The Melbourne Auto Show 2008 had several surprises, we just covered the Holden Coupe and we now move on to the Toyota FT-HS. Coming in an age where hybrid cars are widely appreciated due to the $100+ per barrel price of oil ; the FT-HS combines stylish design with a petrol-electric engine. Despite being a hybrid, this baby promises a pick-up of 0-100 kmph in merely 4 seconds.

The new concept car mates an electric motor to a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine, which is similar to that used in several production models. Its combined power output target is about 300kW - or almost 50 per cent more than the V6 petrol-only engine in the Aurion family car, Kluger mid-size SUV, Tarago people mover and RAV4 compact SUV. FT-HS was produced by Calty, Toyota’s California research and design centre.

TOYOTA FT-HS CONCEPT VEHICLE PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS

Drivetrain
3.5-litre V6 hybrid electric
Target output: around 300kW
Projected 0-100kmh time: mid four-second range
Dimensions
Overall length: 4325mm (170.27 in)
Overall width: 1860mm (73.23 in)
Overall height: 1290mm (50.79 in)
Wheelbase: 2650mm (104.33 in)
Tracks - front: 1600mm (63.0 in); rear: 1555mm (61.2 in)
Wheels: Carbon fibre
Tyres - front: 245/35R21; rear 285/30R21

Another concept which must make it to the production if we are true to our commitment to save the planet.