kuruma

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    Audi Japan introduces e-tron qualification certification system … Trains EV sales specialists

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Audi Japan Introduces e-tron Qualification System…Training EV Sales SpecialistsJun 15, 2022 (Wed) 17:30

    On June 15, Audi Japan announced the introduction of the e-tron Qualification Certification System to train specialists in electric vehicle (EV) sales.

    The automotive industry is undergoing a once-in-a-century transformation due to the shift to electrification. In line with this shift, EV sales are now required to have the ability to explain and make proposals in an easy-to-understand manner with comprehensive knowledge of unique charging mechanisms and subsidies. With the introduction of the e-tron certification system, Audi Japan aims to further improve its services by ensuring that its sales staff has the necessary knowledge for EV sales and can make accurate proposals in response to customer requests. The certification system consists of two levels: e-tron Sales Consultant and e-tron Specialist.

    The e-tron Sales Consultant certification is designed to provide the knowledge necessary to sell Audi’s e-tron EV and to be able to make accurate proposals to customers. It takes four to five months from the start of training to certification. The training includes in-depth knowledge of the product, charging and infrastructure, sales processes, and other EV-related topics, followed by an examination to confirm mastery and case studies. As Audi’s own qualification certification system, the development training started in May 2022.

    Meanwhile, the e-tron Specialist is a fixed-term qualification for qualified e-tron Sales Consultants, who, as EV experts and specialists who keep abreast of the latest information on the industry and systems, are responsible for providing guidance to e-tron Sales Consultants at each Audi e-tron store. He is also responsible for providing guidance to the e-tron sales consultants at each Audi e-tron store. The certification is scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2022, when the Q4 e-tron is scheduled to be introduced.

    Through the e-tron certification system, Audi Japan will build a strong sales structure as part of its electrification strategy, and as a premium EV brand, Audi Japan will strengthen its support system to enable customers to purchase and own Audi EVs with peace of mind.

    “

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    Tein’s full spec harmonic drive “FLEX A” added for Elgrand

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “TEIN’s Full-Spec Ride Height Adjustable Suspension “”FLEX A”” for ElGrand Added to Lineup of Applicable Vehicles2022/6/15 14:30
    TEIN Adds Elgrand Ride Height Adjustable Suspension “”FLEX A”” to its Lineup of Compatible Vehicle Models

    TEIN Adds ElGrand to its Lineup of Compatible Vehicle Models for Full-Spec Ride Height Adjustable Suspension “”FLEX A
    TEIN, a specialized suspension manufacturer, has added the Nissan “”ElGrand”” to its lineup of FLEX A coilover kits.

    This is a full-spec ride height adjustable shock absorber product equipped with “”Hydro Bump Stopper (H.B.S.),”” a mechanism that was fed back from overseas rallies.

    Even the third seat of a fully loaded minivan provides a comfortable ride that defies conventional wisdom. To improve the relaxed body roll and steering feeling of the normal vehicle, a moderate sense of restraint is provided.”

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    Toyota “bZ4X”, Sumitomo Riko’s anti-vibration rubber and sound-insulating products adopted

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Toyota “”bZ4X”” Adopts Sumitomo Riko’s Anti-Vibration Rubber and Sound Insulation Products June 14, 2022, 5:45 p.m.

    Toyota bZ4X product equipped eAxle mounts. The three points in the front are for the rear and the three points in the back are for the front: stabilizer bushings (upper left), suspension bushings (upper right), coil insulator (lower left), strut mount (lower right)Cooling pipes for the electrical system (water system hose)eAxle cover
    Sumitomo Science & Engineering has announced that its EV-compatible products, including anti-vibration rubber, hoses, and sound insulation products, have been adopted by Toyota Motor Corporation’s new SUV-type EV, bZ4X, launched on May 12, 2012.

    The bZ4X is a new EV based on a special EV platform jointly developed by Toyota and Subaru, and Sumitomo Riko aims to use its products in the bZ4X, which is scheduled to go on sale sequentially around the world, to expand the use of its products to other models that use the platform.

    Three product groups were selected for this project: anti-vibration rubber, hoses, and sound insulation products. The eAxle mount contributes to improved cabin comfort and the highly responsive driving performance unique to EVs. The eAxle mount is designed to protect the high-voltage components in the eAxle in the event of a collision, and aluminum is used extensively for the metal fittings to reduce the weight of the mount.

