autocar-logo
Delhi

Toyota unveils FT-1 sports car concept at Detroit Motor Show

Toyota FT-1 concept revealed at Detroit; features a Formula 1-inspired steering wheel and a colour heads-up display.
1 min read16 Jan '14
Staff WriterStaff Writer
4K+ views

Toyota describes FT-1 as "a true enthusiast's track car in the lineage of the 2000GT and Supra"

The FT-1 was conceived at Toyota's Calty design research centre in California

Toyota has unveiled a new sportscar concept at the Detroit motor show called the FT-1 which is inspired by past classic Toyotas such as the Supra. The vehicle marks the start in the new chapter of Toyota design philosophy.

The car is described by the company as "a true enthusiast's track car in the lineage of the 2000GT and Supra". The name FT-1 stands for 'Future Toyota', with the number one representing "the ultimate world-class sports car with the ultimate performance envelope".

Company sources confirmed that it has a combustion engine only, with no hybrid system.

The Toyota FT-1's front engine/rear-wheel drive configuration allows the cockpit to sit further towards the rear of the car, within the wheelbase, helping to improve weight distribution and creating classic sports car proportions. The wraparound windscreen and side glass arrangement are a clear nod to the design of the original 2000GT.

The cockpit is described as a "delta-shaped display zone. This helps to make the driver feel at the heart of the action, fully connected to the car". It features a Formula 1-inspired steering wheel and a colour head-up display that projects key information just above the wheel.

The FT-1 was conceived at Toyota's Calty design research centre in California. Calty president Kevin Hunter said the philosophy behind the car marked a radical change in the way Toyota's products are designed. "Beyond its obvious visual impact, FT-1 is symbolic of a new chapter for Toyota global design. This concept truly captures the passion, excitement and energy of the Toyota we are evolving into. It embodies elements of the emotion and performance that we will imprint upon future production designs."

Jeep to delay India launch

Poor economic growth and sluggish demand for cars in India cited as reasons for a possible delay in re-launch launch of Jeep brand in India.
1 min read16 Jan '14
Staff WriterStaff Writer

Jeep could delay plans to launch its cars in India

Jeep had earlier prepared three models for launch in 2013

Jaguar C-X17 SUV concept showcased at Brussels Motor Show

Jaguar’s C-X17 SUV concept is based on a new platform from the carmaker.
1 min read16 Jan '14
Staff WriterStaff Writer

Jaguar is showcasing the C-X17 concept at many global motor shows.

Audi A3 sedan coming to Auto Expo 2014

Audi’s Auto Expo 2014 display to include Audi A3, RS7 and Le Mans-winning R18 e-tron Quattro.
2 min read16 Jan '14
Staff WriterStaff Writer

The new Audi A3 sedan will slot under the Audi A4 in India.

The Audi SQ5 TDI does a 0-100kph sprint in 5.1 seconds.

The R18 e-tron Quattro will be showcased at the Auto Expo 2014.

Datsun India to start sales in March

Datsun to sell models via Nissan outlets starting March 2014; will showcase three offerings at Auto Expo 2014.
1 min read16 Jan '14
Staff WriterStaff Writer

The Datsun Go will be one of two Datsun models in India to go on sale initially.

Audi mulling expansion of Q SUV range

Audi is considering new Q models including an entry-level Q1 and crossovers that combine MPV and SUV traits.
1 min read16 Jan '14
Staff WriterStaff Writer

New Audi Q1 SUV will spearhead the Audi Q SUV range expansion.