CAR GARAGE | 2012 Toyota FT-Bh Concept | The new concept's design is driven by five key pillars targeting optimum fuel efficiency and minimized emissions: Mass Reduction; Driving Resistance in the form of aerodynamics and tire rolling resistance; Power-train Efficiency: Thermal Management and Energy Saving Electricity. Making its World Premiere at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, the Toyota FT-Bh concept is an ultra-light, sub-800 kg, full hybrid vehicle designed to lower fuel consumption and emissions for an affordable minimize B-segment family car. It is 3.985 mm long, 1.695 mm wide and 1.400 mm high, with a long wheelbase of 2.570 mm.
Moreover, the goals of light weight vehicle, a low center of gravity and maximum power-train efficiency are beneficial not only in terms of low fuel consumption and emissions, but also in offering a more responsive, agile and Engaging driving experience. Fabricated in a combination of high-tensile steel, aluminum and magnesium, the Toyota FT-Bh concept targets an overall mass reduction of some 25% over the 1.030 kg of 1.0 liter Yaris, Bringing its total weight down to just 786 kg. Conversely, the FT-Bh's full hybrid power-train adds some 60 kg in weight to the concept. With a body-in-white mass reduction of 20-25%, the key to Achieving a total mass reduction of over 30% is a reduction in the weight of interior parts and trim by approximately 50%.
Measures to save fuel by reducing the road load of the Toyota FT-Bh concept are focused on aerodynamics and a tire rolling resistance coefficient reduction. Minimization of the aerodynamic coefficient of drag and the vehicle's particularly small frontal area target a resistance reduction of 25%. And the use of low rolling resistance tires accounts for a significant improvement in fuel efficiency.
The fuel tank provides a further example: if fuel efficiency improves, the fuel tank can be downsized. Aerodynamic drag is reduced, leading to an additional improvement in fuel efficiency. The Toyota FT-Bh's full hybrid drive system is a masterpiece of power-train downsizing. The lightweight, 2-cylinder, 1.0 liter Atkinson cycle petrol engine combines high efficiency with a low thermal capacity. A combination of light weight and hybrid power vehicle FT-Bh offers drivers a return to the fundamental pleasures of city driving.
The Toyota FT-Bh targets improvements in the recovery of thermal energy and a 50% reduction in electricity consumption. Using the twin strategies of a reduction in demand for heat and a reduction in heat loss, further stringent measures are applied within the interior. The FT-Bh cabin uses lighter components have a smaller thermal That capacity or a high degree of thermal insulation.
