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Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Monday, November 2, 2009
Toyota Hybrid X concept car The leading Hybrid Synergy Drive® technology.
0 comments Posted by Qcist at 9:45 AM
Hybrid X proposes a new design language for Toyota’s hybrid models while also acting as a technology showcase for future hybrid cars.
Created and developed by Toyota’s European styling centre ED² in the south of France, Hybrid X is a four-door, four-seat concept that is spacious and comfortable.It is a step closer to Toyota’s vision of the ultimate environmental driving technology.
Its design will influence the entire Toyota brand and its hybrid models in the future.A vision for future environmentally friendly motoring, the appearance of Hybrid X comes soon after Toyota announced it would build a hybrid Camry in Australia from 2010.
Hybrid X is the latest concept to demonstrate Toyota’s world-leading Hybrid Synergy Drive® technology, which is at the core of the company’s strategy to develop the ultimate eco-car.
The show car fits clearly within Toyota’s environmental strategy of offering sustainable mobility for modern families.
It has the dimensions of a conventional family car with an overall length of 4,500mm and wheelbase of 2,800mm. The width is 1,850mm and height 1,440mm.
It proposes unconventional creative solutions that will potentially become the signature points of a specific hybrid identity.
Hybrid X features a futuristic body shape that is dominated by two ‘U’ shapes created by the upper glass frame area and the unconventional A and C pillars.
Viewed from above, this gives the impression of a large X – hence the name of the concept, Hybrid X.
Dynamic hints of driving performance are provided by the customised 20-inch alloy wheels with ultra-low profile 225/40 R20 tyres.
LED headlamps are integrated into the dashboard and are now part of the interior of the car and can communicate information such as safety distances, acceleration and braking to other drivers and pedestrians.
The driver can set the ambience within the car, controlling sight, sound, touch and even smell.
A drive-by-wire steering pad features a central screen to relay information to the driver about the energy flow path, fuel consumption and gear position.
Space-saving seats are formed using injected foam techniques, which create comfort while reducing weight.
The two independent rear seats can swivel by 12 degrees to allow passengers to enjoy the scenery or conversation.
Acura ZDX Sport Car powered by a 3.7-liter VTEC® V-6 ,The first vehicle to be styled from start to finish in the new
0 comments Posted by Qcist at 9:40 AM
The all-new 2010 Acura ZDX will make its auto show debut as a production model on October 15, 2009, at the Orange County Auto Show,10/15/2009 – TORRANCE, Calif. Arriving this winter at Acura dealerships, the ZDX features dramatic styling, outstanding performance and the latest in advanced technology. The segment bending ZDX has stunning coupe-like styling with the added benefit of a commanding presence and flexible utility.
2010 Acura ZDXAll-glass panoramic roof stretches from the windshield to the tailgate – making it the longest continuous glass surface found in the automotive industry.
Rear door handles cleverly concealed within in the C-pillar to emphasize coupe-like styling.
Ultra-luxurious interior features a standard hand-stitched leather dash, door panels and sculpted center console.
The ZDX is powered by a 3.7-liter VTEC® V-6 that generates 300 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. Standard on the ZDX is Acura’s exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system that provides outstanding handling as well as excellent all-season capability.
Williams has confirmed that Rubens Barrichello will join the team for the 2010 season alongside Nico Hulkenberg who is promoted from his role as test and reserve driver. The team has already confirmed a switch from Toyota to Cosworth engines for next year.
Despite his success with Brawn this year, the impending acquisition of a stake in the team by Mercedes-Benz and the expected arrival of 2009 Williams driver Nico Rosberg, forced Barrichello to look elsewhere.
“Rubens needs no introduction,” said Frank Williams. “He is not only the most experienced driver in Formula One, but a passionate and talented driver who fought hard for the drivers’ championship this year.”
Having started his Formula One career with Jordan in 1993, his new deal will see him race for the Grove-based team, extending his F1 career to an astonishing 18 seasons and over 300 starts. He has finished second in the championship with Ferrari and third this year with Brawn GP.
Hulkenberg meanwhile is the protégé of Michael Schumacher’s manager Willi Weber and steps up to Formula One with impressive credentials having taken championship honours in Formula BMW ADAC, A1GP, F3 Euroseries and the GP2 championship.
The confirmation of the Williams line-up means that Toyota favourite Kazuki Nakajima has been dropped by the team after a disappointing second season.
“Nico Rosberg and Kazuki Nakajima remain our drivers until the end of 2009 and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their contribution to the team,” Williams continued. “Nico and Kazuki have represented AT&T Williams and our partners with dedication, discipline and skill and we wish them every success with their future endeavours.”
F1’s sole supplier of tyres announced today its decision to pull out of the sport after the 2010 season. 2010 marks the third year of Bridgestone’s exclusive supply contract with formula one, and a media statement said the Bridgestone Corporation in Japan decided not to seek an extension.
A disappointed Hiroshi Yasukawa, boss of the company’s motor racing programme, said the decision was about the redirection of “resources towards the further intensive development of those innovative technologies and strategic products which support the company’s goals and further enhance the company’s reputation as a technology leader.”
Bridgestone entered F1 in 1997 in competition with Goodyear, and later pitted its products against Michelin’s. It was the only supplier in 2007, then entering a contract to be the sole official supplier between 2008-2010.
“The company has benefited directly from its involvement in Formula One racing,” the tyre supplier stated. “The lessons learned through Bridgestone’s successful participation have translated into innovations that can be applied to the design and manufacture of tyres.
“In addition, its collaboration with F1 has contributed to increased brand awareness and the recognition of Bridgestone as a leader in the global tyre industry. Having achieved these goals, Bridgestone is now poised to take its technological and brand building efforts to the next level.”
