Original name: ダイハツ UFE-III

1. Concept

The third evolution of the ultra fuel-efficient vehicle UFE first exhibited at the Geneva Motor Show in 2002

A hybrid minicar aiming at the world’s best fuel economy with the ultimate aerodynamics, light body and advanced fuel-saving technologies

Daihatsu’s pursuit of low fuel consumption remains unchanged. There are two objectives. One is to provide an answer to the global environmental problems. The other is to support the daily livings of its customers worldwide. After all, the essence of the compact car is to maximise the joy of owning a car while minimising the stress of car ownership. That’s why low fuel consumption is an important feature for all Daihatsu vehicles. Daihatsu’s unceasing pursuit of low fuel consumption is reflected in the fuel-saving technologies employed in Daihatsu’s production models, which are delivered to all parts of the world. Daihatsu will continue to pursue low fuel consumption. Please take a look at our latest achievement in the Ultra Fuel Economy and look forward to what Daihatsu will deliver with the next Ultra Fuel Economy.

2. Low fuel consumption technology

The UFE-III is presented in a three-seater package seating one in the front and two in the rear. The overall height of only 1200 mm contributes to its aerodynamically advanced styling. Using aerodynamic simulation technologies, the UFE-III’s body parts are aerodynamically optimised, resulting in very low air resistance. The UFE-III achieves a drag coefficient (CD) of 0.168, which is among the world’s lowest and supersedes the CD value of 0.25 of the original UFE unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in 2002 as well as the CD value of 0.19 of its predecessor, the UFE-II.

The resin composite body with abundant use of aluminium parts reduces the weight to just 440 kg. Newly designed 115/65R16 tyres with reduced rolling resistance also contribute to further improved fuel economy.

3. Power train

The power unit is a hybrid system comprising an internal combustion engine and two electric motors. The engine is a 660 cc, inline three-cylinder, direct injection Atkinson engine that achieves a well balanced combination of power, fuel consumption and clean emissions. For the generator and driving motors, light and compact, highly efficient AC synchronous electric motors are used. The transmission is an electronically controlled continuously variable type operated by the generator and planetary gears.

4. Exterior and Interior design

The body styling concept is “Techno Future.” The super aerodynamic form has an image of a car running smoothly through the air. Pointed LED lamps and a canopy door are employed to express a new-generation feel, while the magnificent window graphics that extend to the roof top and the smoothly running surfaces are full of rich emotion.

The interior is designed under the theme of “Human-touch Techno.” Within the compact body, the interior has sufficient room for three occupants and is finished in a futuristic and comfortable atmosphere. The use of steer-by-wire and the ergonomically arranged controls mean enhanced operability and functionality. When the canopy door is opened or closed, the floating instrument panel and front seat also move up or down, making it amazingly easy to get in and out of the car.

5. Specifications

Overall length

mm

3395

Overall width

mm

1475

Overall height

mm

1200

Wheelbase

mm

2170

Seating capacity

persons

3

Battery type

Nickel hydride

Engine type

Inline 3-cylinder, DOHC,
12-valve, direct injection
Atkinson, DVVT

Displacement

cc

660

Transmission

Electric CVT

Suspension

(front)

MacPherson strut

(rear)

Torsion beam

Steering type

Steer-by-wire

Tyre size

115/65R16

Fuel consumption

(EU combined)

L/100km

2.1

(Japanese 10-15 mode)

km/L

72

SOURCE: Daihatsu