    For the hoses, “”cooling piping for electrical systems”” was adopted, as EVs are expected to extend their cruising range, and thermal management is essential to minimize power consumption, energy loss, and battery degradation. Various devices that generate heat are effectively cooled by fluid (cooling water) in the piping to keep them at the appropriate temperature, thereby increasing the efficiency of the entire system.

    In the area of noise control products, the new eAxle-compatible eAxle Cover has been adopted. eAxle Cover is set on the bottom of the rear-side eAxle and is effective in vibration and noise control in a wide range of bands from low to high frequencies. It contributes to improved comfort in the cabin, especially for rear seat passengers.”

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    Citroen C5 Aircross SUV PHV, EV mode is 55km … Improved new model will be released in Europe in June

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Citroen C5 Aircross SUV PHV with EV mode of 55km…New improved model to be launched in Europe in June
    225hp power for the entire PHV system

    Suspension designed for “”magic carpet”” ride comfort

    20 advanced driver assistance systems

    Tuesday, June 14, 2022, 14:30
    Citroën C5 Aircross SUV, the new and improved PHV

    Citroen announced on June 7 that the Citroen C5 Aircross SUV plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHV) will be launched in the European market in June. The base price in France is 40,950 euros (approximately 5.77 million yen), with the PHV accounting for 41% of the orders.

    ◆225hp power of the entire PHV system
    The PHV powertrain consists of a direct-injection 1.6-liter inline 4-cylinder gasoline turbo engine that produces a maximum output of 180hp. The motor, which is laid out between the engine and the 8-speed AT, produces a maximum output of 110hp and a maximum torque of 32.6kgm, resulting in a total system power of 225hp. The battery is a lithium-ion with a storage capacity of 13.2 kWh, and is mounted under the rear seat floor.

    The EV mode cruising range is set at a maximum of 55 km, with a maximum speed of 135 km/h. The battery can be recharged at a household outlet. The battery can be recharged in approximately 7 hours at a household power outlet (3.7 kW output). A 7.4 kW charger can be used to recharge the battery in approximately two hours.

    When the car is running in EV mode, the blue lamps under the rear-view mirror light up. This blue light is visible from the outside and identifies the vehicle as running in EV mode. While driving in EV mode, a sound generator is activated at speeds below 30 km/h to alert pedestrians and cyclists of the vehicle’s approach.

    ◆Suspension designed for “”magic carpet”” ride comfort
    Citroen is known for its hydraulic hydro suspension. The improved new model adopts the “”progressive hydraulic cushion””. In developing this system, 20 patents were applied for. According to Citroën, the company is pursuing a “”magic carpet”” ride that is both smooth and comfortable.

    The progressive hydraulic cushion is a purely mechanical system with a secondary damper added to the regular damper structure. The secondary damper cylinder is located inside the damper cylinder and has multiple ports on the side. In the secondary cylinder, there is a secondary piston that matches the inside diameter of the cylinder, and as the stroke progresses, the secondary piston enters the cylinder and acts as a hydraulic stop in this position-sensitive damper.

    This allows for a softer ride with less damping force in situations where the suspension moves small and fine, or where the suspension stroke speed is low. In situations where the suspension moves significantly, the damping force generated by the secondary piston and cylinder absorbs the impact.

    ◆20 advanced driving assist systems
    Twenty of the latest advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) for automatic driving are available. These include road sign recognition, active safety brakes, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go function. Of these, the adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go function detects a vehicle ahead and automatically maintains a safe distance until the vehicle comes to a stop.

    Active lane keeping assist recognizes lane markings on the road. If the system detects a lane change without blinkers, it alerts the driver. If a vehicle is in the driver’s blind spot, the system warns the driver by flashing the lights on the door mirrors. When the Lane Departure Warning System is activated, force is applied to the steering wheel to avoid a collision.

    Collision Risk Alert warns the driver of a potential collision with a vehicle in front at speeds of 30 km/h or more. Coffee Break Alert prompts the driver to take a break after two hours of driving at speeds above 70 km/h.

    Highway Driver Assist combines adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go and active lane departure warning systems to provide level 2 partially automated driving under certain driving conditions. Intelligent Beam Headlight assists safe driving at night by automatically switching between high and low beam settings.

    “

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    Toyota “Yaris Cross” sports muffler “High Power Spec L II” released HKS .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “HKS releases “”High Power Spec L II”” sports muffler for Toyota’s Yaris Cross

    Muffler for “”Yaris Cross”” Achieves Reduction of Exhaust Resistance and 30% Weight Reduction Compared to Stock
    　Automotive aftermarket parts manufacturer HKS (HKS) released the “”High Power Spec L II”” sports muffler compatible with the Toyota “”Yaris Cross”” hybrid model on Tuesday, June 14, 2022.

