Toyota: FT-1 News
#41
#42
Senior Moderator
More images that were not posted on Page 1...
Toyota, please make this.
Toyota, please make this.
Last edited by Yumcha; 01-13-2014 at 09:25 PM.
The following 2 users liked this post by Yumcha:
civicdrivr (01-14-2014),
JS + XES (01-13-2014)
#43
Senior Moderator
Press release...
Toyota virtually blew the doors off the North American International Auto Show with the reveal of the stunning FT-1 sports car concept. First devised by Calty Design Research in the Sony PlayStation Gran Turismo game environment, FT-1 leapt from the screen to the stage in a race-inspired press conference at COBO Hall.
The name says it all. FT-1 stands for “Future Toyota,” and the number “1” represents the ultimate. According to its designers at Calty Design Research, the FT-1 Concept is the ultimate expression of a Toyota coupe design, building upon Toyota’s rich sports coupe heritage dating back to the 2000GT, Celica, Supra, MR2 and most recently Scion FR-S. In addition, the concept draws inspiration from Calty’s more recent sports car concept work such as FT-HS (2007) and the Lexus LF-LC (2012).
The project started nearly two years ago and represents a labor of love by a passionate, dedicated and gifted Calty design team. “The FT-1 is a dream-project for a designer and car enthusiast like myself,” said Alex Shen, Calty’s Studio Chief Designer. “Our team was heavily influenced by Toyota’s sports car past, especially Celica and Supra, and we sought to capture some of that history. It is an aggressive, track-focused sports car concept with a presence that has been amplified for shock and awe.”
The FT-1’s audacious design represents the pinnacle of Calty’s 40th year of operation. Guided by the Toyota design ethos of Vibrant Clarity, a unique fusion of both emotional and rational factors that delivers a more exciting and dramatic design expression with unique Toyota identity, the concept is a spiritual pace car for Toyota Global Design. The goal of this ideological shift is to develop future generations of products that better connect emotionally with Toyota’s global consumer base.
Traditionally, Toyota’s design decisions have been driven by consensus among a large group of stakeholders. Under Akio Toyoda’s stated directive to invigorate Toyota products with energy, passion and “Waku-Doki” (translation: a palpable heart-pounding sense of excitement), the approval process has been streamlined. This new approach aims to produce cars that connect more deeply with customers, generating a more satisfying ownership experience that complements Toyota’s legendary reputation for quality, dependability and reliability.
“Function-sculpting” design language yields curved, muscular, expressive body forms seemingly shaped by the wind. Inlets, ducting, and vents are features of the exterior design that help reinforce its track–ready nature with elements of purposeful airflow management. At higher speeds a retractable rear wing deploys and tilts forward to create additional downforce. The body’s athleticism is expressed with taut surfaces and dramatic fender forms that seduce the eyes when covered in an unapologetically red hue.
The front engine rear-wheel drive configuration locates the cockpit far rearward within the wheelbase to improve weight distribution. This design element also helps create the classic sportscar proportions one would expect from a vehicle poised to dominate even the most challenging road course. The cockpit’s wraparound windshield and side glass openings are a distinct nod to the design of the legendary Toyota 2000GT.
The interior is a focused, highly functional “place of business” that locates the driver at the controls behind an F1 inspired steering-wheel. The intimate, low slung cockpit has its A-pillars set far back to help optimize cornering vision and sensation of the cabin’s intimacy. A delta-shaped display zone surrounds and integrates the driver to provide an exhilarating sense of being connected to the vehicle. The cockpit’s sense of minimalism adds to the purposefulness of the driver-focused environment with an emphasis on light weight components such as the composite seat covered with just the right amount of padding in only the areas that come into contact with the driver. A color heads-up display keeps the driver’s attention on the road ahead, with vital information projected just above the steering wheel within the driver’s line of sight.
While technical specifications do not accompany the concept, one can assume that the FT-1 represents an ideally balanced front-engine, rear wheel-drive layout that is powered by a high-technology, high performance internal combustion engine. Beneath a transparent glass hood, an ambiguous engine cover hides a powerplant left to the imagination of the onlooker.
