The Electric AE86 with a Stick Shift with Kenji Arai, Chief Engineer
About this episode
Kenji Arai, Chief Engineer at Toyota, discusses the electrification of the iconic AE86, transforming it into an electric vehicle with a manual transmission. The episode dives into the engineering decisions behind using a Tundra hybrid motor and a Lexus NX battery, maintaining the classic driving experience while adding modern electric torque. Arai shares insights on the challenges of preserving the AE86's spirit, the importance of manual shifting, and the vehicle's performance. The conversation also touches on future possibilities for electrifying classic cars and the feedback received from enthusiasts.
In this episode of The InEVitable by MotorTrend, hosts Ed Loh and Jonny Lieberman go hands-on with one of the most surprising EV conversions ever attempted — the Toyota AE86 Levin BEV, an electric restomod created by Lexus Electrified Development Division. Joining them are Kenji Arai, Chief Engineer at Lexus Electrified, and Toshi Hayama, JDM legend and translator, to discuss why Lexus chose to electrify one of Japan’s most iconic lightweight sports cars and what it means for the future of driving fun. This isn’t a gimmick — it’s an EV with a *manual transmission*, real gear shifts, simulated 4A-GE engine sound, and the soul of the 1980s drifting icon. From the technical challenges of reusing Lexus hybrid parts to how feedback from this prototype could inform future BEV sports cars, this is an inside look at Toyota and Lexus’ electrified philosophy for enthusiasts.
Toyota Ae86
"... and I just got to drive a very awesome Hachiroku AE86 Toyota. This is an iconic vehicle known all acros..."
The Toyota Corolla is a small car that many people love because it's dependable and doesn't use a lot of gas. It's popular around the world, which means lots of people trust it to get them where they need to go.
The Toyota Corolla is a compact car that has been one of the best-selling vehicles worldwide for decades. Known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, it appeals to a broad range of drivers, making it a staple in the automotive market.
86 life
"Big here in LA, big here in 86 life. Yes, anybody who's into the import scene in the Japanese cars into classic 80s vehicles, they know this vehicle, they love this vehicle."
'86 life' is about the love for the Toyota AE86, a fun and light car from the 1980s that people enjoy driving, especially in sports like drifting.
The term '86 life' refers to the culture and community surrounding the Toyota AE86, a popular model from the 1980s known for its lightweight design and rear-wheel drive, making it a favorite among enthusiasts for drifting and canyon carving.
inline four cylinder
"...you know, inline four cylinder lightweight rear drive vehicle known for canyon carving and for drifting?"
An inline four cylinder engine is a common type of engine with four cylinders lined up in a row. It's often found in smaller cars and helps them be lighter and more fuel-efficient.
An inline four cylinder engine is a type of engine configuration where four cylinders are arranged in a straight line. This design is common in smaller cars due to its compact size and efficiency, making it suitable for lightweight vehicles like the AE86.
kilowatt
"...they put the motor 36 kilowatt..."
A kilowatt is a way to measure how much power something uses or produces. For electric cars, it helps us understand how strong the motor is and how fast it can go.
A kilowatt is a unit of power equal to 1,000 watts. In the context of electric vehicles, it measures the power output of the electric motor, which influences acceleration and overall performance.
Toyota Tundra
"motor from a Tundra hybrid under the hood of this Corolla."
The Toyota Tundra is a big truck that can carry heavy loads. Here, its hybrid engine is being put into a smaller car, the Corolla.
The Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck known for its durability and capability. In this case, its hybrid motor is being used in a Corolla.
six-speed manual transmission
"It's a six-speed manual transmission from a current generation 86, which is also strange."
A six-speed manual transmission is a type of gearbox that lets you change gears six different ways. It helps the car go faster and use less fuel compared to older models with fewer gears.
A six-speed manual transmission allows for six different gear ratios, providing better control and efficiency compared to older five-speed versions. This is particularly relevant in performance and fuel economy.
lithium-ion battery
"And then powering it is an 18.1 kilowatt hour lithium ion battery."
A lithium-ion battery is a type of battery that stores energy and is used in many electric and hybrid cars. They help the car run longer and charge faster.
Lithium-ion batteries are commonly used in electric and hybrid vehicles due to their high energy density and efficiency. They allow for longer driving ranges and quicker charging times.
Lexus NX 450h
"And the battery is out of a Lexus NX. NX 450H plug-in hybrid."
The Lexus NX 450h is a fancy small SUV that uses both gas and electricity to drive, making it more fuel-efficient.
The Lexus NX 450h is a luxury compact SUV that features a hybrid powertrain, combining gas and electric power for better efficiency.
plug-in hybrid
"NX 450H plug-in hybrid. Plug-in hybrid, yeah."
A plug-in hybrid is a car that uses both gas and electricity. You can charge it by plugging it into a wall, which helps save fuel.
