In April the most unique concept car from a major automobile manufacturer debuted at Milan Design week which was developed by Toyota and Sumitomo.
For more than 45 years Sumitomo has been providing NZ industries innovative solutions. Power Transmission specialist Maud Kirk Machinery was originally founded in 1946 in Wellington and in 2014 became the Power Transmission Division of Bay Engineers Supplies. Maud Kirk Machinery is the oldest Sumitomo Drive Technologies industrial distributor in the world.
The Toyota/Sumitomo Setsuna roadster was introduced made primarily of cedar and birch using traditional build techniques that included no nails or screws. Toyota feels that the car will pick up the personality of its owners through time. The climate and environmental exposure the Setsuna operates in will add to its character. The perception is that the vehicle will be passed down amongst generations of family members. A 100 year gauge has been embedded into the vehicle so that generations can understand the life and history of the car.
If other vehicle manufactures also began to make automobiles made from wood what could it mean for the New Zealand forestry industry?
Bay Engineers Supplies doesn't sell wooden cars but we are New Zealand's first choice when it comes to Sumitomo Drive Technologies distribution. Get in touch with any questions regarding Sumitomo.