2007 Mazda Taiki Concept

One of the most beautiful concept cars ever devised, the Mazda Taiki will always look futuristic! Concepts are supposed to push the boundaries both stylistically and technically, but even some of the most forward-thinking examples seem rather conventional next to the Mazda Taiki, which looked nothing less than stunning when it was unveiled in Tokyo late in 2007 (and shown at the 2008 Australian International Motor Show).

Taiki was the fourth concept from an acclaimed series of design studies unveiled by Mazda (previous concepts in the series were named Nagare, Ryuga, and Hakaze). It is an exercise in advanced aerodynamics that hints at a future generation of more sustainable sports cars. It is designed, according to Mazda, to “visually express the flow of air” and takes inspiration from the shape of the traditional flowing robes that enable a celestial maiden to fly in Japanese legend.

The dramatic taper of the rear bodywork and outrigger-style rear wheels combine to reduce the car’s aerodynamic drag coefficient to just 0.25, thereby improving fuel economy. In addition, a kick-up of the car’s underside at the rear results in zero aerodynamic lift, improving high-speed stability.

Taiki is powered by Mazda’s next-generation Renisis (rotary 16X engine) which features a longer stroke and larger displacement of 1600cc (800cc x 2) to raise thermal efficiency and boost torque at all engine speeds. A new direct injection system and aluminum side housing enhance the rotary engine’s traditional merits of lightweight and compact size.

Mazda’s designers say the Taiki’s interior is inspired by traditional Japanese carp-shaped streamers and, like the exterior, is designed to convey the sense of airflow. Among its innovative features are streams of red light, which flow past either side of the driver to visually depict leaps in engine revs.