FUTURE TECHNOLOGY

Chess, Cell-Car Concept

2009-01-10T00:22:00.000-08:00

Chess is a cell-car concept where passengers are put in a cell above a platform containing the engine and wheels. The cell can move over the platform in any direction. If a sensor, placed in the platform, detects a possible crash, the passenger-cell is moved away from the expected impact area. This results in more (deformable) distance between impact and passengers, thus higher survival-chances. Depending on position, speed, and place of impact, the passenger-cell moves to the most optimal position to protect the occupants.

At a side-impact crash, the doorstep moves out to create an extra buffer, this way, the passengers are positioned in the most possible protected area.

Designer : Thijs van der Zanden & Frans Hegge

Embryo Car Concept

2009-01-09T23:46:00.000-08:00

With expanding cities and dearth of parking spaces, more and more emphasis is being given to ecological vehicles. The vehicles are designed on aspects such as space and security elements. Goran Marinkovic has come out with what he calls Concept Embryo, a two-seater urban vehicle.

Concept Car Embryo is powered by fuel cells which uses clean fuels like hydrogen. It is completely ecological as it is made of recyclable aluminum and silicon materials used mostly for interior elements. Design wise, it looks like an organism, however safety wise too, it derives the same thought. Soft material is used for exterior while inside it has a protective layer to absorb the impact and keep the passengers safe. The safety system also acts as a communicating system for information like speed, distance etc. and if necessary auto pilot also reacts to avoid possible accidents. With all these safety and design features it surely is a winner in robotic era.

Designer : Goran Marinkovic

The Solar Powered COM-BAT Spy Plane

2008-12-19T06:54:00.000-08:00

In this season of specters and spooks, what could be scarier than a steel-winged robotic spy plane shaped like a bat? The aptly named COM-BATis a six-inch surveillance device that is powered by solar, wind, and vibrations. The concept was conceived by the US military as a means to gather real-time data for soldiers, and the Army has awarded the University of Michigan College of Engineering a five year $10-million dollar grant to develop it.

The grant will establish the University of Michigan Center for Objective Microelectronics and Biomimetic Advanced Technology, called COM-BAT for short. The center will focus upon developing sensors, communication tools, and batteries for “the bat”.

Some concepts that they are working on include tiny cameras for stereo vision, an array of mini-microphones capable of tracking sounds from different directions, and small detectors for nuclear radiation and poisonous gases. The design will also feature “quantum dot solar cells” that are twice as effective as current photovoltaics, in addition to an autonomous navigation system that is 1,000 times smaller than current systems.

Car Concept from Toyota : Hi-CT Hybrid Car

2008-12-19T06:39:00.000-08:00

Toyota Hi-CT hybrid concept car offers an enjoyable vehicle with weird looking design, but according to Toyota’s team of young Japanese and European designers, this is the reflection of what a cool and great vehicle should look like. The idea behind this hybrid concept car is the theme of “unbalanced”, creating something that make people stop and take a good look.

The Hi-CT is a plug-in hybrid with a 1.5L motor and uses lithium-ion batteries, which are located underneath the floor of the vehicle in order to maximize the interior space of the car. While it looks quite boxy and big, it is in fact quite small. The entire vehicle is 3.3 meters long, 1.6 meters wide and 1.7 meters high. It is, effectively, a cube on wheels. Due to the tiny size, it can only carry two persons. However, being a 'lifestyle' car, there's enough space inside it for everything that an active user or two could need. The rear trunk can be modified so that surfboards, bicycles and camping equipment can be carried around for those days where you need to get out to nature.

The interior looks futuristic, I don’t really care anymore about the outside look. Those young designers surely think outside the box when they designed this car.

Futuristic Car Concept from Honda : Combination of Marine, Jet, Robotic, and Automotive

2008-12-19T06:18:00.000-08:00

Here comes something beyond our imagination. The Great Race 2025 is a futuristic concept car created by Honda. This design is surely inspired by some dragon games because the design looks like an unbelievable car with dragon wings that can be used to fight and travel any kind of track. The concept is designed to fulfill all the demands of a great race in 2025 which will be a toughest race ever devised. The vehicle’s sonar sensors are smart enough to detect the changes in speed, terrain and altitude. If you have enough credit to afford this vehicle, then you must go for it.

Text from designer :
In 1908, 17 men dared to take on the “toughest race ever devised.” Spanning six months, the Great Race brought these men over 22,000 miles, through three continents and around the world. 117 years later, the Great Race of 2025 is tougher than ever.

Competitors must circumnavigate the globe in 24 hours on land through the United States, by sea through Asia and by air over Europe.

The vehicle’s sonar/echolocation sensors are able to detect changes in speed, terrain, and altitude, allowing it to switch to any configuration. With expertise in automotive, marine, robotics, and jet technologies already in place, Honda possesses a distinct, competitive advantage over its rivals, allowing it to lead in the evolution of motorsports in the 21st century.

