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Global Concepts (Part 2)
Isuzu Kai
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Isuzu describes its Kai concept vehicle as an RV-though not a recreational vehicle as the common Japanese parlance has it, but rather a "revolutionary vehicle." The Japanese word kai means "return to the beginning," or "progress through repeated efforts," according to Isuzu. The latter may apply to the vehicle's flamboyant and wild styling, which has a large bit of Simon Cox (now a senior design executive with GM) about it. The 4-m (13-ft) long vehicle has minimal overhangs and a long 2700-mm (106-in) wheelbase. It is powered by Isuzu's new Dd series dual-overhead-camshaft, 24-valve, common-rail direct-injection V6 diesel, which in its production form will be offered in 2.5- and 3.0-L displacements. The lightweight and compact V6 readily fits transversely in the engine bay of a mid-to-large passenger car, according to Isuzu. In the Kai, all wheels are driven by an electronically controlled torque split/transfer system by Borg Warner. The chassis features all independent suspension.
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