Tag: Toyota

  • 12 Months to Toyota FCV Production

    Toyota-FCV-concept-medium

    News from the future. The Toyota FCV (Fuel Cell Vehicle) is almost ready. The production model reveal is only 12 months away. Is this the beginning of the end of the hybrid car? Fingers crossed.

    What’s wrong with hybrids you ask? Well, they are slow, unimaginative, their range never meets the expectations, their batteries are dependent on the weather, they take days to recharge, and, believe it or not, they are still sort of bad for the environment.

    Hydrogen, on the other hand, is the most abundant chemical element in the universe and using it as fuel produces zero emissions. In order to make electricity, fuel-cells acquire oxygen from the environment and add hydrogen to make a chemical reaction which releases energy and a waste product known as water. Toyota engineers are adamant that you could go for about 500 miles on a single tank of hydrogen. Technically, on two tanks – the Toyota FCV actually has two 70 MegaPascal each. We don’t know why that’s relevant. There are no other certain figures, however, except an estimated system output of at least 100kW. Oh, and there’s the price – $108,00. Too much for a Camry you think? Would you consider plugging it in your electrical grid at home then? Because you can and a single charge can satisfy your needs for about a week. Also, it looks pretty amazing. We are especially fond of these LED indicators hidden within the fenders. It’s supposed to gave a “flowing liquid” door profile and a wave-motif fuel cap while the back end draws inspiration from the stem of a catamaran. Right.

    Toyota are anticipating the widespread use of hydrogen fuels for cars to be common sometime in the 2020s. Because of the FCV, Toyota see themselves as pioneers, and while no one can take that away from them, we can’t neglect Honda’s audacious attempts to mull in the Honda Clarity. In any case, Toyota seems to be pretty serious about the technology. They are already developing fuel-cell buses, forklifts and other industrial vehicles. Greener days are to come if this trend keeps up.

    Source: Toyota

  • 2015 Toyota Harrier Gets Redesigned

    2015 Toyota Harrier Front

    The redesigned 2015 Toyota Harrier crossover SUV will be launched in Japan on 2nd of December. A hybrid model of the version is scheduled for release on 15th January 2014. The new model will include distinctive design and innovative features, quiet cabin, enhanced suspension and aerodynamic performance.

    It will offer its customers elegant and streamlined exterior and an interior that features innovative styling and expresses distinctiveness. In addition, the hybrid model will be powered by a 2.5-liter engine and hybrid system, thanks to which it will achieve fuel efficiency of 21.8 km/L2.

    The facelifted 2015 Toyota Harrier has a new long front and short rear overhangs that lend additional dynamism to the side profile, while horizontally accented styling and forward-leaning quarter pillars give a sleek, speedy look. There is also a dramatic curve on the front bumpers which goes towards the rear and creates a powerful, compact front end.

    For the lights, Toyota has used LED lamps, which have been made standard in all grades. As an option there is also available are clearance lamps and boldly shaped rear combination lamps with gradient brightness.

    Going inside the car, one can see a premium and contemporary interior that includes padded surfaces with accented stitching and wood grain ornamentation. At the center there is a cluster with touch-sensitive electrostatic switches that combines with an arch-roofed instrument panel to create a spacious and sporty interior.

    A lot of attention has been paid to the details. Such instances are the door handle with a softly-curving form that flows from the instrument panel, front door trim ornamented with an embossed Harrier seal, console pockets that make optimum use of the space alongside the center console, and the harmonized shape of the door speakers and dashboard instruments.

    The vehicle will be offered with the choice of seven exterior colors. A very impressive distinctive dark shades is the new Sparkling Black Pearl Crystal Shine paint. On the other hand, the interior will be made available in three colors, including a Deep Bordeaux one.

    The cabin of the 2016 Toyota Harrier will offer its occupants quietness made possible through the utilization of sound-absorbing and sound-blocking materials. Moreover, the 2015 Toyota Harrier’s suspension is improved through the use of Frequency Adaptive Damping (FAD) shock absorbers which control the degree of vehicle roll and pitch, automatically adjusting shock absorber damping characteristics to compensate for vehicle posture changes.

    2015 Toyota Harrier Interior

    Furthermore, the electric power steering, handling stability and riding comfort are enhanced via the new Harrier’s more compact body, utilization of high-tensile steel plates, and improved methods for joining body parts.

    There are being offered gasoline engine models which feature Dynamic Torque Control 4WD for automatic control of front-wheel and 4-wheel drive conditions. On the other hand, the integrated operation with S-VSC (Steering-assisted Vehicle Stability Control) delivers excellent stability on both slippery and dry surfaces.

