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Multi-function meets mega cool
By Brian Chee
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April 13, 2006
Introduction
There are 142 million reasons for Scion to build a concept like the Fuse.
That’s the number of “under 35s,” people who are young enough to get away with driving a coupe such as what the Fuse portrays.
Not that age ever stopped anyone from buying the
Scion tC, the youngish, sporty coupe that is arguably one of the best buys on the market today. Given this type of demographic makeup, and the fact that Scion attracts a wide swath of all ages with its exciting design and order-form style of buying, it’s sure no surprise that Scion had some fun at the 2006 New York International Auto Show, debuting the Fuse and pointing to the future direction of coupe Scions, and, well, keeping Calty designers busy, thinking and happy.
This is the future of cars, dontcha know, so get used to what the Fuse represents: long and wide stretches of sleek sheet metal, an aggressive tail, short overhangs a low-slung stance and wrap-around ceiling-to-sides glasswork. On the inside, get ready for the ultimate in multi-function – and not your typical 60/40 split, but function that’s more like multi-lifestyle, with a design that caters itself to gamers, cargo and comfort. With special treats like a dual exhaust setup that doubles as lighting – and more – as well as butterfly wings and multi-color headlamps, the Fuse is indeed special – and just what around 142 million people are getting ready to order up at their nearest Scion – Toyota – Lexus dealer.
Tail-wagging good time From the back, wide-body rear flares span the entire rear mass, encasing deep-set vertical taillamps. The dual exhaust also serves as fog and reverse lamps as lighting encircles each exhaust tip. Wheels are 20-inch custom-machined with LED’s on the end of each spoke, which illuminate as turn indicators. Inspiration for the exterior of the Scion Fuse came from the “HAKO” super GT racing cars of Japan, commonly known as the JGTC series. From the side, the Fuse has a low, aggressive stance with a race helmet-inspired wraparound window that provides a panoramic view. The visor-like wraparound windshield is balanced by a strong C-pillar. The front of the Fuse glares at you with slim, high-mounted, deep-set headlamps communicating a serious and aggressive attitude. A massive rectangular air intake hints at potential for a large intercooler.
Multi-function lift gate A multi-functioning rear cargo access allows stowage of larger items. The Fuse cabin seats four comfortably, however when the car is parked, additional room is available with a tailgate that converts to provide outdoor seating. A sweep of the foot over an infrared sensor located on the lip of the rear bumper opens the rear tailgate and sliding hatch, allowing the tailgate to drop down into a curb-high bench. This surprising seating arrangement is paired with rear foldout speakers for an unexpected social environment.
Dual, multi-function exhaust The dual exhaust on the Fuse also serves as fog and reverse lamps as lighting encircles each exhaust tip. Wheels are 20-inch custom-machined with LED’s on the end of each spoke, which illuminate as turn indicators.
Butterfly wings The long wheelbase and high beltline of the Fuse creates the interior theme, which revolves around providing the driver with an intense driving environment and occupants an intimate atmosphere. The activation of a small key-shaped sensor unhinges butterfly doors that open to reveal an interior that merges technology, function and racing inspired elements in an asymmetrical pentagon where the driver is positioned at the apex of the surround.
InteriorThe Fuse interior concept is referred to as “one plus stuff.” The design focuses on the driver by offering surprising versatility in the form of three interior arrangements: video, driving and cargo configurations. In its video mode, the front passenger seat folds flat and serves as a table, or footrest. Occupants can utilize video screens or take advantage of wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) connectivity and instant message their friends. In driving mode, the video screens turn off and a multi-informational display is used for driver information.
Photos by Ron Perry