Mitsubishi Motors New 'Mitsubishi Concept-RA' and 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart Debut at 2008 NAIAS

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) and Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. debut the MITSUBISHI Concept-RA and the Lancer Ralliart to the world at the 2008 edition of the North American International Auto Show. Building on Mitsubishi's global history of exciting two door sports coupes, the MITSUBISHI Concept-RA takes the sports coupe design theme in a new direction and brings the ROAD ALIVE.

Mitsubishi Concept-RA

The exciting MITSUBISHI Concept-RA is an athletic pure coupe concept that allows a passion for dynamic performance driving to coexist with a heightened sensitivity for the environment thanks to high output clean diesel power. Also making its global debut, the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart is a turbocharged, all-wheel-drive compact sports sedan that will be in showrooms in the summer of 2008.

Concept-RA

The MITSUBISHI Concept-RA continues a long tradition of sporty coupe concepts dating back to the 1972 debut of the Galant GTO R73-X show car, which showcased high revving, high output (200 hp) DOHC engine technology. Combining cutting edge drivetrain technologies with the latest clean diesel engine design, MITSUBISHI Concept-RA demonstrates that a thrilling performance machine and a sense of environmental responsibility need not be mutually exclusive concepts. The Concept-RA features a "next generation" Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) system that is comprised of Active Center Differential, Active Yaw Control, Sport ABS and Active Stability Control component systems, as equipped on the very capable Lancer Evolution. For Concept-RA, this vehicle-dynamics-enhancing, all-wheel-drive system is upgraded to include Active Steering and Active Damping Control elements to further improve driver control, as well as vehicle handling and stability. S-AWC integrally manages all of these systems to realize advanced levels of control over drive torque and braking, thereby improving traction, cornering and vehicle stability. This complex system of electronic traction and driveline control help create intuitive, on-demand vehicle behavior that faithfully reflects driver intent under all driving conditions, from everyday use to emergency avoidance situations.

MITSUBISHI Concept-RA is powered by a new high output, low-emissions 2.2-liter 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve turbo diesel engine. This engine features a MIVEC(1) valvetrain that offers continuously variable valve timing control as well as low and high speed camshaft profiles. The new diesel is equipped with piezoelectric injector common-rail direct fuel injection that allows a lower compression ratio and a VD (Variable Diffuser)/VG (Variable Geometry) turbocharger. The 2.2 liter clean diesel unit delivers a maximum output of 201 hp (150 kW) and maximum torque of 310 ft. lbs (42.8 kg-m). In an effort to comply with U.S. emissions standards (Tier 2 Bin 5 emission regulations), the diesel relies on a new catalytic converter system that utilizes diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), NOx trap catalyst (NTC) and diesel particulate filter (DPF) technologies. When mated to a Twin Clutch-SST gearbox, the torque-rich diesel engine will help deliver sporty driving manners with a high degree of fuel efficiency.

MITSUBISHI Concept-RA makes extensive use of lightweight materials in its construction to help reduce vehicle mass for improved performance, fuel economy and safety. The athletic coupe features a new body structure that utilizes an aluminum space frame made from extruded aluminum sections and die-cast aluminum components, as well as the hood, fenders and other outer panels molded from impact-resistant and easily recyclable plastic resin.

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart

The 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart model is the latest addition to the sporty Lancer compact car family. This new model reinforces the sporty identity of the Lancer lineup (Lancer, Lancer Ralliart and Lancer Evolution) with aggressive styling and driving performance to be well positioned between the Lancer and the Lancer Evolution models.

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart

Lancer Ralliart is powered by a new 2.0-liter DOHC MIVEC intercooled and turbocharged engine that develops an estimated 235 horsepower. The engine is mated to Mitsubishi's Twin Clutch-SST gearbox that delivers highly-efficient power transmission while enhancing the sporty driving qualities of the vehicle with lightning-quick, silky-smooth, paddle-actuated shifts or programmed fully-auto modes. The Lancer Ralliart's full-time 4WD driveline features Mitsubishi's Active Center Differential (ACD). The ACD unit employs an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch center differential, vectoring drive torque to the front and rear according to different driving conditions to realize the best balance between steering response and traction characteristics on Tarmac, Gravel, or Snow surfaces. Lancer Ralliart is also equipped with a front helical and rear mechanical limited slip differentials.

The Lancer Ralliart exterior is distinguished by its more aggressively styled front bumper design, rear bumper cover, dual outlet muffler and a lightweight aluminum, ducted hood that delivers cooling air to the turbocharger. The interior design places greater emphasis on function and vehicle control. Lancer Ralliart is equipped with FAST key, hands free telephone interface, the same Twin Clutch-SST shifter used on Lancer Evolution, and easily accessible steering column mounted paddle shifters.

Available equipment and options to include: Recaro seats, HID headlights, 650 watt Rockford Fosgate 9-speaker audio system, Sirius satellite radio, power sunroof, and a 30 GB Hard Drive Navigation system

Also on display, the Galant GTO R73-X show car, the Lancer EX2000 Turbo and the all-new 2008 Lancer Evolution complement the full-line up of Mitsubishi vehicles for North America.

About Mitsubishi Motors North America

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is responsible for all manufacturing, finance, sales, marketing, research and development operations for Mitsubishi Motors in the United States. MMNA sells coupes, convertibles, sedans, sport utility vehicles, and light trucks through a network of approximately 500 dealers. For more information, contact the Mitsubishi Motors News Bureau at (888) 560-6672 or visit http://media.mitsubishicars.com/.

(1) Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control system

Source: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.

Land Rover LRX Hybrid Concept Unveiled at 2008 NAIAS

Land Rover unveiled a vision of its future today at the North American International Auto Show (Detroit Auto Show and/or NAIAS) with the world debut of the LRX hybrid concept. The Land Rover LRX is a bold evolution of Land Rover design that indicates the brand's progressive shift into new areas of the market, while remaining true to its core values.

Land Rover LRX Hybrid Concept

As the company prepares to celebrate its 60th anniversary during 2008, the three-door LRX, with its more compact size, lighter weight and sustainability-focused technologies, clearly addresses the needs of a changing world and offers the potential of 120 g/km CO2 emissions.

