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At the 2023 Tokyo auto show, Mazda unveiled a sports car concept. Originally named Vision Study Model, the Iconic SP, utilizes an interesting engine combination. This hybrid-rotary-powered sports car uses the twin-rotor rotary engine as a generator to recharge the batteries. Iconic SP is around 10 inches longer than Mazda’s compact Miata. Although Mazda hasn't disclosed the number of electric motors, they are the main propulsion system. As a range-extending EV, that rotary engine doesn’t drive the wheels. Iconic SP’s engine is carbon-neutral, but can use unconventional fuels such as hydrogen. We do know the Iconic SP had around 365 horsepower. This concept can also run as a power supply if you have a power outage. The exterior of the Iconic SP showcases a low and sleek coupe. This has a grille similar to current Mazdas with a smooth body. Inside, you’ll see a lack of clutter in the cabin. There’s a small digital gauge which, in this concept, displayed the Monaco Grand Prix circuit map and a g-meter. At 3,197 pounds, the Iconic SP’s weight is at the lighter end of the EV spectrum. Painted in Viola Red, the Iconic SP is a look into Mazda’s future. Mazda is looking into the future of electric vehicles, so this rotary-hybrid engine could be produced. It looks like Mazda will continue the ever-losing trend of a relatively light and interestingly-propulsion sports coupe. View full article
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At the 2023 Tokyo auto show, Mazda unveiled a sports car concept. Originally named Vision Study Model, the Iconic SP, utilizes an interesting engine combination. This hybrid-rotary-powered sports car uses the twin-rotor rotary engine as a generator to recharge the batteries. Iconic SP is around 10 inches longer than Mazda’s compact Miata. Although Mazda hasn't disclosed the number of electric motors, they are the main propulsion system. As a range-extending EV, that rotary engine doesn’t drive the wheels. Iconic SP’s engine is carbon-neutral, but can use unconventional fuels such as hydrogen. We do know the Iconic SP had around 365 horsepower. This concept can also run as a power supply if you have a power outage. The exterior of the Iconic SP showcases a low and sleek coupe. This has a grille similar to current Mazdas with a smooth body. Inside, you’ll see a lack of clutter in the cabin. There’s a small digital gauge which, in this concept, displayed the Monaco Grand Prix circuit map and a g-meter. At 3,197 pounds, the Iconic SP’s weight is at the lighter end of the EV spectrum. Painted in Viola Red, the Iconic SP is a look into Mazda’s future. Mazda is looking into the future of electric vehicles, so this rotary-hybrid engine could be produced. It looks like Mazda will continue the ever-losing trend of a relatively light and interestingly-propulsion sports coupe. -
Genesis is working on a new sports car that will be utilizing a plug-in hybrid powertrain. This information comes to us via Australian outlet Wheels who spoke with two senior executives from Hyundai at the Consumer Electronics Show. “We are definitely doing it. I’m actually reviewing the project next week, after CES. I can’t tell you much more about it, but we are definitely doing it. We are not going autonomous for all of our cars!" said Hyundai design vice-president Luc Donckerwolke. Hyundai's vice-chairman of research and development, Woong-chul Yang acknowledged the project, saying the coupe would be a two-seater, feature some sort of electrification, and be under the watchful eye of the N performance division. “We are very much interested in it and as far as I’m concerned I’d love to promote that [a sportscar]. That’s something our brand needs at this time. The people working at N will be working on that, but how we put it in the N or maybe above N … it’s pretty high performance. It’s serious,” said Yang. “We cannot say it will just be hybrid,” he said “but we will use electric motors and batteries to make it more performance. Some areas we cannot just overcome by putting a big ICE [internal combustion engine], we like to minimise as much as possible the ICE and use the best application of electric motors. That means not only efficiency but also performance can be very much optimised using both powertrains. Certainly we will put some electric powerplant in there.” Right now, the project is still in the design stage and it will likely be years before the coupe sees the light of day. Source: Wheels View full article -
Genesis Confirms They're Working On a High-Performance Hybrid Coupe
William Maley posted an article in Genesis
