Frankfurt - Toyota announced plans to develop higher-performance versions of its hybrid technology for core models.
Hybrid C-HR
The significant announcement accompanied the world premiere of a striking hybrid concept car based on the C-HR SUV at the #Frankfurtmotorshow in Germany.
Created by Toyota's European design studio ED2, the C-HR Hy-Power Concept explores a more "performance-focused hybrid powertrain as well as new ideas in colour, texture and trim," says Toyota SA.
The automaker says that the concept has been designed around the use of a new hybrid powertrain that offers more power and performance than the 90kW combined system output featured in Prius and European versions of the C-HR. Locally the C-HR is fitted with a 1.2 litre turbo petrol engine.
The Japanese automaker said more details regarding the significant and strategic future development of higher performance hybrid options would be revealed early next year.
The Toyota C-HR, which was launched locally in February, has enjoyed strong global sales success with its striking styling and a rewarding driving character, founded on its Toyota New Global Architecture-based (TNGA) platform.
ED2 chief designer Lance Scott said the design team did not want to make significant changes to the dramatic and highly distinctive design of the production car.
Scott said: "What we wanted to do was almost to purify or concentrate the unique value of the Toyota C-HR and see how we could give it further emphasis by using a new and unique colour and interior trim execution.
"The challenge was not to stray away from the qualities that define the Toyota C-HR, but to add to them in a fresh and original way."
Toyota has sold more than 10 million hybrids globally, with hybrid technology forming a cornerstone of Toyota’s long-term outlook and environmental strategy.