Designer : Franco Corral

Honda FC Future Sports Car with V Flow Fuel Cell Technology

2008-12-19T05:57:00.000-08:00

The new FC Sport fuel based car from Honda was recently displayed at the LA Auto Show is one traffic stopper. The designers have taken into their advantage the flexibility which is extended by the fuel cell powertrain as it is placed on the back of the driver. It’s a 3-seater with the styling of sports car major McLaren F1 vehicle, where in the driver is in the middle with passenger seats on side and back. The concept car is right now under study and testing to understand the full utility of the product. Though there may be a possibility of Honda releasing a full fledged version for commercial use.

The FC Sport emphasizes the design flexibility and potential of Honda’s V Flow fuel cell technology – already deployed in the Honda FCX Clarity sedan – and reconfigures it into a lightweight sports car design with an ultra-low center of gravity, powerful electric motor performance and zero-emissions. The design study concept is inspired by supercar levels of performance through low weight and a high-performance, electrically driven fuel cell powertrain.

“The Honda FC Sport explores how to satisfy automotive performance enthusiasts in a world beyond petroleum,” said Dan Bonawitz, vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “People who love sports cars will still have a reason to love in a hydrogen-powered future.”

The high-output Honda fuel cell powertrain and a sleek, aerodynamic body contribute to the vehicle’s performance potential. A modular approach to fuel cell component packaging and the electric drivetrain contribute to the FC Sport’s low center of gravity with the majority of vehicle mass distributed between the axles, creating the balanced weight distribution sought after in sports cars.

The ideal placement of the Honda V-Flow fuel cell stack and related components demonstrates the benefits of a platform-specific, hydrogen-powered fuel cell powertrain. The FC Sport is configured to accommodate a custom-formed high-power fuel cell stack, located between the rear seats, and a battery pack placed low in the middle of the vehicle. The electric motor resides just forward of the rear axle. Two fuel storage tanks, visible from above, are located above the rear axle.

The optimal placement of fuel cell components for performance also allows for a relatively large passenger cabin by conventional supercar standards with enough space for three seating positions. The interior layout focuses primarily on the driver with a racecar-like center driving position. The enclosed canopy opens upward from the rear to allow for entry and exit. Two rear passenger seats flank the driver’s left and right side.

The sleek, low-profile body is designed to convey a high-technology appearance with sculpting that combines angular shapes in the front of the vehicle that taper into geometric, hex forms in the rear. The rear hex forms house cooling radiators for the fuel cell. Formula 1-style barge boards behind the front wheels enhance high speed aerodynamics and convey the vehicle’s racing pedigree. The hydrogen storage tanks, visible from the rear deck, showcase the FC Sports fuel cell technology in much the same way that a “naked bike” motorcycle showcases its engineering technology.

The glacier white body color conveys the FC Sport’s clean environmental aspirations while the dark wheels and deeply tinted glass provide a symbolic contrast befitting of the vehicle’s unique combination of clean power and high performance. Green construction techniques further contribute to a reduced carbon footprint. An organic, bio-structure theme is carried through to the body construction where exterior panels are intended to use plant-derived bio-plastics.

The Advanced Design Studio of Honda R&D Americas, in Pasadena, California, developed the FC Sport design study with the primary objective of using existing fuel cell technology as the basis for an ultimate Honda sports car. Designer Jason Wilbur led the design efforts.

Honda R&D Americas, Inc. began its operations in California in 1975 with local market research activities and has steadily grown its capabilities over the past 33 years to include all aspects of new vehicle design and development. Recent development efforts include trend-setting products such as the Honda Pilot, Ridgeline, Element, Civic Coupe and Civic Si.

In 2008, the company opened two new design centers in Southern California: the Acura Design Studio (Torrance), for the research and design of new Acura products; and the Advanced Design Studio (Pasadena), for the exploration and development of advanced design themes for both Honda and Acura.

The company operates 11 major R&D facilities in North America, including a full vehicle development center in Raymond, Ohio, and three design studios in Southern California. Honda R&D designers, engineers and support personnel are engaged in the development of Honda and Acura automobiles, powersports products, and power equipment for North America and global markets. The company’s main centers of operation include the Los Angeles Center (Torrance, California), responsible for market research, concept development and styling design; the Ohio Center (Raymond, Ohio), responsible for complete product development, testing, and support of North American supplier and manufacturing operations; and a dynamic test facility in Cantil, California.

Digital Tactile Watch, Technology for The Blind and The Visually Impaired

2008-12-19T05:11:00.000-08:00

Technology for the blind and the visually impaired has always been half-baked and visually drab; the argument being, where’s the need for visual enhancement when the user is not sartorially qualified! A biased opinion in the ‘eyes’ of many, thus opening up avenues for design enhancement and the incorporation of next-gen features in gadgets developed for the visually challenged. Matthew Wagerfield, in a revolutionary attempt, has created Sentio - a timekeeping device for blind and partially sighted users that exhibits the perfect marriage between avant garde design and cutting-edge tactile technology. Combining the technology of the old and the new, the Sentio features the 7-segment display typically seen on digital alarm clocks and watches.