In preparation for pitching the concept to Toyota management, Calty worked with Polyphony Digital, creators of the popular Gran Turismo driving simulator, to bring FT-1 to life in a virtual world that captured the excitement, passion and performance conveyed by the concept model. Toyota executives were offered the opportunity to take FT-1 for a timed lap around a computer-generated Fuji Speedway. Behind the wheel of the concept, Toyota president Akio Toyoda, an accomplished race car driver, completed the virtual circuit faster than his best real-world lap time at Fuji in his LFA. From that moment, he was convinced and the concept was approved to be built in model-form for the international auto show circuit.
For Toyota, this concept embodies the possibilities of the new and exciting design mission ahead. “Sports cars represent the ultimate driving expression in its purest form. As car enthusiasts ourselves, this is the kind of project we dream about working on,” said Calty Design Research president Kevin Hunter. “Beyond its obvious five-alarm visual impact, FT-1 is symbolic of a new chapter for Toyota Global Design. This provocative concept truly captures the passion, excitement, and energy of the Toyota we are evolving into and embodies elements of the emotion and performance that Toyota will imprint upon future production designs.”
The name says it all. FT-1 stands for “Future Toyota,” and the number “1” represents the ultimate. According to its designers at Calty Design Research, the FT-1 Concept is the ultimate expression of a Toyota coupe design, building upon Toyota’s rich sports coupe heritage dating back to the 2000GT, Celica, Supra, MR2 and most recently Scion FR-S. In addition, the concept draws inspiration from Calty’s more recent sports car concept work such as FT-HS (2007) and the Lexus LF-LC (2012).
The project started nearly two years ago and represents a labor of love by a passionate, dedicated and gifted Calty design team. “The FT-1 is a dream-project for a designer and car enthusiast like myself,” said Alex Shen, Calty’s Studio Chief Designer. “Our team was heavily influenced by Toyota’s sports car past, especially Celica and Supra, and we sought to capture some of that history. It is an aggressive, track-focused sports car concept with a presence that has been amplified for shock and awe.”
The FT-1’s audacious design represents the pinnacle of Calty’s 40th year of operation. Guided by the Toyota design ethos of Vibrant Clarity, a unique fusion of both emotional and rational factors that delivers a more exciting and dramatic design expression with unique Toyota identity, the concept is a spiritual pace car for Toyota Global Design. The goal of this ideological shift is to develop future generations of products that better connect emotionally with Toyota’s global consumer base.
Traditionally, Toyota’s design decisions have been driven by consensus among a large group of stakeholders. Under Akio Toyoda’s stated directive to invigorate Toyota products with energy, passion and “Waku-Doki” (translation: a palpable heart-pounding sense of excitement), the approval process has been streamlined. This new approach aims to produce cars that connect more deeply with customers, generating a more satisfying ownership experience that complements Toyota’s legendary reputation for quality, dependability and reliability.
“Function-sculpting” design language yields curved, muscular, expressive body forms seemingly shaped by the wind. Inlets, ducting, and vents are features of the exterior design that help reinforce its track–ready nature with elements of purposeful airflow management. At higher speeds a retractable rear wing deploys and tilts forward to create additional downforce. The body’s athleticism is expressed with taut surfaces and dramatic fender forms that seduce the eyes when covered in an unapologetically red hue.
The front engine rear-wheel drive configuration locates the cockpit far rearward within the wheelbase to improve weight distribution. This design element also helps create the classic sportscar proportions one would expect from a vehicle poised to dominate even the most challenging road course. The cockpit’s wraparound windshield and side glass openings are a distinct nod to the design of the legendary Toyota 2000GT.
