Toyota Gazoo Racing has embarked on testing its initial battery-powered prototype, and Akio Toyoda, the company’s chairman, is actively involved in the development process to ensure that it lives up to expectations, according to Autocar UK.
During the recent Le Mans 24 Hours event, Toyoda shared his aspirations for the forthcoming electric vehicle (EV), stating that its driving experience must match or exceed that of current combustion-engined models such as the GR86, GR Supra, GR Yaris, and GR Corolla.
Toyoda emphasized, “The starting point is not what powertrain the car has, but how fun it is to drive regardless of that powertrain.” He revealed that he recently had the opportunity to test drive a battery electric vehicle prototype the company is working on. While he didn’t confirm whether the car would make it to the market, he stressed that the primary goal of such vehicles is to offer an enjoyable driving experience, irrespective of the powertrain employed.
In line with this philosophy, Toyoda suggested that the EV would incorporate several characteristics typically associated with combustion-engined cars. This includes features like a clutch, gearbox, and even engine-like sounds to mimic the traditional driving experience.
According to Toyoda, “The biggest difference to other battery electric vehicles we are developing is that, when you are in the GR EV, you can actually hear the engine noises, even if you can’t smell gasoline.” He added, “There is also a manual transmission and also a clutch. If you put someone in the car and asked them to drive it and guess the powertrain, they probably wouldn’t be able to tell you.”
The mention of a manual gearbox lends credence to speculation that the GR model could be developed in collaboration with a similar offering from Lexus. Last year, the luxury brand revealed early details of a manual transmission project for future EVs.
Takashi Watanabe, the chief engineer at Lexus, explained that while the gearstick and clutch would not be mechanically connected to the electric motor, they would simulate gear shifts by adjusting the torque settings of the motor. Additionally, the system could be programmed to replicate hill starts or even mimic a stall, penalizing poor driving habits.
Toyoda emphasized that the GR test car is still in the prototype stage and symbolizes the company’s willingness to embrace new ideas. He stated, “Whether it makes it to the market or not, what the company is trying to do is explore the idea of what it is that we shouldn’t lose in a car even if it becomes an EV.”
Toyota’s foray into EVs with a potential manual transmission and clutch showcases their commitment to providing a driving experience that enthusiasts will appreciate, even as the automotive industry transitions to electric powertrains. While specific details about the EV’s release remain uncertain, the prototype serves as an experimental platform for Toyota to explore and redefine the essence of driving pleasure in an electric era.
