The Next Frontier: Inside Toyota's Groundbreaking Lunar Cruiser Project

Moon Cruiser - Toyota's Lunar Cruiser represents a remarkable leap in space exploration technology, aligning with NASA's ambitious Artemis mission. The Artemis project, a collaborative effort between NASA and various international partners, aims to establish a sustainable human presence on the moon and pave the way for future missions to Mars and beyond.

The Toyota Lunar Cruiser, a specialized vehicle designed for lunar surface exploration, has been in development since 2019. (Picture from: CNN)

The Lunar Cruiser, developed in partnership with Japan's JAXA and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, is not just a futuristic concept but a tangible step towards unlocking the mysteries of our celestial neighbor. Its design, incorporating a pressurized vehicle system, is tailored to withstand the harsh lunar environment, including extreme temperatures, vacuum conditions, radiation exposure, and the abrasive lunar dust.

The Lunar Cruiser developed in collaboration with Japan's JAXA and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, represents more than just a futuristic concept—it's a tangible stride towards unraveling the mysteries of our celestial neighbor. (Picture from: CNN)

What sets the Lunar Cruiser apart is its fuel cell movement system, a cutting-edge technology that utilizes hydrogen produced using sunlight. This sustainable energy source not only powers the vehicle but also offers a potential solution for long-duration missions in space.

One of the key features of the Lunar Cruiser is its versatility. Capable of transporting two astronauts and covering up to 20 kilometers per day, it serves as a mobile base for a range of exploration activities. From surveying the lunar surface to prospecting for valuable resources near the moon's south pole, the Lunar Cruiser plays a crucial role in expanding our understanding of Earth's satellite.

The design of Toyota's Lunar Cruiser includes a pressurized vehicle system, ensuring resilience against the harsh lunar conditions like extreme temperatures, vacuum, radiation, and abrasive dust. (Picture from: CNN)

Moreover, the vehicle's adaptability extends to its role as a habitat for astronauts. With the ability to function as a camper, providing a habitable environment without the need for bulky spacesuits, it enhances the safety and comfort of lunar missions.

Looking ahead, the Lunar Cruiser's planned lifespan of 10 years and an estimated mileage of 100,000 kilometers underscore its durability and reliability for long-term lunar exploration missions. As NASA and its international partners gear up for manned missions to the moon in the coming years, the Lunar Cruiser stands as a testament to human ingenuity and collaborative innovation in the realm of space exploration.

In essence, Toyota's Lunar Cruiser represents a bold vision for the future of space exploration—a vision fueled by sustainable technology, international cooperation, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge beyond our planet's bounds. As we embark on this extraordinary journey to the moon and beyond, the Lunar Cruiser serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, symbolizing humanity's boundless curiosity and quest for discovery in the vast expanse of space. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GLOBAL TOYOTA ]

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Unveiling the High-Performance Hydrogen Electric Mission H24 Concept

HydrogenBeast Candidate - In the realm of supercars and high-performance vehicles, collaborations often pave the way for groundbreaking innovations. Mission H24, in partnership with the Automobile Club de l’Ouest and GreenGT, is at the forefront of such advancements, introducing a cutting-edge hydrogen electric prototype poised to redefine racing as we know it.

Mission H24 has revealed a new as yet unnamed hydrogen electric prototype concept that will begin track testing in 2025 and is projected to be significantly faster than its current model. (Picture from: AutoSport)

The genesis of this revolutionary concept traces back to Mission H24's earlier endeavors with the LMPH2G hydrogen concept, making waves with its debut and subsequent track sessions. Fast forward to the present, and the H24 prototype emerges, boasting a revamped powertrain and a promise of unparalleled performance.

The new car hailed by Mission H24 co-president Jean-Michel Bouresche as “the next exciting step in our move towards zero-carbon motorsport” is planned to weigh 1300kg, and produce 320km/h with a stated aim of being among the top entries in the LMGT3 class. (Picture from: AutoSport)

This journey hasn't just been about building a faster car; it's been a testament to collaborative ingenuity. The ACO's dedicated efforts in creating a hydrogen category for Le Mans reflect a broader industry shift towards sustainable racing technologies. Toyota's anticipation of this change further underscores the significance of Mission H24's endeavors.

The Mission H24's new car will be powered by a single electric motor, with a maximum power output of 650kW, up from 350kW on the H24 while saving 18kg, and a battery with a maximum output of 400kW. (Picture from: MotorSport)

With meticulous testing and refinement, Mission H24 has fine-tuned its prototype, shifting focus towards enhancing performance while maintaining a commitment to environmental consciousness. The result? A lighter, faster, and more efficient racing machine ready to take on the challenges of competitive racing.

