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Unbridled Expression of Agile Movement
With an image of
strength emanating across every panel and component, the Mazda Shinari looks
ready to leap at any second. The strong backbone running through the body, the
sudden release of pent-up energy, and the interplay of beautiful, supple
movements - this form is the expression of all of these elements.
The
appearance of the A-pillar, which tapers towards the rear of the body, the shape
of the cabin, the front fender; these and Shinari's other elements combine to
create proportions that suggest the instantaneous release of energy to propel
the car forward.
The distinctive front fenders represent the further
evolution of the prominent fenders introduced in the RX-8. They emphasize the
front wheels and accentuate the dynamic movement expressed in the side of the
body, in a style that is both sporty and elegant. Character lines flow rearward
from the front fenders and meet those traveling forward from the rear fenders in
a multi-layered effect. This fusion creates an appearance that suggests a
forceful sense of tension with a graceful beauty.
All of Shinari's body
surfaces appear as if constantly undergoing transformation. There is no static
shape to be found, as if the car is in perpetual motion. For instance the subtle
control of the angle of the upper surface of the side sill, from the front to
the rear, results in a form that suggests a flash of speed along the body of the
car.
The three-dimensional sculpting of the front grille proudly
emphasizes the Mazda lineage. A powerful line of movement originates at the
grille and continues through the bonnet, fender, front lamp modules and bumper.
In particular the floating bar - which links the grille with the headlights - is
a three-dimensional expression of speed, an accent that represents a new
signature element for Mazda. For the headlights, Mazda's designers have created
a headlamp structure with no outer lens, exposing the deep-set lights and
suggesting the eyes of a wild animal about to pounce on its prey.
Aerodynamic performance was a major priority for Shinari, and the centre of the
lower sections - on both the front and rear bumpers - are designed to optimize
the flow of air along the underbody of the car. The flared line that connects
the front bumper with the side sills and rear bumper, fulfils a similar role and
streamlines the flow of air along the body, while further contributing to the
aerodynamic performance of the car.
The outer mirror, wheels and
tailpipes accentuate the sense of agility and lightness and convey a hand-made
feel with a human touch which contributes to the impression of superior, premium
quality.
For the body colour a luminous metallic blue has been chosen to convey an
image of hard metal. The strong yet elaborate brilliance of the highlights
combines with the clearly defined contrast of the shadows to create a balance
between the sharp, three-dimensional form and the appearance of surfaces bending
and transforming; a balance which was a design objective. The fierce, bright
flash of the forged steel of a Japanese sword is combined with wisdom and
sensuality to express superlative quality.
Exploring a New Approach of
Oneness Between Car and Driver
When creating the Shinari concept
interior Mazda's objective was to design a distinctive premium cockpit that
incorporates its interior DNA. While the exterior design can be appreciated
through motion, the interior, meanwhile, is experienced in a static, seated
position. A commitment to essential mechanical function and excellent ergonomics
has created a driver focused interior that embodies the 'ultimate athletic
space' while expressing a sense of speed inside the vehicle.
Entering the
vehicle your eye is immediately drawn to the driver focused cockpit which
surrounds the driver. Its angle and surface movement sets the tone for the whole
of the interior. The highlight of interior is a surfacing between the upper and
the lower instrument panel which is contrasted by crisp surface edges and
precision mechanical details. Interior craftsmanship is characterized by the use
of bright trim work integrated along the cockpit's perimeter and accentuating
the sensation of speed. An authentic application of materials including machined
aluminum, soft natural leathers and the precision design of instrumentation and
controls, gives the interior an alluring quality that exceeds expectations.
Craftsmanship Meets Total Car Control
Mazda design wanted to
re-define the proximity of the driver to the instrumentation and controls by
establishing intuitive 'reach zones'; what Mazda calls 'dedicated driving
ergonomics'. All instrumentation and controls have been designed and positioned
to enhance the driving experience. By separating the instrument panel into two
individual zones, the driver cockpit is isolated from the rest of the interior
and allows the driver to focus on the task of driving. To reinforce the message
of driver orientation, the design of the primary and secondary instruments echo
the main cockpit shape, to provide a clean uncluttered view from the driver's
seat. Seated behind a thick-rimmed, three-spoke steering wheel the driver sits
within a uniquely contoured seat, providing maximum comfort and support.
The
principle of 'dedicated driving ergonomics' is further reflected in the car's
next generation Human Machine Interface (HMI). The availability of smaller
electronic components has allowed Shinari's designers to create a floating HMI
three-dimensional display; a design element that represents the very latest HMI
technology . The system offers three distinct modes: 'Business, Pleasure and
Sport'.
The Business-mode enables the driver to stay connected to his
work day tasks. In Pleasure-mode, focus is on comfort and entertainment,
allowing the driver to tailor the interior mood creating a relaxed atmosphere.
In Sport-mode the driving set-up is changed; the paddle shifter is activated,
suspension settings are tuned for performance driving, and controls are
simplified allowing the driver to focus solely on the driving experience.
The main dashboard
surfaces are positioned low, and away from the occupants, creating a unique
sensation of openness. The HMI interface and the dedicated seating controls for
the front seat passenger represent a new level of detail and functionality for a
Mazda premium interior. Even though the interior volumes have been rearranged in
this way there is a high level of sportiness to enhance the feeling of driving
dynamics.
Shinari represents the profound connection of driver and
machine and the beginning of Mazda's latest design theme 'Kodo-Soul in Motion'.
Shinari exhibits a functional aesthetic that will continue to evolve as Mazda
continues to define its next generation of vehicles.
The Quest for a
Mazda Original and a Japanese Original
With Shinari as the first
step, Ikuo Maeda, general manager of Mazda's design division, aims to create
original Mazda designs that will be recognized around the world. He summarizes
his resolve in the following words:
"My goal is to create designs that
people can point to proudly and say, 'This is a Mazda design'. There is no need
for Mazda to build cars for people who are only concerned with 'style' and
'trends'. Whether working on sports cars or compact cars, I have always worked
to create designs that evoke an emotional response in people and I hope to keep
doing the same as I remain fully committed to develop designs for people who
love and admire cars. It is my personal belief that the only way to create
designs that fundamentally connect with people and to create designs they love,
is if the people creating them are absolutely passionate about cars and are
willing to make that passion a firm policy for design expression.
"Further, I consider it vitally important to have an awareness of Japanese
originality in designing cars for Mazda. This is not merely about incorporating
traditional Japanese elements into car design. I believe in reflecting the
Japanese spirit in car designs as part of a subconscious practice. So, while I
consider where this may lead in the future, my plan is to create cars that will
be instantly recognizable as a Mazda, even when viewed at a distance. My
ultimate goal is to create a brand presence that car lovers around the world
recognize as representing both Mazda originality and Japanese originality.
Future Mazda's will move people physically and emotionally - this is 'Kodo - Soul of Motion'"
Mazda Shinari Concept: Photo Gallery, Review (1/2) and Specifications