Z Visitor : Nissan 350Z (Fairlady Z)

did a 'for fun' shoot for a visiting friend and put together a simple montage.

See a drive review on this car's successor, the 370Z, HERE

Speaking English : The Official Nissan GT-R (R35)

With the official car finally in at the local Nissan distributor's showroom, GT-R (R35) owners can finally enjoy a complete experience with the car's English interface. (previously, owners of PI GT-Rs were stumped by the Japanese interface.)



At just under S$300k, Tan Chong's GT-R offers full service support from the NHPC (Nissan High Performance Centre), English interface and a high OMV.



With modern cars featuring more complex mechanicals and electronics, having the equipment and special tools is only one part of the equation => a certain degree of familiarity and knowledge is necessary as well, as opposed to a 'trial and error' approach.

Newer PI GT-R owners probably currently enjoy adding on go-faster bits (which are inherently simple 'plug-and-play' by nature), but when it comes to troubleshooting, diagnostics, timely spare parts ordering and general support and maintenance work, it could be an entirely different story completely.

But as they say, " different strokes for different folks," so it is entirely understandable that there will be buyers who are willing to pay the slight premium for peace of mind.











Fast Facts : Nissan GT-R (R35)
Engine: 3799cc, 24-valves, V6, twin turbocharged
Maximum power: 485bhp at 6400rpm
Maximum torque: 588Nm at 3200-5200rpm
Transmission: 6-speed Dual Clutch Transmission
0-100km/h: 4.1 seconds
Top Speed: 310km/h
LxBxH: 4650 x 1895 x 1370 mm
Wheelbase: 2780mm
Kerbweight: 1745kg
Agent: Tan Chong Motor Sales, tel.: 6466-7711
Price: approx. S$300k

A Green Chapter - Nissan LEAF EV

I think the main point of this is the fact that the LEAF is the first practical production EV that is closer to a mass-market production vehicle as opposed to the 'production concepts' that so many brands are happy to push out just to be 'first'.

If the notion of EVs is to become a viable proposition, consumers (and we're talking about mass market buyers here who are grounded in reality, (as opposed to the affluent few who attempt to project a 'responsible' image), have to be convinced that such vehicles are practical and affordable as a daily mode of transport.

Since the Leaf is effectively already as close to a production model as can be, this is as 'real' as it's gonna get (especially for those who wonder why it doesn't look more 'concept').

Nissan's EV concepts have already been out in the market for a reasonably long time and while the other brands may still have concept cars or expensive 'production' models, the Leaf is intended to showcase a vehicle that is already a production reality.

Press Release
---------------------
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today unveiled Nissan LEAF, the world's first affordable, zero-emission car. Designed specifically for a lithium-ion battery-powered chassis, Nissan LEAF is a medium-size hatchback that comfortably seats five adults and has a range of more than 160km (100 miles) to satisfy real-world consumer requirements.



NISSAN LEAF

Slated for launch in late 2010 in Japan, the United States, and Europe, Nissan LEAF ushers in a new era of mobility - the zero-emission era. The car is the embodiment of Nissan's radical, transformative vision for the future and the culmination of decades of investment and research.

"Nissan LEAF is a tremendous accomplishment - one in which all Nissan employees can take great pride," said Nissan President and CEO Carlos Ghosn. "We have been working tirelessly to make this day a reality - the unveiling of a real-world car that has zero - not simply reduced - emissions. It's the first step in what is sure to be an exciting journey - for people all over the world, for Nissan and for the industry."

Key characteristics of the LEAF include:

1) Zero-emission power train and platform
2) Affordable pricing
3) Distinctive design
4) Real-world range autonomy - 160km (100 miles)
5) Connected Mobility: Advanced intelligent transportation (IT) system

The "LEAF" name is a significant statement about the car itself. Just as leaves purify the air in nature, so Nissan LEAF purifies mobility by taking emissions out of the driving experience. Pricing details will be announced closer to start of sales in late 2010; however, the company expects the car to be competitively priced in the range of a well-equipped C-segment vehicle. Additionally, Nissan LEAF is expected to qualify for an array of significant local, regional and national tax breaks and incentives in markets around the world. As an added benefit, because the vehicle has less mechanical complexity than a traditional gasoline-powered car, Nissan LEAF is designed to be friendly to the wallet as well as to the environment.

ZERO-EMISSION MOBILITY
Nissan LEAF is powered by laminated compact lithium-ion batteries, which generate power output of over 90kW, while its electric motor delivers 80kW/280Nm. This ensures a highly responsive, fun-to-drive experience that is in keeping with what consumers have come to expect from traditional, gasoline-powered automobiles.