The enthusiasm from industry leaders like ACO President Pierre Fillon and GreenGT's technical director, Bassel Aslan, further validates the potential of hydrogen technology in offering a cleaner, greener alternative to traditional fuels.

For efficiency, the Mission H24's new car will only have two hydrogen tanks supplied by Plastic Omnium, instead of the three in the H24, with optimised weight distribution as a result. (Picture from: AutoSport)

Looking ahead, the upcoming ADESS chassis promises even greater capabilities, incorporating fan input and advanced technologies to push the boundaries of high-performance racing. With optimized weight distribution and enhanced power output, the new Mission H24 prototype is primed to set new standards on the track.

In summary, Mission H24's latest endeavor isn't just about speed; it's a bold step towards sustainable racing, blending innovation, efficiency, and environmental responsibility. As hydrogen takes center stage in competitive motorsport, get ready to witness a historic shift towards a cleaner, greener future on the world's most iconic tracks. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOSPORT | MOTORSPORT ]

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Rare Gems: It's only the 1956 Mercury XM Turnpike Cruiser

We're sorry, If you are looking for 'Il Mostro,' jump here. 

⛔ Hidden GEMS 💣 - The following article is about Mercury, a brand of mid-priced automobiles produced by American manufacturer Ford Motor Company from 1938 to 2011, was created by Edsel Ford in 1938 to bridge the gap between Ford and Lincoln model lines. Its main competitors were Buick and Oldsmobile from General Motors, as well as DeSoto and Chrysler from Chrysler Corporation.

The 1956 Mercury XM Turnpike Cruiser, constructed by Ghia at a cost of $80,000, significantly influenced and propelled the styling of the all-new 1957 Mercury line. (Picture from: Carscoops)

During the 1950s, Mercury showcased a series of impressive concept models that captured the attention of automotive enthusiasts worldwide. Notably, the Mercury XM 800 debuted in 1954, followed by the Mercury XM Turnpike Cruiser in 1956, which polarized American car enthusiasts with its innovative design.

The 1956 Mercury XM Turnpike Cruiser show car while sat on display at the 1956 Cleveland Auto Show. (Picture from: Motorcities.org)

Led by John Najjar, the Ford Motor Company design team initially named the concept car the Mandalay in 1954. Jack Reith, a Ford executive, recognized its potential and advocated for further development. The team, including Elwood Engel, Gene Bordinat, Don DeLaRossa, and Larry Shinoda, joined to refine the design.

The front end of the 1956 Mercury XM Turnpike Cruiser featured a sculpted grille with twin jet pods and included attractive transparent roof panels that could be raised or lowered for both drivers and passengers. (Picture from: Carscoops)

Crafted by Ghia of Italy at a significant cost of $80,000, the 1956 Mercury XM Turnpike Cruiser became a symbol of show car styling that influenced the all-new 1957 Mercury line. Despite Ford Motor Company's vision of it as an experimental car anticipating future automotive needs, the 1957 Mercury faced challenges in the market.

The 1956 Mercury XM Turnpike Cruiser' cabin boasted four bucket seats with two-tone leather upholstery. (Picture from: Carscoops)

The 1956 Mercury XM-Turnpike Cruiser featured a unique transparent roof panel and a plastic "butterfly" top, offering a blend of futuristic design elements. Its front end showcased a sculpted grille with twin jet pods and V-shaped taillights, alluding to its innovative styling direction.

The 1956 Mercury XM Turnpike Cruiser powered bya a 312 CID Y Block V8 engine and Merc-O-Matic transmission. (Picture from: Carscoops)

Inside, the show car boasted four bucket seats with two-tone leather upholstery, powered by a 312 CID Y Block V8 engine and Merc-O-Matic transmission. Its debut at the 1956 Chicago Auto Show marked it as a "preview of the future."

The 1956 Mercury XM Turnpike Cruiser's rear-end adorned with a unique V-shaped taillights, alluding to its innovative styling direction. (Picture from: Carscoops)

Over the years, the show car endured storage and damage until restoration enthusiast Tom Maruska acquired it in 2017, investing significantly to restore it to its original condition. Maruska's dedication reflects the enduring appreciation for automotive design history.