Land Rover LRX is a cross-coupe and dramatically extends the scope of what Land Rover represents. The first all-new Land Rover revealed since Gerry McGovern became the company's design director, LRX is a natural extension of the Land Rover range, complementing the existing models and helping to define a new segment.

"The LRX concept delivers the powerful message that we are as serious about sustainability as we are confident about the continuing relevance and desirability of our vehicles," says Phil Popham, Land Rover's managing director. "LRX is in every respect a Land Rover, but it's a very different Land Rover. At this stage, LRX is purely a concept, designed to help us develop our thinking as well as gauge customer reaction -- but this feels like a hugely exciting direction to take."

LRX is conceived as being powered by a 2.0-liter, turbodiesel engine, capable of running on bio-diesel. In combination with other Land Rover technologies, this powertrain could reduce fuel consumption by as much as 30 percent compared with other SUVs of comparable size, as well as reduce emissions.

The concept's integrated Electric Rear Axle Drive (ERAD) would allow LRX to use electric drive alone at lower speeds while retaining full (even improved) sport utility ability in tough conditions. Unlike the hybrid technology used by some SUV rivals, Land Rover's unique solution retains mechanical drive to all four wheels.

Off-road, the ERAD would provide additional torque only when it is needed, and with maximum electrical torque from standstill, this solution offers even better low-speed control and enhanced pull-away on difficult surfaces. On the road, the ERAD would allow low-speed traffic creep up to 20 mph on electric power alone, with the Integrated Starter-Generator (ISG) function re-starting the engine automatically when needed. The electric drive would then continue to assist the mechanical drive until the engine is running in its most efficient range. The ISG would also stop the engine automatically when the vehicle halts in traffic, so the engine does not idle needlessly, and restart it quickly and smoothly as required.

LRX also incorporates Hill Descent Control and Land Rover's acclaimed and user-friendly Terrain Response system. In the LRX, Terrain Response adds a special "Eco" mode, for optimal economy, to the standard modes found on all other Land Rover vehicles.

The design of LRX was developed entirely in-house by Design Director Gerry McGovern's team, driven by a passion to create a vehicle that truly represents Land Rover's future thinking. Inside, LRX's distinctive seats 'float' on individual plinths and have open frameworks to reinforce the impression of light, airy interior space -- while also creating useful under-seat and under-floor stowage areas. To reduce overall vehicle weight, the glass for the side windows and roof were replaced with polycarbonate from SABIC Innovative Plastics, which is around 40 percent lighter, yet still strong and scratch-resistant.

Even the choice of premium-quality trim materials reflects Land Rover's deep thinking about sustainability, with vegetable-tanned leather (chromium-free, so better for recycling), extensive use of aluminum (both lightweight and readily recyclable) and carpeting made of felt from sustainable sources. And the luxurious, vanilla-colored 'fine suede' on the door inserts and headliner is a 100% recycled material made from used plastic bottles and fibers.

"We are determined to make sustainability a key element in our future product design and the way we do business, while still creating vehicles that have a strong emotional appeal as well as fulfilling people's practical needs," adds Phil Popham. "No single technology delivers all the answers to whole-life sustainability, but the LRX concept brings together some of the ideas for the future that interest us, integrating them into a car that we believe represents an exciting way forward for Land Rover."

2008 Dodge ZEO Concept

Chrysler rolled out three concepts at the 2008 Detroit auto show, each pairing exciting design and glimpse-of-the-future features with environmental friendliness.

All three deliver power through an electric motor system and advanced, yet-to-be-developed lithium-ion battery pack, but each model has a different type of "range extender for the powertrain" - a gasoline or diesel engine that cycles on only when the battery has little charge remaining.

This modular electric/lithium-ion technology that all three employ is being developed by Chrysler's new ENV1, an in-house organization at the company that's focused around developing electric-drive vehicles and advanced-propulsion technologies.

The Dodge ZEO is a four-passenger, 2+2 sport wagon and takes a nearly opposite design direction from the Chrysler, with a long hood, rearward cabin, and monster 23-inch wheels. The ZEO, according to Creed is a "new, responsible breed of muscle car for the 21st Century." With a powerful 200 kW electric motor for a light 2650-pound curb weight, the ZEO can rip out zero-to-sixty times of less than six seconds and is designed to be the environmentally friendly all-electric vehicle for driving enthusiasts.

With a larger lithium-ion battery pack on board, the ZEO can achieve a 250-mile driving range, according to Chrysler, and get a gasoline-equivalent fuel economy of about 120 mpg. That is, provided you don't spend too much time near the 130-mpg top speed in your concept-car fantasy.

© Source: thecarconnection

2008 Nissan Forum Concept

Though minivan sales have cooled significantly in the past five years, American families snap up more than a million minivans annually. Brands like Ford, Nissan, and GM may have pulled back from minivans entirely but Chrysler, Honda and Toyota are still dedicated to providing buyers with those traditionally flavored family movers.

The Forum concept isn't unrecognizable to minivan drivers and owners. It has the big box in back for kids and cargo, but Nissan designers have gone with a higher beltline, styled side glass and a wider stance, to give a more sporty feel to the traditional one-box van. Emphasizing that theme is a curvaceously sweeping grille that is accented by a soft LED light bar. While Nissan hasn't eliminated the sliding doors that parents love, it has carefully hidden their tracks.

The front doors swing open to a 90-degree angle. Further enhancing the sense of spaciousness, the Forum's sides have lost the typical B-pillars that would reinforce the middle of its body; instead, designers have penned in stronger door and roof frames. Atop the Forum, the huge SkyView roof contains hidden sunshades, permitting the glass to be closed off on hot days.

Nissan has even built in a pair of "Kids Cams," which can be displayed on the instrument panel's LCD monitor. If a little discipline is needed, there's also a "Time Out" system, which will mute all audio devices - and broadcast the driver's voice on all the Forum's speakers.

