Automotive Intelligence - the web for automotive professionals and car enthusiasts

.

Web autointell.com

October 17, 2007

This Week:

• Mercedes is First to Bring Diesel Back to California

• Nissan QASHQAI Travels Length of UK on a Tank of Fuel

• MINI Presents The MINI CLUBMAN At The 40TH TOKYO MOTOR SHOW

• Daihatsu to Exhibit four concepts at Tokyo Motor Show  

• Living smart: smart bolsters market launch in the US with a unique concept in L.A.

• 2008 BMW ALPINA B7 - The Exclusive Ultra-Performance Luxury Sedan

• Toyota Announces New Leadership at Lexus, Scion

• New GPS Technology Makes Auto Theft Virtually Impossible

• Volkswagen Group in China targeting 900,000 vehicles in 2007

• The New Impreza WRX STI Will Debut at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show

© 1998 - 2007 Copyright &
Disclaimer
Automotive Intelligence,
www.autointell.com
All Rights Reserved .
For questions please contact
editor@autointell.net

Concept cars

1. OFC-1 (Open Future Concept-1)

Combining real driving exhilaration with the freedom to enjoy an open-air feeling regardless of the weather, tomorrow's open sports mini vehicle goes all the way for small car fun. A powered canopy top with glass roof offers a panoramic view even when the roof is closed. The glass roof has a built-in LCD sunshade that can be switched between transparent and opaque at a touch. The functionally beautiful instrument panel and high-contrast interior color scheme create a sporty image that is advanced and refined. The roof's 3-segment construction stores compactly, leaving trunk space for the overnight luggage of two adults, even when the top is open. For exhilarating driving and excellent fuel economy, the OSC-1 powertrain combines a smoothly responsive engine and CVT equipped with 7-speed paddle shifters. It also features an electronically controlled suspension and 17-inch aluminum sports wheels.

2. MUD MASTER-C (Mud Master-Concept)

This small, tough transporter leverages compactness and light weight for special off-road agility and adopts body-on-frame construction for outstanding durability and cargo capability. This mountain bike support model was designed in collaboration with the leading professional cyclist, Raita Suzuki.

A hub reduction system, which transfers driving power via gears mounted between the drive shaft and wheel hub, together with large-diameter 16-inch off-road tires, achieves 370mm ride height and generous angles of approach, departure and breakover for outstanding off-road drivability and stream-fording capability. The body uses highly durable, lightweight and compact body-on-frame construction. A range of attachments can be combined for a variety of applications, from outdoor sports to work in rough terrain. Large gullwing doors on three sides give the MUD MASTER-C great convenience, ideal for loading and unloading bicycles in the "mountain bike support" model. The interior features a simple instrument panel with large-screen LCD multi-display and the water-repellent seats, reflecting the car's rugged image.

3. HSC (Heart & Smile Concept)

A fresh proposal for a people-friendly, earth-friendly small car, the "Heart & Smile Concept" seeks environmental friendliness using realistic technologies, while seating four adults in comfort. The package also emphasizes high safety performance and convenience.

Center-pillarless construction and center-opening doors create a wide entrance and the doorframe is continuous with the flat floor, making it easy for anyone to get in and out. A practical powertrain attains 33km/L fuel economy, thanks to engine improvements, including reduced friction and raised combustion efficiency, along with a CVT with low mechanical loss and an idling-stop system, as well as an aerodynamic design with Cd of 0.28*.

High-level safety results from the use of a straight frame having high energy absorption characteristics and light weight, along with side and back guide monitors. Easily accommodates four adults, while attaining outstanding aerodynamic characteristics. Four individual seats provide interior comfort.

*Fuel efficiency in the 10-15 Japanese test cycle. Daihatsu test data.

4. New Tanto & New Tanto CUSTOM [Planned production models]

A further evolution of the Tanto and Tanto CUSTOM, which pioneered a new mini vehicle genre with ultra-space efficiency in the category's limited size. They feature mini vehicle class-leading roominess* and the Pillarless Powered Sliding Door, the first** combination of center-pillarless construction and a sliding door in a mini vehicle, which creates a wide entrance that provides easy access for all.

New Tanto

Wider, more convenient and more fun, a breathtaking package the whole family will love. Impressive roominess and user-friendly interior design. Family-friendly utility with a room-like atmosphere, thanks to the world's first wood-grain "flooring" in a mini vehicle.

New Tanto CUSTOM

A substantial, vigorous presence, based on the concept of a "gorgeous, great cruiser", with class-leading roominess. The exterior design creates a stable, solid attitude of impressively powerful individuality. The sophisticated, premium cabin's cruiser feel generates a gorgeous, romantic atmosphere.

5. New Tanto WELCOME SEAT [Concept car]

A new proposal for a barrier-free mini vehicle that exploits the barrier-free potential of the new Tanto. A comfortable posture can be maintained for boarding/deboarding via the passenger seat lift, thanks to the new Tanto's spacious interior and the wide entrance created by its Pillarless Powered Sliding Door and the front door's ability to open about 90 degrees. The front passenger seat lift can slide to the rear to open up generous foot room. The seatbelt can be secured and released outside the vehicle to keep seating posture steady while boarding and deboarding via the passenger seat lift.

Photos: Daihatsu

(12th October, 2007)