Toyota Concept Cars Stand
Out at 35th Tokyo Motor Show
TOKYO--Toyota Motor Corporation
unveiled its new prototypes and production vehicles at the 35th Tokyo Motor
Show.
New Toyota
hybrid vehicles include the Estima Hybrid, the world's first hybrid minivan
and first mass-produced hybrid 4WD vehicle, as well as the FCHV-5, a fuel
cell hybrid prototype with an on-board reformer to convert clean hydrocarbon
fuel (CHF) into hydrogen.
Toyota's commitment
to environmentally friendly solutions is represented by the ES3
(e-s-cubic), a prototype diesel sedan which can go 100km on just 2.7 liters
of diesel fuel.
Developed in collaboration
with Sony Corp., the "pod" concept applies AI (artificial intelligence)
to serve as an expressive "partner" to its owner, responding to moods
and encouraging good driving skills.
The WiLL VC concept features
G-Book, Toyota's new information network service, which helps it navigate
the Internet as well as road networks.
The DMT (Dual Mode Traveler)
concept offers on-the-road cruising pleasure complemented by plentiful
space for by-the-road recreation.
The "Voltz" sports utility
wagon (SUW) combines the space of a minivan, sportiness of a coupe and
functionality of an SUV. The smaller "ist" is a sporty compact hatchback
with SUV practicality.
The FXS roadster concept
is powered by a 4.3 liter V8 engine which revs up to 8,000RPM.
The
RSC (Rugged Sports Coupe) is
a pure concept vehicle with chunky, muscular styling.
The Panasonic Toyota Racing team's
Formula 1 test car is on exhibit, as its 2002 Grand Prix debut nears. Toyota
is a full constructor, one of the few automakers participating in Formula
1 to build its own chassis and engine. A Toyota powered CART racing car is
also on display.
Clearly, Toyota's dedication
to continuous improvement and innovation will have an enormous influence on
21st century mobility.
