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2010 Detroit Auto Show: Toyota FT-CH Compact Hybrid Concept

 
4 2,371 views Jan 11, 2010
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Toyota FT-CH hybrid concept car, 2010 Detroit Auto Show

HI-RES GALLERY: Toyota FT-CH hybrid concept car, 2010 Detroit Auto Show

The new Prius has only been out for a few months, but already Toyota is previewing concepts of what looks like another body style for the Prius platform. That could make the new Toyota FT-CH Compact Hybrid Concept the car that brings all those "Prius brand" rumors to life.

In fact, Toyota Motor Sales president Jim Lentz confirmed that the company plans to spin the Prius label off into its own brand.  Foreshadowing a time when a range of Prius-like vehicles will be available in more than the current sedan/hatch body style. In fact, the FT-CH looks a lot like an evolved version of the Hybrid X Concept from several years ago. The FT-CH is a compact, however--22-inches shorter than the current mid-size (as defined by Toyota) Prius.

The FT-CH's decidedly more hatch-like layout could draw a younger crowd, while its more accessible rear cargo area could make the car even more practical as a daily driver. No performance or efficiency figures for the concept, nor drivetrain details, have been released so far.

For the full info and implications of this latest Toyota hybrid concept, check out John Voelcker's coverage over at GreenCarReports.





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Comments (4)

  1. By seren Posted: 1/11/2010 6:25pm PST

    It looks EXACTLY like a Honda FIT ! I cant tell the difference if they were side by side :(
     
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  2. By  Casey Verdant Posted: 1/11/2010 6:53pm PST

    Great news from the Detroit Auto Show! Toyota’s cheaper hybrid can’t come soon enough! The Toyota FT-CH is a great addition to the Prius family: smaller, more efficient, and cheaper!
    If you’re interested in fuel cells, hybrid cars, or any other green technologies, check out http://www.greencollareconomy.com. It has hundreds of case studies on emerging green tech and the largest b2b green directory on the web.
     
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  3. By  psp accessories Posted: 1/11/2010 7:24pm PST

    This is a concept as evidenced by the lack of visible turn signal lights, unless they are hiding under the black plastic somewhere... It looks like they still have some work to do on the interior design. I like the design, it would make a nice EV commuter.
     
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  4. fb_100000275684479 avatar Michael Escobar Posted: 1/12/2010 7:07pm PST

    Quite ugly up front, looks like the original Honda Insight from the back. If they got the styling and price right, I would consider a compact hybrid as an "around town" car simply to get a free pass in the HOV lanes.
     
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