Toyota NS4 Advanced Plug-in Hybrid Concept
Wed, 25 Jan 2012The Toyota NS4 Advanced Plug-in Hybrid Concept marks another step in the recent revival of the company's design direction. Its silhouette is almost identical to the FCV-R concept unveiled in Tokyo, with a soft transition through hood, screen and roof, through to the high rear deck. This has become the visual identifier for hybrid cars of late.
Like the FCV-R, the NS4 flexes visual muscle in its fenders, something not usually associated with this class of car. The NS4 differs from its Japanese-designed twin in its unusual beaked DRG graphics and detail execution such as the prominant chrome flick from DLO into the C-pillar, which is repeated around its head- and tail-lamp designs.
Internally, the NS4's cabin is compartmentalized, with a high central tunnel separating either side, which houses the controls for the HMI. Soft blue lighting (another hybrid signifier) is used throughout the cabin – including the large digital binnacle – which offsets the two-tone black and white clad seats and door cards.
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