The Concept Car iQ represents a paradigm
shift in small car design, a concept
car that challenges conventional
thinking of The Concept Car iQ was created
at ED2, automotive hierarchies:
small yet spacious, Toyota's advanced
European design studio premium yet
small.
Realized through the in the south of
France, working under the vision of an
ultra compact, highly space Toyota
design philosophy of Vibrant Clarity - efficient,
environmentally friendly vehicle
design that is forward looking, intelligent
and that maximizes the urban lifestyle of
Europe's energetic while retaining a clarity
of purpose fashionable metropolitan
dwellers and function.
Just a palm shorter than three
meters in length - at 2.98 meters precisely
- the Concept Car iQ is a radical
new approach to vehicle packaging and
design. It challenges the current limitations
of ultra-compact urban transport
by offering an interior capable of seating
four adults or three adults and luggage
space - a unique versatility within
a minimal footprint.
The unveiling of the Concept
Car iQ also reinforces Toyota's
commitment to reducing vehicle
emissions through vehicle concept
innovation. With increasing
traffic congestion in urban
areas, and rising concerns
about vehicle emissions, the
Concept Car iQ presents a
change in vehicle packaging
and footprint, to ensure a sustainable
future.
All aspects of the Concept
Car iQ are designed to convey
a confidence, and vibrance
that belies its size. All are
working to give the car energy
and character that will stand
out and enhance its high fashion
position in the urban environment.
The exterior is simple and daring
with a stable and robust stance
enhanced by the width of the vehicle
contrasting with its short length. In side
profile the ultra-short overhangs and
cab-forward silhouette suggest a dynamic
pose but at the same time interior
space is kept to a maximum. The confident
character of the front juxtapositions
with the small, yet strong structure
give the vehicle an iconic value.
Expressing the structure and construction
of the vehicle is vital to keeping
the design simple yet at the same
time energized, it also serves to clearly
express the concept of the car. The
structures around the 17-inch tyres
form part of the minimal front and rear
overhangs, a synergy that conveys both
strength and agility.
In the interior the basic geometric
structure of the instrument panel creates
an open and wide environment. The
manta-ray-styled centre console, a simple
yet flowing structure that envelops
the instruments to create a clear and
vivid focal point. The air conditioning
vents are constructed from a cylindrical
form clearly relating to their function.
The overall impression is of components
in harmony, forming a new emotional
expression.
