Tokyo Concept Cars: Green Machines

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Tokyo Concept Cars: Green Machines

by Shane Kite

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.

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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.

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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.

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