It makes no sense, though, to use LEDs and other lighting options to display time for the visually impaired. Hence, the Sentio uses a tactile display, whereby each segment rises 1mm above the watch face. This enables blind users to read the time by touching the face as in the case of Braille watches.

The universal format displays time in either hours or minutes depending on the mode selected. With attractive color options and its fashionable appearance, the watch will certainly redefine technology for the blind. The visually impaired have something to cheer about, finally!

Steering Mounted Concept Laptop

2008-10-24T07:22:00.000-07:00

Cario is a concept notebook that has features to make it able to be adjusted on the drivers steering wheel. This is great concept laptop for mobile workers or people who travels a lot by car, and yet still need to access their notebook often. Once this notebook is connected into the cars system, through the notebook the user has easy access to personalize the vehicles environment and settings to their preferences. For save driving, you can use cario notebook as HUD with the projector.

Fighter Sci-Fi Motorcycle

2008-10-23T07:46:00.000-07:00

Here comes an astonishing and sexy design that blends extreme power with crispy simplicity. This advancement has derived from machine which has been engineered and invented for best possible performance. This bike is no less than a dream comes true for anyone having interest in sci-fi and fighter motorcycles. This is the limited edition Fighter Motorcycle with 190 mph of performance. Bike is made up of materials like carbon fiber, titanium and aluminum chassis. While riding this bike, you will have to literally lean forwards. You will surely enjoy your 64″ wheelbase, 27″H seat and integrated braking system ride with many more interesting features. Prepare for $110,000.00 to ride this futuristic motorcycle.

Moonstream : Ultimate Space Lounge

2008-10-23T07:33:00.000-07:00

Moonstream is all about exploring the Moon in an adventurous way. NASA Moonstream concept is a proposal designed by Anthony Sims, a student of Art Center College of Design. This is a heavily vehicle inspired by nature like the defensive shell of a tortoise. The wheels have the capability to move slowly like an insect and are completely adjustable for height and track. From inside, the vehicle is styled to offer a comfortable living space with latest communication technologies. NASA Moonstream concept is the ultimate luxury space lounge which will be completed by year 2020.

Relay : Electric Urban Delivery Vehicle Concept

2008-10-23T07:28:00.000-07:00

Relay is an urban delivery vehicle designed by Tristan Hipps for maximum transport efficiency. It is a zero emission vehicle which is driven by an electric engine. The vehicle is fully covered from all sides and is provided by one main 48 volt battery and one spare 24 volt battery in case the main battery runs out of power. Relay offers a maximum speed of 40mph with clean and bright environment. Though, Relay has all the qualities of a vehicle that promises green future but with the speed of 40pmh, it will surely be considered as a dead vehicle in today’s fast-paced world.

Venturi Volage Electric Roadster

2008-10-23T07:23:00.000-07:00

This can be one of the most incredible cars you might have seen recently. Venturi Volage is a fully electric roadster that boasts 295 horsepower and 171 pound-feet of torque. Volage is indeed a head-turner with plenty of unbelievable features such as Active Wheel Technology that empowers each wheel with a significant amount of additional control over the vehicle. This concept is planned for 2012 but because of the impressive looks who doesn’t want to be the driver and master of this unleashed man made wonder. To sum up, Venturi Volage is a wonderfully crafted speed car concept that definitely deserves success and fame.

Kure : A Unique Dining Table Concept

2008-10-23T07:13:00.000-07:00

“Kure” (also known as ’sphere’ in Turkish) is a futuristic concept table designed in the shape of a flower for your family dinning room. This table is shaped as a sphere when closed and once you open, it can occupy any corner of the house. A light source is fitted in the centre of the table which offers a blue light to the base of the table. This full-fledged dinning table accommodates six dinning chairs which can also be used for some other purpose. Kure is surely a space cushion more favorable for family dinners and aims to bring together the whole family.

Backside Touchscreen Concept : Microsoft LucidTouch

2008-09-19T06:50:00.000-07:00

Touchscreen problem would be your fingers getting in the way of small screen. That is why Microsoft bring the concept of backside touchscreen which allow user to control the device from behind but still being able to see their fingers. Microsoft has shown off Microsoft LucidTouch prototype at the TechFest fair, an internal event highlighting key tech from the company’s 800 research and development staff.

According to the company, the key to making this usable is what it calls pseudo-transparency: by overlaying an image of the user?s hands onto the screen, the illusion of the mobile device itself being semitransparent is created. This pseudo-transparency allows users to accurately acquire targets while not occluding the screen with their fingers and hand.

According to Microsoft in initial studies, results suggest that many users found touching on the back to be preferable to touching on the front, due to reduced occlusion, higher precision, and the ability to make multi-finger input.

