The Toyota FT-1 aims to show what can be achieved when the focus is creating a sports car design that will truly excite.
The FT-1 is one of the most significant concepts unveiled by Toyota in recent years – and with such stunning styling and perfect proportions, it’s no surprise that it’s one of the most popular. The design study, created by the US-based design studio CALTY, explored the possibility of a future Toyota sports car.
The latest interpretation of the show-stopping concept coupe features new graphite paintwork in place of the vibrant red featured on the original concept, first seen at this year’s Detroit Motor Show. There is also a new interior treatment, with saddle tan leather elements to give a more sophisticated feel.
Modern Superhero Vehicle
The FT-1’s interior designers drew their inspiration from modern superhero films, particularly their use of high-tech performance materials for the character’s costumes, as opposed to the bright tights and garish colours sported by more traditional characters.
To achieve the FT-1’s advanced-looking, intricately detailed interior, Toyota’s CALTY design team in California compared leather thicknesses, grain sizes and textures to find the perfect combination. Raised metal mesh provides ventilation for the seats, while also lending a more textural, bold effect that compliments the cabin’s metal accents. An embossed pattern on the instrument panel leather creates a 3-D, technical look.
Flow on the wheel
Selene Lee, a CALTY designer, said: “From the start of the FT-1 project, we wanted the driver to have a feeling of flow while at the wheel – to be able to focus on the road and nothing else.
“In the colour studio we help create the atmosphere of the vehicle, and our aim was to ensure everything supported the driver through efficient choices. The saddle leather maintains that same ‘in the zone’ driving intention, while bringing in a more premium feeling.”
Players of the Playstation® game Gran Turismo 6 will be able to download three different versions of the FT-1: both red and graphite models will be available, together with the high-performance ‘Vision GT’ edition.