Author: Chathura Chanuka

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    “Evolution never stops!” GR Yaris’s “Evo” machine ! Test drive the “GRMN Yaris Rally Package” on a dirt course .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Evolution never stops! The “”Evo”” machine of the GR Yaris! Test-drive the “”GRMN Yaris Rally Package”” on a dirt course!

    Driving in Depth! I found myself forgetting work and wanting to “”drive more!
    　The “”GRMN Yaris”” made its world premiere at the “”Tokyo Auto Salon 2022″” held in January this year.

    It is now a “”supercar! See 34 photos of the “”GRMN Yaris Rally Package,”” which also has an even greater sense of oneness between man and horse.

    　We have already reported on the test drive of the “”Circuit Package,”” and now we would like to introduce the “”Rally Package. We test drove the car on a special dirt course located in Sodegaura Forest Raceway in Chiba Prefecture.

    Toyota’s “”Rally Package,”” a non-paved course version of the GRMN Yaris

    　To review the GRMN Yaris a little, it is a model based on the GR Yaris with quick feedback of knowledge/know-how gained through motor sports activities, and has a body (increased rigidity & weight reduction), engine (increased torque & response/responsiveness), drivetrain (cross-ratio & increased strength), etc. ), etc., with an eye toward harder driving.

    　The details of these features are explained in detail in the previous test drive report, so we will not go into them here. ……

    　The GRMN Yaris Rally Package includes items that are designed for driving on non-paved roads, such as rally shock absorbers and sway bar link sets, under guards, and roll bars (with side bars).

    　These items are sold as “”GR parts for competitors”” for the GR Yaris.

    　The exclusive items for the Circuit Package are factory-installed, but the exclusive items for the Rally Package are dealer-installed due to regulations.

    　Since this was a dirt race, “”Dunlop Direzza 88R + RAYS”” tires and wheels were installed.

    The car was equipped with “”Dunlop Direzza 88R + RAYS”” tires and wheels.

    　The driver sits on a full bucket seat made by RECARO across the roll cage. The 5-point seatbelt is fastened and we are ready to start.

    　I had previously test driven a GR Yaris with the same items installed on the same course. My impression at that time was that it was a very controllable and enjoyable model to drive, but the GRMN Yaris goes above and beyond.

    　I was impressed by the level of “”4WD Jinba Ittai”” (4WD Jinba Ittai), which gives a strong sense of control.

    　Since non-paved roads have less grip than paved roads, driving forward while allowing the car to slide is required, and especially when entering a corner, it is important to make more active use of load transfer.

    　However, the author is not a professional on non-paved roads, so when test driving the GR Yaris, it was difficult to get a sense of the grip, resulting in unnecessary under/oversteer.

    　At that time, as a matter of fact, I was riding thinking, “”Is this what it’s like?”” However, when I drove the GRMN Yaris and entered a corner at the same speed and under the same maneuvers, the nose of the car pointed more toward the inside than the GR Yaris.

    　Also, when the car slides, the GRMN Yaris communicates clearly with the car and responds to its actions without any unintended and unnecessary movements, whereas the GR Yaris has a strong sense of taming a rampaging horse.

    　Even when the car makes a change in behavior, the movement seems slow (in fact, it is quite fast), which is probably due to the lack of abrupt movements and the high controllability.

    　In this area, in addition to the improved body rigidity (spot +541 points & structural adhesive +12m) that has increased responsiveness to operation and toughness to receive inputs, the evolution of the powertrain (increased torque & changed gear ratios) has made it possible to extract the necessary power exactly when the driver wants it. The synergistic effect of these improvements in various parts of the car is evident in the driving performance.

    　When you have a more trusting relationship with your car, driving becomes not only more enjoyable but also more challenging.

    　At first, I too was just exploring, but in the end I was able to drive like a dirt track driver, turning sideways as I entered the car. To be honest, I forgot about work and thought to myself, “”I wish I could drive longer! I was so happy to be able to forget about my work and just keep on driving.