Actually I do have a problem with touchscreen, I really hate about how many of my finger prints are left on the screen. Microsoft LucidTouch might not solve that problem since this is still a touchscreen, but at least it will reduce the finger prints on my screen problem.

Designer : Microsoft

E-Paper GPS Navigation

2008-09-19T06:38:00.000-07:00

E-paper makes a flexible display that consumes power only when updated. The design is inspired by a regular tourist map where you get good overview, good level of detail, and quick access combined with the advantages of GPS navigation. Store your images from your digital camera on the internal drive and sync them to the GPS log. Now you can see exactly where your photos were taken. Share this information directly by using WiFi or piggyback your phone with Bluetooth.

Designer : Nikita Golovlev

Future Train with Individual Capsule

2008-09-19T02:40:00.000-07:00

This is a futuristic train with unique and stylish seating arrangements. There are individual capsules where one person can sit comfortably for one or two hours but if you are going for a long journey, I doubt whether one can stand and roam inside this train and also there are 4 people lounge seating. Even though the capacity of this train to carry people is very less as compared to other trains but its design, graphic work and features like interaction with users, entertainment, significant data collection and customizable interface makes it unique train capsule concept.

Collapsible Bicycle Concept

2008-09-19T02:01:00.000-07:00

The collapsible bicycle concept designed by Blair Hasty was primarily designed as a vehicle for daily transport usage. Featured in the 2004 International Bicycle Design Competition in Taiwan the concept has the pedals shifted to behind the driver so the overall weight transfers from the lower back to forearms and pelvic bone and the posture while the rider is prostrate while riding the bike. The designer has utilized the space by placing a large bag at the creating a thus creating storage space for the rider. Also to add on it is collapsible and the bag comes handy then. So no need to look for parking space, take it straight to your workstation, plus it is healthier for your body by using bicycle for daily activities.

From the designer :

This project started for me in the broad category of personal transportation. Having seen numerous recreational products win previous design competitions, I resolved to develop a product that would not only be ecologically friendly but also offer health benefits to travelers. After some strong consideration it occurred to me that the large majority of unhealthy, polluters in our society were the millions of people sitting in their cars going to and from work every day. Perhaps many of them would like to commute via man-powered vehicle but simply haven’t found the right solution. I immediately set out to try and found what problems people had with the existing products.

It began by keeping the product parameters in as general a terms as possible so as not to limit myself creatively. I then commenced with the researching of existing bicycle commuters to try and understand what they liked and disliked about it. From there I went on to conduct some local surveying of non-bikers. In doing this I learned of several key problems that could be solved through better design. These concerns included lack of storage capacity, poor positioning, and size and bulk of the conveyance. I feel that after hundreds of hours of thought and months of hard work that my proposed solution resolves these issues

I began my design by solving the problem of user posturing. In traditional bike designs the rider’s feet are underneath them causing their torso to hunch forward in order to reach the handles. This results in unnecessary strain on the lower back, arms, and buttocks, not to mention poor aerodynamics. As illustrated I resolved these issues by moving the position of the pedals behind the rider and moving some of the pressure of their body weight onto the front of the hip bones, using a broad front section of the seat and onto their forearms with supports protruding from the handles. The new riding position helped solve the storage problem by freeing up plenty of useable space beneath the rider. In this newly acquired gap I decided to suspend a large bag for cargo. And as for the storage of the bicycle, after the destination has been reached and the cargo contained within the bag has been removed, it can be expanded and the bike can be folded and placed inside.

By trying to promote bicycle commuting this product not only benefits the user by making them happier and healthier but also society as a whole by reducing the amount of automotive emissions.

Designer : Blair Hasty

Dual Touch Screen Laptop Should Be Here by 2010

2008-09-19T01:50:00.000-07:00

A lot of concept gadgets are coming up primarily to utilize the human senses. Of course the sense of touch is what is being utilized the maximum with many touch screen devices being developed. When almost every latest phone is touch screen can laptops be left behind? An Italian company V12 design has devised ‘Canova’ which is a dual LCD laptop, which is yes touch screen. Though the design is more than four years old, the company wants to take this a step further by introducing the second generation laptops of the same series. It is working on the device to support multi touch and also fit in the microphone to enable voice commands. They claim that the model should be in the market by 2010!

Rocket Powered Helicopter

2008-09-17T05:37:00.000-07:00

Remember the game DAVE you played in your childhood, and you always wanted to fly like Dave using the jet pack. Or let me put it this way: you always wanted to fly like a bird in the air without the use of a jet or a plane. If it is so then, here is the solution for you, the rocket powered helicopter. The rocket powered helicopter is a brilliant and a fantastic way to show your bravery. The structure of the model goes like this: it has two hydrogen fuel cans which will be fitted to your back, a glass helmet to cover your face, a steel rod coming from the cans and reaching your hand with blades present on top of them. A rocket present at the tips of the blades enables the helicopter to work without the use of tail rotor. We are very excited about the product and waiting for its launching day. This is going to be very exciting to give a competition to the birds by the means of science and technology. This product is a bag packed of excitement, thrill, suspense and fun.