Genesis is working on a new sports car that will be utilizing a plug-in hybrid powertrain. This information comes to us via Australian outlet Wheels who spoke with two senior executives from Hyundai at the Consumer Electronics Show. “We are definitely doing it. I’m actually reviewing the project next week, after CES. I can’t tell you much more about it, but we are definitely doing it. We are not going autonomous for all of our cars!" said Hyundai design vice-president Luc Donckerwolke. Hyundai's vice-chairman of research and development, Woong-chul Yang acknowledged the project, saying the coupe would be a two-seater, feature some sort of electrification, and be under the watchful eye of the N performance division. “We are very much interested in it and as far as I’m concerned I’d love to promote that [a sportscar]. That’s something our brand needs at this time. The people working at N will be working on that, but how we put it in the N or maybe above N … it’s pretty high performance. It’s serious,” said Yang. “We cannot say it will just be hybrid,” he said “but we will use electric motors and batteries to make it more performance. Some areas we cannot just overcome by putting a big ICE [internal combustion engine], we like to minimise as much as possible the ICE and use the best application of electric motors. That means not only efficiency but also performance can be very much optimised using both powertrains. Certainly we will put some electric powerplant in there.” Right now, the project is still in the design stage and it will likely be years before the coupe sees the light of day. Source: Wheels -
Mazda's Rotary Engine Is Coming Back, But Not the Way You Might Think
William Maley posted an article in Mazda
There is a small group of enthusiasts that want to see the return of the rotary engine in a Mazda vehicle, preferably in a performance. We have reported on various rumors and news stories talking about the rotary engine making a comeback and then being shelved for one reason or another. It now seems the engine making a return, but not in the way many were hoping for. Speaking with Automotive News, Mazda's global powertrain head Mitsuo Hitomi said the engine would be used as a range-extender for an upcoming EV. A rotary engine is perfect for this application due to its compact size and providing enough juice to charge a battery. Akira Kyomen, Mazda's program manager for vehicle development said they are planning to launch an EV by 2019. The model would come in two different flavors - one being a pure electric and the other using a range extender. Kyomen said the range extender is seen as being necessary for North America and other markets due to the daily drive being much longer. Hitomi also confirmed that Mazda's engineers are working on a larger rotary engine that could power a sports car. The big hurdle isn't the tech, but making the business case for it. Mazda's question, Hitomi said, has been "whether the business conditions will be met or not … not the big technical issues. Are we going to really sell that many models of sports cars? There aren't that many auto companies selling multiple sports cars." Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) -
There is a small group of enthusiasts that want to see the return of the rotary engine in a Mazda vehicle, preferably in a performance. We have reported on various rumors and news stories talking about the rotary engine making a comeback and then being shelved for one reason or another. It now seems the engine making a return, but not in the way many were hoping for. Speaking with Automotive News, Mazda's global powertrain head Mitsuo Hitomi said the engine would be used as a range-extender for an upcoming EV. A rotary engine is perfect for this application due to its compact size and providing enough juice to charge a battery. Akira Kyomen, Mazda's program manager for vehicle development said they are planning to launch an EV by 2019. The model would come in two different flavors - one being a pure electric and the other using a range extender. Kyomen said the range extender is seen as being necessary for North America and other markets due to the daily drive being much longer. Hitomi also confirmed that Mazda's engineers are working on a larger rotary engine that could power a sports car. The big hurdle isn't the tech, but making the business case for it. Mazda's question, Hitomi said, has been "whether the business conditions will be met or not … not the big technical issues. Are we going to really sell that many models of sports cars? There aren't that many auto companies selling multiple sports cars." Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article
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Jaguar Land Rover SVO Division Dreams of A Standalone Sports Car
William Maley posted an article in Jaguar
Jaguar Land Rover's Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division has only been around for few years, but it has been making a mark in the industry. The division has launched a number of models such as the Range Rover Sport SVR, the F-Type Project 7, and recently, the XE SV Project 8. But SVO has big dreams as it wants to create its own bespoke model. “Deep down we want to make our own model. Just look at the success of the [Mercedes] AMG GT,” said John Edwards, JLR’s managing director of Special Vehicle Operations to Auto Express. But this is something that will happen down the road. Edwards emphasized that SVO needs to get their Project vehicles just right before moving on to a standalone model. Possible candidates for the next project could be either the F-Pace or upcoming Range Rover Velar. Source: Auto Express -
