The Toyota FT-Me concept car could be developed for commercial production and become a direct rival to the Citroen Ami.
Toyota has unveiled the FT-Me Concept, signaling its intent to enter the mini electric car segment. This urban electric vehicle is expected to be developed into a production model and will compete directly with heavyweights such as the Citroen Ami, Fiat Topolino, and Mobilize Duo.
According to Toyota, the FT-Me concept blends “premium design with affordability”. Its exterior design is quite unique, drawing inspiration from fighter pilot helmets with a prominent front bumper and high-mounted LED lights. The car is finished with recycled materials, and Toyota aims to reduce carbon emissions by 90% compared to current urban vehicles.
With a length of under 2.5 meters, the FT-Me concept is significantly smaller than the Toyota Aygo X, by over 1.2 meters. To put it into perspective, the FT-Me would occupy just half of a standard parking space or a third when parked perpendicularly. Its small footprint, high maneuverability, and “360-degree visibility” make it ideal for urban use.
The cabin features a two-seat layout, with the passenger seat being removable to accommodate larger items. The rectangular steering wheel is designed to be accessible to wheelchair users and integrates hand controls for acceleration and braking without the need for pedals. The dashboard features a small screen that serves as a digital instrument cluster with advanced connectivity features.
The ultra-compact FT-Me consumes three times less energy per km than a conventional EV with a high-capacity battery. Its estimated range is around 100 km per charge, and it can extend its range by an additional 20-30 km thanks to the solar panels on its roof.
Toyota claims that the FT-Me’s range, when supplemented by solar energy, will meet daily urban usage requirements.
While the specifications of the electric powertrain have not been disclosed, Carscoops can make some assumptions based on the regulations for the L6e (light quadricycle) segment. These regulations mandate a speed limit of 45 km/h, a weight of no more than 425 kg, and allow teenagers from the age of 14 in some European countries to drive them legally. This means that the production version of the FT-Me could be classified as a quadricycle, similar to vehicles like the Citroen Ami, Opel Rocks-e, and Fiat Topolino.
TT (Tuoitrethudo)
Reference: Carscoops
Unveiling the Toyota FT-Me: A Sub-2.5-Meter, 2-Seater Electric Car with a Pedal-less Design
The solar panels on the Toyota FT-Me’s roof are designed to harness enough energy to power your daily commute without the need for charging.
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