The diminutive Japanese automaker Daihatsu->ke26, is better known for building compact off roaders and kei cars has prepared a treat for the Tokyo Auto Show. The Daihatsu e:S Concept is based on the automaker’s popular mini car platform, and while the 3,100 mm long design study’s wheelbase has been shortened to just 2,175 mm it still offers enough interior space to accommodate four full sized Japanese adults comfortably. Keeping in line with Daihatsu’s fun looking line of vehicles, the e:S Concept carries over all of the familiar lines from the Daihatsu family while adding an extra sense of spirit to the tiny ride.

The main theme behind the Daihatsu e:S Concept is lightweight efficiency, because without a lot of excess weight to pull around, the kei car can make the most of what it already has. Due to the mini car’s nature, there is not a whole lot that goes into the car’s assembly. Aside from the compact construction, Daihatsu’s engineers have shed as many pounds as possible by using slim, lightweight seats and replacing many of the vehicle’s materials with lighter versions, the result is a curb weight of only 700 kilograms, and that is only 1543 pounds. Enhancing the e:S’s lightweight efficiency is a mild hybrid style Idling Stop System that turns off the engine when the vehicle is at rest to further reduce fuel consumption. Although it may never make it to the U.S. Daihatsu’s e:S Concept is undoubtedly an efficient ride.

Press release after the jump.

daihatsu-e-s-concept

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: daihatsu-e-s-concept

2010 Daihatsu e:S Concept

Specifications
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Press release

A new eco-car that reveals the future role of mini vehicles

  • The e:S is based on a current platform with the wheelbase shortened to 2,175mm. Although it has compact exterior dimensions, the package can accommodate four adult passengers.
  • In addition to a compact body, the use of slim, lightweight seats and the replacement of many materials with lighter versions limits total vehicle weight to 700kg.
  • The e:S is equipped with a conventional mini vehicle engine fitted with a combustion control system developed by Daihatsu and an EGR, as well as an Idling Stop System.
  • The high environmental performance of mini vehicles is maximized by combining existing technologies to achieve fuel efficiency of 30km/liter* without the use of an electric motor or other systems.