Rare Concepts Most of the cars that we talk about in this series of articles devoted to forgotten concepts are in fact not so unfamiliar, on the contrary, many people remember them well, especially when they have given life in some way or form. another to production models.
For the Mitsubishi HSR, on the other hand, things are different, because although we are dealing in this subject not with one but six prototypes, presented at regular intervals of two years one after the other on the occasion of the Tokyo Auto Shows between 1987 and 1997, none of them left their mark. Too bad, because while it is true that they did not directly become production models, many of the innovations baptized by this family have since appeared on production cars.
As quoted of Wikipedia, the meaning of HSR acronym varied over the years. The first iteration meant Hi-Speed Running Research, the second Highly Sophisticated-transport Research, and the third Human Science Research. All of the HSR acronym means could not only imply aesthetic refinement, indeed, each of the concepts (all designed by the same hand, that of Akinori Nakanishi) had equally innovative technologies, from the electronic control of the chassis to the steering on the four wheels, from active aerodynamics to stability control and small supercharged engines, all of which are very rare or have not yet happened on production cars at the time.
The first concept car of this series was made by Mitsubishi in 1987 and was called the Mitsubishi HSR Concept (HSR means as 'Hi-speed Running Research'). It was made as a show car featured with the Mitsubishi's integrated electronic systems offering automatic control of drive train, suspension, steering, brakes, and driving position according to driving conditions or weather. The car was powered by a 2.0-litre 16-valve turbocharged engine capable spew out power of 291 horsepower, and claimed to be run up to a maximum speed of 300 kph.
The second generation called the Mitsubishi HSR-II Concept (HSR means as 'Highly Sophisticated-transport Research') made by the Japanese automaker in 1989. It had a heavy emphasis on active aerodynamics (such the independent suspension and electronically-adjustable dampers all around), coupled with a series of movable fins and spoilers offering a drag factor which varied from 0.20 to 0.40 depending on setup. Besides the HSR-II is packing a twin-turbo V6 along with 4-wheel steering and 4-wheel drive as well.
For your info, the HSR-II Concept could be found and driven virtually in the racing games titled of theGran Turismo 4, Gran Turismo 5 and Gran Turismo 6 under the Sony's PlayStation consoles.
The third concept car to bear the HSR name is built back in 1991 and known as the Mitsubishi HSR-III Concept under design themes of "Human Scale Technology" and "Small is beautiful and continued the active aerodynamics theme of the HSR-II, but with the addition of flexible skin on the rear spoiler dubbed an "elastic aerotail. It was powered by an 1.6-litre V6 6A10 engine (known as the world's smallest mass-produced V6 engine) capable burst power of 177 hp. Indeed, the HSR-III shifting from the overtly sporting and powerful earlier HSRs, however focused on cleanliness and recyclability so all of the car body parts marked for ease of recycling.
As for the fourth of the HSR (HSR means as 'Human Science Research') series is made by Mitsubishi back in 1993. It is named Mitsubishi HSR-IV Concept powered y a modulated displacement version of the 1.6-litre V6 engine capable burst power of 177 horsepower. Besides the four-wheel-drive sports concept car also featuring an all-wheel anti-lock braking system.
However, the fifth version (as seen as the first picture above), the one presented by Mitsubishi at the 1995 edition of the international event, had something more: it came with a slightly different appearance, adjustable ground clearance and bodywork. convertible with a semi-transparent retractable roof that made it go from coupe to roadster. In short, a coupe-convertible-crossover ahead of its time. While, the Mitsubishi HSR-V Concept, in particular, was equipped with first 1.8-liter gasoline engine with direct injection, the ancestor of the famous GDi family of Mitsubishi launched the following year on the Galant and then the Carisma.
Meanwhile in 1997, the Japanese automaker made an evolution in design on the Mitsubishi HSR-VI Concept, which powered by the 2.4-litre version of the GDI engine and also had four-wheel steering, active yaw, traction controls, even an early automated driving system ('Automated Driving' and 'Driver Operated' Modes, two operating modes suited to the traffic environment of the near future).
