FT-HS, the hybrid sports car in concept

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2007 Salon International d'Auto et Accessoires, Geneva, Switzerland

Toyota FT-HS, hybrid sports car concept

Toyota’s commitment to develop a full and wide range of hybrid cars is clearly demonstrated by the European debut of the FT-HS concept at the Geneva Motor Show. FT-HS, Future Toyota Hybrid Sports, is designed to show that, using Toyota’s advanced Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive® technology, the sports cars of the future can offer a powerful driving experience as well as outstanding environmental performance.

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By combining a potent hybrid powertrain with essential sports cars fundamentals, such as striking style and driver focused function and performance, FT-HS overcomes the perception that eco-friendliness must compromise driving pleasure.

The Toyota research and design centre based in North America, called Calty, was assigned the task of creating a mid-priced sports car that integrates ecology and emotion in a concept addressing the question “What is a suitable sports car for the 21st Century?”

So, the FT-HS incorporates hybrid capability while maintaining sports car essentials, such as a sleek profile, lightweight aero-dynamic materials and an advanced high-output powertrain for outstanding acceleration and optimum performance.

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FT-HS concept is a front-engine, rear-drive sports car with a projected 0-100 km/h acceleration in the four-second range. A powerful V6, 3.5-litre engine is coupled with a next generation, sports hybrid system with a target power output of approximately 400 horsepower. The FT-HS performance parameters demonstrate the potential of hybrid technology, enabling Toyota to push forward to new frontiers.

Sports car performance and driver focus is enhanced by the all-new platform and independent suspension with coil springs, gas-filled struts and front and rear anti-roll bars.

The exterior design follows the core values of the Toyota brand design philosophy under two consistent themes: J-Factor and Vibrant Clarity. J-Factor refers to the local and global acceptance of Japanese-inspired design and cultural form. It is what allows FT-HS concept to stand out as a Toyota with global appeal. Vibrant Clarity is the design language used to express the J-factor. It is the combination of perfect imbalance, freeform geometrics and integrated component architecture to create Toyota models that are forward looking and energetic while retaining a clarity of purpose and rationality.

Exterior designer, Alex Shen says: “The result of these elements is subtractive mass, a minimalist style that is not only lightweight, but also looks lightweight. The theme of the FT-HS achieves sleek, taut surfaces in its exterior features, especially in the doors and body style. The front and rear have been sculpted to remove mass around key functional components. Freeform geometrics define the integration of fluid surfaces contrasting with hard-edge ‘Aero-Corners’ which promote smooth airflow and reduce turbulence.”

FT-HS is a four seat sports coupe concept with a unique retractable roof. Made from carbon fibre Kevlar, the roof panel and back window pivot fluidly in a downward motion to stow in the rear seat space. In this configuration FT-HS becomes a two seater. The operation can be completed in around 10 seconds. When raised, the roof has a distinctive scooped-out section designed to reduce aerodynamic drag and provide headroom at the key areas.

The vehicle’s triangular profile has a floating “C” pillar, sharp edges and flowing curves. Up front, the aggressive nose reveals narrow headlamp strips and deep air intake scoops. The smoked glass engine cover allows a tantalising view of the advanced Hybrid Synergy Drive® powertrain.

Integrated component architecture can be seen in the aerospace-inspired lighting. The tail lamp unit spans the entire rear and has an integrated retractable spoiler. Light-emitting diode (LED) clusters are located in the headlamps and the wing for energy-efficiency and reduced heat loss.

Other exterior features include a speed-activated wing that elevates at high speed for additional stability and traction. The rear showcases a carbon fibre lower diffuser with integrated wide exhaust and carbon fibre wheels. The driver-oriented interior exudes sleekness, technology, and performance. The lean skeletal look is achieved with exposed cross-car architecture and high-tech materials such as carbon fibre and titanium.

By eliminating the “B” pillar and creating a suspended “C” pillar, the minimalist style works in conjunction with subtractive mass.

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An integrated instrument panel surrounds the driver, creating an enclosed delta-wing pod which integrates many useful functions into a lightweight structural unit.

All of the important functions and details are presented almost exclusively to the driver. For example, touch-trace sensors surround the driver and act as tactile guides for finger controls when traveling at high speeds. A telescoping hub-less steering wheel incorporates semi-automatic paddle shifters and allows the meter to be shifted forward in order to shorten the driver’s focus-time from the road to the instrumentation.

Seating is optimized for a lightweight appearance and function: the passenger-seat area is open with a simple exposed airbag on the cross-car beam. Armrests flow seamlessly into the door and surrounding interior.

With a potential mid-market price position, FT-HS would appeal to eco-conscious customers who want to retain sports car driving appeal while minimizing damage to the environment. They are likely to be people for whom new technologies are welcome necessities of life, not luxuries. FT-HS: a sports car for the 21st century

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March 08, 2007

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