Toyota Delves into Electric and Hydrogen Retrofit Technologies

For Tokyo Auto Salon 2023, Toyota is focusing on retrofitting two 1980s AE86 Coups, in 100% electric and hydrogen-powered versions.

Toyota is engaging in retrofitting, similar to Hyundai, which upgraded a pair of vehicles but modernized (or restomodded) models. You might have noticed, but the two cars are not identical. This recalls the history of these models, which existed in two variants: Corolla Levin with standard headlights and Sprinter Trueno with pop-up headlights. The first adopts electric technology, marked with a green logo, and the second features a hydrogen restomod with a blue badge.

Are You More of a Hydrogen-Engine Toyota…

The Sprinter Trueno doesn’t use the widespread fuel cell technology but a true liquid hydrogen combustion engine. This is a solution Toyota has been advocating for several months, through race cars like the Corolla H2 and Yaris H2, and dreams of mass production.

Here, the retro coupe developed by Toyota Gazoo Racing aims to preserve the experience of yesteryear, via “the sound and the vibrations” from the 1.6-liter engine block. It replaces the fuel tank with two hydrogen bottles sourced from the Toyota Mirai, stored in the trunk. However, no details are provided about the power and performance of this hydrogen car. A pity.

…or a Classic Electric Retrofit?

The Corolla Levin is embracing electric retrofit. But unlike its hydrogen cousin, this coupe sacrifices rear seats to house the batteries. The two-seater Toyota has an electric motor in the front, leaving a void under the hood compared to the original thermal engine.

The electric coupe delivers 68.4 kW to the front wheels (92 hp) with a maximum torque of 190 Nm. Interestingly, everything is managed via a 6-speed manual gearbox! Finally, the dashboard remains original, in its vintage style, with the exception of Bride bucket seats.

These two Toyota AE86 H2 and EV Concept are on display from January 13 to 15, 2023, at the Tokyo Auto Salon event (Japan).

Read also: BMW iX5: the hydrogen SUV in production