The picture of KTM 990 Supermoto 2008 Motorcycle
MAZDA RYUGA CONCEPT
MAZDA RYUGA CONCEPT: AN EVOLVED ZOOM-ZOOM
RYUGA ( ree-yoo-ga=Japanese for gracious flow )
RYUGA ( ree-yoo-ga=Japanese for gracious flow )
The large wheels placed at the far corners of Ryuga's exterior lend a highly stable, balanced stance. The aggressive wedge shape imparts motion even when this sports coupe is parked. Volumes that are small in front, larger at the rear, wrap around and over the wheels to give the exterior tension and direction.
Conducting a guided tour of the exterior, Nakamuta points out several key features:
* Ryuga's side surfaces were inspired by karesansui (Japanese dry gardens). The carefully raked pebbles in these garden s represent peaceful ripples caused by a breeze over a pool of water. The karesansui's man-made image of natural flow is represented in the Ryuga's surface texture to express simplicity and refinement.
* The headlamp shape resembles the flow of morning dew dropping from bamboo leaves. Advanced LED and fluorescent tube technology will enable such a striking design to be used on a production vehicle in the foreseeable future.
* To impart motion, the 21-inch wheel spokes - different on the left and right sides - are slightly twisted as if they're delivering torque. To convey the feeling of gas turbine blades, the trailing edges of the wheel spokes are accented with a tinge of body color.
* Flowing lava inspired both Ryuga's exterior hue and the tail lamp design. Depending on the incident light, Ryuga's surface appears to be shades of yellow, red, and blue, exactly like molten, flowing lava. Notes van den Acker: "The hot red finish goes straight to your heart."
* The roof molding tightens up the flowing cabin and gives an accent to the body styling as well. Cameras located at the forward end of each molding convey rear views to a center cockpit display screen. Turn signals are also integrated into these protruding accents.Reflecting its Japanese origin, Ryuga is both simple and complex. While the dominant flow theme is simple, the details - such as the side surfaces and the wheels - are intricate. Solidity and fluidity live here together, in harmony.
FLOW THROUGH INTERIORThe Ryuga is significantly shorter and lower than today's four-passenger RX-8 sports car, it too accommodates four passengers in roomy comfort. A relatively long (110.2-inch) wheelbase and two large gull-wing doors provide a wide-open invitation to the interior.The doors rise to expose the interior of Ryuga and allow easy slide-in access, the passengers are presented with the fusion of a cockpit - designed to maximize the emotional connection between the car and driver - with the social atmosphere of the rear passenger space, where lounge-like comfort is ensured through expansive space and Nagare-inspired design.
The front bucket seats provide ample lateral support for energetic driving with the shape of the seats creating an impression of movement which is further emphasized by the patterns in the material.The experimental 'floating' center cluster allows a high level of interface between the driver and the multi-function touch panel without having to take one's eyes off the road ahead. Information necessary for safe and dynamic driving is available to the driver with RPM and speed (which is shown in both analog and digital format s ) being displayed on the same axis.
Flowing upwards, the center cluster dynamically penetrates the front information panel which reflects Zoom-Zoom futuristic and sporty design craftsmanship, as well as an integrated interface between man and machine. Elongated pods give the cockpit depth while bringing information closer to the driver's eyes. An open-top steering wheel provides enhanced sight lines to the instruments and the road ahead .
DRIVING PERFORMANCE - ENVIRONMENT AND SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES TO SUPPORT ZOOM-ZOOM
The part of the initiatives, an E85/Gasoline FLEX FUEL engine which runs on sustainable bio fuel could be used in Ryuga. This engine delivers torque and power, balancing driving and environmental performance. Other important features that will support safe driving are the Charge-Coupled Device (CCD) cameras installed for the rear monitoring system and the blind-spot monitoring system. These help ensure safe driving while changing lanes and allow easy identification of potential obstacles. Mazda is working on various technologies to deliver Zoom-Zoom driving in the future, including earth-friendly environmental technologies and people-friendly safety technologies.To ensure the car provides a Zoom-Zoom driving experience, which is the basis behind all the other features, an open top steering wheel is employed with highly sensitive settings to respond to the driver's smallest input. The car also features steer-by-wire technology and gauges that deliver superbly clear information to the driver. The dramatic wheels with TOYO PROXES 245/35R-21 tires complete the driving experience, and the sophisticated original tread pattern perfectly suits the Ryuga's design concept.
