deltawing four-seater concept

DeltaWing Technologies, the company behind the radical shape of the Nissan DeltaWing experimental racecar, has come up with a rendering of a street-legal vehicle based on its novel architecture. The two-door, four-seater incorporates the same narrow-track front and wide-rear design as seen on the racer (and Nissan Zeod RC), but has a significantly bulked up cabin to accomodate passengers.

A rear-engine layout places the centre of gravity far to the rear, resulting in significantly less weight on the front axles, reducing rolling resistance and increasing efficiency. As for handling, it promises to be agile, as proven by the DeltaWing racer in competition.

Performance-wise, with a small displacement four-cylinder engine producing between 85 and 110 hp in place, the car is claimed to be able to offer a 0-100 km/h time of around six seconds, a 210 km/h top speed and a 30 km per litre (70 mpg) fuel consumption.

The American company is using the road-going shape to pitch its vehicle architecture to OEMs, suggesting that adoption of that design route would see a car 35% lighter, requires 35% less horsepower and consume 35% less fuel than a traditional design. Wonder if there'll be any takers.