Jaguar Land Rover's Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division has only been around for few years, but it has been making a mark in the industry. The division has launched a number of models such as the Range Rover Sport SVR, the F-Type Project 7, and recently, the XE SV Project 8. But SVO has big dreams as it wants to create its own bespoke model. “Deep down we want to make our own model. Just look at the success of the [Mercedes] AMG GT,” said John Edwards, JLR’s managing director of Special Vehicle Operations to Auto Express. But this is something that will happen down the road. Edwards emphasized that SVO needs to get their Project vehicles just right before moving on to a standalone model. Possible candidates for the next project could be either the F-Pace or upcoming Range Rover Velar. Source: Auto Express View full article
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As the Holden Commodore and its variants ready for their final curtain call, there is the question of what would stand as the brand's hero car. Various GM executives have said the Australian brand would retain a V8 powered vehicle, most likely a sports car. The folks at CarAdvice were able to gleam a tiny bit of information about this new V8 vehicle. When asked if the sports car would compete with the Ford Mustang, Holden's executive director of sales, Peter Keley said it wouldn't. “No [when asked if the V8 sports car will be a Mustang competitor]. We’re not going to say anything specific about the vehicle. We are going to launch a V8 sports car and it will blow your socks off. We can’t talk specifics,” said Keley. 'Blow your socks off". Big words for a vehicle that not much is known about. But Keley's answer has given us one big clue, it will not be a rebadged Camaro or be around the same size. There is talk about the Camaro coming to Australia if there is enough demand for it. We're going to put on our speculation hats for a moment and figure out what Holden has in store. Our guess is that Holden could do a successor to the Monaro coupe. Using the Alpha platform, the model would be slightly longer than the Camaro to have it stand-out from the Mustang. We would expect the 6.2L V8 from the Camaro with 455 horsepower and the choice of either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic. We wouldn't be surprised if this coupe arrives in 2018 or sometime after. Source: CarAdvice View full article
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As the Holden Commodore and its variants ready for their final curtain call, there is the question of what would stand as the brand's hero car. Various GM executives have said the Australian brand would retain a V8 powered vehicle, most likely a sports car. The folks at CarAdvice were able to gleam a tiny bit of information about this new V8 vehicle. When asked if the sports car would compete with the Ford Mustang, Holden's executive director of sales, Peter Keley said it wouldn't. “No [when asked if the V8 sports car will be a Mustang competitor]. We’re not going to say anything specific about the vehicle. We are going to launch a V8 sports car and it will blow your socks off. We can’t talk specifics,” said Keley. 'Blow your socks off". Big words for a vehicle that not much is known about. But Keley's answer has given us one big clue, it will not be a rebadged Camaro or be around the same size. There is talk about the Camaro coming to Australia if there is enough demand for it. We're going to put on our speculation hats for a moment and figure out what Holden has in store. Our guess is that Holden could do a successor to the Monaro coupe. Using the Alpha platform, the model would be slightly longer than the Camaro to have it stand-out from the Mustang. We would expect the 6.2L V8 from the Camaro with 455 horsepower and the choice of either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic. We wouldn't be surprised if this coupe arrives in 2018 or sometime after. Source: CarAdvice -
Mazda has something special for the Tokyo Motor Show in November. The automaker has released a teaser shot showing off of a sports car concept. From the image, we can tell there is a long hood and a flowing roofline. Mazda says the concept appears to "almost to condense Mazda's entire history of sports car development into a single model." Source: Mazda Press Release is on Page 2 Mazda to Unveil New Sports Car Concept at Tokyo Motor Show Japan-debut of Mazda KOERU and racing-spec Mazda Roadsters among fourteen models on display HIROSHIMA, Japan, Sept. 29, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazda Motor Corporation will hold the world premiere of a new sports car concept model at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show, which runs from October 30 through November 8.*1 A total of 14 models will be on display at the Mazda stand, including crossover concept Mazda KOERU making its first appearance in Japan, two racing-spec Mazda Roadsters (known as Mazda MX-5 outside Japan) and the Cosmo Sport (110S outside Japan), first introduced in 1967. The design of the sports car concept to be unveiled in Tokyo is modern but maintains a sense of lineage and authenticity, appearing almost to condense Mazda's entire history of sports car development into a single model. In line with the company's theme for the Tokyo Motor Show this year, "Accelerate toward our dreams," Mazda will make an appeal for the brand's unique approach to driving pleasure. In addition to the sports car concept, Mazda KOERU will be on display along with new-generation models featuring SKYACTIV Technologies and KODO—Soul of Motion design. A motor sports exhibit will feature racing-spec Roadsters and the Cosmo Sport will complement a heritage display showing Mazda's history of convention-defying engineering. -