A plug-in hybrid is a vehicle that can run on both gasoline and electricity, with a larger battery that can be charged by plugging it into an electrical outlet.
horsepower
"So it's not up to modern-day power standards, but about 127 horsepower."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. More horsepower means the car can go faster and do more work.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to describe the power output of engines. In this context, it refers to the engine's ability to perform work.
power-to-weight ratio
"The power-to-weight is also very similar to the original. The original was around 2,100 pounds, 2,159 pounds."
Power-to-weight ratio tells you how much power a car has compared to how heavy it is. If a car is light and has a strong engine, it will usually be faster.
The power-to-weight ratio is a measure of performance that compares the power output of a vehicle's engine to its weight. A higher ratio typically indicates better acceleration and overall performance.
Hoonatron
"...I drove the Hoonatron, so the Audi electric, you know, chem block car."
The Hoonatron is a special Audi car made for drifting, which is a type of driving where you slide the car around corners. It's electric and built for fun and performance.
The Audi Hoonatron is an electric vehicle designed for drifting and performance driving, showcasing Audi's capabilities in electric motorsport. It combines advanced electric technology with a focus on high-performance driving.
Audi Q7
"...that was made up of four batteries out of the Q7 plug-in hybrid."
The Audi Q7 is a big, fancy SUV that can carry a lot of people and stuff. It's known for being comfortable and having lots of tech features.
The Audi Q7 is a luxury SUV known for its spacious interior, advanced technology, and strong performance. It often features a range of powerful engines and is available with various drivetrain options, including plug-in hybrid variants.
right-hand drive vehicle
"Well, it's a right-hand drive vehicle. So you're shifting with your left hand."
In a right-hand drive car, the steering wheel is on the right side, which means you drive on the left side of the road. This is different from most countries where the steering wheel is on the left side of the car.
A right-hand drive vehicle is designed for driving on the left side of the road, with the steering wheel located on the right side of the car. This configuration is common in countries like the UK, Japan, and Australia.
roll cage
"So it has a cage. Most of the interior has been stripped out."
A roll cage is a strong frame inside a car that helps keep people safe if the car flips over. It's like a protective skeleton that stops the car from crushing in on itself.
A roll cage is a safety feature in cars, particularly in racing vehicles, designed to protect occupants in the event of a rollover. It provides structural support and helps maintain the integrity of the passenger compartment during an accident.
diamond plate
"So there's diamond plate on the floor. Diamond plate on the floor is the best part."
Diamond plate is a tough metal floor that has a pattern that looks like diamonds. It helps people not slip and makes the floor very strong.
Diamond plate is a type of metal flooring that features a raised pattern, providing increased traction and durability. It's often used in vehicles and industrial settings for its strength and non-slip properties.
stiff suspension
"It's the suspension is pretty stiff."
A stiff suspension means the car's springs and shocks are very firm. This helps the car handle better when turning, but it can make the ride feel bumpier.
A stiff suspension refers to a vehicle's suspension system that is designed to be less compliant, providing better handling and responsiveness but at the cost of ride comfort. It's commonly found in performance and race cars to enhance cornering stability.
lightly assisted steering
"It's very lightly assisted. I mean, look, here's what you want to know."
Lightly assisted steering means the steering wheel is easier to turn, but not too much, so you still feel what the car is doing. It's common in older cars, making them feel more connected to the road.
Lightly assisted steering refers to a steering system that provides minimal power assistance, allowing for a more direct connection between the driver and the road. This can enhance the driving experience, especially in older cars where feedback is more pronounced.
old sports cars
"However, all old cars, especially old sports cars, they're all small engines."
Old sports cars are cars made a long time ago that are built for speed and handling. They're usually lighter and have smaller engines, which makes them fun to drive.
Old sports cars typically refer to vehicles designed for performance and agility, often characterized by lightweight construction and small engines. These cars are appreciated for their driving dynamics and connection to the road.
Chevrolet Camaro
"Like if you think about something like a Camaro ZL1 manual, like 650 pound-feet of torque, and you shift it with that much torque,"
The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is a fast sports car that is part of the Camaro lineup. It has a very powerful engine that helps it accelerate quickly and gives it a strong performance on the road.
The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is a high-performance variant of the Camaro, known for its powerful engine and sporty handling. It features a supercharged V8 engine that delivers impressive torque and acceleration, making it a favorite among muscle car enthusiasts.
pound-feet of torque
"...like 650 pound-feet of torque, and you shift it with that much torque,"
Pound-feet of torque is a way to measure how much force an engine can produce to turn things, like the wheels. More torque means the car can accelerate faster and pull heavier loads.
Pound-feet of torque is a measurement of rotational force, commonly used to describe the power output of an engine. Higher torque values indicate greater pulling power, which is especially important for acceleration and towing capacity.
Tesla Semi
"...r driven on this podcast was the Nikolai hydrogen semi truck. Totally legal."
The Tesla Semi is a big electric truck made for transporting goods. It's designed to be better for the environment and cheaper to run than traditional diesel trucks.
