Mazda Ryuga Concept

MAZDA RYUGA CONCEPT: AN EVOLVED ZOOM-ZOOM

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. The 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 INTERIOR The 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 . THE 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.

Hyundai Veloster Concept

The Style Hyundai's Design and Technical Center at Namyang, the Veloster (codenamed HND-3) coupe is the third in a series of daring concept cars to be developed by the central styling studio in Korea. The Veloster name, a compound of velocity and roadster evokes the sporty characteristics of a classic two-plus-two. A panoramic glass roof and other futuristic styling cues help project a high-tech image. The designed to cater to the tastes of the Y-generation, Veloster combines simple, iconic design with good value and robust construction. * Length: 4,100 * Width: 1,790 * Height: 1,450 * Wheelbase: 2,600 * Tires: 245/35 R 20 * Powertrain: FWD 2.0-liter DOHC Theta inline 4-cylinder, 5-speed automatic

Hyundai Genesis Coupe Concept

The concept car heralds the introduction of an all-new, rear-wheel drive 2+2 sports coupe. Following the introduction earlier this year of the Concept Genesis sedan, Concept Genesis Coupe signals Hyundai's second step in broadening its appeal to driving enthusiasts. The Sonic Orange concept is complemented by a Ballistic Black carbon fiber hood, roof and ground effects for reduced weight. Strong hints of the production version are highlighted in its "Z" bodylines and powerful curves. When the production sports coupe arrives, it likely will be the most affordable 300+ horsepower car on the market, and the most dynamic performance car yet from Hyundai. The powerful curves, surface detail and "Z" bodyside lines come straight from the same underlying inspiration that guided two earlier, well-received concepts: the HCD9 Talus and the HCD8 sports tourer. The undulating beltline borrowed from the Talus adds intrigue while enhancing outward visibility for both the driver and rear passengers. The HCD8 sports tourer's sensual body forms influenced the overall design theme while also providing direction for the concept's assertive headlight and taillight designs. When viewed from a distance, the car is beautiful to look at. To complete the aggressive sports car look, the depth between the fenders and the greenhouse has been maximized. Three large heat extractors sculpted into the hood are designed to cool just about any powerful engine. When the concept becomes reality, three large openings in the front fascia will allow for better engine breathing. The dual exhaust tips integrated into the rear fascia repeat the design theme of the front cooling ducts and are surrounded by a large carbon fiber air diffuser. An arching roofline and tapering greenhouse highlight the exterior profile and emphasize the car's broad shoulders and wide stance. Concept Genesis Coupe rides on 20-inch polished aluminum deep-dish wheels with Hankook 255/35 ZR front tires and 275/35 ZR rear tires.

Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept

Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept, a design study model, demonstrates a unique fusion of advanced environmental technology, exciting styling and fun-to-drive characteristics. The Small Hybrid Sports Concept is conceived around a front-wheel drive, small car platform and is powered by a Honda IMA 4-cylinder petrol/electric hybrid system driving through a CVT transmission. It explores the idea that a car can have a low environmental impact yet still deliver all the driving enjoyment expected of a compact sports car. The aerodynamic design is characterised by curvaceous and contoured surfaces contrasting with sharp "folded" edges. The short front and rear overhangs, together with wheelarches that wrap tightly around large wheels, further enhance the dramatic looks of this sports coupe. An accentuated, arrow-like nose features a full width air intake with Civic family overtones. This sweeps forward into a distinct protruding centre section complete with 'H' logo. The Concept model's fluid lines are created by a steeply raked windscreen which extends back above the occupants' heads where it meets a one piece glass roof. This in turn flows rearwards to give the car its fastback styling, terminating in a distinctive and futuristic 3D floating glass design - a concave element which forms an additional vertical window. At its base, further distinction is provided by a 'floating' LED tail light unit that stretches across the full width of the car. At its centre, the glass panel extends downwards and contains an illuminated 'Small Hybrid Sports' name plate. The Hybrid Sports Concept is equipped with 165/60 section tyres mounted on 20-inch distinctive rims. Their dimension supports low rolling resistance without compromising sporty driving. Compact external dimensions lend themselves to nimble, agile performance on the road and help to ensure a good power to weight ratio. 4000 mm in length, 1270 mm tall and 1760 mm wide, and the 2350 mm wheelbase, in conjunction with a sports suspension, delivers stable and predictable handling characteristics. The body is particularly aerodynamically efficient and compact. Rear-facing digital cameras take the place of conventional door