    Evolution never stops! The “”Evo”” machine of the GR Yaris! Test drive the “”GRMN Yaris Rally Package”” on a dirt course

    GR Yaris is not finished! Evolution “”Continues onward””
    　It’s time to conclude our test drive impressions of the GRMN Yaris Rally Package.

    　It is said that it is easier to understand a car’s qualities on non-paved roads than on paved roads, but the GRMN Yaris is definitely at a level that makes me jealous as a GR Yaris owner.

    I found myself forgetting about work and wanting to drive more! I was having so much fun that I wanted to drive more! Toyota “”GRMN Yaris “”Rally Package

    I would like to say out loud, “”Please buy one,”” but the limited 500-unit lot is almost full (there is still time to order more due to cancellations by winners), so there is no way to order one now. ……

    　What is the meaning of holding this test drive event at such a time?

    　I think it means that “”this is not the goal.

    　I interpreted the message as, “”The evolution of the GR Yaris will continue in the future, and we want you to fully understand the process along the way.

    　In fact, a letter from President Akio Toyoda was sent to those who applied for the GRMN Yaris (I was one of them).

    　The letter is a long one, covering three sheets of letterhead, but I would like to introduce a small part of it.

    The development is still going on. GR Yaris will never be completed.

    　Even though it will never be completed, I believe it is our responsibility at Toyota to deliver the ‘forged results’ to our customers from time to time.

    　We will continue to train the GR Yaris more and more, and you can look forward to its growth.

    We look forward to your continued support for the GR Yaris and the GRMN Yaris.”

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    Stable control and powerful sound for the blow-off of “GR Yaris”! HKS “Super SQV IV” released .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Stability control and powerful sound for the “”GR Yaris”” blow-off! HKS “”Super SQV IV”” now on sale

    Suction return hose to meet safety standards also included
    　Automotive aftermarket parts manufacturer HKS (HKS) has added a new version of its sequential blow-off valve “”Super SQV IV”” for the Toyota “”GR Yaris””.

    “”Super SQV IV”” for GR Yaris – View during suction return
    Super SQV IV”” for GR Yaris, at the time of atmospheric release

    The “”blow-off valve”” is a pressure relief valve that is essential for engines with turbochargers. The “”Super SQV IV”” has HKS’ unique sequential valve structure that enables pressure control over a wide operating range from low to high boost range.

    　HKS says that the aforementioned sequential valve structure and the triple fins set in the center of the funnel “”create a one-of-a-kind blow-off sound with an overwhelming presence”” (from the release).

    　In addition, the intercooler out side pipe has been changed from the stock resin pipe to a cast aluminum pipe with HKS logo to prevent expansion and breakage due to age-related deterioration. The kit consists of a stock air bypass valve that is not canceled.

    　The price is 74,800 yen (excluding tax).”

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    “Too handsome!” U-shaped construction donated program prize money “3 million yen” to Tochigi prefecture, prefecture to purchase Nissan “Leaf” “Local love is amazing” voice of praise .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Too manly!”” Ujigaku donates 3 million yen to Tochigi prefecture to purchase a Nissan LEAF car.

    The new LEAF we’ll see in the summer features a shiny new Nissan emblem and innovative wheels!
    　Tochigi Prefecture Governor Tomikazu Fukuda revealed at a regular press conference on June 28, 2022, that he will use the 3 million yen donated by the comedy duo U-jikken to purchase a Nissan “”Leaf”” electric vehicle and an external power feeder.

    Tochigi Prefecture purchased with “”3 million yen”” donated by U-jikken! View in pictures .
    　The use of the money was decided based on the desire from U-jikken, who serves as Tochigi’s Future Ambassador, to “”use the money for disaster countermeasures.

    What is Nissan’s “”LEAF”” that can be used as a “”running storage battery”” (emergency power source) in times of disaster?

    　The aforementioned donation of 3 million yen was used for the quiz variety show “”Quiz! Are you smarter than a fifth grader? (Nippon Television Network Corporation), in which Ujiken answered all the questions correctly.

