Toyota
C-HR Concept
Inspired
by the warm welcome that the first Toyota C-HR Concept vehicle received when it
premiered at the 2014 Paris Motor Show, designers have created a second C-HR
Concept. Boasting a 5-door cabin, this new design study is more closely
representative of the compact crossover which is now confirmed for production.
Its more refined execution is designed to gage reactions from specific target
customer groups, in order that their feedback may further inform the project
designers and engineers.
This
highly-innovative design study for a stylish, lightweight and dynamic hybrid
crossover is designed to stand out in an increasingly homogenous market place.
It is the next rendition of Akio Toyoda's promise, on taking over the
presidency of Toyota, to build always better cars that bring the fun back to
driving.
Its
compact proportions placing it between the B-SUV and C-SUV segments, the Toyota
C-HR Concept offers the combination of outstanding agility and flexible
packaging, both essential to those with urban lifestyles.
It
has been designed around a new platform, developed under the TNGA (Toyota New
Global Architecture) programme, to satisfy customers' demands for state of the
art handling and controllability. In conjunction, a new, advanced, full-hybrid
powertrain offers a uniquely engaging driving experience matched to 21st
century traffic conditions, whilst delivering outstanding efficiency.
The
new, 5-door C-HR Concept continues Toyota's exploration of an expressive new,
diamond architecture styling theme. Below a compact, sensual cabin profile, the
lower bodywork has been sculpted to represent the facetted surfaces of a
highly-durable, precision-cut gemstone.
In
plan form, the corners of the bodyshell have been cleanly shaved off. This both
removes mass from the overall volume, and highlights the powerful flair of the
front and rear wheel arches, reinforcing the crossover's broad, planted stance
from every viewpoint, and matching the target customer's desire for a vehicle
with a confident and sporty look.
The
new C-HR Concept is a striking representation of the benefits of TNGA; an
innovative, integrated vehicle development approach for powertrain components
and platforms being introduced on new Toyota models from this year forward.
TNGA
manifests itself in the new C-HR Concept through an increase in body rigidity,
better collision performance, improvements to the vehicle underbody and
suspension, and a lowering of the centre of gravity.
Acting
in conjunction, higher body rigidity and a lower centre of gravity reduce body
movement and vehicle roll when cornering. This allows for a reduction in
suspension stiffness and a resultant increase in ride comfort with no detriment
to driving dynamics, equipping the C-HR Concept with the responsive handling,
agility and straight-line stability on a par with the best C-segment
hatchbacks.
Incorporating
a set of new production techniques and technologies that will make it easier to
turn vehicle designs and features into production reality, TNGA groups vehicle
development to promote a strategic sharing of parts and powertrain components.
This approach will reduce the resources required for development by 20% or
more, freeing up investment for improved product strengths and advanced
technology development for sustainable growth.
Following
the overwhelming reaction to the first Toyota C-HR Concept shown at the 2014
Paris Motorshow, TME will continue to work hand in hand with TMC (Toyota Motor
Corporation in Japan) to enter the C-Crossover segment.