New Innovation : PC with Full Spread Braille Layouts

2008-09-17T05:03:00.000-07:00

One of Next-Gen PC Design finalists is Siafu PC Design. The idea behind Siafu was to give people with vision loss an intuitive computer experience. It provides a digitally tactile interface that completely revolutionizes the way that blind people interact with a computer. Siafu lays flat like a tablet and allows the user to fully interact with it by way of touch. The surface of Siafu utilizes a conceptual material called magneclay. This material has the ability to morph upward into any shape. This means that Siafu can generate infinitely refreshable braille and then display it in a book format instead of just one line at a time like current braille displays. Siafu also has the ability to display images as a 3-dimensional relief, allowing blind computer users to experience digital images, and graphic layouts for the first time.

This product is to be used by people who have experienced a loss of sight. Siafu allows users to read text by generating full page braille displays.

The onscreen relief feature also allows users to explore the internet and navigate through websites by physically touching, clicking, and dragging the graphic elements, links, and arrows of the web page. Siafu is also capable of converting all onscreen text to braille relief, so that the user can read whatever is on the screen first hand.

Mazda Kiyora Concept with Low CO2 Emissions

2008-09-14T01:22:00.000-07:00

Mazda has come up with another brilliant concept of futuristic city car named “Kiyora”. In Japanese, Kiyora means ‘clean and pure’ and this concept car truly delivers what it means. It is a next generation four cylinder direct-injection engine which offers amazing fuel economy and low CO2 emissions. Previous concept cars of Mazda were based on shapes like wind and sand whereas Kiyora is inspired by water design. Shape of water gives a totally unique and attractive look to this car. Even when the car is still, it gives the effect of flow and movement. The transparent doors catch one’s attention as they emerge as a flow of water with clean roof.

[Press Release]
HIROSHIMA, Japan - Mazda Kiyora, a lightweight, next generation, urban compact concept car, will be revealed at the 2008 Paris International Motor Show to be held from Thursday, October 2 through Sunday, October 19, 2008.

Mazda Kiyora (meaning “clean and pure” in Japanese) represents the harmony between driving pleasure and environmental and safety features aspired to in Mazda’s long-term technology development vision, “Sustainable Zoom-Zoom.”

The concept of Kiyora helped the designers to imagine a city car cutting cleanly through an urban landscape, with water as the design theme. Kiyora’s aerodynamic Nagare design and next-generation four-cylinder direct-injection engine contribute to excellent fuel economy and low CO2 emissions.

The new Mazda Kiyora concept car is based on an all-new platform designed to minimise weight and maximise safety and driving pleasure. It also features an interior design and new functions that support a youthful lifestyle.

Joining the Mazda Kiyora concept car on Mazda’s stand at the Paris show, the Mazda MX-5 facelift will make its world debut together with the Mazda6 equipped with Mazda’s newly developed MZR-CD 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine, and the Mazda2 powered by a MZ-CD 1.6-liter diesel.

2008 Harley-Davidson VRSCAW/A V-Rod

2008-09-13T06:43:00.000-07:00

Descendant of the original V-Rod that helped launch the power-cruiser segment, the VRSCAW V-Rod rolls on a huge 240 mm rear tire, with forward controls and pull-back welded handlebar. The new 1250cc liquid-cooled Revolution V-Twin engine sends 121 peak horsepower and 84 ft.-lbs. of peak torque to that brawny rear tire in 2008. The Brushed Aluminum Profile Laced front wheel is new for 2008.

NEW ON VRSC FOR 2008

1250cc Revolution V-Twin engine: Originally designed for the CVO Screamin' Eagle V-Rod, bore is increased to 105 mm from 100 mm, boosting displacement from 1130 cc to 1250 cc. This engine is tuned to produce up to 125 hp at 8250 rpm and up to 85 ft-lbs. of torque at 7000. The 60-degree Revolution V-Twin engine is liquid-cooled and features Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI), dual overhead cams, four-valve heads, and a five-speed transmission. The engine is rubber-mounted in hydroformed steel perimeter frame. A steel shell covers the large-volume airbox. A 5-gallon fuel tank is located below the seat on all VRSC models.

Slipper Clutch: All 2008 VRSC models have a new clutch with race-bred "slipper" action that helps mitigate drivetrain strain and rear-wheel lock-up during downshifting. Integral with the new clutch design is an assist feature that reduces clutch-lever effort by more than 20 percent.

Optional ABS: For the first time, each VRSC model is available with optional, factory-installed Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS). Designed to work in conjunction with the high-performance Brembo brakes on all VRSC models, this is the most advanced braking system offered on any power cruiser. ABS is designed to help the rider maintain control during emergency stopping situations, especially those that happen in less than ideal conditions. The components of the Harley-Davidson ABS have been designed and packaged to be virtually invisible, preserving the clean custom styling of the area around the wheels. Unlike many motorcycle ABS, Harley-Davidson ABS is a manual, independent system, meaning the rider maintains full, independent control of how much of each brake is applied.

