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    Gorgeous and cool Nissan’s new X-TRAIL full-fledged off-road specification

    Tough as nails! The new Nissan SUV “X-TRAIL”, which is selling like hotcakes, wins the highest honor! e-POWER” is the reason for its popularity!

    Nissan X-TRAIL receives the highest honor as an SUV!
     On February 20, 2023, Nissan’s European subsidiary (“Nissan”) announced that its new SUV X-TRAIL has been selected for the Women’s World Car of the Year (WWCOTY) 2023 category award, presented in Paris, France.

    Gorgeous and cool! Nissan’s new “X-TRAIL” full-fledged off-road specification!

    Nissan’s new “X-TRAIL”.

     WWCOTY is an international award judged and awarded by 63 female automotive journalists, and will celebrate its 13th anniversary in 2023.

     The new X-TRAIL won in the “Best Large SUV” category, thus earning the right to compete for the overall WWCOTY award in the future.

     Since the first-generation X-TRAIL was launched in 2000, it has established a unique position as an SUV that puts “toughness” at the forefront, and has grown into a global model sold in more than 100 markets around the world. With cumulative sales exceeding 6.3 million units, the X-TRAIL has become a mainstay model that drives Nissan’s business.

     In Japan, the current model, the fourth-generation X-TRAIL, will be launched in July 2022, and all models will be equipped with the e-POWER series hybrid system. It is also equipped with many of Nissan’s latest technologies, such as the e-4ORCE electric 4WD system.

     In addition to the “toughness” inherited from previous generations, the 4th generation model has acquired a “quality” that appeals to a wider range of users.

     The X-TRAIL’s spacious interior, driving performance, and Nissan’s unique e-POWER electric powertrain were highly acclaimed, leading to its winning of this year’s WWCOTY award.

     Makoto Uchida, Nissan’s CEO, commented on the award.

    We are delighted that the new X-TRAIL has received the highest honor. The vehicle is an icon of Nissan’s SUV heritage of more than 20 years and one of Nissan’s most successful global models.

     It has also been built with the input of female users in mind throughout the entire design and development process, and we are delighted and proud to see it recognized in this way.”

     As the winner of the WWCOTY Best Large SUV category, the new Extrale will now move on to the final round of WWCOTY’s overall Best Car of the Year 2023 award.

     The Best Car of the Year 2023 will be announced on March 8, 2023, and all eyes will be on the new X-TRAIL to see if it can win further honors.

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    Unexpected Nissan “Hakosuka Truck” world premiere!

    “Nissan “”Hakosuka Truck”” Unveiled for the First Time in the World! The “”Sanitra”” with a powerful face is actually a “”LEAF”” in the U.S.

    Sema is on the way! World premiere of “”Hakoska Truck””-like Sanitra to be unveiled
     At the SEMA Show 2022, to be held November 1-4, 2022 in Las Vegas, USA, Nissan USA will unveil several custom vehicles.
     
     One of these vehicles will be a special “”Sunny Truck”” (hereinafter referred to as “”Sanitra””), which is rare in the world, and what features does it have?

    This…is a Hakosuka truck! See the actual racing-spec “”Sanitra,”” which looks so different!

    Is this a Hakosuka? But something different? It’s really a “”Sunny Truck,”” but it’s got a big secret!

     This Sanitra is a custom car built by Tommy Pike Customs (TPC) based in South Carolina, U.S.A., which installed the power unit of Nissan’s electric vehicle “”Leaf”” into a 1987 Sanitra.

     The front face of the car is fitted with a widebody kit of the Skyline GT-R (C10), commonly known as the “”Hakosuka,”” which is one of Nissan’s most famous cars.

     The body color is a custom “”46″” livery by Brock Racing Enterprises (BRE), a collaboration between Tommy Pike and Peter Brock.

     At the heart of the vehicle is an electric motor and 40 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which delivers approximately twice the power and more than three times the torque of the gasoline engine used in the Sanitra. This custom car can truly be called a Sanitra EV.

     In addition, in order to accommodate these components, a Nissan “”240SX (180SX North American spec)”” suspension (including front coilovers, disc brakes, and lower control arms) and rear suspension and springs for a LEAF are installed in the front.

     Inside, the interior has been tweaked down to the smallest detail, with handmade interior panels and a custom user interface display designed by Clemson University.

     Tommy Pike had this to say about the new Sanitra EV: “”I’m very excited about the new Sunny EV.

    We bought the Sunny because we thought it was a great piece of Nissan history and heritage, especially being right-hand drive.

     Converting the Sunny to an electric car and doing the unexpected by giving it the Brock Racing Enterprises livery felt like the perfect way to honor Nissan’s heritage and modern innovation.

