Tokyo Auto Salon 2006(3)

Mazda Speed RX-8
Hasemi G'zox Z
Blitz Lexus IS
RE Amemiya RX-8
Blitz Skyline Drift car
RE Amemiya RX-8
Autobacs S2000 Driftcar
Hartge BMW M5
Nissan R380-II

Tokyo Auto Salon 2006(2)

Nobuteru "NOB" Taniguchi
D1 Car
HKS D1 Altezza
Toyo Tires Booth
Subaru Impreza STI S204
Power House Amuse GT1
Nissan Z33 RS Concept
New Toyota bB
Manabu"Max" Orido

Tokyo Auto Salon 2006

Zero Sports Impreza
Carlson Girls
Mitsubishi Concept
Mugen Honda Fit
Suzuki Swift Rally Car
Honda Modulo Civic

Tokyo Auto Salon starts tomorrow! いよいよ明日オートサロン！

Tokyo Auto Salon starts tomorrow. I'll be updating my blog with a bunch of photos so yoroshiku!

明日いよいよオートサロンです。ブログに写真をいっぱいアップするのでよろしく！

Honda Fit:Not Just a Grocery Getter

The Fit will be released in the US later this year. I did an interview for Honda Tuning magazine about 2 years ago on one guy that has known the sports potential of the Fit.

http://hondatuningmagazine.com/features/0308ht_spoonfit/

I also wrote an article on the Fit Dynamite for Honda Tuning.

Mugen Releases Fit Spec D for 2006 Tokyo Auto Salon

Mugen releases new Honda Fit Spec D for 2006 Tokyo Auto Salon. The TAS will start from 1/13(Friday) until 1/15(Sun) at Makuhari Messe in Chiba near Tokyo.

Click to Mugen page:『無限』プロトタイプ“Ｆｉｔ Ｓｐｅｃ.Ｄを発表

2007 Honda Fit Looks Small on the Outside, Delivers Big on the Inside

2007 Honda Fit Looks Small on the Outside, Delivers Big on the Inside
The new subcompact 5-door hatchback will enter the U.S. subcompact market with class-leading content and segment-defining standard safety equipment.
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Detroit 01/08/2006 -- The all-new 2007 Honda Fit, a subcompact 5-door hatchback set to go on-sale in the U.S. in April, will make its U.S. debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today. Already one of Honda's hottest selling models in Asia and Europe, the Fit is designed to enter the U.S. market as leader in the subcompact segment with top-of-class feature content, refinement, interior functionality, sporty driving demeanor and high levels of standard safety equipment.

