Honda Factory Performance (HFP) Accord Coupe at SEMA

Honda Factory Performance (HFP) Accord Coupe As a dealer-installed accessory, Honda’s in-house HFP products carry the same 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty as the rest of the vehicle, when installed at the time of new vehicle purchase, and are engineered to be fully compatible with the vehicle. The Accord HFP package includes a wide range of performance- and style-enhancing products. The Sports Suspension package (available Spring 2008) reduces ride height by about 25 mm, lowering the vehicle’s center of gravity, and enhancing the Accord Coupe’s sporty road-handling characteristics. Larger wheels and tires include 19-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels designed for high-performance 245/40R-19 tires (sold separately). A full aerodynamic body kit (front, sides and rear) further elevates the style quotient of the entire vehicle. Interior and exterior HFP emblems complement the package. All of the Accord Coupe HFP components except suspension can currently be purchased individually, and the full HFP package including suspension will go on sale in the spring of 2008. American Honda launched its performance accessory program in 2002 with the introduction of a Honda Factory Performance package for the Civic EX Coupe, and currently offers HFP products for the Civic, Accord and Fit.

Honda Accord Coupe HF-S Concept

Honda just revealed a "world debut" concept car here at SEMA, and it basically represents what you can do with a new 2008 Honda Accord if you really put your mind to it. Also, you've got to use up every option possible in the Honda Factory Performance catalog -- from ten years from now. It's called the Honda Accord Coupe HF-S concept, and it's got every piece of Honda kit you'd never want and you couldn't even get -- even a "Cadmium Orange Pearl" color coat, which we think may be what happens when you combine an orange and cadmium at a really hot temperature. It's got LED driving lights, a wrap-around front bumper which creates a "vortex effect" to enhance high-speed aero and engine cooling. Full press release after the jump.




Honda Introduces a World-Debut Concept Vehicle Based on the Accord and a Wide Range of Customized Vehicles and Racecars at 2007 SEMA Show

10/30/2007 - LAS VEGAS -

More than 17 Honda project and concept vehicles are on display at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association's (SEMA) show in Las Vegas, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today.

Making its world debut, the Honda Accord Coupe HF-S Concept represents a radical vision for customizing the all-new Accord's design and performance through stylish and functional modifications. A dual-port exhaust system can provide additional performance when needed while retaining low noise output during relaxed driving. Purely a concept, the Accord HF-S Concept is a creation of Honda Access America, Inc., the U.S. accessory development division.

The 2008 Accord Coupe equipped with dealer-installed Honda Factory Performance™ (HFP™) components melds a distinctive, custom appearance with an enhanced level of handling performance. All of the HFP components except the suspension kit (available Spring 2008) are currently available as dealer-installed accessories. All HFP products carry the same 3-year/36,000 mile bumper-to-bumper warranty as the rest of the vehicle, when installed at the time of new vehicle purchase, and are engineered to be fully compatible with the vehicle.

"The Accord HF-S Concept provides a glimpse into the future of vehicle customization," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda. "The Honda Factory Performance-equipped 2008 Accord Coupe demonstrates the best of what the company offers today."

In addition to the Accords on display, fifteen more unique vehicles filled out the Honda booth, including the all-new S2000 CR and the recently-introduced Civic Mugen Si Sedan. A specially-prepared S2000 CR has been modified by Team Honda Research to compete in the 2007 National Auto Sport Association's (NASA) "25 Hours of Thunderhill" endurance race in December. Another racecar, the "One Lap Odyssey" modified by Honda Manufacturing of Alabama, LLC made its SEMA debut after winning its class in Car and Driver magazine's 2007 Cannonball One Lap of America.

Honda Accord Coupe HF-S Concept
Honda Access America, Inc., Honda's U.S. accessory development team designed and built the HF-S Concept to demonstrate how the customized use of technology could allow vehicle owners to fine-tune performance while adding their own senses of style. Key exterior and conceptual powertrain modifications represent functional performance and driving-experience enhancements.

Unique LED driving lights, placed on the fore-most corners, wrap around the front of the bumper providing increased visibility both forward and side for the driver while also creating a unique appearance. The shape of the front bumper is designed to create a vortex effect to enhance high-speed aerodynamics and engine cooling. On the sides of the vehicle, the shape of the carbon fiber panels decreases negative speed force around the wheel arches. The rear bumper diffuser is designed to reduce drag. The trunk spoiler is a prototype design engineered for high-speed down-force. The metallic color of the exterior is accented by Cadmium Orange Pearl - a color derived from super-heated metal. The use of this color for the brake calipers, badges, grille accent, and interior details underscores the vehicle's high-performance appearance.

