Toyota hints at a Supra successor with a design study concept in Detroit

The Toyota FT-1 is a daring design study that will be unveiled in Detroit, U.S.A, which signals the direction of Toyota's future sports car designs. The FT-1 aims to show what can be achieved when the focus is creating a sports car design that will truly excite.

The project started nearly two years ago at Calty Design Research, Inc. (Calty), Toyota's design centre in California, U.S.A. The team was inspired by history - refrencing several sports car in Toyota's sports car heritage - and went as far back as the 2000GT coupe, released in 1967.

In addition, the concept draws inspiration from Calty's more recent sports car concept work such as FT-HS and the Lexus LF-LC.

The front features a boldly shaped fender and sharpness suggesting powerful performance. Dynamic air-intakes, exhaust ports and a retractable wing at the rear give physical form to the Toyota FT-1's optimum aerodynamic performance.

Meanwhile, the cockpit's wraparound windshield and side glass openings are a distinct nod to the design of the legendary Toyota 2000GT. Furthermore, the A-pillars have been positioned as far back as possible to provide increased cornering visibility.

The interior design is highlighted with an ergonomic cockpit that aims to solely focus on the driver and enhance his driving experience. A delta-shaped display zone surrounds and integrates the driver to provide an exhilarating feeling of connectedness with the vehicle. The driver focused environment is further enhanced by an F1 inspired steering wheel and a colour heads-up display - keeping the driver's attention solely on the road.

As part of a companywide movement to invigorate Toyota products with energy, passion and wakudoki, the design approval process has been streamlined. The new approach aims to produce cars that connects more deeply with customers, generating a more satisfying ownership experience that complements Toyota's legendary reputation for quality, dependability and reliability.