In addition to the C-HR+ and the improved bZ4X, Toyota is also presenting a new entry-level electric model: the FT-Me. However, the two-seater electric vehicle for the city is still in the design study stage, but it brings some very interesting ideas to the table.
With a length of less than 8 feet (2.50 meters), the FT-Me is very maneuverable and easy to park. According to Toyota, it requires only half the parking space of a conventional electric car, and only a third when parked crosswise. The angular, black-and-white design is said to be inspired by a jet helmet, i.e. a motorcycle helmet without the chin guard of full-face helmets.
According to Toyota, the FT-Me is ideal for people who have not had their driver’s license for long. With the appropriate driving license, the vehicle can be driven from the age of 14 in some markets. The manufacturer promises good all-round visibility, which increases safety in the hustle and bustle of the city and reduces the risk of damage when parking and other maneuvers.
Photo by: Toyota
The first picture of the interior shows a rectangular steering wheel and a channel for placing the smartphone
The new EV should also have good software and connectivity options. For example, your smartphone replaces the vehicle key and provides access to various functions and services. Another special feature: the FT-Me is controlled and operated exclusively by hand via the steering wheel, and there are apparently no pedals. This means that the vehicle can be used by wheelchair users without any modifications.
Photo by: Toyota
Lightened proof image: There are actually no pedals, the speed is probably controlled via sliders on the steering wheel
Predominantly recycled materials are used, which should reduce the CO2 footprint by 90% compared to today’s city vehicles. The electric drivetrain also consumes three times less energy per kilometer than a normal electric car. The solar panel integrated into the roof charges the vehicle with solar energy and provides an additional range of 20 to 30 kilometers (12 to 18 miles) per day. Depending on the weather and surroundings, this should even make charging at the socket completely unnecessary.
In addition to younger drivers and people with physical disabilities, the FT-Me is also aimed at people who want to drive less for environmental reasons, according to Toyota. The automaker is not yet revealing the technical data of the drive and battery or the range.
Photo by: Toyota
The electric future of Toyota
Toyota also revealed a few things about its electric car plans. Toyota plans to introduce six new battery-electric models by the end of 2026. Like the Urban Cruiser and the C-HR+, these will have more traditional names, meaning they will no longer fit into the bZ nomenclature.
Photo by: Toyota
Toyota Land Cruiser Se Concept (2023): An off-roader with electric drive
Apparently, a production version of the Land Cruiser Se Concept presented in 2023 is in the cards. If it’s true to the concept, this familiar off-road SUV gets a futuristic form to go with its electric drivetrain. Toyota is also working on solid-state batteries and other new energy storage systems.
