Posted on 03/04/2008 1:16:07 PM PST by Red Badger
Toyota is introducing the production version of its iQ city car at the Geneva Motor Show. First shown as the Concept Car iQ at last year’s Frankfurt Motor Show, the iQ will go into production during late 2008. Toyota is also using the Geneva show to showcase a new small SUV concept—the Urban Cruiser—aimed at “the urban all-roader market”.
The new Toyota iQ measures 2,985mm in length and 1,500mm in height, but features a comparatively lengthy wheelbase of 2,000mm. Delivering a relatively spacious interior in such a compact car required six interlinking engineering innovations. Iq3
The six space-saving technologies in the iQ.
The six space-saving engineering innovations are as follows:
*
Newly developed differential. A newly developed differential allows the iQ to be built with short front overhangs, which result in a gain of more than 100mm of additional length inside the passenger cabin area when compared to the B-segment Yaris. As a result, the under-hood area is made more compact; the front wheels can be placed at the very corners of the car, which drastically shortens the front overhang; and the passenger compartment can be increased. *
Flat under-floor fuel tank with rear-angled shock absorbers. The design of the flat under-floor fuel tank has allowed the development of shorter rear overhangs, which contribute to the reduction of the car’s overall length. Historically, a flat tank was considered difficult to engineer successfully because of the variance in fuel surface levels depending on the angle of the car. However, Toyota’s efforts to downsize and find the optimal placement of functional parts resulted in a flat fuel tank that creates significant space savings. *
Smaller heater/air conditioning unit. Toyota engineers managed to significantly reduce the size of the heater/air conditioning unit without sacrificing performance output. As a result of the size reduction the passenger-side area of the asymmetric dashboard can be moved forward and towards the windscreen base freeing up additional cabin space. *
Asymmetric dashboard design and sliding seat configuration. The iQ’s asymmetric dashboard was designed to open up the passenger area. The pushed-forward and step-like structure of the dashboard provides sufficient space for the front passenger when the seat is set at its most forward position while comfortably accommodating an adult in the rear seat. Combined with shoulder-to-shoulder distance between driver and passenger of a similar volume to a C-segment vehicle, the unique 3+1 seating configuration creates enough room for three adults and, in addition, either a child or luggage behind the driver. *
Center take-off steering gear. Toyota has employed a center take-off steering gear and positioned it higher in the engine bay. The gear, engine and differential could then be repositioned creating the iQ’s size-reduced front overhang. *
Slim seat design. The slimness of the iQ seat backs release a further 40mm of rear passenger room at knee height so that rear passengers can sit more comfortably.
The iQ will have the choice of one of two gasoline or one diesel engine. These engines—along with the compact design, low weight, and aerodynamic shape of the iQ—will contribute to low fuel consumption and low emissions of CO2, expected to start at around 100g/km.
Urban_cruiser The new Urban Cruiser concept.
The Toyota Urban Cruiser is the design preview of the production model that will be introduced in the first half of 2009.
The small-SUV market segment has essentially doubled in size since 2002, according to Toyota. The Urban Cruiser is expected to come in with CO2 emissions below 140 g/km.
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Rest In Peace, old friend, your work is finished.....If you want ON or OFF the DIESEL ”KnOcK” LIST just FReepmail me.....
This is a fairly HIGH VOLUME ping list on some days.....
Thank the Maker!
I will take mine with one diesel engine, thank you.
As opposed to two gasoline engines.
My current ride is on its last legs, so I will be anxious for this.
This is just the beginning of the “DIESEL-IZATION of America”!...............
A lot more attractive than those silly-looking Smart cars....
What’s the MPG??
Definitely look “smarter”.........
It looks just like a VW Golf.
I’m referring to the Urban Cruiser.
I can’t seem to find any MPG data, but it should be in the 40-50 MPG range.......will keep looking........
Or a Skoda Fabia:
I’ll hate it if all cars start looking alike.
This is a small SUV. Works well for me and my stuff.
What you should be asking is what is the MPG per person.
*snort* Hey, the Shriners can get new cars!
Am I the only one who is conerned that the fuel tank is under the drivers seat?
Actually for this tin can it’s the MPD... Miles Per Death.
The first thing that caught my eye.
It was put there to encourage you to focus on your driving, and to discourage your smoking while driving, too.
The Toyota Urban Cruiser doesn’t have the ground clearance of my RAV4, which I need.
I remember the early diesel Rabbits were very good on mileage and on longevity. Why is it that whenever there is something good, they change it or drop it?
My eldest son and DIL both have diesel cars in England. I was enthralled at all those tiny cars over there.
Since I already have a larger car for the highway, I am now looking for a tiny thing just for around town, where I do approximately 90% of my driving.
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