This year's hybrid technologies are based on new concepts that address today's most pressing automotive needs: developing cars that are "good for the environment," "good for people," and "good to drive." Booths give a glimpse into the "eco" orientation of the future.
The themes are "ECO & EMOTION." The Toyota group has a large exhibit that occupies roughly half of the East Hall, and it brought a total of 33 cars to display.
Twelve of the cars (10 models) are reference exhibits, including an F-1 racing car; 21 are passenger cars on the market or scheduled for launch. In the middle of the booth is a specially constructed stage done in a silver-metallic theme and resembling a stadium. Every 45 minutes it runs a crowd-pleasing presentation called "Eco X Emotion," and the viewing area is consistently packed. Toyota introduces four concept cars during the show: "Fine-N," "CS&S," "SU-HV1" and "PM."
The "eco" models are particularly popular for the high levels of technology they embody. "Fine-N" is the ultimate in fuel cell hybrids. It brings a thin fuel cell unit using difficult-to-handle hydrogen energy into the hybrid system and also achieves independent control of the four wheels with individual motors internally being installed. The result is a significant gain in stability and extremely responsive cornering.
"CS&S" has "THSII," the next generation of electric motor/gasoline engine hybrid system, installed in the rear. This is combined with "E-Four" (electric 4WD) to create a sporty new model that is fun to drive as well as being good for the environment.
"SU-HV1" is an SUV with some of the lowest emissions in the world. It features a newly designed SUV hybrid system and electric 4WD. Its fuel economy is on par with compact-class cars, twice more than base vehicles.
"Personal Mobility (PM)" a Hit
Among the most enthusiastically received models during the Toyota demonstration is the "PM," a cute one-seater that changes its shape and coloring. "PM" stands for "Personal Mobility." It may be better described as a "mobile suit" than a car as we know it. The driver sits under a "canopy" and controls the vehicle with hand and leg movements. During low-speed operation the cabin is upright, but as speed increases it gradually reclines to gain better aerodynamics. Meanwhile, the wheel base also extends to improve straightdriving performance.
The key design concepts for the car were "meeting, linking and gathering." It uses advanced information technology to "integrate people and cars" and "promote interaction between cars." The "PM" represents a completely new idea for mobile society.
"Lexus" gets its first independent exhibition space
Among the study models for potential launch at the Toyota booth is the "Crown Concept," its next generation in luxury sedans. This year also sees the first independent exhibition space for Lexus. On hand are the "LF-S," the Lexus brand's premium sedan, and the "LF-X," its new SUV. Both are scheduled to hit domestic Lexus dealerships in 2005 and are already generating considerable interest. |
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| The "PM" stage demonstration wows crowds. |
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| The "LF-S," a new Lexus model scheduled for launch in Japan. |
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| "Fine-N" |
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| The wire frame body for the "Fine-N" |
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| Next generation of hybrid technology on display. |
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| The new independent Lexus corner is part of the large Toyota exhibit in the East Hall. |
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