In a surprising revelation, CALTY Design Research has unveiled the Toyota Baby Lunar Cruiser (BLC) concept, a testament to its commitment to innovation and design.
Designed to conquer rugged terrains on Earth and even explore uncharted lunar landscapes, the BLC is a testament to Toyota's commitment to innovation and cutting-edge technology.
The BLC concept represents a fusion of adaptive technology and heritage design influences from the iconic FJ40 Land Cruiser. As CALTY's latest brainchild, it bridges the gap between the rugged terrains of Earth and the uncharted landscapes of outer space.
The Baby Lunar Cruiser (BLC) blends design cues from the original FJ40 Land Cruiser with the futuristic capabilities of an interplanetary exploration vehicle.
The Baby Lunar Cruiser boasts cutting-edge technology, with in-wheel electric motors propelling it forward and dual joysticks providing precise control. Its compact footprint and airless tires grant it unparalleled maneuverability, ensuring it can easily navigate challenging terrains. The design emphasizes exceptional outward visibility through a protruding glass canopy and a panoramic augmented reality dashboard display.
Heritage meets modernity
Drawing inspiration from the iconic FJ40 Land Cruiser, the BLC integrates heritage design elements into a futuristic package. The "TOYOTA" script grille proudly displays a full array of cameras and lidar/radar sensors, emphasizing form and function. At the rear, a split tailgate configuration adds to the vehicle's practicality.
Inside, the BLC offers highly adjustable spaceframe seats and Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment (MOLLE) panels, providing flexibility for various adventures. The panoramic augmented reality dashboard display ensures exceptional visibility, making it an ideal choice for off-road enthusiasts and explorers.
Heritage cues include a TOYOTA script grille up front, complete with a full array of cameras and lidar/radar sensors, and a split tailgate configuration in the back.
Looking to the future
As CALTY Design Research celebrates its 50th anniversary, it continues to lead the way in automotive design. Simon Humphries, Toyota Motor Corporation Chief Branding Officer and Head of Design, affirms, "CALTY will be there at the forefront" as the automotive industry evolves towards electrification. CALTY's recent production designs, such as the highly anticipated 2024 Land Cruiser and the 2024 Tacoma, showcase their commitment to embracing new technology while honoring the brand's heritage DNA.
"As CALTY embarks on the next 50 years, Kevin Hunter, president of CALTY Design Research, reflects, “There’s no way we could have thrived without Toyota’s support for enabling new ideas. CALTY’s role to explore, innovate, and inspire is ingrained in our DNA, and we are excited to continue pushing boundaries in automotive design.”
CALTY Design Research, Toyota's innovative design studio in California, is celebrating its remarkable journey of five decades of groundbreaking design and innovation. From the 1978 Toyota Celica to the upcoming 2024 Toyota Tacoma, CALTY has consistently pushed the boundaries of automotive design, introducing countless concepts and production vehicles that have left an indelible mark on the industry.
Originally published on Interesting Engineering : Original article