Toyota to Launch Electric Car in 2012
In response to GM’s Volt and Nissan’s all-electric cars, both of which are due out this year, Toyota has jumped into the mix and is promising a fully electric option by 2012. The “race” for zero emissions vehicles is apparently on – finally. Although all automobile manufacturers are still careful to point to the limitations in current battery technology that is required to power all electric vehicles.
With GM, Nissan and now Toyota announcing all-electric vehicles, the paradigm shift may finally be upon us. The next step will be increasing the size of the all-electrics and then improving on the batter technology to improve vehicle performance, range and safety. All of this seems reasonably easy to achieve, given the technology that is available already and the resources required to advance that technology. Read the rest of this entry »
Mazda RX-8 PZ
In response to customer feedback, Mazda has introduced a more focused version of its coupe – RX-8 PZ. The four-door sports coupe went on sale in the United Kingdom last July. From July Mazda RX-8 PZ has already established a good standing in both sales and reviews.
RX-8 PZ used some of the outstanding RX8 parts Mazda RX 8 and accessories to create the high-power version of the coupe. PZ has been developed through the collaboration of Mazda with Prodrive, a leading motorsport company.
Mazda’s agreement with Prodrive is to build a special car model that has the standard attributes of RX-8 without sacrificing the passenger’s comfort. Moreover, Prodrive developed bespoke suspension settings after conducting several extensive testing on selected roads and motorways. Another specification made by Prodrive is the lowering of the ride height by 15mm.
Aside from said special collaboration, Mazda also sought the help of specialist component suppliers like Eibach, Bilstein and OZ Racing. Top-quality components from the mentioned suppliers were used in manufacturing Mazda RX-8 PZ. This is to ensure exclusivity and power of the new vehicle.
The company also contemplated on reducing the roll and pitch and to making a flatter cornering attitude hence special Bilstein dampers and Eibach coil springs were used. Moreover, Prodrive specifications were satisfied. The spring rates were also increased by 60 percent and the mono-tube dampers were given tighter body control. However, the superb compliance over ridges and bumps in the road was maintained. Read the rest of this entry »