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Toyota could use a motorcycle-derived Yamaha engine to power its IQ, the microcar concept that was unveiled at the Frankfurt motor show in September.
Production of this diminutive urban runabout will begin late in 2008 and a compact 1.0-litre engine could be packaged into its small rear engine bay.
The transmission would be located within the engine block and an air conditioning module bolted on the side to keep the size down.
As yet, there’s no confirmation of this new powertrain or any hint as to performance figures, but Toyota and Yamaha have a history of collaboration dating back to the ’60s.
Frugal fuel consumption and very low emissions will certainly be priorities, as basic versions of the IQ will be aimed at developing markets as well as chic young European urbanites.
Toyota is expected to build around 100,000 examples of the microcar after it goes on sale in 2009.
Will Powell
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