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Built on Honda's legendary foundation for dependability, quality and reliability, the Fit is a premium entry-level vehicle that emphasizes style, technology and value. The Fit features a 109 horsepower 1.5-liter 4-cylinder VTEC engine, a 5-speed manual transmission or an available, first in segment, 5-speed automatic transmission, and over 90 cubic feet of passenger volume with multiple seating and cargo configurations. A Fit Sport model offers wheel-mounted paddle shifters (with automatic transmission) and a 160-watt, six-speaker audio system. Fit will be supported by a wide variety of Honda Genuine Accessories, including segment exclusive Honda Apple(R) iPod(R) Music Link(R), allowing owners to personalize their Fits inside and out.
"The 2007 Fit provides a new entry point into Honda for consumers considering an attractive and efficient small car," said John Mendel, senior vice president of American Honda. "The large interior adapts to people or cargo like no other car in its class. It comes standard-equipped with advanced safety technology, and follows in the tradition of Honda's fun-to-drive performance."
Unprecedented Subcompact Seating and Cargo Flexibility
Dimensionally compact on the outside, the interior provides a surprisingly large passenger and cargo space for both maximum comfort and utility. At the foundation is the Fit's Magic Seat(TM), an innovative 60/40 split rear seat that allows the seatbacks to fold down or the seat bottoms to flip up, providing four distinct seating and cargo carrying configurations (refresh mode, tall object mode, long object mode and utility mode) in addition to the standard five passenger mode. With all seats in the upright position, passenger volume measures 90.1 cubic feet (slightly less than an Accord's passenger volume) with 21.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind the second row (slightly less than an Element's cargo volume behind the second row). In order to help maximize Fit's useable interior space, Honda located the fuel tank in a central location towards the middle of the vehicle. This allows the cargo floor in the rear of Fit to be relatively low, thus increasing the interior volume.
Fun to Drive...Past the Pump
The 1.5-liter, SOHC, 16-valve, 4-cylinder VTEC engine generates 109 horsepower @ 5800 rpm and 105 foot-pounds of torque @ 4800 rpm. The compact and efficient powerplant features Honda's innovative Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC(TM)).The VTEC system's ability to provide highly efficient operation at low engine speeds and extended performance at high engine speeds benefits fuel economy, power and low emissions.
Refinement is further enhanced with electronic Drive-by-Wire throttle control, which provides quick throttle response, smooth automatic transmission shifts (on automatic transmission models) and precise fuel delivery to the engine. Friction reducing technologies include roller bearing tipped rocker arms, a low friction timing chain tensioner, molydebenum coated piston skirts and an offset crankshaft/connecting rod design.
The suspension set up for the Fit is a combination of a front MacPherson strut/rear torsion beam with trailing arm.
The compact front suspension and rear torsion beam were both designed to allow for a large passenger cabin with a low floor to maximize the cargo carrying capacity.
Fit employs a compact, efficient and highly responsive Electric Power Steering (EPS) system that also contributes to higher fuel economy since engine power is not needed to operate a hydraulic system. The wheel size measures 14-inches with P175/65R14 tires, and 16-inch wheels with P205/45R16 are available as a dealer-installed option.
Estimated city/highway fuel economy ratings of 33/38 miles per gallon is expected to be among the highest ratings in the subcompact 5-door hatchback class. Emissions levels are rated as Low Emissions Vehicle 2 (LEV-2) by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and Tier 2 / Bin 5 by the Federal government.
Top-of-Class Standard Safety Equipment
Already a leader in vehicle safety as demonstrated by Honda's "Safety for Everyone" initiative, Honda continues to implement leading airbag technology in all vehicles regardless of size or price. The Fit has the most standard safety features in its class with no other subcompact offering as much standard advanced safety technology. Dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags, dual front side airbags and side-curtain airbags are standard equipment on all Fit models. All seating positions have three-point seat belts, while front occupants are further protected by pre-tensioning seat belts. An enhanced knee bolster provides additional protection for passengers.
Standard active safety equipment includes anti-lock braking system (ABS) with ventilated discs in the front and drums in the back, and electronic brake distribution (EBD).
Paddle Shifters, Audio Options Define High Content Sport Model
The Fit Sport model is the only subcompact to offer steering wheel-mounted paddle shifter controls (with automatic transmission). The Sport package includes underbody kit, rear roofline spoiler, fog lights, security system with keyless remote entry, cruise control, and 15-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with P195/55R15 tires.
The Fit Sport also features a premium 160-watt, AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers, MP3/WMA playback capability, a five-mode equalizer, and an auxiliary audio jack for input from a portable music player.
Most Standard Subcompact Features, Segment Exclusive Accessories
Fit comes with standard amenities such as air conditioning, an AM/FM/CD audio system with four speakers, power windows, power mirrors, power door locks, and a two-tone interior.
The 2007 Fit promises to be one of the most customizable vehicles from Honda with approximately 30 accessories available at the dealer. Fit will offer the Honda Apple(R) iPod(R) Music Link(R) as a dealer-installed accessory. The Honda iPod Music Link allows the user's iPod (sold separately) to fully interact with the audio system. A segment exclusive, Music Link will control all the iPod's features via the audio head unit with album/song information shown on the vehicle's audio unit LCD display. It will also charge the iPOD's battery.
Other interior accessories include an ambient lighting, trim panel accents (silver, red and blue), steering wheel covers and shift knobs. Outside, the Fit can be customized with Honda Factory Performance equipment including 16-inch alloy wheels, Sport package underbody kit, sport exhaust, chrome exhaust tip finisher, rear bumper accents and a sport mesh grille.
A consumer preview Web site for the Fit is available at fit.honda.com. Official pricing for the 2007 Honda Fit has not yet been determined.
# # #
Additional media information and high-resolution photography is available at www.hondanews.com. Consumer information is available at fit.honda.com.
2007 Honda Fit Looks Small on the Outside, Delivers Big on the Inside">email this page

