Toyota will also be showing two MPV-minivan style concept vehicles; the full-size Estima Hybrid concept, and the smaller FSC MPV concept. Though no longer sold in North America, the Estima is the Japanese equivalent to
 |
| Though no longer sold in North America, the Estima is the Japanese equivalent to the Previa van. (Photo: Toyota) |
the Previa van. An evolution of the current Estima in its exterior styling, the concept showcases what the next large Toyota van might look like - a sleeker shape with swept-back grille and lamps gives it a sophisticated style that Toyota describes as "one-motion form". The van's Hybrid title gives a better clue as to what's in store - the all-new THS II hybrid driveline system.
From a technical standpoint, THS II takes all the advancements initially made with the HSD (Hybrid Synergy Drive) and moves them a step forward. One key upgrade to the system is an exhaust heat recovery system which aids in conserving driveline energy, in combination with better batteries and more powerful, efficient motors. So advanced is the THS II system in power management, that it's able to
 |
| The FSC is a crossover vehicle which blends the characteristics of a luxury sedan with the practicality of a minivan. (Photo: Toyota) |
power electrical appliances that run on a 1,500 watt power supply system in the concept's interior. Mechanically, the THS II system works in conjunction with E-Four (electric four wheel drive), combining electric motors with the gasoline engine to provide performance and economy through all kinds of driving situations.
The FSC on the other hand is crossover vehicle which blends the characteristics of a luxury sedan with the practicality of a minivan. The FSC concept puts focus on passenger comfort with soft ambience lighting, intuitive controls and an electronically adjustable interior layout. At the touch of a button, the four-seater FSC conforms to different settings depending on the needs of the driver, ranging from cargo-maximization to lounge-like seating arrangements. An electronically operated rear hatch makes the FSC an open and shut case of putting a buyer's comfort-related needs first - in concept form.
