tokyo

Tokyo Concept Cars: Green
Machines
by Shane Kite
Provided by
Japanese manufacturers usually go wild with their concept cars during the Tokyo Motor
Show and introduce experimental vehicles that may or may not appear on the roads
someday. The crop of crazy concepts this year is largely an eco-friendly group of small
vehicles, some of which are tiny enough to serve as personal mobility devices. Below are
all of the world debuting concept vehicles from this year's show, which was held from Oct.
27 through Nov. 11, 2007.
Audi Metroproject Quattro
Audi Metroproject Quattro concept is expected to be the basis for a revamped Audi A1,
due in 2009. The three-door four-seater showcases hybrid technology expected to
achieve 48 miles per gallon and reduce fuel consumption by 15 percent compared to non-
hybrid engines. A 150-horsepower, 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine powers the
front wheels and a 41-hp electric motor positioned over the rear axle powers the rear
wheels. The engine is mated to Audi's paddle-shifting S-tronic Direct Shift Gearbox, which
allows for fast manual gear changes without a clutch pedal. The electric motor alone can
power the car for up to 62 miles of zero-emissions driving, and its battery can be
recharged at any standard outlet. Audi says the vehicle should run to 62 mph in 7.8
seconds and have a top speed of 124 mph. Inside, the center console houses a new
removable control device, which functions as a mobile phone, navigation system,
audio/video player, and vehicle access system. Outside the car, it can be used as a
standalone MP3 player, address database and navigation system. It can also help track
the vehicle if it is stolen.
Honda CR-Z
Honda will resurrect the defunct CR-X in 2009 and the production version of this car will
be based on the CR-Z concept. This lightweight hybrid sports car has a body and engine
specifically designed for clean performance. It's powered by a gas-electric hybrid system
that Honda hopes will appeal to young eco-aware drivers. No details on the new
drivetrain were given at the car's unveiling in Tokyo. Tube-shaped taillights are meant to
ensure better visibility to other drivers, and 19-inch wheels contribute to an aggressive
look. The interior incorporates mesh material hung on a simple framework "to convey a
light, sophisticated image without being oppressive," Honda said. This next-generation
featherweight shows that the race is on to see which automaker can deliver the most
performance with the least pollution.
Honda PUYO
Japan's obsession with cute is well evidenced in the Honda PUYO. Resembling a box turtle
in repose or a cartoon crab, Honda tells us the PUYO aches for cuddling. The goal in
rendering the PUYO's exterior was to create "a personable design with the feel of an
adorable pet." The name is Japanese onomatopoeia meant to convey "the sensation of
touching the vehicle's soft body," Honda says. The "gel body" is not only nice to touch, it
also promotes "greater, real-world safety," Honda says. The boxy design is meant to
supply maximum spaciousness, but the there are no sharp edges or corners, in keeping
with the cuddly motif. Teeny wheels pivot independently and enable the car to turn 360
degrees, which is great for parallel parking. Lamborghini-style doors swing upward to
open and provide access in tight parking spots. Technical features, such as a fuel-cell
propulsion system notwithstanding, there's an overriding emphasis on tactile sensation
and people-car relations.
Lexus LF-Xh
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Lexus evolves its luxury hybrid line-up with an SUV concept called the LF-Xh that
showcases an advanced hybrid system to be used on the next version of the Lexus RX
crossover utility vehicle. Called Lexus Hybrid Drive, it features a V6 gasoline engine and
high-output electric motor system that drives all four wheels. Styling on the LF-Xh is based
on the automaker's L-Finesse design language seen on other Lexus concept vehicles in
recent years. It suggests that the next-generation RX will look bolder than its predecessor.
Mazda Taiki
The Mazda Taiki's design is meant to convey a futuristic sensation. And despite the circa-
1987 Robocop overtones, the company has given the Taiki some truly mean exterior
appeal, silver wrap included. The Taiki provides clues for Mazda's "front-engine, rear-drive
sports car of the future," the automaker says. It gets Mazda's next-generation rotary
engine, which Mazda says "sets new standards for environmental and driving
performance." An all-glass canopy opens up the interior to the sky. Meant to visually
express flowing air, the Taiki design was inspired by the image of a pair of "Hagoromo,"
the flowing robes depicted in traditional "Noh" plays of Japanese theatre, which in lore
enabled celestial maidens to fly. The car is the fourth in a series of concept vehicles
embodying Mazda's "Nagare" or "flow" design theme.
