Daihatsu has brought three wacky concepts to the Tokyo motor show. The Daihatsu D-X, Pico and FC Shocase adopt the firm’s ‘big answer from small’ slogan and preview Daihatsu’s next-generation tech for small cars.
The Daihatsu D-X (‘d-cross) is a compact and chunky multi-purpose two-seater. Power comes courtesy of a two-pot, turbocharged unit, which Daihatsu says “strikes a balance between the joy of driving and fuel-efficiency”. According to Daihatsu's Tokyo press conference, the next-gen 'efficient and powerful' two-cylinder engine used in the concept will be rolled out across the Daihatsu range.
The D-X’s versatile resin-based body parts can be swapped to allow the concept to take on different body guises, such as roadster, coupé and hatchback.
Also featuring on Daihatsu’s Tokyo stand is the Pico. The electric two-seat tandem is described as representing a new category of vehicle, “positioned between light cars and motorised bicycles”.
Features of the Pico include scissor-style doors with integrated LED lighting, a flat floor to ease access and a radar-guided ‘driving assistance’ system.
The Pico is described as being able to combat the challenges of EV battery cost and range because it's only designed for small daily errands. The Pico can also adapt to be anything from a mobility scooter to a small urban delivery vehicle, Daihatsu said at the Tokyo show.
The FC Sho Case concept is a zero-emissions vehicle, which previews its next-gen fuel-cell technology and platform for small cars; the fuel-cell stack – stowed underneath the floor - eliminates the use of rare metals and secures a ‘free energy future,’ according to Daihatsu.
At 3395mm long and 1475mm wide, the Daihatsu FC Sho Case is 145mm shorter and 165mm slimmer than a Volkswagen Up.
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