- Toyota’s exciting concept car measures only 8 ft in length
- In some countries they will as young as 14 be able to run it
- Its solar tacks generate about 20 miles of range a day
Toyota revealed a selection of new models at an exclusive event in Brussels this week, covering everything from motorsport -inspired road cars to battery -powered SUVs. But look a little harder and you spy the diminishing silhouette of the FT-Micro Mobility Concept.
The target only 2.5 mi length (about 8ft), it is marginally greater than Citroen Ami, who has taken Europe by storm thanks to the low cost, small footprint that it offers to those living in busy urban areas.
Thanks to its small size, Toyota’s concept occupies only half a standard parking space, and in some cases it can park “nose” into the curb and take up the same kind of space as a few motorcycles.
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According to the Japanese marking, the styling is inspired by a jet helmet and the interior is packed for maximum space. There is space in there for two adults, but it can also swallow a wheelchair, with wheels removed and longer pieces of flat packing furniture thanks to a folded passenger seat.
Perhaps more interesting is the solar panel stake, as Toyota says, can add 20 to 30 km (13 to 18 miles) driving area per day. Day, even in cloudy city settings. This is enough to cover the most common commuters without the need to connect it.
There is no technical specification on official range or battery size, but the fact that its manufacturer claims it can be run by 14-year-olds in some markets suggests that it would fall below the square category category, which means it will be limited to 28 km / h, offers less than 6 kW power and weighs less than 450 kg.
A youthful movement
Missing any kind of flashy infotainment screens, FT-Me is designed for the smartphone generation, which seamlessly connects with mobile devices and smartphone apps, which can also act as a digital key.
In addition to this, the Toyota has designed the vehicle so that it can only be run with hand controls, not only the standard accelerator and brake pedals. This means that it can be operated by wheelchair users without the need for any change.
Alongside the fact that it doesn’t need a full license to run, Electrifying.com reports that it will have to compete with Netflix and mobile phone subscriptions in terms of monthly costs if it wishes to succeed.
This suggests it could cost as little as £ 30 / $ 40 / AU $ 60 a month for leasing, offering a cheap, trouble -free way to keep the younger generation mobile.
