2013 Ken Okuyama Design Kode9
Specifications:
- Model:
- Okuyama
- Engine:
- inline-4
- Horsepower @ RPM:
- 370
- Displacement:
- 2.0 L
- Top Speed:
- 155 mph (Est.)
The
first thing that crossed our minds when we saw Kode9 by Ken Okuyama
Design was the [Speed Racer] movie. Ken Okuyama is a well known car
designer from Japan who has, in the past, headed the design team at
Pininfarina. His famous works include the Ferrari Enzo and Maserati Quattroporte . Well, he also loves building special one-offs, and the Kode9 was one such concept that was showcased at this year’s Tokyo Motor Show .
The
influence of Italian automotive design is evident in Ken’s work, and
the Kode9 is an example of that inspiration. The exterior design of the
Kode9 can be related to some classic sports car as well as modern concepts .
Despite the similarities, the Kode9 sits as a uniquely different design
form and a rather attractive one, to say the least. Most of the parts
used have been made using modern technologies like 3D printing and
carbon fiber.
Exterior
Clearly, the exterior of the Kode9 is influenced by the Alfa Romeo Disco Volante , and the rear wing and front fascia can be traced back to the Le Mans winning Jaguar
D-Type. The wide wheel arches have also been a feature on past Alfa
Romeos and, of course, Jaguars. The front grille opening sits on an
elongated snout that sits low and wide. Short overhangs, large wheels
and wide haunches clearly suggest that this car wants it to be noticed.
Move towards the rear and it is again all about a retro-modern design.
Exterior shotsInterior
Staying
true to its sporty theme, the interior is pretty basic. The minimalist
dashboard sits at a right angle with the car floor and seems like a
single carbon-fiber piece, wrapped partly in suede. Apart from two A/C
vents on either sides of the dashboard and a bank of vertical switches
on the center console, the rest of it consists of a the instrument
binnacle with four dials.
The rest of the interior, along with the
seats, is covered in even more retro, quilted leather. The bare
gear-shift linkage adds a nice touch. We also like the sports
chronograph a-la Porsche .
Drivetrain
The
maker of the engine that powers the Kode9 has not been disclosed, but
we do know that the car uses a 370-horsepower, in-line four-cylinder
engine with a 2.0-liter displacement. The motor is boosted by a HKS
Supercharger, which results in the overall high output. The car was
built using lightweight materials, like carbon fiber, so it only weighs
890 kg (1,962 pounds). This low weight means that we can expect some
brisk 0-to-60 mph acceleration times.
Suspension and Brakes
The
makers promise a bespoke setup with individually adjustable suspension
components. The Kode9 is designed to be a "part race car, part sports
car", according to the press release, hence the complex and
fully-adjustable suspension.
Brakes consist of four-pot Akebono
calipers all-around. Ken Okuyama "guarantees unlimited fun behind the
wheel", thanks to some Akebono stopping power.
KEN OKUYAMA DESIGN The 43rd Tokyo Motor Show 2013
At
the Tokyo Motor Show today, Ken Okuyama Design unveiled two world
premieres, the ’kode9’ sports coupe and the ’kode7 Clubman,’ which is a
lightweight, spartan version of our current k.o7 model.
Inspired
by legendary race cars from 1963 to 1973, the kode9 is a bold new
concept that marries the best of 20th Century automotive design with
21st Century technology. TAG Heuer Carrera CMC kode9 Limited and Boston
Bag designed by Ken Okuyama will be onboard the car.
Also
occupying a lead role on stage are the ’kode7 Exclusive’, which is a
hand - built, open - top sports car and the robot - like Yanmar Concept
Advanced Tractor.
In keeping with our theme for a more fulfilling
and stylish ’adult car lifestyle,’ we will also be exhibiting the
company’s latest furniture, tableware and eyewear, as well as limited
edition wristwatches and bags created from a collaboration with TAG
Heuer.
kode9
Part race car, part sports car, the kode9 is a
concept that employs stunning but simple proportions and a driving
experience to rival some of today’s greatest sports cars. "This is my
message to today’s car industry which seems stuck in a rut of overly
complicated lines and styling based on the lowest - common -
denominator," says Okuyama.
This street - legal clubman racer
incorporates the central section of a hydro - aluminum chassis, but with
front and rear chassis sections specially designed and unique to this
car in -. house developed wet carbon components, manufacturing
technology using the latest 3D printers, Yamazaki Mazak’s precision CNC
cutting technology and the latest aerodynamic trends in a package that
tips the scales at just 890 kgs.
Powered by a Japan - sourced 2.0 -
liter, 4 - cylinder engine with HKS supercharger, the kode9 generates
an impressive 370 hp. All suspension components are unique to this .
coupe together with its fully adjustable suspension setup And with
specially fitted 4 - pot Akebono brake calipers, the kode9 guarantees
unlimited fun behind the wheel.
kode7 Clubman
Four Created
to enjoy track day events and sports driving, the kode7 Clubman is a
simplified version of the kode7 that has been further lightened to
optimize on - road dynamics. Priced from a more reasonable 8.5 million
yen for the base 1.6 - liter model, the Clubman employs a movable front
cowl and retractable headlights while doing away with driver comforts to
enhance its behind the wheel thrills To achieve its driver - focused
goal of creating a lightweight, attractively priced roadster, some 50%
of the parts used in its construction were humed from the latest 3D
printer. The model on display is powered by a 250 hp 1.6 litre 4 -
cylinder engine.
kode7 Exclusive
Inheriting the basic
architecture of the ’k.o7’ sports car which debuted at the 2008 Geneva
Motor Show, the revised and newly named ’kode7 Exclusive’ is a hand -
built, open -. top sports car that can be modified to the specifications
of each owner Boasting short front and rear overhangs, the coupe
incorporates lightweight aluminum and carbon fiber bodywork. With its
modern, timeless silhouette and sharp, sporty overtones, the kode7
delivers motorcycle - like handling and performance from a 230 hp 2.0
liter 4 -. Cylinder engine The kode7 Exclusive may be ordered at a price
starting from 25 million yen.
Yanmar Y - Concept YT01 Advanced Tractor
As
part of its Carrozzeria activities, Ken Okuyama Design has teamed up
with Yanmar to create the Advanced Tractor In addition to its industry -
leading stylized design, this tractor boasts superb all - around
visibility, while delivering operators a comfortable, yet sturdy
construction that can work safely for long hours in the fields. It also
incorporates an advanced GPS satnav system that will eventually enable
it to work autonomously thus improving yields.
Seven Ken Okuyama biography :
Industrial Designer / CEO, KEN OKUYAMA DESIGN
Born
in Yamagata Japan, 1959. Ken has worked as a Chief Designer for General
Motors, a Senior Designer for Porsche AG, and a Design Director for
Pininfarina SpA, being responsible for Ferrari Enzo, Maserati
Quattroporte and many cars. He is also known for numerous products such
as motorcycles, furniture, robots and architecture. In 2007, KEN OKUYAMA
DESIGN was founded providing business consultancy to many companies.
Ken also produces cars, eyewear, interior products under his original
brand. He is currently a visiting professor at several universities and
also publishes many books