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Adrian PatonAIMS preview: Mazda Taiki Concept
September 12th 2008 04:45
The stunning Mazda Taiki Concept that made its international debut at last year's Tokyo Motor Show has been earmarked to grace the Mazda stand at this year's Australian International Motor Show.
Taiki is the fourth concept car in Mazda's acclaimed series of "flow" - Nagare in Japanese - design studies unveiled in recent years and is an exercise in advanced aerodynamics that hints at a future generation of more sustainable sports cars. It is designed, according to Mazda, to “visually express the flow of air” and takes inspiration from the shape of the traditional flowing robes that enable a celestial maiden to fly in Japanese legend.
Featuring dramatic styling cues including a rear bodywork and outrigger-style rear wheels, the car’s aerodynamic drag co-efficient is reduced to a slippery 0.25, thereby improving fuel economy. In addition, a kick-up of the car’s underside at the rear results in zero aerodynamic lift, improving high-speed stability.
Powered by a next-generation RENESIS (rotary engine 16X, refer to book separate volume for details), which sets new standards for environmental and driving performance, the Taiki boasts a front-engine rear-wheel-drive layout, unique 2-seat configuration, and others which convey an image of lightness. A new direct injection system and aluminium side housing enhance the rotary engine’s traditional merits of light weight and compact size.
Mazda’s designers say the Taiki’s interior is inspired by traditional Japanese carp-shaped streamers and, like the exterior, is designed to convey the sense of air flow.
Among its innovative features are the ultra-fine rows of LEDs on the edges of the blades that comprise the grill. The rear combination lamps and door-mounted turn signal lamps employ unique Mazda technology and appear to shine through the body color but are distinguishable only when lit. The effect throughout creates the illusion of flowing air being transformed into lights visible to the human eye.
The Australian International Motor Show beings on October 9, 2008.
[Source: Mazda]
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