Under the hood, the Forum features a clean diesel engine, like the one the automaker is planning to offer in the next new Maxima sedan. It's mated to a version of the mileage minded continuously variable transmission (CVT) Nissan has been rolling out throughout its global product lineup.

Whether the Forum will take a place in the Nissan lineup is unclear. It's obvious that the automaker is looking for an acceptable alternative to its slow-selling Quest minivan. If the Forum gets people talking the idea up during the coming auto show season, Nissan very well could find a place for this new people mover.

NAIAS: Land Rover LRX concept

Land Rover unveils a vision of its future at the NAIAS (Detroit Show) in January 2008, with the world debut of the LRX concept - a bold evolution of Land Rover design that indicates the brand’s progressive shift into new areas of the market, while remaining true to its core values. As the company prepares to celebrate its 60th anniversary during 2008, the three-door LRX, with its more compact size, lighter weight and sustainability focussed technologies, clearly addresses the needs of a changing world.

"The LRX concept delivers the powerful message that we are as serious about sustainability as we are confident about the continuing relevance and desirability of our vehicles," says Phil Popham, Land Rover's managing director. "The LRX is in every respect a Land Rover, but it's a very different Land Rover.

"LRX has unmistakable Land Rover design and the breadth of capability that you'd expect from our vehicles. But it carries those essentials into a segment where the
brand has never been before, and with a proposed level of efficiency that would make it one of the cleanest vehicles in its class. It is Land Rover’s way of affirming the brand’s responsible approach to future product development. At this stage, LRX is purely a concept, designed to help us develop our thinking as well as gauge customer reaction – but this feels like a hugely exciting direction to take."

Compact and premium
The LRX is described as a cross-coupé, and dramatically extends the scope of what Land Rover stands for. Though smaller than Freelander 2 / LR2, the LRX is conceived as a premium car, designed to appeal to new customers in the luxury and executive sector – those who want many of the benefits of a 4x4 and the visual presence of a larger vehicle, but in a more compact package.

The first all-new Land Rover revealed since Gerry McGovern became the company's design director, LRX is a natural extension of the Land Rover range, complementing the existing models with a car that will help to define a new segment. Its many recognisable Land Rover design cues include bold new interpretations of the signature clamshell bonnet, the floating roof and the solid ‘wheel-at-each-corner’ stance.

"LRX is a design born out of passion for the brand, but it is different, relevant, engaging and exciting – because Land Rover has never built ordinary cars," says Gerry McGovern. "LRX has a highly desirable identity and the design alludes strongly to its capability, while clearly underlining our forward-looking philosophy – it's a Land Rover that would be comfortable on Bond Street or Fifth Avenue, but wouldn’t flinch at getting its wheels dirty."

Its compact size is one of its greatest assets, which will appeal to anyone who wants the versatile ability of an agile 4x4 with the cachet of the Land Rover name. In addition, its lower weight and the reduced aerodynamic drag resulting from the smaller frontal area give significant gains in fuel efficiency and reduced CO₂ emissions.

The LRX concept also adopts intelligent power management systems and other technologies first shown by Land Rover in the Land_e concept in 2006. Further details of the LRX's powertrain and sustainability technologies will be released at the Detroit Show.

Extending 'breadth of capability'
The positioning of LRX could be described as moving subtly from traditional SUV to crossover, with its more car-like appearance and dynamics that are sportier and on-road biased. But while its character is underlined by excellent agility, handling and performance, the LRX also promises the widest breadth of capability in the class. To help achieve this, it has full-time four-wheel drive and Hill Descent Control, as well as a special version of Land Rover’s acclaimed Terrain Response system, to optimise traction on difficult surfaces ranging from icy roads to wet grass, gravel and snow. But to reflect LRX's more on-road bias, Terrain Response also gains a new ‘Eco’ mode for lower emission urban driving.

The design of the LRX was developed entirely in-house, driven by a passion to create a car that truly represents Land Rover’s future thinking. It has a very dynamic profile, with a distinctive taper to the floating roofline and a muscular shoulder running the length of the car, accentuated by the rising beltline. The glazing wraps right around the LRX, with no exposed pillars, creating a bold design graphic. The architectural structure of the upper body can be glimpsed through the windows and roof – echoing some of the best contemporary buildings.

Pushing the wheels out to the four corners helps give the car its purposeful stance, and its front-end design makes a powerful and instantly recognisable statement of Land Rover’s identity. There are new interpretations of Land Rover’s traditional clamshell bonnet, distinctive headlamps, jewel-like, tapering blade indicator clusters front and rear, and subtle side vents. The LRX’s wheel arches are wide but softly integrated, housing 20-inch alloy wheels.

The carefully sculpted corners dramatically reduce the car’s visual overhangs front and rear. With its perforated two-bar grille, door releases concealed in the car’s shoulders, and graphic details ‘punched out’ of the smooth body surfaces rather than overlaid on them, the LRX is beautifully proportioned and elegantly simple – but very dramatic and distinctive.

Impeccable, premium interior
The interior of the LRX concept clearly demonstrates how a compact Land Rover can still be roomy, practical and versatile – and one with great sophistication. The impeccably executed cabin features a combination of soft leathers in rich tan and dark chocolate, with polished aluminium details.

The ‘fast’ sloping architecture of the centre console reflects the LRX’s sporty dynamics, as does the distinctive binnacle over the instrument cluster. The electronic display uses ‘floating’ LCD graphics to create a three-dimensional look that can be personalised for different drivers, as well as interacting with the LRX’s touch-screen display.

The instrument graphics present data in layers depending on their level of importance, to give maximum relevant information with minimum distraction. When appropriate, displayed information transfers between the main instrument cluster and the touch screen. And further adding to the LRX’s involving personality, the different drivetrain modes are matched by changes in the cabin’s background lighting colour – green in economy, red in sports and blue in standard mode.

Clever use of space
Although the LRX is compact, clever use of space makes it impressively roomy, and many neat design touches maximise its practicality. A second touch screen area gives a fully interactive display and control for the LRX’s iPhone docking facility. On either side of the horizontally-split, power-operated tailgate, removable and power-adjustable speakers include an iPod docking station. There is also a coolbox, plus a bottle chiller that can be clipped to the lowered tailgate. This also has integral aluminium cupholders between two padded seating areas, for a new twist on the idea of a traditional Land Rover tailgate lunch.