The HSR-VI Concept's cabin lowers to its lowest position to insure a low total overall height of 1,220 mm. This perfectly matches the overall width of 1,870 mm to create a bold, stable appearance. At the same time, the front end profile is compact to greatly reduce air resistance. When in this mode, the styling of HSR-VI is worthy of the ultra-high efficiency and next generation personal transportation. That's the final concept, since then the HSR series is no longer made by the Japanese manufacturer.😏
As for the design, in our opinion the Mitsubishi HSR-VI Concept was less attractive and had much like “Blade Runner” in boxy shape. And we preferred to the Mitsubishi HSR-V Concept. Finally, which one do you think has the best design from all the models from the HSR series above and give your opinion on the comment collum. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | JALOPNIK | AUTONETMAGZ | WIKIPEDIA | BYRI.NET | CAR-REV-DAILY ]
New Spectator As is being intensively carried out by the automotive world players to create renewable fueled vehicles that will replace the conventional fossil fueled vehicles. As result many vehicles have been developed by using renewable fuels such as hydrogen fuel. Not only that, sometimes it also creates an unexpected sensation as the fruit of different views and business rivalries.
The SCG 009 Concept is believed to be able to cover the distance from New York to Los Angeles under a fully filled hydrogen fuel. (Picture from: Carbuzz)
As we could be saw on the early of 2021, the development of this environmentally friendly vehicle arosed to be personal feud between Jim Glickenhaus and Elon Musk after the CEO of Tesla thrown controvertial statements in his Twitter back in 2020 about the use of hydrogen fuel cells in concept vehicles. Even Elon Musk calls the fuel cell technology used in hydrogen-powered cars as "fool sells."
To respose the Elon Musk's negative opinion, then Jim Glickenhaus through his official Facebook account released an image of a hydrogen concept car called the SCG 009 Concept, and wrote, "SCG 009 Concept, Liquid Hydrogen, Fuel Cell. Range NY-LA, One's grasp should always exceed one's reach." The man who has known own the many legendary prancing horse badged cars such Ferrari P4/5 has designed a hydrogen-powered supercar with unusual appearance compared to the current sports car or supercar.
The
SCG 008 aka the 004 'Mini Boot' eligible to race in the Baja 1000 and the Paris to Dakar Series. (Picture from: Carbuzz)
Well, Jim Glickenhaus's auto company designed the SCG 009 Concept under a classic wedge-design is reminiscent us to old-school sportscar figures such as the Lamborghini Countach and Lancia Stratos while the futuristic look is only felt in the large windshield and its large wings at rear.
The Glickenhaus Boot has debuted at the 2019 Baja 1000 rally and won in class 2 of the event, completing the off-road endurance race. (Picture from: Carbuzz)
Unfortunately the Scuderia Cameron Glickenhaus (SCG) did not provide any detailed specifications regarding the hydrogen-powered super car. It's just that Jim Glickenhaus claims that the car will be able to travel the distance from New York to Los Angeles under a fully filled hydrogen fuel. For your info that the distance from New York to Los Angeles is 3,940 kilometers.
Elon Musk's disparaging statements not only sparked a feud between him and Jim Glickenhaus also made Glickenhaus furious and challenged him to bring his Tesla Cybertruck for fight in prestigious offroad events such as the Baja 1000 against the Glickenhaus' tough Baja rally car known as 'The Boot' by using power of the hydrogen fuel cell.
It seems that Jim Glickenhaus seriously wants to immediately prove that hydrogen cannot be underestimated as one of the potential environmentally friendly alternative fuels other than electricity. And for those of you whose also interested in developing an environmentally friendly vehicle from SCG like this, you can go here. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SCG | HKMOTORCARS | CARBUZZ ]
Beyond Zero Back to talking about the Toyota cars, due to recently the Japanese automaker launched a new electric car called the Toyota bZ4X complete with its specification datas, variants, and prices. And according to the automaker, the 'bZ' name carried by the car is an abbreviation of Beyond Zero has the meaning of the manufacturer's vision beyond zero to create future vehicles that are very environmentally friendly.
The Toyota bZ4X has the meaning of the manufacturer's vision beyond zero to create vehicles that are very environmentally friendly. (Picture from: Carmudi)
In addition, the Toyota bZ4X is the first Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) of Toyota built under the e-Toyota New Global Architecture (e-TNGA) platform which is being seriously developed with its compatriot automaker company Subaru Corporation, where the two companies are trying to create a BEV vehicle with a low center of gravity. Even the ability of this car is also designed to be able to devour off-road terrain which is the hallmark of SUVs.
