However, TGMY, based in Osaka, Japan, didn’t stop at just building an electric GT 86: the company also took its prototype to the legendary Suzuka Circuit and set an impressive lap time of 2:57. To put that time into perspective, that’s only around 20 seconds off the pace of a Mazda RX-7 or 30 seconds off the pace of a Porsche Carrera GT supercar.
Making the electric GT 86’s time all the more impressive is the fact that its zero-emission drivetrain has a peak output of just 75 kW (100 horsepower) and 177 pound-feet of torque. Weight has also been increased to 3218 pounds, which represents an increase of roughly 445 pounds over the regular gasoline-fueled GT 86, according to Technologic Vehicles.
The electric motor is matched to a four-speed transmission and is powered by a lithium-polymer battery rated at 37 kWh. This is good for range of 155 miles with moderate driving. Top speed is an impressive 124 mph.
For now, TGMY’s electric GT 86 is just a technology demonstrator. However, the company is continuing development of the vehicle and could eventually offer an electric conversion kit for the GT 86 (and its FR-S and Subaru BRZ twins).
Note, Toyota is also seriously investigating the possibility of launching an electric sports car. The company is currently testing electric powertrains in sports car applications and even has a prototype based on the GT 86’s ancestor, the 2000GT.