    　The two Ujikiku members donated the prize money to Tochigi Prefecture. In response, Tochigi Prefecture decided to purchase a set of electric vehicles that can be used as “”running storage batteries”” to supplement emergency power sources at evacuation centers, as well as an external power supply unit.

    　The person in charge at Tochigi Prefecture explained about the LEAF vehicles purchased this time as follows.

    The LEAF was selected because of the location of Nissan’s plant in Tochigi Prefecture and the price of 3 million yen. We are in the process of placing the order (as of July 1), and the vehicle will be delivered in the near future.

    　Governor Fukuda also said at the aforementioned press conference, “”I would like to thank the two members of U-Jigeki once again and sincerely hope that they will continue to be active as representatives of Tochigi Prefecture in the future.

    　On social networking sites, the prize money donation by Ujikakuten has been praised as “”cool”” and “”their love for their hometown is amazing.

    * * *

    　The first generation model of Nissan’s electric vehicle, LEAF, was introduced in 2010. The current model is the second generation, fully remodeled in 2017.

    　It is produced not only in Japan but also at plants in the United States and the United Kingdom, and by 2020, the 10th anniversary of its birth, it will have reached a cumulative global sales volume of 500,000 units.

    　Incidentally, Nissan explains that the actual purchase price of the current LEAF (including consumption tax) will start at approximately 2.93 million yen if the subsidy for promoting the introduction of clean energy vehicles is utilized.”

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    “Seriously Disney Interior” is amazing ! The new “Hiace Camper” is too “Toy Story” ! Limited sale of 30 units for 7.2 million yen .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “The “”Serious Disney Interior”” is Amazing! New “”Hiace Camper”” is too “”Toy Story””! Limited sale of 30 units for 7.2 million yen

    Playful “”Toy Story”” Campervan
    　Toy Factory, a camper specialty store, announced that it will sell a limited edition “”TOY’S BOX 95″” camper based on the world of the Disney & Pixar movie “”Toy Story.

    The seats are woody-patterned! See 18 images of a “”Toy Story”” spec camper that can perfectly accommodate overnight stays in a car.

    TOY’S BOX 95″” camper expressing the world of “”Toy Story

    Toy Story”” was first released in 1995 and has become a popular movie around the world. The world of “”Toy Story”” has been expressed in Toy Factory’s popular “”TOY’S BOX”” camper.

    　The base model “”TOY’S BOX”” is a Toyota Hiace (Super Long) camper with simple, spacious and easy-to-use interior furnishings and high load capacity for leisure activities.

    　It also features the same basic equipment as Toy Factory’s high-end campers, such as triple insulation, full aero windows for improved ventilation and functionality, an easy-to-use electrical control panel, solar panel, ACON, refrigerator-freezer, TV, and roof ventilation fan, as well as optional equipment. The new model is said to be able to flexibly respond to various travel styles by combining these optional features.

    　The new “”TOY’S BOX 95″” features an upper storage box, sky-blue curtains, cabinets, and furniture doors inspired by the room of Andy, the human boy who lives among the toys in “”Toy Story,”” as well as seat fabrics in “”yellow, navy, and brown,”” inspired by the costume of Woody, the main character in the story. The seats are upholstered in a combination of yellow, navy, and brown Bishu fabric and leather, inspired by the costume of Woody, the main character in the story.

    　In addition, a console tray between the driver’s seat and the front passenger’s seat was originally designed with a motif of Andy’s toy box. The floor mats and step mats are original specifications with the “”Toy Story”” logo.

    　In addition, classically designed aluminum wheels that match the atmosphere of the vehicle are mounted. The wheel caps have the original logo.

    　Other items include special decals, a plate with serial numbers, a leather key chain, a set of dishes (for four people) not for sale, and an original DIY sticker sheet, allowing customers to enjoy “”Toy Story”” to the fullest.

    The “”TOY’S BOX 95″” measures 5380 mm (length) x 1920 mm (width) x 2285 mm (height) and can accommodate five passengers (seven optional), with sleeping capacity for five.

