Converting old cars into zero-emission machines is becoming increasingly popular as a smart way to keep vintage models alive for future generations. Toyota is testing its factory capacity in this direction with two concepts at the Tokyo Auto Salon in Japan. Both show cars are based on the Toyota AE86 but have different powertrains.
Starting with the AE86 H2 concept, it is based on the Trueno body style with recessed headlights and a two-tone white-black body. It looks almost completely stock on the outside, though a lot has changed under the skin. Toyota has installed Mirai-sourced hydrogen storage in the trunk.
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Under the hood the four-cylinder engine is kept in its original form as much as possible, but with modified fuel injectors, fuel pipes and spark plugs to meet the specifications of the hydrogen system. The Japanese automaker says it has designed the vehicle in such a way that the sound and vibration of the internal combustion engine is still very much present.
Another concept based on the AE86 making its debut at the Tokyo Auto Salon is the AE86 BEV concept, which features a lion body with fixed headlights. It has the exact same livery as the AE86 H2 concept and hiding under the metal is an interesting powertrain. The battery-powered system uses an electric motor sourced from the Tundra Hybrid, a battery pack from the Prius Plug-in Hybrid, and components from other production Toyota and Lexus models.
However, the biggest surprise is the manual transmission and Toyota says it has kept the car’s weight balance close to the original. The company claims that the vehicle offers a very unique driving experience by combining the engagement of a three-pedal car with the “strong driving force characteristics” of an electric vehicle.
Emphasizing two more concepts, ‘Green Credentials have seats inside. These are not brand new seats but have been restored using seat belts and seat belt pads made from recycled materials. Toyota has partnered with a number of aftermarket companies to carry out these two prototypes, although there are no plans for mass production.
