In 1994, Toyota inaugurated a distinctive institution, officially titled the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology. This museum serves as a showcase for prototypes and developmental vehicles, drawing enthusiasts of the brand to its exhibits. Larry Chen, a renowned automotive vlogger, recently conducted a comprehensive tour of this museum, showcasing various automotive treasures. Among the highlights featured in his latest video is an intriguing find—a fully electric 2000GT sports car.
The footage unveils a white 2000GT, its exterior showing signs of age, yet the true significance lies beneath its sleek surface. Concealed within is a complete electric powertrain. Although the video doesn’t delve into extensive details, it strongly indicates that this is the 2000GT Solar Electric Vehicle concept, a collaborative effort by a team of 50 Toyota engineers. A telltale sign is the green stripes adorning the interior, originally part of a special livery showcasing logos from contributing companies such as Panasonic, Denso, and Gentex.
While the cabin predominantly retains its original form with black leather seats, certain elements are exclusive to this electric modification. Notably, the rearview mirror has been replaced with a video camera, and the dash now features seven dials providing information on battery charge and performance. The most significant transformation, however, lies beneath the surface—the original 2.0-liter inline-six engine has been supplanted by a single electric motor, delivering 161 horsepower to the rear wheels. Power is sourced from a 35-kilowatt-hour battery pack.
Referred to as the Crazy Car Project, the electric 2000GT boasted a unique sound system designed to alert pedestrians of an approaching vehicle while providing the driver with a heightened sense of speed. The current operational status of these features remains undisclosed.
Chen’s video also offers glimpses of other noteworthy vehicles within the museum, such as one of Toyota’s experimental safety vehicles, the Toyota Soarer, a Lexus LFA, and additional automotive gems.
