With hybrid technology gaining a foothold in major racing disciplines like Formula 1 and endurance racing, Toyota is exploring its use on performance road cars as well. This is what the Yaris Hybrid-R concept is all about. Based on the Yaris 3-door, the study is powered by a highly tuned 1.6-liter gasoline engine combined with two electric motors to provide an “intelligent electric four-wheel drive capability,” according to Toyota.
The 300hp direct-injected turbocharged gasoline engine was specifically developed by Toyota Motorsport GmbH (TMG) according to FIA rules for a Global Race Engine and will be used in different motorsport competitions.
While the combustion engine drives the front wheels, each rear wheel is individually powered by a 60hp electric motor – the same as the one used in the standard Yaris Hybrid. Overall, the hybrid powertrain develops a system output of 420 hp.
Toyota says that the energy recovered during braking is stored in a super capacitor, just like in the TS030 Hybrid endurance racecar. In the Yaris, the capacitor is located under the rear seat, where the Yaris Hybrid’s battery is usually positioned. The super capacitor has a higher power density and a fast power charge/discharge speed compared to the battery and is therefore better suited to sporty driving on track.
There’s even a third 60hp electric motor, located between the engine and the 6-speed sequential gearbox, that operates as a generator during deceleration to feed the super capacitor and during acceleration to directly power the rear electric motors.
The design of the car reflects its performance, with the Yaris Hybrid-R featuring a more aggressive look thanks to newly designed headlights, a wider front grille and black and blue details contrasting with the white body color. The front bumper includes two large air intakes and blue LED DRLs, while the flared fenders house unique 18-inch TRD wheels fitted with 225/40 R18 Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tyres with an asymmetrical tread design.
The study features grooved and perforated brake discs with six-piston calipers in the front and four-piston calipers in the rear. The racing theme continues with the quick opening fuel cap located on the rear pillar. The LED taillights, roof-mounted spoiler, large diffuser and central exhaust pipe complete the styling package.
On the inside, the concept features dual tone Recaro bucket seats with black leather side bolsters and blue Alcantara. The latter is also used to cover parts of the door panels and the dashboard. The sport steering wheel is also wrapped in Alcantara, while the shift lever is located high and close to the driver’s right hand, just like in a racing car. The steering wheel features a button used to select the “Track” or “Road” mode at rest, or the “Boost” function while driving.
Since the current Yaris lacks a hot-hatch variant, we can only hope Toyota will decide to build a limited production version of the Hybrid-R, but we wouldn’t bet on it…
By Dan Mihalascu
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