What is the Toyota FT-AC?
Toyota not only basically invented the current crossover SUV class but have also continually been on the leading edge of its progress to a more capable segment. What is the Toyota FT-AC and what does it mean for the future lineup available at White River Toyota? As of right now, the Toyota FT-AC is built purely as a testbed to see what kind of capabilities and systems could be offered in future versions. The automaker is fairly unlikely to put the FT-AC into full production as it is, but there are several interesting developments that came from Toyota’s presentation at this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show.
READ MORE: Don’t want to wait around for the FT-AC? Take a look at the 2018 Toyota RAV4
“FT-AC is perfect for those outdoor enthusiasts who want to dial up the adventure on their weekend getaways,” said Jack Hollis, group vice president and general manager, Toyota division. “No matter the roads, the activities, or the people, FT-AC sparks authentic fun and conversation.”
Design for outdoor adventure
It would appear that Toyota is pretty committed to making its lineup of SUVs more capable than ever. The Toyota FT-AC concept is ready to take drivers and passengers anywhere they want to go. The chassis supports a long wheelbase and wide track. Additionally, the exterior is covered in LED lights that are designed to enhance visibility in just about any set of conditions. As an added benefit, some of the exterior LEDs can be controlled via a new mobile application so they can be turned on and off remotely. Also adorning the outside of the FT-AC is a safari-style cargo management system on the roof which will make it easier to bring everything an adventurer will need for their time outdoors.
Performance specs
Toyota has yet to come out with any specific performance numbers for the experimental FT-AC platform. However, they did mention that the FT-AC would almost certainly be outfitted with some kind of torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system if not full-scale four-wheel drive. They also cryptically mentioned that the FT-AC could also feature some kind of gas/electric hybrid system.
Making memories
When it comes to finding new ways to implement existing technology, Toyota is really thinking out of the box. The Toyota FT-AC has an infrared camera system embedded in the vehicle’s side-view mirrors. This is meant to let drivers document their adventures (or misadventures) with the FT-AC. Even better, Toyota is touting its new Wi-Fi capability which will be able to take any captured footage and store it in the cloud.
Stop by the White River Toyota showroom today to take a look at the current crop of SUVs in our showroom. To learn more about the automaker’s latest technology, be sure to stay tuned to the White River Toyota Blog.
