Indonesia obsession of making cars at affordable prices under the public was no less intense with Ratan Tata of India which has made Tata Nano. If the Nano which has been sold, with the horrendous world price of basic 1-lakh rupees or 100,000 Rp 21 million, of Indonesia would like to make a small car with a target alias microcar highest price of Rp 30 million (USD 3225).
That presented by Widya Aryadi, a young professor of creative and have a lot of automotive discovery of the State University of Semarang (Unnes), Monday (18/5). Now, a coalition with Mufid Muhammad Anis, he founded Arina Motors Development in Semarang, Central Java, to fulfill his desire, make a microcar or small car. The car that was born from the minds and creativity of the child's native Indonesia.
Little more.
Thus was born a micro car prototype designed for the city. Widya call UPV or Urban Personal Vehicle. With the support of the Regional Government of Central Java, this car was on display in the event the Exhibition Production Indonesia (PPI) in 2009, held the Ministry of Industry, last week (May 13 to 17).
Apparently, the appearance and the concept of Widya offered on this UPV attract visitors. The proof, he received orders from outside. "Actually, we receive 300 units of the Netherlands. However, it can not be met because of the limitations of current conditions, "said Anis.
Meanwhile, according to Widya, some businessmen from China was curious to see this car. The reason is, "In China, a new small car in the form of three wheels. If we have four wheels," he said. In addition, the original design of this car and not a "copy paste".
Dimensions of this car is very small. Even smaller than the Nano which has a length of 3.1 meters. UPV these dimensions: length 2.05 meters, 1.15 meters wide, 1.6 meters high, 1.75 meter wheelbase, with a total weight of 400 kg prototype. "If it were so, the target of 300 kg," said Widya.
The first prototype uses two large side doors. Door width is 1.2 meters. Therefore, when opened, the entire interior pins.
Economical.
For the transport of motorcycle replacement, using the machine Viar, 150 cc, SOHC, and generate power 9PS, according to Widya, UPV fuel consumption can reach 40 km per liter. "The BBC says, this car is more efficient than a motorcycle," he said citing the BBC crew's comments.
Amazingly, the BBC made a special coverage on this car. Told, British television has been preparing its own scenario, the family had many children live in a narrow alley.
"Well, by using UPV, they got busy. More secure than the cramped ride a motorcycle," he said. Rather, it humanizes the UPV Indonesian man who is only able to buy a motorcycle.
"Take a motorcycle with other family members are very dangerous. In addition, if the rain, had to find shelter. With a vehicle like this UPV, the condition can be prevented. Safer for most families in Indonesia are only able to buy a motorcycle," he said.
He added, do not expect the UPV like cars on the market in Indonesia today. "It's for those who are capable of!" He said.
Test.
Though still the first prototype stage, was invited KOMPAS.com Widya UPV up to try it as a passenger in the Jakarta Fair arena. Apparently, the car is moving swiftly and fairly stable.
Comfort is also relatively good. Only, he seemed to shift gears a little trouble. Dashboard is very simple and is taken from the motor. Suspension, double wishbone wear that is made from pipes and emulate of Mini Mitsubishi Colt.
Interestingly enough, with only 1.2 meters wide, UPV so easy to pass through narrow spaces. In fact, when raised to the truck to return to Semarang, the car glides easily on the terrace of the building PRJ bari. Means, the ability to infiltrate the same as a motorcycle or three-wheeled Bajaj.
Conclusion.
The interior was quite relieved. But, of course there are still many shortcomings. For example, in front of the front passenger. Stretch out legs are not free. Apparently, the gas tank capacity 15 liters were placed. "I'll move," he said.
Fiberglass chair still, static, and can not be set. Control system on the steering wheel and dashboard are still using this bike. "This is far from standard conditions like we wanted," said Widya again. Car body is made from 0.8 mm plate so that its weight so heavy.
The second version, which is better and will be exhibited at the IIMs (Indonesia International Motor Show) in July and August, the body is made of fiberglass. Also equipped with a back door or the third. "In this way, can be used for trade," hope Widya.
