Mazda Motor Corporation

Kazurou Hanaki

Naomune Moriyama

An upper body structure with greater strength and rigidity to withstand side loads even when a large roof opening is formed in the roof. Ribs in a soft canvas cover for the roof opening are also hidden from view. A roof opening is formed throughout substantially the entire length of the roof. The roof opening can be closed by a soft cover made from canvas or other material and a framework having plurality of rib. A frame is installed to the roof so as to frame the roof opening. The frame has a reinforcing cross member connecting the long right and left side of the frame. The reinforcing cross member is located in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle substantially at the center pillars. The frame and center pillars are conjoined by reinforcement. When cover is closed over roof opening, at least one of the plural ribs overlaps and is hidden by reinforcing cross member.

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Hiroshima, Japan

Kazurou Hanaki