In essence, the 1956 Mercury XM Turnpike Cruiser remains a pivotal chapter in automotive design, embodying innovation and timeless styling that continues to inspire admiration among enthusiasts and historians alike. *** [EKA [09112020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARSTYLING.RU | CARSCOOPS | MOTORCITIES.ORG | KUSTOMRAMA ]

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Pagani Alisea: A Milestone Collaboration for the 25th Anniversary with IED Torino

Study Design Car - Celebrating milestones can lead to remarkable innovations, especially in the automotive world. Pagani Automobili's collaboration with 24 budding designers from IED Torino is a testament to this spirit of creativity and celebration. Together, they birthed the Pagani Alisea, a concept hypercar that pushes the boundaries of design and engineering.

The Pagani Alisea hypercar concept, a collaborative endeavor between Pagani Automobili and 24 emerging designers from IED Torino, exemplifies groundbreaking advancements in design and engineering. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

The journey of the Alisea began with the vision of these young designers, enrolled in the Master's Course in Transport Design at IED Torino. Their partnership with Modena-based premium automaker Pagani was immersive, spanning from initial sketches to the digital 3D model and culminating in the creation of a full-scale prototype. This collaboration bridged the realms of academia and industry, fostering a space for innovation and fresh perspectives.

One of the Pagani Alisea's striking aspect is its sleek silhouette, reminiscent of Pagani's iconic Zonda. (Picture from: id.Motor1)

One striking aspect of the Alisea is its sleek silhouette, reminiscent of Pagani's iconic Zonda. However, the design team at IED Torino infused unique elements, such as a lowered roofline and refined bodywork, to carve out a distinct identity for the hypercar. The absence of side scoops, a departure from traditional supercar design, adds a touch of minimalist elegance while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency.

Although the current model of Pagani Alisea doesn't reveal its interior, renderings offer a glimpse inside, showcasing a manual gearbox with three pedals and a modern floating pod design for the gauge cluster and center screen. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

While the current model of the Pagani Alisea keeps its interior under wraps, conceptual renderings provide a sneak peek, highlighting a manual gearbox with three pedals and a contemporary floating pod design for the gauge cluster and center screen.

The lack of side scoops, breaking away from conventional supercar aesthetics, introduces a hint of minimalist elegance while upholding aerodynamic efficiency. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

Under the hood, the Alisea retains Pagani's tradition of performance excellence with an AMG V12 engine. This blend of power and artistry underscores Pagani's commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering. The bubble canopy, inspired by endurance racers of the past, adds a nostalgic flair while embracing modern design sensibilities.

Underneath its sleek exterior, the Alisea maintains Pagani's legacy of exceptional performance, powered by an AMG V12 engine. (Picture from: Automoto.id)

Critics may question whether the Alisea paves the way for a future Pagani hypercar or falls short in terms of luxury and originality. However, it's essential to recognize that concepts like the Alisea serve as stepping stones for innovation. They spark conversations, inspire new ideas, and pave the way for the evolution of automotive design.

In essence, the Pagani Alisea stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and creative synergy. It reminds us that celebrating milestones isn't just about looking back; it's about forging ahead into uncharted territories of possibility. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARSCOOPS | ID.MOTOR1 ]

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Breaking Boundaries: The Austin Zanda Concept Car by Harris Mann

Study Design - Concept cars have always fascinated car enthusiasts worldwide with their futuristic designs and advanced technology. Among these innovative creations is the Austin Zanda, a product of British Leyland that debuted in 1969 and quickly became a symbol of cutting-edge design.

The Austin Zanda is a compact sports car concept showcasing Pressed Steel's advanced CAD design techniques and featuring innovative elements like the transverse engine layout borrowed from the Austin Maxi. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)

The Austin Zanda's story begins in 1968 when British Leyland's styling studio, led by Roy Haynes and Harris Mann, embarked on a groundbreaking journey. This marked the birth of the Zanda, a compact sports car concept showcasing Pressed Steel's advanced CAD design techniques and featuring innovative elements like the transverse engine layout borrowed from the Austin Maxi.

The Austin Zanda Concept made its debut at the prestigious 1969 British and New York Motorshows, earning praise for its groundbreaking design and incorporation of modern materials such as glass-fibre reinforced polyester. (Picture from: Carstyling.ru)

Harris Mann, already renowned for his work on iconic models like the Allegro, Princess, and TR7, brought his visionary talent to the Austin Zanda. Despite the mixed reception of some of his earlier designs, Mann's ability to create captivating and unconventional automotive forms was evident in the Zanda's bold and boundary-pushing design.