    There is also available the E-Four system in hybrid models, which controls front and rear wheel slippage, ensuring traction performance on slippery surfaces. Additionally, this system also optimizes torque distribution to the front and rear wheels in response to driving conditions.

    2015 Toyota Harrier has shortened exterior proportions. However, it still provides a roomy interior with an extra 47 mm of legroom. What is more, some of Toyota’s most advanced features are available on the redesigned vehicle.

    These include a Panoramic View Monitor, Lane Departure Alert (LDA) system, Pre-collision System (with millimeter-wave radar), Intelligent Clearance Sonar detects obstacles when starting off, and Drive-start Control.

    The Hybrid models will be powered as mentioned by the 2.5-liter 2AR-FXE engine and hybrid system. Together they achieve significantly enhanced fuel economy of 21.8 km/L2 and CO2 emissions of 106 gCO2/km.

    Next, the gasoline engine models are equipped with a 2.0-liter Valvematic engine and newly developed continuously variable transmission. Two-wheel drive models also include Toyota Stop & Start System. The later achieves improved fuel efficiency of 16.0 km/L and CO2 emissions of 145 gCO2/km.

    2015 Toyota Harrier Crossover SUV Specifications (Hybrid variant):

    Engine Displacement 2,493 cc
    Maximum output 112 kW [152 PS] / 5,700 rpm
    Maximum torque 206 N-m [21.0 kgf-m] /
    4,400-4,800 rpm
    Motor Front Maximum output 105 kW [143 PS]
    Maximum torque 270 N-m [27.5 kgf-m]
    Rear Maximum output 50 kW [68 PS]
    Maximum torque 139 N-m [14.2 kgf-m]
    Complete system Maximum output 145 kW [197 PS]

    Source: Toyota

  • Toyota 86 Sports Car To Be Modified Into Rally Version

    Toyota-GT86-Cuphr-THUMBToyota 86 sports car will be converted into a thrilling rally vehicle by Toyota Motorsport in Germany (TMG). The team there will develop the rear-wheel drive vehicle into an R3 rally car. The aim is to make it available to private competitors. The delivery of the model is expected for the 2015 season.

    The modified vehicle will carry the name TMG GT86 CS-R3 and will be constructed in accordance to the R3 regulations. This means that it will be equipped with a six-speed sequential gearbox, limited slip differential, modified engine and adapted brakes.

    TMG professionals have promised to tune the 86 to the maximum level permitted within the regulations. The new rally car will be also eligible for all FIA-sanctioned rallies including the World Rally Championship.

    The GT86 CS-R3 promises to be a thrilling car on the rally stages. It has a rear-wheel drive and this can only result in dramatic action, which will be undoubtedly entertaining for drivers and fans. Unfortunately, the additional details around the TMG GT86 CS-R3 as well as its price will be announced in the coming months.

    Toyota 86 sports car has a 2.0-litre four-cylinder, front-mounted, free-revving and horizontally opposed “boxer” petrol engine which drives the rear wheels. It develops a maximum power of 200 hp (147 kW) and a peak torque of 205 Nm (151 lb-ft). All that power is transmitted on the road via six-speed manual or sequential-shift automatic transmissions.

    Source: Toyota

  • Toyota To Make Five Global Debuts At Tokyo Motor Show

    Toyota-FT86-Open-Concept-THUMBToyota is going to make five world-premieres of concept vehicles at this year’s Tokyo Motor Show, which will start on 20th of November in the Japanese city. All of the concepts were created under the slogan “Fun to Drive, Again” which conveys brand’s vision of a future mobility society that values the joy of driving.

    The concepts on display at the event are: Toyota FCV (Fuel Cell Vehicle) Concept, Toyota FV2 (Fun Vehicle 2), Toyota JPN Taxi Concept, Toyota Voxy Concept and Noah Concept, Toyota Aqua G Sports Compact Sports Hybrid, Toyota i-Road and at last but not least – Toyota FT-86 Open Concept.
    The first global debut is for Toyota FCV which is a practical concept of the fuel cell vehicle Toyota plans to launch around 2015. It is powered by hydrogen and has a driving range of at least 500 km and refueling times as low as three minutes.

    The vehicle’s exterior design is inspired by the transformation of air into water as the system produces electricity, as well as the powerful acceleration enabled by the electric drive motor. The bold front view includes pronounced air intakes.

