Toyota FT-CH (compact hybrid) concept, Detroit 2010 - cheaper, better MPG than Prius

[NeilBlanchard]

Here's the link to Edmunds:

Toyota FT-CH Debuts at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show







I like the looks of this car!

[MetroMPG]

Some specs on the concept, from Detroit 2010: Toyota FT-CH Concept Previews Compact Prius Model : Auto News

The FT-CH is lighter in weight and more fuel efficient than the Prius.

The concept is designed to target a lower price point than the Prius, thus appealing to a younger, less-affluent buyer demographic.

Compared to Prius, it is 22 inches shorter in overall length, yet
loses less than an inch in overall width.

I read elsewhere (can't find it now) that the target price would be ~$15k, with a combined EPA rating of 60 mpg (US).

If Toyota made this, I think it might become their first real "hit" in Canada, where the Prius sales have never really taken off (to the extent they have in the US). Partly because of price (Prius starts at ~$27k CAD), and partly because the Canadian market has long preferred compacts.

[NeilBlanchard]

Yes, the important details are missing (so far): how much does it weigh, and what kind of hybrid is it; serial, parallel, and specifics about the battery pack size, electric range, etc.

We will see details soon -- Micki Maynard Tweets about the front grill being for fresh air in the cabin.
http://tweetphoto.com/8515362

[MetroMPG]

Just noticed how reminiscent it is of the VW UP! Lite, except 4 doors vs. 2. No?

http://ecomodder.com/forum/showthrea...-us-11257.html

[NeilBlanchard]

Yes, there is a strong resemblance! Here's a high rez gallery at ABG:

Autoblog Green

It looks like the the rear passenger doors might be suicide (they lack a visible handle).

The one visual thing I could do without, is the "pincers" look of the headlights and the hood:


In addition to the front cabin air intakes, it appears to have rear exhaust grills!

The geometric sunroof is ... different. Maybe it will make sense, if it adds to the structure, but lets the inside be "airier"?

I also really like the mesh seats -- they make more room in the inside, and I'm sure they are cooler in the summer.

[MetroMPG]

Of course, many (most) of the "out there" styling details would never make it to production, if that's where this vehicle is ultimately headed.

FYI, I've read in several places that it's a "conventional" hybrid. No radical departure from Toyota's current parallel Hybrid Synergy Drive.

Source: Toyota's FT-CH hybrid concept vehicle would beat Prius on fuel efficiency, price - AnnArbor.com

[NeilBlanchard]

The underside looks darn smooth:


And here's some interior shots:

[cfg83]

Neil -

Yeah, it's gorgeous! The rear reminds me of the Honda CRZ, because the rear wheels bulge out.

But, as with all Toyota hybrids, no stickshift, no deal.

CarloSW2

[cfg83]

Neil -

Originally Posted by NeilBlanchard

Yes, there is a strong resemblance! Here's a high rez gallery at ABG:

Autoblog Green

It looks like the the rear passenger doors might be suicide (they lack a visible handle).

The one visual thing I could do without, is the "pincers" look of the headlights and the hood:

...

In addition to the front cabin air intakes, it appears to have rear exhaust grills!

The geometric sunroof is ... different. Maybe it will make sense, if it adds to the structure, but lets the inside be "airier"?

I also really like the mesh seats -- they make more room in the inside, and I'm sure they are cooler in the summer.

In the first and third picture of the original post you can see a handle integrated into the black rear (door?) pillar :



I think this is similar to the Honda European Civic :



CarloSW2

[MetroMPG]

Originally Posted by NeilBlanchard

The underside looks darn smooth:

I noticed that too.

Probably because it has no exhaust system (check the rear views). Or drivetrain.