    　It will be available with 2.7-liter gasoline or 2.8-liter diesel engines, and with 2WD or 4WD drive systems.

    　The price (including consumption tax) will start at 7.2 million yen. 30 units will be sold by lottery, with the lottery period from July 16 to July 24, 2022, and applications will be accepted by entry sheet at Toy Factory directly managed stores (except Tokyo store).”

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    Toyota “Hiace” is cool ! “Attack” custom with down look over fender!

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota’s “”Hiace”” is getting cool! Down-look over fenders for an “”aggressive”” custom look!

    Aggressive Style for the Hiace!
    　Ltd. has added a new size to its down-look over fenders for the Toyota Hiace (200 series) under the “”Roadster”” Hiace custom brand.

    This is so cool! The Hiace dressed up with Obafen installed is so cool!
    Toyota “”Hiace”” dressed up with down-look over fenders

    　The 20mm down-look allows for an aggressive dress-up without forcibly lowering the vehicle height. On the other hand, the ride comfort is said to be kept intact.

    　The 10mm wider width on each side is compliant with vehicle inspections, so you can customize your vehicle with peace of mind.

    　Installation is easy with double-sided tape and can be screwed on the underside of the fender.

    　The material used is FRP (unpainted * black gel coat), and the simple design matches any genre.

    　The price (including tax) for the down-look over fenders, which are compatible with both the standard and wide bodies of the 200 series Hiace, is 32,780 yen per set (for one vehicle).”

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    Sound is important around the front … Nissan Skyline Part 2 .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Focusing on Sound in the Front Area…Nissan Skyline Part 2 [Installation Review] 2022/7/02 (Sat) 20:00

    In addition to the Skyline’s trunk, a high quality audio system was installed in the cockpit area to fully enjoy the high sound quality. The front speakers are Rockford T3652-S, which have a unique liquid crystal polymer diaphragm for a great-looking design. Illuminations are placed around the diaphragm to illuminate the diaphragm when the speakers are turned on.

    The A-pillar’s simple design creates a mature mood, and the T3’s tweeter has a milky-white diaphragm for ample impact. The tweeter has the same liquid crystal polymer diaphragm as the midbass. The unification of materials improves the sound connection between the mid-high and low midrange frequencies.
    The cockpit installation design is slightly less customizable. The system using the AV center unit was designed to meet the owner’s wishes, who chose a music player with an emphasis on sound quality.
    Mr. Rust (blue on gold) Tani is installing audio equipment one after another in his beloved Nissan Skyline. The front end of the car is fully armed with high-quality Rockford speakers. In contrast to the elaborate customization of the trunk, the Warps from Hiroshima Prefecture put sound to the test.

    In addition to the simple design of the outer baffle
    Illumination treatment was also included to inject a dress-up effect.
    In addition to the Skyline’s trunk, a high quality audio system was installed in the cockpit area to enjoy high quality sound
    The Rockford T3652-S front speakers were chosen for their unique liquid crystal polymer diaphragm and attractive design.
    The diaphragm can be illuminated when the speaker is turned on, thanks to the illuminated surround.
    The diaphragm can be illuminated by the illumination around the spiker.
    As mentioned in the first part of this report, Mr. Sakitani acquired the Skyline with the priority of driving, but he started installing audio equipment under the influence of a senior colleague. He was hooked and is now immersed in the deep world of audio. The first thing that he modified in the audio installation was the front speakers.

    The speakers chosen were Rockford T3652-S. The T3 is a highly acclaimed model among Rockford’s front speakers, a two-way speaker that features a unique diaphragm called LCPF (liquid crystal polymer) for both the midbass and tweeter to unify the sound tone. The midbass unit is mounted on the door.

    The midbass unit is installed by assembling an outer baffle on the door. The pockets were left intact, and only the front of the door was modified to create the baffle, a simple structure designed for ease of use and to improve sound quality. The use of Rockford speaker grilles is another favorite of the owner. The grille has a large opening area, which is advantageous in terms of sound quality. In addition, the speaker mounting area is surrounded by illumination to light up the area around the diaphragm. The owner is also particular about the customization elements.

