EnviroCar

The world’s second largest carmaker is poised to show the FT-HS hybrid sports concept at the 2007 NAIAS, pairing a potent hybrid powertrain with essential sports car fundamentals.

Toyota’s expansive lineup has had a void in the sport car segment since the departure of the Supra, a car that was placed on a much-deserved pedestal by auto enthusiasts the world over. Speculation by automotive hacks is that the Toyota FT-HS concept may be the replacement.

The FT-HS is a front-engine, rear-drive sports car with a projected 0-62mph acceleration in the four-second range. A 3.5-liter V6 engine is coupled to Toyota’s parallel hybrid system (the same system used in the Prius and Lexus RX400h) to generate a claimed power output of approximately 400bhp. The system allows the FT-HS to boost performance while retaining green credentials sought by today’s buying public.

The two-plus-two layout of the show car employs an exposed cross-car architecture made from high-tech materials like carbon-fibre and titanium to keep weight down. The roof is made from carbon fibre Kevlar and features a distinctive scooped-out section, designed to reduce aerodynamic drag and provide head room above the driver and passenger. The roof also retracts to transform the FT-HS into a targa, but doing so forgoes use of the rear seats.

Toyota hopes this ‘21st century’ sports car’s eco-friendly benefits will appeal to an emerging buyer who grew up eco-conscious and sees technology as a necessity rather than a luxury.