Honda Concept CR-Z
Filed under: Concept Cars, Coupes, Honda, Tokyo Motor Show
The theme for Honda’s automobile booth for this year is: “For the endless joy of mobility on our earth”. Based on this theme, Honda will display a variety of advanced environmental technologies that address environmental issues such as a reduction in CO2 emissions, together with the fun of mobility.
Two concept models will make their world premiere at the motor show. The CR-Z is a next-generation lightweight sports car equipped with Honda’s original gas-electric hybrid system which achieves both clean performance and a high level of torque. The PUYO is a fuel cell vehicle which was designed based on out-of-box thinking to provide fun for both the vehicle owner and people around them as well. Also on display will be a model of the i-DTEC next-generation diesel engine, first announced in September at the Frankfurt Motor Show, which delivers both outstanding environmental performance and engine performance characteristics.
CR-Z
‘CR-Z’ stands for ‘Compact Renaissance Zero’-an expression intended to capture the idea of a renaissance in the design of compact cars that begins anew from fundamentals.
This design research model of a lightweight hybrid sports car features advanced technologies that deliver enjoyable driving for all while reducing the vehicle’s environmental footprint.
Exterior design
Designed to be ‘Futuristic and Dynamic’, the CR-Z combines powerful performance in a compact form with a futuristic image. For its frontal view, an over-sized grill with a high-performance look is offset by openings on each side that lighten the overall feel. In the rear, tube-shaped rear combination lamps ensure better rearward visibility. Design details emphasizing the CR-Z’s advanced image include door mirrors that provide high visibility in a stylish form, LED headlights patterned after luminous bodies to convey a sharp impression, and jauntyfin-shaped
Interior design
The key words for the CR-Z’s interior design are ‘Hi-tech and Sporty’. The goal was to create an all-new sporty interior that fuses the liberating feel of airy spaciousness with an advanced interface that brings out the fun of the drive. Mesh material on a simple framework construction is used throughout the interior to convey a light, sophisticated image without being oppressive. In the cockpit, the meter unit conveys the image of advanced technology ensconced in a piece of glass artwork, offering the functionality of immediate recognition while enhancing the driving experience with a futuristic and exhilarating feeling.
2007 Mitsubishi Concept-ZT
Filed under: Auto Show Pictures, Concept Cars, Mitsubishi, Sedans/Saloons, Tokyo Motor Show
Characteristics
By combining a high-powered, fuel-efficient, 2.2-liter clean diesel engine and Twin Clutch SST, and using significant quantities of Green Plastic in the interior, a high level of running and environmental performance is achieved.
In addition to advanced active safety technology, Concept-ZT achieves a high level of passive safety. Features include pre-crash safety; a lane-drift warning system; driving assistance technology, including new all-around multi-monitors and a parking assistance system; and crashworthiness safety technology including a pop-up hood.
Moreover, equipped with the S-AWC system combining front E-LSD (Electric control - Limited Slip Differential), ABS and ASC, based on Mitsubishi Motors’ 4WD electronic control system, the MITSUBISHI Concept-ZT is a premium sedan that possesses dramatically improved driving, environmental and safety performance.
Design
The basic exterior form, simple and flowing with a low center of gravity, yields a sense of stability and sportiness fitting Mitsubishi Motors’ premier sedan This base is combined with a powerful shoulder line, substantial side panels and projecting fenders. Sculptured headlights, grill and aluminum wheels proclaim quality and status created out of “Japanese” sensitivity — a sophisticated and adult sensibility.
In the interior, the goal was a level of “hospitality” that would resonate with all the senses of the occupants. Combinations of designs with clear contrasts — simple forms with overall continuity gently embrace passengers and precise, hard functional parts — express the melding of quality, comfort and the pleasure of driving. Meters and monitors are of clear materials, futuristically stacked, with the beauty of industrial art.
Minute quantities of a new reflective material add elegance to the body color. In combination with decorative parts, including wheels and grill, a radiant presence is realized with a sense of quality and refinement, like jeweled layers of precious metals. Interior colors are a combination of grained black wood, metal and leather, making maximum use of materials expressing boldness, sophistication and grace.
