A LOOK AT TOYOTA'S FUTURE THROUGH TOKYO 2011

Toyota is using the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show to reinforce its position as an environmental technology leader with one compact hybrid (available soon in Japan) and three concept cars - one available in the near future, one mid-term and one way out there.

Now...
Premiering is the Toyota AQUA (also called the Prius C in certain markets), a compact-class hybrid vehicle that aims to provide the joys of hybrid vehicle ownership, such as superior fuel efficiency, user friendliness and fun at an affordable price.

The AQUA combines the features of a five-seater compact car with hybrid drive to offer groundbreaking fuel efficiency of approximately 2.9 litres per 100km (under the Japanese JC08 test cycle).  

At 3.995 mm long, the AQUA’s stylish proportions and minimised height enhance its aerodynamic performance while still offering interior comfort and ample luggage capacity. The state-of-the-art, compact and lightweight hybrid system combines a 1.5-litre engine with a high-output motor to create the most efficient hybrid powertrain yet. Moreover the system has been packaged to give a low centre of gravity for outstanding handling, agile manoeuvrability and enjoyable operation.

Following its launch in Japan, scheduled for December 2011, the AQUA or Prius C will be sequentially rolled out to other regions worldwide, except the European market. Toyota SA Motors is currently investigating the feasibility of widening the Prius range, however, this will not take place in the short term. 

Near Future…
Based on the Toyota iQ, the FT-EV III (Future Toyota – Electric Vehicle III) is a four-seater electric vehicle concept suitable for short-distance trips. Toyota is developing EV technology with the aim of launching a vehicle suitable for short-distance travel in 2012.  Equipped with a lithium-ion battery, the FT-EV III achieves an estimated cruising range of 170 km on a fully charged battery (under the Japanese JC08 test cycle).

Mid term…
The FCV-R (Fuel Cell Vehicle – Reality & Revolution) concept, measuring 4.7 metres in length, is a practical, family sized vehicle fuelled by hydrogen. This concept model represents the next step towards the commercial launch of a Toyota fuel cell vehicle by 2015.

With the fuel-cell unit located beneath the specially designed bodyshell, the vehicle can accommodate up to four passengers and boasts impressive luggage space. The fuel cell stack, with a 70 MPa high-pressure hydrogen tank, has been improved to provide a cruising distance of approximately 700km (under the Japanese JC08 test cycle).

… and Far Out!
The Toyota Fun-Vii ( Fun-Vehicle interactive internet) concept heralds Toyota’s vision of a future where people, cars and society are linked.

STORY BY TOYOTA