    ◆Impressive tweeter design
    A-pillar custom treatment is beautifully done.
    A-pillar is designed simply to create a mature mood, and the T3’s tweeter has a milky white diaphragm that makes a great impact.
    The simple design of the A-pillars creates a mature mood, and the T3 tweeter has a milky white diaphragm that makes a strong impact.
    The tweeter has the same liquid crystal polymer diaphragm as the midbass. The unification of the materials improves the sound connection between the mid-high and low midrange frequencies.

    The cockpit installation design is slightly less customizable. The aim was to create a high quality sound for enjoying driving music.
    The cockpit installation design is slightly restrained in terms of custom elements. The aim was to create a space where one can enjoy driving music with high sound quality.
    The T3 speakers feature a common diaphragm (LCPF: a proprietary material called liquid crystal polymer) for the midbass and tweeter. In terms of design, the milky white diaphragm is one of the features not found in other speakers. The midbass is constructed with an outer baffle to show the diaphragm, as mentioned earlier. The tweeter mounted on the A-pillar has the same milky-white diaphragm visible through the grille as the midbass, making it a very impressive unit from any angle of vision.

    The A-pillar was modified to install the tweeter as a built-in unit. The mounting surface of the tweeter is at a favorable angle for acoustic characteristics, and the design of the surrounding area was also created to integrate the tweeter into the pillar design in a smart way. The entire pillar was reupholstered using black fabric. The pillar processing, which is less flashy in coloring as well as modeling, accentuates the presence of the tweeter.

    ◆The tag team of AV main unit and smartphone
    Creating a music player environment with high-quality sound reproduction
    The system using the AV center unit is just as the owner wished, with the music player selected with an emphasis on sound quality.

    The sound source is concentrated on the smartphone, but for everyday use. The concept is to enjoy the music always carried and listened to in the car with high sound quality..
    Sabatani is pleased with the current installation and sound, and has plans for further audio customization in the future.

    He chose Carrozzeria’s FH-9400DVS as his music player, an AV main unit with a 7V-inch screen. The owner was particular about using an audio main unit with good sound rather than a navigation system. The smartphone is used as the sound source, but it is also linked to the AV main unit to enhance operability.

    The owner is considering customizing the cockpit area to match the carefully crafted trunk room described in the previous section. He said that he would like to add his own custom design using fabrics and FRP treatment in the future.

    The owner says that the best thing about car audio is that “”I can listen to my favorite songs in high quality sound, which makes driving fun. He also likes the fact that the trunk compartment has a sporty design that matches the car’s image and is installed in a way that is consistent with the car. We look forward to the next evolution of this unique audio installation.

    After working as a digital audio engineer, Tsuchida became an editor at a publishing company. He worked in the editorial departments of motorcycle and 4WD magazines. After becoming independent, he has been involved in writing for car audio, cars, wristwatches, mono-related, interior, and outdoor-related magazines, and was also contracted to serve as editor-in-chief of a car audio magazine. Currently, he is still active in writing mainly for car audio magazines.”

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    EV that old car lovers want to ride, Porsche “Taikan” is the first place .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “EVs that Old Car Lovers Want to Drive, No. 1 is Porsche’s TYCOAN July 2, 2022, 4:00 p.m.

    Do you want to drive an EV in the future? Do you want to continue to drive old cars, or would you like to drive old cars converted to EVs?
    Current Automobile, which operates the old car purchase service “”King of Old Cars,”” conducted a survey on EVs asking old car enthusiasts. The EV that old car enthusiasts most wanted to drive was the Porsche “”Taikan.

    In recent years, automakers have been releasing EV models and electrification is accelerating. Meanwhile, the popularity of old cars is also increasing. This time, the Old Car King conducted a survey on EVs targeting 167 men and women interested in old cars (pre-2010 model year).

