Honda Pilot Prototype

Honda Pilot Prototype 2009

The prototype conveys the design features of the more boldly-styled 2009 Pilot, which emphasizes authentic SUV styling, clever and more accommodating interior packaging and advanced technologies for safety, fuel efficiency and convenience.
The functional eight-passenger seating, a hallmark of the Pilot, becomes even easier to access in the third row as key dimensions for legroom, cargo and occupant space increase in all seating positions. A redesigned platform allows even more refined handling and ride comfort to exist seamlessly with all-weather and medium-duty off-road capabilities.
The Pilot will feature the Honda-exclusive Advanced Compatibility Engineering(ACE) body structure and the most extensive use of high-strength steel in any Honda product to date.

The ACE body structure enhances frontal collision compatibility with vehicles of different sizes and bumper heights. A pedestrian injury mitigation design in the front of the vehicle is designed to help absorb energy in the event of a collision.
A crossover SUV platform underpins the Pilot to provide the best of the car and truck worlds by integrating the refined traits and packaging advantages of a unit body car design with the utility and capability of an SUV design. A V-6 engine introduces the latest generation of Honda fuel-saving Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) technology that operates in 6-cylinder mode for power and 4- and 3-cylinder modes for efficiency, an improvement compared to the existing Pilot's available VCM system that works exclusively in 6- and 3-cylinder modes.
The three rows of seats provide a high degree of adaptability for people and large cargo loads. The first row provides a commanding view of the road from two captains' chairs. A wide center stack and center console form the styling anchor for the interior with a design that emphasizes spaciousness and power, while allowing for convenient access to navigation, entertainment and climate-control systems.
The 60/40 split second row, more spacious, slides further forward for increased ease of access to the third row. The 60/40 split third row, now supplies enough knee room for an above-average-sized adult male to fit comfortably, making the Pilot's third row among the most practical in the industry. Each side of the second and third row independently folds down for cargo. A flat floor is created when the second and third rows are folded down.

Among its numerous accolades, the Honda Pilot has earned Car and Driver Magazine's prestigious "5Best Truck" award on six consecutive occasions (2002-2007). The current-generation 2008 Pilot is also among an elite group of vehicles to receive both a "Top Safety Pick 2008" from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a 5-star crash safety rating for frontal and side collisions from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Hyundai Santa Fe Blue Hybrid Concept

The vehicle maintains the overall design and dynamics of the standard Hyundai Santa Fe, but is altogether a different car under the hood. Hyundai engineers developed a proprietary parallel hybrid drive system which mates the powerful but thrifty 2.4-litre Theta engine to a six-speed automatic transmission and a 30Kw electric motor for maximum fuel economy and substantially reduced CO2 emissions. And it also can be used as a generator in order to save regenerative electric energy to the battery. This proprietary parallel hybrid drive architecture will serve as the foundation for all future hybrid drive vehicles to be developed by Hyundai.

Hybrid Technology
The petrol-electric hybrid technology featured in the Hyundai Santa Fe Blue Hybrid reduces CO2 emissions to just 148 g/km (combined cycle) and delivers a fuel consumption figure of 6.2l/100km (combined cycle). With an estimated top speed of 170 km/h and a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 10.6 sec.
To maximize fuel economy, all of the Theta's major driveline and cooling system components have been optimized to reduce friction, while the crankcase has been filled with low friction oil engine control software automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a halt, cutting emissions to zero. When pressure is reapplied to the accelerator pedal, the Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) automatically restarts the engine. The Theta's engine control software governing injection pressure, engine cycle timing and exhaust retreatment rates has been revised to further reduce fuel consumption.
In addition, the latest electric motor-assisted steering system reduces power drain, and very low resistance tyres further optimize fuel economy.

