Show more Photos
 

Related Content

• » The new Daihatsu Terios
• » Daihatsu Fourtrak (1984 - 2002) : 4x4 PLAY
• » Daihatsu Charade : NO MORE GAMES
• » Photos : Daihatsu

Daihatsu creates a proper mini-sportscar

In keeping with the alternative drive systems theme of the 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show, Daihatsu showed an exciting new concept car, the Hybrid Vehicle Sports (or HVS if you prefer). The exterior and interior of the HVS don't give much away. It looks like it would be a suitably upmarket replacement for the diminutive Copen (itself given a revamp at the show), replacing that car's cutesy looks with sharper creases and a more universal sporty appearance. The interior has a little concept gloss, but the basic shape looks ready for production, and it looks great in comparison to the likes of Mazda's new MX-5.

The interesting bits are hidden away at Frankfurt though. Under that shapely body is a new hybrid drive system, aimed at not only reducing fuel consumption and emissions, but also enhancing the driving experience. Under the bonnet lies the new 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine as shown in the Daihatsu D-Compact, with 103bhp. However, it is in series with two permanent magnetic synchronous electric motors at the front (adding another 50bhp) and another motor at the rear with an innovative layout allowing drive to be apportioned to the rear wheels individually according to grip levels and cornering speeds, effectively acting as an electronic differential.

Performance figures are not quoted, but given the traction afforded by four-wheel drive, and the instantaneous maximum torque from the electric motors, the HVS should be a quick sprint car, despite the extra weight added thanks to the hardware. One of the Daihatsu company's aims is to reduce fuel consumption and the HVS is said to consume just 4.1 litres per 100km, which equates to about 56mpg on the Combined Cycle. CO₂ emissions are an impressively low 101g/km. We think that this drivetrain is a way from production yet, but the HVS may appear as a conventional sportscar in the next couple of years.

Send by Messenger

Email this article

 Print