- 44th Tokyo International Motor Show 2015

In the 1960s the Wankel Rotary Piston Engine appeared as the potential replacement of the "conventional" Reciprocating Piston Engine. More than forty manufacturers in the world took a license for the development and production of the newcomer. Mazda took the license in 1961 and launched the Cosmo in 1967. The main advantage was a great simplicity and compactness together with limited number of parts and limited vibrations . The drawbacks comprised high fuel consumption and polluted exhaust gases. Mazda was the only manufacturer to pursue the development and production. The production eventually stopped in 2012 with restriction in pollution. Mazda has pursued the development and now comes back with the RX Vision Concept intended for production.

There is always a wide selection of new ideas and original shape in the Keijidosha  (light automobile) or Japanese mini vehicle category where the size is limited to 340 cm (11.2 ft) long for 148 cm (4.9 ft) wide but 200 cm (6.6 ft) high; the propulsion goes by a gasoline engine limited to 660 cc. This category is very popular in Japan with limited taxes, easy parking and low fuel consumption. Daihatsu, Honda and Suzuki are the specialists for this local market and present original concept vehicles among production models.

Honda has unveiled its next generation Clarity Fuel Cell today at the 44th Tokyo Motor Show. This new hydrogen fuel cell automobile follows the Honda FCX Clarity launched in 2008 and produced at 75 units for fleets in Japan, the United States and Europe.

With the new automobile, Honda has been able to achieve a level of interior space that allows five adults to be comfortably accommodated as would be expected in a conventionally powered sedan. The size of the fuel cell stack and the power generation unit have been reduced through Honda’s advanced technologies to a size comparable to a V6 engine.

The fuel cell stack are now 33% more compact than the stack used in the original FCX Clarity. This improvement is highly impressive as it has been achieved in parallel with an increase in maximum motor output to 130 kW (177ps) and a power density increased by 60% to 3.1 kW/L.

The Clarity Fuel Cell is equipped with a high-pressure tank capable of storing hydrogen gas at 70 MPa, increasing the mass of hydrogen that can be stored and extending the range of the vehicle. Coupled with the efficient powertrain and reduced vehicle energy consumption, the Clarity Fuel Cell achieves a vehicle range per full tank of over 700 km1  (435miles).

In addition, the high-pressure tank can be quickly refilled, the process taking approximately three minutes at 70 MPa and 20oC.
Honda Clarity Fuel Cell dimensions: Length 4,895 mm (192,7 inches) ; width 1875 mm (73,8 inches); height 1,475 mm (58 inches

Toyota FCV PLUS Hydrogen Fuel Cell Concept

This Hydrogen Fuel Cell Car project  is a show car representing an original Design study.

The fuel cell stack is mounted between the front tires, and the hydrogen tank behind the rear seat. Together with the adoption of independent in-wheel motors in all four wheels, this allows for a spacious cabin despite the vehicle's compact vehicle body. By concentrating functional parts at the front and the rear of the vehicle, this next-generation fuel cell vehicle package creates an optimal weight balance and a wide field of vision.

The exterior adopts a distinctive, sleek shape, while the frame structure of the interior ensures rigidity despite the light weight of the car. Altogether, the design conveys the vehicle's advanced technology and outstanding environmental performance.

It is an opportunity to demonstrate potential use not only in transportation but also in providing electricity by charging electric vehicle or serving as electricity source when supplied by external hydrogen source.

Dimension: Length 3800 mm, width 1750 mm, height 1540 mm, wheelbase 3000 mm.

Nissan IDS Autonomous Driving Electric Concept

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. unveiled a concept vehicle that embodies Nissan’s vision of the future of autonomous driving and zero emission Electric Vehicle: the Nissan IDS Concept.

Presenting at the show, Nissan president and CEO Carlos Ghosn said: “Nissan’s forthcoming technologies will revolutionize the relationship between car and driver, and future mobility.”

Nissan Intelligent Driving is Nissan’s concept of autonomous drive technology and represents what Nissan believes next-generation vehicles should be. “Nissan Intelligent Driving improves a driver’s ability to see, think and react. It compensates for human error, which causes more than 90 percent of all car accidents. As a result, time spent behind the wheel is safer, cleaner, more efficient and more fun,” continued Ghosn.

