Toyota recently launched a highly stylish car, the Toyota FT-Me Concept, that is similar to the Citroen Ami.
Subsequently, there has been an important development where Toyota has presented a brand-new idea that is bound to revolutionize the urban transport sector. Known as the Toyota FT-Me, this small-sized electric vehicle can be considered a Citroen Ami rival. Here are some aspects regarding this particular car that are interesting to consider.
The Birth of the FT-Me
Especially one can pin a new world record for Toyota for coming up with the recently unveiled car FT-Me. The principle of this totally electric car is perfect for the density of the large modern city environments, whereby the movements of larger vehicles can be inconvenient. I think that it is rather interesting how Toyota has designed this innovation to meet the needs of the modern man in an urban environment.
Overall, the FT-Me is a tiny car stretching no more than 2.5 meters in length, and it is smaller than the Smart ForTwo. Although it is small and compact, the car can accommodate two people at a given time. In addition, the passenger seat is so foldable that even when it is not in use, it can easily be removed to create more space for large items. This feature makes the FT-Me to be not only an actualized city car but also an all-encompassing car.
Interior Design and Functionality
In the interior of the FT-Me, elegance and practicality come together concisely. The vehicle has a rectangular-shaped steering wheel; this is a creative shape, but in some way fashionable. Perhaps one of the most unique aspects was how your smartphone can be used as the car key and is connected with the car dashboard. I personally find it rather convenient, as it makes driving more efficient and no longer requires the use of different devices.
As such, Toyota has been very considerate in designing the FT-Me model in such a way that its glass covers a large portion of the exterior and a parking assistant is not necessary. This design has beneficial effects on the drivers as it enables them to ease through constricting city roads and alleys.
Eco-Friendly Features
The FT-Me is electrically powered, and the AMS system includes a battery charging system to recharge the battery with the help of roof-integrated solar panels. Such elements not only help in avoiding charges from fixtures like those of electrical outlets but also are environmentally friendly. The maximum speed of the vehicle is only 45 km/h, and this makes it ideal for use within city traffic, while the minimum range of 100 km easily propagates daily traffic.
Accessibility and Legislation
Another strength that cannot be ignored is the ease of use that is accorded to the holders of the FT Me. It is usually possible to use such vehicles in low-emission zones, which is relevant nowadays given the desire of many cities to decrease the pollution level. Moreover, it is also legal for young people or those people with only a scooter license as per the laws in some areas. Subsequently, I agree that it widens the opportunities for operating urban mobility to a broader population, thus increasing the chances of people choosing environmentally friendly means of transport.
Personal Reflection
I myself have found Toyota’s vision with the FT-Me. On the one hand, it responds to several issues that affect the population using public transport in cities, while on the other, it explores possibilities of what a small car can offer. The incorporation of smart technology and the utilization of the green aspect appeal as modern advantages for the users of the FT-Me, specifically in urban environments.
End Note
The FT-Me by Toyota is not only a worthy opponent of the Citroen Ami, but it is much more – it is the vision of changing the faces of urban transport. These truths apply to the cities that develop day by day, and the usage of such innovative appliances as the FT-Me will contribute to the progressive development of extremely beneficial conditions for the population in concrete urbanization. I also have high expectations of the impact of the aforementioned concept on the market as well as future changes to our daily trips.
Toyota FT-Me Concept – Photo Gallery
