Overheat
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Like the D-Compact 4x4 (see separate story), Daihatsu's HVS lightweight roadster is similarly non-aggressive in its impact. It "reconciles environmentally-friendly performance with the joy of driving at an unprecendented high level", says Daihatsu; it combines the 1.5-litre engine with a rear-mounted electric motor and four-wheel drive to give "a powerful and exhilarating drive reminiscent of a 2-litre car but with fuel economy exceeding that of a conventional 1-litre car." The left- and right-hand wheels can be controlled separately to give extra stability under hard cornering, and Daihatsu promises quick standing-start acceleration and instant throttle reactions - but carbon dioxide emissions of just 101g/km and 68.9mpg fuel economy. When can we buy one?
Daihatsu's third concept on display is the Copen ZZ, a hint as to how the miniscule Copen roadster could develop in the future. It's "a study model that further pursues the limitless joy that the Copen embodies", says Daihatsu; it is 110mm longer, 125mm wider and fitted with the 1.5-litre engine (103bhp, 103lb ft of torque). Whether or not the ZZ makes production may depend on the revised ready-for-sale Copen also on display; now offered in left-hand drive form for the first time, it has gained a rear spoiler, Recaro seats and a Momo steering wheel as standard, and the latest 1.3-litre VVT engine (86bhp), as in the Sirion and Toyota Yaris, with an advanced exhaust catalyst to keep emissions ultra-low.
Finally, Daihatsu is showing mildly made-over Cuore city cars - general updates to styling, with the three-door getting a little sportier and the five-door gaining more equipment - and revealed more about its 2CDDI-II technology. This is currently demonstrated a prototype two-cylinder, two-stroke 1200cc diesel engine, which promises to deliver 87bhp and a strong 170lb ft of torque, yet cut right down on fuel consumption and emissions, especially of harmful substances such as nitrous oxides. It combines exhaust gas recirculation - to enhance efficiency - with both a supercharger and turbocharger, to enhance performance, not unlike Volkswagen's Twincharger technology, albeit applied to a diesel engine.
. As a second car for the wife she just couldn't say no.
I've heard of people who'd rather cut their wrists than drive one of them more than a kilometer. They are not the best quality, nor are they comfortable nor do they move at at rate that a pushbike would have trouble keeping up with...