    * * *

     Nissan’s booth at the SEMA Show 2022 will feature six concept cars and the new Z racing car for the first time. In addition, Nissan will showcase models that symbolize Nissan’s past and present, including street/track performance and off-road-focused concept cars.”

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    Toyota Unleashes the Jaw-Dropping Hilux Shakotan A Turbocharged Thrill with 0 Compromises

    In a dazzling display of automotive innovation, Toyota’s Thai subsidiary showcased the striking “Hilux Shakotan Specification” at the recently concluded 40th Thailand Motor Expo 2023. The event, held from November 29th to December 11th, featured an array of Toyota vehicles, with a special focus on the iconic Hilux Revo lineup.

    The Hilux, a medium-sized pickup truck with a rich history dating back to 1968, has garnered global acclaim for its practicality, robust design featuring a ladder frame chassis, and a formidable four-wheel-drive system. The eighth generation, introduced in 2015, continues to be a symbol of reliability and off-road capability, sold in 180 countries worldwide. Notably, it made a triumphant return to the Japanese market after a hiatus of approximately 13 years, hitting the sales floor in 2017.

    In the Thai market, the Hilux holds a significant position within the “IMV (Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle)” product group, commanding a substantial market share. Available in various body types, including 2-door, 4-door, and double-door 4-door (smart cab), the Hilux caters to both commercial and advanced passenger needs, offering both front-wheel-drive (FF) and four-wheel-drive (4WD) systems.

    At this year’s Thailand Expo, Toyota’s booth featured not only the standard 4-door version of the Hilux Revo but also showcased custom models such as the rugged Rocco and the Z edition. Notably, the spotlight was on the highly customized “Hilux Shakotan Specification,” derived from the Z edition and boasting a lowered profile. The front tires sport a distinctive V-shape, accentuating the vehicle’s lowered stance, and the front grille area is enhanced with a sizable gunmetal grille bezel reminiscent of a kangaroo bar.

    Embracing a sporty aesthetic, the Shakotan Specification features a “GR” badge on the front, a carbon garnish at the tip of the bonnet, and striking shark-like teeth decals along the body’s sides. The transformation from a sturdy pickup to an impressive sports car is further evident with smaller door mirrors, deep black wheels, and eye-catching decals on the doors and sides of the cargo bed.

    While details about powertrain and interior modifications remain undisclosed, the allure of the Hilux Shakotan Specification lies in its unique design and aesthetic enhancements.

    In a surprising announcement, Toyota revealed the upcoming release of a new model within the Hilux series—the Hilux Champ. Geared towards meeting Thailand’s domestic needs, the Hilux Champ boasts an inexpensive and straightforward structure, positioning itself as a potential new “people’s car.” The release on November 27th created anticipation surrounding its reception in the market.

    By presenting the diverse Hilux series, Toyota aims to reaffirm its connection with the Thai people, showcasing a range of vehicles that cater to various preferences and needs. The success of the Hilux lineup, coupled with the introduction of the Hilux Champ, underscores Toyota’s commitment to providing innovative and reliable vehicles that resonate with a broad audience.

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    Mitsubishi Motors plans to introduce the latest technology installed in the Outlander … Human and car technology 2022 .

    “Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Technology to be Introduced at Automotive Engineering Exposition 2022May 23, 2022 4:30 PM

    Mitsubishi Outlander Online Exhibition Image
    Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) will be exhibiting at the Automotive Engineering Exposition 2022 to be held at Pacifico Yokohama from May 25 to 27, introducing new technologies incorporated in the Outlander.

    In addition to the real exhibition, an online exhibition, “”Automotive Engineering Exposition 2022 ONLINE STAGE 1,”” will be held until May 31. The theme of the exhibition is “”Paving the Way to Carbon Neutrality. The theme of the exhibition is “”The Road to Carbon Neutrality,”” and it will be held under the theme of hybrids.

    Mitsubishi Motors introduced the Outlander’s unique technologies, including the eco-friendly Plug-in Hybrid EV (PHEV) system, the “”S-AWC”” integrated vehicle dynamics control system that provides safe, reliable and enjoyable driving, a new platform, the first PHEV from Mitsubishi Motors with three rows of seating for seven people, and advanced safety equipment. Mitsubishi Motors will also introduce its new platform, the first three-row, seven-passenger PHEV packaging, and advanced safety equipment.

    Mitsubishi Motors’ exhibits will cover five categories: “”New Generation PHEV System,”” “”Integrated Vehicle Dynamics Control System S-AWC,”” “”New Platform,”” “”Packaging,”” and “”Advanced Safety Equipment. At the real exhibition booths, visitors will be able to see actual vehicles and listen to easy-to-understand explanations centered on technical posters and online explainers. At the online exhibition, in addition to explanatory videos of each technology, developers will deliver explanatory videos in which they talk about their thoughts through driving images and data. In addition, a digital PHEV system that can be freely rotated, enlarged, and reduced using 3D data of the PHEV system will be exhibited.