Powertrain/S-AWC
The concept’s powerplant is a newly developed 2.2-liter 4-cylinder DOHC, 16-valve with VD (Variable Diffuser)/VG (Variable Geometry) clean turbodiesel engine with common-rail direct fuel injection (piezoelectric injector) that delivers a maximum output of 140 kW and maximum torque of 400 Nm.
The power unit is mated to Mitsubishi’s new Twin Clutch SST, which delivers superior power transmission efficiency in a powertrain that realizes smooth, responsive, effortless power and acceleration, whether on the highway or in urban areas, together with good fuel economy. The S-AWC system combines front E-LSD (Electric control
Limited Slip Differential), ABS and ASC with the 4WD electronic control system also used in Outlander and Delica D:5. This optimally controls driving force, traction and braking at all four wheels, and provides stable driving on various road surfaces under various conditions, realizing a pleasurable and safe driving experience.
Body Structure
As in the i MiEV SPORT, the aluminum space frame structure combines aluminum extrusion and aluminum die casting, not only realizing a body of great strength and rigidity, but contributing to weight reduction and crashworthiness. In addition, for the outer panels of hoods, fenders, doors and trunk lids, shock-resistant, recyclable resin is used, as seen on the front fender of the Delica D:5.
Safety Technology/Driving Assistance Technology
Pre-crash Safety System: Using millimeter-length radar waves, the system detects cars far ahead as well as obstacles in the adjacent lane. When it determines that objects near the car are too close and there is danger of a collision, it warns the driver to take action. If the system determines that the possibility of a collision is nevertheless quite high, it pretensions seat belts and activates crash-restraint seat cushions to increase passenger restraint, and initiates emergency braking to reduce the impact of an imminent collision.
Lane-Drift Warning System: The system consists of a front camera, steering angle sensor, speed sensor, yaw rate sensor and ECU. The front camera recognizes lane markings (white lines, etc.), and the system, based on information from the other sensors, calculates the possibility of the vehicle drifting out of its lane, warns the driver, and adds steering torque in the direction such that the car stays within the lane.
Pop-Up Hood: If the car should hit a pedestrian, the hood pops up before the person’s head strikes the hood, acting as a buffer and minimizing injury to the head.
New All-Around Multi-Monitors: In addition to a nose-view camera and a rear-view camera, cameras with extremely wide-angle lenses are positioned at the left and right sides. Optical distortions of the images from the four cameras are corrected, and the information is converted into a display of the situation all around the car as seen from the top — thus enabling clear confirmation by the driver. The nose camera is also part of the proximity-detection function for approaching objects.
Parking Assistance System: A distance sensor, embedded in the bumper, assesses the space available for parking. If parking is possible, the system will automatically maneuver the wheels (steering) while all the driver must do is control braking.
2007 Honda Puyo Concept
Filed under: Auto Show Pictures, Concept Cars, Honda, Tokyo Motor Show
The theme for Honda’s automobile booth for this year is: “For the endless joy of mobility on our earth”. Based on this theme, Honda will display a variety of advanced environmental technologies that address environmental issues such as a reduction in CO2 emissions, together with the fun of mobility.
A “Next Energy” display will showcase Honda’s latest initiatives in new energy development, including technology for producing bio-ethanol from rice straw and the environmentally responsible next-generation thin-film solar cells, which will go on sale nationwide in Japan.
PUYO
‘PUYO’ is a Japanese onomatopoeia that expresses the sensation of touching the vehicle’s soft body. It is meant to convey a warm, friendly impression.
The PUYO represents a new idea in mobility that brings together ‘clean’, ’safe’ and ‘fun’ functionality in an environmentally responsible, people-friendly minimalist design featuring an ultra-high efficiency, small frame and fuel cell technology to please both users and onlookers alike.
Exterior design
The development theme for the PUYO exterior was to create a cornerless, ‘Seamless Soft Box’ form that is kind to both people and the environment. The goal was to create a personable design with the feel of an adorable pet, while taking advantage of the maximum spaciousness of the box-shaped design. The PUYO’s ‘gel body’ features soft materials to promote greater real-world safety. Moreover, the body has been made luminescent to guide people into the proper operating position and notify them of the vehicle’s condition, facilitating a more intimate relationship between people and their cars.
