2003 Toyota Fine-N - AllCarIndex

Original name: トヨタFine-N

Fine-N

A fuel cell hybrid vehicle meant to shape the future of motoring, the Fine-N features radical styling in a novel package and 4WD using four in-wheel motors to achieve new dimensions in driving performance together with epoch-making environmental performance.

Long cabin with futuristic styling: Fuel cell hybrid technology permits great freedom in power train layout, allowing the wheels to be positioned nearly at the four corners of the vehicle. Together with a long wheelbase, this results in a long cabin that offers a new experience in driving comfort and convenience, including a control interface that guides the driver with sight and sound.

New dimensions in driving performance: This new package fits heavy components, such as the fuel cell stack, power control unit and battery, in low, central positions to lower the center of gravity and minimize yaw moment of inertia.

Four-wheel in-wheel motor system with by-wire control: Mounted on the inner side of each wheel is a compact, lightweight, high-efficiency electric motor. Each of the four individual motors is rated at 25kW peak power and 110n-m peak torque. Each motor's drive power and braking is individually and continuously controlled by drive-by-wire technology to provide optimized wheel-by-wheel acceleration/deceleration and steering control according to steering angle, vehicle and road conditions and other parameters.

Toyota FC Stack fuel-cell technology: The four in-wheel motors are driven by electric power supplied by the Toyota FC Stack and a lithium-ion battery. Raised fuel-cell efficiency and increased hydrogen tank pressure give the Fine-N a cruising distance of 500km.

Biometric security and personalization system: Using biometric face-recognition technology, this system authenticates drivers to provide enhanced security and then personalizes seat position, audio system, climate control and other settings automatically.

SOURCE: Toyota