    New Generation PHEV System
    PHEV components have been renewed to extend the EV cruising range from the previous model and improve EV-like acceleration. The output of the front and rear motors and drive battery has been increased by approximately 40% to expand the EV driving range. The front motor and generator have been optimized in terms of magnet layout and windings, and the latest technology has been introduced, including an oil cooling system with high cooling efficiency. The maximum output was significantly increased from 60kW to 85kW, and the maximum torque from 137Nm to 255Nm.

    The power drive unit that controls the front motor has a new voltage boosting function that increases the voltage supplied to the front motor, thereby increasing its driving power. The rear motor has a square cross-section coil on the stator side to increase the winding density, and the maximum output has been increased from 70kW to 100kW. The drive battery has been increased to a total capacity of 20kWh, and the equivalent EV driving range (equivalent EV range) is 87km (WLTC mode).

    In the transaxle, the strength and durability of the shaft and pinion of the differential gear have been improved in line with the higher output of the motor and engine. In addition, dedicated gears were installed in the power generation path to the generator and in the drive path to the axle to optimize the gear ratio, thereby improving both power generation efficiency and fuel economy. The gasoline tank capacity has also been increased, greatly extending the total cruising range for a combination of EV and hybrid driving.

    Integrated Vehicle Dynamics Control System “”S-AWC
    The increased motor output expands the control range of front/rear driving force distribution, resulting in greatly improved driving performance in various weather conditions and on various road surfaces. A new brake AYC (Active Yaw Control) function has also been added to the rear wheel side. This enables a smaller braking force per wheel per tire, making it possible for AYC to be more effective on slippery road surfaces. Seven drive modes are available to select vehicle dynamics optimized for various road conditions and driving styles. The mode can be selected using a dial-type mode selector on the floor console.

    Newly developed platform
    The newly developed platform and the highly rigid RISE collision safety reinforced body realize a high level of safety and handling stability. Front body rigidity and torsional rigidity have been significantly increased, contributing greatly to improved handling stability. MMC’s first hot-stamped ultra-high tensile strength steel sheet (1470 MPa), which exceeds the strength of conventional steel sheet, is used around the cabin to create a highly resistant cabin structure with minimal deformation.

    Packaging that realizes three-row, seven-passenger seating for the first time among Mitsubishi Motors’ PHEVs.
    By integrating the rear motor and control unit, the floor space required for a third seat is secured, enabling a seven-seat layout. At the same time, the unit is mounted outside the cabin to shut out high-frequency noise and achieve a high level of quietness.

    Advanced safety equipment
    MI-PILOT (with Navi Link function), an advanced highway same-lane driving support function, is installed. This control, which integrates the radar cruise control system [ACC] and lane keeping assist function [LKA], supports driving by keeping the distance between vehicles and the center of the lane. In addition, the system recognizes speed signs and automatically switches speed settings. It also uses map information provided by the Navi Link function to automatically adjust the vehicle speed to an appropriate level at highway curves and junctions. Even in traffic jams, the system automatically starts up within about 30 seconds after stopping, thereby reducing fatigue during long-distance driving on expressways and in traffic jams. By coordinating information obtained from various sensors, the accuracy of driving support has been improved and the support functions expanded.”

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    Nissan has announced the release of their new compact sedan the Almera

    Nissan has announced the release of their new compact sedan, the Almera, which has received praise for its sporty design and powerful grill. The Almera has previously been sold under different names in Japan, such as the Pulsar and the Bluebird Sylphy, but this model is aimed at the Asian market. The car features a V-motion grill and a simple yet sporty interior design. It also comes with an Ignite Package, which includes exclusive bumpers, side skirts, and a dual exhaust system. The Almera is expected to be released in 2023.

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    Dynamic Transformation Toyota Prius 5 Ignites Controversy Among Previous Owners

    Toyota Prius is too sporty for previous owners! The new “”Prius”” is too sporty for previous owners! Thursday, December 15, 2022 10:10 What do you think of the new Prius?The Toyota “”Prius,”” renowned as the pioneer of hybrid cars since its birth in 1997, has been fully remodeled into its 5th generation. I’ve never seen a Prius like this! Customized versions with extreme flair are already on the market!

     The new Prius is longer, wider, and lower than the previous model, and has a new sporty appeal.On the other hand, the new Prius has been criticized by some for its change of character, as it aims for a premium line that emphasizes style rather than family use.In this issue, we asked owners of successive generations of the Prius about the new model. How do they view the change from pursuing practicality and fuel economy to a more stylish and sporty line?