Mazda has something special for the Tokyo Motor Show in November. The automaker has released a teaser shot showing off of a sports car concept. From the image, we can tell there is a long hood and a flowing roofline. Mazda says the concept appears to "almost to condense Mazda's entire history of sports car development into a single model." Source: Mazda Press Release is on Page 2 Mazda to Unveil New Sports Car Concept at Tokyo Motor Show Japan-debut of Mazda KOERU and racing-spec Mazda Roadsters among fourteen models on display HIROSHIMA, Japan, Sept. 29, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazda Motor Corporation will hold the world premiere of a new sports car concept model at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show, which runs from October 30 through November 8.*1 A total of 14 models will be on display at the Mazda stand, including crossover concept Mazda KOERU making its first appearance in Japan, two racing-spec Mazda Roadsters (known as Mazda MX-5 outside Japan) and the Cosmo Sport (110S outside Japan), first introduced in 1967. The design of the sports car concept to be unveiled in Tokyo is modern but maintains a sense of lineage and authenticity, appearing almost to condense Mazda's entire history of sports car development into a single model. In line with the company's theme for the Tokyo Motor Show this year, "Accelerate toward our dreams," Mazda will make an appeal for the brand's unique approach to driving pleasure. In addition to the sports car concept, Mazda KOERU will be on display along with new-generation models featuring SKYACTIV Technologies and KODO—Soul of Motion design. A motor sports exhibit will feature racing-spec Roadsters and the Cosmo Sport will complement a heritage display showing Mazda's history of convention-defying engineering. View full article
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Bentley Considers What New Vehicle They Should Do To Celebrate 100 Years
William Maley posted an article in Bentley
2019 will mark 100 years of Bentley and the automaker is considering doing something special for the occasion. “Our centenary would be a good time to create a new limited series car,” said Bentley CEO Wolfgang Dürheimer. There are a number of ideas being considered, including a hypercar. “That project will be investigated intensively in Crewe within the next month. The question is, do we build the standard car you would expect in that segment? Or do we go with lots of carbon fibre and lightweight components? Now that would be a car we could take to the big guns,” said Dürheimer. Now Bentley has floated the idea of a supercar before. Back in 1999, the company revealed the Hunaudières Concept which packed an 8L W16 engine capable of hitting 350 KPH (about 217 MPH). Source: Top Gear -
2019 will mark 100 years of Bentley and the automaker is considering doing something special for the occasion. “Our centenary would be a good time to create a new limited series car,” said Bentley CEO Wolfgang Dürheimer. There are a number of ideas being considered, including a hypercar. “That project will be investigated intensively in Crewe within the next month. The question is, do we build the standard car you would expect in that segment? Or do we go with lots of carbon fibre and lightweight components? Now that would be a car we could take to the big guns,” said Dürheimer. Now Bentley has floated the idea of a supercar before. Back in 1999, the company revealed the Hunaudières Concept which packed an 8L W16 engine capable of hitting 350 KPH (about 217 MPH). Source: Top Gear View full article
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The past few years have seen Kia show off some sports car concepts and many have been wondering if Kia would actually build one. Well according to Autocar, Kia will be doing just that. Kia UK boss Paul Philpott revealed that the Korean automaker will launch a new sports car “by the end of the decade”. Not many details about this new car are known since it is still in the planning stages. What is known is that the new model will take ideas from the GT and Stinger GT4 concepts, and not be based on any other Kia model. This comes at an interesting time since earlier in the week, Hyundai President & CEO Tony Whitehorn told Autocar that they don't have any plans to build a sports car. “Not many people make money out of sports cars. The sports car market is shrinking dramatically, and even firms with heritage and a great product are struggling. Aside from the Audi TT and Mazda MX-5, it is a tough place to be,” said Whitehorn. Source: Autocar -
