Toyota is showing
us another glimpse of its racing capabilities by detailing the Yaris Hybrid-R, a supermini concept that‘s more than just a flyer. Being
a leader in hybrid technology,
Toyota also wants to let the world know that its newly resurrected love for all
things quick does not detract from its environmental
commitments.
Nevertheless, with the Yaris Hybrid-R they can certainly
have their proverbial cake and eat the damn thing. Just look at the figures. Fitted
with a small 1.6-litre four-cylinder
turbo petrol engine and two electric motors at the rear, the car can
deliver up to an astonishing 309kW (same
as the Audi RS 5 and BMW M3) of power and what we assume
would be over 500Nm of torque (no
figure from Toyota). That is stunning. This being a race-inspired torpedo, a 6-speed sequential gearbox was installed.
Part of the mechanical kit is something called a supercapacitor which can harvest and
store energy for later use. It is has high power density and a fast power
charge/discharge speed. The two electric motors influence the car’s handling via optimum torque distribution between the left and right rear wheels,
where torque is always sent to the wheel needing it the most for grip.
The Toyota Yaris Hybrid-R will be showcased at the 2013 Frankfurt International Motor Show
and if we all put our will power to it, thereafter at the 2013 Johannesburg International Motor Show (JIMS) at the Nasrec
Expo Centre next to the FNB Stadium.
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