By 2020, expect to see Nissan Intelligent Driving technology deployed on cars in cities around the world.
The Nissan IDS Concept is fitted with a high-capacity 60 kWh battery connected to electric powertrain technologies, and thanks to its outstanding aerodynamics, low stance, flowing form and reduced weight due to its full-carbon-fibre body, the vehicle is designed to also meet the need to drive long distances. Other technologies on the Nissan IDS Concept include Piloted Park that can be operated by smartphone or tablet, and wireless charging technologies. Through these, the driver can leave parking and charging to the car.

Design Director Mitsunori Morita says: “By the time Nissan Intelligent Driving technology is available on production cars, EVs will be able to go great distances on a single charge. Getting to this point will, of course, require the further evolution of batteries, but aerodynamic performance is also very important. We incorporated our most advanced aerodynamic technology in the design of the Nissan IDS Concept.”

See related reviews inside : Nissan IDS Concept 2015, Autonomous electric vehicle

Mercedes Benz Vision Tokyo Autonomous Driving Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle

The Vision Tokyo is the latest trailblazing spatial experience to come from Mercedes-Benz: its monolithic structure, futuristic design idiom and unique lounge ambience in the interior define it as luxurious, young and progressive – thus making it a fitting tribute to the sophisticated megacity and trendsetting metropolis that is Tokyo. Spatially efficient, versatile and intelligently connected, the Vision Tokyo – which is also capable of driving autonomously – is an urban transformer that reflects the growing youthfulness of the Mercedes-Benz brand.

Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Daimler AG: “The Mercedes-Benz Vision Tokyo embodies the concept of an automotive lounge for a future generation of megacities. The purity and sensuality of the Vision Tokyo’s styling defines a new interpretation of modern luxury from Mercedes-Benz.”

The dimensions of the Vision Tokyo (length/width/height: 4803/2100/1600 mm) are comparable with those of a mid-series vehicle. Up to five passengers access the interior via the upward-swinging door on the left-hand side – ideal for the right-hand-drive traffic in Japan’s megacity. The conventional seating arrangement in rows is thus redundant, while there is also no “front” or “back” here: passengers take their seats instead on a large, oval-shaped couch. This unique lounge-style arrangement allows everyone on board to enjoy the benefits of autonomous driving.

The bodyshell of the Vision Tokyo has been designed to allow the crash-protected integration of a fuel cell-powered electric drive system. This is based on the trailblazing F-CELL PLUG-IN HYBRID of the F 015 Luxury in Motion and combines the on-board generation of electricity with a particularly powerful and compact high-voltage battery that can be charged without contact via induction. The use of pressure tanks made from CFRP is envisaged for the storage of hydrogen in the concept car. The electric hybrid system has a total range of 980 kilometers, of which some 190 kilometers are courtesy of battery-powered driving and around 790 kilometers on the electricity produced in the fuel cell.

Mazda Motor Corporation unveiled the Mazda RX-VISION at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show. The sports car concept is powered by a next-generation SKYACTIV-R rotary engine, the unconventional technology that is perhaps the most compelling symbol of the carmaker’s challenger spirit.

An exquisitely proportioned front-engine, rear-wheel drive model, the RX-VISION represents a “vision” of the future that could only come from Mazda. And one that countless fans of the brand around the world hope will become a reality.
Rotary engines are unique in that they generate power through the rotational motion of triangular rotors (unlike the reciprocating pistons in conventional automotive engines). Overcoming numerous technical difficulties, Mazda succeeded in commercializing rotary power, first in the Mazda Cosmo Sport 110S in 1967 and then in several other models. The most successful of these was the Mazda RX-7, the most-sold rotary car ever with more than 800,000 produced between 1978 and 2002.

Continually striving to improve output, fuel economy and durability, Mazda was the only company to ever win the 24 Hours of Le Mans with a rotary-powered race car, a feat it managed in 1991 in the Mazda 787B.

Although not currently mass-producing any rotary models, Mazda never ceased its R&D activities.

Mitsubishi eX Electric Crossover Concept

The MITSUBISHI eX Concept is a vision for a compact SUV powered by a next- generation EV system. In terms of design, overall it evokes the image of a sports crossover zipping nimbly around town as it merges the elegance and stylishness of a “shooting brake” (a term for a coupé with flowing styling fused with a hatchback car, the term originates from British hunting-use horse carriages) with compact SUV lines. The front end expresses a new interpretation of MMC’s Dynamic Shield front design concept. In both its exterior and interior, the MITSUBISHI eX Concept indicates the direction MMC Design is taking.

