These allow the vehicle to weigh only 437 kg, half of the weight of a conventional electric vehicle. Called the PU-PA EV (as in “pupa electric vehicle,” a reference to metamorphosis) the study shows Teijin’s vision of what a production vehicle will be like in five to ten years.
The PU-PA EV offers a top speed of 60 km/h (37.5 mph) and a driving range of 100 km (62 miles). Its body has been built using a carbon fiber composite material, while its windows use a polycarbonate resin that absorbs heat and only weighs half as much as glass. The vehicles’ modularized parts are made with single-piece molding, reducing the total number of parts to around 20. The vehicle has a reduced impact on the environment as it uses a wide variety of eco materials.
The EV’s interior uses bio-derived polyester for multiple components, such as seats, floor mats and others and offers a multi device communication interface.
The concept is being displayed at the Teijin Mirai Studio, a showroom situated next to Teijin’s Tokyo headquarters. The company uses the location to showcase its innovative materials and technologies.
The PU-PA EV is part of the group’s Mobility Business Project, a department that was established in April 2009 and focuses on the development of materials and technologies for lightweight, hybrid and electric vehicles..
The Teijin Group has a vast activity, covering four sectors: automobiles & aircrafts, information & electronics, healthcare and environment & technology.
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