On the Development of a Lower Fuel Consumption Concept Car with High Performance

Based on a 1982 model passenger car powered by a 1490 cm³ 4-cylinder engine, a concept car has been designed to achieve a substantial fuel economy improvement without sacrificing vehicle performance. The deisgn factors affecting the fuel efficiency of the engine and the vehicle were picked up and improved via experimental analyses. As the cumulative effects of the modifications implemented, the concept car has virtually achieved a fuel economy improvement goal of 40%.

A simulation program was carried out to determine the fuel economy contribution of each design factor modified for incorporation in the concept car, thereby identifying the areas to be concentrated on for practical application.