- FT-Me could reach production soon with help from new government funding.
- Toyota’s answer to the Citroen Ami will be the subject of a feasibility study.
- The EV measures under 2.5 m (98.4 in.) long and competes in the L6e segment.
It might look like something dreamt up by a designer with a fondness for sci-fi gadgets for teens, but Toyota’s FT-Me concept is more than a flight of fancy.
The pint-sized two-seater EV has taken a tangible step toward production, thanks to a £15 million ($20 million) grant from the UK government that could bring it to European and UK streets before long.
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The investment comes through the UK’s Drive35 program, managed by the non-profit Advanced Propulsion Centre. It will back a Toyota-led consortium including lightweight EV specialists ELM, solar-tech firm Savcor, and the University of Derby.
What’s the Plan?
At its core, the study aims to determine the feasibility of developing a battery electric vehicle designed for Europe’s L6e light quadricycle category, drawing direct inspiration from the FT-Me concept.
Research will take place at Toyota’s Burnaston facility in Derbyshire, while the University of Derby will handle performance testing. The Burnaston plant could even serve as the base for limited local production should the project move forward.
The research will cover the integrated solar roof that was developed by Savcor, enhanced digital connectivity, the extensive use of recycled and sustainable materials, plus the possibility of sharing components with ELM’s last-mile delivery vehicle that was introduced in 2024.
It is safe to assume that some of the concept’s features like the futuristic LEDs will be toned down, although its basic form could be carried over.
The FT-Me was introduced in concept form in March 2025, with clear intentions for production. The sub-2.5 m (98.4 inches) model could compete with quadricycles like the Citroen Ami, Fiat Topolino, Opel Rocks Electric, Renault Mobilize Duo, and Microlino, promising a 90% reduction in carbon footprint compared to urban EVs.
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Toyota estimates a range of 100 km (62 miles), that could be further extended by 20-30 km (12-19 miles) if enough sunlight hits the roof-mounted solar panels.
The L6e regulations require a maximum power output of 5 hp (4 kW) and a top speed of 45 km/h (28 mph). On the bright side, light quadricycles can be driven by 14 year-olds in certain European markets.
Dariusz Mikolajczak, Managing Director of Toyota Manufacturing UK, said:
“We are delighted to receive support from the Advanced Propulsion Centre for this important study. The funding allows us to advance our understanding around the feasibility of creating a cutting-edge battery electric vehicle that addresses the growing demand for sustainable urban mobility. The study acknowledges TMUK’s overall project excellence and will further strengthen our members’ capabilities.”
Toyota hasn’t confirmed when the production-ready FT-Me will make its debut. The timeline depends on the results of the ongoing feasibility study, but if progress stays on course, the compact EV could begin appearing on UK roads within the next few years.
