-stage motor speed reduction device
that helps with high fuel efficiency, low CO2 and other exhaust
emissions and quietness, yet also good acceleration.
The FT- HS is a next-generation rear-wheel drive hybrid sports car with a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine.
Let’s see how quickly Toyota gets these ideas to market.
