Toyota has announced the introduction of the i-Road

Toyota has announced the introduction of the i-Road personal mobility concept to the “Ha:mo” urban transport system trials. The concept, which made its world debut at 2012 Geneva motor show, will be used alongside existing Toyota COMS personal mobility vehicles from early 2014.

“Ha:mo” is an urban transport system designed to combine all forms of public and private transport with the aim of improving traffic flow and minimising emissions. The system uses electric vehicle car sharing and traffic routing information to ensure the most appropriate form of transportation is used by travellers.

The introduction of Toyota’s i-Road concept is just one action in the expansion of the “Ha:mo” system:

1. Increase in size of electric vehicle fleet

Number of COMS electric vehicles increased from 10 to 100 in October. All COMS vehicles will be fitted with keyless operation.

Number of Yamaha PAS power-assisted bicycles increased from 10 to 100 in October.

2. Introduction of “Ha:mo” smartphone application

The new “Ha:mo” application will have a range of features including:

Suggestion of new route options based upon traffic flow and local vehicle station stocking levels

Reservation of vehicles

Access to local bus timetables

‘Push’ notifications of predicted traffic congestion and weekly traffic congestion forecasts that encourage the use of different roads and transportation methods

3. Increase in number of vehicle stations

Users will be able to rent and return vehicles at 17 new locations from October, an increase from the four currently in operation. These stations will be conveniently located near main train stations and major public facilities.

Toyota i-Road to join Japanese Urban Transport System

Toyota has announced the introduction of the i-Road personal mobility concept to the “Ha:mo” urban transport system trials. The concept, which made its world debut at 2012 Geneva motor show, will be used alongside existing Toyota COMS personal mobility vehicles from early 2014.

“Ha:mo” is an urban transport system designed to combine all forms of public and private transport with the aim of improving traffic flow and minimising emissions. The system uses electric vehicle car sharing and traffic routing information to ensure the most appropriate form of transportation is used by travellers.

4. Trials of Fee-based Sharing Service

From October 1, a fee system will be introduced to the commercial feasibility of the sharing service. Fees will start at 200 yen (around £1.30) for the first 10 minutes and 20 yen (around £0.13) per minute thereafter.

5. Increase in number of Ha:mo members

“Ha:mo” membership is projected to rise from 100 to 1,000 in October, improving the level of data being received from the trial. Trials of Fee-based Sharing Service

SOURCE:

Wheels Dealers

Worth ful car selection from the Japanese used car exporters - Wheels Dealers

Ever thought of changing your car and get in to the new trend. This will be the best time to do it. Resale values for the used car have been dropping and increasing year by year. Many of us think that our car will not be given to the worth but times are changing nowadays used car resale has hit another new dimension through online car selling portals. Now comparatively used cars having the market so as the new cars and well known demand for many branded vehicles, Each and every penny we earn must be really used in an efficient way. How to know the worth:

Do you have a great amount of confusion of which way you should follow to Buy the Cars . Wait first decide whether it’s a used one or new car. After that there are many estimation website s I don’t want to name them just google it you will find easily. They will determine the selling price of each and every vehicle whether you sell or buy. Checking the auto insurance before buying will ensure that everything going fine. Make sure that all the necessary documents are clearly available.

In case of the used cars they are splitting it up and grading it accordingly with condition of cars available. If the cars have all the necessary documents and condition is good it will have the better grade and will accordingly decrease or increase if minor repairs or documents missing. It will be better to check the rating of the car before you buys or sell. an added advantage of buying the used cars were it will be cost and coverage will be generally lower compared to new ones. If we select the correct portals we will end up in getting the best car.

Finding the Right Cars:

Before deciding the model make an analysis on the car model you actually looking for to buy. Styling, engine power, mileage, seating capacity, space etc. also decide it on which purpose you will use whether you will use it for mountain climbing, rough drive etc. Be little choice instead of going for a big search first fix the amount and then select two or three models which you will be easy to finalize. Comparison has to be done within those models based on brand and efficiency.

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Wheels Dealers

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado

Toyota has quietly introduced a handful of Modellista styling accessories for the Land Cruiser Prado in Japan.

Starting with the exterior, the model can be equipped with an aerodynamic body kit that includes front and rear bumper extensions. Customers can also order a sports exhaust system, power retractable side steps and 17- or 20-inch alloy wheels with a shadow silver or deep gunmetal finish.

