Monday, May 11, 2009
Daihatsu UFE-III concept car, Image, Photo n pictures. The Daihatsu UFE-III shown at the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show was the 3rd model of Daihatsu's 'Ultra Fuel Economy' concepts, the original was shown at the 2001 Tokyo show.The UFE-III is powered by a diminutive 660 cc Atkinson 3 cylinder engine and two electric motors. Part of the UFE-III's impressive fuel economy can be traced to the aerodynamic bodywork. The flowing lines give the UFE-III a 0.168 Cd figure. Add this to a 440 kg overall weight and it is a recipe for efficiency.The interior of the UFE III is set out in a 1+2 configuration, with two small seats crammed in behind the single central drivers seat. The UFE-III is controlled by steer-by-wire technology. UFE stands for "Ultra Fuel Economy," and this car delivers the name's promise. The UFE-III returns more than 170 miles per gallon thanks to a 0.168 coefficient of drag-the lowest in the world-and a hybrid powertrain comprising a three-cylinder direct-injection engine and two electric motors. Its clamshell-opening roof is pretty cool too. So this car is high technology.