Electric propulsion for the Hyundai Santa Fe Blue Hybrid is provided by a 30kW electric motor (205Nm) which is coupled directly to the six-speed automatic tranmssion. The top three gear ratios have been extended to ensure lower engine revolutions per minute (RPM) and further enhance fuel economy. Electrical power is stored in a 270V Lithium Polymer rechargeable battery (5.3Ah/270V) which has significant advantages over lithium-ion batteries, including higher energy density and lower manufacturing costs. Li-Poly is also more resistant to physical damage and can also take more charge-discharge cycles before storage capacity begins to degrade.

To be sold initially in the Korean domestic market under the Avante badge, the Elantra LPI Hybrid will be the world's first electric hybrid vehicle to be powered by liquid petroleum gas (LPG) and the first to adopt advanced Li-Poly batteries.
Hyundai's developed its very first hybrid electric vehicle in 1995 when it unveiled the Future Green Vehicle at the Seoul Motor Show. In 1999 it displayed an Elantra Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) at the Seoul Motor Show and, in 2000, an Accent HEV - both of which featured 'hard-type' parallel electric drive systems and Integrated Starter Generator technology. However, these research development vehicles did not go into mass production.
In 2004, the company moved its HEV program into low-volume test production, delivering 50 examples of a gas-electric hybrid Hyundai Getz (B-segment vehicles badged as Hyundai Click in the Korean domestic market) to Korean government agencies as part of a fleet demonstration project. These were 'mild-type' hybrid systems using 12kW motors and nickel metal hydride batteries. The hybrid technology development program continued to expand and, in 2005, Hyundai and its affiliate Kia Motors Corp. delivered 350 more units to the demonstration fleet, 730 more units in 2006 and 1,682 more units in 2007, including Accent HEVs.

Innovative Panoramic Roof
The Hyundai Santa Fe Blue Hybrid features an innovative three-piece panorama sunroof. The moveable glass top has UV filtration which reduces thermal loading without restricting light transparency. And to protect cabin occupants against solar radiation, an adjustable shade can be operated separately from the glass top. The modular system solution was developed Magna Car Top System.

Kia No3 Concept

Kia No3 concept car 2009

The concept features a unique extended windscreen and panorama glass roof with a diagonal supporting bar, an automatic sun visor and the evolving 'face of Kia' which displays the front grille, head lamps and brand logo in a new constellation.

The 4045 mm long concept, which is finished in matt Titanium Grey with contrasting gloss-white accents, stands out from the crowd with its powerful proportions, dynamic lines, a modern, sophisticated interior and generous cabin space for flexible use.

Compact sportiness combined with versatility and spaciousness creates a unique interaction and a truly innovative style in Kia No3. The new concept car establishes the image of the brand and Kia's new design philosophy that will extend beyond the segment of compact cars. The fresh 'face' of the brand is clearly characterised by the proportions of three crucial elements and the relationship between them — the new radiator grille, the extra-large headlights, and the brand logo placed precisely on the centre-line, create a new 'constellation' that will also be highlighted on Kia's future models.
Extremely short overhangs accentuate the compact exterior dimensions of the car, powerfully contoured bumpers and large wheel arches as well as extra-large diameter wheels, bring out the sporty character of Kia No3. The concept clearly boasts a dynamic wedge shape characterised in particular by the window graphics and the lines rising up to the rear. The rear light clusters are wrapped distinctly around the side panels.
Nineteen-inch light-alloy wheels running on all-weather high-speed tyres, provide a clear hint at the car's sporting performance. The wheel rims, painted black on the outside and finished in glossy chrome on the inside, exude a strong feeling of power.

Kia No3's long wheelbase (2615 mm) and short overhangs front and rear, together with generous height (1600 mm) and width (1760 mm), provide all the features and qualities typical of an MPV. Extra comfort and space, plus the economic use of the available space are ensured by the ergonomically ideal, slightly elevated seating position. The split rear seats are adjustable independently, with sliding and folding functions.
An extra-large panorama glass roof extends directly out of the windscreen and stretches all the way to the rear spoiler. The result is not only excellent all-round visibility, but also a truly generous feeling of interior space. A diagonally arranged roofbar barely breaks the elegant, seemingly uninterrupted flow of the tinted glass surface.
The highlights of the car's exterior design — modern style, individual character, sporty performance, and unparalleled diversity — also characterise the interior, taking up and repeating the contrast of high-gloss white and black surfaces. Kia No3 clearly demonstrates the highlights of Kia's future in interior design, with the focus on sophisticated materials, top-quality finish, stylish features, and the most advanced IT technology — all combined with a contemporary lifestyle feeling.

