Mazda Taiki Concept
Taiki is laying groundwork for a rumored RX-7 successor.
Road and Track
The fourth concept exploring Mazda's "flow" design philosophy uses the Japanese word for atmosphere, taiki, as its name. This stretched coupe features multiple design elements, starting with louvers extending from the grille that sweep into side strakes to visually express the flow of air. Large front wheels have a turbine spoke design, further playing to this wind-driven design.
The 2-seater's glass canopy has a fast rake and is pushed rearward and flows into a teardrop fastback shape. The rear wheels are attached outrigger style and are enclosed by additional bodywork, which gives the appearance of rear spats. This design is said to help reduce aerodynamic drag.
Designers used Japanese koinobori — decorative "climbing carp streamers" or kites — as their inspiration for the air-tube shapes used in the vehicle's cockpit. The dash, seats and door trim, like the Taiki's exterior, create the sensation of flowing wind.
Beneath this futuristic body is a front-engine, rear-drive chassis powered by Mazda's Renesis rotary engine, which indicates that the Taiki is laying groundwork for a rumored RX-7 successor.
