The Mercedes F 300 Life-Jet was first shown back in 1997
at the 57th Frankfurt International Motor Show. The Life-Jet
incorporates an active tilt control system allowing the
front wheels and body of the tandem two-seater to lean
into corners. This means the F 300 Life-Jet can attain
cornering speeds similar to those of a motorbike.
The active tilt control also increases the overall ride
comfort for the passengers by moving the cornering forces
to a central, vertical axis, rather than a sideways force.
As well as looking like great fun.
A complicated electronic system monitors the F 300 Life-Jet's
speed, acceleration, cornering angle and yaw. From this
information commands are given to a hydraulic cylinder
mounted on the front axle which forces one of the two
spring loaded struts outwards to produce the desired degree
of tilt. The maximum lean angle is 30 degrees.
The F 300 Life-Jet's compact engine and transmission,
taken from the Mercedes A-Class, are located between the
interior compartment and the rear wheel.
This
powerplant is capable of accelerating the F 300 Life-Jet
to 60 mph in just 7.7 seconds, continuing onto a maximum
speed of 130mph.
Unfortunately the F 300 Life-Jet remains a concept,
however the wheel-tilt technology from the concept found
its way into another Mercedes concept the Mercedes
F-400 Carving.
Similar and related vehicles:
- Grinnall
Scorpion III
- Brinks Dynamics Carver
|