Source:Honda Press Release

Mitsubishi Motors Lineup at 2006 North American International Auto Show

Source:Mitsubishi Motors Press Release

Mitsubishi Motors Lineup at 2006 North American International Auto Show
Mitsubishi Concept-CT MIEV
Eclipse Spyder
Tokyo, January 10, 2006 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) and its manufacturing and sales unit in the United States, Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA, based in Cypress California) will give the Mitsubishi Concept-CT[1] MIEV[2] 4WD sport compact concept and the new Eclipse Spyder convertible their world premieres at the 2006 North American International Auto Show (Detroit Motor Show). Mitsubishi Concept-CT MIEV uses outer rotor type in-wheel motors and a lithium-ion battery system to drive all four wheels, together with a gasoline engine in a hybrid configuration. The 2006 NAIAS runs from January 8 to 22 at the Cobo Center in Detroit and is open to the general public from January 14.
MMNA president and CEO Hiroshi Harunari, who took up his new post on January 1, made the following remarks at a press conference held at the show on January 9. "The size and potential of the American market makes it one of our most important markets. In Mitsubishi Motors' drive toward success on a global scale it is vital that we continue to rebuild and improve the sales and profitability of our operations in this market. To put the U.S. operations back on a healthy foundation, last year we called upon the leadership of Rich Gilligan and his fine team to promote the rebuildingof the Mitsubishi brand and the enhancement of our sales performance. Sales operations are being normalized and profitability improved through a process of introducing new models, curtailing fleet sales, and reducing inventory levels. Offering appealing sales finance products to customers is anotherprofitability improving policy this is being implemented. It is clear that these steps are starting to pay dividends.
However, the impact of high oil prices has led to increasing uncertainty in the U.S. market, especially for the automotive industry. For this reason, the relationship between MMC and MMNA has been strengthened to allow for more flexibility in responding to market changes. The company will continue to take steps to normalize sales operations, raise operating efficiencies and increase profit opportunities by actively promoting exports from MMNA's Illinois factory to other markets. Management of both companies are committed to working together to improve operations in North America and to accelerate implementation of existing policies and introduction of more detailed measures."
MMC and MMNA are displaying a total of 11 models including Mitsubishi Concept-CT MIEV and Eclipse Spyder, most of which are produced in the United States.
1. Mitsubishi Concept-CT MIEV walkaround
A concept for a new kind of sports compact that captures the essence of the Mitsubishi Motors brand as it combines driving pleasure with low fuel consumption.
(1) Exterior highlights
Using the same rear-midship layout as the new i minicar to be launched in Japan this month, the wheels on Mitsubishi Concept-CT MIEV have been moved to the corners of the vehicle yielding a stable and forceful looking stance within a compact 3800 mm length.
The overall design theme was inspired by the large scooters popular today.Mitsubishi Concept-CT MIEV's geometric lines impart an architectural look in creating a shape that promises to wrap its occupants in safety and comfort.
With no center pillars, double opening doors (with rear door hinges located in the rear portion of the body) allow enhanced entry and exit.
(2) Interior highlights
The instrument panel incorporates a new system wide-format screen stretching from driver's seat to passenger's seat that can display speedometer and fuel readings, on-board navigation and climate control information, entertainment functions and rear/side view mirror images all at the same time.
The center console houses a computer touch pad-like interface in a simple configurationto give the driver easy,ergonomic access to climate and audio controls.
The seats use a simple, ultra-slim design to emphasize their light weight. The front passenger seatback and rear seatbacks fold flat and together with the double opening doors and split-tailgate significantly enhance Mitsubishi Concept-CT MIEV's load carrying ability.
(3) Hybrid powertrain system
Mitsubishi Concept-CT MIEV is the first vehicle to apply a hybrid drive system to the Mitsubishi Motors' MIEV next-generation electric vehicle concept that utilizes in-wheel motors and high energy-density lithium-ion batteries as core technologies. Features include:
A series-parallel hybrid drive system that delivers higher power and an extended cruising range.
A new 1.0-liter 3-cylinder MIVEC[3] engine (generator) that produces a maximum of 50 kW (68 ps).
A lithium-ion battery system with a 50 kW maximum output housed under the rear seats and under the front hood.