    A closer look at the “”High Power Spec L II”” mounted on the Yaris Cross!

    High Power Spec L II”” mounted on “”Yaris Cross

    The “”High Power Spec L II”” uses thin-walled stainless steel materials for the pipes and silencers, making it approximately 30% lighter than the factory muffler, and the straight structure is said to have achieved a significant reduction in exhaust resistance.

    　The muffler also has a straight structure that significantly reduces exhaust resistance.

    　The price is 88,000 yen (tax included). The product is not compatible with gasoline models, cannot be installed in 4WD models, and has not been tested for compatibility with vehicles equipped with Modellista’s customized rear spats.

    Kuruma News Editorial Department”

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    “Corolla Cross not yet in Japan !” Black new face! New Corolla Limited car released in Thailand .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Corolla Cross, not yet in Japan! New face in black! New Carollo Cross Limited Edition on Sale in Thailand

    Dignified black grille! Special Edition Black 2-Tone Model is Launched!
    　On June 1, 2022, Toyota’s Thai subsidiary announced the 60th anniversary special edition of the Corolla Cross, a locally produced compact SUV, to commemorate the 60th anniversary of its entry into Thailand.
    　
    　The model is dressed up with black exterior decorations and a special interior.

    “”Different face!”” Photos of the new Corolla Cross Thai Toyota 60th Anniversary Commemorative Model

    The face is different from Japan’s!”” New Toyota Corolla Cross compact SUV, Thailand’s 60th Anniversary Commemorative Model [Thai specs].

    　The special edition of the new Corolla Cross (Thai spec) has been given special interior and exterior decorations.

    　The exterior features a two-tone color with a black roof. The glossy black grille is decorated with chrome plating.

    　Black decoration has also been added to the side mirrors and tailgate, and gray 18-inch alloy wheels have been newly adopted.

    　In addition, silver LED projector fog lamps and 60th anniversary emblems are mounted on the sides.

    　The interior is also specially designed with red stitching on the seats and upholstery, and the 60th anniversary emblem is engraved on the seat headrests.

    　In addition, a special key for the 60th anniversary car and an Apple AirTag with a key chain are also available.

    　The front mask design differs greatly from the Japanese version of the Corolla Cross, and there are many special interior and exterior decorations that make this car a must-see.

    　The selling price of the new Toyota Corolla Cross 60th Anniversary Special Edition in Thailand is 1,224,000 baht (about 4,704,000 Japanese yen).”

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    Can you sleep with Toyota “Comfortable SUV”? “Yaris Cross Van-dwelling specification” for “single bedroom”! What was your impression of actually sleeping?

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Can you sleep in Toyota’s “”Comfortable SUV””? The “”Yaris Cross Car Overnight Specs”” for a “”one-person bedroom!”” What do you think of the actual sleeping experience?

    Now a Standard? How comfortable is the “”Yaris Cross,”” an SUV that stays overnight in a car?
    　With the recent rise in popularity of outdoor activities, more and more people are enjoying camping and overnight stays in their cars.
    　
    　In particular, many people are familiar with overnight stays in a car, which can be enjoyed in relatively unlimited locations with a minimum amount of camping equipment.
    　
    　In this context, can the Toyota “”Yaris Cross”” provide a comfortable overnight stay in a car?

    With just a few modifications, the Yaris Cross can be made into a car with overnight stay specifications! See the actual Yaris Cross in photos!

    Stay overnight in Toyota’s compact SUV “”Yaris Cross””! How to spend a comfortable night in a car? What’s it like to actually stay overnight in a car? (Images courtesy of Yaris Cross.)

    　The Yaris Cross is classified as a “”compact SUV”” with overall length 4180 mm x width 1765 mm x height 1590 mm.

    　Its compact body makes it easy to maneuver, and even those who are not very good at driving large vehicles can drive it with ease.

    　The cargo space is 820 mm (cargo space length) x 1400 mm (cargo space width) x 732 mm (cargo space height) (when the deck board is in the upper position) for five passengers, and the cargo space capacity is 390 liters.

    　Furthermore, by folding down the rear seats, the cargo capacity expands to 1102 liters. In addition to providing enough space for two bicycles, the upper deck board provides a flat floor surface on which people can lie down.

    　The cargo area is also equipped with a “”flex belt”” that can be used to secure larger items such as cooler boxes and containers to prevent them from moving while the vehicle is in motion, making it safe even on roads with curves or poor road conditions.

