2007 Toyota iQ Concept
(from Toyota Press Release) Toyotas revolutionary ultra-compact iQ concept
The intelligent solution to urban transport
Designed within the Vibrant Clarity philosophy
Less than 3 metres in length
The iQ concept
represents a paradigm shift in small car design, a concept car that
challenges conventional thinking of automotive hierarchies: small
yet spacious, premium yet small. Realized through the vision of an
ultra compact, highly space efficient, environmentally friendly
vehicle
that maximizes the urban lifestyle of Europes fashionable
metropolitan dwellers.
The iQ concept was created at ED2, Toyotas advanced European design
studio in the south of France, working under the Toyota design
philosophy of Vibrant Clarity design that is forward looking,
intelligent and energetic while retaining a clarity of purpose and
function.
Managing officer of Toyota Motor Corporations Design activities, Wahei Hirai, says:
"The iQ concept is designed to reflect and enhance the lifestyle of its owners. In an urban environment, people want to express themselves through dynamic and on-the-edge design, but at the same time rational factors such as size, functionality and CO2 emissions cannot be ignored. Bringing these contradictory aims together in synergy was critical to the iQ concept, and is a way of thinking we call the J-factor, a philosophy at the heart of all our activities.
Just a palm shorter than three meters in length at 2.98 meters precisely the iQ concept 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 iQ concept also reinforces Toyotas commitment to reducing vehicle emissions through vehicle concept innovation. With increasing traffic congestion in urban areas, and rising concerns about vehicle emissions, the iQ concept presents a change in vehicle packaging.