The next-generation EV system employs a high-capacity and high-performance battery together with compact high-output electric motors making it lighter and more efficient. With further weight reductions in the vehicle itself, it can provide a cruising range of 400 km.

Installing the drive battery beneath the body has lowered the center of gravity and together with its Twin Motor 4WD and S-AWC integrated vehicle dynamics control systems helps it provide handling control which faithfully reflects driver inputs as well as outstanding vehicle stability.

Nissan Teatro for Dayz Electric Digital Generation Concept

The Nissan Teatro for Dayz is a combination of mobile technologies unlike any previously proposed in a car. Combined with Nissan’s EV technology, this car represents a radical new way of thinking about how vehicles can be used. The Nissan Teatro for Dayz's simple, square design maximizes possibilities for communicating and sharing, both inside and out. The wide, open interior provides the perfect space for friends to gather, while the plain exterior features LED screens that enable further self-expression. Overall, the unusually simple exterior design creates a compact and grounded impression, with cleanly rounded roof and bumpers, wheels extended to the outer corners and radically short front and rear overhangs.

This is the first car designed specifically for the generation known as “digital natives.” Teatro for Dayz is more than a car for a generation of consumers accustomed to transformational technology and the freedom to use digital devices for sharing experiences.

“Designing a car to appeal to the generation we call ‘share natives’ required us to intentionally not use knowledge and tried-and-true approaches we had amassed,” says Executive Design Director Satoshi Tai.

Tai explains: “The interior can be visually altered according to one’s mood, for playing games, and in the blink of an eye to surprise friends. What Teatro for Dayz is, how it’s used, and what it could become are all up to the share native’s imagination.”

At first it may be surprising to see only a steering wheel and a flat instrument panel, but in this interior space conventional knobs and switches would limit display arrangement and expression. That’s why Nissan adopted voice control and motion sensors for the air conditioning and audio systems. In drive mode, meters and car navigation data are displayed on the instrument panel. When parked, it all disappears. Seats with bases that resemble balance balls feel radically different from the usual grip of a car seat, further signaling a departure from the conventional.

Nissan Gripz Electric Concept

The Nissan Gripz Concept, conceived by designers in Europe and Japan, aims to blend the ability and practicality of a compact crossover with the excitement and performance of a sports car. The Nissan Gripz Concept is an EV-based series hybrid sports crossover

See : Nissan GripZ Hybrid EV Concept  2015

Nissan Concept 2020 Vision Gran Turismo

Nissan Concept 2020 Vision Gran Turismo, a concept supercar developed in conjunction with Polyphony Digital Inc., the creators of the racing video game Gran Turismo for PlayStation, is certain to further increase Nissan’s sizable presence in the game and beyond.

See related car review : Nissan concept 2020 Vision Gran Turismo

New Nissan Leaf

Since the Nissan Leaf’s launch in 2010, over 180,000 have been sold worldwide, making it the world’s best-selling EV. At this year’s Tokyo show, Nissan will exhibit a new grade offering a single-charge driving range up to 280 km (Nissan internal measurements based on Japanese driving conditions) and advanced safety technology—standardized across all grades for the Japan market—including Forward Emergency Braking, which is designed to help drivers avoid or mitigate the impact of frontal collisions, and Lane Departure Warning. Nissan plans to announce the latest Nissan Leaf grades for Japan in November and begin sales in December.

KEN OKUYAMA KODE 9

Part race car, part sports car, the kode9 is a concept that employs stunning but simple proportions and a driving experience to rival some of today’s greatest sports cars. “This is my message to today’s car industry which seems stuck in a rut of overly complicated lines and styling based on the lowest-common-denominator,” says Okuyama.
This street-legal clubman racer incorporates the central section of a hydro-aluminum chassis, but with front and rear chassis sections specially designed and unique to this car. in-house developed wet carbon components, manufacturing technology using the latest 3D printers, Yamazaki Mazak’s precision CNC cutting technology and the latest aerodynamic trends in a package that tips the scales at just 890 kgs.
Powered by a Japan-sourced 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine with HKS supercharger, the kode9 generates an impressive 370 hp. All suspension components are unique to this coupe together with its fully adjustable suspension setup. And with specially fitted 4-pot Akebono brake calipers, the kode9 guarantees unlimited fun behind the wheel.
(source www.kenokuyamadesign.com)

Honda NSX 2016

The NSX is a super sports car for a new era. The new model features lightweight body construction and a new inline 3.5-litre V6 twin turbo engine as part of the three-motor SPORT HYBRID SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) system. The engine is combined with three electric motors (two of which are housed in the front wheels) via a 9-speed Dual Clutch Transmission. The all-new NSX will be launched in Europe during 2016.

