Friday November 9, 2012 14:00
Is a high performance KERS Hybrid based FR-S in the works? That’s exactly what FR-S chief engineer Tetsuya Tada san stated to Motor Trend in a recent conversation.
When asked about a more powerful FR-S, Tada San dismisses a turbocharged version because a “300-HP with a turbo would be tasteless in this day and age. If we pursue power without regard to fuel consumption, the market won’t accept it. And a turbo would mean the loss of the GT86′s uniqueness.”
Instead, he lets on that they are “looking for a surprise. Something unique. For example a hybrid motor.” “So,” he continues, “We’re looking at a next-generation hybrid. More like the TS030 Le Mans Prototype. We’re looking into that possibility.”
The TS030 has a KERS system, with six-speed transmission and electric drive to the rear wheels in parallel with the gas engine. And yes, there’s actually already a prototype!
Read on and discuss INSIDE.