Outer rotor type in-wheel motors, developed first for Lancer Evolution MIEV, are fitted to all four wheels, producing a maximum power of 20kW each. The system allows drive power and braking to be independently regulated with high precision at each wheel and thereby capitalize on Mitsubishi Motors' hallmark all-wheel control technology and know-how to a maximum advantage. The result is a high-performance hybrid vehicle that delivers not only highlevels of environmental performance, but also power and driving performance superior to that in conventional gasoline vehicles.
2. Eclipse Spyder walkaround
Eclipse Spyder is the open-top model for the new fourth generation Eclipse coupe, which was introduced in 2005 andis acclaimed for its sporty, dynamic styling. Eclipse Spyder is the third generation open-top model. Eclipse Spyder is offered in two trim levels: the GT and the GS powered by 3.8-liter V6 and 2.4-liter 4-cylinder MIVEC engines respectively.
(1) Design highlights
Eclipse Spyder uses sleek, taut and muscular lines to create a shape that is cool and aggressive whether the cloth top is up or down.
Large-sized headlamps crafted to flow into the bodylines, and chrome-look LED tail lamps distinguish the exterior and generate a sporty appearance with a strong sophisticated flavor.
Using aninstrument panel that houses distinctive motorcycle-inspired gauges and ice-blue night illumination for better legibility, the interior styling projects the cool image and creates the feel-good space that convertible owners look for.
(2) Engine, transmission, and brakes
The Eclipse Spyder GT mates a 3.8-liter V6 MIVEC engine to either a six-speed manual transmission or a sport-mode equipped five-speed automatic. Pumping out a maximum of 195 kW (260 ps) and 35.7 kg-m (350 N-m) of torque, the Spyder GT accelerates from zero to 60 mph (zero to 96 km/h) in about seven seconds.
The Eclipse Spyder GS mates a 2.4-liter in-line 4-cylinder MIVEC engine to either a five-speed manual transmission or a sport-mode equipped four-speed automatic. Producing a maximum power of 119kW (162ps), the Spyder GS returns excellent fuel efficiency, rated to achieve 30 mpg (12.7 km/liter) in highway driving by EPA testing standards.
The GT employs 4-wheel disc brakes, while the GS uses a drum-in-disc system for the rear brakes.
(3) Trim & equipment
In a premium-level design that enhances its appearance and convenience, the third-generation Eclipse Spyder features an automatic soft top which smoothly folds completely out of sight under a flush-fitting hydraulicpowered tonneau panelin about 19 seconds.
Both GT and GS trim levels come standard with 17-inch alloy road wheels, air conditioning, an advanced dual-stage driver and passenger seat SRS air bag system,head protecting seat-mounted side air bags, an anti-lock brake system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD[4]), cruise control, engine immobilizer and keyless entry.
Featured in Eclipse launched last year and in Outlander sold in Japan, a highly acclaimed audio system was co-developed with Rockford Fosgate® a leading American car audio system manufacturer. This premium audio system features a 650 Watt power amp with a six-disc, in-dash CD changer that can also play MP3 files.For the Eclipse Spyder, this system features a subwoofer center-mounted underthe rear seat. It provides unique automatic sound adjustment and equalization for the different sound conditions under top-up or top-down driving.
Leather seating surfaces, heated front seats and heated exterior mirrors together with outside temperature and compass displays standard on the GT are available as options on the GS.
GT is available with a premium package that features 18-inch alloy wheels with 235/45 R18 tires, a six-way power driver's seat, aluminum pedals and an automatic climate control system.
3. Specifications
Mitsubishi Concept-CT MIEV
Overall length:
3,800mm
Overall width:
1,700mm
Overall height:
1,430mm
Wheelbase:
2,600mm
Seating capacity:
4
Engine:
1.0liter 3-cylinder MIVEC
Transmission:
Hybrid
Drive system:
Series-parallel hybrid
Electric motor power:
80 kW (20 kW x 4)
Generator power:
40 kW
Engine power:
50 kW (1.0-liter 3-cyl.)
Battery power:
50 kW
Battery weight:
33 kg
Eclipse Spyder
Overall length:
4,565mm
Overall width:
1,835mm
Overall height:[equipped with 18-inch wheels]
1,381mm [1,389mm]
Wheelbase:
2,575mm
Track (F/R)
1,570mm / 1,570mm
Seating capacity:
4
Tires: [18-inch wheels]
225/50R17 [235/45R18]
Wheels: [18-inch wheels]
17x7.5JJ [18x8.0JJ]
Engine:
3.8-liter V6 MIVEC / 4G69 2.4-liter L4 MIVEC
Transmission:
3.8-liter
5-speed automatic with sport mode or6-speed manual
2.4-liter
4-speed automatic with sport mode or5-speed manual
Drive mode:
Front-engine, front-drive
4. Mitsubishi Motors lineup at 2006 Detroit Motor Show
Model
Type
Remarks
Mitsubishi Concept-CT MIEV
Show car
World premiere
Eclipse Spyder
New model
World premiere
Street Raider concept
Show car
As exhibited at SEMA
Eclipse
Production model