The interior is a focused, highly functional “place of business” that locates the driver at the controls behind an F1 inspired steering-wheel. The intimate, low slung cockpit has its A-pillars set far back to help optimize cornering vision and sensation of the cabin’s intimacy. A delta-shaped display zone surrounds and integrates the driver to provide an exhilarating sense of being connected to the vehicle. The cockpit’s sense of minimalism adds to the purposefulness of the driver-focused environment with an emphasis on light weight components such as the composite seat covered with just the right amount of padding in only the areas that come into contact with the driver. A color heads-up display keeps the driver’s attention on the road ahead, with vital information projected just above the steering wheel within the driver’s line of sight.
While technical specifications do not accompany the concept, one can assume that the FT-1 represents an ideally balanced front-engine, rear wheel-drive layout that is powered by a high-technology, high performance internal combustion engine. Beneath a transparent glass hood, an ambiguous engine cover hides a powerplant left to the imagination of the onlooker.
In preparation for pitching the concept to Toyota management, Calty worked with Polyphony Digital, creators of the popular Gran Turismo driving simulator, to bring FT-1 to life in a virtual world that captured the excitement, passion and performance conveyed by the concept model. Toyota executives were offered the opportunity to take FT-1 for a timed lap around a computer-generated Fuji Speedway. Behind the wheel of the concept, Toyota president Akio Toyoda, an accomplished race car driver, completed the virtual circuit faster than his best real-world lap time at Fuji in his LFA. From that moment, he was convinced and the concept was approved to be built in model-form for the international auto show circuit.
For Toyota, this concept embodies the possibilities of the new and exciting design mission ahead. “Sports cars represent the ultimate driving expression in its purest form. As car enthusiasts ourselves, this is the kind of project we dream about working on,” said Calty Design Research president Kevin Hunter. “Beyond its obvious five-alarm visual impact, FT-1 is symbolic of a new chapter for Toyota Global Design. This provocative concept truly captures the passion, excitement, and energy of the Toyota we are evolving into and embodies elements of the emotion and performance that Toyota will imprint upon future production designs.”
#44
Whats up with RDX owners?
iTrader: (9)
God damn that thing is gorgeous. The rear reminds me of a TVR Sagaris, and that's not a bad thing.
The following users liked this post:
kurtatx (01-14-2014)
The following users liked this post:
mrmako (02-08-2014)
#49
Burning Brakes
If this is a Supra replacement, I'm hoping it will be closer in price range to a 370z rather than a GTR competitor. Perhaps somewhere between, i.e. standard Corvette priced, which is what the last Supra was priced at.
I assume this car will make it to production as Toyota is jointly developing a sports car platform w/ BMW and this would be a good car for that platform. Perhaps the new Supra and new BMW Z4 will share platforms - and maybe even BMW's turbocharged inline 6, which would also be a good match for Toyota's Supra heritage. BMW already makes hybrid turbo inline 6s so this would also fit into Toyota's model structure.
I assume this car will make it to production as Toyota is jointly developing a sports car platform w/ BMW and this would be a good car for that platform. Perhaps the new Supra and new BMW Z4 will share platforms - and maybe even BMW's turbocharged inline 6, which would also be a good match for Toyota's Supra heritage. BMW already makes hybrid turbo inline 6s so this would also fit into Toyota's model structure.
Last edited by AlterZgo; 01-14-2014 at 09:58 AM.
#50
Senior Moderator
it won't be priced close to the 370z because the 350/370z is a good step below the 300ZX. i.e. it's a different performance segment. IMO
The following users liked this post:
civicdrivr (01-14-2014)
#51
Burning Brakes
With that said, I would rather have a more refined and higher performing car than the 370Z. Even if the FT-1 or Supra comes in at Corvette prices, i.e. mid $50s to mid $60s, and has comparable performance to the Corvette as the last gen Supra had, it may be competitive.
I've been looking for a 4-5 seater sports car. The M3 is on my list, but too expensive at the $70K+ range. I note in one of the pictures there are rear seats in the FT-1. It may just meet my needs if the price is right.
#52
Team Owner
I think Nissan realized there's not much of a market for a corvette priced Z. Hence, they lowered the target. Toyota may come to a similar conclusion. They have demonstrated the ability to produce a mid $20K sports car. They have the capability of also producing a $40K sports car.