The Austin Zanda Concept marked Harris Mann's earliest venture into wedge-shaped designs, epitomizing, as another British Leyland advert noted, the future of automotive design. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)

The Austin Zanda debuted at the esteemed 1969 British and New York Motorshows, lauded for its pioneering design and use of modern materials like glass-fibre reinforced polyester. It was among stylist Harris Mann's earliest wedge-shaped designs, symbolizing, as another British Leyland advert put it, the shape of things to come. This not only highlighted Mann's creativity but also British Leyland's dedication to pushing automotive design boundaries.

The Austin Zanda Concept stands as a testament to Mann's visionary talent, proudly displayed at the Motor Heritage Museum in Gaydon, Warwickshire. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)

Mann's success with the Zanda did not go unnoticed, earning him recognition within British Leyland's senior management circles and leading to future projects like the ADO 21. Today, the Austin Zanda stands as a testament to Mann's visionary talent, displayed proudly in the Motor Heritage Museum in Gaydon, Warwickshire.

The Austin Zanda's legacy serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of innovative automotive design and honors designers like Harris Mann who dared to reimagine the automotive landscape, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARSTYLING.RU | ALLCARINDEX | BRITISHMUSEUM.CO.UK ]

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The Forgotten Ghia's touch: The Sleek and Powerful Oldsmobile Thor Concept

Rare ONES - Automotive design is a thrilling arena where imagination and ingenuity intertwine, giving birth to vehicles that defy conventional norms. While enthusiasts often celebrate the iconic sports cars from major brands, it's the contributions of third-party entities like Ghia that inject a rebellious charm into the automotive narrative. One such remarkable creation was the Oldsmobile Thor, unveiled at the 1967 Turin Motor Show, a testament to Ghia's prowess in design innovation.

The Oldsmobile Thor unveiled at the 1967 Turin Motor Show, a testament to Ghia's prowess in design innovation.. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)

Commissioned by Bill Mitchell at General Motors, the Oldsmobile Thor was a brainchild of Ghia's design studio, built upon the robust chassis of the Oldsmobile Toronado – then the largest and most potent front-wheel-drive model of its time. Giorgetto Giugiaro, during his tenure at Ghia, lent his visionary touch to the project, shaping a vehicle that embodied sleekness and power within its design ethos.

The Oldsmobile Thor was conceived by Giorgetto Giugiaro during his time at the Ghia design studio, utilizing the sturdy chassis of the Oldsmobile Toronado. (Picture from: Express Cars UK)

The Oldsmobile Toronado, preceding the Thor, marked a pivotal moment in American automotive history as the first front-wheel-drive car since the Cord in 1937. Giugiaro's design expertise, evident in the Thor's elongated elliptical form, seamlessly integrated with Tom Tjaarda's subsequent design cues, added layers of sophistication and dynamism to the final product.

One of the standout features of the Thor is its front-wheel-drive configuration, which houses a powerful 7-liter, naturally aspirated V8 engine under a streamlined hood. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)

One of the Thor's standout features is its front-wheel-drive configuration, housing a robust 7-liter, naturally aspirated V8 engine under a streamlined hood. The frontal perspective, with its understated grille and cleverly concealed double headlamps, exudes an aura of elegance while hinting at the powerhouse within.

The classic American 2+2 layout of the Oldsmobile Thor boasts ample space and comfort, featuring a driver-centric cockpit with intuitive instrumentation that embodies the era's blend of functionality and luxury. (Picture from: VWVortex)

Inside, the Oldsmobile Thor boasts a classic American 2+2 layout, offering ample space and comfort. The driver-centric cockpit, adorned with intuitive instrumentation, reflects a blend of functionality and luxury characteristic of its era. Despite the design innovations, the Thor retained the essence of the Toronado, with minor adjustments like a shortened wheelbase to enhance agility. 

Apologies, as this car is rare, we couldn't find any related videos. However, you can enjoy this video featuring a rendered 2024 Oldsmobile Toronado.

The Oldsmobile Thor's legacy extends beyond its debut, as it found a resting place at the De Tomaso factory museum until 2004, showcasing its enduring appeal to automotive enthusiasts and historians alike. This timeless creation by Ghia continues to inspire future generations of designers and enthusiasts, bridging the gap between innovation and heritage in the ever-evolving automotive landscape. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | CARSTYLING.RU | LOTUSESPRITTURBO | VWVORTEX ]

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