The concept was originally intended to be a hybrid Supra. However, Toyota pulled out of production. The styling remained in the 86.
The FT-1 concept of 2014 served as a preview for Supra’s long-awaited resurrection. Today, we take a trip down the memory lane to 11 year ago when Toyota tried to bring back its beloved sports car.
The FT-HS was more than an attractive appearance at NAIAS. It was designed with production in mind. In fact, it received approval from Toyota’s top-ranking officials. It was originally described by a Toyota Australia executive back in the day as “a vision of a Toyota Supraof the future”. However, due to the recession, plans were scrapped within one year.
The FT-HS is similar to the FT-1 concept. It was designed by Calty Design Research in California, Toyota’s design office, which was established in 1973. The showcar was engineered with a backwards-retractable roof made out of a combination between carbon fiber and Kevlar to turn the concept from a coupe to a convertible in just a few seconds. To keep the weight down, more carbon fiber was used in the rear diffuser as well as the 21-inch alloy wheels.
With its unique wedge shape, floating C-pillar and absence of a pillar, the FT-HS made quite a splash in the Motor City. The interior cabin looks futuristic 11 years later and still has the minimalist approach we are seeing more of these days.
In a press release, Toyota asked the question “What makes a good sports car for the 21 century?” A rear-wheel-drive 2+2 model would be the answer. It would include a 3.5-liter gasoline engine that is part of a hybrid powertrain. This combination produces approximately 400 horsepower and can reach 60 mph in just four seconds. The FT-HS was described as an “attainable exotic”, a fun-to-drive sportscar that is affordable and efficient thanks to the hybrid setup. Although the FT-HS’s four-speed automatic transmission was its weak point, it is certain that the production model would have received something better.
Although the FT-HS was never produced, its overall design and styling made it into production. However, it did not make it to the Supra. The GT 86 was presented at the Tokyo Motor Show in road-going specifications with many of the design cues. Rumours suggest that a new generation of this sports car, now called the “86”, will arrive in 2021.
The fifth generation of the much-hyped Supra will be unveiled sometime in the fall, according to reports. It was previewed last month at Geneva Motor Show by the GR Supra Racing concept.