Electric Toyota Celica Could Use Innovative New Platform And Gigacasting

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The beloved Toyota Celica could be revived as an EV underpinned by the same innovative platform that Lexus premiered with the LF-ZC Concept at the recent Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo.

This isn’t the first time we have heard about a potential new-age Celica. Last month, chairman Akio Toyoda confirmed that he had put in a request to bring the car back for the EV age but noted it’s possible Toyota executives won’t be interested in such a model. If a new Celica is to see the light of day, it could serve as an indirect replacement to the front-engined GT 86 and be sold as an alternative to the FT-Se, a potential ‘mid-engined’ style sports car shown last month as a spiritual successor to the MR2.

Read: Toyota Celica Revival Hinted By Chairman Akio Toyoda

The platform used by the LF-ZC Concept from Lexus is extremely flexible and was also used by the small Toyota FT-Se and FT-3e concepts. This architecture uses gigacasting in its construction to significantly reduce the number of parts needed. The front and rear modules can be scaled up or down depending on the size of the vehicle while the center section houses the battery.

Toyota’s advanced new prismatic battery could also prove to be an important element in reviving the Celica. This pack will be produced in two sizes, one of which stands just 100 mm tall and is incorporated into the floor. This will allow Toyota to build low-slung electric sports cars, Toyota R&D boss Hiroki Nakajima told Autocar.

“Battery height is key for a low Lexus saloon and a Toyota GR sports car. Then, how can we maximize the downsizing of each component? Battery development allows us to expand our output [of more types of cars], reduce their height and change the shape and size. Downsized technology can do shapes you have never seen. By minimising the e-axles and HVAC, you enhance the product.” 

When asked directly about the potential for a new Celica, Nakajima smiled but wouldn’t comment.