- Toyota has introduced the FT-Me, a mini car concept.
- The small electric vehicle accommodates two people and has a top speed of 45 km/h (28 mph).
- It's designed as a transportation option for teenagers or limited urban spaces.
While we have a fondness for vehicles, we prefer they aren’t ubiquitous. In fact, many large urban areas—particularly those in Europe—are progressively cutting down the area allocated to cars. This shift has led to the emergence of a novel category of nearly-car transport solutions: ultracompact electric models allowed in zones off-limits to standard autos but capable enough to merge into normal traffic so long as speeds remain relatively modest. An example of this trend comes via Citroën’s Ami model, and recently, Toyota seems ready to dip their toes in with the FT-Me concept car.
Meet the Micro Yota
Shorter than 98 inches in length, the FT-Me is more compact than a Smart ForTwo but manages to accommodate two occupants. However, the passenger seat is designed to be both light and detachable, allowing room for larger items or cargo. According to Toyota, this feature enables the car to easily house a folded bike when the seat is taken out.
The cabin includes a rectangular steering wheel, with the driver’s smartphone serving as both the key and being inserted into the dashboard. The extensive glazing and unobstructed views are intended to negate the necessity of having parking assistance systems.
Toyota hasn’t shared many details regarding the mechanics but mentions that an electric motor powers the front wheels, with solar panels atop the car capable of directly charging the battery. The maximum velocity is capped at 45 km/h (28 mph). According to Toyota, this concept should offer a practical range of at least 100 km (62 miles).
This category of vehicles (known as L6 in Europe) is permitted in low-emission areas and may be operated by less experienced drivers under certain national regulations—such as individuals not yet eligible for licenses to drive standard automobiles or those holding only a moped permit. According to Stijn Peeters, the lead specialist for new mobility at Toyota and principal designer of these models, such a vehicle serves more than just young people; it could also function well as a supplementary option for city dwellers. He further elaborates: “There’s potential here for us to offer our clients something innovative.”
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