Lancer Evolution MR
Production model
(Lancer Evolution IX in Japan)
Lancer (Ralliart)
Production model

Galant
Production model
Outlander
Production model
(Airtrek Sport Gear in Japan)
Raider
Production model

Endeavor
Production model
Montero
Production model
(Pajero in Japan)
[1] Compact Technology[2] Mitsubishi In-wheel motor Electric Vehicle[3] Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control system[4] Electronic Brake-force Distribution

Lexus Unveils Fourth-generation LS 460 Flagship Sedan

Source:Toyota Press Release
January 10, 2006

Lexus Unveils Fourth-generation LS 460 Flagship Sedan at DetroitMotor Show2007 LS 460 to Offer Standard- and Long-wheelbase ModelsTOKYO, January 10, 2006 — Lexus unveiled yesterday (January 8 in the United States) the all-new 2007 LS 460 and the company's first-ever, long-wheelbase model, the LS 460L, during a press conference at the 2006 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), which takes place in Detroit from January 8 to 22*."The Lexus LS 460 was designed to expand the definition of the full-size prestige luxury sedan," said Jim Press, president and COO of Toyota Motor Sales. "The new LS is the product of an advanced production process developed specifically for this vehicle with remarkable new levels of accuracy, refinement, precision and craftsmanship. Considering our record for quality over the last 17 years, that's quite a statement," he added.Seventeen years after its initial launch in Detroit, the redesigned LS now combines new levels of performance, sophistication, contemporary styling and luxury refinements. "During the next few months, we'll provide more details about the all-new Lexus LS 460 as we prepare to launch this highly anticipated sedan," said Press. "If you like the way the LS looks, you'll be even more impressed when you hear about its advanced safety and innovative technology," he added. The 2007 Lexus LS 460 is targeted for sale beginning in the fall of 2006. *Press days: 8-10; Invitation-only days: 11-12; Charity Preview day: 13; public admission: 14-22 Vehicle OutlineHigh-output V8, World's First Eight-Speed TransmissionThe LS will be powered by an all-new, highly advanced 4.6-liter V8 engine that will produce approximately 380 horsepower and 370 pound-feet of torque. Combined with an eight-speed automatic transmission—a world first—the LS 460 will travel from zero to sixty miles-per-hour in less than 5.5 seconds. With that level of performance, the new LS will achieve an impressive combined city/highway fuel efficiency that is estimated to be in the mid-20s. Lexus also anticipates receiving an Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV II) rating. Excellent Driving PerformanceThe new LS is built on a sophisticated platform that maintains a delicate balance between ride comfort and responsive handling. The completely redesigned multi-link suspension system includes an all-new, variable-gear-ratio, electronic power-steering system and a next-generation Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system. VDIM is an all-new system that integrates and manages a new Electronically Controlled Brake system (ECB), Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS), Electric Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), ABS, Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and engine torque via the electronically controlled throttle.Monitoring a variety of sensors, the system is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle skid or slide and then help correct the situation with a combination of braking, throttle and steering control in a way that’s essentially transparent to the driver. Data is gathered from more sources and processed earlier and faster than previous designs, helping to make VDIM less obtrusive yet highly effective. First Long-wheelbase SedanAt nearly 203 inches, the long-wheelbased LS 460L provides an even higher level of comfort and convenience features along with some of the most advanced technology ever offered in a production automobile. The four-passenger compartment of the LS 460L transports its rear-seat passengers in an environment whose luxury accoutrements closely resemble to that of a private jet.Luxury: Redefined by LexusIntelligent technology and emotionally provacative design is clearly evident throughout the beautifully appointed cabin. The extra touches of luxury and comfort include a heated steering wheel and seats swathed in one of four tones of semi-aniline leathers that match one of three coordinating wood-grain trims.Rear occupants can relax and enjoy power reclining seats equipped with power leg rests and even a massage feature. The new LS even offers body-heat sensors that help maintain the perfect temperature for all occupants. A fold-away table matched to the interior wood grain provides ample work space for rear passengers. The LS also features a nine-inch, headliner-mounted, rear-screen monitor along with an all-new 19-speaker Mark Levinson® audio system that provides a true theater-level entertainment experience. Additional luxury convenience features include a power rear-door closer and a powered trunk lid. New Lexus Design DirectionOver the last two years, Lexus has developed a new styling philosophy that it calls "L-finesse". This new design language rests upon the inherent contrast between simplicity and elegance—and the beauty of achieving a balance between the two. Simplicity, in form and function, reflects styling that is uncluttered and void of extraneous elements. Lexus elegance, inside and out, avoids exaggeration by prioritizing understated luxury that is intriguing, subtle, seamless and slightly surprising. Lexus imbued this new styling direction in the development of the 2006 GS and IS series sport sedans. The new LS takes the L-finesse visual philosophy to an even higher level, revealing a family resemblance in the new Lexus sedans, and one that conveys elegance, refinement and a strong emotional appeal.2007 Lexus LS 460 Specifications