Suzuki SXForce Concept
Suzuki SXForce Concept
Suzuki SXForce Concept is one of the latest additions to Suzuki's media-acclaimed Suzuki LIVE Series - a line of brand-dedicated concept vehicles specially designed for life enthusiasts, adventurers and thrill-seekers.
Reinforcing the link between the company's rich motorcycle heritage and versatile line of fun-to-drive automobiles, the Suzuki SXForce is a sportbike-inspired concept based on all-new 2008 SX4 Sport. Designed and built by Road Race Motorsports of Santa Fe Springs, Calif., the SXForce boasts a powerful 250-horsepower, 2.0-liter, turbocharged engine matched to a five-speed manual transmission.
The exterior shell of the SX4 Sport has been modified to be eye-catching to both four-wheel and two-wheel enthusiasts. It features a striking blend of carbon fiber, Flash Pearl White and Orange Metallic paint and showcases a number of performance-based automotive parts and stunning motorcycle accents, including sportbike-style side rearview mirrors and dual exhaust, also found on the championship-winning GSX-R1000.
While the Suzuki SXForce Concept is sure to be a showstopper on display, it was designed to look even better on the road. This fully drivable, track-tested SX4 Sport concept receives several performance enhancements, including a fully tuned performance suspension system, F1-style outlet gills to help underhood air flow, tailored rear bodywork with carbon fiber diffuser, Carbontrix rear wing, Tein coilover suspension height and damper setup, and reinforced structure to further enhance rigidity for optimal handling. The Suzuki SXForce is outfitted with 18-inch Enkei racing wheels and a staggered high-performance Toyo T1-R tire package - 225/45-18 in the front and 235/40-18 in the rear. It also is equipped with Rotora six-piston calipers with two-piece 355mm rotors for sportbike stopping power.
The motorcycle theme continues inside the Suzuki SXForce Concept, beginning with suede and leather seats and interior appointments, mimicking sportbike leathers. Other interior enhancements include motorcycle instrument cluster and controls, roof air intake for optimal breathing and a revised track-themed interior featuring carbon fiber components and accents. Engine vitals are monitored via a Zeitronix ZT-2 wideband data logger and all vital engine parameters are logged on a laptop and viewed on the ZT-2 gauge mounted on the Hayabusa handlebars. The Suzuki SXForce is equipped with an integrated Garmin navigation system, and its rear seats have been removed and replaced by a high-output Rockford Fosgate audio system.
Mitsubishi i MiEV Concept
Mitsubishi i MiEV Concept
Based on the i MiEV, the i MiEV SPORT enhances the "driving" image of Mitsubishi's electric vehicles. The car features Mitsubishi Motors' unique in-wheel motors in the front plus S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) � the company's vehicle dynamics control system � to achieve high maneuverability as well as high levels of both environmental and running performance.
The car brings a new closeness between people and cars; allowing them to become more a part of daily life.
Design
The "fastback" exterior design expresses the quickness of the car with an appearance that is pleasing and lively. An efficient, environmentally friendly electric vehicle thanks to its compact size, it also possesses exceptionally fluid styling. A simplified interior styling creates a pleasant space, allowing occupants to feel at home. Geometry, metallic materials and body epitomize the futuristic electric vehicle. Interior lighting, too, has been carefully thought out, with the use of many blue LEDs suggestive of nature, creating a sophisticated, cutting-edge atmosphere.
The light green exterior marks another association with nature. The pearlescent paint, which shines when hit with direct light, brings feelings of advanced, futuristic technology and environmental peace of mind. The interior is sporty and dynamic as a result of the substantial use of mesh materials, while the space, with various natural elements, fosters feelings of both security and comfort.
