The Toyota A-BAT was on display at the Toyota exhibit in Detroit at the 2008 North American International Auto Show beginning Monday, January 14. Kevin Hunter, president, Calty Design Research, Inc said that "Driving from beyond the suburbs to the city is a way of life for many people. We've taken Toyota's truck heritage to a different level by envisioning a vehicle capable of manouvering the suburbs as well as dirt roads. This compact truck is as comfortable for long commutes as it is for road trips. It can accommodate outdoor toys and home improvement supplies. Plus, customers benefit from the hybrid powertrain's low emissions and fuel economy."
TMS Advanced Product Strategy group and Calty, Toyota's North American-based, research and design centre located in Newport Beach, California are the group that responsible for the A-BAT concept development. This team created a new genre of compact vehicle with good fuel economy, advanced functionality, manoeuvrability, unique styling within its segment, and a durable package suitable for an active lifestyle. Beside the lightweight A-BAT concept package also coupled with Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive technology is designed to deliver excellent fuel economy. Translucent solar panels in the top surface of the instrument panel capture sunlight and convert it into energy, showcasing the vehicle's "green" character. Toyota A-BAT is an environmentally friendly cool truck.
This cool car has a unique aerodynamic exterior crafted by Calty Project Chief Designer Ian Cartabiano and Creative Designer Matt Sperling. They integrated Toyota's design philosophy, "Vibrant Clarity" into the exterior by keeping the design forward-looking, crisp and functional.
Although the A-BAT is rugged and has a spirited exterior, the interior team worked to create a modern look for the interior. The door trim, shoulder, armrest and instrument panel pads and seat cushions are made of a tough, lightweight and comfortable material that can be selected for personalization.
Daryl Harris, Senior Creative Designer said that "The inspiration behind the exposed structure on the interior was drawn from high-end mountain bike frames. "We applied lightweight construction materials, such as carbon fiber and aluminum, to the instrument panel, console and seats for increased structural rigidity while reducing mass." The interior of this cool automotive has a retractable portable navigation unit with a seven-inch diagonal screen and Wi-Fi internet. It also includes other advanced features such as a port for portable device assistant synchronization and a hard drive for digital music. The Toyota A-Bat is the next evolution of compact truck.