Named after the Japanese word for “immersed”, the Mazda Shinshi concept aims to do just that! A stark contrast to the current autonomous movement, it’s designed around the driver to create the sense of the vehicle being an extension of the body.
Placed at the center of the vehicle, both driver and passenger will experience an exhilarating, racing-style sensation. This also has its technical advantages including better weight distribution, panoramic vision, and enhanced feedback.
As far as looks go, it’s gotta be the sexiest Mazda out there! Thanks to the centered driving position, it sports an extremely narrow, jet-like cabin. The flared front half has all the trimmings of a modern supercar but the open rear wheels and jutting tail are reminiscent of Formula One. Inside, the F1 attitude continues with a tightly enclosed yet highly visible cockpit and wide-handled, dashboard-integrated steering wheel.
The powertrain consists of 4 in-wheel electric motors fed by a high charge/discharge rating supercapacitor, accompanied by a rotary bio-fueled engine that serves only as a range extender for the main battery. This setting allows the Shinshi to have enough clean energy for the cities and plenty of power for fun on the racetrack without running out of battery.
Designer: Miguel Angel Bahri