World Premieres For Toyota 2011

We already know that Toyota will be unveiling an updated version of its FT-86 rear-wheel drive sports car concept at next month’s 2011 Geneva Motor Show, the aptly named FT-86 II, which we saw a teaser of last month, but now the Japanese auto giant has confirmed several other world premieres.

We can also reveal that the upcoming show will be graced by the appearance of a new electric car based on the Toyota iQ, as well as a concept car previewing a hybrid version of the next-generation of Toyota’s popular compact car. Finally, Toyota will also debut the European version of the more versatile Prius V, the new seven-seat Prius

The iQ electric car is a prototype featuring a newly designed flat lithium-ion battery pack and is good for up to 65 miles on a single charge. It will undergo testing on European roads this year, with a potential introduction to that market through a leasing program in 2012.

Toyota has already announced its plans to bring the car to market in the U.S. as a Scion and is also investigating its viability in other regions.

As for the Yaris HSD (Hybrid Synergy Drive), the new concept will preview the look of Toyota’s next-generation Yaris and also introduce several hybrid-specific styling cues. Additionally, the concept also confirms Toyota's intention to bring full hybrid technology to the compact segment.

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Ondelios Flax Car

Ondelios Flax Renault Concept Car, revealed today as a new eco concept car partly made from flax.

The Ondelios is a 6-seater diesel hybrid that Renault says represents the "medium term future" of motoring. It'll be on show at next month's Paris Motor Show. Renault claims the flax bodywork is there for "for greater recyclability." Flax is certainly a renewable resource - unlike oil-based plastic - but I'm sceptical it has great potential for recycling in the car industry.

A more credible eco claim is the use of carbon fibre and polycarbonate in the car's bodywork, which should reduce its weight and fuel consumption (like, say, the Axon).

Renault reckons the car will manage 120g/km CO2, thanks to its aerodynamic design, light body, low resistance tyres and stop-start technology that saves fuel when you stop at lights. 120g would be pretty impressive for a car this size.

The hybrid tech inside is of the 'mild' variety, meaning it'll assist your diesel driving for fuel efficiency. You can't, however, run on 100 per cent electric alone. The lithium-ion battery recharges when you brake, and the car has electric motors front and back.

The Ondelios certainly looks nice for a concept car -- I'm a sucker for roof-hinge doors -- but the eco claims are a tad oversold. It's basically a luxury concept with decent fuel economy and okay performance of 0-60mph in 7.8 seconds.

My favourite 'eco' element is the promise of a Samsung multimedia gaming gadget for every passenger. Maybe Renault didn't notice, but people already one iPhones and PSPs. If a son of the Ondelios ever sees the light of day, let's hope the Samsung gadgets are an optional extra.

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