Interior changes are limited but the company offers LED lights and a drink cooler.

The accessories will go on sale shortly and prices range from ¥19,950 for the drink cooler to ¥378,000 for the 20-inch alloy wheels with Yokohama tires.

Source: Wheels Dealers

The second generation of the Nissan Qashqai

The second generation of the Nissan Qashqai has made a comeback in a fresh batch of spy shots ahead of a rumored November reveal.

Looking more premium than the outgoing model, the all-new Qashqai will take several design cues from the Hi-Cross concept showcased back in 2012 during the Geneva Motor Show. Chances are the Qashqai+2 won't make it for the second-gen model as the role of a seven-seater has already been attributed to the 2014 X-Trail introduced earlier this month at IAA.

Front-wheel drive will be standard on the new Qashqai, but those willing to pay more will be able to opt for an all-wheel drive setup. The vehicle is expected to ride on the Common Module Family (CMF) co-developed with Nissan which underpins the aforementioned 2014 X-Trail. Engine lineup has not been revealed at this moment but it will reportedly include a 1.2-liter turbocharged motor outputting 113 bhp (84 kW) and a peak torque of 190 Nm (140 lb-ft). There should also be a 1.6-liter diesel, while in 2015 the Qashqai will receive a plug-in hybrid derivative.

The second-gen Nissan Qashqai is scheduled to reach dealerships early 2014 and should have just about the same prices as the outgoing model.

SOURCE:

Wheels Dealers 

The new 2014 Infiniti Q50

The new 2014 Infiniti Q50 was first thrust upon us in at the beginning of the year at the Detroit Auto Show before it continued its publicity tour of the world motor show circuit. But as we know, publicity never really ends.

The luxury vehicle devision of Nissan has continued its PR by giving the model a new look with thanks to top fashion designers, Zac Posen and Thom Browne. Each designer created their own version, both of which will be sold for $75,000 each with proceeds benefiting St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

The Thom Browne 2014 Infiniti Q50 benefits from additional chrome inserts on the exterior while the interior is upholstered with the designer's signature red, white and blue stripes and a sterling silver ring encircles the gear-shift handle.

Posen's creation meanwhile boasts a new exterior livery that evokes the back of a glamorous silk gown.

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Wheels Dealers

Daihatsu - Indonesia International Motor Show.

Daihatsu has introduced eight new concepts at the Indonesia International Motor Show.

First up, the UFC 2 is an evolution of the UFC concept that debuted at last year's show. Unfortunately, it's less attractive than its predecessor as it eschews the swoopy styling for a dash of Toyota blandness.

Regardless, Daihatsu says it has a seven-seat interior and "incorporates convenience that is indispensable in everyday life."

Likewise, the D-R Estate is a revised version of the D-R roadster that also debuted at last year's show. As the name suggests, it jettisons the open air cockpit for a fixed hardtop but at least it adopts a more powerful 660cc engine.



The CUV concept won't win any awards for its name but it has a funky design with rearrangeable rear seats and a split rear door that "opens upward and downward."

Moving on, the Ayla GT, X-track and Luxury concepts hint at future variants of the Ayla. The models are pretty self-explanatory as the GT is a sporty concept, the Luxury is an upscale concept and the X-track is a rugged concept with off-road inspired styling.

Lastly, the NC-Y and NC-Z concepts preview a potential model that could slot below the Ayla.

Source: Wheels Dealers

The BMW-Toyota sports car remains shrouded in mystery

 The BMW-Toyota sports car remains shrouded in mystery but a new report is indicating it could spawn the replacements for the BMW Z4 and 6-Series as well as the Toyota GT 86 / Scion FR-S.

According to Wheels Dealers, the two companies are developing a flexible platform that can underpin everything from a small two-seat roadster to a larger sports car. BMW could use the architecture to underpin the next-generation Z4 and 6-Series, while Toyota could use it for a new MR2 and Supra.

Executives from both brands have been coy on details but CAR says the model will have a front rear-mounted engine and incorporate carbon composite technology.

Everything sounds rather promising but sources are indicating there is growing friction between the companies. According to insiders, BMW elders weren't thrilled about the i sub-brand and now they worry that the Toyota partnership could further dilute the Ultimate Driving Machine mantra.

Source: Wheels Dealers

Honda has introduced the new Mobilio

Honda has introduced the new Mobilio concept at the Indonesia International Motor Show.

