Toyota's Parade of Concept Vehicles at the Tokyo Motor Show
by EVANDER KLUM
The Toyota Hi-CT Concept is what usually happens when you cross a Mack truck and a brick. And although it seems like the Japanese automaker has misinterpreted the definition of truck with the Hi-CT but overall the contraption is rather amazing at its own right.
There is a rear ��deck�� placed instead of a conventional bed and the best bet it that it will not be far off from a paved road. Toyota the producer of Toyota catalytic converter has presented the Hi-CT showing the deck along with the removable trunk used to contain surfboards and bicycles but anything bulkier should be left at home. The design of the Hi-CT also shows that it can haul a limited amount of cargo and group of teens.
Although not that inclined to payload-carrying capability the Hi-CT��s selling point is its plug-in hybrid technology. It is also different from the conventional hybrid like the Toyota Prius which is a plug-in hybrid that can be charged via a household wall outlet that is aside from its internal combustion engine. And speaking of charging -- the system is complete with 100-vot AC accessory socket to play and charge all the gadgets.
The urban transporter can seat four under a glass roof. And if you look closely at the controls you will notice that they are somewhat inspired by a fighter jet. Similarly, the yoke-like controller housing two red buttons will make you want to push that button and launch those missiles. Unfortunately, there are no missiles to launch. Anyway, all the instrumentation, entertainment, and HVAC information is contained in a single panoramic display above the dash making it easier for the driver to operate them.
The Hi-CT is obviously not your conventional truck but its hip and environmentally friendly and also targets the young buyers. Come to think of it, the Hi-CT is more in line with the Scion xA and xB.
Toyota Crown Hybrid Concept Aside from the Hi-CT, Toyota will present a smorgasbord of eco-friendly and fuel efficient vehicles at the Tokyo Motor Show of which includes the ever-popular Toyota Crown which will be presented in a Hybrid Concept form. The Toyota Crown has been a big hit overseas.
The Crown was first introduced in the US in 1971 but unfortunately didn��t stay long but in Japan it has been available for over 50 years. The Crown possessed similar dimensions and appearance as that of the Lexus LS which is a rear-wheel-drive sedan and considered to be a prime example of Japanese luxury.
And since Toyota��s philosophy is for its vehicles to be available with gasoline-electric powertrain technology, the Crown would be given the hybrid treatment. It will also be equipped with THS II- Toyota Hybrid System II �Cwhich now includes a two stage motor speed reduction device that is designed to improve acceleration as well as increase fuel economy while lowering sound levels and emissions.
Toyota has lots of plan with the Crown of which includes changes on the drivetrain and many more. The Japanese automaker has also added a new thin-film transistor LCD called the ��Finegraphic Meter�� that creates a new information display that made easier for the driver to understand as compared to traditional units.
In terms of safety features, the Crown will have the VDIM or Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management which will incorporate active steering control aside from the vehicle��s existing traction and brake systems. And if you still think that the VDIM is not yet enough to keep you safe then how about 10 airbags? Feel safe already?
Sad as it may seem but the Crown will probably not be made available in the US. However, the Toyota Crown Hybrid Concept will definitely not stay a concept for long since its production is already scheduled next year for other markets.