Every interior design detail combines to maximise both actual space and the feeling of space. The clear roof is supported by a ‘spider’ frame running into the A-pillars, and the rear quarter pillars have glazed apertures for improved visibility and a lighter feel in the cabin.

The LRX’s distinctive seats ‘float’ on individual plinths and have open frameworks to reinforce the impression of light, airy interior space – while also creating useful under-seat and under-floor stowage areas. The clever, powered mechanism of the Seat backs maximises interior flexibility and helps create a large, flat storage area when needed, complete with multiple tie-down options. The generous load space and through-loading option also help accommodate bikes, skis or surfboards.

"Flexible load carrying capacity is fundamental to the concept of the LRX," says Gerry McGovern. "With this car, we've interpreted the idea of Land Rover 'breadth of capability' to be more about versatility than about ultimate off-roading. This meets the needs of the new customers that we believe would be attracted by this type of car. They will not only appreciate LRX's versatility, but will also recognise that this has been packaged with the highest levels of precision."

Sustainable product design
The structures of the seats and instrument panel are elegant enough to be left exposed - one novel approach that Land Rover's designers have taken to reduce vehicle weight. Another example is replacing the glass for side windows and roof with polycarbonate, which is around 40% lighter.

Even the choice of the premium quality trim materials reflects Land Rover's deep thinking about sustainability, with vegetable-tanned leather (chromium-free, so better for recycling), extensive use of aluminium (both lightweight and readily recyclable), and carpeting made of felt from sustainable sources. And the luxurious vanilla-coloured 'fine suede' on the door inserts and headliner is a 100% recycled material made from used plastic bottles.

"We are determined to make sustainability a key element in our future product design and the way we do business, while still creating vehicles that have a strong emotional appeal as well as fulfilling people's practical needs," says Phil Popham.

"No one technology delivers all the answers to whole life sustainability, but the LRX concept brings together some of the future ideas that interest us, into a car that we believe represents an exciting way forward for Land Rover."

Suzuki A-Star Concept

Suzuki has shown us the first shots of the Concept A-Star, its new baby city car with a definite Indian flavour.

Due to be unveiled at the Dehli motor show in January, the Concept A-Star is a five-door hatch previewing Suzuki's forthcoming A-segment competitor.

Designed in part by Suzuki's Indian partner Maruti, it'll go on sale in production form in both India and Europe during 2009, slotting below the Swift in the Suzuki line-up.

For Maruti's first crack at a concept car, we reckon it's a fairly handsome effort, but it's not just the design that the Indian team has got involved in. The production version of the A-Star will be built solely in Maruti's Gargaon plant, and Suzuki expects to sell just shy of a million units a year by 2009. Expect to see a few around, in other words.

Details on the A-Star are somewhat sketchy, but we know it'll be powered by a 1.0-litre aluminium petrol engine which is expected to produce less than 109g/km of CO2.

Suzuki says it is considering a diesel variant, but has ruled out using its current 1.3-litre DDiS unit on environmental grounds.

© Source: topgear

Land Rover LRX Concept first official images

Today Auto Motor und Sport published the first official images of the Land Rover LRX Concept that will be shown for the first time at the 2008 NAIAS in Detroit.

The LRX is a two-door crossover with a coupè-like body that previews the future small Land Rover, which will be positioned under the Freelander. The production version is expected to make its debut in spring 2009.

The car measures 435 cm in length and 155 in height, being shorter but, above all, quite a bit lower than the Freelander. The concept has aggressive air intakes, 20" rims and narrow head lights. In the side view there is a notably high belt line which creates along with the sloping roof profile a small glass surface, similar to a sports car one.

The panoramic roof shows the futuristic interior, covered in two-tone leather and highlighted with polished aluminium trim. There are only four seats as the central tunnel is extended to the rear.

The LRX is based on the Ford Focus platform and has a hybrid drive with the electric engine positioned on the rear axle.

© Source: eurocarblog

2008 Honda Pilot Concept

In a very brief release this morning, Honda confirmed its next-generation Pilot crossover will be shown as a concept at the upcoming Detroit auto show.

Press release
A prototype of the next-generation Honda Pilot will be unveiled at the January 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today. The prototype will convey design features of the more boldly-styled, next-generation Pilot and will emphasize authentic SUV styling, clever interior packaging and advanced technologies for safety, fuel efficiency and convenience.

The current-generation Pilot offers versatile eight-passenger seating and all-weather, medium-duty off-road capabilities while earning a distinctive reputation in the midsize SUV class for its refined handling and ride comfort. Among its numerous accolades, the Honda Pilot has earned Car and Driver magazine's prestigious "5Best Truck" award for six straight years (2002 thru 2007).

Additional Honda vehicles to be on display at NAIAS include the FCX Clarity hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, introduced at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show, and the CR-Z concept vehicle, introduced at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show. Limited retail marketing of the FCX Clarity will begin in summer 2008. The CR-Z is a next-generation lightweight sports car concept equipped with Honda's original gas-electric hybrid system.

2008 HUMMER HX Concept

General Motors is known to have had its eye on the niche occupied by the Jeep Wrangler. And at the Detroit auto show next month, it may reveal more of its intentions to field a Wrangler competitor in the shape of the HUMMER HX concept.

The HX Concept, shown in sketches at a GM press event today, also embodies some of the off-road hallmarks of the Toyota FJ Cruiser. BUT GM says the design of the new HX concept is all HUMMER, even though it's the work of three new designers.

David Rojas, Min Young Kang, and Robert Jablonski are the artists GM assigned to envision a future off-road vehicle for the HUMMER brand. All three are graduates of the College for Creative Studies in Detroit. The vehicle would have to evince HUMMER's off-road credentials while passing muster with Carl Zipfel, the director of the brand's design studio.

