Toyota Showcases World Premieres of Concept SUV and Sports EVs at Japan Mobility Show
TOYOTA | Toyota
Presenting the Future of Cars, Transformed by Electrification and Intelligence
Toyota Motor Corporation will exhibit at the "Japan Mobility Show 2023," opening to the public at Tokyo Big Sight from October 28th, with a booth themed "Let's Change the Future of Cars - Find Your Future." They will showcase electric vehicle (BEV) concept models such as the SUV "FT-3e," the "Land Cruiser Se," and the high-performance sports model "FT-Se."
Text by YANAKA Tomomi
A Car That Adapts Its Ride to Your Personal Style
The "Japan Mobility Show," a significant evolution from the previous "Tokyo Motor Show," will feature a wide array of the latest concept models that evoke the future of automobiles, as well as mobility solutions designed to solve societal challenges and expand people's travel possibilities.
Toyota's world premieres at this show include the SUV concept model "FT-3e," the sports concept model "FT-Se," and the "KAYOIBAKO" concept model, which Toyota describes as enabling one to "do what they want, when they want, where they want."
"FT-3e" (right) and "FT-Se" (left)
The "FT-3e" and "FT-Se" are concept models that propose a future of cars transformed by electrification and intelligence, and the new experiential value that automobiles can bring.
Toyota envisions future mobility not just as a tool for physical transportation, but as a life partner that aligns with individual values. They believe cars can evolve into unique, cherished possessions by allowing users to customize their ride to their personal taste or seamlessly search for city information while inside the vehicle.
"FT-3e"
The "FT-3e" features an exterior with deliberately simple surfaces and lines. A digital signage display runs along the side body from the lower section up to the doors, showing information such as battery level, interior temperature, and air quality as the driver approaches the vehicle.
Meanwhile, the high-performance sports BEV "FT-Se" is proposed as one of the options for sports cars in the carbon-neutral era, embodying the philosophy of "making better cars starting from motorsports" pursued by Toyota Gazoo Racing.
While sharing key components with the "FT-3e," it further pursues handling stability and aerodynamic performance. The design adopts a wide and low proportion and a one-form silhouette that conveys an advanced impression, while also reducing air resistance.
The interior features a full-digital next-generation cockpit for intuitive operation, enhancing the sense of immersion in driving. It aims to be a car that grows with the driver through software updates.
From Electric Wheelchairs to Space Vehicles: Mobility Solutions Addressing Societal Issues and Expanding Travel
At the "Japan Mobility Show 2023" booth, the "KAYOIBAKO" concept model will be presented in a show format. Based on the concept of a "returnable box" used for safely and efficiently transporting parts and products between locations, this model expresses the future of mobility.
"KAYOIBAKO"
The base vehicle is a BEV, and it can be customized in both software and hardware for various roles. For business use, it can be adapted into a mobile shop or a small bus for community needs. For private use, it can be customized to suit individual hobbies and lifestyles.
It can also cater to diverse desires such as "I want to use it this way" or "I want to live this kind of lifestyle." Furthermore, it contributes to providing "freedom of mobility" by being designed for easy boarding and transfer to the driver's seat, even for wheelchair users.
"Land Cruiser Se"
Additionally, the "Land Cruiser Se" hints at a new direction for the Land Cruiser brand. This concept model offers the torque-rich driving characteristic of BEVs, featuring a monocoque body with three rows of seats. It combines the exceptional quietness of electric vehicles with the off-road capability required for confident driving on rough terrain.
The next-generation mid-size pickup truck concept, the BEV "EPU," is also on display. With a length of over 5 meters and a double-cab specification, its monocoque construction offers a versatile deck space and a unique pass-through design at the rear of the cabin, suggesting a wide range of potential uses.
Personal mobility options are also abundant. The "Land Hopper" is a three-wheeled electric personal mobility concept with two front wheels. It is foldable and can be stored in the trunk of a car, where space is limited.
"Land Hopper"
It can be operated by individuals aged 16 and over without a driver's license. It is envisioned for use in touring after reaching a destination by car, or as mobility for those who have returned their licenses, due to its low seat height that allows feet to easily reach the ground and its ease of mounting and dismounting.
Its distinctive leaning mechanism, which allows the left and right front wheels connected by chains and springs to move up and down, provides an exhilarating, integrated riding experience entirely different from cars or bicycles.
And then there is the "JUU," an electric wheelchair-type concept mobility designed with the concept of "freely moving anywhere, alone," featuring both off-road capability and stylish design.
"JUU"
Notably, it can ascend and descend stairs. Two large drive wheels on each side overcome steps, while a retractable flipper stored behind the backrest deploys to control the wheelchair's tilt. It can reportedly handle stairs up to 16 cm high, supporting the mobility and independence of people with disabilities and expanding their opportunities for employment.
Prototype of "Space Mobility" (left)
Other exhibits include a prototype of "Space Mobility," envisioned for use on the moon and in space, and the "Neo Steer" cockpit concept, which integrates controls like acceleration and braking into the steering wheel, allowing individuals with lower limb impairments to drive safely and intuitively with both hands.
Cockpit concept "Neo Steer"
The "Japan Mobility Show 2023" will hold its press day on October 25th and will be open to the public from October 28th to November 4th.
Inquiries
TOYOTA Customer Service Center Tel. 0800-700-7700 (9:00-18:00) https://toyota.jp