Key to the concept is the use of technology to electronically customize throttle response, suspension settings, steering boost, and traction involvement to the driver's taste. Additionally, the exhaust is a two-stage design. It is engineered to be exceptionally quiet during relaxed cruising, and provide elevated levels of performance in high performance driving situations.

Honda Factory Performance (HFP) Accord Coupe
As a dealer-installed accessory, Honda's in-house HFP products carry the same 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty as the rest of the vehicle, when installed at the time of new vehicle purchase, and are engineered to be fully compatible with the vehicle. The Accord HFP package includes a wide range of performance- and style-enhancing products. The Sports Suspension package (available Spring 2008) reduces ride height by about 25 mm, lowering the vehicle's center of gravity, and enhancing the Accord Coupe's sporty road-handling characteristics. Larger wheels and tires include 19-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels designed for high-performance 245/40R-19 tires (sold separately). A full aerodynamic body kit (front, sides and rear) further elevates the style quotient of the entire vehicle. Interior and exterior HFP emblems complement the package. All of the Accord Coupe HFP components except suspension can currently be purchased individually, and the full HFP package including suspension will go on sale in the spring of 2008. American Honda launched its performance accessory program in 2002 with the introduction of a Honda Factory Performance package for the Civic EX Coupe, and currently offers HFP products for the Civic, Accord and Fit.

S2000 CR
Enhancing the S2000's performance potential, the S2000 CR introduces more track-oriented suspension settings, aerodynamic-enhancing bodywork, a removable hardtop, higher rigidity and reduced weight. The added features are designed to appeal to enthusiasts who enjoy open track-day events and also provide a more ideal starting point for racers who modify the S2000 for competition in club-racing events. Taking this concept even further, Team Honda Research, a group formed from Honda R&D Americas, Inc., engineers, added modifications necessary to compete in the 2007 NASA "25 Hours of Thunderhill" endurance race. All of the modifications are consistent with the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) Touring 3 and the National Auto Sport Association (NASA) Performance Touring regulations.

Honda Manufacturing Alabama, LLC (HMA) One Lap Odyssey
The Car and Driver magazine 2007 Cannonball One Lap of America race included an Alabama-built Odyssey minivan, produced by a team of dedicated associates from Honda Manufacturing of Alabama (HMA) in Lincoln. The One Lap vehicle created by the HMA team was a fully-customized Odyssey minivan-turned-racer that sported a modified engine with a custom-built turbo charger, a six-speed manual transmission, a track-tuned suspension, competition roll cage and close to 400 horsepower at the wheels.

From May 5-12, the team raced from track to track over a 4,000-mile loop around the Midwest and western United States. The HMA Odyssey raced to an impressive first- place finish in the SUV category and 33rd overall in a field of 88 competitors. Along the way, the HMA team picked up a first-place finish - among all competitors - at the race segment held at the Mid-America Motorsports Park. This win came against the entire field, which included Corvettes, Vipers, Porsches and a Ford GT.

Tuner Project Vehicles Displayed at the Honda Booth

BRS autodesign Fit
BRS autodesign S2000
Zero 1000 Top Fuel S2000
DVS/Drag Cartel Fit
DVS/Drag Cartel Civic Si
Forever Orange Fit by Ryan Shutt
Ryan Shutt Polk Audio Civic Si
Kraftworks Fit
Kraftworks S2000
DSO Eyewear Element
RS-R S2000 Drift Car

Hybrid Honda CR-Z Concept Debuts

Honda let its CR-Z Concept take its first bow earlier today at the Tokyo Motor Show. Although just one of over 15 vehicles at Honda's stand, nothing by the automaker was as hotly anticipated as this car.

The CR-Z Concept utilizes a hybrid powertrain, and could be the lynchpin to Honda's future automotive plans. The car, with its all glass rear hatch, certainly makes us reminisce about the glory days of the CR-X. This concept rides on 19-inch alloy wheels, which pair up nicely with the car's overall lightweight design.

This new concept is part of Honda chief Takeo Fukui's belief that hybrids will represent roughly 10 percent of total global sales at the Japanese automaker. With global sales expected to hit 4.5 million by 2010, Honda is in serious need of a hybrid that outperforms the Toyota Prius.

And it looks like they have taken the first steps in reaching that goal. Honda is planning a compact sports car based on the CR-Z, with expectations that city-dwellers will have even more reason to buy a hybrid in the years to come.