    First, when asked whether they would like to drive EVs in the future, 46.1% said they would like to continue driving old cars, 29.3% were unsure, and 24.6% said they would like to drive EVs in the future. It seems that many old car enthusiasts still want to continue driving old cars in the future. However, there were also many who answered that they were not sure, and may consider doing so if an EV that attracts old car enthusiasts also comes out in the future.

    Next, when asked if they would like to drive an old car converted to EV, 58.7% said “”no,”” 31.1% said “”yes,”” and 10.2% said “”don’t know. Many people seem to think that by converting old cars to EVs, the original engine will be converted to a motor, thus losing the flavor of the old car. However, 31.1% of the respondents answered “”yes,”” indicating that there are a certain number of people who are interested in old cars converted to EVs. Converting old cars to EVs is not yet common due to the cost involved, but it may become a more widespread option as EVs become more popular in the future.

    Finally, when asked about EVs that old car enthusiasts would like to drive, the most common answer was “”none”” (47.3%), with the Porsche Taikan (8.4%) coming in second. In third place was the simple and cute compact EV “”Honda e”” (4.8%). Since Honda is focusing on supplying this model to Europe, it is not often seen on the road in Japan, but this may be one of the reasons why people are interested in driving one. The Audi e-tron came in fourth (4.2%), followed by the Toyota bz4x (3.6%) in fifth place.”

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    DS 7 Crossback improved new model, car name is “DS 7” … New front mask announced in Europe

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “DS 7 Crossback Revised and Renamed DS 7…New Front Mask Announced in Europe
    New grille and daytime running lights give it a new look

    OPERA”” interior, unique to DS

    Sporty “”DS Performance Line”” version available

    Friday, July 1, 2022, 9:30 p.m.

    On June 27, DS unveiled the all-new DS 7 CROSSBACK in Europe, the DS brand’s top-of-the-line SUV undergoing its first major upgrade since its debut in 2017. The car has been renamed the DS7 following the major improvements.

    ◆New grille and daytime running lights give it a new look

    The new model adopts the latest version of DS Pixel LED “”3.0″” for the headlights. The new front mask features a larger grille and the newly designed “”DS LIGHT VEIL”” daytime running lights.

    The LED tail lamps with a swirl design inside the lens are also new. These LED taillights have a dark metallic finish. The trunk lid and emblem have been changed to sharper lines. The “”DS AUTOMOBILES”” logo replaces the traditional “”CROSSBACK”” to visually emphasize the stretched rear design.

    The aluminum wheels also have a new design. The new 19-inch “”EDINBURGH”” and “”SILVERSTONE”” wheels with inserts improve aerodynamic performance, while the new design gives the wheels a larger diameter appearance.

    ◆DS’s unique “”OPERA”” interior

    The OPERA interior, which is unique to DS, is available in Basalt Black or Pearl Gray Nappa leather. The Nappa leather trim has a new drape-effect finish on the dashboard and door panels. The leather is said to feel and look like natural leather without seams or seams, and the quality of the leather is further enhanced by embossed lines reminiscent of the DS LIGHT VEIL signature.

    The attention to detail in the interior is also expressed in the pearl stitching on the new White and Zephyr interior colors, the full-grain leather steering wheel with leather-covered airbags, and the unique DS “”ClousdeParis”” embossed inserts. For the first time, a watch strap pattern is available in the Pearl Gray interior color.

    A new interior color called “”RIVOLI”” Black was introduced. The RIVOLI interior with stitch pad trim combined with a more prominent Claudia leather version is also available.

    ◆Sporty “”DS Performance Line”” version available
    The DS Performance Line version is available. The chrome DS wing and rear garnish of the standard version are replaced with a matte black finish for the DS Performance Line. The diamond-shaped grille on the front grille and roof rails are finished in glossy black. While keeping the details in black, the aim is to create a rich expression by using a variety of gloss, materials, and textures.

    The dashboard, center console, and door trim covered in Art Finish leather are finished in Alcantara. In addition, carmine red and gold stitching accents the Alcantara seat stitching in a diamond pattern that expresses the originality unique to DS, as well as a sporty perforated D-shaped steering wheel.