Unlike internal-combustion engine (ICE) equipped vehicles, Nissan LEAF's power train has no tail pipe, and thus no emission of CO2 or other greenhouse gases. A combination of Nissan LEAF's regenerative braking system and innovative lithium-ion battery packs enables the car to deliver a driving range of more than 160km (100 miles) on one full charge*. (*US LA4 mode)

Extensive consumer research demonstrates that this range satisfies the daily driving requirements of more than 70% of the world's consumers who drive cars.

And, Nissan's approach makes charging easy and convenient. Nissan LEAF can be charged up to 80% of its full capacity in just under 30 minutes with a quick charger. Charging at home through a 200V outlet is estimated to take approximately eight hours - ample time to enable an overnight refresh for consumer and car alike.

REAL-WORLD CAR
The engineers and designers behind Nissan LEAF worked to create a competitively priced real-world car that would enable Nissan to lead mobility into the zero-emission era. To ensure comfort, spaciousness and cargo capacity, Nissan LEAF employs a completely new chassis and body layout.

"Our car had to be the world's first, medium-size, practical EV that motorists could afford and would want to use every day. And that's what we've created. The styling will identify not only Nissan LEAF but also the owner as a participant in the new era of zero-emission mobility," said Masato INOUE, Product Chief Designer.

DISTINCTIVE DESIGN
Even the smallest details can yield tremendous effect.

Nissan LEAF's frontal styling is characterized by a sharp, upright V-shaped design featuring long, up-slanting light-emitting diode (LED) headlights that employ a blue internal reflective design that announces, "This car is special."

(charging indicators)

But the headlights do more than make a statement. They are also designed to cleverly split and redirect airflow away from the door mirrors, thus reducing wind noise and drag. And, the headlights provide yet one more benefit in that they consume just 10 percent of the electricity of conventional lamps, which helps Nissan LEAF to achieve its world-class range autonomy.

Through bright trim colors inside, Nissan LEAF creates a pleasing and stylish cabin environment. An environmentally friendly "blue earth" color theme originates from the Aqua Globe body color of Nissan LEAF's introductory model. This theme is carried into the interior through blue dashboard highlights and instrument illumination.

CONNECTED MOBILITY IT SYSTEM
Nissan LEAF employs an exclusive advanced IT system. Connected to a global data center, the system can provide support, information, and entertainment for drivers 24 hours a day.

The dash-mounted monitor displays Nissan LEAF's remaining power - or "reachable area" - in addition to showing a selection of nearby charging stations.

Another state-of-the-art feature is the ability to use mobile phones to turn on air-conditioning and set charging functions - even when Nissan LEAF is powered down. An on-board remote-controlled timer can also be pre-programmed to recharge batteries.

"The IT system is a critical advantage," says Tooru ABE, Chief Product Specialist. "We wanted this vehicle to be a partner for the driver and an enhancement for the passengers. We also wanted this vehicle to help create a zero-emission community, and these IT features will help make that possible."

HOLISTIC APPROACH TO ZERO-EMISSION MOBILITY AND ECO-FRIENDLY INNOVATION
Nissan LEAF is a critical first step in establishing the era of zero-emission mobility; however, Nissan recognizes that internal-combustion engine (ICE) technologies will play a vital role in global transportation for decades to come. Because of this, Nissan is implementing its zero-emission vision through a holistic approach, which provides consumers a comprehensive range of eco-friendly technologies from which to choose.

For some consumers, Nissan LEAF will be the perfect match, and the only car they will ever need. For others, Nissan LEAF will be a logical addition to the family fleet - the optimal choice for the daily commute, for example.

While zero-emission is the ultimate goal, the company is committed to ongoing innovation in eco-friendly technologies that increase efficiency and reduce emissions. As a result, Nissan offers a comprehensive suite of automotive technologies, including CVT, Idle Stop, HEV, Clean Diesel, and ongoing research and investment in FCV technology.

WORLDWIDE PARTNERS
Zero-emission mobility programs under the banner of the Renault-Nissan Alliance include partnerships with countries such as the UK and Portugal, local governments in the Japan and the USA, and other sectors, for a total of nearly 30 partnerships worldwide.

In these partnerships major efforts focus on three areas:

1) Development of a comprehensive charging infrastructure through public and private investment,
2) Incentives and subsidies from local, regional, and national governments, and
3) Public education on the individual and societal benefits of zero-emissions mobility.

