Toyota launches 2 hybrid models GR HV and Tj Cruiser

Toyota will bring two new concept models to the Tokyo Motor Show, using hybrid engines including a GR HV sports coupe and a large crossover Tj Cruiser.

Toyota will bring two new concepts to the Tokyo Motor Show. The two hybrid concepts include a sports coupe and a large crossover. Japan's largest automaker showed off the GR HV Sport concept and the Tj Cruiser crossover concept in a news release announcing its plans for the auto show this month.

Toyota says both cars are purely concepts and have no plans for production.

The GR HV Sport concept takes design inspiration from the Toyota 86 and packs all of Toyota's racing technology inside.

The GR HV Sport concept takes a lot of cues from the Toyota 86 sports coupe it replaces, but with more curvaceous details. The main attraction is the LED light array, the hood vents and the single exhaust. It also gets a targa roof, a nod to pioneering models like the Toyota Sports 800 and Supra. Toyota says its matte black paint job is “aggressive.”

GR stands for Gazoo Racing, Toyota Motor Corp.’s global motorsport arm, while HV stands for hybrid, the division pioneered by the Prius. Under the hood, the GR HV Sport bears little resemblance to its hatchback cousin. Instead, the concept is powered by Toyota Hybrid System-Racing, the electric drivetrain technology used in the TS050 Toyota race car at Le Mans and the World Endurance Championship.

Toyota GR HV Sport with removable targa top

The GR HV Sport's battery is mounted close to the center of the car for improved handling. It also features the ability to switch between a six-speed manual and an automatic transmission, driving the rear wheels. The two seats are automatically adjusted via a display on the center console, for great racing potential.

The ignition control is located on top of the gearshift lever, like the machine gun in James Bond's car. Toyota says drivers can enjoy the performance of a true sports car, while feeling free thanks to the removable targa roof.

In practical terms, Toyota says it's exploring a new crossover genre with the Tj Cruiser, a unibody concept that combines the stature of a truck with the handling of an SUV.

With the Tj Cruiser concept, Toyota said the automaker is researching and developing a completely new type of crossover.

The “T” in the name stands for “toolbox,” appropriate for the size and shape of the concept, while the “j” stands for fun for adventure riders to different destinations. The name Cruiser, a traditional designation for SUVs, is an affirmation of the power of the Toyota Tj Cruiser.

The Japanese automaker added: "Designed for those who live a planned work-play lifestyle, the Tj Cruiser represents a new genre." The concept is also envisioned with a hybrid system combined with a 2.0-liter engine. It will operate on Toyota's next-generation TNGA modular platform.

On this model, the rear doors open like a truck. The front and rear passenger seats fold completely flat, the seats are equipped with tie-down points.

Both new Toyota hybrid concept models will be unveiled to the public at the Tokyo Motor Show from October 25.

According to Zing