When I was at this year's Tokyo Auto Salon walking amongst the gobs of GT-R's, Evos and such, my eye was struck by this dark blue Toyota Prius that was in the Yokohama Tire booth. The car was built by Mooncraft which is one of Japan's oldest race car designers and has worked in many forms of motorsport including Super GT and Formula Nippon. With gas prices soaring around the world and growing concern about the enviornment, Mooncraft's latest project is part of the "Eco Tuning" movement.
Although this Prius looks like it's a Bonneville Salt Flats racer, the car's purpose is not speed but effeciency. The Mooncraft aero parts that have been fitted to the car add even more to the already impressive fuel effeciency that the stock Prius has. Now I am far from a big time enviornmentalist, but as a car guy I do think this is a pretty cool concept. Especially for a daily commuter. It shows that hybrid cars do not have to be soulless boxes and that the "hot rodder's touch" is continuing to evolve. I'm curious to know you what your guys thoughts on the matter are.
Mooncraft
-Mike Garrett