Toyota to showcase Yaris Hybrid-R concept at Frankfurt auto show

Toyota is going high performance for the Frankfurt motor show. The company is bringing a smoking-hot version of its Yaris compact called the Yaris Hybrid-R. Toyota says it combines the technology of its hybrids and the engineering of its racing prototype, the TS030.

The Yaris Hybrid-R uses a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine for its base power. That's supplemented by two powerful electric motors at both of the rear wheels. The main combustion engine, specifically developed by Toyota Motorsport GmbH to conform to FIA rules, makes 300 hp and 309 lb-ft of torque. The two electric wheel motors make 60 hp apiece for a whopping system total of 420 hp.

Like many hybrids, the two electric motors work as generators during braking, storing energy in a super capacitor, located under the rear seat.

A third 60-hp electric motor sits between the engine and the six-speed sequential transmission. It operates as a generator as well, during deceleration to feed the battery and during acceleration to power the rear wheels.

Toyota says that the Yaris Hybrid-R features a more aggressive, emotional interpretation of the design language that characterizes recent Toyota models. We say that's an understatement: This is the sportiest Toyota this side of the Lexus LFA. The bumper incorporates two large air intakes and LED daytime running lights. Flared fenders surround 18-inch TRD wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires. The brakes are slotted and drilled.

The Yaris Hybrid-R has both road and track modes, changed with a button on the steering wheel. Road mode reduces the engine output and fuel consumption, and lowers the turbo compression ratio to conserve energy. Depending on the charge of the battery, the hybrid can operate under purely electric power.

Track mode makes full use of the system's power. The engine delivers 300 hp while the electric motors add short boosts of 120 extra hp, for up to 5 seconds. The rear motors kick in when a loss of grip is sensed in the front. Torque can be unevenly distributed in the back, depending on conditions.

The company says the concept “indicates a potential direction for the development of hybrid technology towards more driving pleasure.”

Toyota, we'd love to believe you.

About the showThe 2013 Frankfurt motor show will be held Sept. 10-22 in Germany. Premium automakers appear ready to try to outdo each other with eye-catching electric supercars. Green technology and fuel efficiency will take center stage on the stands of most automakers at the show. For news, reveals and photos straight from the floor in Frankfurt, check out our special Frankfurt motor show section here.

By Jake Lingeman