ZERO-EMISSION VEHICLE PRODUCTION
Nissan LEAF is the first in the company's forthcoming line of EVs and is a major milestone in the realization of the Renault-Nissan Alliance's vision for zero-emission mobility. The first of Nissan's EV's will be manufactured at Oppama, Japan, with additional capacity planned for Smyrna, Tennessee, USA. Meanwhile, lithium-ion batteries are being produced in Zama, Japan, with additional capacity planned for the USA, the UK and Portugal, and other sites for investment are under study around the world.

ABOUT NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. is a global automotive company with vehicle sales of 3.411 million in 2008. Nissan is present in all major auto markets worldwide, selling a comprehensive range of cars, pickup trucks, SUVs, and light commerical vehicles.

NISSAN BLUE CITIZENSHIP
Nissan is committed to making a better world through its commitment to corporate social responsibility. This includes programs that focus on technological innovations that focus on people and care for the planet. Our vision for zero-emission mobility is an outgrowth of our CSR approach, which we call Blue Citizenship. Together, we are working with our Alliance partner, Renault, to make a better world through zero-emission mobility.

All pictures courtesy Nissan Media

Nissan EV (Electric Vehicle): Teaser

In advance of the EV's official unveiling during the opening of Nissan's new Yokohama HQ, (Nissan will shift from Ginza in Tokyo to its new premises) on 2nd August 2009, 1030am, we enjoy some tantalising styling details of the brand's production EV on this purpose-built site.

http://www.nissan-zeroemission.com/

NISMO showdown: JDM S-Tune vs. USDM

well, i'll let the pictures speak for themselves:
(Photo Credit: 370zblog, Nissan North America, NML)

JDM:
http://www.nissan.co.jp/OPTIONAL-PARTS/NISMO/

USDM:
http://www.nissanusa.com/microsite/nismo/?intcmp=NismoZ.Promo.ZCoupe.Home.P2

Front
JDM S-Tune:


USDM NISMO 370Z:


The fangs are 'gone' with the USDM version, which achieves a cleaner look for those who didn't quite appreciate the 370Z's 'toothy' look.

Back:
JDM S-Tune:


USDM NISMO 370Z:


SIDE:
JDM:


USDM:


Close-up of JDM S-Tune rims:


Close-up of the Nismo USA rims:


USDM NISMO Gauges:


I think it's interesting that NNA SVG (Specialty Vehicles Group) is at least attempting to build up the NISMO brand into a strong contender that (hopefully) can rival the kind of appeal Mugen has achieved amongst the Honda owners.

The Z looks continue to polarise opinion, but it's heartening to note that NNA has collaborated with Autech to create a look that addresses some of the points of contention, one being the 'fangs' that were retained on the JDM S-Tune package and the rather old-school alloy design of the S-Tune.

Apart from chassis/suspension upgrades, the USDM Nismo 370Z is available as a complete car and features close ratio 6spd M/T transmission and ECU revisions to further boost engine output numbers to 350bhp and 374Nm.

More 370Z here:
http://m0t0rhead.blogspot.com/2009/03/nissan-370z-at.html


http://m0t0rhead.blogspot.com/2009/03/blog-post.html

Simple as A, B,... Z : Nissan 370Z 6M/T with SynchroRev Match

When us folks here at m0t0rhead first heard about the new Nissan 370Z's SynchroRev Match system, the first impression was 'gimmick'.

But seeing as the A/T 370Z seriously impressed with its sharp reflexes and agile chassis (unlike the 350Z), we decided to keep an open mind for the SynchroRev Match. First thing to note is, you can turn it off (for those automotive purists). Hold it down for a couple of seconds and it goes off.



You get a neat little display to indicate the current gear engaged. The 'S' tells the driver that SynchroRev Match is engaged (or was it the other way around, I don't remember, but that's beside the point lol).

Moving off, the clutch has a nice weight to it, yet isn't thighmaster heavy, so it's a doodle to drive even in start-stop traffic.

Next surprise is the quality of the gear-shifts: well-oiled precise feel that is yet satisfyingly notchy in operation. Despite our previous misgivings, SynchroRev Match works rather unobtrusively in the background, by discreetly 'blipping' the throttle as you're downshifting, either for a corner, or to come to a complete stop at the junction or traffic light.



Easy even for girls to manage! ;)

The enthusiasts will inadvertently find the workings of the SynchroRev Match system a chore and will opt to blip and heel-toe downshift to their heart's content.

However, an interesting development to this new technology was for drivers who previously owned a long string of automatic cars to actually consider the 370Z 6M/T with SynchroRev Match system due to how smooth it made their driving!

It wan't until the system was disengaged that they realised how much it was helping...

Sitting Pretty : Recaro at Tokyo Auto Salon 2009

At 2009's TAS (Tokyo Auto Salon), Recaro's chic booth was a good example of the premium upmarket direction the brand is heading towards, which places an emphasis on individual customisation versus the usual off-the-rack applications.