    The car also has sleek sides that convey the air-to-water transformation with its flowing-liquid door profile and wave-motif fuel cap. The same theme is used for the creation of the rear, which conveys a catamaran’s stern and the flow of water behind.

    The vehicle can perfectly accommodate four persons thanks to the special design body beneath which are positioned the light-weight FC Stack and two 70 MPa high-pressure hydrogen tanks.
    The Toyota FC Stack has a power output density of 3 kW/L as well as an output of at least 136 hp (100 kW). The FC system is equipped with Toyota’s high-efficiency boost converter.
    Toyota FCV Concept Dimensions:

    Length(mm) Width (mm) Height (mm) Wheelbase (mm) Occupancy
    4,870 1,810 1,535 2,780 4



    The next world premiere is for Toyota FV2 which is a very special concept car that shows the brand’s vision for the future. It is interesting that this concept does not use a steering wheel, but operates by the driver shifting their body to intuitively move the vehicle forward and back, left and right.

    Furthermore, by the utilization of intelligent transport system technology to connect with other vehicles in the area and traffic infrastructure, Toyota FV2 provides the perfect safety driving. In such cases it signals with various advanced warnings about vehicles in blind spots at intersections.

    What is even more spectacular here is that Toyota envisions an ever-developing driver-vehicle relationship. This will happen via the incorporation of “Toyota Heart Project”. To be more precise, the vehicle uses voice and image recognition to determine the driver’s mood, accumulated driving history to suggest destinations, and driving skill information. In addition to an augmented reality (AR) display on the windshield, the body color and exterior display can be changed at will.

    Toyota FV2 Dimensions:

    Length(mm) Width(mm) Height(mm) Wheelbase(mm) Occupancy
    3,000 1,600 990 (sleep mode) 2,360 1
    1,780 (driving mode)


    The third concept vehicle is Toyota’s vision for a new Taxi: the JPN Taxi Concept. You can follow the highlighted link and read about it in details.
    Toyota JPN Taxi Concept Dimensions:

    Length(mm) Width(mm) Height(mm) Wheelbase(mm) Occupancy
    4,350 1,695 1,700 2,750 5


    The next premieres are for the Toyota Voxy Concept and Noah Concept which are the next-generation spacious minivans that offer a roomy interior needed demanded by families. To the vehicles has been added low-floor package which creates a class-leading roomy interior with outstanding ease of ingress and egress.

    Furthermore, these Toyota concepts are seven-seaters that include ultra-long sliding Captain Seats in the second row, providing a diverse range of seating arrangements. They are equipped with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine variant and a 1.8-liter hybrid variant with a full hybrid system.
    The front end of the Noah Concept is sophisticated while the Voxy Concept employs exclusive aerodynamic parts to emphasize the low center of gravity, impressive wide-body, and the overwhelming sense of presence. Market versions of the vehicles are planned for launch in the Japanese market in early 2014.
    Toyota Voxy Concept and Noah Concept Dimensions:

    Vehicle Length (mm) Width(mm) Height (mm) Wheelbase (mm) Occupancy
    Voxy Concept (as pictured) 4,710 1,730 1,825 2,850 7
    Noah Concept (as pictured) 4,695 1,695 1,825 2,850 7

    The fifth model in the line of concept vehicles is Aqua G Sports which has a powerful, sleek and inspiring design and excellent fuel efficiency. Moreover, the car has been fully tuned by GAZOO Racing and its market version will be launched in the Japanese market in late November.

    Toyota Aqua G Sports Dimensions:

    Length(mm) Width(mm) Height(mm) Wheelbase (mm) Occupancy
    4,055 1,695 1,420 2,550 5


    Toyota i-Road Concept is not an unfamiliar vehicle, because it made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show. Now, this ultra-compact mobility car is ready to conquer Japan.

    Toyota i-Road Dimensions:

    Length(mm) Width(mm) Height(mm) Wheelbase(mm) Occupancy
    2,350 850 1,445 1,700 2


    At last, Toyota FT-86 Open Concept is based on the rear-wheel-drive 86 sports car. It includes an electrically operated soft top, as well as a new “Flash Red” body color, which was used specifically for the Tokyo Motor Show.

    FT-86 Open Concept Dimensions:

    Length(mm) Width(mm) Height(mm) Wheelbase(mm) Occupancy
    4,240 1,775 1,270 2,570 4

    Source: Toyota

  • Toyota JPN Taxi Concept To Debut At Tokyo Motor Show

    Toyota-JPN-Taxi-Concept-THUMBToyota JPN Taxi Concept is Toyota’s vision for a new generation of Japanese taxi, which will be officially unveiled during this year’s Tokyo Motor Show. The event will have its beginning on 20th of November.