Packaging
Like the i MiEV, i MiEV Sport uses a rear-midship design in its layout. Making use of the relatively long wheelbase of this platform, a high-capacity lithium-ion battery is installed in the lowest area under the floor, and components including a motor and inverter are arranged beneath the luggage compartment. This layout provides optimal distribution of weight, front and rear, and a lower center of gravity for stability, sporty performance, and a spacious interior.
Body Structure
An aluminum space frame � a combination of aluminum extrusions and aluminum die casting � is light, rigid and strong; helping to improving performance by minimizing weight.
The optimum layout of structural members, including front-side and cross members, efficiently absorbs crash energy in the event of front-end or side collision. In a collision from the rear, EV components under the back seat and rear floor serve as a barrier to ensure the integrity of the passenger compartment. By making use of the rear-midship layout and utilizing Mitsubishi's latest RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) body, the concept realizes excellent occupant protection in collisions from any direction, even when colliding with a vehicle of different height or weight.
Powertrain / S-AWC
The system employs a structure consisting of three permanent magnetic synchronous motors. One in-wheel motor is placed at each front wheel; a single motor drives the rear wheels, as is used in the "i MiEV" system. An E-4WD system electronically optimizes the output of all motors. In addition, a new E-AYC (Electric Active Yaw Control) system is employed to directly regulate torque at the left and right rear wheels via an electric motor. In addition to the E-4WD and E-AYC, the S-AWC system integrates ABS and ASC (Active Stability Control) systems, thus independently controlling driving force, traction and braking at all four wheels, for total maneuverability and maximum stability.
Energy Saving Technology/Environmental Technology
Energy-saving environmental considerations are seen throughout the i MiEV SPORT. Effective use of energy is achieved by installing an auxiliary photovoltaic generator on the roof, a power-generating fan inside the front grill, and regenerative braking functions to recover energy when the car is slowing down. Much of the lighting is by bright, power-saving LEDs, including in the rear combination lamps and vehicle interior, and the efficiency of the air conditioning is enhanced by the use of heat-absorbing window glass. In addition, Green Plastic - Mitsubishi Motors' unique plant-based resin technology - is used wherever possible for interior components in another nod to the environment.
Specifications
* Overall length: 3,450 [mm]
* Overall width: 1,600 [mm]
* Overall height: 1,400 [mm]
* Wheelbase: 2,550 [mm]
* Track (F/R): 1,405/1,405 [mm]
* Seating capacity: 2 + 2
* Motors: Permanent magnetic synchronous motors
* Front: In-wheel motors
* Rear: Single motor
* Max. output: Front: 20kW; Rear: 47kW
* Max. torque: Front: 250 Nm; Rear: 180 Nm
* Max. Speed: 180km/h
* Range (10-15 Mode) : 200km
Nissan Denki Cube Concept
The lithium-ion battery-powered Denki Cube electric vehicle concept, which will be on public display at the Nissan exhibit at Jacob Javits Convention Center from March 21 through March 30, was created to draw attention to Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.�s (NML) global environmental efforts. It also serves as a preview of Nissan�s future small car strategy for the North American market, which includes plans to sell a redesigned gasoline-powered, next-generation Cube at Nissan dealers in the United States and Canada beginning in 2009.
The Denki Cube Concept is a fun way to expose American buyers to one of Nissan�s most popular home market cars at a time when fuel economy and packaging efficiency are on a lot of people�s minds. The Denki Cube Concept is boxy yet charming, fashionable and functional, and completely tuned in to today�s needs for enjoyable efficiency.�
About the Denki Cube ConceptIn creating the Denki Cube Concept, the designers started with a well-defined canvas, the current-generation Nissan Cube.The iconic Cube has always been the antithesis of traditional automotive style � square, minimalist, asymmetrical and humble � yet also warm, relaxing, practical and undeniably charming. To this solid foundation, the Denki Cube adds a newEV powertrain and unique exterior and interior treatments.