All-new Honda Fit in Japan

Japanese car manufacturer Honda has announced that its all-new second-generation Honda Fit will go on sale in Japan on Friday, October 26, 2007. The Fit is a five-door hatchback launched in June 2001, that quickly became the first car since 1969 to outsell Toyota's best-seller, the Corolla, on the Japanese car market. So clearly we're onto something good!

With Honda's man maximum, machine minimum philisophy at the heart of the concept, Honda likes to think of the Fit as the "ideal small car for a new age," where passenger space has been maximized and the "space occupied by mechanical components has been minimized." So what's changed since the previous generation? For starters, the new Fit is 20 mm wider and has a longer wheelbase (+50 mm) than its predecessor and the front pillar has been moved forward to create a more spacious interior. Honda claims that the body construction of the second-generation Fit is more rigid and that more sound-absorbing acoustic materials have been fitted. The entry-level model features a 100 hp 1.3-litre i-VTEC engine.

Since we're all about power, aerodynamics, gadgets and sex appeal, we're more interested in the Fit RS (signifying Road Sailing) model that will be powered by a new 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine, putting out 88 kW (120 hp). It won't blow your trousers away, but don't despair, you'll be riding around 19.6 km on a liter of petrol (45 mpg U.S.). Honda engineers have clearly devoted attention to practicality this time again, as the Fit comes with a rotating passenger seat, a feature that should be welcomed by those struggling with backache!

Detailed content

Honda to Begin Sales of the All-New Fit in Japan

TOKYO, Japan, October 18, 2007–Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced plans to begin sales in Japan of the all-new, completely redesigned Honda Fit on Friday, October 26, 2007. The Fit has gained popularity as a small car that features outstanding packaging, excellent fuel economy, and advanced styling.

The second-generation Fit was developed following the tradition of Honda’s man maximum, machine minimum^*1 concept with the goal of creating the ideal small car for a new age. To provide values which exceed customer expectations for a small car and to set a new benchmark in the highly competitive small car segment, packaging, utility and driving performance have been further advanced with the all-new Fit.

The packaging of the new Fit is based on Honda’s innovative center tank layout, with a longer wheelbase and wider track for enhanced interior space and practicality, combined with the small-car maneuverability of a 4.7-meter minimum turning radius. The front pillar has been moved forward to create a spacious interior, while the exterior boasts exhilarating styling. An ingenious interior layout helped create a comfortable cabin with space equivalent to a mid-sized sedan. The new Fit’s practicality has also been enhanced with four-mode “Ultra Seat” and three-mode “Ultra Luggage^*2” storage spaces.

The new Fit’s dynamic performance is made possible by a newly developed 1.3-liter i-VTEC engine that delivers maximum output of 73kW (100PS). Combined with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and newly developed torque converter, the engine provides enjoyable driving and class-leading^*3 24 km/l fuel economy^*4. The body rigidity and crash safety performance were also enhanced while maintaining weight equivalent to the previous model. Moreover, the newly designed chassis also helps achieve superior comfort and steady handling.

Newly added to the Fit lineup is a Road Sailing (RS) version which highlights a sportier and sophisticated character with a newly developed 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine and a specially designed suspension with enhanced styling and a richer feel.

Honda Fit was first introduced in Japan in June 2001. It is now being produced in six factories in five countries and sold in approximately 115 countries around the world, with cumulative sales of more than two million units^*5.

*1	Honda’s man maximum, machine minimum concept is a basic approach to car design that calls for maximizing the space available for humans and minimizing the space occupied by mechanical components.
*2	Standard equipment on Types L and RS, factory option on Type G.
*3	1.3-liter class
*4	Figures for Type G (FF) Fit, based on results of 10-15 mode fuel-efficiency testing by Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport.
*5	Honda calculations