The Toyota bZ4X's interior presents a slick blend of the latest technology with the make it easy concept for users, which can be seen from the instrument panel display, various button operation features including transmission, to the entertainment device screen. (Picture from: Kompas)
The Toyota bZ4X is also equipped with the latest generation of Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) and also the use of the latest body structure. So, what are the specifications of this Toyota bZ4X? On the paper, the Toyota bZ4X has dimensions of 4,690 mm in length, 1,860 mm in width and 1,650 in height which includes the antenna. While, its wheelbase reaches 2,850 mm with a cabin length of 1,940 mm. In addition, the roof is also available with a normal roof (solar roof) or panoramic roof which can be selected according to consumer desires.
The Toyota bZ4X still maintains various mechanical systems and combines them with modern technology so that it gives rise to a modern impression but still unique to Toyota.(Picture from: Carmudi)
According to Autocar, the normal roof cabin height reaches 1,160 mm, while the panoramic version has a cabin height of 1,145 mm. This means that in our opinion the car has dimensions that are quite compact. It is also mentioned that the Toyota bZ4X comes with a choice of front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. As for the legs, the front suspension of the Toyota bZ4X uses coil spring struts in the front while the rear gets double wishbones and ventilated brakes all around.
The Toyota bZ4X is the first Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) of Toyota built under the e-Toyota New Global Architecture (e-TNGA) platform which is being seriously developed with its compatriot automaker company Subaru Corporation. (Picture from: Kompas)
Furthermore the car with a capacity of 5 passengers is powered with an AC synchronous electric generator type. So for the front-wheel drive version has a maximum output of 150 kW, while the AWD version reaches 80 kW. Both types of bZ4X drives are powered by a 355 volt Lithium-ion battery. While the total power generated reaches 71.4 kWh. According to Toyota, the battery can be charged up to 80 percent in 30 minutes, and for the car's charging can also be done using solar panels embedded in the roof of the car (if attached).
The Toyota bZ4X is powered by an AC synchronous electric generator type also has a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 71.4 kWh. (Picture from: Kompas)
According to claims issued by Toyota, this electric-powered car can accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in just 8.4 seconds for the Front-Wheels Drive (FWD) version and 7.7 seconds for the All-Wheels Drive (AWD) version. Toyota also guarantees that the specifications of the bZ4X battery are very safe thanks to the use of high-resistance coolant which can prevent fires caused by electrical short circuits.
The Toyota bZ4X's chassis is made with a lower center of gravity and a higher level of rigidity, in order to provide a pleasant driving feeling. (Picture from: Carmudi)
This Toyota electric-powered car has a turning radius of 5.7 meters and reportedly weighs 2,195 kg for front-wheel drive and 2,275 kg for the AWD version. Now, with that weight, the front-wheel drive version can cover a distance of up to 500 km, while the AWD version can cover a distance of 460 km.
Not only specification data, the Japanese automotive giant has also released the price of the Toyota bZ4X which will reportedly be sold for the first time in the UK with a price tag starting from £41,950 (around Rp.790 million) to the most expensive variant which is priced at around £51,550 (equivalent to Rp.900 million). *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TOYOTA | AUTOCAR ]
Season Greetings Even though it comes from the 1960s era where beautiful classic sports cars triumphed on world racing tracks, the Ferrari 330 P4 of 1967 is still an exotic race car of the Maranello-based automaker with an appearance that seems to mix the design of an airplane with a race car, the Ferrari 330 P4 is not only an attractive car, it is also one of the easiest to drive.
The 1967 Ferrari 330 P4 is an exotic race car of the Maranello-based automaker with an appearance that seems to mix the design of an airplane with a race car and said to be the easiest one to drive . (Picture from: Ferrari)
As quoted from Ferrari' sites, the car with styling look very similar to the previous 330 P3 was powered by a V12 engine that had been radically redesigned by Franco Rocchi. The most obvious modification was the introduction of a three-valve cylinder head (two inlet and one exhaust). While its fuel feed was provided by a Lucas injection system.
The 1-2-3 brilliant winning finish moment of the Ferrari 330 P3/4, 330 P4, and 412 P at the 24 Hours of Daytona 1967. (Picture from: SportsCarDigest)
Meanwhile its chassis was slightly shorter than the 330 P3’s, and the new suspension system improved roadholding. The car won numerous races and earned its place in the history books after a memorable 1-2-3 at Daytona 1967.
