Toyota created quite a buzz with its sneak peek at an electric sports-car concept just last week, and the excitement only intensified as the FT-Se was unveiled in all its glory at the Tokyo auto show. While concrete plans for production remain unconfirmed, the striking details and sleek design certainly hint at its readiness for the assembly line.
Although Toyota has kept the technical specifics under wraps, the simultaneous unveiling of the FT-Se and the FT-3e crossover concept underscores the versatility of the company’s forthcoming EV platform. Toyota has gone on record to confirm that both vehicles will share key components, promising an intriguing future for their electric lineup.
Toyota’s commitment to a novel ultra-compact battery architecture, featuring cells less than 100 mm in height, becomes apparent when observing the FT-Se’s streamlined and aerodynamic profile. This design appears tailor-made to house these compact power sources efficiently.
In a nod to the past, the FT-Se harkens back to Toyota’s tradition of lightweight sports cars, reminiscent of the beloved MR2 from the 1980s to the early 2000s. While precise dimensions remain undisclosed, the vehicle’s low stance and broad visual appeal, with wheels positioned at the extreme corners of its frame, are striking features.
Certainly, the prominent front bumper integrates substantial apertures, characteristic of an electric vehicle, while the rear spoiler boasts full-width strakes reminiscent of the iconic Ferrari 512’s rear grilles. Undeniably, the FT-Se seamlessly aligns with Toyota’s array of high-performance models.
Aligned with the visionary concept of “three brothers” by former Toyota executive Akio Toyoda, the FT-Se stands out as a promising contender for the third position within this prestigious group, effectively joining the esteemed league of the Supra and GR86 to form a powerful triumvirate. Significantly, the GR branding, emblematic of Toyota’s renowned Gazoo Racing performance division, further emphasizes its dynamic and sporty character.
In anticipation of spirited driving, Toyota promises a new, lower instrument panel and knee pads to protect drivers from the intense g-forces. Interestingly, Toyota had previously revealed the development of an EV sports car prototype featuring a virtual stick shift, and the production version of the GT-Se seems poised to debut this innovative feature.
