Toyota hybrid concept car unveiled
* Hybrid two-seat roadster * Has four-wheel drive * Combined power of 295bhp...
Toyota has unveiled a concept car that could be the basis for a future hybrid sports car.
The concept car is a development of the GRMN Sports Hybrid that was shown at the Tokyo motor show in January 2010. That car featured MR2-based bodywork, but the latest concept vehicle has a bespoke design that hints at how a future model could look.
Under the skin theres an updated version of the original model's four-wheel-drive hybrid drivetrain. A V6 petrol engine powers the rear wheels, while an electric motor sends power to the front wheels. Combined power output is 295bhp. With a weight of around 1500kg, wed expect that to translate to strong performance.
The GRMN Sports Hybrid Concept II has been developed by Gazoo Racing, a Japanese motorsport group, with Toyotas backing. The 'MN' part of the name stands for 'Meister of Nurburgring', in reference to Hiromu Naruse, a Toyota test driver and chief of the Gazoo Racing team.
Toyota says there are no current plans to put the model into production, but the concept car will be shown at various motor shows and events over the next few months to gauge press and public reaction to the car. It will be on display at the Goodwood Festival of Speed from June 30 to July 3.
Its unclear as yet where the new model would fit within the Toyota range. The FT-86 sports car is due to go on sale in 2012 and a hybrid version of this is also a possibility. A decision is expected at the end of the year.
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