Designed to preview a new Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) for Asian markets, the Mobilio has a rather plain exterior with a single bar grille, sweptback headlights and a 'floating roof' that echoes the Civic Tourer. The concept also has an Odyssey-inspired "lightning-bolt" beltline and a seven seat interior.

Since the model was developed to handle local road and weather conditions, the MPV has a crossover-like ground clearance of 185mm (7.2 inches).

Performance specifications were not released, but Honda confirmed the model is powered by a 1.5-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder petrol engine.

In related news, Honda showed off the Brio Satya which has a 1.2L i-VTEC petrol engine. This enables the model to return more than 20 km/L (5L/100km / 47 mpg US / 56.4 mpg UK) which enables it to qualify for Indonesia's Low Cost Green Car (LCGC) program.

Source: Wheels Dealers 

The all-new Nissan X-Trail/Rogue has made its world debut today at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show.

It has lost some of the familiar rugged looks as these were replaced by a more premium styling with sculptured muscular lines, "boomerang" taillights and modern 19-inch alloys. Nissan mentions upper-spec models will get full LED headlights with daytime running lights once the car goes on sale in the first quarter of next year.

The interior cabin is a blend of chrome, metal and piano black finishes with a "theater-style" seating arrangement and the possibility of ordering two extra seats for a seven-seat layout. Lower-spec models come with a cloth fabric but more expensive versions feature full leather upholstery with contrasting stitching.

The 2014 X-Trail's rear doors open to almost 80 degrees which enables an easy access inside the cabin, and those sitting on the middle row seat now benefit from additional knee room thanks to the elongated wheelbase. The third row of seats can be folded forward to boost cargo capacity, whereas the middle row can recline and slide.

It has received the latest generation of Nissan's ALL MODE 4x4i system controllable by using a rotary switch installed on the center console. The driver gets to choose between 2WD, Auto mode or Lock which offers permanent four-wheel drive. The 2014 X-Trail also boasts Active Ride Control capable of monitoring the road up ahead to spot undulations and will modify the damping to compensate. Active Engine Brake is also fitted and can increase engine braking during cornering or when decelerating to a standstill.

Nissan fitted the new X-Trail/Rogue with Active Trace Control comprising an on-board sensor monitoring steering angle, speed, braking effort and throttle opening to brake the wheels individually as a method of reducing under-steer. Lastly, the off-roader will be offered with Uphill Start Support and Advance Hill Descent Control.

Details about the engine lineup will be disclosed closer to the car's market launch.

Source: Wheels Dealers

Subaru Car Dealers

Subaru has introduced an off-road inspired Outback in Australia.

Looking far more aggressive than the American and European variants, the Australian Outback has a "muscular" new appearance thanks to plastic body cladding, underbody protection and roof rails. The makeover also includes tinted headlights, a dark grey grille, mud flaps and dark grey alloy wheels.

According to Subaru Australia Managing Director, Nick Senior, "We've had a lot of customer feedback suggesting owners would like a slightly tougher-looking Outback with greater body protection, which is especially useful on rural roads where this wagon rates highly." He added, "These MY14 upgrades deliver on both fronts and will help maintain Outback's profile as one of the most versatile and capable wagons on Australian roads."

Subaru says the styling upgrades provide $2500 worth of "additional value" but pricing has only gone up by $500. This means the entry-level Outback 2.5i CVT now carries a base price of $38,990 AUD.

Source:

Wheels Dealers

The Honda CR-Z inspires

The Honda CR-Z inspires a lot of zzz's but that could soon be changing as a new report is indicating the next-generation model will be based on the Civic Type R.

Next-generation Honda CR-Z to be based on the Civic Type R - report

Details are limited but Wheels Dealers is reporting the company is developing an all-new CR-Z that will be underpinned by the Civic Type R's platform. The publication goes on to say that a prototype has already been built and it rides on a short-wheelbase version of the Type R's architecture.

While Honda recently confirmed the Civic Type R will feature a turbocharged 2.0-liter petrol engine, the CR-Z is expected use a turbocharged 1.5-liter petrol engine and an updated hybrid system for a combined maximum output of 224 HP (165kW). For comparison, the current model has a combined output of just 137 HP (101 kW) and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque.

If everything pans out, the new CR-Z could be introduced in 2016.

SOURCE:

Wheels Dealers