    Despite the fact that there’s no “for hire” sign yet which is projected on the blue display panel above the windscreen, it’s been conceived by the brand in line with the Japanese government’s programme for designing buses and taxis that are more user-friendly.

    As one can see from the pictures, the vehicle has unique proportions which are designed in order to be in complete harmony with the urban lifestyle. In addition it is extremely agile and offers ease of access for passengers, especially children and older people.

    In particular, JPN Taxi Concept has a high cabin, low floor and electric sliding door that will deliver effortless utilization. In addition, the car comes with a new powertrain, namely – the LPG hybrid system. The latter is promised to offer great eco-friendly characteristics.

    The seats in the cab are five and it is equipped with a large interior monitor showing passenger information including the route to the destination and the fare.

    Source: Toyota

  • Toyota Dream Build Challenge Let’s Go Moto Tundra

    The last vehicle to compete in Toyota Dream Build Challenge is called Let’s Go Moto Tundra. It was created as a result of the collaboration between two motocross athletes – Josh Grant and Justin Brayton and Toyota.

    The modified Tundra is the ultimate desert sports machine. With some help from JGRMX and N-FAB, this Toyota vehicle now has expandable electronic awnings and TV screens, along with all motocross gear and attitude.

    As one can see the size of this Tundra is very unusual. The team kept the front half of the 2014 Tundra with a CrewMax cabin and swapped in an 8-foot long truck bed from another Tundra. In addition, there was added a custom-built metal box that serves in terms of accommodation of the length of a motocross bike, plus three TV screens on doors that swing open.

    To be more precise, one of the TVs plays off a game console so the riders have entertainment between competitions, while the second one can play DVDs and a third – bike engine diagnostics. For the functionality of the truck contribute a fridge, power washer, helmet dryer and space for tools, back-up gear and hydrogen tanks.

    At last, the entire vehicle was lifted from the ground by nearly 12 inches to handle the rugged desert terrain. The two Team Toyota athletes and their partners had only seven weeks in this year’s Toyota Dream Build Challenge to modify a vehicle and make it unique.

    The winner will be announced on 5th of November at SEMA Show. To win, Grant and Brayton must score the greatest number of votes among the other competators: the freestyle skier Simon Dumont with partner Oakley with the Ultimate Dream Ski 4Runner; BMX rider Drew Bezanson with partner Skullcandy and the 2014 Corolla tuned for performance and NASCAR driver Parker Kligerman with partner Kyle Busch Motorsports, who transformed a 2013 Camry into a rally car.

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Toyota

  • Toyota Dream Build Challenge Ultimate Dream Ski 4Runner [VIDEO]

    Toyota Dream Build Challenge Ultimate Dream Ski 4Runner is the third entry in Japanese brand’s competition and its design is focused on freestyle skiing. In fact, it is all about the cold weather.

    For this project, Toyota has partnered with the athlete Simon Dumont and Oakley in order to enhance the 4Runner and make it more aggressive than ever but also to equip it with varios comforts.

    The Ultimate Dream Ski 4Runner has an oversized front grill work, a dark Oakley camouflage-patterned vehicle wrap, LED lights and a rugged, metal roof rack designed to electronically lower and open to store two sets of skis.

    In terms of comfort, this vehicle adds customized experience, thanks to the doors, music, windows and other interior features which are being controlled by three separate iPads. Inside, there is also a coffeemaker, a dryer for each glove and boot and a mountable grill stored in the rear cargo area.

    Dumont is a Team Toyota member, and is one of the best freestyle skiers in the world who will compete in the 2014 Winter Olympics. His custom ride is one of four entries in this year’s Toyota Dream Build Challenge.

    Source: Toyota

  • Toyota Dream Build Challenge CamRally [VIDEO]

    2013-Toyota-Dream-Build-Challenge-CamRally-THUMbThe next vehicle in Toyota’s line-up readied for SEMA Show is the CamRally. The car is also part of the Toyota Dream Build Challenge like the Crusher Corolla. Under the lights in this case is the SNASCAR driver Parker Kligerman, who collaborated with Kyle Busch Motorsports in order to modify 2013 Camry SE into the “CamRally”.
    The exterior color of this Toyota vehicle is decided in the combination of red, orange and yellow. The other featured modifications here create a real, road-ready rally car. For instance the racing seats, turbos, racing windows, a roll cage, powerful brakes and heat protection add functionality and safety to the car for rough terrain.