With that said, I would rather have a more refined and higher performing car than the 370Z. Even if the FT-1 or Supra comes in at Corvette prices, i.e. mid $50s to mid $60s, and has comparable performance to the Corvette as the last gen Supra had, it may be competitive.
I've been looking for a 4-5 seater sports car. The M3 is on my list, but too expensive at the $70K+ range. I note in one of the pictures there are rear seats in the FT-1. It may just meet my needs if the price is right.
With that said, I would rather have a more refined and higher performing car than the 370Z. Even if the FT-1 or Supra comes in at Corvette prices, i.e. mid $50s to mid $60s, and has comparable performance to the Corvette as the last gen Supra had, it may be competitive.
I've been looking for a 4-5 seater sports car. The M3 is on my list, but too expensive at the $70K+ range. I note in one of the pictures there are rear seats in the FT-1. It may just meet my needs if the price is right.
#53
Senior Moderator
a look at the tires alone on this concept will tell you that Toyota is looking at the higher end of performance with this car i.e. C7 type of level.
#54
I drive a Subata.
iTrader: (1)
God this is just drop dead gorgeous.
I have a feeling this is going to be a M3/GTR/C7 fighter.
I have a feeling this is going to be a M3/GTR/C7 fighter.
#55
Senior Moderator
#56
Moderator
#57
Senior Moderator
You mean this? http://www.carbuzz.com/news/2014/1/1...eturn-7718061/
#58
Burning Brakes
Unfortunately, base price for German cars are a joke. It's like the $63K base Porsche Boxster S C&D tested that ends up being $102.4K when optioned out.
The BMW M3 is not quite as bad, but options still are pricey. Expect to pay $70K+ for one with decent "options". Things like "destination/handling", bluetooth, nav, leather instead of their cheap ass "speed cloth" will elevate the price to $70K.
Yes. Believe it or not, the $61,550 base price for the F80 M3 does NOT include the $925 destination/handling fee so we are, right off the bat talking $62.5K base price.
E90/92 M3s were even worse because you also paid the gas guzzler tax on top of sales tax, etc.
The BMW M3 is not quite as bad, but options still are pricey. Expect to pay $70K+ for one with decent "options". Things like "destination/handling", bluetooth, nav, leather instead of their cheap ass "speed cloth" will elevate the price to $70K.
Yes. Believe it or not, the $61,550 base price for the F80 M3 does NOT include the $925 destination/handling fee so we are, right off the bat talking $62.5K base price.
E90/92 M3s were even worse because you also paid the gas guzzler tax on top of sales tax, etc.
The following 2 users liked this post by AlterZgo:
civicdrivr (01-14-2014),
ttribe (01-14-2014)
#59
Senior Moderator
Unfortunately, base price for German cars are a joke. It's like the $63K base Porsche Boxster S C&D tested that ends up being $102.4K when optioned out.
The BMW M3 is not quite as bad, but options still are pricey. Expect to pay $70K+ for one with decent "options". Things like "destination/handling", bluetooth, nav, leather instead of their cheap ass "speed cloth" will elevate the price to $70K.
Yes. Believe it or not, the $61,550 base price for the F80 M3 does NOT include the $925 destination/handling fee so we are, right off the bat talking $62.5K base price.
E90/92 M3s were even worse because you also paid the gas guzzler tax on top of sales tax, etc.
The BMW M3 is not quite as bad, but options still are pricey. Expect to pay $70K+ for one with decent "options". Things like "destination/handling", bluetooth, nav, leather instead of their cheap ass "speed cloth" will elevate the price to $70K.
Yes. Believe it or not, the $61,550 base price for the F80 M3 does NOT include the $925 destination/handling fee so we are, right off the bat talking $62.5K base price.
E90/92 M3s were even worse because you also paid the gas guzzler tax on top of sales tax, etc.
Maybe that's just the shallow snob in me?