The resulting HX concept shares some elements with other HUMMER vehicles, like its flex-fuel-capable powertrain. But as the HX model is smaller and is a two-door vehicle, it has some stylistic touches uncommon to other HUMMER vehicles. The roof, for example, has removable panels and a removable rear roof that converts the HX from hardtop to an open-air vehicle with a short truck bed. The doors and fender flares are removable, too.

Stay tuned for more pictures and details on the HX concept as TheCarConnection.com covers the Detroit show debuts through January 15, 2008.

Los Angeles Rolls Out the "Green Carpet" for General Motors' Chevy Volt Concept

Extended-Range Electric Vehicle Will Electrify Los Angeles Commuting

General Motors' extended-range electric vehicle concept arrives in Southern California on Thursday, giving Angelenos a rare, up close preview of the highly-anticipated Chevy Volt. The vehicle will be on display at hot spot locations throughout Los Angeles from December 6 through December 11. Los Angeles is one of only four U.S. cities to host the Chevy Volt around town, providing an opportunity for locals to see the car of the future.

Chevy Volt Concept Car

Since its introduction in January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the Chevy Volt sedan - powered by GM's E-Flex electric propulsion system - has energized car enthusiasts in the U.S. and abroad with its potential to greatly reduce trips to the gas station for many commuters, as well as greatly reduce CO2 emissions.

More than 75 percent of drivers in the United States commute fewer than 40 miles a day1. For these drivers, a fully charged Chevy Volt will use no gas and produce no tailpipe emissions. The Chevy Volt is easily recharged by plugging it into a common 110-volt electrical outlet. A FlexFuel on-board engine that can run on gasoline, E85 ethanol, or a combination of the two, creates additional electricity to extend the vehicle's range up to 640 miles, delivering triple-digit miles per gallon.

To bring the Chevy Volt to production, GM has engaged more than 200 engineers and 25 interior and exterior designers, and is aggressively pursuing battery-development contracts with two leading suppliers.

Consumers can see the Chevy Volt at the following locations, free-of-charge:

Thursday, December 6

9:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Mann's Chinese Theater
6925 Hollywood Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90028

Friday, December 7

9 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Third Street Promenade
1200 block of Third Street Promenade at Arizona Ave.
Santa Monica, CA 90401

Saturday, December 8

10 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Hermosa Pier Plaza
Hermosa Avenue and Pier Avenue
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

Sunday, December 9

10 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Del Amo Fashion Plaza
3525 W. Carson St.
Torrance, CA 90503

Monday, December 10

9 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Westfield Topanga Mall
6600 Topanga Canyon Blvd.
Canoga Park, CA 913

Tuesday, December 11

8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel
7000 Hollywood Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90028

BMW Concept 1 Series tii

Description in Brief:

Character:

• Design study based on the BMW 1 Series Coupé with an uncompromising focus on motorsport.

• BMW Concept 1 Series tii as a young interpretation of classic BMW brand values.

BMW Concept 1 Series tii

• Implementation of specific requirements for motorsport ensured through the design of the car.

• Design study following the tradition of BMW’s compact, light and extremely sporting coupés. The characteristic features of models particularly successful in motorsport have gone straight into BMW Concept 1 Series tii.

• BMW Concept 1 Series tii underlines the extremely sporting potential and the youthful, temperamental character of the BMW 1 Series. The design study raises the focus on pure driving pleasure already associated with the BMW 1 Series Coupé to an even higher standard.

• As the fifth concept car presented by BMW in 2007 alone, BMW Concept 1 Series tii clearly demonstrates the exceptional bandwidth covered by the world’s leading manufacturer of premium cars. Following the BMW M3 Concept Car, the BMW Concept CS and the BMW Concept X6/BMW Concept X6 ActiveHybrid, BMW Concept 1 Series tii stands out as a unique symbol of maximum driving pleasure also in the compact segment.

Exterior:

• Through its unique, completely different design, BMW Concept 1 Series tii clearly emphasises its outstanding potential in driving dynamics.

• Optimised aerodynamics on the body with individual, distinctive design of the front air dam, side-sills and rear air dam. Special gurney flaps generating additional downforce on the rear axle.

• Further enhancement of agility and efficiency through consistent lightweight engineering using carbon components inter alia on the engine compartment lid, the mirror caps, and the inlays for the front air intakes at the side. Significant reduction of weight versus series production cars.

• Sporting, accentuated, contrasting and, at the same time, typical BMW colour scheme on the exterior and interior. The body colour Alpine White is combined with the very dark carbon structure of the CFP elements, with further highlights added in Blue.

• BMW Concept 1 Series tii takes up striking features of former motorsport models in many of its details: fins along the engine compartment lid to optimise the flow of air, contrasting colour scheme on the engine compartment lid, decal strips on the roof of the car and the rear lid in contrasting colour, visible, open towing fixture.

Interior:

• Authentic interpretation of specific motorsport standards through the concept of the interior design as well as colours and material design.

• Sports bucket seats with integrated headrests and side airbags,

three-spoke sports steering wheel and gearshift knob with alcantara cover, model-specific door linings, door closing handles and armrest on the driver’s side.

• The contrasting colour scheme (Black, White, Blue) and the various functions and features derived from motorsport also characterise the interior of BMW Concept 1 Series tii.

• The white rev counter highlights this instrument of particular significance in motorsport, the sports steering wheel with its white spokes and trim taking up the exterior colour scheme.

• Use of dark alcantara on the door linings and the instrument panel prevents reflections and accentuates the driver-oriented design and configuration of the cockpit. Alcantara on the seats, the steering wheel rim and the gearshift knob optimises side support and, respectively, the driver’s grip.

• The newly developed structure tissue for the footwell accentuates the sporting and functional character of the interior.

The BMW Concept 1 Series tii.

Agility, lightness, youthfulness and superior sportiness – all these features are presented and highlighted impressively in BMW Concept 1 Series tii.

Based on the new BMW 1 Series Coupé being presented to the world public for the first time at the Tokyo Motor Show 2007, this fascinating design study is the consistent evolution of BMW’s compact two-door with a clear focus on uncompromising sportiness. With its aerodynamically optimised body, a wide range of lightweight features serving to minimise the weight of the car and its axle load distribution, as well as an interior tailored specifically to the ambitious driver, this concept study clearly offers a high level of driving dynamics right from the start.