Interior design
Developed to have a ‘Silky Feel’, the PUYO’s interior is designed to provide a refreshing, people-friendly space imbued with a feeling of transparency. Features such as an instrument panel monitor, controls that take advantage of the elastic qualities of cloth to rise up when the vehicle starts up, luminous fluid meter displays, and a joystick for intuitive operation are all designed to gently support occupants’ senses and sensibilities.
FHI Introduces All-New Subaru Impreza WRX STI
Filed under: Auto Show Pictures, Hatchbacks, Subaru, Tokyo Motor Show
Tokyo, October 24, 2007 – Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, has announced the introduction of its all-new Subaru Impreza WRX STI in Japan. The new WRX STI went onsale nationwide through Subaru dealerships today.
Advancing FHI’s theme of producing the complete driver’s car and embodying the essence of total driving control, the third-generation Impreza WRX STI has debuted with complete makeovers in its design, engine, chassis and features. Benefiting from Subaru’s signature Symmetrical AWD and the Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine, the new WRX STI is an innovative AWD sports model that delivers a combination of joy of driving and pride of ownership.
The new five-door model features not only a greatly refined engine and suspension but new mechanisms such as the multi-mode Driver’s Control Center Differential (DCCD) and multi-mode Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC). Also, the Subaru Dynamic Chassis Control Concept (Subaru DC3) has been further developed for the WRX STI in order to maximize performance and driving pleasure and to ensure high levels of driver satisfaction through total control of the vehicle.
The vehicle’s interior and exterior design expresses sophistication and refined functionality. The widened body flares give an irresistible presence, integrating function and beauty, while the interior design stresses high quality and a sporty image. In addition, the Impreza WRX STI features advancements in the areas of environment, safety, and comfort, all of which match FHI’s goal of delivering exceptional performance and enjoyable and dependable drivability with environmental considerations in all Subarus.
The first-generation WRX STI model was based on the first Impreza WRX and was developed by Subaru Tecnica International (STI), an FHI subsidiary specialized in motorsports activities. Since its introduction in 1994, the WRX STI has established a solid reputation as a high-performance sports model. In the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) that requires participants to compete with production-based models, Subaru WRX STI models have proven their credentials by bringing Subaru three consecutive Manufacturers’ championship titles from 1995 to 1997. In this context, FHI plans to submit a Group N homologation application effective as of January 1, 2008 for the new WRX STI to FIA.
The introduction of the new WRX STI has completed the full lineup of the Impreza series in Japan. The Impreza 15S, 20S and S-GT models have been available since June 2007, each offering individual strengths in performance and comfort.
1. Design
[Exterior design]
Styled around the concept of “Pure Form for Driving”, the widened body flares accentuate the 5-door body taken from the new Impreza. A deep-set character line, running along the side from the front bumper to the rear end, and a pronounced edge shape reflects light and shadows and gives the car a different look depending on the time of day. While retaining a consistent flow from front to rear bumper, the front and back fenders are prominently projected, creating a distinctive identity and gives the WRX a unique road presence. Aerodynamically improved body styling with a large rear spoiler optimizes the balance between the front and the rear quarter panels by reducing wind resistance. An aerodynamically curved form from the front bumper to the front fenders helps minimize lift forces and contributes to maintaining vehicle stability at high speeds. Engine compartment ventilation is provided on both sides of the front bumper and along the rear edges of the fenders.
The strong front grille employs a sharp wing shape with metallic mesh, suggesting the car’s inherent sportiness. The rear garnish is painted in the body color, enhancing the widened body shape. The rear edges of the front fenders are embellished with STI logo plated in cherry red.
The muffler comes with twin dual-tail pipes. Eye-catching 18-inch aluminum-cast wheels, distinguished by their five spokes and highlighted by dark-tone high-luster paint, are standard. These wheels enhance the vehicle’s bold and commanding presence while expressing high quality and streamlined beauty. BBS-brand cast wheels with spokes and sharp lines are also available as an option.
