Toyota Sprinter Trueno AE86 diecast model arrived

My Toyota Sprinter Trueno AE86 model (earlier post) just arrived today! It should look nice next to the FT-86 G Sports Concept model... when that arrives.

Takayanagi Miluira: An electric Morgan made in Japan...

Today, Takayanagi revealed a micro EV (I have no idea how to describe it really) called Miluira (ミルイラ). The car has been developed in Hamamatsu and it could be used for renting it to tourists. In rural areas, where many petrol stations have closed and the bus service cost is high, a micro EV could be a good alternative.

The frame is made out of aluminium tubes and uses double-wishbone suspension. It is hand made of course, and the estimated sales price is 6,300,000 ¥. It's definitely one the weirdest "cars" I have ever seen...

[Source: Response]

Lexus LFA using JSR adhesive for CFRP

Lexus LFA's chassis and bodywork are constructed using Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer (CFRP), supplied by Toho Tenax, and bonding is achieved by using JSR's polyurethane adhesive. Despite the high cost, CFRP not only enables the car to have a much lower weight, but also provides high strength and rigidity. As a result, there is a very positive impact on the car's crash safety performance.

JSR's polyurethane adhesive has been selected for bonding due to its fatigue and impact resistance characteristics, as well as its peeling off adhesive power. Since the material can be selected to suit the application, ranging from soft to very hard, it contributes to design flexibility. This bonding method allows stress distribution and therefore, it provides high structural strength and improved durability.

[Source: Response]

MY11 NissanGT-R 0-100 km/h time is... unbelievable and official!

This is not so fresh news, if you have watched the video, although now it's official. Testing took place November 12th with a GT-R Pure edition. The car had all the standard equipment, including the factory fitted tires and wheels. So, if you haven't watched the video yet, 0-100 km/h in 3 seconds flat!!!

Next-gen Honda Civic (2HC) rendered

The next-gen Honda Civic 4-door, codenamed 2HC, has been caught almost undisguised (earlier post), and this photoshop work gives an even better idea of what to expect. Still very disappointing...

Some more photos of upcoming Suzuki Solio (YK8)

[Source: スズキプラザ松原＊plaza_club]

Honda reveals near production prototype BRIO for Asian markets

Honda has revealed in Thailand a near production prototype of its new small-sized vehicle for Asian markets. It's called BRIO and it is expected to go on sale in Thailand and India in 2011.

Honda will develop unique production versions for Thailand and India to reflect different customer needs in those markets. The Thai model is scheduled to be introduced in March 2011, achieving a fuel economy of around 5ℓ/100km. The starting price will be approximately 400,000 baht.

Despite its small dimensions (length 3,610mm x width 1,680mm x height 1,475 mm), efficient packaging has ensured enough cabin space.

I have to admit that I like it and perhaps Honda should consider bringing it in Europe as well.

Honda refreshes Jazz and adds CVT in Europe

Honda, not only will start selling the Jazz Hybrid in February, but has announced also some minor changes for the 2011 range.

First of all, there is a slightly changed face on the front and some tweaks in the interior, including the addition of chrome rings defining the air vents, instruments and climate controls across the dashboard and a new darker dashboard material. Leather upholstery is also now available as an option.

Mechanically, suspension improvements promise refined ride and improved handling, while Honda says that the Jazz benefits from improvements to the steering feel at higher speeds. Last but perhaps the most important change is the comeback of the CVT gearbox! That was due to overwhelming customer demand and therefore, the i-SHIFT is history. The CVT transmission is a standard feature on the Hybrid while it is available as an option on 1.4L petrol models.