The Denki Cube Concept�s exterior features fresh front and rear styling treatments, including a new �electric themed� frontgrille design with an AC power charging port, a radical �lightning� headlight design and new bumpers and turn signal lamps.In the rear, the signature Cube asymmetrical rear quarter area (with wraparound glass on one side) has been enhanced by a new bumper with hidden taillights. The roof sheet metal has been replaced with a full fixed glass panel that enhances the interior�s sense of wide-open space. The Denki Cube Concept exterior also features new door mirrors and unique 16-inch wheel covers. The finishing touch is provided by a special white pearl paint and graphics.
Inside, the Denki Cube Concept reflects the designers� intention of creating a relaxing, moving social hub, like a favorite room in an owner�s house. Though the production Cube offers three rows of seating, the Denki CubeConcept offers only two rows and the wheelbase has been stretched 9.4 inches in order to better accommodate the lithium-ion battery cells. The newly designed front and second row seats are joined by a revised instrument panel with an IP-mounted shift button, a special steering wheel design and new door panel and cargo area trim.
The biggest transformation from production Cube to Denki Cube Concept is one that isn�t visible � the replacement of the standard 1.3-liter inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor and laminated lithium-ion batteries located under the floor and seats. The laminated structure and unique material technology offer more power, energy and battery stability, as well as compact size and packaging flexibility, versus conventional cylindrical batteries.
Nissan�s compact lithium-ion battery technology, one of the company�s traditional strengths, provides batteries with twice as much energy compared with a conventional cylindrical battery of the same type and safer operation due to theuse of chemically stable spine-structured manganese for the electrode material. In order to better leverage Nissan�s lithium-ion battery capabilities, a new company, Automotive Energy Supply Corp. (AESC), was jointly established withNEC Corp. and NEC Tokin Corp. � with the goal of dramatically enhancing future battery performance andreducing battery costs. Nissan first had an electric vehicle in the road in 1947 and has been field-testing lithium-ion batteries for more than ten years.About Nissan Green Program 2010Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.�s (NML) mid-term environmental action plan, Nissan Green Program 2010 (NGP 2010), is designed to fulfill Nissan�s environmental philosophy of �symbiosis of people, vehicles and nature� and contribute to a sustainable mobile society. NGP 2010 is specifically focused on reducing CO2 emissions both from Nissan products as well as from day-to-day corporate activities.
Nissan is focused on three core areas related to the environment: reducing CO2 emissions; reducing exhaust emissions; and accelerating recycling efforts.Highlights of Nissan Green Program 2010 include:
* Incorporating CO2 reduction as one of the key management performance indicators.
* Launch a �three-liter car� with a target of 2010; a gasoline-fueled car that runs 100 kilometers on three liters of fuel.
* Expand availability of Flexible Fuel Vehicles (FFV) within the next three years.
* Launch a Nissan electric vehicle early in the next decade.
* Develop an original Nissan hybrid vehicle targeted for launch in FY2010.
* Accelerate development of plug-in hybrid technology.
* By 2010, reduce CO2 emissions from global manufacturing plants by 7% (per unit) compared to 2005.
�The Nissan Green Program 2010 provides a transparent view of Nissan�s future commitments to all aspects of environmental management,� said Toshiyuki Shiga, Chief Operating Officer, NML. �Nissan Green Program 2010 has been designed to address immediate challenges as well as creating the foundation towards a long-term sustainable business model
Nissan GT-R SpecV
Nissan GT-R SpecV
Nissan announced a new limited-production Nissan GT-R SpecV model, which goes on sale at seven specially selected Nissan dealers throughout Japan on February 2, 2009. The Nissan GT-R SpecV is targeted specifically at enthusiast drivers who desire race car-level performance in a street-legal vehicle.