BMW Concept 1 Series tii thus offers a very highly concentrated rendition of the brand’s sporting genes, at the same time proving the dynamic character of BMW’s compact two-door in offering the ultimate in driving pleasure.

In its design, BMW Concept 1 Series tii clearly takes up the traditional features and characteristics of successful BMW sports cars in the past: At very first sight the beholder will see features which made numerous BMW Coupés an outstanding success on both the road and the race track back in the 1960s and ’70s. These were cars characterised by compact dimensions, low weight with perfect balance front-to-rear, as well as powerful engines conveying their superior muscle to the rear wheels.

Particularly the BMW 02 introduced back in 1966 was acknowledged as the epitome of supreme agility and thrilling, highly dynamic driving characteristics based on these success factors. And now the new BMW 1 Series Coupé represents the same philosophy: Light, agile, and powerful, this compact two-door with its unparalleled, ultra-sporting handling provides an unprecedented experience at the wheel.

The similarities between these two models result in particular from the concept of the car, BMW Concept 1 Series tii bringing out all these strengths and clearly demonstrating how much the development principles applied more than four decades ago are still most appropriate today in creating sports models truly fascinating in every respect.

Traditional and modern: lightweight construction as the basic principle, CFP as the solution.

BMW Concept 1 Series tii combines visual features carried over from the past with the most advanced technology in development and production. Particularly the basic principle of the car rests on traditional values, while high-tech materials and applications are used in the implementation process.

To save weight and ensure a harmonious balance of axle load, selected components on BMW Concept 1 Series tii are made of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFP): Apart from the engine compartment lid and the mirror caps, the inlays on the side air intakes in the front air dam, the gurney flap on the rear lid, and the inlay in the rear bumper are all made of this extremely light and exceptionally strong material.

From a distance the components made of CFP would appear to be black – it is only at closer sight that the fine carbon-fibre structure of the surface covered by transparent, matt paintwork becomes visible. The dark surface of the CFP engine compartment lid reduces the reflection of sunlight and promotes driver concentration in the process. The wide, white sunglare strip at the top end of the windscreen serves the same purpose, preventing any dazzle effect when the sun is low on the horizon.

Black, white and blue – typical BMW colours all the way.

The contrasting effect resulting from the Alpine White paintwork and the dark CFP components results from fundamental functional requirements. But at the same time this contrasting colour scheme is also a major styling feature characterising the look and appearance of BMW Concept 1 Series tii. Indeed, to really accentuate the appearance of the car, BMW Concept 1 Series tii comes with decal stripes extending from the front headlight units all the way to the air flow lip on the rear lid, the gurney made of CFP and particularly large in size covering the entire body of the car. On the engine compartment the stripes come in white, on the roof and the rear lid they continue in black.

A third colour is used at less exposed points to provide yet another optical highlight: This is the colour blue proudly displayed on the brake callipers, on one of the five wheel bolts on each rim, and on the towing fixture in the front air dam which – as is generally the case with cars in motorsport – is not covered by a cap or seal.

The contrast of black and white and the discreet use of features finished in blue creates a trinity of colours also taken up by the exterior and generating an extroverted but well-balanced effect also because the choice of colours is the same as on BMW’s brand logo, thus bearing clear testimony to a great heritage.

Front-end design: aerodynamics optimised to the last detail.

Not only the colour scheme, but also the design of the car sets BMW Concept 1 Series tii distinctly apart from the standard versions of the BMW 1 Series Coupé. Indeed, the unique character and class of the design study is visible immediately from every angle and perspective: Apart from the components made of CFP, the front air dam, the side-sills and the rear bumper as well as the rear lid are all brand-new in design. The objective in this design process was to optimise the car’s aerodynamic qualities, consistently reflecting the extremely dynamic commitment of BMW Concept 1 Series tii.

To meet the particular requirements made of such a car, the structure of the front air dam differs significantly from the air dam in regular production models: The particularly muscular side air intakes are coated inside with CFP and the front air dam comes on both sides with so-called air splitters.

These air guidance elements standing out slightly to the front ensure a specific downward flow of air, part of the air flow going into the side intakes, the rest beneath the car.

Yet another feature carried over from motorsport and serving to optimise the flow of air is the arrangement of fins on the engine compartment lid.

These air guidance strips extending along the outer edges of the engine compartment lid promote the car’s aerodynamic qualities and enhance driving stability at high speeds. The positive effect ensured in this way was already proven back in the mid-1970s on the BMW 3.0 CSL.

The BMW kidney grille also comes in special design on BMW Concept 1 Series tii, omitting the kidney grille bars otherwise found on the BMW 1 Series Coupé and other production models. Instead, the cooling air flowing into the car goes through a wide honeycomb grid.

Yet a further sign of distinction is the dark trim bars on the headlights additionally highlighting the striking dual round headlights behind clear glass so typical of BMW.

Side view: classic silhouette, muscular design.

The BMW 1 Series Coupé comes with all the proportions so characteristic of BMW Coupés for many decades. The defining feature is the so-called three-box architecture, the clearly chiselled distinction between the engine compartment, the passenger cell, and the luggage compartment.

Together with the greenhouse moved far to the back and the gently tapered roofline extending to the rear end at a striking angle, the long engine compartment lid gives the car a truly unmistakable silhouette. The combination of the muscular car body and the light-looking roof structure, finally, gives this compact two-door a particularly dynamic and sporting look from the side.

The side view of BMW Concept 1 Series tii is further enhanced in its sportiness by the side-sills developed specifically for this design study:

The side-sills are particularly muscular in design, the light contour edge rising slightly towards the rear accentuating the wedge shape of the silhouette and giving the entire car an even lower and more dynamic look.

The round opening in the side-sills directly in front of the rear wheel also provides a clear sign of sporting performance, acting as a further element in optimising the flow of air and at the same time guiding the beholder’s view to the rear wheels, where the power of the engine is conveyed to the road.