Seven exterior colors are available: Obsidian black pearl; pure white; spark sliver metallic; dark gray metallic; lightning red; midnight blue pearl (only for the WRX STI); WR blue mica.
[Interior design]
The interior is finished in black and silver to highlight its streamlined design, as well as to create an impression of elegance and sportiness. Dynamic designs with decorative insets in the center panels and door trim express roominess in the cabin. The vehicle information display, which constantly shows outside temperature, average mileage and time, as well as a navigation screen and audio display, are placed nearer the top of the dashboard for improved visibility and functionality.
The front bucket seats use a combination of Alcantara fabric and leather and are designed to offer easy access into and out of the vehicle and to hold the driver and passenger in comfortably and securely. Jointly developed by RECARO, custom bucket seats are also available as a manufacturer’s option. The RECARO seats offer fuller side support and excel in maintaining a comfortable position for sporty driving. Their height adjustment enables the further lowering of the hip point setting in the seats.
Power tilt and telescopic steering comes with a three-spoke genuine leather wheel embossed with the STI logo in its center. The instrument panel combines three meters, a tachometer between a speedometer and fuel gauge, in a single module illuminated in red. Each meter’s dial is colored cherry red, the STI brand color, emphasizing a quality feel and sportiness. When the ignition key is turned on, the needles of the three meters swing up to their maximums and quickly fall back to their original positions, imparting a boost of excitement for the driver. The meter module also comes with a REV Indicator, DCCD Torque Indicator, and Shift-up Indicator. In addition, red LED lights are used for interior door step lights, and they are also provided for the console tray. The center console is embellished with the STI logo, which illuminates when the car’s headlights are on.
2. Packaging
An extended wheelbase and widened track provide optimal dimensions for the new model to ensure its outstanding driving stability and straight-line maneuverability. (The wheelbase is wider by 85 mm, the front track is 40 mm wider, and the rear track is 45 mm wider, than the previous model.) The 5-door body style excels in balancing lift forces in the front and desirable downward forces in the rear, achieving optimal aerodynamic characteristics.
Shortening of the front and rear overhangs has reduced yaw moments of inertia, and enabled highly stable handling, while interior roominess has been preserved. The body structure has been enhanced for improved performance and upgraded specifications. However, the gross weight has remained nearly the same as in the previous model through streamlined body construction.
3. Powertrain
[2.0-litre turbo Boxer engine]
An electronically controlled throttle enables finely adjusted control of the 2.0-litre turbo Boxer engine and ensures acceleration that is linearly responsive to pedal movement. The Dual Active Valve Control System (Dual AVCS) hydraulically controls timing in both the intake and exhaust valves, which helps improve low-end torque while providing a strong power boost at high rotations. Dual AVCS also increases combustion efficiency, thereby reducing exhaust emissions. Changes made in the intake and exhaust ports promote smoother air in- and outflow, contribute to enhancing power output, and improve combustion efficiency, which reduces emissions and improves fuel mileage. In addition, changes in the shape of the turbocharger compressor have increased the efficiency of the air intake and enabled more responsive and smoother acceleration.
Also, the layout of the exhaust pipes greatly facilitate overall air outflow by canceling interference and increasing airflow between the exhaust port and the turbo charger to deliver optimal torque and engine response at various speeds.
A tumble generated valve (TGV) has been installed in the intake manifold, boosting combustion efficiency by controlling the intake flow. It improves efficiency particularly at the time of engine ignition. Also adopted is a secondary air system that forces air into the exhaust port to burn out any gasoline remaining in it. The system helps eliminate harmful substances when the powertrain is still cool, and it promotes early activation of a catalytic converter.
The muffler is placed horizontally, which lowers resistance in the exhaust flow, results in improved noise cancellation, and contributes to smooth power output.
[Transmission]
A 6-speed manual transmission, Subaru’s own development, has been further perfected for faster, more accurate and responsive shifts. Friction is substantially reduced through the adoption of a triple-cone synchromesh in the first gear and design changes in the shift sleeves.
