Toyota Group Highlights from the 36th Tokyo Motorshow
Ever since 2000, the Tokyo Motorshow has been split into two separate events, each held once every two years. One event is for passenger cars and vehicles for the general public while the other is for commercial vehicles. While enthusiasts may find commercial vehicles less exciting than passenger cars, there are nevertheless some interesting concepts and models.
WISH
This year, a prototype was also displayed which gives clues to a next-generation MPV from Toyota. The prototype is called the ‘Wish and although it was shown in ‘prototype’ form in Tokyo, it looks pretty much like a ready-to-produce model. It is know to be a rival to the Honda Stream which has enjoyed good response in many markets.
At this time, very few details are known but the two prototypes displayed had 1998 cc and 1794 cc engines. The overall length of the Wish is 4550 mm which is identical to the Stream while the width of 1695 mm for the Wish 1.8 is the same as the Stream, but the Wish 2.0 seems to be 50 mm wider (probably due to thicker exterior trim). In height, both MPVs are almost the same too. However, while the Wish has a 30 mm longer wheelbase (2750 mm), it is classified as a 6-seater whereas the Stream, which also has three rows of seats, is a 7-seater.
The Wish is known to be the basis of the International MPV project which Toyota is planning for Thailand, so it is a very important near-future model. Honda is already making the Stream in Indonesia and it seems like Toyota wants to challenge Honda head-on in this segment in ASEAN by making the Wish in Thailand.
Besides the Wish, there were 22 other concept models at the motorshow. The following are brief explanations for the more interesting ones:
FLAPPO
The Toyota Flappo is a small hybrid bus that combines a petrol engine, electric motor and a continuously-variable transmission (CVT) to realize high fuel efficiency, low emissions and quiet performance. Its ultra-low, non-step, wide full-flat floor provides easy entry and exit, making it ideal for community use.
DUTRO
The Dutro Hybrid, conceived by Toyota Group’s Hino unit, is a smartly styled, small refrigeration truck that features advanced systems, such as a newly developed diesel engine (combined with a diesel particulate filter, or DPF) with a new high-pressure common-rail fuel injection system, electronically-controlled cool-type exhaust gas recirculation and other features. It has an electric motor to achieve cleaner emissions and better fuel efficiency. An electric freezing system allows temperature control even when the vehicle is in idling-stop mode (in which the engine turns off while the vehicle is at rest in traffic).
ALSV
ALSV stands for “Active-Life Support Vehicle” and is meant for easy use by anyone and features a passenger-side “panoramic open door” (featuring a front swing-open door, a rear sliding door and a door-integrated centre pillar) for easy entry and exit. Both sides have an electrically operated sliding door, and the driver’s and all passenger seats swivel.
Driving pleasure is said to be enhanced by a new Friendmatic system with a sporty feel, made possible by integrating acceleration and braking controls into the steering wheel. The Friendmatic system is a special power steering system that reduces the required steering force and enables persons with lower limb impairments to drive using their hands alone.
This concept car places high priority on safety and the environment by way of advanced pedestrian safety features, J-ULEV emission levels, the use of bio-plastics and enhanced recyclability.
