“The 1/X (pronounced "one-Xth") is a concept vehicle that redefines from its very roots the idea of what it means to be environmentally considerate.”
The Critics Say...
“Expect a future Prius to incorporate some of the technologies, but not all—the carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic frame and bio-plastic roof aren't likely to make it into an affordable production car. The 125 miles-per-gallon performance will take a hit in a heavier car, too, but it's a step in the right direction.” O—boingboing.net
Toyota’s 1/X, which debuted at the 2007 Tokyo Auto Show, is a lightweight, 4-door tribrid—meaning it can use three different fuels for propulsion: electricity, conventional gasoline, and ethanol (E85). It is named the 1/X because it “weighs only ‘1/Xth’ that of other vehicles in its class.”
Despite Toyota’s emphasis on her nifty powertrain, they also gave consideration to safety, space and weight efficiency. Consequently, the 1/X is sporting some impressive specs.
What We Like
The Flex-Fuel engine. FFV technology—Flex-Fuel—allows the use of E85, a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline. Also called bioethanol, E85 is a high octane fuel that substantially lowers carbon dioxide emissions compared to conventional gasoline.
The plug-in. Coupled with the flex-fuel engine, the plug-in battery addition gives the Toyota 1/X a unique and enviable powertrain.
The safety. The body frame’s rigid carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) should make for outstanding collision safety.
The roof. Made out of a bio-plastic derived from plant material (kenaf and ramie), it improves heat insulation, reduces noise and increases the amount of light entering the cabin
What We Don’t Like...
The design. It’s no mistake she looks like the Prius, but this doesn’t make her pageant-ready. The Prius is a remarkable vehicle in many ways; she’s the bright high school girl with straight-A’s, even good at math, a great conversationalist and a compassionate person … but her body sucks.
Toyota 1/X Specs:
Propulsion system: .5 liter 500cc Flex-Fuel engine
Top Speed: NA
Zero-to-60: NA
MPG: 125
Vehicle range: 600 miles (total)
Fuel(s): Electricity, gasoline, E85
Battery pack: Lithium ion
Tailpipe emissions: Yes
Conclusion
The 1/X made her North American debut at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show, but she’s still a concept. There are plenty of things to like about the 1/X, so we hope to see it on a showroom floor in the near future.