LS 460(Standard Wheelbase)
LS 460L(Long Wheelbase)
Wheelbase
2,970mm
3,090mm
Difference: 120mm
Overall Length
5,130mm
5,150mm
Difference: 20mm
Overall Width
1,875mm
Overall Height
1,475mm (with coil suspension)
Engine
4.6-liter V8
Horsepower (estimated)
Approximately 380 hp
Torque (estimated)
Approximately 370 lb.-ft.
Drivetrain
Rear-wheel drive
Suspension
Front & Rear Multi-Link Suspension (five links)
0-60 miles per hour acceleration (mfr. results)
Under 5.5 sec.
Fuel Economy (city/highway [mpg*1])*2
Mid-20-mpg range
Emissions Rating*3
ULEV II*1 Miles per gallon (1 mile=1.61 kilometers, 1 gallon=3.79 liters) *2 Manufacturer's estimate of EPA fuel economy ratings *3 Manufacturer's estimate of emissions ratings

Honda Asimo Robot

Honda started showing a commercial on TV with the new and improved Asimo Robot that can run at a speed of 6km/hour. That may seem pretty slow but the previous version only walked at 3km/hour. Now it can travel twice the speed.

Here is the link to the commercial: http://www.honda.co.jp/HDTV/ASIMO/cm-circle/

Here you can see it running around:http://www.honda.co.jp/ASIMO/newmodel/05/index.html

New Year Karaoke Cop

We went to the Meiji jingu Shrine on new years day to wish for a good new year. It was actually my first time to go on January 1st. Mobs of people arrive just before 12:00 to throw coins and wish for a prosperous new year. You pass inch by inch through the walk way while gravel getting in your shoes, until you finally reach the main shrine. Lucky if you can throw a coin far enough to reach the collecting area. It's a traditional way to start off the year. It's just like the Western way, you do the count down in a crowded club, feet hurting from dancing and throwing money away on drinks. We went just after 3:00am and missed the peak traffic. Here we saw this police officer standing in front of a microphone. He looked like he was about to blast into a Saburo Kitajima number under the huge Japanese "ema" with the dog. 2006 is the year of the dog. The other photo is of Mount Fuji from Makuhari across the Tokyo Bay. (See Bosozoku entry) Happy new year to all.

US v.s. Japan Friendly Match

After the D1 grandprix on 12/17, we had our own little friendly match between the US and Japan. Yasuyuki Kazama, Ken Gushi and Rhys Millen. Oh and even Verena Mei too. But to make all conditions equal we had everyone go in the same car. A car known to be a pretty hard car to drift. The new Mazda MX-5. It's easy to drift in your own machine you are used to competing in. You're really good when you can look good drifting a stock MX-5 without any modifications at all. (We got a stock MX-5 with the Sport Package that comes with an LSD and sports suspension) They were all good and we had a great time watching them. Lots of laughs too.

Some more staff shots

Photo #1. Camera guys. Definitely people you do not want to mess with. They are the toughest of them all. There would be no video product without these guys.
Photo #2. From left. Girl drifter and model Verena Mei. http://www.stargirlracing.com/ Now this girl has guts. The day before the shoot, Tsuchiya asked her if she wanted to join in on the drift competition between Kazama, Rhys Millen and Ken Gushi. I wouldn't blame any hard ass to back down from that challenge but she accepted and went head on with those guys. Hats off to her. You have to buy the video to see what happened.
Middle is Ken and to his right is Tina who helped us out for the day. Tina can't drift yet but she has the looks to become a model soon.

Photo #3. 2&4 Production guys. From right, Yamada-san who is the genius that first came up with the original Touge Showdown in Hot Version. In the middle is Tanabe-san who was basically the guy who said 5 years ago, "Zigzag Asia? I have no idea who the hell you guys are but, I'll let you guys make the English version of Best Motoring". We owe it big time to him for believing in us from the beginning. Last is Mi Amigo Matsuda-san who's the production manager of these shows. Some people say his roots go back to Pancho Villa but I'm too scared to ask him in person.

Zigzag Asia Staff

We are actually a pretty small group. Starting from the left is Masa Kuji who is our General Manager for Zigzag Asia(America) and he's also a board member of the Japanese HQ. Masa grew up in Canada and plays hockey but he's also a car nut. He was just about to cry when we sold the Tommykaira Z but it wasn't doing us much good to pick us up at LAX so we decided to sell the car. I know he used to own a Mark II in Canada, a 180 during school and an M3 before moving to LA. Next is Ken Takahashi Ken is our sales director for Zigzag Asia (America) among many other roles like chief gossip officer since he's so plugged into the import industry. Ken is also a judge for the Formula D drifting series. Ken is OG and native so he drives a big O'l American Hummer and also owns a Grand National from the 80's. For some reason, he also owns a right hand drive JDM S13 Silvia. I like driving it around town when I'm in the States. It's completely stock but it's a great little car. Next to him is Katsu Takahashi who is not related to Ken Takahashi despite their resemblance. He is our wonder guy who is in charge of practically all creative work from video editing, ads, t-shirts, DVD packages, website, stickers you name it. Katsu has been into cars and I think he's just about changed cars every year for the past 5 years. I don't even know what he is driving now. Oh, wait I think it was Citroen. Yeah, he likes European makes. Last is me, Taro Koki who is the president of Zigzag Asia Co.,Ltd in Japan and Zigzag Asia(America) located in Torrance. I live smack in the middle of Tokyo and I don’t own a car. In Tokyo there is Yuko my sister who takes care of administration and accounting. She's usually in Japan holding down the fort while Katsu and I go back and forth. This picture was taken at Willowspring immediately after our American Touge shoot. Katsu and I are back in Tokyo starting to edit AT2 and Masa and Ken are back to business as usual selling Best Motoring and Hot Version DVDs.