The past few years have seen Kia show off some sports car concepts and many have been wondering if Kia would actually build one. Well according to Autocar, Kia will be doing just that. Kia UK boss Paul Philpott revealed that the Korean automaker will launch a new sports car “by the end of the decade”. Not many details about this new car are known since it is still in the planning stages. What is known is that the new model will take ideas from the GT and Stinger GT4 concepts, and not be based on any other Kia model. This comes at an interesting time since earlier in the week, Hyundai President & CEO Tony Whitehorn told Autocar that they don't have any plans to build a sports car. “Not many people make money out of sports cars. The sports car market is shrinking dramatically, and even firms with heritage and a great product are struggling. Aside from the Audi TT and Mazda MX-5, it is a tough place to be,” said Whitehorn. Source: Autocar View full article
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By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com March 26, 2013 McLaren is hard at work on their next model that will slot below the MP4-12C as the automaker’s “entry-level” model, McLaren executive chairman Ron Dennis has confirmed to Autocar. Wearing the codename of P13, sources tell Autocarthe model will likely be designed as a Porsche 911 Turbo rival. Power will come a detuned version of McLaren’s twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V8. Power is expected to somewhere in the middle of 450 and 616 horsepower. The transmission will be a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The chassis will be the MP4-12C’s carbon fiber “MonoCell” chassis, which was developed from the start to be feasible for use in a smaller, less expensive model. Design is unknown, but Autocar speculates that it will likely follow in the footsteps of the P1 and not the MP4-12C. A drop-top is in the cards as well. McLaren expects to sell up to 2,500 units for the P13, making it a volume model if it goes into production within the next three years. Pricing is expected to be below $200,000. Source: Autocar William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. -
By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com March 26, 2013 McLaren is hard at work on their next model that will slot below the MP4-12C as the automaker’s “entry-level” model, McLaren executive chairman Ron Dennis has confirmed to Autocar. Wearing the codename of P13, sources tell Autocarthe model will likely be designed as a Porsche 911 Turbo rival. Power will come a detuned version of McLaren’s twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V8. Power is expected to somewhere in the middle of 450 and 616 horsepower. The transmission will be a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The chassis will be the MP4-12C’s carbon fiber “MonoCell” chassis, which was developed from the start to be feasible for use in a smaller, less expensive model. Design is unknown, but Autocar speculates that it will likely follow in the footsteps of the P1 and not the MP4-12C. A drop-top is in the cards as well. McLaren expects to sell up to 2,500 units for the P13, making it a volume model if it goes into production within the next three years. Pricing is expected to be below $200,000. Source: Autocar William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article
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By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com February 12, 2013 Spyker could be heading to this year’s Geneva Motor Show with a new car. Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf's Autovisie recently had the chance to speak with CEO Victor Muller who revealed this. "I say nothing, other than that it will surprise you,” Muller said. Details are scarce, but sources at Spyker say the new model is smaller and cheaper than the current C8 Aileron. Source: Autovisie William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. -
By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com February 12, 2013 Spyker could be heading to this year’s Geneva Motor Show with a new car. Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf's Autovisie recently had the chance to speak with CEO Victor Muller who revealed this. "I say nothing, other than that it will surprise you,” Muller said. Details are scarce, but sources at Spyker say the new model is smaller and cheaper than the current C8 Aileron. Source: Autovisie William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article
