Mazda Senku on show in tokya this month
Mazda Senku on show in tokya this month
Mazda Motor Corp. has developed a new type of hybrid car that runs by switching between an electric motor and a hydrogen-powered engine, and then automatically shifts to gasoline when it runs out of hydrogen.
Named after the Japanese word for pioneer, Mazda Senku is a four-seater coupe designed to be a sporty yet comfortable and luxurious car. Senku, with its massive “flying wing” doors that open to reveal a sumptuous 2+2 cabin, is an unadulterated show car. But insiders say the low sculptured shape does at the same time preview one possible future design direction for the RX-8.
Mazda’s showpiece is dripping with high tech. Power comes from a new direct-injection, 13B two-rotor engine with additional power from an electric motor. This Mazda-designed hybrid system is packaged so the Senku still can boast a perfect 50-50 weight distribution and low center of gravity.
On the roof are small solar panels to help charge the hybrid battery. The Senku has a seven-speed transmission, and it rolls on monster 22-inch Yokohama Advan tires.
The price of the vehicle is still undecided but will be less USD 8,760, Mazda said.