Hot Wheels presents American Touge 2 Report

Our second American Touge shoot was a great success for us. I want to thank all of the tuners that brought out their cars, our sponsors, people that came out to watch, the media and everyone else that helped make it happen. It would not have been possible with out you!
After our first shoot last December we really received a lot of e-mails from shops around the US asking us when we would have another one. Earlier this year, we decided to go ahead but have an open casting call to give as many tuners a chance to have Keiichi Tsuchiya drive their cars. Out of about 100 cars, we narrowed it down to 40 cars. All 40 cars showed up with a total of about 200 people. Most people were extremely happy with the event. That they had Keiichi Tsuchiya and Yasuyuki Kazama drive their cars and they got to meet the two top level drivers. Just seeing the fans happy makes it all worth while for us to come all the way from Japan to do a US shoot.
On the other hand it is a video shoot and not an event so the video shooting has priority, making some people who participated unhappy. For instance, we only have so many video equipment so we have to choose which cars will get on board cameras. We equiped as many cars as possible during a short period of time. But in addition to appearing in our video, the tuners that brought their cars will for sure get exposure through the other media which were on site. Super Street, Modified, Import Racer, C16 and Jtuned were all there to shoot photos. Those are the top magazines in the industry so the tuners are killing a couple birds with one stone(coming to American Touge 2). But my biggest regret were the tire rules. All of the confusion caused on site was totally caused by the lack of preparation and lack of acknowlegement on how serious the situation would be. It is completely our fault. In Japan we don't have any written Touge Showdown rules since it is not a sanctioned race nor event. It is just a segment in our video that showcases top level street cars by the hands of our drivers. We just tell the tuners to bring street radial sports tires. We do not have slicks, semi slicks, nylon ply street legal tires. We don't have "competition" DOT approved tires. Since we didn't have time to narrow down the make and spec of which tires are Ok and not. We just left it to " street legal, steel belted radials" which caused all of the confusion. We were not intending to turn people back if they brought slicks in the first place. We were willing to give people chances if their car broke down. It is not a competition, it is a video shoot.
That all said, I appreciate that everyone cares greatly about who wins. It is awesome that each tuner takes enormous pride in how their vehicle performs at our shoot. We as producers need to take more of that into account and take this entire project as more than just a "video shoot" we plan each year. We intend to do that.
One most learn from each mistake and for our next video shoot, we will have to make the rules and judging process more clearer. We will also probably need to designate which tires are OK and which are not.
It is a learning curve for all of us. When we first started out we wanted to simply bring entertaining car content from Japan. Now our goals are to produce entertaining car content which involves both the US and Japan. Integration always has glitches in the beginning. We will work hard to get rid of the bugs to truly produce an international version of Best Motoring and Hot Version to successfully make something that makes everyone involved in it happy and proud.

Porsche Cayman

Covering the Porsche Cayman was one of our objectives for this trip in late December for us. Cars for the media have only been recently released from Porsche USA. In Japan the earliest we can get our hands on it will be mid January so we decided to fly over to the US to get the first ride out of all of the Japanese media. Best Motoring scheduled for release in January will cover the Porsche Cayman. Sam Mitani a good friend of mine who is the international editor for Road & Track appears in Best Motoring for the first time as the US host for Keiichi Tsuchiya. Sam is also well known in Japan since he has a monthly column in a Japanese magazine called Xacar. He writes about the latest movements in the US auto industry and motorsports. Thanks to him we were able to make it happen this time. I would like to see Sam appear in more Best Motorings in the future. He is bilingual and knows cars across all boarders.

Best Motoring US location

Preparing the MX-5 for the Hot Version segment in front of our office.

