A MAJOR car brand has unveiled mind-boggling designs for “EVs of the future” including a space-age buggy which can be driven on Mars.
Japanese car giant Toyota has revealed designs for a new range of “concept” electric vehicles including a new foldable Land Hopper.
ToyotaToyota has revealed a design for a space mobility prototype buggy[/caption]
They also came up with a space mobility buggy-type vehicle experts say could climb 50cm-tall boulders and 25-degree slopes – conquering rough terrain such as on “the Red Planet” Mars.
Imagery of the mooted new models was provided at the Japan Mobility Show – although they remain theoretical for now, Autoblog reported.
Their other offerings included a JUU concept vehicle for wheelchair users, able to climb 16cm steps and with a retractable tail to prevent tipping over.
Meanwhile, the foldable Land Hopper – with wheels which raise and lower height – would not need a driver’s licence, it was suggested.
Toyota said of it: “A foldable design makes for easy storage even with limited car trunk space.
“When combined with a car, the Land Hopper expands the pleasures of travel, including touring around destinations.”
And of the “experimental” buggy, the firm suggested it was “aimed at creating mobility for use on the moon and in outer space”.
They described it as “electric-powered with outstanding driving performance, capable of navigating boulders up to 50cm tall and climbing steep 25-degree slopes”.
Toyota said: “Each wheel is fitted with its own motor and steering, as part of specifications being developed to provide safe, reliable driving even in rugged and unforgiving extraterrestrial environments.”
They also revealed designs for a new mid-size pick-up truck, the EPU, featuring not only a quiet engine but also “a low centre of gravity for superior handling stability and ride comfort”.
Toyota has recently teased a relaunch, prompting speculation about a new edition of its Camry model last updated in 2018.
The company’s chairman Akio Toyoda has also suggested its Celica sports car could make a comeback after two decades.
The potential developments come after a Toyota 2000GT coupe which appeared James Bond film You Only Live Twice recently sold for an eye-watering price.
Toyotas have been hailed by a mechanic as the quickest to service.
ToyotaThe Japanese motoring giant also revealed a new Land Hopper design[/caption]
ToyotaThe foldable bike is meant to be easier to store when travelling in cars[/caption]
ToyotaThe Japan Mobility Show was also shown the concept for a new EPU pick-up truck[/caption]
ToyotaToyota displayed designs for a new electric wheelchair called the JUU[/caption]