This was the sight that greeted visitors to the Recaro booth; an evolution of the sports seat through the years, starting with the first 'bucket' seat for Porsche to today's Sportster.



Black and Greys were the dominant themes, but vibrant splashes of colours could be appreciated in the experimental colour/material/stitch combinations that adorned part of the Sportster collection, as well as the stark Red that clad the latest SR-7 and some of its 'dead' bucket seat collection.



Compared to the haphazard manner in which other brands have chosen to display their wares, there is some order to Recaro's configuration, with the sports bucket seats positioned in the inner quarter, while the outer quarter showcased the reclining seats, which included seats like the Magnifica, SP-X, Sportster, Sport JC, SR-6, as well as the latest SR-7 and a 'hybrid' c/f reclining seat that was created for the Nissan GT-R Spec V.



Picture above best illustrates the difference between the TS-G (Red) and the RS-G (Blue-black). The TS-G has a pronounced curved back whereas the RS-G has a straight back.


L-R: SP-X, Sport-JC, Sportster, Sportster (experimental), Sportster (experimental)

Visitors were more than welcome to plonk their behinds into the seats on display and there was a helpful information stand next to every seat for the show-goers to read off as they were comfortably seated.



The SR-7 is the latest seat to join the Recaro collection of reclining seats, although these are still pre-production examples. Some people mistakenly think this is intended to succeed the SR-6, but as of last month, the SR-7 was and is intended to be a replacement to the vintage SR-4 (which is still popular among many buyers even today).

Unlike the rather sharp-edged styling SR-6 or even the Ninja Turtle inspired SR-11 (Evo X seat), the SR-7 takes a leaf from the past and boasts gorgeous organic contours that are intended to resemble the voluptuous feminine form.





These are the standard seats found in the Nissan GT-R Spec V (Yes for the last time it's Spec V, not V-Spec. Developed specially for Nissan, this is another iteration of the reclining carbon-fibre seat that was available as a Nismo Clubsport upgrade for the standard GT-R. Note the different embroidery: Spec V seats say 'GT-R', while the Nismo Clubsport seat upgrades say 'Nismo' and have that 'crotch support' padding.

V for Vendetta : Nissan GT-R Spec V

Well, after the flurry of rumours and speculation, the Spec V finally made its appearance in the week of Tokyo Auto Salon 2009... BUT it did not make it to the Makuhari Messe, where TAS was held. Instead 2 cars sat rather quietly at Nissan's 2 Ginza showrooms (and another 2 in Nagoya and Fukuoka), while the GT-R Nismo Clubsport Package and the assortment of Z cars stole the limelight at the Auto Salon.

(Nismo Clubsport GT-R for comparison)

And for the R35, it's now referred to as Spec V, rather than V Spec, which would have been more familiar to devotees of Godzilla. Well you get lots of delicious dry carbon bits (higher rear wing, front grille and front brake ducts),

... as well as a Recaro OE reclinable c/f seat that is identical to the one in the Nismo Clubsport, albeit with an embossed 'GT-R' rather than 'Nismo' badge:

Here is a back-shot of the c/f reclinable seat (nissan press room):

One of the special colours for the new Spec V is Ultimate Black Pearl, which actually comes across more as Purple. However, it is dependent on the kind of light one views it in.

To save even more weight, the Spec V ditches its two rear seats,

... has two c/f reclinable Recaro OE front seats vs. the really heavy ones in the standard/black/premium editions. An Overboost function has been integrated into the steering wheel that 'boosts' mid-range torque for about 80 seconds when it's engaged (Photo from Nissan Press Room).

Great news for track-day enthusiasts are the carbon ceramic brakes (front 6-pot) that come on the Spec V, a first for a Nissan production car. Although brake-disc diameter has grown in size, it's actually lighter compared to the regular items.

Personally, I'm not so sure about the Spec V.

As much as i've been waiting for the Spec V to be launched, actually seeing it in person was quite an underwhelming experience. For starters, the tail-pipes, Ultimate Black Pearl 'special colour' and the seemingly hastily tacked-on 'Spec V' tag don't quite do it for me.

My ideal GT-R (from factory) would be a mix and match of parts and styling bits from the Spec V and the Nismo Clubsport package with the power hikes of a MY09 car. And another question, why wasnt the Spec V displayed at the Auto Salon where it could have basked in the adulation it deserves?

In any case, the GT-R Spec V is certainly back with a vengeance!

For more equipment details:

http://www2.nissan.co.jp/GT-R/SPECV/