    　How did users who actually stayed overnight in Yaris Cross feel about the comfort of the vehicle?

    　Yarikronist (@pUsV7LqJIw0TFHL), who enjoyed a two-day and one-night stay in a car during Golden Week in 2022, said the following.

    This time I traveled alone to neighboring prefectures. The weather was good, and I had always wanted to stay overnight in a car, so I decided to take on the challenge.

    　To stay overnight in the car, I bought a sunshade (all around), a folding table to fill in the gaps, a mattress, a lantern, etc. I was alone so I decided to stay flat and stretch my legs.

    　Since I was alone this time, I was able to stay in the car flat and have enough space to stretch out my legs, which made for a comfortable overnight stay. I am satisfied.””

    　In the case of Yarychronist, the rear seats were folded down to make the floor flat, and a mattress was placed on the floor to create a bed space.

    　In addition, since there was a gap between the rear seats, he placed a table that matched the height of the floor in that area to fill in the gap.

    　On the other hand, the YARIKRONIST also said, “”Considering the size of the car, I felt that it would be a bit difficult for more than two people to relax in the car,”” and those who wish to stay overnight in a car with more than one person should consider this option.

    The Yaris Cross is a trendy mini-van that is available in a wide range of sizes.

    　Compared to trendy minivans and minivans, the Yaris Cross is not as roomy.

    　However, it is possible to stay overnight in a car comfortably enough if you put some ingenuity into it, such as making effective use of the space by filling in the gaps as Mr. Yarikuronist did.

    　Improving comfort through ingenuity and DIY is one of the most enjoyable aspects of staying in a car.”

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    Honda’s new SUV “CR-V” has been completely redesigned to emphasize “clean face” !Compare the new face announced in the United States with the current model .

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Honda’s new CR-V SUV has been completely redesigned to emphasize its “”clean face””! Comparison of the new face with the current model announced in the U.S.

    New CR-V Evolves into a Sporty, Cleaner Design
    　On May 24, 2022 (local time), Honda’s U.S. subsidiary unveiled for the first time in the world part of the exterior design of the new sixth-generation CR-V, which is scheduled for official unveiling this summer.
    　
    　How has it evolved from the current 5th generation CR-V? We compared the new and old CR-Vs.

    “”New image!”” Comparing old and new Honda CR-V photos

    (Left) Honda CR-V (5th generation, current model) / (Right) New CR-V (6th generation, 2023 model) [both North American specifications].

    　These images show the front of the new CR-V, centering on the headlights, and the rear, centering on the tail lamps.

    　The body side shape, front and rear overall design, and interior and instrument panel were not disclosed.

    　With such limited information, let’s compare the new and old CR-Vs.

    　First of all, the more distinctive feature of the front is the new model’s larger hexagonal grille.

    　The inside of the opening is also decorated with a honeycomb structure (hexagonal beehive structure).

    　In addition, the grille is black without chrome decorations in the disclosed specifications, which is a feature that strengthens the powerful and tough impression typical of SUVs.

    　The current CR-V also has a hexagonal grille, but the upper part is covered by a continuous bar shape from the headlights, dividing the grille into two sections. The addition of chrome decorations gives the grille a rather cumbersome appearance.

    　Comparing the new and old CR-Vs again, the new model has a cleaner overall image.

    * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

    　How about the back view?

    　The common feature of both the new and old models is the L-shaped rear combination lamps that run horizontally and vertically.

    　This is derived from the fact that since the first-generation CR-V introduced in 1995, successive generations of CR-Vs have used vertical rear combination lamps.

    　Furthermore, from the current model (5th generation), which was introduced in 2016 (Japanese version will be introduced in 2018), the vertical shape was arranged in an L-shape while retaining the vertical shape, and it is evident that the new 6th generation CR-V has also inherited it.

    　Also, similarly to the front, the specifications of the new CR-V unveiled this time are almost completely devoid of the chrome decorations in the center and bumper areas that are present on the current model, giving it a sportier look.

    　Comparing the tailgate, the current model looks a little high-backed due to the peak above the license plate number, while the new model’s center of gravity is lowered by lowering the apex of the shape, giving it a clean and uncluttered appearance.

    　According to Honda’s U.S. subsidiary, the new CR-V will be officially unveiled in North America in the summer of 2022.

    　We can’t wait to see the overall design of the new CR-V.”

