Let’s be honest, no kid dreams of hanging a poster of an electric crossover on their bedroom wall. However, a hot-looking electric sports car could be a different story. The recent debut of the Toyota FT-Se Concept at the Japan Mobility Show has sparked excitement, and there’s reason to believe that this dream car might not remain a mere fantasy for long.
Hideaki Iida, the project manager for the GR (Gazoo Racing) Design Group and the mind behind the FT-Se Concept, shared some intriguing details in an interview at the auto show. Notably, the FT-Se shares the same battery pack as the confirmed-for-production Lexus LF-ZC. While Toyota hasn’t officially announced whether the FT-Se will become a reality, Iida’s words were quite convincing.
“We’re going to release the Lexus model in 2026 and this one afterward,” Iida stated. “We can’t guarantee the year itself, but as soon as possible. After 2026 is what I can tell you.”
This declaration is the most substantial confirmation from anyone at Toyota that the FT-Se could transition from concept to production. The evidence seems to support this exciting prospect. First, the FT-Se concept appears more polished, both inside and out, compared to many other Toyota concepts showcased at the auto show. The attention to detail in its design suggests that it may not merely be a whimsical idea.
Moreover, Iida emphasized that the FT-Se represents a new design language, distinct from traditional Toyota models. While he didn’t draw direct connections to the MR2 or Supra, the unique design seems tailored to stand on its own. Considering Iida’s collaboration with Toyota’s GR performance division and their plans for a standalone EV, the FT-Se could be the realization of this vision.
Furthermore, discussions with other Toyota representatives at the show hinted at the FT-Se eventually incorporating the company’s planned simulated “manual” gearbox for EVs, expected around 2026. Toyota is keen on preserving the tactile experience and control offered by manual transmissions in an electric vehicle. While the FT-Se’s interior didn’t feature such a setup, a production version could potentially include it.
When questioned about the production car’s power rating, weight target, or price, Iida remained tight-lipped. However, he did mention that the car is envisioned to compete with the Porsche Boxster and Cayman, both of which are also anticipated to transition to all-electric models in the near future.
While it’s advisable to await official confirmation, numerous signs point to Toyota’s genuine intent to bring the FT-Se to life. The world of electric vehicles is gradually encroaching on the pure sports car segment, and the FT-Se could be at the forefront of this transformation.