BMW Concept 1 Series tii comes on 18-inch light-alloy rims in five-spoke design and a dark chrome colour scheme developed specifically for this design study.

Perfect flow of air determining the design of the rear end.

This clear focus on optimum aerodynamics continues into the design of the rear end, where the body of BMW Concept 1 Series tii is again specially designed for a smooth flow of air and the specific requirements of outstanding driving dynamics. The air contour lip on the rear lid, the so-called gurney, is far larger than on the “regular” BMW 1 Series Coupé. Indeed, through its shape and dimensions this component also made of CFP offers all the qualities required for generating maximum downforce on the rear axle at high speeds to give the car even greater driving stability.

The inlay in the rear bumper is likewise made of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic, its three-piece structure taking up the graphics of the air intakes at the front end of the car. The diffuser split by two bars, in turn, ensures a controlled flow of air also along the lower part of the car, reducing air swirl at the rear to a minimum.

Interior design continuing the car’s sporting line.

The interior of BMW Concept 1 Series tii is certainly an ideal place to experience pure driving pleasure, with the emphasis consistently on sporting qualities and performance. This is borne out, first, by the colour scheme carried over from the exterior and, second, by a wide range of features derived directly from motorsport and thus offering supreme function in perfect control and management of the car.

While the interior takes up the black-and-white contrast of the car’s exterior finish, the balance of colours is precisely the other way round: Like the dark CFP elements on the exterior, white-painted surfaces inside the car add highlights at a few carefully selected points – the grab handles on the doors and the spokes on the sports steering wheel. Even so, the visual effect created in this way is striking and powerful, since these features are not only important eye-catchers, but are actually used relatively often in practice.

The colour blue provides a clear focus on the driver within the interior, blue seat seams and a blue decal ring at the bottom of the gearshift lever knob providing visual highlights most befitting the BMW brand. A further point is that the seat belt on the driver’s seat also comes in this colour.

The seat belts on the other three seats, by contrast, are in silver, which is also the colour of the seat seams. Clearly, this distinction is restricted to the look of the seat belts as an eye-twinkling sign as to which of the four seats is the most appealing in a car of this nature.

Tailored to the driver, built for driving pleasure.

The interior design of BMW Concept 1 Series tii is tailored specifically to the driver, applying principles known to offer an intense and successful driving experience also in motorsport.

Dominant use of dark colours within the interior, for example, makes it easier for the driver to concentrate fully on the road and the traffic around him.

The surface trim on the A-pillars and roof lining in anthracite forms one unit with the instrument panel, the door and side panels.

Finished in black alcantara, the instrument panel – like the dark engine compartment lid on BMW Concept 1 Series tii – helps efficiently to avoid any reflection of light which might impair the driver’s concentration.

The design of the instrument cluster also reflects the usual style and focus in motorsport, the white face of the rev counter with its red indicators attracting even more attention than the dark face on the speedometer.

The sports steering wheel is the perfect interface between man and machine. Finished in alcantara all round, the steering wheel rim offers particularly good grip, giving the driver maximum precision at the wheel even in fast manoeuvres and when suddenly changing direction.

The seats in BMW Concept 1 Series tii are yet another new development for sports motoring: Finished in a combination of alcantara and leather, the sports bucket seats offer perfect stability at the side. Further highlights are the integrated headrests and side airbags. And last but not least in this context, the rear passengers also enjoy a sporting and low seating position.

The model designation on the door cutout strips rounds off the individual ambience within BMW Concept 1 Series tii. The linings in the footwells, finally, are made of a new, particularly hard-wearing textile tissue reminiscent in its surface structure of the CFP components.

Traditional values, modern concept, unique result.

Outside and inside, from every perspective and in all its details, BMW Concept 1 Series tii conveys a clear message: the objective to offer uncompromising driving pleasure.

So in developing this design study, BMW’s engineers, designers and other specialists took the opportunity to combine traditional values with the latest technology. In the process they benefited from the new BMW 1 Series Coupé offering a modern car concept authentically presenting the sporting roots of the brand.

Precisely this is the underlying character further enhanced by BMW Concept 1 Series tii following a clear-cut philosophy with no cause for moderation – on the contrary: BMW Concept 1 Series tii shows impressively which highlights were applied in the car’s development and what potential the BMW 1 Series Coupé has to offer in terms of sporting performance.

The looks and appearance of BMW Concept 1 Series tii bear out all the fascination of motorpsort, the heritage of the BMW brand giving the designers additional inspiration. In particular, they focused in the design process on BMW’s compact two-door models in the 1960s and ‘70s, cars which at the time made an important contribution to the development of the brand and BMW as a company, becoming the very epitome of unparalleled driving pleasure.

Indeed, these cars owed their success to features typical of BMW even at the time and still offering a unique thrill today: low weight, powerful engines, supreme agility.

These factors for success therefore still apply in today’s world. But at the same time the demands made by the customer have changed significantly, as have the potentials offered by modern technology and BMW’s model range.

The number of segments in which BMW is represented today is larger than ever before. So the brand offers Sheer Driving Pleasure in all kinds of different manifestations. But the concept of Sheer Driving Pleasure remains just as up-to-date and popular as before, coming out particularly in the BMW 1 Series Coupé: No other car offers equally dynamic driving characteristics, simply because no other brand offers comparable heritage and experience in the production of sporting and compact two-door models.

And this makes it all the more logical and tempting to enhance the fascinating character of this model with utmost consistency in the guise of BMW Concept 1 Series tii.

2007 Tokyo Auto Show Preview: Mitsubishi Concept-ZT

TOKYO — One look at Mitsubishi's unimaginative Concept-ZT should convince any doubters that this Japanese automaker just doesn't design great sedans. Under the skin, it's a different story.

The Concept-ZT is slightly larger than the Galant, but its bland styling hardly justifies its positioning by Mitsubishi as a "premier sedan." Of considerable interest to techies, however, is the car's aluminum space-frame construction and use of high-strength recyclable plastic for the hood, fenders, doors and deck lid. The Concept-ZT also employs "green" plastic throughout the cabin, which — fortunately — is also trimmed in wood, metal and leather.