    In addition, the fog lights and an aerodynamic package as well as the CamRally logo with Kligerman’s racing number 77, additionally improve the qualities of the car.

    For the Toyota Dream Build Challenge the brand invited five athletes and big-name partners to put the athlete’s passion into a vehicle. The winning vehicle will be the one gathered the most votes from fans, and will be announced on 5th of November at SEMA Show.

    The other competitors are freestyle skier Simon Dumont with partner Oakley; BMX rider Drew Bezanson with partner Skullcandy and supercross stars Justin Brayton and Josh Grant with partner Joe Gibbs Racing Motocross.

    httpv://youtu.be/oJk3tDx9n-Y

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Toyota

  • Toyota Dream Build Challenge Crusher Corolla Ready For SEMA [VIDEO]

    2013-Toyota-Dream-Build-Challenge-Crusher-Corolla-THUMBThis year SEMA Show will be definitely enriched by the participation of the Japanese brand Toyota. With the announcement of the company’s competition Toyota Dream Build Challenge several vehicles are coming to live and are currently being on presented.

    Such one is the Toyota Dream Build Challenge Crusher Corolla which is the result of the joint forces of BMX rider and Team Toyota athlete Drew Bezanson and Skullcandy. To the car were added custom grind rails added to the front and rear of the vehicle, rally wheels and a rack that mounts two bikes along the vehicle’s back window.

    If one removes the bicycles, the trunk is opened and there one sees bike tools, and pair of mountable speakers with light bars. Inside the Corolla there can be found custom iPad, which controls the interior. An interesting highlight is the upgraded speakers shaped in the Skullcandy logo.

    For this year Toyota has invited for the popular challenge five athletes and big-name partners to put the athlete’s passion into a vehicle. The winning vehicle will be the one gathered the most votes from fans, and will be announced on 5th of November at SEMA Show.

    httpv://youtu.be/Fmb72olIi7s

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Toyota

  • Toyota Sharpens 2014 Prado Range

    2014-LandCruiser-Prado-THUMBToyota LandCruiser Prado which was unveiled more than a month ago is retaining its best-seller status ahead thanks to its advanced model upgrade as well as being one of the most popular large SUVs around the globe.

    The refreshed Prado will be sold exclusively as a five-door wagon due to customers’ preference for this body style. Other exclusively preferable features in this Toyota model are its off-road and towing capabilities.

    The new Prado also benefits from expanded driver guidance and technical support features. The facelifted model has a bolder exterior, a more refined interior, added safety and even sharper handling.

    Other exterior highlights include new structural elements from its unique design heritage, an evolution of the classic Prado grille and a vertical, two-step construction which additionally undelines vehicle’s rugged appearance.

    The interior of the model adds a comprehensive range of features, new switchgear and instrumentation with enhanced trim and ornamentation, improved second and third row seat designs with new fabrics, and new interior color schemes. 2014 Toyota LandCruiser Prado will be powered by either a 4.0-litre petrol or a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine.

    Source: Toyota

  • 2014 Toyota Harrier

    2014 Toyota Harrier will be sold exclusively in Japan. Essentially, it is a Lexus RX with slightly modified body.

    The exterior comes with significantly modified front fascia compared to the RX, darkened headlamps, an Avalon-like large air intake as well as what appears to be a glossy transparent plastic grille. At the back there are stylish slender taillights and a roof-mounted spoiler.

    The drivetrain includes a 3.5 liter V6 petrol and two electric motors and a Ni-MH battery. The combined power is 295HP (220 kW), which is more than enough. 0-100 km/h in 7.8 seconds and a top speed of 200 km/h (124 mph). It is derived from the RX 450h.

    Stay tuned for more details and pricing!

    Source: Toyota

  • Toyota GT 86 Sedan [render]

    Theophiluschin published some renderings of Toyota GT 86 Sedan. The four-door version is allegedly close to production series. The four-door GT 86 will have a 100 mm extended wheelbase and could be exhibited at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show.

    We expect the same 2.0-liter boxer engine with 200HP (147 kW) and 205Nm (151 lb-ft) with fuel economy of 7.8 litres / 100km for manual models – and even better for automatic versions at just 7.1 litres / 100km.

    Probably, there will be an optional hybrid model derived from the Yaris Hybrid-R Concept boasting 272HP (200 kW) and a KERS system similar to this one used for F1 cars.

    Stay tuned!