    Exclusive 19-inch wheels are paired with 235/50R19 size tires. These 19-inch aluminum wheels are highlighted by a machined shine. In addition, the center caps are accented with carmine red. Floor mats and front door step guards exclusive to the Performance Line are also employed.”

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    Nissan’s flagship European SUV, “Qashqai” e-POWER … to be released in September

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Nissan’s mainstay SUV in Europe, the Qashqai, to be equipped with e-POWER…to be launched in September
    1.5-liter turbocharged engine with variable compression ratio technology exclusively for power generation

    Three different driving modes can be switched

    One pedal covers up to 90% of driving situations

    Friday, July 1, 2022, 7:30 p.m.

    The new Nissan Qashqai e-POWER The new Nissan Qashqai e-POWER The new e-POWER Nissan Qashqai The new e-POWER Nissan Qashqai
    On June 27, Nissan’s European division announced that it will launch the new Nissan Qashqai with e-POWER in the European market in September. This will be the first e-POWER-equipped model in Europe.

    ◆1.5-liter turbo engine with variable compression ratio technology exclusively for power generation
    The conventional Qashqai is a remodeled version of the SUV that was once sold in Japan as the Duallis. Since the Dualis was integrated into the Extrail in the Japanese market, the Qashqai has not been introduced to the Japanese market since the previous model. The new Qashqai is Nissan’s main SUV in the European market.

    The new Qashqai will be the first in Europe to be equipped with e-POWER. e-POWER is characterized by the fact that the gasoline engine is used only for power generation, while the electric motor provides the drive. This means that the engine always operates within its optimum range, which is said to result in superior fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions compared to conventional internal combustion engines.

    In the case of the new Qashqai, the e-POWER system’s motor produces a maximum output of 190 hp and maximum torque of 33.6 kgm. The 1.5-liter inline 3-cylinder gasoline turbocharged engine, which is dedicated to power generation, features variable compression ratio technology (compression ratio range of 8:1 to 14:1) and delivers maximum output of 156 hp and maximum torque of 25.5 kgm. e-POWER system includes a gasoline engine, generator, inverter, and electric motor in one unit. and electric motor are designed as an integrated unit. No recharging is required. The European combined mode fuel consumption is 18.9km/liter and CO2 emissions are 119g/km (both in WLTP cycle).

    Three modes of operation can be switched
    The new Nissan Qashqai e-POWER has three driving modes: Standard, Sport, and Eco. Standard produces excellent acceleration, and the regenerative braking works like the engine braking of a conventional gasoline vehicle. In Sport mode, the engine spends less time idle, enhancing acceleration response. In Eco mode, battery management is optimized to conserve fuel by coasting during low-load driving, such as on highways.

    In all modes, “”B mode”” can be selected. This increases the amount of energy recovered when the accelerator pedal is off, allowing the driver to efficiently decelerate without using the brake pedal.

    The new Qashqai with e-POWER boasts that it not only accelerates faster than rival hybrids, but also at lower engine speeds. The system is said to operate as quietly as a full EV, with an emphasis on linking engine speed to engine rpm, resulting in a high level of quietness even during acceleration.

    ◆One pedal covers up to 90% of the driving scene
    Like the EV LEAF, the new Qashqai with e-POWER enables “”one-pedal”” driving, called “”e-Pedal”” mode. The driver can start, accelerate, and decelerate using only the accelerator pedal. The system is said to be capable of covering up to 90% of driving situations.

    In urban driving conditions where stop-and-go driving is common, the e-pedal mode provides up to 0.2G of deceleration G when the driver takes his/her foot off the accelerator pedal. The need to switch between gas pedal and brake pedals is significantly reduced, making driving easier and more relaxing, according to the company.

    When parking, the e-pedal is optimized to provide a creep phenomenon, which requires the use of the brake pedal to bring the vehicle to a stop. On winding roads, the system reduces the chance of braking while cornering. Drivers can monitor the e-POWER’s energy flow and check the system’s status on a 12-inch TFT meter on the dashboard, according to the company.”

