The Sora concept bus is closer
to a production version with Toyota planning to start sales next year and
introduce more than 100 of these buses ahead of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and
Paralympic Games.
Its exterior design adopts a
diamond-shaped cabin that narrows towards the rear, offering maximum space for
occupants while achieving excellent aerodynamic performance.
The flexible layout is made
possible by adopting an in-wheel motor, positioning the wheels at the very
corners of the vehicle, and utilising a body underside cover for the ride
stability and quietness expected in a premium car.
The fuel-cell stack is located
at the front of the vehicle while the hydrogen tank is under the floor.
The Fine-Comfort Ride delivers
quiet, smooth running and makes full use of the large amount of electricity
provided by hydrogen as its energy source.
It incorporates artificial
intelligence and automated driving based on the company's Mobility Teammate
Concept in which the car watches over the driver as needed and assists the
driver as needed.
The interior design concept is
about being wrapped in comfort with the advance autonomous functions and the
touch display arranged around the driver and passenger seats.
Seats allow for flexible
adjustment according to posture, and the displays provide free access to information
by the driver and passengers.
The seat layout is also
flexible; for example, drivers can take their hands off the steering wheel and
turn their seat around to converse with passengers.
Fine stands for "Future
IN Electrified Vehicle" and Comfort Ride embodies the concept of a
comfortable space for transportation, suitable for a next-generation premium
car.