Ken Okuyama Design Rocks Kode9, Racecars and a Tractor in Tokyo

The star of the show is the Kode9 sports car, which really does highlight Okuyama's idiosyncratic way of looking at design. The coupe could easily pass for a top-effort from an Italian design house (not surprising, as Okuyama boasts a stint as director of design for Pininfarina on his resume), but the characterful face and central tailfin feel very Japanese, if not a bit Speed Racer.

Functionally, the Kode9 seems more than able to back up its wild good looks. The chassis has a central section constructed of aluminum, with carbon-fiber construction at the front and rear. Powering the vehicle is a 370-horsepower, HKS-supercharged 2.0-liter engine that looks to be of Honda extraction. The total weight of the car is just 1,962 pounds, so we'd expect that forced-induction four-cylinder to really make the car scoot.

Okuyama has also produced a lighter, racy version of his K0.7 minimalist racer, called the Kode7 Clubman. The two-seat racer has a 1.6-liter, 250-horsepower engine under its hood, and looks custom made to terrorize club racetracks in Japan.

Finally, and most winsome of all, is the high-concept tractor that the designer has created with Yanmar running gear. The Yanmar Y Concept is an attempt at optimizing visibility and sturdy construction for the working man, while also incorporating features like a GPS system.