A few days ahead of its debut at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show, Toyota has unveiled the Fine-Comfort Ride, a fuel cell vehicle (FCV) that envisions mobility in a low-carbon society with advanced utilization of hydrogen and renewable energy. The Fine-Comfort Ride proposes “a new form of the premium saloon” by employing a flexible layout unique to electric-powered vehicles and a large amount of available electric power using hydrogen as an energy source.
Toyota pursued further possibilities of FCVs through the development of the Fine-Comfort Ride. It offers excellent environmental performance by discharging no CO2 or substances of concern (SoC) while in operation, together with the convenience of a generous cruising range with a hydrogen refueling time of about three minutes.
The concept adopts a diamond-shaped cabin that narrows towards the rear, while being wider in all dimensions from the front to the center of the vehicle, maximizing the space of the second-row seats and aerodynamic performance. In addition, it utilizes a flexible layout unique to electric-powered vehicles, adopts an in-wheel motor, positions the wheels at the very corners of the vehicle, and utilizes a body underside cover, thereby achieving high running stability and quietness suited to a premium saloon.
In adopting the concept of “wearing comfort (being wrapped in comfort),” the vehicle embodies future mobility that provides additional value other than movement to the passengers and is not simply just a “ride.” The Agent function and the touch display are arranged around the driver and passenger seats. The seats allow for flexible adjustment according to posture, and the displays allow the driver and passengers to freely access information. The seat layout can be flexibly adjusted, so Fine-Comfort Ride can be used as individual space or as a communication space for individuals.
The Fine-Comfort Ride boasts quietness and smooth running and also makes full use of the large amount of electricity provided by hydrogen as its energy source. The interior features a full range of equipment, and the car can achieve a cruising range of approximately 1,000 km (621 miles).
Toyota is expected to display the Fine-Comfort Ride at Tokyo Big Sight during the 45th Tokyo Motor Show 2017. The theme for this year’s show, which runs for 12 days from October 25 to November 5*, is “Beyond the Motor.”
all images courtesy of Toyota