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By William Maley January 24, 2013 Today, BMW and Toyota have signed binding agreements on jointly developing hydrogen fuel cell powertrains, a sports car platform, lightweight materials, and a lithium-air battery. The binding agreements finalize a technology partnership that was announced in December 2011. On the fuel cell front, BMW and Toyota will combine their existing resources and knowledge to develop a complete fuel-cell vehicle system; including a fuel stack, hydrogen tank, motor and battery, by 2020. The two companies will also look into the infrastructure needed for hydrogen. Also planned is research into lithium-air batteries which promise five times the energy density of lithium-ion batteries, and lightweight materials - such as carbon fiber - for car bodies. But the one part of the BMW/Toyota agreement that has everyone buzzing is the joint platform for a sportscar. The new platform will be for a mid-size sportscar. The two will do a feasibility study that will be completed by the end of this year. “It is just over a year since we signed our collaborative MoU, and with each day as our relationship strengthens, we feel acutely that we are making steadfast progress. Now, we are entering the phase that promises the fruit. While placing importance on what we learn from the joint development, we will work hard together in reaching our common goal of making ever-better cars,” said Toyota president Akio Toyoda in a statement. Source: BMW, Toyota William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 BMW Group and Toyota Motor Corporation Deepen Collaboration by Signing Binding Agreements Fuel Cell System, Sports Vehicle, Lightweight Technology and Lithium-air Battery Collaboration to Commence Munich, Germany - January 24, 2013... BMW Group and Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) are pursuing their successful strategic long-term cooperation in the field of sustainable mobility today by signing binding agreements aimed at long-term collaboration between the two companies for the joint development of a fuel cell system, joint development of architecture and components for a sports vehicle, and joint research and development of lightweight technologies. These agreements follow a memorandum of understanding signed in June 2012. Furthermore, BMW Group and TMC also today signed a binding agreement to commence collaborative research on lithium-air batteries, a post-lithium-battery solution. This agreement marks the second phase of collaborative research into next-generation lithium-ion battery cells that commenced in March 2012. The main points of the agreements are: 1. Fuel cell system - The companies are convinced that fuel cell technology is one of the solutions necessary to achieve zero emissions. BMW Group and TMC are to share their technologies and to jointly develop a fundamental fuel-cell vehicle system, including not only a fuel cell stack and system, but also a hydrogen tank, motor and battery, aiming for completion in 2020. - The companies are to collaborate in jointly developing codes and standards for the hydrogen infrastructure which are necessary for the popularization of fuel cell vehicles. 2. Sports vehicle - The companies agreed to set-up a feasibility study to define a joint platform concept for a mid-size sports vehicle that is to be completed by the end of 2013. The two companies aim to combine each other’s technology and knowledge at a high level to maximise customer satisfaction. Both companies are to share the vision to further collaborate in the field of sports vehicle development. 3. Lightweight technology The companies are to jointly develop lightweight technologies for vehicle bodies using cutting-edge materials such as reinforced composites, with an eye to utilize these technologies in cooperation on the joint development of a sports-vehicle platform as well as other BMW and TMC vehicles. 4. Post-lithium-battery technology The companies are to begin joint research with a goal to develop a lithium-air battery with energy density greatly exceeding that of current lithium-ion batteries. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG said: “TMC and the BMW Group share the same strategic vision of future sustainable mobility. In light of the technological changes ahead, the entire automotive industry faces tremendous challenges, which we also regard as an opportunity. This collaboration is an important building block in keeping both companies on a successful course in the future.” Akio Toyoda, President of TMC said: “It is just over a year since we signed our collaborative MoU, and with each day as our relationship strengthens, we feel acutely that we are making steadfast progress. Now, we are entering the phase that promises the fruit. While placing importance on what we learn from the joint development, we will work hard together in reaching our common goal of making ever-better cars.” BMW Group and TMC first agreed to form a medium-to-long-term collaborative relationship for developing next-generation environment-friendly vehicles and technologies in December 2011, at which time the two companies also signed a contract under which BMW Group is to supply highly efficient diesel engines to Toyota Motor Europe. BMW Group and TMC - as long-term strategic partners - have since continued their joint efforts to realize sustainable mobility for the future. View full article