105th Anniversary Edition: A limited-edition, serialized VRSCAW V-Rod 105th Anniversary Edition will be available in 2008 (see separate release for details on the 105th Anniversary package).

VRSCAW/A V-Rod features:

SPECIFICATIONS:

2008 harley-davidson® SPECIFICATIONS1 vrsc® VRSCAW V-Rod®

DIMENSIONS
Length 94.40 in. (2397.76 mm)
Overall Width 34.50 in. (876.30 mm)
Overall Height 47.70 in. (1211.58 mm)
Seat Height:
• Laden2 26 in. (660.40 mm)
• Unladen 27.10 in. (688.34 mm)
Ground Clearance 5 in. (127 mm)
Rake (steering head) 34°
Fork Angle 36°
Trail 4.50 in. (114.30 mm)
Wheelbase 67.20 in. (1706.88 mm)
Tires (Dunlop® Harley-Davidson® Series, radial blackwall front and rear):
• Front – D208F 120/70ZR-19 60W
• Rear – D419 240/40R-18 79V
Fuel Capacity (warning light at approximately 0.5 gal.) 5 gal. (18.93 L)
Oil Capacity (w/filter) 4.50 qts. (4.26 L)
Coolant Capacity 2.50 qts. (2.37 L)
Weight:
• As Shipped 637 lbs. (288.94 kg)
• In Running Order 670 lbs. (303.91 kg)
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 1075 lbs. (487.61 kg)
Gross Axle Weight Rating:
• Front 377 lbs. (171 kg)
• Rear 698 lbs. (316.61 kg)

ENGINE
Engine3 Liquid-cooled, Revolution®, 60° V-Twin
Valves Overhead cam, 4 valves per cylinder,
solid tappet with shim-under-bucket lash adjustment
Bore x Stroke 4.13 in. (105 mm) x 2.84 in. (72 mm)
Displacement3 76.28 cu. in. (1250 cc)
Compression Ratio 11.5:1
Fuel System4 Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Air Cleaner Down draft intake
Lubrication System Wet-sump, integrated with powertrain crankcase

DRIVETRAIN
Primary Drive Gear, 117/64 ratio
Final Drive Belt, 72/28 ratio
Clutch 9-plate, wet, A&S (Assist & Slip)
Transmission 5-speed
Gear Ratios (overall): U.S. HDI JPN
1st 11.752 10.969 10.969
2nd 7.898 7.371 7.371
3rd 6.322 5.900 5.900
4th 5.459 5.095 5.095
5th 4.889 4.563 4.563

CHASIS
Frame Steel perimeter upper frame with hydroformed main rails
and bolt-on lower frame rails; MIG welded
Swing Arm Polished, one-piece cast aluminum
Front Forks Wide, 49 mm custom
Rear Shocks Preload adjustable
Wheels5
• Front Brushed, Profile Laced Aluminum
19 in. x 3 in. (482.60 mm x 76.20 mm)
• Rear Machined, Slotted Disc Cast Aluminum
18 in. x 8 in. (457.20 mm x 203.20 mm)
Brakes:
• Caliper Type 4-piston front and rear
• Rotor Type (diameter x width): Patented, one-piece floating rotor (front),
uniform expansion rotor (rear)
• Front (dual) 11.81 in. x .20 in. (300 mm x 5 mm)
• Rear 11.81 in. x .28 in. (300 mm x 7 mm)
• ABS Option Available
Suspension Travel:
• Front Wheel 4 in. (101.60 mm)
• Rear Wheel 4 in. (101.60 mm)

PERFORMANCE
Engine Torque6 (per SAE J1349):
• North America 84 ft. lbs. @ 7000 rpm (113.90 NM @ 7000 rpm)
• World 84 ft. lbs. @ 7000 rpm (113.90 NM @ 7000 rpm)
• France opt. Germany 80 ft. lbs. @ 6500 rpm (108.48 NM @ 6500 rpm)
• Japan 77 ft. lbs. @ 7000 rpm (104.41 NM @ 7000 rpm)
Lean Angle (per SAE J1168): Right: 32° Left: 32°
Fuel Economy7 (EPA urban/highway test): 34/42 mpg (6.92/5.60 L /100 km)

ELECTRIC
Battery Sealed, maintenance-free, 12V, 19-amp/hour, 270 cca
(per Battery Council International Rating)
Charging Three-Phase, 38-amp system
(439W @ 13V, 2000 rpm, 489W max power @ 13V)
Starting 0.8 kW electric with direct drive starter motor engagement
Lights (as per country regulation):
• Headlamp (quartz halogen) 55-watt low beam, 65-watt high beam
• Tail/Stop Lights 8W/28W reflector optics (5W/21W)
• Turn Signal Lights 28W (21W) self-canceling
• Indicator Lamps High beam, neutral, low oil pressure, turn signals,
engine diagnostics, coolant temperature, low fuel warnings,
security system8 (optional)