Daihatsu Copen

The Copen's appeal has been drastically widened thanks to the fitment of the same 87 PS engine as the Sirion supermini which not only boosts performance and economy but allows higher gearing for more relaxed cruising. The only difference to the pure uncluttered shape of the previous Daihatsu Copen is a small rear boot spoiler and a range of new colours. Cute and timeless Daihatsu Copen sports car has become considerably more desirable with a punchy yet more frugal new 1.3 litre engine, higher gearing to enhance refinement. New Engine Transforms Appeal The Copen's new 1.3 litre petrol engine totally transforms the small car's appeal while providing even better fuel economy and lower exhaust emissions - a Daihatsu speciality. The engine itself is highly-advanced and is essentially the same unit fitted to the Daihatsu Sirion supermini. Featuring Dynamic Variable Valve Timing (DVVT) which enhances low-speed pulling power and high-rev response, the twin overhead camshaft unit is compact and light, with an alloy head and block. The new Daihatsu Copen is only 27 kg heavier than the previous 660 cc model and now weighs a nimble 850 kg. Power is 87 PS at 6,000 rpm with torque of 88.5 lb ft at 4,400 rpm. The engine has a 10.3:1 compression ratio and features a bore and stroke of 72 x 79.7 mm. It also features durable chains for its camshaft drive which require no maintenance and cannot snap like belt systems. Oil change intervals are now 9,000 miles instead of the previous 660 cc model's 3,000 miles. World's First Self-Regenerating Catalyst The new Sirion 1.3 litre launched in 2005 featured the world's first self-regenerating catalyst. This innovation is also shared by the new Copen. It effectively extends the life of the catalytic converter, reducing maintenance costs and is kinder to the environment as it keeps the catalyst 'healthier' over a higher mileage meaning the already low 140 g/km does not increase as the engine becomes older. This revolutionary technology works by providing a self-regenerating capability in the particles of the precious metal which normally degrades. Using nanotechnology, the intelligent catalyst incorporates metallic ions of palladium, the most heat-sensitive of the metals used in a catalytic converter. According to temperature and available oxygen, the particles turn in and out of a crystalline state therefore regenerating and prolonging the cat's ability to clean exhaust gasses. The luggage capacity with the roof up is sufficient for a weekend away. With the roof down, there is space for a soft sports bag. The front-wheel drive Daihatsu Copen measures 3,440 mm long, has a 1,475 mm width excluding mirrors and is 1,245 mm high. Its wheelbase is 2,225 mm, overhangs are tiny and the driver sits perfectly between front and rear wheels for extra handling intimacy. The engine is transversely-mounted in the front. Agile Chassis - Conceived As A Sports Car Anyone expecting the Daihatsu Copen to be a shallow style-statement will be in for a surprise. The power-steering is especially direct and informative and the handling taut and agile. High Safety Levels Safety is given high priority in the Daihatsu Copen which - despite its small size - has all the latest life-saving and injury-reducing initiatives. The braking system features servo-assisted front ventilated disc brakes measuring a generous 246 mm with 180 mm rear drums. Anti-lock is also standard as is Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) which further avoids the locking-up of individual wheels during severe braking. Daihatsu's much-admired impact-sensing system acts as an emergency-alert device by automatically unlocking the doors following an accident, activating the hazard flashers and cutting off the fuel supply.