Toyota unveils the FT-3e AI-designed electric SUV concept

Toyota's unveiled its FT-3e concept vehicle at the Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo. The sharp lines of the 4x4 five-seat SUV make it look like a far more refined Toyota bZ4x.

According to Toyota AI was employed in designing the vehicle, helping achieve what the company says is a simple yet aero-optimized body.

We get a full width rear light bar, squared-off panels, and alloy wheels colored to match the bodywork. There are digital displays running from the wheel arch up towards the door mirror, showing the battery charge, cabin temperature, and air quality. And, in a little flair the vehicle also sports a unique light pattern on the door sills.

This futuristic SUV is 191.3 inches long, 77 inches wide, and 62.8 inches tall. With a wheelbase of 118 inches, it promises ample interior space. The FT-3e sits on the same architecture as the FT-Se concept that debuted alongside it and the Lexus LF-ZL, proving the flexibility of the platform.

Toyota says the new platform enables a low center of gravity and abundant interior space. The company also picked the building materials carefully to keep the wait down.

Toyota provided no range estimates for the FT-3e or a potential production car based on it. Toyota develops its next-gen lithium-ion High-Performance battery pack, which promises an impressive 620 miles of range.

Toyota's CEO, Koji Sato, made it clear at the launch that this modular platform ushers in a new philosophy for Toyota cars, targeting a perfect blend of performance and spaciousness, which, in his words, was "not possible in the past." By making core components lighter and smaller, Sato believes Toyota is positioned to redefine driving feel and design from the ground up.

The lowered center of gravity and superior cabin space was enabled by slimming down the battery pack. While the battery in the current bZ4X stands at 5.9 inches tall, the FT-3e will cut that down to 4.72 inches. This gives designers more leeway allowing them to strike a better balance between interior room and drag.

The company also underscores sustainability with this new model. The FT-3e's eventual road-going version will employ emission-reducing techniques in its production and onboard tech, dovetailing with Toyota's mission to slash its carbon emissions by 35% come 2030.

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