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    Infiniti’s new SUV coupe “QX55”, improved comfort … 2023 model to be released in the United States this summer

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Infiniti’s New QX55 SUV Coupe Improves Comfort…2023 Model to Go on Sale in U.S. This Summer
    Perforated leather interior.

    Mesh patterned grille inspired by Japanese origami paper

    VC Turbo, the world’s first variable compression ratio engine

    Dual screens in infotainment system

    Friday, July 1, 2022 7:00 p.m.

    Infiniti, Nissan’s luxury car brand for overseas markets, announced the 2023 model year of the Infiniti QX55 SUV coupe in the United States on June 28. It will go on sale in the U.S. market this summer.

    ◆Perforated leather interior.

    The QX55 is Infiniti’s re-entry into the luxury crossover coupe market, one of the fastest growing segments.

    For its 2023 model year, the QX55 is well-equipped. These include perforated leather interior, 4-way power lumbar support for the driver’s seat, rear door handles with LED welcome lights, and Type C USB ports on the rear seats.

    The ESSENTIAL grade adds a traffic sign recognition system. It also features cube-design LED headlights with self-leveling and an adaptive front lighting system. The SENSORY grade has heated second-row seats.

    ◆Mesh patterned grille inspired by Japanese origami paper

    Infiniti launched the first generation FX in the North American market in 2003. Infiniti positions the first-generation FX as having pioneered the currently popular luxury crossover coupe market. Infiniti returned to the segment established by the first-generation FX in 2003 with the QX55, the only luxury mid-size SUV coupe in the category to be developed in Japan. In addition to its bold exterior, the QX55 has a luxurious interior and features innovative technology in terms of connectivity and other aspects. It is said to have been designed to target a new group of buyers, including younger generations who are tech-savvy and prefer bold designs.

    The design of the QX55 is a reinterpretation of the FX silhouette while maintaining Infiniti’s bold design. The iconic double-arch grille is said to express modern Japanese-inspired artistry by creating depth through a mesh pattern inspired by Japanese origami paper. The body side design features elegant, flowing lines from the hood, through the front fenders and door panels to the rear fenders. 20-inch wheels are standard equipment on all models, reducing the gap between the body and the wheels and asserting the SUV’s dynamic presence.

    The taillights, with 45 LEDs in a single housing, were intended to look like the keys of a digital piano. These LED taillights were also introduced in the QX60 Monograph, a design study model. The “”INFINITI”” logo was placed on the tailgate. A smart power liftgate was also adopted.

    ◆World’s first variable compression ratio engine “”VC Turbo
    The powertrain is an inline four-cylinder gasoline engine with variable compression ratio “”VC Turbo. It draws a maximum output of 268hp and maximum torque of 38.7kgm. The VC Turbo engine developed by Nissan is the world’s first variable compression ratio engine for mass production. The variable compression ratio technology utilizes a multi-link system that seamlessly changes the upper dead center position of the piston, and features a quick change to the optimum compression ratio.

    The compression ratio can be freely changed between 8:1 (high performance) and 14:1 (high efficiency). Depending on operating conditions, the engine’s control logic automatically selects the optimal compression ratio. This technology also offers many advantages, such as significant reductions in fuel consumption and emissions, noise and vibration levels, and a lighter and more compact design compared to existing engines.

    The transmission is a CVT with manual mode, and the drive system is 4WD “”Intelligent AWD. The drive mode selector allows the driver to choose between “”Standard,”” “”Eco,”” “”Sport”” and “”Personal”” modes.

    ◆Infotainment system with dual screens

    The interior features INFINITI InTouch, a dual-screen infotainment system that is compatible with the wireless Apple CarPlay. It also supports Google’s Android Auto and has multiple USB input terminals.

    The high-resolution screen, 8 inches on the upper side and 7 inches on the lower side, is combined with a BOSE audio system that comes with up to 16 speakers. The company claims that the system delivers a concert-like acoustic experience that entertains the driver and passengers.

    Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)”