4. Drivetrain
The front differential gear adopts a torque-sensitive LSD (limited slip differential) that excels in response to input torque; the rear differential employs the Torsen LSD that supports distribution of torque. The SI (SUBARU Intelligent)-Drive system offers three different modes of driving for the driver to enjoy: Intelligent; Sport; and Sport Sharp. For example, when a driver continues to heavily depress the accelerator pedal in the Intelligent mode, engine output is automatically boosted to the level of maximum torque. The multi-mode Driver’s Control Center Differential (DCCD) enables the driver to choose from different modes of control for the center differential. This feature allows the driver to enjoy handling and maneuvering as he desires, and it provides high levels of vehicle straight-line stability unique to the AWD configuration. The multi-mode Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) also provides three different modes that the driver can choose from to experience a wider range of driving enjoyment, while always maintaining the safety features
of VDC.
[Multi-mode DCCD]
AUTO mode: The standard mode automatically controls the differentials under all kinds of driving conditions.
AUTO [+] mode: This mode is suited for driving on slippery or icy roads, which requires higher levels of road traction, achieved by elevating differential control.
AUTO [-] mode: This mode enables agile driving whereby the vehicle responds swiftly to steering by the driver.
MANUAL mode: This mode allows the driver to control the center differential manually.
[Multi-mode VDC]
NORMAL mode: The standard mode controls ABS, TCS and VDC.
TRACTION mode: Adjusting both TCS and VDC, this mode extends the time period until the VDC kicks in. This mode is suited for sporty driving as it does not control torque-lowering in the engine.
OFF mode: This mode only controls ABS. It is used in emergencies like getting the vehicle out of deep snow or mud.
*Though the multi-mode VDC is the vehicle stability control device that offers a superior function, it is a driving assist system.
5. Chassis
The WRX STI boasts a state-of-the-art chassis design that reflects the Subaru DC3. Equipped with a strut-type front suspension and the newly designed double-wishbone rear suspension, and combined with its widened track, this model achieves outstanding cornering stability. Optimized suspension geometry settings with adjusted camber angles have made substantial improvements in road-hugging traction and riding comfort. Aluminum cast lower arms and a stabilizer bar in the front suspension help raise torsional and rolling rigidity, providing accurate response in steering. In the rear suspension, suspension links are attached
to the body through the sub-frame, which enhances riding comfort and further lowers noise levels. The Boxer engine is mounted lower on the chassis, further advancing vehicle stability already ensured by its low center of gravity: 22 mm lower at the front end of the engine, compared to the previous model.
The Brembo-made ventilated disk brake system employs an ultra-low expansion brake hose and tie rods for the brake booster. The brake system, coupled with the SuperSports ABS (antilock brake system) with EBD (electronic brake distribution), processes information fed from the G sensor, steering angle sensor, yaw rate sensor, and pressure sensor to deliver steady braking and control. It also works with the DCCD to ensure accurate braking on all four wheels independently, while minimizing deviations from the driver’s intended path. Bridgestone RE050A (245/40R18) tires are standard.
The hill-start assist function maintains the braking function one second after the brake pedal is released incase of starting a car on a hilly road.
6. Body construction
The WRX STI uses an advanced form of Subaru’s legendary and proprietary Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame Body Structure, reinforcing each pillar with frames that circle around the body in a ring shape. Reinforcements are now provided to connect firmly between the lower part of the front pillar and upper frames, increasing the strength of the strut attachment onto the body frame. Reinforcements are also added to the upper part of the opening of the rear gate.
7. Safety
Advancing the Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame Body Structure, the new WRX STI has realized high levels of safety and crash worthiness through effectively absorbing and dispersing crash impact in frontal, side, or rear impact crashes. The hood, for example, is specifically designed to disperse frontal impact. The new model boasts low-impact features for pedestrians and other vehicles in collisions. All models are equipped with dual SRS airbags, side SRS airbags and curtain airbags, as well as 3-point seat belts in the rear seats. A collapsible brake pedal is available on all models to reduce the risk of foot injuries in accidents.
8. Environmental friendly features
The new model achieved an additional 50% reduction in emissions from the levels of the 2005 exhaust emission regulations set forth by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport. This was accomplished primarily owing to reduced weight and performance improvements.