Mitsubishi i MiEV Sport
The Mitsubishi i MiEV SPORT is a zero-emissions plug-in electric mini-car that is the
performance version of the automaker's innovative Electric Vehicle, or "MiEV." In-wheel
motors up front and a special all-wheel-drive system, called Super All Wheel Control (S-
AWC), make this Volkswagen Beetle-looking car highly maneuverable as well as
responsive, the automaker said. A single motor drives the rear wheels. An electronic all-
wheel-drive system optimizes the output of all three electric motors (the two up front and
one at the rear). Besides using regenerative braking technology as is already incorporated
on current hybrid vehicles, the i MiEV Sport includes a couple of other innovative features
that help charge the vehicle's battery pack: an auxiliary photovoltaic generator on the roof
captures and converts sunlight into electricity and a fan inside the front grill harness wind
power. The small coupe has a range of 124 miles and top speed of 112 mph. The taillights
and the interior use power-saving LEDs, and heat-absorbing window glass is meant to
curb the use of air conditioning. "Green plastic," Mitsubishi's plant-based resin
technology, is used where possible to cut down on interior components that could end up
in landfills. The automaker said that occupants are protected in collisions from any
direction, even when colliding with a vehicle of different height or weight, due to the car's
layout and use of Mitsubishi's latest Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) body.
Mitsubishi Concept-ZT
The Concept-ZT is a premium sedan with a shark-like grille from which the new Mitsubishi
Galant will take its cues. It showcases a lot of new safety and performance technology
which has thus far been reserved for luxury cars. The four-seater comes with a new
turbocharged 2.2-liter four-cylinder diesel engine designed to combine power and fuel
efficiency. The engine is mated to a new twin-clutch Sport Shift Transmission (SST). A
series of integrated systems controls driving force, traction and braking at all four wheels
to provide stability on various road surfaces and conditions. All-around monitors provide
360-degree views of the car as seen from the top to aid parking. Radar wave sensors and
cameras work together to monitor the road, and if a collision is imminent, the system
pretensions seat belts, activates crash-restraint seat cushions, and initiates emergency
braking. Another system warns the driver if the car starts to drift from its lane.
Mitsubishi Concept-cX
The Mitsubishi Concept-cX combines a newly developed 1.8-liter clean diesel engine and
Twin Clutch SST sport transmission for improved performance and less environmental
impact. This engine will likely power low-emissions diesel vehicles Mitsubishi plans to
launch in 2009. The four-wheel-drive Concept-cX uses the same vehicle dynamics control
system as Mitsubishi's Concept ZT. Driver visibility is optimized via seat positioning, and
the cargo area is accessible via a split tailgate like that of the existing Outlander SUV.
Mitsubishi's plant-based "green plastic" was used wherever possible. Like many crossover
utility vehicles, the cX seems intended primarily for on-road use.
Nissan Pivo 2
The future is cute for Nissan, too. Resembling a smiling cartoon octopus with its tentacles
curled neatly into four wheels, the Pivo 2 comes equipped with a Teletubby-like robot
buried neck-deep in the dash, which talks to its occupants in a Daffy Duck accent. As the
Tokyo-based automaker says, "you are never alone in the Pivo 2." The robot is fluent in
both Japanese and English and occupants can talk to it to check vehicle functions or find
nearby parking. It can reportedly sense the driver's mood through facial recognition and
speak soothing words when things get tense. But the real charm of this vehicle is not its
HAL-on-helium interface, rather its 360-degree revolving cabin, just like its predecessor.
This means drivers can always face forward, even when going in reverse. The Pivo 2 can
be driven sideways as well. Its wheels can turn a full 90 degrees and each one
incorporates a disc-shaped electric motor. A Pivo driver sits in the middle of a three-seat,
single row in the bubble-like cabin, controlling the car with an airplane-style yoke. The

whole front of the car including the window opens for entry from any direction. The
wheels go pigeon-toed and then move outward to allow the door to open up when the
cabin is facing its natural front position. Safety features include an "around view monitor"
which gives the driver 360-degree views around the vehicle - a feature that is already
making it onto real vehicles, starting with the all-new Infiniti EX35.
Nissan NV200
Nissan's super cool NV200 is a small commercial work van and mobile IT media hub
whose pull-out tool shed is a showcase in creative space rendering. It was inspired by a
professional diver, marine biologist and underwater photographer named Alex Mustard.
