Mazda’s Innovative Suitcase on Wheels: A Revolutionary Car Solution
The Suitcase Car: Mazda’s Forgotten Futuristic Concept
In the late 1980s, the automotive world was abuzz with innovative ideas for urban mobility. Honda’s Motocompacto, a gas-powered folding scooter, had just been introduced, and other manufacturers were scrambling to catch up. Among them was Mazda, which unveiled its own unique solution: the Suitcase Car.
A Glimpse into the Future
The Suitcase Car was a 30×22-inch Samsonite suitcase equipped with a 34cc two-stroke engine, producing a mere 1.5 horsepower. Its top speed? A whopping 20 mph. While it may seem laughable by today’s standards, the Suitcase Car was designed to be a compact, convenient alternative for short trips.
Design and Functionality
The name "Suitcase Car" was more than just a marketing gimmick. The vehicle’s fold-away design allowed it to be easily stowed in the trunk of a car, making it perfect for daily commutes or short errands. Unfortunately, its 70-pound weight and bulk made it less than ideal for actual suitcase use.
A Demo on The Oprah Winfrey Show
In a peculiar turn of events, the Suitcase Car made an appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show, showcasing its abilities to a national audience. We can only imagine the looks on the audience’s faces as the presenter awkwardly lifted the device into the trunk of a Mazda Miata.
Lessons Learned
The Suitcase Car may have been a futuristic concept, but it ultimately failed to gain traction. Its limited range, cumbersome design, and hefty weight made it more of a novelty than a practical solution. Nevertheless, it remains an intriguing footnote in the history of urban mobility and a testament to the innovative spirit of the automotive industry.
Related Reading
- Honda’s Original Gas-Powered Motocompo: A Look Back
- The Evolution of Urban Mobility: From Honda to Today