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By William Maley January 24, 2013 Today, BMW and Toyota have signed binding agreements on jointly developing hydrogen fuel cell powertrains, a sports car platform, lightweight materials, and a lithium-air battery. The binding agreements finalize a technology partnership that was announced in December 2011. On the fuel cell front, BMW and Toyota will combine their existing resources and knowledge to develop a complete fuel-cell vehicle system; including a fuel stack, hydrogen tank, motor and battery, by 2020. The two companies will also look into the infrastructure needed for hydrogen. Also planned is research into lithium-air batteries which promise five times the energy density of lithium-ion batteries, and lightweight materials - such as carbon fiber - for car bodies. But the one part of the BMW/Toyota agreement that has everyone buzzing is the joint platform for a sportscar. The new platform will be for a mid-size sportscar. The two will do a feasibility study that will be completed by the end of this year. “It is just over a year since we signed our collaborative MoU, and with each day as our relationship strengthens, we feel acutely that we are making steadfast progress. Now, we are entering the phase that promises the fruit. While placing importance on what we learn from the joint development, we will work hard together in reaching our common goal of making ever-better cars,” said Toyota president Akio Toyoda in a statement. Source: BMW, Toyota William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 BMW Group and Toyota Motor Corporation Deepen Collaboration by Signing Binding Agreements Fuel Cell System, Sports Vehicle, Lightweight Technology and Lithium-air Battery Collaboration to Commence Munich, Germany - January 24, 2013... BMW Group and Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) are pursuing their successful strategic long-term cooperation in the field of sustainable mobility today by signing binding agreements aimed at long-term collaboration between the two companies for the joint development of a fuel cell system, joint development of architecture and components for a sports vehicle, and joint research and development of lightweight technologies. These agreements follow a memorandum of understanding signed in June 2012. Furthermore, BMW Group and TMC also today signed a binding agreement to commence collaborative research on lithium-air batteries, a post-lithium-battery solution. This agreement marks the second phase of collaborative research into next-generation lithium-ion battery cells that commenced in March 2012. The main points of the agreements are: 1. Fuel cell system - The companies are convinced that fuel cell technology is one of the solutions necessary to achieve zero emissions. BMW Group and TMC are to share their technologies and to jointly develop a fundamental fuel-cell vehicle system, including not only a fuel cell stack and system, but also a hydrogen tank, motor and battery, aiming for completion in 2020. - The companies are to collaborate in jointly developing codes and standards for the hydrogen infrastructure which are necessary for the popularization of fuel cell vehicles. 2. Sports vehicle - The companies agreed to set-up a feasibility study to define a joint platform concept for a mid-size sports vehicle that is to be completed by the end of 2013. The two companies aim to combine each other’s technology and knowledge at a high level to maximise customer satisfaction. Both companies are to share the vision to further collaborate in the field of sports vehicle development. 3. Lightweight technology The companies are to jointly develop lightweight technologies for vehicle bodies using cutting-edge materials such as reinforced composites, with an eye to utilize these technologies in cooperation on the joint development of a sports-vehicle platform as well as other BMW and TMC vehicles. 4. Post-lithium-battery technology The companies are to begin joint research with a goal to develop a lithium-air battery with energy density greatly exceeding that of current lithium-ion batteries. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG said: “TMC and the BMW Group share the same strategic vision of future sustainable mobility. In light of the technological changes ahead, the entire automotive industry faces tremendous challenges, which we also regard as an opportunity. This collaboration is an important building block in keeping both companies on a successful course in the future.” Akio Toyoda, President of TMC said: “It is just over a year since we signed our collaborative MoU, and with each day as our relationship strengthens, we feel acutely that we are making steadfast progress. Now, we are entering the phase that promises the fruit. While placing importance on what we learn from the joint development, we will work hard together in reaching our common goal of making ever-better cars.” BMW Group and TMC first agreed to form a medium-to-long-term collaborative relationship for developing next-generation environment-friendly vehicles and technologies in December 2011, at which time the two companies also signed a contract under which BMW Group is to supply highly efficient diesel engines to Toyota Motor Europe. BMW Group and TMC - as long-term strategic partners - have since continued their joint efforts to realize sustainable mobility for the future. -