The van is meant to double as a mobile office and research center and was made to store
underwater diving paraphernalia as well as computer and mobile communications
equipment, but could conceivably accommodate any endeavor from construction work to
motor sports. The sliding cargo pod extends from the back of the van to reveal a
workspace and living quarters. Inside, a computer table drops down from the side of the
van, revealing two LCD screens. The front passenger seat swivels back on a curved rail to
face the table. The end of the pod forms a bulkhead that houses a small refrigerator, sink,
first aid kit and space to hang clothes. Water tanks supply a shower, which is fitted on the
outside of the pod. A small generator charged by solar panels on the roof powers the
electric equipment. The vehicle itself is powered by a "clean" diesel engine. If conditions
don't permit sleeping under the stars, a two-man tent accessible from outside is housed
behind the driver's door.
Nissan Round Box
Aimed at providing young motorists with "a unique sensation of speed and exhilaration,"
the Round Box compact convertible seems to combine design elements of a Chrysler PT
Cruiser and a Scion. The name seems to stem from the box-shaped top and round center
portion of the body. An innovative, interactive "Play Catch" system enables the driver and
passengers to share entertainment and vehicle information. Because the center portion
of the dash shows vehicle information in large, animated computer graphics, occupants in
the back seat can even see the display. Small glass panels placed close to the ground on
both sides of the car provide passengers with a view of the passing road surface,
"contributing to the shared sensation of speed" but "without the risk of road contact,"
says Nissan. That's a relief. The engine has been reported as a turbocharged direct
injection model mated to Nissan's advanced Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission
(CVT).
Subaru EXIGA Concept
The Subaru EXIGA Concept is a seven-seater wagon that some expect to influence the
design of the upcoming Legacy; others see a family-friendly crossover vehicle. A 2.0-liter
engine mated to a five-speed automatic transmission is complemented by Subaru's
Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive system. An ultra-large glass roof caps off a roomy interior
that's reminiscent of a theater. Subaru said passengers can "enjoy a good view from any
seat."
Subaru G4e Concept
The electric-powered G4e Concept is a plug-in vehicle that boasts a 124-mile range
(double that of the automaker's R1e plug-in) and a 15-minute charging time. Most of the
G4e's 346 volts are stored in 16 batteries underneath the car's floor, with new lithium-ion
technology designed specifically for Subaru. A triangle-shaped body marks this tiny five-
seater as "heading toward the future," Subaru said, and contributes to the vehicle's low
wind resistance. Subaru keeps up the theater-style interior here, offering a large, centrally
located display screen that all occupants can see.
Suzuki PALETTE
The Suzuki PALETTE is a tall, boxy mini-car that will only look weird to those who have yet
to see the tiny cars that proliferate in cities across the pond. The initiated will recognize
the PALETTE as a very practical - small but spacious - vehicle aimed at parents "who
cherish time with their children, and at youngsters who like having fun with friends."
Roomy enough for four people, the PALETTE smartly delivers what families need: left- and
right-hand powered sliding doors and a low flat floor. Both make shuffling kids into and
out of a vehicle much easier.
Suzuki PIXY + SSC
The Suzuki PIXY + SSC is two concepts in one. It's a mini-car (the SSC) that houses a fully-
enclosed personal mobility device (the PIXY). With some further engineering, this concept
could provide a fully motorized option for the elderly or disabled. As is, it could appeal to
fishermen, HAZMAT crews or germaphobes. The SSC can hold up to two PIXYs. These
capsule-like single-occupant transport devices move at low speeds for use on footpaths
or inside buildings. Suzuki says the PIXY is easy to operate even for people who can't drive
conventional cars. The company calls the combo a "Suzuki Sharing Coach," a concept built
for sustainable mobility. We like that the PIXY can also be paired with a sports-car unit
called the SSF, and with a boat unit called the SSJ, but why not go the other way around,

too, and mate a PIXY boat unit to the SSC? Just a suggestion from a fisherman we know.
Suzuki X-HEAD
The X-HEAD is a "cross-utility" pickup with Tonka truck styling that Suzuki says combines
the rough-road performance and toughness of the Suzuki Jimny - a Jeep-like vehicle that
replaced the petite Samurai sold in the U.S. a decade ago - with the hauling capability of
the Suzuki Carry - a small commercial pickup sold overseas. The X-HEAD aims to provide
"functional dependability and fun." It can be fitted with various bed units to suit a range of
needs, including the Camper, which Suzuki says allows two adults to sleep in comfort; a
unit called the Fashion, which provides stylish urban mobility; and the Rescue, which is
designed for rescue operations in extreme environments. It certainly evokes toughness in
a small package. Suzuki may do well to produce the X-HEAD as is: There's nothing else out
there like it.
Toyota 1/X
The 1/X is basically a lightweight Toyota Prius with a plug-in recharge option. The vehicle
weighs a third less and consumes half as much fuel as its popular sibling. Carbon fiber-
reinforced plastic makes for a lighter body. The powertrain combines a gasoline engine
and electric motor, the latter of which can be recharged from an external power source.