Developed around the multi-dimensional Nissan GT-R sports car, which was introduced just more than one year ago to universal global acclaim, the new SpecV model builds on the original's "ultimate supercar that anyone can enjoy driving anywhere, at anytime" philosophy - taking it to an entirely new level of "oneness between man and machine." The SpecV model includes unique body, interior and performance equipment and modifications, raising the GT-R's unmatched performance to even higher levels.
The Nissan GT-R SpecV's new exterior features include a carbon fiber rear spoiler, a carbon fiber grille, and carbon fiber brake ducts. The SpecV is available exclusively in Ultimate Black Opal (RP) body color. Inside, the SpecV's unique two-seat interior (non-SpecV GT-R models also include a two-place rear seat) offers special Recaro carbon fiber bucket seats, while carbon fiber insets embellish the rear center storage box, instrument panel and other trim areas.
Performance is enhanced with a new high gear boost control device, which momentarily increases boost of the engine's twin turbochargers for greater torque in the intermediate-to-high speed ranges to provide a more powerful feeling of acceleration, while also allowing the engine to operate at a lower speed for improved fuel economy. Other modifications include a titanium-coated exhaust system and carbon-ceramic brakes that provide powerful stopping performance.
The Nissan GT-R SpecV is also equipped with lightweight, racing-style forged aluminum wheels that were developed for this model and have been sold by Nissan Motorsports International (NISMO) since September 2008. The lighter unsprung weight provided by the new wheels, together with the enhanced braking capability, an exclusive suspension and high-grip tires, combine to deliver the SpecV's exceptional performance.
Mitsubishi Eclipse GT
Mitsubishi Eclipse GT
The Mitsubishi Eclipse offers the sport coupe customer an "attainable exotic" with striking design, sports car handling and dazzling performance. For 2009, Mitsubishi restyled the front and rear bumper fascias and gave the Mitsubishi Eclipse GT model a large rear spoiler. The GT also gets three significant upgrades for 2009: a new dual exhaust system yields a more powerful sound while also boosting horsepower to 265 (up from 263); standard high intensity discharge (HID) head lamps sharpen front styling and aid nighttime visibility, and standard Active Stability Control (ASC) enhances driving safety and performance.
Three new colors are available: Maizen Blue pearl, Quick Silver metallic and Solar, a vibrant new yellow. New interior cloth fabrics give all models a richer interior feel and appearance. The optional Sun & Sound package for GS model now includes aluminum pedals.
Mitsubishi Eclipse is offered as the 4-cylinder GS and the V-6 GT. The GS model's 162-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine is teamed with a 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 4-speed automatic. The GT's 265 hp 3.8-liter V-6 produces 262 lb.-ft. of peak torque and is teamed with a 6-speed manual transmission or optional 5-speed automatic. In both engines, Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) helps to optimize efficiency and power across a broad engine speed range. Both automatic transmissions feature Sportronic� shifters to allow manual gearshift control.
A rigid platform and 4-wheel independent suspension give the Mitsubishi Eclipse sporty road manners and a compliant ride. All models are equipped with standard four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD); the GT features larger, ventilated rear discs and standard 18-inch alloy wheels.
The Mitsubishi Eclipse interior combines exotic-looking design with comfort and safety, including standard advanced dual-stage front air bags, seat-mounted side air bags and front seat curtain side air bags. High-back front bucket seats feature integrated, open head restraints for a sporty look and enhanced rear visibility. The 50:50 split-folding rear seatbacks provide cargo versatility.
The available 650-watt (max.) Rockford-Fosgate Premium Audio system includes SIRIUS� Satellite Radio with a 6-month pre-paid subscription. The system combines AM/FM/CD/MP3 playback capability, PUNCH� control, a six-disc, in-dash CD changer and a 10-in. subwoofer.
Key Specifications
* Wheelbase: 101.4 in.
* Length: 180.4 in.
* Height: 53.5 in. (53.8 in. with 18-in. wheels)
* Width: 72.2 in.
* Curb weight: GS, 5-speed manual - 3,263 lbs. / GT, 6-speed manual - 3,479 lbs.