William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com July 12, 2012 Nissan is reportedly hard at work on the next generation Z sports car. In a interview with Inside Line, Nissan's design boss Shiro Nakamura said the next Z will be both smaller and lighter than the current 370Z. Also, Nakamura said the next Z will be aimed at a wider audience. To help with the weight loss of the next Z, Nissan could be looking at dropping the current 3.7L V6 and going towards a four-cylinder turbo. Also, with the next Z going smaller, speculation has it leaving the FM platform which also underpins machines like the Infiniti G Coupe and Sedan, and the FX crossover. Inside Line says Nissan might turn to its new partner, Daimler for help. Source: Inside Line William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. -
William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com July 12, 2012 Nissan is reportedly hard at work on the next generation Z sports car. In a interview with Inside Line, Nissan's design boss Shiro Nakamura said the next Z will be both smaller and lighter than the current 370Z. Also, Nakamura said the next Z will be aimed at a wider audience. To help with the weight loss of the next Z, Nissan could be looking at dropping the current 3.7L V6 and going towards a four-cylinder turbo. Also, with the next Z going smaller, speculation has it leaving the FM platform which also underpins machines like the Infiniti G Coupe and Sedan, and the FX crossover. Inside Line says Nissan might turn to its new partner, Daimler for help. Source: Inside Line William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article
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William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com June 29, 2012 Today, BMW and Toyota unveiled more of their plans from their partnership announced last December. The plans include development of a hydrogen fuel-cell system, collaboration on electric powertrains, work on lightweight technologies, and development of a new sports car. "Toyota and the BMW Group share the same strategic vision of sustainable individual future mobility. Together we have a great opportunity to continue leading our industry through this transformation," said Norbert Reithofer, BMW's Chairman of the Board. "Toyota is strong in environment-friendly hybrids and fuel cells. On the other hand, I believe BMW's strength is in developing sports cars. I am excited to think of the cars that will result from this relationship," said Akio Toyoda, President of Toyota. This has people wondering what this partnership could bring. The obvious benefits include better range and faster charging times for EVs, lighter vehicles, and the possibility of more hydrogen vehicles. Also, the sports car announcement has a lot of people guessing. So far, we've heard everything from a resurrection of the Toyota Supra to a competitor to take on the Acura NSX. William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 BMW Group and Toyota Motor Corporation agree to further strengthen collaboration 29.06.2012 Companies sign MoU aimed at collaboration in four fields of technology Tokyo/Munich. Akio Toyoda, President of Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC), met today with Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, at BMW Group headquarters in Munich to announce the planned expansion of their existing cooperation initiated in December last year. The two companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at long-term strategic collaboration in four fields: joint development of a fuel cell system, joint development of architecture and components for a future sports vehicle, collaboration on powertrain electrification and joint research and development on lightweight technologies. Also today, Norbert Reithofer and Akio Toyoda of TMC both signed a Joint Statement to reconfirm their companies' shared intention to strengthen the long-term, strategic collaboration between them. Reithofer said: "We aim to further strengthen our competitive position in sustainable future technologies. We signed an MoU to this effect today. Toyota and the BMW Group share the same strategic vision of sustainable individual future mobility. Together we have a great opportunity to continue leading our industry through this transformation." Toyoda added: "BMW and Toyota both want to make ever-better cars. We respect each other. And I think this is shown by our taking the next step only six months since the signing of our initial agreement. Toyota is strong in environment-friendly hybrids and fuel cells. On the other hand, I believe BMW's strength is in developing sports cars. I am excited to think of the cars that will result from this relationship." In March 2012, the BMW Group and TMC signed a binding agreement on collaborative research in the field of next-generation lithium-ion battery cells. In addition, the BMW Group and Toyota Motor Europe entered into a contract under which the BMW Group will supply highly-efficient 1.6 litre and 2.0 litre diesel engines to Toyota Motor Europe, starting in 2014. Today's MoU represents the companies' agreement in December last year to identify and discuss other possible collaborative projects. View full article
