2003 Toyota CS&S Concept
(from Toyota Press Release) Meet the CS&S, the first hybrid open sports car, a 2+2 configuration with a midship engine on a short chassis. Exhilarating acceleration and the all-wheel control of E-Four (Electric 4-Wheel Drive) take you to a new level of driving pleasure.
Environmental and driving performance – a new high in compatibility
The midship-mounted
next-generation Toyota Hybrid System employed by the CS&S achieves
both
high power and environmental performance at the same time. While
reducing the environmental
burden, this powerhouse raises the “fun to drive” quotient for real
sports car excitement. It’s another
pioneering step into the automotive future for Toyota’s hybrid
technology.
Alluring styling hints at powerful performance
This simple, geometric
form organically melds wheel arches with 2-seater canopy lines. The
contrast of curves and sharp angles on the CS&S body complements its
short, wide and low-slung unique
proportions, reflecting Toyota’s design philosophy of “Vibrant
Clarity.”
Simple & sporty interior
Linked to the exterior
design, a horseshoe motif defines individual spaces for driver and
passenger
in this simple interior design, which expresses the vehicle’s sporty
performance. Located between
the front seat and the midship hybrid unit, the rear seat can be
made available by sliding open the
rear canopy. Though short, the CS&S offers 2+2 convenience. Pushing
the front seats down creates
a protective cover for security, thereby overcoming a weak point of
convertible designs.
Futuristic interface – Toyota Space Touch
A magnified image of the
interface is projected on a screen so that controls appear to float
in midair.
“Touch” these virtual controls and a video camera captures your hand
position to provide intuitive,
stress-free response. The result is effortless operation of the car
navigation system, air conditioner,
and other functions, for the driver as well as passenger.