| Make
|
Michelin
Challenge Design |
| Model |
Hammerhead |
| Concept
year |
2009 |
| Production
year |
- |
| Engine |
Biofuel
V10 |
|
The concept features both a V10 and
electric motors |
 |
|
The Hammerhead concept which was designed by Andre Costa
(a graduate of the Fine Arts Faculty of Lisbon) was one
of the finalists in the 2009 Michelin Challenge Design.
For 2009 the brief was to create a vehicle which was "brave
and bold" and could be America's next iconic vehicle.
The basic idea for the Hammerhead concept was to develop
what could be the future American sports car, a car that
combines "brute force" with new technologies.
The Hammerhead has an unusual and innovative drivetrain
which features both a biofuel V10 engine and four electrical
in-wheel motors. The V10 provides raw power for drag racing
and performance driving, making it powerful - but somewhat
environment friendly. The engine can be used in a two
modes. One uses only four cylinders for cruising speed,
and the other uses all ten cylinders for maximum power
and performance.
The electric power can be used in urban areas and situations
where huge amounts of power are unnecessary. When the
internal combustion engine is used, it recharges the batteries
that power the electric motors. During times where extreme
performance is wanted a combination of the two front electric
motors and the rear-drive V10 can be used - giving the
car increased grip and better handling.
The Hammerhead concept features a number of interesting
ideas throughout the design including magnetic suspension
for a smoother ride and striking two-piece gull-wing doors.
The car is made of recycled and recyclable materials (for
example, the body panels are made in plastic, strengthened
by a layer of carbon
fibre). The wheels use a unique pad system: instead
of changing the whole tire, you can change only the pad
that is damaged, removing the need to travel with a spare
tire. The concept also features a special paint that glows
when agitated by a small electrical current, allowing
the user to custom "paint" the car with unique
details. |
|