Nissan GT-R Debuts at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show
Filed under: Auto Show Pictures, Nissan, Sports/GT, Tokyo Motor Show
TOKYO (Oct. 24, 2007) - Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., today announced the launch of the Nissan GT-R, a new multi-dimensional performance machine that lives up to the concept of “an ultimate supercar for anyone, anywhere, at anytime”. The Nissan GT-R features a newly developed Premium Midship package, including the world’s first independent transaxle 4WD developed independently by Nissan. The Nissan GT-R will be available in Japan mainly through Nissan High Performance Centers nationwide from December 6th.
The all-new Nissan GT-R uses a Premium Midship package, an all-new, more advanced version Front Midship (FM) package utilized on other Nissan vehicles. This new package enables the use of the world’s first application of an independent transaxle 4WD system. The transaxle’s layout places the dual-clutch transmission, transfer case and final drive at the rear of the vehicle (instead of the usual front location), which enables vehicle weight to be evenly distributed throughout the car. This gives the Nissan GT-R a superb front-to-rear weight balance, while enhancing leg and foot space and allowing for an optimal pedal layout.
The all-new GT-R’s body is created with a combination of steel, carbon fiber and aluminum, providing a unique combination of stiffness and lightness. The Nissan GT-R features a low coefficient of drag of 0.27, with high front and rear downforce, which provides the GT-R with enhanced grip in all weather situations, while also enhancing fuel efficiency.
Under the hood, the Nissan GT-R features an all-new 3.8-litre twin turbo V6 “VR38” engine, featuring plasma-sprayed bores and a special twin-turbo exhaust manifold system. A secondary air management system enables the newly designed powerplant to provide approximately 40kg/m of torque during ordinary low-rev driving, which gives an optimum air-fuel ratio for around-town efficiency and helps the Nissan GT-R meet ultra-low emission vehicle (U-LEV) standards in Japan.
The Nissan GT-R’s new engine produces 480PS (353kW) at 6400rpm and maximum torque of 60kgm (588Nm) from 3200 to 5200rpm. Putting the power to the ground is an all-new GR6-type dual clutch transmission, with paddle shifting and a Borg Warner six-plate dual clutch for direct control.
Suspension duties are handled through a special Bilstein DampTronic*1 system, which utilizes all pertinent vehicle information to provide appropriate damping forces for all situations and helps maintain a high level of control for straight-line driving, cornering, and braking. Adjustability is central to the daily-driver nature of the Nissan GT-R, with a special “set-up switch” located in the center of the instrument panel. This switch enables the driver to adjust transmission shifts, shock absorbers and the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC-R) in three settings – Normal, Comfort or R, the high-performance setting designed for the Nissan GT-R “supercar” application.
Braking is essential for a daily-driven supercar and the GT-R features large Brembo full-floating drilled rotors, low steel high stiffness brake pads and Brembo mono block six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers, which in combination minimize fade and provide stable braking. Run-flat tires, exclusively designed for use on the Nissan GT-R, balance high grip and all-weather capabilities and a comfortable ride in all driving situations. The tires are designed to maintain structure for 80km of travel at 80 km/h, while still providing an acceptable level of performance.
A high-speed, high-capacity CARWINGS (Japan market) navigation system, with a powerful 30GB hard disk drive, features an easy-to-use touch pad, as well as traditional navigation switches. The screen interface features not only the navigation system, but also an enriched entertainment system with a Music Box hard drive, DVD and CD player, and Bluetooth® *2 audio function.
For special use in the GT-R application, the multi-function meter also includes mechanical and driving information for safe high performance driving, including acceleration opening, brake pedal pressure, and steering angle. It also includes an “optimal gearshift map,” to emphasize economical vehicle operation.
A specially designed BOSE sound system includes two forward-facing woofers in the rear center armrest area combined with traditional door speakers. All speakers are mounted in rigid aluminum die cast panels, which combined with the design of the system itself, provide sound quality suitable for a supercar.
*1: Bilstein DampTronic is the registered trademark of ThyssenKrupp Bilstein Suspension GmbH
*2: Bluetooth® and the Bluetooth logo are trademarks of Bluetooth SIG Inc. of the U.S.