See related car review : Honda Acura NSX Supercar 2015

Honda S660 - a K Car Roadster

Honda WANDER STAND and Honda WANDER WALKER concepts

The WANDER STAND allows two adults to ride side by side to experience a new way to drive. Honda’s Omni Traction Drive System allows complete freedom of movement forwards, backwards, laterally and diagonally. The width of the concept allows it to access the most narrow of streets, while an automatic drive mode allows occupants to relax and explore new territory.

The WANDER WALKER is designed with the city of the near future in mind, where personal mobility solutions will give riders free access to all parts of their environment. The highly compact design is 540mm wide and can easily fit down narrow streets thanks to its innovative steering system. The concept also features a display tablet, which doubles as the key for the vehicle.

Honda Project 2&4 powered by RC213V

Lexus LF-FC Hydrogen Fuel Cell Concept

“Lexus wants to surprise and evoke emotion with its distinctive design and forward-thinking technology. For us, it is more than just a car, and we should exceed conventional imagination. The LF-FC expresses our progressive luxury and high-tech vision of a not so distant future.”  Tokuo Fukuichi, Lexus International President.

The LF-FC features a fresh new styling theme that embodies Lexus’ “L-finesse” design philosophy. From every angle, the sedan is aggressively elegant, exuding the spirit of a grand touring vehicle.

The spacious interior of the LF-FC has been designed to wrap its occupants in a comfortable yet futuristic environment, while providing the driver with a highly-functional cockpit. The cabin has been designed in two sections, top and bottom. The top conveys a sense of openness, allowing the driver to concentrate on the road ahead without feeling constrained.

At the heart of the LF-FC is a high output fuel cell power system that energizes the rear wheels, and also sends power to two in-wheel motors in the front, making the LF-FC all-wheel-drive. This innovative drive system allows precise torque distribution control between the front and rear wheels, giving the full-size sedan exceptional dynamic handling and superior road stability. The strategic placement of the fuel-cell stack at the rear of the vehicle, power control unit at the front and T-formation configured hydrogen fuel tanks result in front and rear weight distribution optimal for a sporty sedan.

Suzuki Mighty Deck Minicar Concept

The MIGHTY DECK is a new, fun-oriented minicar with a canvas top and an open load deck that can be repositioned for diverse purposes.

An “urban/outdoor” concept is embodied by features that free people to move between contrasting situations and mind sets: city and nature; home and away; work and leisure or relaxed and playful.

Wide-ranging functionality including an automatic raise/lower function for the open deck accommodates lifestyle situations ranging from daily life to leisure.

Suzuki Air Triser Minivan Concept

The Air Triser is a new-concept three-row compact minivan within a manageable body size, it offers a cabin where roominess and smart seat configurability embody the concept of a private lounge.

While the Air Triser is parked, the seats can be configured in a relaxation mode (where the seats face each other) or in a lounge mode (where the seats form a U-shape sofa). Users can enjoy media content from a smartphone on a large format display that extends from one of the B-pillars up to the roof line.

The extent to which the Air Triser enables users to enjoy their time together not only on the move but also while they’re stationary makes it unprecedented among minivans.

The BMW M4 GTS improves on the potential of the BMW M4 Coupe to reach impressive new levels. With its competition genes clearly to the fore, the new model has its sights set squarely on the race track – yet it is also equipped for life on the road. The special edition is limited to a production run of 700 units and celebrates the 30th anniversary of the BMW M3, which has been in production since 1986.

The BMW M4 GTS highlights the innovative talents of the BMW M engineers with technologies for the turbocharged six-cylinder unit  such as water injection – which increases output significantly to 368 kW/500 hp (fuel consumption: 8.3 l/100 km [34 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions: 194 g/km)* – and intelligent lightweight design, which delivers an outstanding weight-to-power ratio of 3.0 kg/hp. Rear lights with OLED (organic light-emitting diode) technology make their series-production debut in this sharpest of all BMW M4 variants.