Bosozoku

I saw in the news today that Japanese police will use paint guns with florescent paint to catch bosozoku on new years eve. For some odd reason, Japanese bosozoku from all over Japan come out on new years eve and head towards Mt. Fuji. You know just like army ants on a rampage, they just come out of no where, eating everything in their path and march straight forward to the target point. Each year, that point happens to be Mt. Fuji. In Japan the first sun rise of the year is supposed to be very lucky and many people stay up to see it. If you can see the first sun rise of the year by the tallest mountain in Japan, Mt.Fuji, that is like finding a batch of four leaf clover under a rainbow in Western standards. For the bosozoku it is the same as they too want a prosperous new year. Japanese police have been trying to catch these guys but they are slippery fish so they thought paint guns with florescent paint will help identify them at night so they can chase them down. They were even showing how they were training today. They had traffic police dress up as bosozoku and drive around while cops from vans shot paint at them. Some of these police acting as bosozoku were way to good at it. I had a really good photo of a bosozuko bike I took at Daikokufuto one night but I can't seem to find it. You'll just have to settle for this photo of some crazy bosozoku wannabes. Needless to say in the bosozoku world, the lower you crouch the badder you are.

Oakley

Oakley Hemi Funny Car
and Head Office



I had a chance to recently visit Oakley at their head quarters in Foothill Ranch CA. My perspective on the company totally changed after taking a tour of the company. Not only do they make sick looking sunglasses, they are actually very hi tech! Every concept, development, testing and manufacturing of their glasses are all done in house. Nothing is outsourced. Their glasses are their core business so they do not let anyone near it. Not to mention they have a million patents too. They even have a self sustained environment at their head quarters. That means they can fix every thing in house, like their own airconditioning system or lunch tables for that matter.
The first thing you notice after driving up to their office is that it looks like an Oakley astronomical obsertatory. (Photo: With cool Ducati parked out front) Once you go inside, the the Oakley Hemi powered drag car catches your eye on the back wall. Right behind the lobby is a big auditorium where we basically sat down and got brainwashed by these cool extreme sport images and music. Got me pumping and also thinking about what our motorsports content can do with Oakley, real seriously. Joses was our guide for the day and he taught us a lot of things we did not know. All the research and testing that go behind each pair of shades are pretty impressive. We especially liked the beebee gun test. There is a rubber dummy that you put shades on and a machine spits out a metal ball at it at 200mph. The Oakley shades bounces the ball off while some "competitors" glasses cannot withstand it. Next time I get shot at with a beebee gun I'll make sure to have my Oakleys on. : ) We finished the tour with lunch at their caffeteria in front of the NBA approved full size indoor basket ball court where guests and employees are free to shoot hoops. It was truly a cool experience. I have more respect for Oakley than ever now.

What's a touge?

The touge means "mountain" or "hill". When we first came out with our Best Motoring International videos in 2001 we had discussion whether we should translate the word to mountain or rather go with the Japanese word "touge". We thought the English language can use another Japanese word besides banzai and sushi. Since then we've stuck to using the word touge because it not only means mountain but represents the kind of hills that the Japanese race on. At first people were saying, "oh, man I love your tooj showdown". We kept at it and now it is pretty commonly used at least in the import racing community.
Initial D made touge racing known but it is still an underground activity. All of our Touge Showdown segments are shot on a closed circuit. We like to keep it on the tracks and do no support street racing.

American Touge 2

All of the participants have been fixed for our second American Touge shoot in the US. We're asking all participants to arrive to Willowspring at 7am on 12/20(Tue). We have 40 cars plus. Most people will probably bring friends along so we're estimating about 100 people and cars. It should be a fun day.
All of the regulations for the cars have been posted on our web site http://www.bestmotoringvideo.com and the forum on the site. Biggest thing the participants need to care about is tires and the drivers seat. Tires cannot be slick racing tires. You will be disqualified so please make sure to have sports radials. I say drivers seat, because owners must realize that Tsuchiya and Orido will both be driving the cars. Now Keiichi Tsuchiya is not the tallest man on earth and even though Orido is not Yao Ming their driving positions are way different. Every car MUST have adjustable seats or Keiichi will simply refuse to drive it. So please do not forget about this fact.
Other than that just having every body close to Tsuchiya and Orido will make it a real fun day. US fans seldom get to hang out with these guys so we think it'll be a great chance to meet them and also to have the cars judged by them.

Best Motoring Intl.Vol.18 Fast on 4 Trailer

XDL Show

We went to video shoot the XDL show at Irwindale on 12/3. It was the first time drifters and stunt riders performed together. I think there will be more events like this to come in the future. Manabu Orido, Nob Taniguchi and Takahiro Ueno all had fun at the event. Special thanks to team sponsors and partners at Paramax, Oakley, RS-R, HKS, Drift Association, Red Bull, Mazda and Yokohama tires.

Zigzag Asia will be producing the XDL Show promo video so look forward to that.

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