Toyota presents a new ultra-compact electric car concept, the FT-Me. Designed for the city, this pedal-free vehicle is aimed at young drivers and people with reduced mobility. With an innovative design and reduced energy consumption, could it compete with models already well established in France?
Ultra-compact electric cars are enjoying growing success in France. The Citroën AMI has established itself as a benchmark in this market, followed by other models such as the Fiat Topolino, which uses the same recipe under a different brand. These vehicles are attractive due to their small size, their attractive price, and their accessibility for children as young as 14. Toyota seems to want to enter the race with the FT-Me, an even more compact city car concept. As an entry-level electric vehicle for Europe, the FT-Me is only 2.50 meters long, almost 50 cm shorter than a Citroën AMI. Like Renault's Mobilize Duo, it is distinguished by a futuristic design and an approach focused on urban mobility. But Toyota is innovating by completely removing the pedals, offering driving entirely managed via the steering wheel. A choice that makes it accessible to people in wheelchairs, without any modification necessary. 
The Toyota FT-Me focuses on optimized autonomy and recycled materials
Toyota highlights the energy efficiency of the FT-Me. Its electric motor consumes three times less energy per kilometer than a conventional electric car. In addition, an integrated solar panel on the roof can offer between 20 and 30 km of autonomy per day, which could be enough for short trips around town without needing to recharge. The brand also claims that the use of recycled materials reduces its carbon footprint by 90% compared to current electric city cars.
The FT-Me is primarily aimed at young drivers and people who want to reduce their environmental impact. In some countries, it could be driven from the age of 14 with an appropriate license. However, Toyota has not provided any information on the engine power, the exact battery range, or a possible commercial release in France. With the rise of lightweight electric quadricycles, it remains to be seen whether this concept could one day compete with the already well-established models on the market.
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