With the assistance of two Corolla AE86 present vehicles, Toyota has floated the concept of hydrogen or electrical conversions as a complement to brand-new EVs

The Tokyo Auto Salon is massive enterprise on the earth of modified vehicles – however showgoers in all probability weren’t anticipating to see what Toyota confirmed off on its stand on January 13-15, 2023.

A pair of AE86-generation Corolla fashions took delight of place, every sporting a livery impressed by the Preliminary D comedian guide sequence which helped cement the automobile’s cult-classic standing. Thus far, so acquainted – however the adjustments made beneath characterize a radical departure from the fan-favourite 4AG four-cylinder.

All was made clear in a speech made on the present by Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda, who needed to “dismiss the concern that we received’t have the ability to drive our beloved vehicles once we go carbon impartial”.

“Many automakers are concentrating on a shift to battery EVs by round 2030-40,” he acknowledged. “Nevertheless, the fact is that we can not obtain zero carbon emissions in 2050 just by switching all new vehicles gross sales to EVs.”

Toyota’s proposed answer is to discover the conversion of current fashions – on this case bona-fide classics – to run both as battery-electric or hydrogen-powered automobiles.

The Sprinter Trueno mannequin (with pop-up lights) displayed on the present makes use of its unique engine however has been re-engineered to run on hydrogen, whereas the Corolla Levin instance sports activities a battery and motor setup. In every case the guide gearbox is retained, which means “clutch and shifting operation can nonetheless be loved,” in response to Toyoda. Precise technical particulars weren’t offered as a part of the presentation.

Toyota’s iconic idea automobiles – and selection of venue for his or her unveiling – counsel that Toyota is eager to have interaction with homeowners of its older vehicles regardless of company obligations to pursue a contemporary lineup of zero-emissions vehicles within the coming years. “You will need to present choices for beloved vehicles which might be already owned by somebody,” Toyoda instructed.

Are traditional hydrogen conversions the longer term?

Whereas traditional EV conversions are nothing new, Toyota’s floating of hydrogen energy as a viable possibility is especially fascinating, particularly given the Japanese agency’s industry-leading repute with the expertise.

May this be the beginning of a brand new eco-conscious traditional revolution? If previous vehicles can survive together with their all-important inside combustion engines, we’re all ears.

Would you set your automobile ahead for hydrogen or EV conversion? We’d love to listen to your ideas. Drop us a line at ccb.ed@kelsey.co.uk