The 1967 Ferrari 330 P4 is built on a slightly shorter chassis than the 330 P3’s, and the new suspension system improved roadholding. (Picture from: Otoblitz)
However, the Maranello-based premium car manufacturer has only ever made the 330 P4 model as many as 3 units, which are equipped with a V12 engine with a capacity of 3,967 cc (242 CI) and coupled with an addition of the same fuel injection system from the previous P3 model. So made the Ferrari 330 P4 can boost power to 450 hp (335 kW), and can reach a top speed of 210 mph or 338 kph.
The
1967 Ferrari 330 P4 is powered by a V12 engine with a capacity of 3,967
cc (242 CI) and coupled with an addition of the same fuel injection
system from the previous P3 model. (Picture from: Otoblitz)
According to Nick Longhi, a mechanical engineer and instructor of the Ferrari Corso Pilota who said, “Almost anyone can jump in (this car) and immediately able to drive it. The 330 P4, combined with its high performance and stunning looks, makes it one of the most admired cars in the world.”
The
1967 Ferrari 330 P4 can boost power to 450 hp (335 kW), and can reach a top speed of 210 mph or 338 kph. (Picture from: HD-CarWallpaper)
Especially, because this Ferrari 330 P4 is the only original version
left in the world. Well, here's a video of his appearance from
the Petrolicious's YouTube account. Enjoy!
And today, it was from this car that then inspired Ferrari in November 2021 to launch the third car of the Icona series, named the Ferrari Daytona SP3 which was intended to pay homage to the legendary 1-2-3 brilliant winning finish at the 24 Hours of Daytona 1967 that helped earn the marque its unparalleled motor sport status. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FERRARI | SPORTSCARDIGEST ]
Electric HyperBeast We should be grateful that our world has many unique and exotic cars from various manufacturers around the world. Of course, not all of these manufacturers you have heard of. One of them may be a British automotive company called Arash Motor Company.
Arash Motor Company has shared photos previewing its first electric hypercar dubbed the Arash AFX. (Picture from: CarBuzz)
The British automotive startup was founded in 1999, and previoulsly known as Farboud before changing its name to Arash in 2006. The first Arash-made car to be launched in 2010 as the Arash AF10, an insane hypercar powered by hybrid powertrain is consited of a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine and four electric motors capable of producing a combined power up to 2,800 horsepower.
The Arash AFX's front end is vaguely reminiscent of McLaren, while the side profile looks like it was inspired by the Porsche 918 Spyder. (Picture from: CarBuzz)
Its more accessible successor is named the Arash AF8 which is known to be powered by a 7.0 liter LS7 V8 engine capable of blowing up to 550 horsepower. Like many the world's supercar manufacturers today, Arash is also getting ready developed the electric-powered car. And recently on social media, Arash was seen sharing some preview photos of his first electric hypercar dubbed Arash AFX.
The Arash AFX electric hypercar has spacy room for two passengers who sit in racing backet seats equipped with four point harnesses. (Picture from: CarBuzz)
It's a shame details are scarce, but Arash Motor company has confirmed the new hypercar will be all-electric, making it to be a potential rival to the Rimac Nevera, Lotus Evija and Pininfarina Battista. One of the most striking design features is the shark fin that runs across the roof. On the front is vaguely reminiscent of a McLaren, while its side profile looks like it was inspired by the Porsche 918 Spyder.
The Arash AFX has many aerodynamic features embeded in its bodywork such a shark fin and rear diffuser. (Picture from: CarBuzz)
Then for the interior, this Arash-made hypercar has spacy room for two passengers who sit in racing backet seats equipped with four point harnesses. There are also two screens mounted on either side of the cabin in lieu of the traditional rearview mirrors.
The Arash AFX electric hypercar has the most striking design features is a shark fin that stretches across the roof. (Picture from: CarBuzz)
So far, Arash Motor Company has not revealed any performance specifications, although the British automotive startup has introduced the Arash Imperium electric hypercar concept at the 2021 Goodwood Festival of Speed event which is expected to be a preview from the Arash AFX.
Arash Motor Company has introduced the Arash Imperium electric hypercar concept at the 2021 Goodwood Festival of Speed event which is expected to be a preview from the Arash AFX. (Picture from: CarBuzz)
As it is known that the Arash Imperium electric powered hypercar will be consisted three versions, each with different power levels. The Imperium E gets one 800PS (600kW) electric motor. The Imperium gets two and the Imperium S gets four., so the highest Imperium S produces more than 3,200 hp. If the next Arash AFX has such similar specifications, it should be more powerful than the Rimac Nevera and Lotus Evija.😆
Many people are usually skeptical when an unknown automotive startup company announces a new electric-powered hypercar, but for the Arash Motor Company were different, we believe this British automaker can make it happen because it has been building incredibly powerful supercars for more than 20 years. Now, let's just wait for the appearance of the Arash AFX electric hyperbeast. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARBUZZ | GOODWOOD ]
The Legend is backToyota Motor Corporation (TMC) has finally officially introduced the latest generation of Toyota Land Cruiser 300 as a continuation generation of the 200 series, and it turns out that the Japanese automotive giant chose Australia as the launch site because that's where the biggest market for the company's SUV is.
Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) has finally officially introduced the latest generation of Toyota Land Cruiser 300 as a continuation generation of the 200 series. (Picture from: Carmudi)
As qouted of PaulTan.org, Sean Hanley, Vice President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations of Toyota Australia said, “Toyota would like to express its gratitude to consumers. This is a month full of challenges, Covid-19 has brought production to the Land Cruiser in Japan and several other countries to a halt."
The Toyota Land Cruiser 300 generation is consisted in six variants with two flagship variants available of the GR Sport and Sahara ZX, While the other four variants (GX, GXL, VX and Sahara) are standard versions. (Picture from: PaulTan.org)
The Japanese automotive giant said it would soon produce the Land Cruiser in the near future. As for the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 generation is planned to be present in six variants. With two variants are the flagship version available in the Sahara ZX and GR Sport trims which are more focused on off-road. While the other four variants (GX, GXL, VX and Sahara) are standard versions that have been sold in Australia previously.
The Toyota Land Cruiser 300 (in pictured the GR Sport) using a multimedia monitor that includes a four-camera system, and then there's a dedicated 12.3-inch off-road information screen. (Picture from: Carmudi)
All-new Toyota Land Cruiser 300 has two engine options, namely a 3,500 cc twin-turbo V6 petrol engine and a 3,300 cc V6 twin-turbo diesel engine, coupled with a 10-speed automatic transmission.. which is distributed to 4-wheel drive (4WD) while driven at any terrains.
The Toyota Land Cruiser 300 (in pictured the GR Sport) reportedly developed according to the recommendations of the Toyota motorsport team competing in the Dakar Rally. (Picture from: Carmudi)
In terms of appearance, the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 looks more elegant with body curves that look smooth and modern. Although it has been officially launched, reportedly, the Land Cruiser 300 production is a bit sluggish. Reportedly, it caused by a shortage of semiconductor supplies, so Toyota Australia has not said when consumers will get the unit.
The Toyota Land Cruiser 300 features a new double-wishbone rear suspension system as well as an optimized trailing-link rigid-axle rear suspension system. (Picture from: Carmudi)
However, the Japanese manufacturer remains committed to sending it to enthusiasts by the end of this year on the condition for those who buy this car will also be required to sign an agreement not to sell the car outside Australia.
The Toyota Land Cruiser 300 (in pictured the Sahara ZX)featured with a number of electronic features such as Lane Tracing Assist, electronic brake control, Torsen Limited Slip Differential (LSD), and six driving modes, namely Auto, Dirt, Sand, Mud, Deep Snow, and Rock. (Picture from: Carmudi)
Even Toyota will cancel orders to consumers if the consumer is found wanting to sell this car again. Toyota said this was done with the aim of maintaining the resale price of the Toyota Land Cruiser. That's could be understandably, due to the one of the toughest SUVs in the world is often to be the target for fans around the world.
Until now, there's not know yet when the all-new Toyota Land Cruiser 300 would be launched in other part of the globe. Well, for now on, get ready to welcome its presence only in Australia. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | PAULTAN.ORG ]
For the Mitsubishi HSR, on the other hand, things are different, because although we are dealing in this subject not with one but six prototypes, presented at regular intervals of two years one after the other on the occasion of the Tokyo Auto Shows between 1987 and 1997, none of them left their mark. Too bad, because while it is true that they did not directly become production models, many of the innovations baptized by this family have since appeared on production cars.
The HSR-VI Concept's cabin lowers to its lowest position to insure a low total overall height of 1,220 mm. This perfectly matches the overall width of 1,870 mm to create a bold, stable appearance. At the same time, the front end profile is compact to greatly reduce air resistance. When in this mode, the styling of HSR-VI is worthy of the ultra-high efficiency and next generation personal transportation. That's the final concept, since then the HSR series is no longer made by the Japanese manufacturer.😏
