Lexus Division. It is the combination of perfect imbalance, freeform geometrics and integrated component architecture. The results of these three elements is subtractive mass, a minimalist style not only lightweight, but also looks lightweight. " Toyota FT-HS Concept Debut at 2007 North American International Auto Show Torrance, Calif., Jan. 3 / PRNewswire / - The Toyota FT-HS hybrid sports concept will make its debut in 2007 North American International Auto Show. The pair potential of hybrid powertrain with essential sports car fundamentals, the FT-HS concept was a joint effort of Calty, Toyota's North American-based, research and design center located in Newport Beach, California, and Toyota's California-based Advanced Product Strategy Group . The design team was assigned the task of creating a mid-priced sports car that integrates ecology and emotion in a concept that addresses the question "What is a suitable sports car for the 21st Century?" "Drivers today are not satisfied with the car fast enough," said Kevin Hunter, vice president, Calty Design Research. "In addition to driving enjoyment, while the driver is concerned at the safety, ecology and social responsibility." 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 revolutionary acceleration and optimal performance. This 21st-century sports car fun-to-drive with eco-friendly benefits such as ultra-low emissions and fuel efficiency. FT-HS appeals to a buyer who appeared to grow eco-conscious and technology experience as a necessity, not a luxury. This two-plus-two concept is a front-engine, rear-drive sports car with a projected zero-to-60 acceleration in four seconds range. Powerful V6, 3.5L engine, coupled with 21st-century sports hybrid system with a target power output of about 400-horsepower. In the mid-priced market position, the FT-HS would be a true "exotic achieved" with 21st Century performance. FT-HS revealed the core values of Toyota Brand design strategy that combines two key elements: J-Factor and Vibrant Clarity. J-Factor refers to the local and global acceptance of Japanese-inspired design and cultural sensibilities. Vibrant Clarity is the design language used to express the J-factor much in the same way that L-language proficiency is the Lexus Division. It is the combination of perfect imbalance, freeform geometrics and integrated component architecture. The results of these three elements is subtractive mass, a minimalist style that is not only lightweight, but also looks lightweight. Exterior design was led by Calty designer, Alex Shen. From a design perspective, the theme of the FT-HS achieve sleek, taut surfaces in exterior features - especially in the doors and body style. The front and rear have been sculpted to remove mass around key functional components. Geometrics determines a unique form of integration of fluid surfaces contrasting hard-edge "Aero-Corners" which increases the air flow smoothly and reduce turbulence. The roof has a distinctive scooped-out section aerodynamically designed to reduce barriers and provide head room in key areas. Made from carbon fiber Kevlar, the roof is retractable so that the roof panel and back window pivot smoothly in a downward motion to keep in the back seat space. Triangle vehicle profile has a floating "C" pillar, aero corners, a full upper-body pan, and innovative open top. A hood features a scalloped channel, exposing the hybrid engine. Integrated component architecture can be seen in the aerospace-inspired lighting. The unit covers the entire rear tail lights, and an integrated retractable spoiler. Light-emitting diode (LED) clusters are located in the headlamps and the wing for energy efficiency and decreased heat loss. Other exterior features include speed-activated wing that elevates at high speed for additional stability and traction. Featuring a low-carbon fiber rear diffuser with integrated wide exhaust and carbon fiber wheels. The driver-oriented interior was created by Calty designer, William Chergosky and radiates sleekness, technology, and performance. Framework for a lean look is achieved with exposed cross-car architecture and high-tech materials like carbon fiber, and titanium. FT-HS 'interior features create a special driver's cockpit which include subtractive mass expressions such as cross-car instrument panel structure and delta wing driver pod. Delta-wing driver's pod integrates many useful functions within a lightweight structural unit. All important functions and details are presented almost exclusively to the driver. For example, touch-trace sensors which surround the driver and act as a guide for the touch of a finger controls when traveling at high speed. By eliminating the "B" pillar and creating a suspended "C" pillar, the minimalist style works with subtractive mass. Integrated instrument panel surrounds the driver, creating an enclosed pod effect. Arm chair flows seamlessly into the door and surrounding interior. Seating is optimized for a lightweight appearance and function: seating accommodates four and then coverts to a two-seater when the roof retracts. Passenger seat area is open with a simple open air pockets in the cross-car beam. A telescoping hub-less steering wheel incorporates semi-automatic paddle shifters and allows the meter will be shifted forward in order to shorten the driver's focus-time between the road and meter, and ultimately enhance driver focus. "FT-HS sports car changing experience not only with styling but also in function and performance," said Hunter. "The FT-HS is Toyota's answer to the question 'What is a suitable sports car for the 21st Century?" " Toyota FT-HS CONCEPT VEHICLE PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS DRIVE TRAIN 3.5 Liter V6 hybrid electric DIMENSIONS (inches) Overall Length: 170.27 Overall Width: 73.23 Overall Height: 50.79 Wheelbase: 104.33 Wheels: Carbon Fiber Tire Size: Front 245/35R21 Rear 285/30R21ormance
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