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    Citroen C5 Air Cloth, bold change in facial expression … Improved new model to be released in Europe in June

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Citroen C5 Aircross Gets a Bold New Look…Improved New Model to Go on Sale in Europe in June
    New design language introduced for the front

    New generation “”Advanced Comfort Seats
    e-Toggle”” switch replaces conventional shift lever

    Citroen announced on June 7 that it will launch the upgraded Citroen C5 Aircross SUV in the European market in June. The base price in the home country of France is announced to be 27,450 Euros (about 3.87 million yen).

    ◆New design language in the front
    The Citroen C5 Aircross SUV, upgraded (European specifications)
    A new design language was introduced to the front. Newly designed headlights, grille and bumper replace the respective curves with more structured lines. The transformation of the front end aims to give the vehicle a more vertical, modern and distinguished look and to make it easier for the driver to recognize the front left and right sides of the vehicle.

    Underfoot, the vehicle is equipped with newly designed 18-inch diamond-cut aluminum wheels. At the rear, the taillights are changed to a three-dimensional design. Body dimensions are 4500 mm in length, 1840 mm in width, 1670 mm in height, and 2730 mm in wheelbase, with a minimum ground clearance of 230 mm.

    A wide range of customization options are available. Four new color packs aim to assert character and elegance. bumps in Gloss Black, Dark Chrome, Bronze, and Energetic Blue. A two-tone black roof and black roof bar with a shine finish are also available.

    ◆Advanced Comfort Seats, a new generation

    Following the new C4 and C5X, a new generation of “”Advanced Comfort Seats”” has been adopted. Special foam is placed on the back of the seat fabric to improve the feeling of contact between the body and the seat. The volume of the foam behind the fabric is 15 mm to provide soft cushioning, and the seat absorbs the slight tremors of the vehicle body that can lead to fatigue.

    The Advanced Comfort seat is one of the results of Citroen’s “”Advanced Comfort”” program. In order to create a seat that softly and gently wraps the body while providing reliable support, the polyurethane foam used for the seat cushion material was researched and a proprietary high-density foam with a higher density than the industry average was adopted.

    Another feature is that the rear seat has three independent seats. This concept was introduced to ensure that each occupant enjoys the same superior comfort level. The trunk capacity ranges from 580 to 720 liters. When the rear seats are folded down, it expands to a maximum of 1,630 liters. According to Citroen, the trunk capacity is the largest in the segment.

    ◆””e-toggle”” switch replaces the conventional shift lever.

    In the center of the dashboard is a new 10-inch touchscreen that appears to float. This new larger screen, which can control air conditioning and other functions, improves ergonomics to prevent the driver from looking away from the road ahead. Air ducts are positioned below the screen and feature a new horizontal design; the 10-inch touchscreen also incorporates a navigation system.

    A customizable 12-inch digital display is located in front of the driver. It displays important information such as navigation maps and information on the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) in an easy-to-understand manner.

    A newly designed center console was also adopted. The large center console features an “”e-toggle”” switch in place of the conventional shift lever. A new driving mode switch incorporating a grip control function is also provided.

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

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    Imechen for a “new face” for 5 million yen! Exterior version upgrade kit for Nissan “GT-R NISMO”! Contributes to appearance and weight reduction.

    ByChathura Chanuka

    “Give Your Nissan GT-R NISMO a “”New Look”” for 5 Million Yen! Exterior Upgrade Kit for Nissan GT-R NISMO! Contributes to appearance & weight reduction

    　On June 10, 2022, Nissan Motorsports & Customizing Co. announced the release of the “”Exterior Upgrade Set”” for the Nissan GT-RNISMO (2022 model year) as a NISMO handled product.

    Completely renewed front end! Nissan “”GT-R NISMO”” with a 5 million yen makeover.
    Nissan “”GT-R NISMO”” Upgrade Kit Released

    　Announced this year is a set of genuine Nissan parts that upgrade the 2014-2018 models of the GT-R NISMO to the 2022 model’s exterior.

    　The lineup includes three types: the Front Bumper Facia & Hood Set (front bumper without sonar holes, for ’14 and ’15 models) includes the front bumper facia, front spoiler
    engine undercover, front bumper grille, bumper rainforce, etc.

    Hood Set (for ’17 and ’18 models)”” includes hood and air intakes. The “”Front Fender Set (for ’14-’18 models)”” includes front fenders and inner fenders.

    　The weight can be reduced by installing each set, depending on the model year.

    　The price (including consumption tax) is 3,300,000 yen for the front bumper fascia and hood set, 902,000 yen for the hood set, and 847,000 yen for the front fender set.”