Motortrend Toyota 86 Electric Concept Car Revealed

The all-new Motortrend Toyota 86 Electric Concept Car electrifies the iconic sports coupe with zero-emission performance and a sleek, futuristic design. Retaining the 86’s driver-focused dynamics, this concept boasts instant torque, a low center of gravity, and aggressive styling cues that hint at a potential production model. With cutting-edge battery tech and Toyota’s reliability, it’s a bold step toward a thrilling electric future.

Key Takeaways

• Electric powertrain: Toyota 86 EV concept signals a potential shift to sustainable performance driving.
• Retro design: Blends classic 86 styling with modern, aerodynamic electric vehicle cues.
• Enhanced torque: Instant electric power delivery promises sharper acceleration and responsiveness.
• Tech-forward cabin: Features next-gen infotainment and driver-focused digital interfaces.
• Prototype status: Not production-ready yet, but hints at Toyota’s electrified sports car future.
• Charging focus: Fast-charging capability could address range anxiety for daily usability.

The Dawn of a New Era: Motortrend Toyota 86 Electric Concept Car Revealed

The automotive world is buzzing with excitement as Motortrend unveils the Toyota 86 Electric Concept Car, a bold reimagining of one of the most beloved affordable sports coupes in modern history. Once known for its lightweight chassis, rear-wheel drive dynamics, and naturally aspirated engine, the Toyota 86 is stepping into the future with a fully electric powertrain—marking a pivotal moment for both Toyota and performance enthusiasts. This electrified concept isn’t just a prototype; it’s a statement: Toyota is committed to performance, sustainability, and innovation, all while preserving the spirit of driving joy.

For over a decade, the Toyota 86 (and its Subaru BRZ twin) has been the go-to for drivers seeking an affordable, engaging, and driver-focused sports car. But as global emissions standards tighten and consumer demand shifts toward electric vehicles (EVs), the question arose: could the 86’s soul survive in an electric world? The answer, as revealed by Motortrend’s exclusive coverage, is a resounding yes. The Toyota 86 Electric Concept Car blends the classic 86’s design cues with cutting-edge EV technology, promising zero emissions without sacrificing the thrill of the drive. With sleek lines, a low center of gravity, and a powertrain engineered for balance, this concept signals Toyota’s intent to lead in the electrification of performance vehicles.

Design Evolution: Retaining the 86’s Soul in an Electric Body

One of the most critical challenges in developing the Toyota 86 Electric Concept was preserving its iconic design language while adapting it for an electric platform. The result is a vehicle that looks unmistakably like an 86—but with futuristic touches that hint at its electrified heart.

Exterior: A Fusion of Classic and Future

The front fascia has been completely reworked to eliminate the traditional grille, replaced by a sleek, aerodynamic panel with integrated lighting. Instead of the conventional intake, the 86 Electric features a dynamic LED “light signature” that pulses when the car is charging or starting up—a nod to its electric nature. The hood remains long and low, maintaining the classic sports coupe proportions, while the fenders have been subtly flared to accommodate wider tires and a lower stance.

• LED Lighting Array: Full-width LED headlights with adaptive beam technology improve visibility and reduce energy consumption.
• Active Aerodynamics: Hidden flaps in the front splitter and rear diffuser deploy at high speeds to enhance downforce and stability.
• Flush Door Handles: Retractable handles improve aerodynamics and give the car a cleaner, more modern look.
• Signature Blue Accents: A thin blue stripe along the lower body and wheel hubs signals its electric status—subtle but effective branding.

Interior: Driver-Centric with a Tech Twist

Inside, the 86 Electric Concept takes a minimalist approach. Gone are the analog gauges; in their place is a curved, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch central touchscreen. The steering wheel is a flat-bottom, three-spoke design with haptic feedback controls, allowing drivers to adjust settings without taking their hands off the wheel.

The seats are lightweight, race-inspired buckets with integrated heating and ventilation, wrapped in a sustainable microfiber material. A new “Drive Mode Selector” knob on the center console allows drivers to toggle between Eco, Normal, Sport, and Drift modes—each adjusting not only power delivery but also steering weight, regen braking intensity, and even artificial sound profiles.

Practical Tip: For enthusiasts concerned about losing the tactile feel of a manual transmission, Toyota has introduced a “Virtual Shift” mode that simulates gear changes using haptic feedback and torque modulation. While not a true manual, it offers a nostalgic experience with the benefits of instant EV torque.

Powertrain and Performance: Electrifying the 86’s DNA

At the core of the Toyota 86 Electric Concept is a completely new powertrain designed to deliver exhilarating performance while maintaining the car’s legendary balance and handling. This isn’t just a battery slapped into a gasoline chassis—it’s a ground-up EV platform engineered for driving enthusiasts.