Key features of the New Fit
	Exterior styling
	The exterior styling is intended to express both spaciousness and dynamic motion, with front pillars moved forward for an advanced, super-forward form. The fuel lid dovetails seamlessly with the monoform styling thanks to Honda’s first application of a push-lift opener. The door mirrors provide greater visibility with 30%*6 more surface area supported by a compact mount located at the base of the front quarter light. The addition of five new colors brings the total available body colors to twelve. *6 Honda calculations; compared to the previous model
	Packaging
	The center tank layout was carried over from the previous model to help maintain the maneuverability expected of a small car while allowing enhancement of cabin space and practicality. The overall length has been increased 55 mm*7 to 3,900 mm and the width 20 mm*7 to 1,695 mm, while the 1,525 mm*7 height remains the same as the previous model, allowing for use of tower parking. While the wheelbase has been increased 50 mm*7 to 2,500 mm, the tread size has also been increased to help optimize the steering angle and maintain the minimum turning radius of the previous model at 4.7 meters. An emergency tire repair kit is provided instead of a spare tire, freeing up 64 liters*8 of storage space beneath the floor. Combined with the space in the luggage room this brings the total available luggage space to an amazing 427 liters*8. The rear hatch opening is located 605 mm from the ground, making it easy to load and unload luggage. The rear doors also open to a wide 80° angle, providing even easier access for passengers and facilitating loading and unloading of luggage. *7 Honda calculations; compared to the previous model *8 Honda calculations in accordance with the VDA method
	Interior
	The cabin features an ingenious layout with equivalent space as one of Honda’s middle-class sedans, providing passengers a natural feeling of comfort. The large three-meter cluster provides superior visibility with permanent illumination. The speedometer, located in the center of the cluster, features a large LED display providing of a broad range of information, including current fuel economy and range indications. To ensure a comfortable driving position for all drivers, a tilt and telescopic steering column*9 as well as a ratchet-operated seat height adjuster*10 have been applied. The front quarter windows are three times*11 of the size of those in the previous model, and the width of the front pillar has been reduced by 20 mm*11 to provide enhanced visibility. A new Sky Roof provides even more sense of space and comfort in the cabin. The power sun shield can be opened and closed with the touch of a switch for a comfortable cabin all year round. The front seat is based on the seat frame of a middle-class sedan and fitted with springs and padding optimized for seat hold and ride comfort. The rear seats are 20 mmwider*11, 15 mm deeper*11, and have cushions 10 mm thicker*11 for enhanced ride comfort. The left and right headrests fit into the seat back for easy seat arrangement and 30%*11 better rearward visibilities. *9 Standard equipment on Type L and RS. *10 Standard equipment on Type L and RS; factory option on Type G. *11 Honda calculation; compared to the previous model
	Utility
	The four modes of “Ultra Seat” provide enhanced utility. Utility mode: Easy one-motion dive down and release operation of the rear seats. The luggage space can be extended to a maximum length of 1,720 mm*12 thanks to the spacious full-flat floor. Long mode: In Utility mode, place the passenger seat in the full reclining position to create a space up to 2,400 mm long to carry long objects. Tall mode: Fold up the rear seat cushions to take advantage of Fit’s 1,280 mm roof height—the perfect way to make space for tall items like house plants. Refresh mode: Remove the front seat headrests and put the front seats in full reclining position to stretch out across the front and rear seats for a rest. The three “Ultra Luggage” modes provide added practicality to Fit’s cargo space. Upper/Lower mode: Lift the flexible luggage board from the floor to separate the luggage space into upper and lower partitions. The net used to create the upper space is perfect for carrying irregularly shaped objects that won’t sit flat. Tall mode: Open the flexible luggage board to create enough space to load tall objects. Regular mode: The under floor space is perfect for storing sports gear or raincoats and umbrellas. And once the lid is on, you won’t have to worry about soiling your other luggage. The Fit interior is replete with practical utility, starting with 10 cup-holders and a wide range of easy-to-use storage spaces. A Honda HDD InterNavi*13 navigation system equipped with a 7-inch wide display and a 40GB hard disk is available as a factory option. And with the new Fit Honda introduces two new services to enhance the driving experience of members of the InterNavi Premium Club: New Road Data and Earthquake Information System. *12 As measured with the passenger seat moved all the way forward *13 Equipped with rear-camera, 7-inch wide display, TV (one-segment broadcasting), AM/FM tuner, DVD/CD player, AV input terminals, illuminated Audio Remote Control Switch, 4 speakers
	Powertrain
