Friday, November 29

The electric return of the Celica: Toyota surprises

At a time when the automotive industry is rapidly moving towards full electrification, toyotaa leader in hybrid technology, plans to take a big leap by launching an all-electric model that will revive the sporting spirit of his iconic Celica.

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This new sports car will not only be an addition to the range of zero-emission vehicles, but a reinvention of a name that has conquered generations of fans of speed and innovation.

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Despite his notable success with hybrids, Toyota has been criticized for its slow adoption of all-electric models. Until now, the only representative of this category on the European market has been the Toyota bZ4Xwhich has had moderate sales performance.

However, the Japanese company is already on its way to correcting this perception with an ambitious plan that includes the launch of an electric sports car, announced under the Toyota FT-SE concept. This model, intended for 2027will mark a new stage in the history of Toyota.

Toyota Celica, a sports car with legacy and cutting-edge technology

From Japan, reports have leaked about mass production of the FT-SE in the near futureand rumors suggest that the sports car will have a power that will surpass even the brand’s most powerful current models, such as the GR Supra.

With an electric traction system and two motors, one on each axle, the FT-SE promises a power of up to 500 HPsupported by state-of-the-art modular batteries.

This configuration, in addition to making it one of Toyota’s most powerful models, will allow an unmatched driving experience, with instant acceleration and optimal weight distribution that translates into greater control and stability in curves.

But the FT-SE will not just be an electric sports car. Following a trend started by other brands, such as Dodge, Toyota could offer two mechanical versions for this model: one completely electric and another with an internal combustion engine complemented by a mild hybridization system.

This decision, although not yet officially confirmed, would generate an interesting proposal for those looking for the excitement of a traditional engine, but with the advantages of electrification.

Rumors and anticipation: an iconic name for the comeback

One of the aspects that has caught the most attention of Toyota fans is the possibility of this electric sports car recovering the name of one of its classic models.

Through a video of future releases on the YouTube channel of toyotaone enthusiast discovered that the company could be considering iconic names like the Celica or the MR2 for this new sports car.

The idea of ​​reviving the Celica, in particular, has unleashed a wave of emotion among the brand’s followerswho see this movement as an opportunity to merge Toyota’s legacy with current sustainability demands.

The Celicaremembered for its innovative design and sports performance, It became a symbol of car culture in the 80s and 90s.

If Toyota chooses to bring it back in electric format, it would not only appeal to the nostalgia of drivers of yesteryear, but it would also capture the attention of a new generation that seeks vehicles with history, but adapted to the future.

Toyota FT-SE Concept
Toyota FT-SE Concept. Credit: Toyota.
Credit: Courtesy

Two possible paths: total electrification or modern hybrid

Although Toyota has not yet officially confirmed whether it will opt for an exclusively electric version or an alternative with light hybridizationexperts in the sector consider that the decision could depend on market expectations in the coming years.

Some analysts point out that a fully electric version would be the best option to consolidate Toyota’s commitment to the electric sports car sector and compete directly with other high-performance models from brands such as Tesla and Porsche.

On the other hand, Offering a hybrid version could allow Toyota to attract customers who are not ready to make the full leap to electrificationbut they are looking for an intermediate option.

This duality would also give the company the opportunity to adapt to different markets, especially in regions where charging infrastructure for electric vehicles is still developing.

Cutting-edge technology: the promise of an electric “manual” transmission

One of the most intriguing elements of the FT-SE is the possibility of it including a “manual” transmission for electric vehiclesan innovation that Toyota patented a few years ago.

Although it may sound contradictory, this technology seeks to offer a driving experience closer to that of traditional sports cars, giving the driver the feeling of control and excitement that characterizes high-performance vehicles.

The simulated manual transmission in an electric vehicle would be a nod to sports car purists, who often prefer the interaction and control that manual shifts offer.

This aspect could differentiate the FT-SE from other electric sports cars on the market and make the driving experience even more attractive.

A launch expected in 2027

The official launch of Toyota FT-SE In its electric version it is planned for 2027although it is possible that the version with an internal combustion engine, if it materializes, will be available a year earlier, in 2026.

This model, which is emerging as Toyota’s most powerful sports car to date, promises to set new standards in design, technology and performance within the electric sports car segment.

Toyota’s commitment to the FT-SE and the possible revival of the Celica name represent much more than a simple addition to its portfolio; They are a reflection of the evolution of the brand and its commitment to a sustainable future.

As the release date approaches, expectations among sports car fans growand Toyota is preparing to fully enter the electric sports competition with a model that combines tradition and innovation.

In a world where electrification is rewriting the rules of the automotive market, Toyota shows that it is possible to adapt without losing its essence.

With the FT-SE, the Japanese company is charting a bold path into the future, one that not only seeks to reduce emissions, but also keep alive the legacy of iconic models like the Celica.

Whether in electric or hybrid version, this sports car promises to offer drivers an exciting experience, full of history and cutting-edge technology.