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Toyota will be not only be going mean and green, but also lean and green at the Tokyo show at the end of October.

Due to debut on their stand is the FT-EV II, a compact electric vehicle designed for short distance travel.

Its design and technology visualize a future society where electric cars will be in common use and tailored for user needs, the type of energy used and local energy supply infrastructure.

The FT-EV is designed primarily for urban driving. Toyota says it is "even more compact" than its iQ model, but still has room for four seats.

All vehicle functions are controlled using a joystick and drive-by-wire technology. That includes the accelerator, brakes and steering. Toyota says that it did this so that the throttle and brake pedals could be removed to create more legroom for a four-seat design.

From the outside a low bonnet and additional window below the level of the windscreen provide greater forward visibility. There are electric sliding doors on both sides so that the car is easy to access in tight spots.

Toyota claims it will attain a top speed "above 100km/h" and a full-charged battery will give a range of more than 80km. "Ample for most urban journeys," Toyota says.

The car also promises a quiet and comfortable ride with smooth acceleration.

(The 41st Tokyo motor show will run from 24 October to 4 November)

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