Forget the congestion charge, petrol taxes and global warming – motoring in the future can still be fun according to Toyota with its FT-HS hybrid sports concept being shown at the 2007 North American International Auto Show.

Pairing a potent hybrid powertrain with essential sports car fundamentals, the FT-HS concept was a joint undertaking of CALTY, Toyota’s North American-based, research and design centre located in Newport Beach, California, and Toyota’s California-based Advanced Product Strategy Group.  The design team was assigned the task of creating a mid-priced sports car that integrates ecology and emotion in a concept that addresses the question, “What is a suitable sports car for the 21st Century?”.

“Drivers today are not satisfied with cars that are simply fast,” said Kevin Hunter, vice president, CALTY Design Research.  “In addition to driving enjoyment, today’s drivers are concerned about safety, ecology and social responsibility.”

The FT-HS incorporates hybrid capability while maintaining sports car essentials, such as a sleek profile, lightweight aerodynamic materials, and an advanced high-output powertrain for revolutionary acceleration and optimal performance.  This 21^st century sports car is fun-to-drive with eco-friendly benefits such as ultra-low emissions and fuel efficiency.  The FT-HS appeals to an emerging buyer who grew up eco-conscious and perceives technology as a necessity, not a luxury.

This two-plus-two concept is a front-engine, rear-drive sports car with a projected 0-62mph acceleration in the four-second range.  A powerful V6, 3.5L-engine is coupled with a 21^st century sports hybrid system with a target power output of approximately 400-horsepower.  At a mid-priced market position, FT-HS would be a true “attainable exotic” with 21^st Century performance.

“FT-HS redefines the sports car experience not only with styling but also in function and performance,” said Hunter. “The FT-HS is Toyota’s answer to the question ‘What is a suitable sports car for the 21^st Century?’”