AE86 Electric Concept Makes Epic Comeback at Tokyo Auto Salon for Gymkhana Battle with Drift Legend

Taking on Keiichi Tsuchiya’s AE86 Super Mame-go in a gymkhana showdown.

Additionally, the GR Supra GT4 and GR86 have also made their debut.Toyota has dominated the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon with a multitude of fresh cars, prototypes, and modified vehicles. One of the highlights is the AE86 BEV Concept, a modernized version of a beloved Japanese car that was first showcased at last year’s event. Furthermore, the grand reveal of the GR Supra GT4 and GR86 has also captured the attention of automotive enthusiasts.

Transforming a cherished vehicle like the AE86 Levin with electrification might provoke backlash from traditionalists, yet Toyota’s intention was to demonstrate their commitment to eco-friendly options for preserving beloved classics. The BEV Concept, which was initially unveiled in 2023, has undergone multiple enhancements and is now officially allowed on public streets, thanks to acquiring Japanese license plates. Regrettably, Toyota has not disclosed the specific upgrades made.

Moreover, Kinto’s Vintage Club, a Toyota subsidiary that caters to vintage car enthusiasts, will provide members with an exclusive chance to experience the electrifying AE86 BEV Concept later this year.

If you’re one of the fortunate individuals attending the Tokyo Auto Salon in Japan, get ready for an epic gymkhana battle between Toyota and renowned drifter Keiichi Tsuchiya and his AE86 Super Mame-go. The event will pit their vehicles against each other in a thrilling display of skill and power.

Drawing inspiration from the popular Manga series Initial D, the GR86 special edition and its siblings, the Levin and Trueno, stole the spotlight at last year’s show. Toyota engineers prioritized keeping weight to a minimum, utilizing an electric motor sourced from the Tundra Hybrid, a battery from the Prius Prime, and incorporating technology found in Lexus hybrid models. The electric version of the Levin even features a manual transmission, a feature Toyota plans to incorporate into their future electric vehicles to enhance the driving experience.

The enhancements made to the interior have a strong emphasis on being environmentally conscious.

Bride’s supportive racing seats have been given new purpose in both models, with recycled textiles used to create the seatbelts and seatbelt pads. The installation of a roll cage not only strengthens the car, but also offers added safety in the event of a collision.

The AE86 also offers an alternative 4A-GE 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine powered by hydrogen, presenting a greener option for customers. Despite a considerable decrease in emissions, drivers can still experience the excitement and noises typically associated with a traditional combustion engine without concerns about harming the environment.

For many years, Toyota has been a strong advocate for hydrogen-powered technology. Not only has the company allocated significant resources to explore various concepts, but it has also conducted experiments with hydrogen combustion as a means of propulsion in motorsport environments. This diverse range of efforts not only demonstrates Toyota’s commitment to sustainable mobility, but also highlights its multi-faceted approach to tackling this issue.

In the near future, it is possible that vintage Toyota cars will have the option of being equipped with similar conversion kits.