Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC), at the 2003 North America International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, on Tuesday unveiled the SU-HV-an SUV concept vehicle featuring the new Hybrid Synergy Drive hybrid system, which is claimed to be an evolutionary leap in hybrid technology.
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When paired with a V6 (3.3L) engine, the new system achieves dynamic performance on par with a V8-powered SUV, giving the SU-HV the all-important motor vehicle characteristic of being fun to drive. Toyota claims the SU-HV driving experience is also smooth, thanks to an electronically controlled CVT (continuously variable transmission) for shift shock-free acceleration.
On the environmental side, the Hybrid Synergy Drive gives the SU-HV compact-class fuel efficiency and puts it in the highest tier of ultra-low emission SUVs. Preventive safety in the SU-HV is highly enhanced through electronically controlled 4WD and an ECB (electric control braking) system.
Toyota also displayed the FINE-S (Fuel Cell Innovative Emotion-Sport), a distinctive next-generation sports vehicle concept that maximises the special advantages of fuel cells, and the FJ Cruiser, an off-road type concept vehicle.
The FINE-S features Toyota’s proprietary fuel cell and hybrid technologies but is an evolutionary design with low centre of gravity achieved by mounting the fuel-cell power unit and auxiliary equipment below the floor and independent four-wheel control.
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By GlobalDataThe FJ Cruiser is based on the ‘original’ Land Cruiser FJ40 and was developed with modern vehicle concepts in mind to appeal to the small truck market and younger drivers.