Mazda Kazamai Concept

Mazda Kazamai Concept 2008

The Mazda Kazamai Concept is dynamic and athletic looking on the outside and displays an evolved Mazda Nagare 'flow' design. Unlike previous concept cars, Mazda Kazamai's styling represents powerful natural movements that are emotionally expressed through three-dimensional motifs stretching over the whole body.

The interior - SUV Functionality with Driving Safety
The Mazda Kazamai is a pure expression of speed and power, it also accommodates up to four passengers with compact SUV comfort and functionality. It was designed to fulfil many driver and vehicle interfaces so as to support the driver in enjoying safe and stress-free driving, with a well considered man/machine relationship, good visibility and an easy to operate cockpit. This is one of Mazda's important areas of the Sustainable Zoom-Zoom plan.

The Lightweight and Aerodynamic
Weight reduction and superior aerodynamic performance are core technologies to improve both driving pleasure and environmental performance, especially improving fuel economy. Mazda will further focus on these crucial factors in order to achieve the goals of the Sustainable Zoom-Zoom plan. Despite its powerful exterior look, the Mazda Kazamai Concept's excellent aerodynamic performance is achieved through a flat floor panel, a rear diffuser, and a low roof line. The aim was to make the Mazda Kazamai's aerodynamics more than 10% better than other vehicles in its class.

Next-Generation Powertrain - 30 Percent Improvement in Fuel Consumption
The ideal powertrain match for the Mazda Kazamai Concept would be the next-generation 2.0-litre direct-injection petrol engine, which Mazda engineers are currently developing. This engine delivers a balance of sporty driving - especially in a compact car like the Mazda Kazamai - with good environmental performance. Mazda Kazamai will feature a DISI engine based on the current Mazda CX-7's engine, with advanced technologies to minimise energy loss and vastly improved thermal efficiency. Mazda's next generation 2.0-litre DISI petrol engine also has combustion control technology and variable valve control that deliver strong torque throughout the rev-range for excellent engine response as well as superior fuel economy. A next-generation catalyst also ensures superior emissions performance.

The engine is coupled to a lightweight, next-generation compact six-speed automatic transmission that is highly responsive and delivers the direct feel of a manual transmission, and with four-wheel drive for superior traction. In combination with Mazda Kazamai's next-generation aerodynamics and its lightweight body outlined above, this powertrain would deliver an estimated 30 percent improvement in fuel consumption and emissions (versus the current MZR 2.0-litre petrol) - without compromising driving pleasure.

Advanced Safety and Security Features
Mazda Kazamai is lightweight, fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive, it is designed with safety as a key element. Its advanced body shell is a product of a new body structure programme currently being refined at Mazda with a lightweight structure that provides high levels of crash safety. Mazda Kazamai also has a long list of active safety features including roll stability control, blind-spot monitoring to assist lane change, a pre-crash safety system and advanced dynamic stability control (DSC). And to meet future pedestrian safety requirements, it has soft plastic fenders and a shock-cone aluminium bonnet that is very efficient in absorbing impact energy.

Mitsubishi Eclipse GT

Mitsubishi Eclipse GT 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 : 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.
The 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.

he 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.

Nissan Denki Cube Concept.

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.”

The Denki Cube Concept
In 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 new
EV 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” front grille 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.

The 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 Cube Concept 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 the cause 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 with NEC Corp. and NEC Tokin Corp. – with the goal of dramatically enhancing future battery performance and reducing 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 2010
Nissan 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.