The Tokyo Motor Show showcased many of the most exciting concept cars of 2011. Many companies had efficiency in mind with their eco-friendly models while others pushed their concepts to the limits of creativity. Here we will explore a few of the more intriguing and eccentric designs of 2011.
Volkswagen
For those of us who like to rock and roll, Volkswagen revealed their newest Beetle. They have made friends with Fender to bring a sound system to this car that is ready for the main stage. The system includes a 400W 10-channel amplifier, a subwoofer, and two sets of tweeters, one set in the front and one in the back.
Honda
This year Honda debuted this an ultra tiny electric car they call their “micro commuter”. This eco-friendly automobile is only 98.4 inches long, 49.2 wide, and 56.3 tall and brings a video game feel to your morning drive. Two joysticks control the car. Its top speed is only 37 mph and carries three people. Although this may seem like a drawback, for anyone navigating a crowded city, its tiny size is perfect.
Daihatsu
This design may resemble a bus; it is actually the FC Sho Case fuel cell car. Daihatsu’s revolutionary design contains no rare earth metals, which makes it more affordable to produce then other fuel cells. The LCD screen on the exterior play relaxing wave patterns, but when getting into the car, passengers must step high over these to get in, making it hard for elderly people or those with injuries.
Toyota and Yamaha
We see more and more scooters on the road these days as people look for easy and fuel-efficient ways to get around town. Toyota and Yamaha partnered up to take this a step further with an electric tricycle called the EC-Miu. It has Wi-Fi capabilities and can be recharged at charging stations used by other electric vehicles.
This year’s concepts at the Tokyo Motor Show were very green focused. Every year the designs unveiled at the show seem to get more inventive. I can’t wait to see what they bring us next year.
