Toyota FT-Me: This Two-Seater Electric City Car Has No Pedals – International Edition (English)

Toyota FT-Me: This Two-Seater Electric City Car Has No Pedals – International Edition (English)

Toyota's latest base-model electric car is especially well-suited for young individuals and those who use wheelchairs.

In addition to the C-HR+ and the improved bZ4X , Toyota is also presenting a new entry-level electric model: the FT-Me. However, the two-seater electric vehicle for the city is still in the design study stage, but it brings some very interesting ideas to the table.

The FT-Me has a length under 8 feet (2.50 meters) making it highly agile and simple to park. Toyota claims that it needs just half the parking area required for an average electric vehicle, and even less—only one-third—if positioned diagonally. Its geometric styling, featuring stark contrasts between black and white tones, reportedly draws inspiration from a jet helmet, essentially a motorbike helmet lacking the lower protective section found in full-face designs.

Toyota states that the FT-Me is perfect for those who recently obtained their driver’s license. In certain regions, this car can be operated starting at the age of 14 with the proper permit. The company guarantees excellent overall visibility, enhancing safety amid urban commotion and minimizing the chance of harm during parking and various movements.

Photo by: Toyota

The initial image of the inside reveals a square-shaped steering wheel along with a slot designed for inserting your smartphone.

The upcoming electric vehicle ought to boast robust software and connectivity features as well. Consider this: your smartphone serves as the car’s key and allows you to use multiple functionalities and services. Additionally, one standout characteristic of the FT-Me is its exclusive operation through the steering wheel using just your hands; notably, there aren’t any pedals involved here. Consequently, individuals who rely on wheelchairs could utilize this vehicle right out of the box without needing adjustments.

Photo by: Toyota

Simplified visual example: The vehicle doesn't have pedals; instead, the speed is likely adjusted using sliders located on the steering wheel.

Mainly recycled materials are utilized, which ought to decrease the CO2. 2 footprint by 90% compared to today's city vehicles. The electric drivetrain also consumes three times less energy per kilometer than a normal electric car. The solar panel integrated into the roof charges the vehicle with solar energy and provides an additional range of 20 to 30 kilometers (12 to 18 miles) per day. Depending on the weather and surroundings, this should even make charging at the socket completely unnecessary.

The FT-Me is targeted towards environmentally conscious individuals looking to reduce their driving, as well as younger drivers and those with physical disabilities, says Toyota. However, specific details about the vehicle’s propulsion system, battery capabilities, and operational range have not been disclosed yet by the company.

Photo by: Toyota

Toyota's Future in Electrification

Toyota has disclosed some details regarding its electric vehicle strategy as well. The company intends to launch six additional battery-electric models by the conclusion of 2026. Similar to the Urban Cruiser and the C-HR+, these new additions will feature more traditional names This means they will no longer adhere to the bZ naming convention.

Photo by: Toyota

Toyota Land Cruiser Se Concept (2023): A rugged SUV featuring an electric powertrain

It seems that a production version of the Land Cruiser Se Concept expected in 2023 might just happen. Should it remain faithful to its original idea, this well-known off-road SUV will receive a modern appearance alongside its electric powertrain. Toyota is concurrently working on solid-state batteries And various other renewable energy storage solutions.

More Toyota EV News

  • The Lexus RZ Has Become Much More Exciting with Its New 8-Speed Shifting and Yoke Steering
  • The Toyota C-HR+ Boasts Tesla-Competitive Range and Might Head to the United States
  • Toyota Announces an Upcoming Electric Truck Model
  • The Toyota bZ4X Has Significantly Improved. Here’s What’s Changed.
  • Upcoming Toyota Electric Vehicles Will Receive Recognizable Toyota Monikers
  • How Toyota Is Responding to the Surge of China’s Electric Vehicles

Source: Toyota Europe