Italdesign Giugiaro designed the AWD sports coupe with over 400 horsepower and three seating.
As the original hybrids of the 2000s were quite dull, hybrids are just now starting to bring some excitement to the sports car world. This Toyota hybrid concept is different. The Alessandro Volta, designed by Italdesign Giugiaro, was a performance coupe with butterfly doors that still turns heads 15 years after its debut.
This is not your average Toyota. It has quad exhausts on the sides and a three-seat configuration. The SUV-derived hybrid powertrain, the Lexus X400h, is hidden behind the sleek styling. The combined output of the first mass-produced luxury vehicle was 268 horsepower. However, the 3.3-liter V6 and the electric motors combined produced a total output of 402 horsepower in the Alessandro Volta concept.
The location of the combustion engine was another major difference between the concept vehicle and the SUV. It was located at the back of the Alessandro Volta. The all-wheel drive layout of the sports provided better traction on all surfaces, as well as the electric motors.
The concept had more to it than just its attractive appearance and electrified engine. It also had some other advantages. With its flat-floored three-seat cabin, any passenger could become a driver. The steering wheel and pedals can slide from left to right. Fly-by-wire technology allows anyone to take control of the vehicle. The car came with a 70kg (154 lb) battery pack and pushrod suspension at both the axles.
The Toyota Alessandro Volta was unfortunately not produced, as it is with many cars.