The Tesla Semi is an all-electric truck designed for freight transport, showcasing Tesla's commitment to sustainable energy in the commercial vehicle sector. With impressive range and performance, it aims to revolutionize the trucking industry by reducing emissions and operating costs.
Lexus NX450
"...you arrive at the NX450 battery..."
The Lexus NX450 is a type of luxury SUV that uses both gas and electric power to drive, making it more efficient. It's designed to be comfortable and has many high-tech features.
The Lexus NX450 is a hybrid SUV that combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. It is part of Lexus's lineup of luxury vehicles, known for their comfort and advanced technology features.
Lexus SC400
"...why not like, you know, SC400 or SC400?"
The Lexus SC400 is a stylish two-door car from the 1990s that has a strong V8 engine. It's designed to be both fast and comfortable to drive.
The Lexus SC400 is a luxury coupe that was produced in the 1990s, known for its powerful V8 engine and refined styling. It represents a blend of performance and comfort typical of Lexus vehicles.
Lexus SC300
"...SC300, yes, right?"
The Lexus SC300 is a two-door car similar to the SC400 but has a smaller engine. It's also made to be comfortable and stylish.
The Lexus SC300 is a luxury coupe that shares many components with the SC400 but features a smaller inline-six engine. It is known for its smooth ride and elegant design.
Ferrari 488
"So we recorded audio from a real 488 engine and we used a sound generation to include like obviously vibration and everything as well."
The Ferrari 488 is a high-performance sports car made by Ferrari. It has a powerful engine and is designed for speed and agility, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
The Ferrari 488 is a mid-engine sports car known for its powerful turbocharged V8 engine and exceptional performance. It combines advanced aerodynamics with cutting-edge technology to deliver a thrilling driving experience.
Toyota GR86
"And then you have it connected to just a standard GR86."
The Toyota GR86 is a small sports car that is fun to drive and has a rear-wheel-drive system, which means the back wheels get the power from the engine.
The Toyota GR86 is a compact sports car known for its lightweight design and rear-wheel-drive layout, making it popular among driving enthusiasts.
Lexus RZ
"...how many, like one pure BEV on sale in the U.S. Just the RZ."
The Lexus RZ is an electric car made by Lexus. It's one of their new models that runs only on electricity, which is better for the environment compared to traditional gas cars.
The Lexus RZ is a fully electric vehicle (BEV) from Lexus, representing the brand's commitment to electric mobility. It is part of Lexus's strategy to expand its electric vehicle lineup in response to growing consumer demand for sustainable transportation.
Hyundai Ioniq
"And with the Hyundai Ioniq 5N"
The Hyundai Ioniq 5N is a sportier version of the Ioniq 5, which is an electric SUV. It's designed for people who want a fun driving experience while still being eco-friendly.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5N is a high-performance variant of the Ioniq 5, an electric crossover SUV. It features enhanced performance and sporty design elements, aimed at enthusiasts looking for an electric vehicle with a dynamic driving experience.
Porsche 928S
"...but now we know what to do with automatic Porsche 928s"
The Porsche 928 is a type of sports car made by Porsche that was built from 1978 to 1995. It has a powerful engine in the front and is designed for both speed and comfort.
The Porsche 928 is a grand tourer produced by Porsche from 1978 to 1995. It was notable for its front-engine layout and was designed to combine the performance of a sports car with the comfort of a luxury vehicle.
Toyota Camry
"Like forerunner Reset the Camry Camry"
The Toyota Camry is a medium-sized car that many people choose because it's comfortable and lasts a long time. It's a good option for families and people who drive a lot.
The Toyota Camry is a midsize sedan that has gained a reputation for its comfort, reliability, and strong resale value. It often ranks highly in safety and is a favorite among families and commuters alike.
Toyota Alphard
"Driving Not Alphard He loves Alphard"
The Toyota Alphard is a fancy minivan that has a lot of room inside and nice features. It's great for families or anyone who wants to travel in comfort.
The Toyota Alphard is a luxury minivan that is popular in markets like Japan and Southeast Asia. Known for its spacious interior and high-end features, it caters to families and businesses looking for comfort and style.
Lexus Lm
"That's the one van I really like Lexus LM LM"
The Lexus LM is a really nice minivan that is designed to be super comfortable and luxurious. It's perfect for people who want a fancy ride with lots of space.
The Lexus LM is a luxury minivan that combines high-end features with spacious seating, aimed at providing a premium travel experience. It is particularly popular among those who prioritize comfort and style in a family vehicle or for business use.
Buick Century
"It'd be nice to see driving over here I saw the Century SUV Century"
The Buick Century is a larger car that is known for being very comfortable to drive. It's a good choice for people who want a smooth ride and plenty of space inside.
The Buick Century is a full-size car that was produced for several decades, known for its spacious interior and smooth ride. It has been a popular choice among buyers looking for comfort and reliability in a more traditional vehicle.
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