STYLING/CONVENIENCE
Engine Trim Two-tone silver and charcoal powder-coated engine
with chrome treatment covers
Exhaust System Chrome, slash-cut exhaust with dual mufflers
Fenders and Supports
• Front Sport fender with chrome brace supports
• Rear 240 low profile fender
Foot Supports and Controls
• Rider Forward-mounted footpegs with brake & shift levers
• Passenger Standard footpegs
Handlebar Style Stainless steel, pull-back
Seat Type and Style Two-piece, two-up textured vinyl with flip-up fuel fill access
Fork Lock Common with ignition key
Hazard Warning Integrated into turn signal controls
Smart Security System Next-generation hands-free security fob;
operates based on proximity to vehicle

COLORS10
Vivid Black, Black Pearl, Pewter Pearl, Dark Blue Pearl (new), Candy Red Sunglo (new),
Pacific Blue Pearl/Vivid Black (new), Copperhead Pearl/Red Hot11 (new), Golden Glow/
Black Glow11 (new), Purple Haze11 (new), Anniversary Copper Pearl/Vivid Black (new)

WARANTY
Warranty9 24 months (unlimited mileage)
Service Interval First 1,000 miles (1,600 km), every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) thereafter
1 Vehicles depicted may differ from vehicles manufactured and delivered. Specifications and prices listed may differ from specifications and prices of vehicles manufactured and delivered. All product descriptions (including depictions, specifications, dimensions, measurements, ratings and competitive comparisons) are based on available information at the time of publication. Although such descriptions are believed correct, errors and changes can occur and complete accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Harley-Davidson may make changes at any time to prices and specifications, and may change or discontinue models, without notice and without incurring any obligation.

Attention: Vehicles in the configurations shown and many of the accessories described in this catalog may not be available for sale or use in some locations. Please check with your dealer for complete product details and the latest information. All models feature 6-speed transmission (VRSC™ models and Sportster® models are 5-speed) and carbon
fiber belt final drive; multi-plate clutch with diaphragm spring in oil bath; and 2-year unlimited mileage warranty.
2 Measurement reflects 180 lb. (81.7 kg) operator weight.
3 Recommended 91 octane or higher fuel (R+M)/2.
4 Standard and optional fuel systems may vary by country and region.
5 Standard and optional wheels may vary by country and region. Standard 105th Anniversary wheel for FLHTCU, FXDL, XL1200L, FLTR and FLHX models is Gloss Black Painted Cast Aluminum.
6 Values shown are nominal. Performance may vary by country and region.
7 Estimated from fuel economy tests on a sample motorcycle from the corresponding family conducted by Harley-Davidson under ideal laboratory conditions. Not all motorcycle models undergo fuel economy testing. Fuel economy and mileage may vary among motorcycle models within a family. Your mileage may vary depending on your personal riding habits, weather conditions, trip length, vehicle condition and vehicle configuration and other conditions. Break-in mileage may vary.
8 North America security system includes immobilizer; outside North America the security system includes immobilizer and siren.
9 See motorcycle owner’s manual for complete details.
10 Availability of colors may vary from dealer to dealer, and is subject to change without notice.
11 Limited availability. See your dealer for details and available colors.

Media Release

HARLEY-DAVIDSON VRSC PLATFORM MUSCLES UP FOR 2008
1250cc Revolution V-Twin with Slipper Clutch on All Models, ABS Now an Option

MILWAUKEE (July 9, 2007) – The Harley-Davidson family of VRSC premium power cruisers will pack more muscle in 2008. All three VRSC models are powered by the 1250cc Revolution liquid-cooled V-Twin engine, a powertrain originally developed for the Screamin' Eagle V-Rod and now tuned to crank out up to 125 horsepower and 85 ft.-lbs. of torque. To help harness this new-found power, a new slipper clutch is part of the powertrain. And, for the first time, all VRSC models will be available with optional Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS).

As the only Harley-Davidson platform powered by a liquid-cooled V-Twin engine, the VRSC family offers sleek, drag-bike styling and the performance of high-revving horsepower. A low seat height, stretched-out profile with 36-degree fork angle, wide rear tire and premium components like Brembo triple-disc brakes and 49 mm forks, are characteristics of each VRSC model. These are power cruisers that share the performance and technology legacy of the Screamin' Eagle / Vance & Hines drag racing team, three-time NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle World Champions.

NEW ON VRSC FOR 2008

1250cc Revolution V-Twin engine: Originally designed for the CVO Screamin' Eagle V-Rod, bore is increased to 105 mm from 100 mm, boosting displacement from 1130 cc to 1250 cc. This engine is tuned to produce up to 125 hp at 8250 rpm and up to 85 ft-lbs. of torque at 7000. The 60-degree Revolution V-Twin engine is liquid-cooled and features Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI), dual overhead cams, four-valve heads, and a five-speed transmission. The engine is rubber-mounted in hydroformed steel perimeter frame. A steel shell covers the large-volume airbox. A 5-gallon fuel tank is located below the seat on all VRSC models.

