Tokyo International Motor Show 2003 Overview: DaimlerChrysler

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“ i ” concept test car

“ i ” features a small body size with the powertrain in a midship layout. The new mid-engine/rear-wheel drive platform realizes a concept test car for a next-generation small car that marries outstanding interior comfort with excellent crashworthiness. Targeted principally at stylish young drivers, this is a proposal for a small car that wins the hearts and souls of and brings pleasure to its users.

Features enhancing environmental performance include a lightweight body built on an aluminum space-frame, a powertrain that mates a CVT to a new 1.0-liter MIVEC engine that incorporates Mitsubishi’s Smart Idling system, and aerodynamics that realize very low drag.

In the ADAC 1 [ FIA 2 EcoTest ], “ i ” returned an average consumption of 3.8 liters/100 km with emissions of 89 g/km of CO2, thus meeting both the Three Liter Car fuel economy and the 90 g/km Euro 4 emissions standards and becoming the first car to achieve 5-star ratings in both tests.

The company is planning to introduce a small car incorporating some of the concepts embodied in “ i ” and adapted for the kei minicar category on the Japanese market in 2005.
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The mid-engine layout enables a no-frills but distinctive one-motion form that gives sparkling expression to the car’s sporty and fun-to-drive qualities.

Giving expression to the car’s hi-tech and nimble qualities, the light and airy interior is characterized by seats made of transparent plastic with a sheen and by a cleanly composed dashboard that appears to “hover”.

Principal dimensions

L x W x H x WB (mm): 3,516 x 1,505 x 1,514 x 2,560

Occupants: 4

Engine: 1.0-liter 3-cylinder DOHC MIVEC3, with Smart Idling system

Transmission: CVT

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“SE · RO” concept car

SE · RO employs the same mid-engine layout as “ i ”. Using the new mid-engine/rear-wheel drive platform, this is a concept car designed to fit the Japanese kei minicar dimensions. Targeted mainly at male owners over 35, SE · RO proposes a new kind of lifestyle that changes the value register for the minicar category. This is just the car for going out to parties with friends; that provides a hobby workspace inside the vehicle; for getting away from the city and enjoying outdoor pursuits.

With softly styled front and rear ends, the exterior design features richly expressive styling that clearly sets SE · RO apart from conventional one-box minicar wagons. The hand-crafted aluminum body outer panels give the car an airplane of the future image.

Principal dimensions

L x W x H x WB (mm): 3,395 x 1,475 x 1,675 x 2,560

Occupants: 4

Engine: 0.66-liter 3-cylinder DOHC MIVEC with turbocharge

Transmission: CVT

The packaging uses the new midship layout platform to locate the engine and other powertrain components between the two axles and provides a roomy interior space using sharply truncated overhangs and locating two rows of seats within the longish wheelbase.

The rear seat backs and squabs can be folded up and back into the luggage compartment to create a generous workspace. Or, the rear seat squabs can be slid forward and the seat back folded down forward to form a flat surface that creates a very spacious luggage compartment. This kind of flexibility enables the rear compartment to be optimally arranged for occupant comfort, to create a workspace or to carry extra luggage.

“CZ2 Cabriolet” concept car

“CZ2 Cabriolet” concept car Targeting the energetic lady driver, CZ2 Cabriolet’s packaging wraps stylish lines around compact body dimensions that make the car easy to maneuver around town while still creating a comfortable interior space for four adults. Laid-back but chic, this compact cabriolet gives instant access to the exhilaration of open-top driving.

CZ2 Cabriolet is defined by styling that is elegant yet sharp. The use of a canvas top rather than the retractable steel roof currently in vogue accentuates the elegance that highlights the charm of this open compact.

Principal dimensions

L x W x H x WB (mm): 3,950 x 1,750 x 1,480 x 2,500

Occupants: 4

Engine: 1.5-liter 4-cylinder DOHC MIVEC

Transmission: CVT

In line with Mitsubishi’s Japanese Modern design aesthetic, CZ2 Cabriolet’s interior blends natural and hi-tech features. The casually chic color scheme complements the minimalist design theme to provide an interior that offers comfort, utility and a restful ambience.

Adding further to CZ2 Cabriolet’s fun-to-drive-and-ride qualities is Mitsubishi Motors Information Communicator (MMIC) that uses memory stick technology to provide an information bridge between vehicle, home, office and auto dealer needs and requirements.

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“Tarmac Spyder” concept car

Comprising a compact body powered by a hi-performance engine and loaded with advanced but well-proven chassis technologies, Tarmac Spyder is a sports model that puts the highest levels of dynamic performance into the driver’s hands. With Mitsubishi Motors’ competitive spirit oozing from every inch, Tarmac Spyder is targeted at those who are savvy with IT tools and hi-tech equipment and who know how to enjoy themselves.

Principal dimensions

L x W x H x WB (mm): 4,055 x 1,825 x 2,515

Occupants: 4

Engine: 2.0-liter 4-cylinder DOHC with intercooler-turbocharger

Transmission: 5-speed automatic transmission
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With its new identity, the front visage immediately identifies Tarmac Spyder as a Mitsubishi. Elements that add to its bold and intrepid mien include cylindrical headlamps, an oversize radiator that pokes through the bumper opening, and the muscular fenders.

The interior evokes an image more akin to a jet fighter than a racing car. The choice of materials and colors generates the Spartan and minimal image typical of a hi-performance sports car.