Toyota AE86 turns into modern classic with zero-emission powertrain

Toyota unveiled the two new AE86 concepts at the 2023 Tokyo Auto Salon, which turn the iconic nameplate into a zero-emission vehicle.

The story behind the Toyota AE86 H2 and BEV concepts

The two new concepts are called the AE86 H2 and AE86 BEV. As the names suggest, one is powered by a hydrogen powertrain, while the other is conforming to the electric vehicle (EV) era. This is part of the Japanese automaker’s commitment to promoting carbon neutrality while “protecting beloved cars.”

Thanks to the use of a hydrogen engine, the Toyota AE86 H2 Concept promises to deliver a driving experience similar to traditional international combustion engine (ICE) cars. It is fitted with two MIRAI high-pressure hydrogen tanks and received changes for the injectors, fuel delivery, and plugs.

Toyota AE86 H2

Meanwhile, the Toyota AE86 BEV Concept uses the electrification technology the brand cultivated with Lexus. The electrified powertrain generates 92 horsepower and 190 Nm of torque on paper. Interestingly, the EV concept is adopting a 6-speed manual transmission, which is said to allow drivers “feel the joy of driving.”

Toyota AE86 BEV

Apart from the zero-emission powertrains, the Toyota concept cars use reusable materials for the seat belts and seat belt pads. The reusable seats are also made from refreshed used seats. These are introduced as part of the brand’s aim to contribute to carbon neutrality together with aftermarket parts manufacturers.

This is not the first time Toyota fitted a hydrogen powertrain into an enthusiast car. Last year, Toyota Gazoo Racing took a hydrogen-powered GR Yaris on a rally course in Ypres, demonstrating that hydrogen can be an alternative to EVs in the future.

Toyota is pushing the envelope for carbon neutrality

Speaking of EVs, Toyota is starting to expand its electrified lineup first with the bZ4X. It even unveiled an all-electric pickup truck concept based on the Hilux Revo in the closing month of 2022. All these models, including the two Toyota AE86 Concepts, reflect Toyota’s efforts to develop zero-emission mobility options.

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