	The new Fit comes with either of two new engines: a 1.3 liter i-VTEC or a 1.5 liter i-VTEC. In addition to the superior low-rpm torque of its predecessors, the new 1.3l i-VTEC brings more power to the high rpm range and delivers enhanced fuel economy in everyday driving. The new four-valve configuration with enhanced intake performance and drive-by-wire technology combine to help achieve a power rating of 73 kW(100PS). The use of only one of the two intake valves at low rpm increases EGR efficiency, helping the Fit achieve a class-leading*14 24 km per liter*15 fuel economy. The new 1.5 liter i-VTEC delivers superior fuel economy combined with lively dynamic performance and plentiful torque throughout all speed ranges. Intake valve timing and clearance settings switch to match for low- and high-speed driving and optimized valve overlap in the low-, mid-, and high speed ranges enhances intake and exhaust efficiency for power output of 88 kW(120PS) and superior fuel economy of 19.6 km per liter*16. The Fit’s continuous variable transmission delivers enhanced drive and off-the-line acceleration thanks to the implementation of a new torque converter. Higher gear ratios also help improve fuel economy by keeping rpms low during cruising. The low-friction, high-efficiency oil pump and pulleys as well as a new creep control system provide optimized creep control at low speeds and during idling for improved fuel economy. *14 1.3 liter class *15 Calculations for Type G (FF) Fit, based on results of 10-15 mode fuel efficiency testing by Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport. *16 Calculations for Type RS (FF w/CVT) Fit, based on results of 10-15 mode fuel efficiency testing by Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport.
	Body
	Body construction and design have been ingeniously modified to improve body rigidity and crash safety performance even while maintaining the same weight as the previous model. Noise and vibration during idling as well as booming noise while cruising are quieter than ever thanks to highly efficient connections of structural members and enhanced body stiffness. The implementation of sound-absorbing acoustic materials in the roof, carpet, and dashboard insulation contribute both to greater quietness and to lower weight. The RS Type is equipped with special damping and acoustic materials to achieve quietness expected of more expensive vehicles.
	Chassis
	The newly designed chassis realizes both superior ride comfort and steady handling. The rigid body and supple suspension provide an exceptional dynamic performance. The new Fit features a McPherson strut front suspension. The H-shaped torsion beam rear suspension achieves the maximum possible space for the rear seats and cargo area as well as supple ride comfort and steady handling. The new electric power steering has more capacity than the previous model, and improvements to steering gear box rigidity and attachment points provide a more direct steering feel.
	Safety Performance
	The RS Type comes with Honda’s vehicle stability assist (VSA) system, which is the first implementation of VSA with a manual transmission vehicle in this class*17. In addition, engine torque control and DBW throttle control enable precise control of the vehicle in driving. A side curtain air bag system function with the front seat i-side air bag system to provide added protection against head injuries during side collisions. Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering Body provides enhanced self-protection and better compatibility in collisions with other vehicles. Honda pedestrian-injury reduction body design helps protect pedestrians from injury in the event of a collision. All Fit models are equipped with an electronic brake distribution ABS system plus brake assist functionality as standard equipment. In addition to an ISO FIX child seat bar, tether anchors are provided in both the left and right rear seats as standard equipment. *17 Both 1.3 liter and 1.5 liter classes
	Environmental Performance
	All types have been certified by the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport as having achieved a 75% reduction with respect to emissions regulations for 2005. All types equipped with CVT*18 exceed Japanese fuel economy standards for 2010 by 20%; G- and L-Type equipped with 4WD as well as RS-Type equipped with 5MT exceed Japanese fuel economy standards for 2010 by 5%; RS-Type equipped with 4WD comply with Japanese fuel economy standards for 2010. The use of VOCs in the cabin has been reduced to a minimum, and all types comply with indoor density guidelines set out by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare. *18 Type RS (FF/CVT) equipped with factory options exceed Japanese fuel economy standards for 2010 by 10%.
	Rotating passenger seat
	A rotating passenger seat is available to take full advantage of Fit’s ease of access. Incorporating the same styling, ride comfort, and bolstering as the base model, this exclusive seat has been designed with a specially contoured seat cushion for enhanced ease of access. Oversized bearings help ensure smooth rotation. 295 mm of foot space during rotation—a full 65 mm more than the previous model—has been achieved together with a seat height of 585 mm for enhanced ease of access. The tip up configuration of the ULTR SEAT Tall mode enables easy loading and unloading of a wheelchair through the rear seats.

