FYI: Toyota Signals Ambitious EV Sports Car Plans with FT:Se Concept
One of the standout electric car concepts revealed by Toyota towards the end of 2021 was the FT:Se, a two-seater with compact dimensions and a mid-engined-like design that harkened back to the iconic MR2. While Toyota initially remained tight-lipped about the possibility of bringing this concept to production, fast forward a few years, and the automaker has not only updated the concept but also teased that it might soon be available for purchase.
Release Timeline Hints
In a recent discussion with Hideaki Iida, GR Design Group project manager for Toyota and the brain behind the FT:Se Concept, he revealed, “We’re going to release the Lexus model in 2026 and this one afterward,” referring to the production version of the Lexus LF-ZC, which shares a relationship with the GR electric sports car.
Closer to Reality
The updated FT:Se concept, while yet to be officially confirmed for production, looks more refined and closer to a production model than its original iteration. Modifications include different lights, redesigned air intakes, door-mounted rearview mirrors, and physical door handles. Although the futuristic interior with a yoke-style steering wheel may not fully make it to production, the essence of the vehicle indicates strong potential for a production-ready model.
Interestingly, the FT:Se bears GR badges instead of the traditional Toyota crests, suggesting Toyota might introduce GR as a standalone performance sub-brand. This would be akin to how Seat transitioned its Cupra performance models into a separate brand.
Design Evolution
Considering the current design appears almost production-ready, significant changes are unlikely. Adjustments might include enlarging the side mirrors and tweaking the shape of the light clusters and bumpers. This represents a considerable evolution from the initial 2021 concept. The 2023 version even sports wheels that look production-ready.
In terms of size, the FT:Se measures 172.4 inches in length, 74.5 inches in width, and 48 inches tall, making it comparable to the Lotus Emira. Despite its compact dimensions, it promises a surprisingly spacious interior.
Distinct Identity
The FT:Se’s design language is starkly different from other Toyota models, including the GR Supra. This divergence indicates that the FT:Se is likely to establish GR as a unique visual brand identity. According to Hideaki Iida, the design’s uniqueness stems from an "aero-first" approach, focusing on aerodynamics before sketches—a technique rarely used in car design.
Toyota also revealed images of two FT:Se versions: a regular road model and a more aggressive track-focused variant with a prominent rear wing to enhance high-speed cornering stability.
Innovative Interior
One of the FT:Se’s standout interior features is its futuristic yoke-like steering wheel, flanked by two small portrait screens. This unusual setup could allow drivers to adjust settings without taking their hands off the wheel.
For the yoke-style steering wheel to work in a production car, Toyota might employ a variable progressive steering rack or an evolution of the steer-by-wire system used in the bZ4X and Lexus RZ electric crossover. The driver can manage various settings, including temperature and fan speed, via the on-wheel screens. Another screen serves as a digital gauge cluster, providing speed and navigation information.
Toyota is also considering introducing simulated gears to enhance driver involvement in their sporty EVs. This could involve a physical stick shifter or paddles on the steering wheel to adjust regeneration levels.
Performance Specs
The FT:Se boasts a dual-motor setup, making it all-wheel drive but with a rear bias for a mid-engined sports car feel. It’s capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in under 3 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. Estimates suggest it could produce around 450 horsepower.
The powertrain will likely incorporate Toyota’s new performance prismatic cells developed with Panasonic, targeting a debut in 2026. These cells offer better power density, range, and charging capability, with potential for an 80% charge in just 20 minutes and a driving range of up to 350 miles.
Future Competitors
Set to potentially hit the market after 2026, the FT:Se will face competition from the electric Porsche 718 Cayman, Polestar 6, and the production version of the Caterham Project V. Toyota’s strategic marketing and naming will be crucial for its market success. Although unlikely to revive the MR2 nameplate, the car will undoubtedly draw comparisons to the classic mid-engined sports car.
Conclusion
While the exact release date remains unconfirmed, Toyota’s increasing hints and refined designs suggest that the FT:Se is on its way to becoming a reality. With an estimated starting price of $60,000, it aims to undercut key competitors, offering a blend of performance, innovation, and nostalgic charm.
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William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
