Tokyo - Arabstoday
Honda Air concept
The Honda Air concept was the vehicle Honda entered into the 2010 LA Auto Show\'s Design Challenge competition.For 2010 the competition organizers had asked several design,
studios of major manufacturers to design a car which weighed under 1,000 lbs (454 kgs), could carry up to four people, and was both safe and comfortable.
Because none of the concept cars entered into the competition will ever be made, it\'s a great excuse for the designers to really let their imaginations run wild, and forget about engineering or manufacturing limitations which might otherwise dilute their \'pure\' conceptual ideas.
The Honda Air is a vision of the future of lightweight and alternative fuel performance vehicles; a coastal cruiser for the aggressive lifestyle. Inspired by roller coasters as well as skydiving wing-suits, the Honda Air is powered by a compressed air and pneumatic regulator system. It utilizes turbo vacuums and external air-flow to regenerate tank pressure for extended range and increased boost for an estimated 100 miles. The chassis doubles as the master tank and all components, including seating, are mounted to the central chassis/tank to eliminate redundant structure and reduce overall weight.
Body panels and fairings made from vegetable based polymers protect the occupants. The Honda Air\'s cockpit is aimed at maximizing the open air driving experience. In order to reduce weight and increase performance and efficiency, a hub-less wheel and drive system eliminates the use of heavy drive train components. Glass reinforced seating panels, urethane tire composition and skeletal sub-frame components combine for drastic weight savings.
Using a Honda generator / air compressor at home or tire filler at your local filling station, the main air tanks and reserves can be filled quickly and safely.