Honda CR-Z Concept Debuts in Tokyo

Honda has released today initial info and photos for its' CR-Z (Compact Renaissance Zero) concept car to be unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in two weeks. Referred to as a next generation lightweight sports car, the CR-Z is clearly influenced by the compact front-wheel-drive sports car, CR-X (Civic Renaissance Model X), which was built from 1983 to 1991.

Honda highlights futuristic design, sporty driving dynamics and hi-tech user interface as well as a small environmental footprint. However, Honda is putting additional emphasis on the design approach of the CR-Z as it seeks to challenge compact car stereotypes. Honda states in the press release, “CR-Z - an expression intended to capture the idea of a renaissance in the design of compact cars that begins anew from fundamentals. ”

Honda is attempting to offset any negative “small car” vibes, which the original CR-X suffered, by emphasizing an interior which is open and spacious as opposed to claustrophobic and confined. This is achieved with the panoramic windshield, sun roof and lift gate which almost form a continuous sheet of glass. Combined with sporty driving dynamics and hybrid power plant the CR-Z sets to change the boring driving image of small hybrid cars.

A CR-X successor has been much anticipated for many years and with Honda's excellent brand image, particularly in the U.S, the return of the CR-X couldn't be timed better as hybrid popularity continues to increase.

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Detailed content

‘CR-Z’ stands for ‘Compact Renaissance Zero’—an expression intended to capture the idea of a renaissance in the design of compact cars that begins anew from fundamentals.

This design research model of a lightweight hybrid sports car features advanced technologies that deliver enjoyable driving for all while reducing the vehicle’s environmental footprint.

Exterior design

Designed to be ‘Futuristic and Dynamic’, the CR-Z combines powerful performance in a compact form with a futuristic image. For its frontal view, an over-sized grill with a high- performance look is offset by openings on each side that lighten the overall feel. In the rear, tube-shaped rear combination lamps ensure better rearward visibility. Design details emphasizing the CR-Z’s advanced image include door mirrors that provide high visibility in a stylish form, LED headlights patterned after luminous bodies to convey a sharp impression, and jaunty fin-shaped sub-lights. Large, 19-inch wheels are ready for dynamic driving performance.

Interior design

The key words for the CR-Z’s interior design are ‘Hi-tech and Sporty’. The goal was to create an all-new sporty interior that fuses the liberating feel of airy spaciousness with an advanced interface that brings out the fun of the drive. Mesh material on a simple framework construction is used throughout the interior to convey a light, sophisticated image without being oppressive. In the cockpit, the meter unit conveys the image of advanced technology ensconced in a piece of glass artwork, offering the functionality of immediate recognition while enhancing the driving experience with a futuristic and exhilarating feeling.

Honda PUYO Concept World Premiere in Tokyo

Honda has lifted our spirits this morning by revealing first details of Honda CR-Z Concept but has since crushed them with their second Tokyo Motor Show concept premiere, the PUYO. Ironically Honda states in the press release, “The PUYO was designed based on out-of-box thinking to provide fun for both the vehicle owner and people around them as well.” They had to think “out-of-the-box” to create a box?

It's no stunner, but closer look of the minimalist design has us moving past first impressions as the PUYO shows some interesting ideas for the “cornerless soft box” whose goal was to “create a personable design with the feel of an adorable pet”.

On the outside the PUYO has a gel body as a safety feature which is also luminescent. It can change color to communicate the vehicles condition as well as guide people into the proper operating position. This is important because the PUYO has four-wheel-steering which allows the entire vehicle to pivot 360 degrees.

With the entire upper half of the vehicle made of glass, the PUYO gives a sense of transparency while the interior seeks a “silky feel”. Interior features such as instrument panel monitor, elastic controls which rise up when started, luminous fluid displays and a joystick which replaces the traditional steering wheel all add to the overall mentality of the fun and friendly vehicle.

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Detailed content

'PUYO' is a Japanese onomatopoeia that expresses the sensation of touching the vehicle's soft body. It is meant to convey a warm, friendly impression.

The PUYO represents a new idea in mobility that brings together ‘clean’, ‘safe’ and ‘fun’ functionality in an environmentally responsible, people-friendly minimalist design featuring an ultra-high efficiency, small frame and fuel cell technology to please both users and onlookers alike.

Exterior design

The development theme for the PUYO exterior was to create a cornerless, ‘Seamless Soft Box’ form that is kind to both people and the environment. The goal was to create a personable design with the feel of an adorable pet, while taking advantage of the maximum spaciousness of the box-shaped design. The PUYO’s ‘gel body’ features soft materials to promote greater real-world safety. Moreover, the body has been made luminescent to guide people into the proper operating position and notify them of the vehicle’s condition, facilitating a more intimate relationship between people and their cars.

Interior design

Developed to have a ‘Silky Feel’, the PUYO’s interior is designed to provide a refreshing, people-friendly space imbued with a feeling of transparency. Features such as an instrument panel monitor, controls that take advantage of the elastic qualities of cloth to rise up when the vehicle starts up, luminous fluid meter displays, and a joystick for intuitive operation are all designed to gently support occupants’ senses and sensibilities.