| Make
|
Mazda |
| Model |
RX-Z |
| Concept
year |
2009 |
| Production
year |
- |
| Engine |
diesel
V6 + electric hybrid |
|
The hybrid drivetrain consists of a
3.0 litre V6 and two electric motors |
 |
|
The Mazda RX-Z concept is a proposal for a 2+2 sports
coupe to replace the aging Mazda RX-8. The design was
conceived by Andrus Ciprian, a design student from Romania
whose previous work includes the Dacia
MC concept. Like the MC the RX-Z concept was created
using the 3d modeling program 3D Studio Max, and rendered
with the help of Mental Ray.
The RX-Z was developed as Ciprian puts it; "as
a link between fossil fuel cars and more ecological ones."
To achieve this the proposed drivetrain for the concept
includes a 3.0 litre V6 diesel engine up front - which
replaces the notoriously thirsty rotary engine from the
RX-8. And a pair of electric motors at the rear. Under
normal conditions the RX-Z would be driven solely by the
diesel engine. But at low speeds around town the electric
drive can be used on its own for emission free motoring.
At higher speeds the electric motors work in conjunction
with the V6 engine to provide a boost function. A start/stop
technology which is integrated into the engine further
increases fuel efficiency.
Like the RX-8 the RX-Z concept is equipped with four doors.
The rear doors are half-sized and hinged at the rear.
This helps to disguise them into the bodywork and reduce
their impact on the flowing lines of the car.
One of the more unusual features of the Mazda RX-Z concept
is the rear light panel. In the middle is a display screen
which can light up with any text written by the driver.
Presumably you can only 'write' on the back of your car
when stopped, otherwise this would be one surefire way
of either getting in a crash or getting in trouble!
Similar and related vehicles:
Dacia MC
|
|
