Toyota’s Electric Future Taking Shape in Tokyo
Tokyo, Japan—Lagging behind the competition when it comes to battery electric vehicles, Toyota is using the 2023 Japan Mobility Show to present its vision for an electric future with the FT-3e crossover and FT-Se sports car, two concepts that embody the automaker’s design direction for next-generation vehicles and attempt to meet the needs of even more drivers.
Allow us to give you a closer look…
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FT-3e
According to Toyota CEO Koji Sato, these new concepts are all about innovating styling and technology. That being said, the FT-3e is no surprise at all because, well, SUVs and crossovers are so damn popular right now.
Featuring sharp lines reminiscent of the current bZ4X, the vehicle incorporates unique displays on the door panels showing the battery’s charge level, cabin temperature and air quality. What for? We’re not sure. The interior has even more displays including a large one at the base of the windshield (you can check it out in the photo gallery above).
FT-Se
Performance enthusiasts will love this concept. The FT-Se was designed and developed as an electric sports car with input from Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division, which boasts five consecutive wins at Le Mans from 2018-2022 and three consecutive WRC manufacturers’ titles from 2021-2023.
The car’s striking looks are supported by a low and wide stance, as well as an extremely aerodynamic and drag-reducing body. Inside is a fully digital HMI offering an immersive driving experience, Toyota claims. Interestingly, there is no centre display, but a smartphone holder is mounted next to the yoke-style steering wheel. Also, foam cushions protect the driver’s body sides during hard cornering.
Both the FT-3e and FT-Se benefit from OTA updates to keep their systems fresh. No technical details were provided as the company preferred to focus on styling. We suspect the future production models will be assembled using Toyota’s new gigacasting system, where the vehicle’s front and rear body structures are made from one single piece, and leverage solid-state batteries that are currently under development.
Kayoibako
Another interesting concept made its debut at the Toyota booth in Tokyo. Called Kayoibako, it’s a small, multi-purpose truck designed for work and recreational applications alike. The name comes from the configurable shipping containers that Toyota uses to transport all kinds of parts between worksites.
“Using the properties of battery EVs, Kayoibako can keep you connected to social infrastructure and service providers and bring more convenience and fun to your work and personal life, anytime and anywhere,” Sato said.