2007 I2B Concept Reus

(from I2B Concept Press Release)  The Reus is a two seated city car. It is designed mainly for city driving and short trips to country side or golf course. A comfort and stable ride is one of the main factors for pleasure ride. With its compact size ( width - 1800 mm, length 3500 mm, height 1000 mm) the car is very maneuverable and comfortable in city conditions. The low suspension and low center of gravity gives us an extreme stability in corners when we want to feel some adrenaline rush.

The central mounted engine gives a perfect balance between front and rear axle. A high torque in low RPM delivered by the propulsion system promotes an extreme acceleration.

The low profile of the car lowers the wind resistant that gives us fuel economy and higher high-speed. A specially designed rear end combined with the aerodynamic shape of the body will give us the down force to keep the car stable on the road even at very high speeds.

The construction of the body is designed for maximum strength with minimum mass. A special aluminum space frame is placed over the body and also is used like a roll cage to protect the passenger in extreme conditions. The composite panels cover the entire body to reduce the mass of construction without compromise of strength. The entire body is made from very few details which will reduce the assembly time and will simplify the process. A possibility to use almost only recycled materials will improve the efficiency of the car.

The other factor which will improve the Reus is the fact that the car is driven mainly by electric power. We all know how important is to use a restorable energy sources as much as possible. The propulsion system contains a four cylinder small size bio diesel engine combined with high power electric motor which also is used like generator when the car goes down hills or is in "Charge mode", when we are in place where is no access to the electric network. Both the bio diesel engine and the electric motor can run together to produce high torque when is needed , or to be separated or skipped when this is possible. The extra electromagnetic brakes are installed on all wheels and are used to transform the braking energy into electric and charge the batteries. Using the electromagnetic brakes to stop quick from high speed also gives the advantage of smooth braking and saves resource of the conventional brake system which is used only at low speed.

The highly efficient triple head lights provide a good visibility in night or in extreme whether conditions. The rear lights design makes the car to have individual look on the road. Small cameras are mounted into side view mirrors of the car and at top of the car. A big front wind shield also increases visibility.

Project Reus is open and can be brought to life with certain help by any profit or non-profit individuals or organizations.