The following 5 users liked this post by Black Tire:
civicdrivr (01-20-2014),
JS + XES (01-19-2014),
srika (02-06-2014),
ttribe (01-19-2014),
Yumcha (01-19-2014)
#61
Unfortunately, base price for German cars are a joke. It's like the $63K base Porsche Boxster S C&D tested that ends up being $102.4K when optioned out.
The BMW M3 is not quite as bad, but options still are pricey. Expect to pay $70K+ for one with decent "options". Things like "destination/handling", bluetooth, nav, leather instead of their cheap ass "speed cloth" will elevate the price to $70K.
Yes. Believe it or not, the $61,550 base price for the F80 M3 does NOT include the $925 destination/handling fee so we are, right off the bat talking $62.5K base price.
E90/92 M3s were even worse because you also paid the gas guzzler tax on top of sales tax, etc.
The BMW M3 is not quite as bad, but options still are pricey. Expect to pay $70K+ for one with decent "options". Things like "destination/handling", bluetooth, nav, leather instead of their cheap ass "speed cloth" will elevate the price to $70K.
Yes. Believe it or not, the $61,550 base price for the F80 M3 does NOT include the $925 destination/handling fee so we are, right off the bat talking $62.5K base price.
E90/92 M3s were even worse because you also paid the gas guzzler tax on top of sales tax, etc.
#62
Engineer
#63
Senior Moderator
Confirmed, the FT-1 will be at the Chicago Auto Show.... going Thursday and Friday!
The following users liked this post:
RPhilMan1 (02-05-2014)
#65
Fahrvergnügen'd
You mean this? http://www.carbuzz.com/news/2014/1/1...eturn-7718061/
Mazda, whatteryerdoing? Stahp.
#66
#67
If the Supra comes back, I can promise it will not be competing with the 370z in price.
#68
Senior Moderator
so hottttttttttt
The following 4 users liked this post by srika:
#70
I drive a Subata.
iTrader: (1)
#71
Team Owner
I love it how they put the fans right behind the bumper without any protection over it.
#72
Senior Moderator
Here's one in black...
#73
#74
Full disclosure I loved the looks of this car before I saw it in the flesh at the Detroit auto show and the first thing that went through my mind was that it actually looks better in person lol. Its such a 3d car with all the complex surfacing that it needs to be viewed in 3d . If this was the successor to the 458 italia it would be one of the best looking modern Ferraris. Toyota badly needs to bring this to market and call it the Supra .
I have a number of pictures of Acuras setup at the show including the TLX and want to upload them but do I really have to set up an account with flickr to do this? I have searched AZ and havent found a step by step on how to incorporate the pictures into a post.
I have a number of pictures of Acuras setup at the show including the TLX and want to upload them but do I really have to set up an account with flickr to do this? I have searched AZ and havent found a step by step on how to incorporate the pictures into a post.
#75
Some dude
Thread Starter
#76
Senior Moderator
speak of the devil....... some talk swirling today that it is indeed the next Supra...
http://www.motoring.com.au/news/spor...xt-supra-41509
Yeah Z06 is there. Honestly in person it's not as "wow" as those initial pix that were released. It's nice, but not a show-stopper (like the FT1 is). The Z06-spec changes compared with the regular C7 look subtle in person. IMO the first set of photos were processed in such a way to make the car look way better than it really does.
http://www.motoring.com.au/news/spor...xt-supra-41509
Yeah Z06 is there. Honestly in person it's not as "wow" as those initial pix that were released. It's nice, but not a show-stopper (like the FT1 is). The Z06-spec changes compared with the regular C7 look subtle in person. IMO the first set of photos were processed in such a way to make the car look way better than it really does.
#77
I drive a Subata.
iTrader: (1)
#78
Moderator
More Hi-res pics available here: http://www.desktopmachine.com/press/...a_F-1_Concept/
The following users liked this post:
JS + XES (02-07-2014)
#79
I drive a Subata.
iTrader: (1)
Ho Lee Fuk
#80
Someday, an RS6 Avant+
The toyota is really hot and the RX is