Even though engine displacement is also one-third of the Prius', the 1/X achieves
comparable acceleration. Harmony with the environment is emphasized: Headlights
adjust according to conditions, and small narrow wheels cut down on road noise, rolling
resistance and water spray. Thin support pillars around the cabin afford greater visibility,
and an insulated bio-roof composed of plant fibers lets in plenty of natural light. "The
desire to reduce the negative aspects of vehicles...is a difficult challenge," Toyota said in
announcing the concept. "But it must become a reality in order to produce vehicles that
have a more harmonious relationship with people and society. The concept car 1/X
embodies that desire."
Toyota Crown Hybrid Concept
The Toyota Crown is one of the most well-known full-size luxury sedans in Japan - it's
been available in one form or another for more than 50 years. The Crown Hybrid Concept
takes the shape its name suggests: it's a Crown powered by a gas-electric engine that
combines fuel efficiency and low emissions with luxury and comfort. The rear-wheel-drive
vehicle is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine and Toyota's Hybrid System II, more
commonly known as Toyota Synergy Drive. Analog instruments have been replaced by a
"Finegraphic Meter," or thin film that displays vehicle information on an LCD screen. The
Crown hasn't been available in the U.S. since 1971. A production version is expected to
appear in Japan late next year.
Toyota FT-MV
FT-MV stands for "Future Toyota Mini Van," And it provides a good idea of what luxury
minivans will look like in the coming years. Toyota wants to give occupants the sense of
flying first class in an airplane: the six-seater is fully equipped with decadent features
including automatic footrests and large screens on the seat backs; the second and third
rows are comprised of individual leather seats, rather than being the typical bench layout.
LED tail- and headlights and soothing filtered interior lighting further aim to bring upscale
ambience to this oft-maligned vehicle category.
Toyota Hi-CT
We're not sure what the Hi-CT wants to be, but it looks like the front of a train was
chopped off and placed on four tiny rubber wheels. All aboard! Whatever it is, this plug-in
hybrid concept can be charged from an external power source, and by placing the battery
under the floor, Toyota says the Hi-CT "achieves a highly efficient cabin with a higher
driver position." The automaker also says that the Hi-CT "aims to offer a new sense of
'coolness.'" And even if the Hi-CT doesn't turn out to be that cool, at least it can carry
things which are - it features a removable rear trunk and deck where surfboards, bicycles
and other equipment can be loaded. It also includes a 100-volt accessory socket that
enables stored electricity from the plug-in technology to be used for a variety of
applications.
Toyota i-REAL
The i-REAL is yet another personal mobility contraption that could be the wheelchair of
the future. The iPod-like styling means it looks cooler than the Segway Personal
Transporter, an existing mobility vehicle, which requires standing. And the i-REAL's body
provides wrap-around protection of a user's arms and legs, which a traditional wheelchair
lacks. This protection could come in handy at its impressive top speed of 18.6 mph. It uses
three wheels, two at the front, one at the back, and has a low-speed mode that shortens
the wheelbase to allow maneuvering among pedestrians. In high-speed mode, the
wheelbase lengthens, providing a lower center of gravity for better driving performance
and maximum driver comfort in a reclined position. The i-REAL also uses perimeter
monitoring sensors to detect when a collision is imminent, alerting the driver by emitting
a noise and vibrating, while at the same time, alerting people around it through what
Toyota calls a "pleasant use" of light and sound.

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Toyota RiN
The Toyota RiN resembles a spa on wheels. The automaker says the RiN is focused on
promoting well-being and serene, healthy living. While in the boxy, window-laden four-
seater, Toyota says that "Drivers are encouraged to reevaluate themselves and
furthermore, to turn their attention to society and nature, producing a healthy rhythm for
both mind and body." The RiN's seats help maintain good posture; green glass reduces
infiltration of ultraviolet and infrared light and makes the surroundings seem brighter and
clearer. A meter on the steering wheel gauges mood, displaying colors to reflect a driver's
emotional state. The sliding doors are also windows that reach down almost to the car's
underside. The interior features heated seats, an oxygen-level conditioner and humidifier.
Headlights automatically dim to avoid blinding pedestrians and other drivers. Deep green
is contrasted with beige inside to enrich "the complexions of those onboard and evoke a
healthy mental and physical feeling." Taking its design motif from the deep-rooted, tall-
growing Yakusugi tree, a variety of Japanese cypress, Toyota says the RiN aims to express
"harmony with nature and healthy mind and body."
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