Introduction of Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Plastics in Lexus LFA
Toho Tenax, the core company of the Teijin Group’s fiber business, made an announcement on use of its carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) in various component of newly unveiled Lexus LFA, Lexus “F” premium sports car series by Toyota during this year Tokyo Motor Show. The CFRP will be used in total of 65 percent of the Lexus LFA’s cabin resulting in 100 kilogram of weight reduction in cabin weigh in comparison to aluminum made cabin, while maintaining high rigidity required by the manufacturer. Read more
Suzuki Exhibits its New Fuel-Cell Powered Scooter and Electric Wheelchair
Suzuki put on display series of energy efficient vehicles during the 41st Tokyo Motor Show. Couple of interesting products that grabbed my attention was the Fuel-cell Powered Scooter and Electric Wheelchair. The newly developed scooter, the Burgman Fuel-cell Scooter is based on Crosscage concept motorcycle where the fuel cell generates electricity through reaction between oxygen and hydrogen. The Burgman scooter comes with a structurally simple, compact and light design and it is air cooled. The new scooter is equipped with a 70MPa hydrogen tank, the highest pressure tank which has been used thus far on a bike allowing a usable riding range. The tank is placed within a robust frame for safety reason. The fuel cell itself was developed by British company Intelligent Energy which is a polymer-electrolyte type fuel-cell. The scooter uses a lithium-ion as its secondary battery. Read more
Development of Continuously Variable Transmission by YAMAHA
Yamaha Motor showcased its new Y.C.A.T. otherwise known for Yamaha Compact Automatic Transmission technology during the 41st Tokyo Motor Show. The newly developed continuously variable transmission (CVT) is ideal for moped type motorcycle of 100 to 125cc class due to its compactness. The CVT units will fit the drive belt which connects the engine drive shaft and rear wheel axel inside the engine assembly resulting in an automatic transmission motorcycle with the same exterior appearance as a moped. Read more
Development of Acoustic Design for Lexus LFA Engine by Yamaha
Yamaha will display its Acoustic Design for engine of the Lexus LFA during the 41st Tokyo Motor Show which begins today. The concept behind designing this acoustic work was to utilize sound as a communication medium linking the driver and vehicle. This design concept was based on two main goals; one to create an engine sound that reacts instantly to even delicate changes by the driver during the vehicle’s operation, and second was to effectively convey all of the high grade engine sound to the driver as acoustic properties where individuals expect form mass-produced super sports car such as Lexus LFA. In this acoustic design the engine is viewed as the generator of sound and the automobile as a medium in conveying sound from one place to another. Read more