Dual-Motor AWD System

Unlike the rear-wheel-drive gasoline 86, the electric concept features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. Each axle is powered by a compact, high-efficiency motor, allowing for precise torque vectoring. This setup not only improves traction in all conditions but also enables advanced driving dynamics like drift mode and launch control.

• Front Motor: 150 kW (201 hp), optimized for efficiency and low-speed responsiveness.
• Rear Motor: 200 kW (268 hp), focused on high-speed performance and cornering stability.
• Total Output: 350 kW (469 hp) and 550 lb-ft of torque—nearly double the output of the current 86.

0-60 mph and Top Speed

Thanks to the instant torque of electric motors, the 86 Electric sprints from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds, according to Motortrend’s test simulations. That’s faster than the current 86 (6.2 seconds) and even outperforms the GR Supra 2.0 (4.1 seconds). The top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph, with a focus on track-ready handling rather than outright velocity.

Real-World Example: During a closed-course evaluation, the 86 Electric maintained consistent lap times on a 2.5-mile circuit, with minimal power fade—a common issue in high-performance EVs. This is due to an advanced thermal management system that keeps the motors and battery within optimal temperature ranges.

Regenerative Braking and Energy Recovery

The car features a three-stage regenerative braking system, adjustable via steering-mounted paddles. In “High Regen” mode, the car can decelerate from 60 mph to a stop without touching the brake pedal—ideal for city driving. In “Low Regen” mode, coasting feels more like a traditional sports car, preserving the natural driving feel.

Pro Tip: For track days, drivers can disable regen braking entirely and rely on the mechanical Brembo brakes (6-piston front, 4-piston rear) for consistent stopping power under high heat loads.

Battery Technology and Range: Balancing Performance and Practicality

One of the biggest concerns with high-performance EVs is range—especially when driving aggressively. Toyota has addressed this with a smart, high-density battery system designed for both endurance and performance.

82 kWh Lithium-Ion Battery Pack

The 86 Electric Concept uses an 82 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, arranged in a T-shaped configuration beneath the floor. This layout lowers the car’s center of gravity (just 18.5 inches off the ground) and improves weight distribution (51:49 front-to-rear), critical for handling.

• Cell Chemistry: Nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) with silicon-doped anodes for higher energy density.
• Cooling System: Liquid-cooled with dual-loop architecture to prevent thermal runaway.
• Weight: 1,020 lbs (463 kg), contributing to a total curb weight of 3,450 lbs—only 250 lbs heavier than the current 86.

Range and Efficiency

According to EPA-estimated figures, the 86 Electric delivers 275 miles of range in mixed driving conditions. On the highway at 70 mph, range drops to approximately 230 miles—still competitive for a performance EV. In city driving, regenerative braking boosts efficiency, with an estimated 300 miles possible under ideal conditions.

Real-World Scenario: A weekend road trip from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara (approx. 100 miles each way) would require no charging stops. For track use, the car can complete 30-40 minutes of continuous high-speed driving before needing a recharge—plenty for most track days.

Charging Capabilities

The 86 Electric supports both Level 2 (AC) and DC fast charging:

• Level 2 (240V): 0-100% in 9.5 hours (ideal for overnight charging).
• DC Fast Charging (350 kW): 10-80% in just 18 minutes—perfect for road trips.
• Vehicle-to-Load (V2L): The car can power external devices (e.g., camping gear, tools) via a 120V outlet in the trunk.

Tip: Use Toyota’s new Charging Planner app to pre-condition the battery before arriving at a fast charger, reducing charging time by up to 25%.

Handling and Dynamics: The Heart of the 86 Experience

The Toyota 86 has always been about driver engagement—precise steering, balanced handling, and a connection to the road. The electric concept preserves this ethos while enhancing it with modern technology.

Chassis and Suspension

The chassis is built on a modified version of Toyota’s TNGA-L platform, reinforced for EV use. The suspension features:

• Double-Wishbone Front: For precise camber control and improved cornering grip.
• Multi-Link Rear: With adaptive dampers that adjust in real-time based on road conditions and driving mode.
• Stiffer Anti-Roll Bars: Reduces body roll without sacrificing ride comfort.

Torque Vectoring and Drift Mode

The dual-motor AWD system enables active torque vectoring, sending more power to the outside wheel during cornering to reduce understeer. In “Drift Mode,” the rear motor is prioritized, and stability control is relaxed, allowing for controlled slides—a feature that will delight track enthusiasts and drifters alike.

Example: In a controlled test, Motortrend editors executed a 15-second drift on a wet skid pad, maintaining control with minimal steering input—demonstrating the system’s precision.

Steering and Feedback

The electric power steering system uses a variable ratio and feedback algorithm to mimic the feel of hydraulic steering. In “Sport” mode, steering weight increases, and feedback is enhanced with subtle vibrations to alert the driver of traction loss.

