Abstract: A vehicle chassis that incorporates the engine structure, transaxle structure and a backbone structure provided as a unitary structure onto which other components of a vehicle, such as suspension, steering, body and crash absorbers may be attached. The backbone structure is a closed tubular structure in which a relatively rigid drive shaft can be supported for rotational power delivery between the engine and the transaxle. Several variations of the basic chassis embodiment are disclosed to accommodate rear wheel drive, front wheel drive, four wheel drive, as well as internal combustion, electrical and hybrid powered vehicles.

Abstract: A vehicle body hatchback (12) is disclosed as including a hatch (16) that is movable between open and closed positions and has a hatch opening (24) with a soft top convertible closure (26) movable between open and closed positions with respect to the hatch opening (24). The convertible closure (26) includes a frame (28) movable between raised and stored positions and also includes a soft top (30) that is moved between the closed and open positions thereof upon movement of the frame between the raised and stored positions. Frame (28) of the convertible closure (26) preferably includes a main bow (34) having opposite ends (36) pivotally mounted on the hatch and also includes an auxiliary bow (54) having opposite ends (56) pivotally mounted on the main bow. Movement of the frame bows (34,54) between the stored and raised positions moves the soft top (30) between the closed and open positions. In the closed position, the auxiliary bow (54) is movable to an overcenter position that tensions the soft top (30).

Abstract: An isolation package (22) provides connection of a transmission shift lever (14) with a shifter operating member (16). A connector (28) of the isolation package (22) has a threaded connection (30,32) with an upper end (18) of the shifter operating member (16) and extends through a hole (34) in the lower end (20) of the lever. Elastomeric material (36,38) is positioned between the lever end (20) and the end (18) of the shifter operating member (16) to provide a vibration isolated connection. The preferred construction of the isolation package (22) includes an elastomeric sleeve (36) and a pair of elastomeric tubes (38) that cooperate with a pair of the connectors (28) to provide the vibration isolated connection. A clamping plate (50) engages the elastomeric sleeve (36) to limit deformation thereof and thereby rigidify the connection.