     Mr. T, a man in his 50s who has been driving a third-generation Prius, said that while the stylish new direction of the new model is appealing, he is concerned that it will be even harder to drive. I’ve been driving a 30 Prius for quite a long time, but originally the front of the car has a steep drop, so it’s hard to get a sense of the vehicle in front of me.

     The new model is cooler and more attractive, but I am concerned about whether the A-pillar will be laid down further, making the driver’s seat feel more oppressive and the front of the car more distant.If my parents, who are in their 70s, are also driving, I am concerned about the design, which seems to have poor ease of getting in and out of the car and poor rearward visibility, and I worry that it will not be kind to the elderly.””

     The C segment, to which the Prius belongs, is exquisitely positioned between the compact car and the middle class. There are many previous owners who don’t want to drive a compact car, but don’t want to drive a car that is too big, so the bold change of course is controversial.

    I am sure that this is a proposal for a new sense of value. It is a matter of course to have good fuel economy, but we needed something more attractive, and I think the answer was ‘sportiness.It is definitely a good car if you actually drive it, but I think it would have been better if they had prioritized practicality a little more, including increasing the size of the car.It seems that many people are demanding practicality from the Prius. Especially for novice drivers and the elderly, ease of getting in and out of the car and visibility are very important. I wonder how users will evaluate this area after the car is actually sold.On the other hand, there are those who welcome this stylish line.

     Mr. E, a man in his 30s who currently drives a compact car, used to own a third-generation Prius, and he says he is quite impressed with the new fifth-generation Prius, partly because he shunned the “”overly aggressive design”” of the fourth-generation Prius.The fourth-generation Prius, especially the previous model before the minor changes in 2018, was not very perfect, to be honest,”” he said. In that respect, the new model has a novel impression in its face, but it was immune to the new “”Crown”” and I think the rear style is like a hatchback, and yet it also gives the impression of a more futuristic look.

     Moreover, thanks to its low and wide profile, it looks as stylish as an imported car, and I would like to drive it.I’m also interested in the sharp acceleration that only PHEVs can provide, and I’d like to give it a try if I get the chance to test drive one. Mr. A’s opinion seems to indicate that a car needs to have not only performance but also a cohesive overall design.

    Toyota’s new “”Prius”” is too sporty for previous owners to resist! Some are concerned that the visibility will be poor…What are the features of the new Prius?What catches the eye in the new Prius is its different and elongated proportions: it inherits the 5-door hatchback style from the second generation, but clearly emphasizes a lower profile. Furthermore, the front face has been redesigned with a “”hammerhead”” motif, which is also used on the new Crown, and is typical of the latest Toyota models.At 4600 mm long x 1780 mm wide x 1430 mm wide, the new Prius is not only slightly longer and slightly wider than the previous model, but also 40 mm lower.

     At a time when SUVs are the mainstay of the market, with many models exceeding 1600 mm in overall height, the new Prius gives the impression of a much lower stance, emphasizing its sporty nature.Toyota’s new Prius Another notable feature of the new Prius is its revamped powertrain: in addition to the 1.8-liter hybrid, a 2-liter hybrid is available. In addition, a 2-liter plug-in hybrid (PHEV) will be offered.Maximum output is 140 hp for the 1.8-liter hybrid, 193 hp for the 2-liter hybrid, and 223 hp for the 2-liter PHEV, with an agile 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 6.7 seconds. In fact, as of December 2022, WLTC fuel economy figures have not been released, but horsepower and acceleration are clear, as if to emphasize the sportiness of the car.

     The 1.8-liter hybrid emphasizes economy, the PHEV uses a large amount of electric energy to drive the motor for sharp acceleration, and the 2-liter hybrid aims to combine the best of both worlds, offering the performance that users demand in a pine, bamboo, and plum arrangement, as one might expect from Toyota.The new Prius has taken the sporty route, but even at the expense of some practicality, it seems to be aiming for a premium line like the sports 4-door coupe, which has become rare nowadays.

     There are several possible reasons for this, including the fact that Toyota has a large lineup of hybrid vehicles in addition to the Prius, and that the role of the world’s first mass-produced hybrid vehicle has been fulfilled, and that a new appeal was needed to maintain a presence in the C-segment class, where there are many strong players. The new Crown is in the same vein as the new Crown.

     This seems to be the same trend with the new Crown, and Toyota’s decision to add crossovers and SUVs to keep the Crown name alive was a bold change to keep the Prius alive.It also made it possible to appeal that hybrid vehicles can offer fun features other than fuel economy, and it may be that a suitable style was necessary to push sportiness to the forefront.

     There is an impression that the new Prius is designed to appeal to new users rather than existing users.There are various opinions on the change to a sporty line, but it seems certain that the stylish new Prius will still “”sell”” well.

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