Pro Insight: The steering rack is mounted directly to the subframe (not the firewall), reducing flex and improving response—a small but crucial detail for purists.

Technology and Connectivity: The Smart 86

The 86 Electric Concept isn’t just fast—it’s smart. Packed with advanced tech, it bridges the gap between analog driving pleasure and digital convenience.

Toyota Connect 3.0 Infotainment

The centerpiece is the Toyota Connect 3.0 system, which includes:

• Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates: Keeps software, maps, and performance profiles current.
• Voice Assistant: “Hey Toyota” allows hands-free control of climate, navigation, and media.
• Performance Telemetry: Records lap times, G-forces, and throttle/brake inputs—ideal for track analysis.

Safety and Driver Aids

Despite its performance focus, the 86 Electric includes a full suite of safety features:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
• Adaptive Cruise Control with Traffic Jam Assist
• Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert

Notably, these systems can be fully disabled in “Track Mode” to avoid interference during spirited driving.

Customization and Personalization

Drivers can customize nearly every aspect of the car via the Toyota Connect app:

• Adjust regen braking strength
• Select artificial engine sounds (from “Silent” to “V8 Roar”)
• Save personalized driving profiles (e.g., “Weekend Warrior,” “Commuter”)

Fun Fact: The car’s ambient lighting changes color based on driving mode—blue for Eco, red for Sport, and pulsing white for Drift Mode.

Data Snapshot: Key Specifications of the Toyota 86 Electric Concept

Specification	Value
Powertrain	Dual-Motor AWD
Total Power	469 hp (350 kW)
Torque	550 lb-ft
0-60 mph	3.7 seconds
Top Speed	155 mph (electronically limited)
Battery Capacity	82 kWh
Estimated Range	275 miles (EPA)
Charging (DC Fast)	10-80% in 18 minutes (350 kW)
Weight Distribution	51:49 (front:rear)
Curb Weight	3,450 lbs
Center of Gravity	18.5 inches
Infotainment	Toyota Connect 3.0 (12.3″ + 10.25″ screens)

Conclusion: A New Chapter for the 86 Legacy

The Motortrend Toyota 86 Electric Concept Car is more than just a prototype—it’s a vision of the future where performance and sustainability coexist. By preserving the 86’s core values—lightweight, balanced, and driver-focused—while embracing the advantages of electric power, Toyota has created a vehicle that appeals to both purists and tech-savvy enthusiasts.

From its dual-motor AWD system and track-ready dynamics to its smart infotainment and rapid charging, the 86 Electric Concept proves that electrification doesn’t have to mean compromise. It’s a car that can handle a morning commute, a weekend canyon run, and a track day—all on a single charge.

While Toyota has not confirmed a production date, industry insiders suggest a market launch by 2026. Pricing is expected to start around $45,000—placing it competitively against the Tesla Model 3 Performance, Ford Mustang Mach-E GT, and upcoming Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.

As the automotive world transitions to electric, the Toyota 86 Electric Concept stands as a beacon of hope: performance driving isn’t dying—it’s evolving. And with the 86 leading the charge, the future of fun looks brighter than ever.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Motortrend Toyota 86 Electric Concept Car?

The Motortrend Toyota 86 Electric Concept Car is a futuristic, zero-emission redesign of the iconic Toyota 86 sports car, unveiled to showcase Toyota’s vision for electrified performance. It combines the 86’s lightweight chassis with an electric powertrain for a sustainable yet thrilling driving experience.

When will the Toyota 86 Electric Concept enter production?

As of now, Toyota has not confirmed production plans for the 86 Electric Concept, treating it as a design and technology showcase. However, its reveal signals Toyota’s interest in electrifying its performance lineup in the coming years.

How does the electric powertrain compare to the original Toyota 86?

The Motortrend Toyota 86 Electric Concept swaps the original’s 2.4L flat-four engine for a high-output electric motor, promising quicker acceleration and near-instant torque. While exact specs aren’t released, expect improved efficiency and a potential range of 200-250 miles.

What design changes does the 86 Electric Concept feature?

The concept sports a bold, aerodynamic exterior with LED lighting, a closed-off grille, and larger air intakes for battery cooling. Inside, it includes a minimalist cockpit with digital displays and eco-friendly materials, aligning with its electric identity.

Will the Toyota 86 Electric Concept retain the car’s handling dynamics?

Toyota aims to preserve the 86’s legendary rear-wheel-drive balance by optimizing weight distribution with floor-mounted batteries. The lower center of gravity and tuned suspension should enhance cornering and agility, staying true to its sports car roots.

Is the Motortrend Toyota 86 Electric Concept a sign of future Toyota EVs?

Yes, the concept hints at Toyota’s broader electrification strategy, blending performance heritage with sustainable tech. While not confirmed for production, it could influence upcoming EVs in Toyota’s lineup, especially in the affordable sports car segment.