Slipper Clutch: All 2008 VRSC models have a new clutch with race-bred "slipper" action that helps mitigate drivetrain strain and rear-wheel lock-up during downshifting. Integral with the new clutch design is an assist feature that reduces clutch-lever effort by more than 20 percent.

Optional ABS: For the first time, each VRSC model is available with optional, factory-installed Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS). Designed to work in conjunction with the high-performance Brembo brakes on all VRSC models, this is the most advanced braking system offered on any power cruiser. ABS is designed to help the rider maintain control during emergency stopping situations, especially those that happen in less than ideal conditions. The components of the Harley-Davidson ABS have been designed and packaged to be virtually invisible, preserving the clean custom styling of the area around the wheels. Unlike many motorcycle ABS, Harley-Davidson ABS is a manual, independent system, meaning the rider maintains full, independent control of how much of each brake is applied.

105th Anniversary Edition: A limited-edition, serialized VRSCAW V-Rod 105th Anniversary Edition will be available in 2008 (see separate release for details on the 105th Anniversary package).

VRSCAW V-Rod
Descendant of the original V-Rod that helped launch the power-cruiser segment, the VRSCAW V-Rod rolls on a huge 240 mm rear tire, with forward controls and pull-back welded handlebar. The new 1250cc liquid-cooled Revolution V-Twin engine sends 121 peak horsepower and 84 ft.-lbs. of peak torque to that brawny rear tire in 2008. The Brushed Aluminum Profile Laced front wheel is new for 2008.

VRSCAW V-Rod features:

NEW Liquid-cooled, 1250cc Revolution V-Twin engine
NEW 121 hp at 8000 rpm/84 ft. lbs. torque at 7000 rpm
NEW Slipper Clutch with reduced lever effort
NEW optional ABS
NEW Brushed aluminum Profile Laced 19-inch front wheel
Machined Slotted Disc Cast Aluminum 18-inch rear wheel
Two-tone silver and charcoal powder-coated cylinders with chrome covers
Chrome Slash-cut Dual exhaust pipes
240 mm wide rear tire
Forward controls
Black hand controls
Silver-leafed frame with clear coat
Welded pull-back handlebar
Teardrop reflector-optic headlight
26-inch seat height
Optional Smart Security System
VRSCD Night Rod
New Black Five Spoke Cast Aluminum wheels reinforce the dark theme of the VRSCD Night Rod, which features a black powdercoated 125-hp Revolution V-Twin engine with highlighted fins and polished covers, black frame, mirrors, hand controls, and other components. Mid-mount controls and highway pegs offer the rider cruising options.

VRSCD Night Rod features:

NEW Liquid-cooled, 1250cc Revolution V-Twin engine
NEW 125 hp at 8250 rpm/85 ft. lbs. torque at 7000 rpm
NEW Slipper Clutch with reduced lever effort
NEW optional ABS
NEW 18-inch Black Five Spoke Cast Aluminum rear/19-inch front wheel
Black powder-coated engine with highlighted fins and polished covers
Chrome, Straight-shot Dual exhaust
180 mm rear tire
Mid-mount controls with highway pegs
Black mirrors, hand controls and springs
Black powder-coated frame
Adjustable handlebar
Round reflector-optic headlight
Color-matched speed screen visor
26-inch seat height
Optional Smart Security System
VRSCDX Night Rod Special
The VRSCDX Night Rod Special is even darker and nastier than the Night Rod. Features include drag bars and forward controls, an all-black 125-hp Revolution V-Twin engine and more blacked-out components, including the fork legs and a wide swing arm supporting a beefy 240 mm rear tire. Brushed Straight-shot Dual mufflers have black end caps and heat shields. A contrasting racing stripe paint scheme traces the length of the bike. The 25.2-inch seat height makes Night Rod Special the lowest VRSC model.

VRSCDX Night Rod Special features:

NEW Liquid-cooled, 1250 cc Revolution V-Twin engine
NEW 125 hp at 8250 rpm/85 ft. lbs. torque at 7000 rpm
NEW Slipper Clutch with reduced lever effort
NEW optional ABS
Black powder-coated engine with highlighted fins and black covers
Brushed Straight-shot Dual exhaust with black end caps and exhaust covers
240 mm wide rear tire
Forward controls
Blacked-out mirrors, rear shocks and controls
Black steel frame
Drag-style handlebar
Round reflector-optic headlight
Color-matched speed screen visor
Black Machined Slotted Disc Cast Aluminum 18-inch rear/19-inch front wheels
with orange pin striping
Contrasting racing stripe paint scheme
25.2-inch seat height
Optional Smart Security System