Powering the car is a new DOHC 2.2-liter four-cylinder "clean diesel" mated to the new twin-clutch SST gearbox that is also featured in the redesigned Evo. The engine makes 188 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, and drives all four wheels through Mitsubishi's sophisticated S-AWC system. The Concept-ZT rides on alloy wheels shod with 255/35R20 tires.


What this means to you: It's not much to look at, but the tech features in the Concept-ZT could make your future car cleaner, safer and more environmentally friendly.

Chevrolet Volt and Holden EFIJY - 2007 Concept Vehicle of the Year

The Chevrolet Volt concept was awarded today the 2007 North American Specialty Concept Vehicle of the Year and the Most Significant Concept Vehicle of the Year at an awards ceremony at the Automotive Hall of Fame in Dearborn. The Holden EFIJY won the 2007 North American Concept Car of the Year Award.

The North American Concept Vehicle of the Year Awards is at its seix edition and recognize those vehicles most likely to shape the future of the automobile industry. Bob Boniface, director, GM advanced design, and Chevrolet Volt lead designer, accepted the awards on behalf of GM.

"We appreciate this recognition from such a prestigious group of automotive journalists," said Boniface. "The Volt is an important vehicle for GM and for the world. Whether your concern is energy security, CO2 emissions or reducing our dependence on oil, it all leads to energy diversity. GM wants to be a part of the solution, that’s why we designed the Chevrolet Volt concept."

Other nominees from GM included the Chevrolet Beat, Chevrolet Groove, Chevrolet T2X, Chevrolet Trax, Chevrolet WTCC, Saturn Vue Plug-In Hybrid, and the Chevrolet Camaro Convertible.

Source: Internal

Weber Carbon-Fiber Concept

MONACO — Top Marques Monaco is the show that tops them all. It is only about the fastest, most exclusive sports cars in the world. And it is the perfect venue to introduce new ideas.

The Swiss company Weber Sportcars had announced in advance that it would unveil an entirely self-developed carbon-fiber car at the show. The reality exceeded even the wildest expectations with an organic, and completely individual — one might say bizarre — appearance.

The 177.2-inch two-seater measures 80.3 inches wide and 45.3 inches high. The entire car was designed and built in-house, including the 143-pound aluminum chassis and carbon-fiber body.

Under the tweaked hood lurks a supercharged 900-horsepower, 7.0-liter engine. Its 775 pound-feet of torque enables the 2,425-pound coupe to get from zero to 60 mph in 2.5 seconds. Top speed is claimed to be over 249 mph.

There are four fuel tanks that will hold a total of 29 gallons of gasoline — which we'll bet a driver can go through quickly at the speeds at which this car would be driven.

Pricing of the forthcoming car has not yet been made public, but it has been revealed that standard spec will include active four-wheel drive, traction control, a rearview camera and a rain sensor.

Porsche 911 996 Top Art Concept Design by Bogdan Urdea

(from Top Art) TOP ART AUTOMOTIVE DESIGN, Romania; designer Bogdan Urdea

The custom bodykit has brand-based inhouse design and top-tuners influences, mixed along with a personal touch. A new aggressive street based look, aiming to be more a comprehensive tuned serious facelift than a simple reinterpreted bodykit. Its main characteristics: flowing edges and curves, slick design continuing and enhancing its stock one of a kind shape.

Versions / interpretations:
Silver neutral
Orange “mission virtual to real plus”
Romanian police pursuit vehicle

Modifications:
Front and rear spoilers redesigned, with aerodynamic extractor and diffuser

Side skirts, new rear wheel wings/arches for a better admission

New hood and rear aileron with direct air flow for the turbo intercoolers

Reshaped mirrors

Panoramic view thanks to the new roof top that integrates an extra carbon fiber direct air flow for the engine compartment

Vertical doors kit

All new elements made of carbon fiber

20’ custom wheels (with Porsche logo integrated as design element for spokes)

Yokohama Advan tires

LED front signals/rear lights

Big brake kit, sport suspension, modified exhaust, upgraded engine specs

Interior changes based on carbon fiber/black leather with a new multimedia surround sound system (amplifiers, subwoofers, speakers, central DVD screen and rear camera)

Chevrolet Volt E-Flex Concept at the 2007 Shanghai Auto Show

E-Flex Hydrogen Fuel Cell Continues Move Toward Electric Drive
General Motors Unveils Second Propulsion System for Chevrolet Volt

SHANGHAI - GM's global commitment to developing transportation that reduces oil use and promotes energy diversity continued today at the Shanghai Auto Show with the unveiling of the next iteration of the E-Flex electric architecture, configured with GM's newest, most efficient hydrogen fuel cell system to date.

This second variant of the E-Flex system uses GM's new fifth-generation fuel cell propulsion technology and a lithium-ion battery to provide up to 300 miles (483 km) of petroleum- and emissions-free electric driving. The fuel cell E-Flex is a true Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) and operates all-electric from both hydrogen fuel cell-generated electricity and grid electricity. It is plug-in capable, adding up to 20 additional miles (34 km) each time it is charged, further reducing trips to the refueling station.

The E-Flex system is a flexible all-electric production vehicle architecture that can be configured to run on electricity from a number of sources. It was first shown in January at the North American International Auto Show in the Chevrolet Volt concept vehicle. The Volt is a battery electric vehicle with 40 miles of all electric-range and uses a small bio-fuel engine with a generator to extend its range to 640 miles (1030 km).

"The beauty of our E-Flex strategy is that it allows us to package various propulsion systems into the same space depending on what energy is available locally," said Larry Burns, GM's vice president of Research and Development and Strategic Planning. "It also provides flexibility in the sources of energy. We can obtain hydrogen or electricity from a myriad of renewable sources - wind, solar, geothermal, hydroelectric and biofuels - or from traditional sources such as natural gas, clean coal, nuclear or even gasoline.

"E-Flex provides flexibility in two ways: in the propulsion systems that can be used, and in the sources of energy that can be commercialized to compete with oil and meet global transportation growth in a sustainable way."

Independent studies indicate hydrogen fuel cell vehicles offer superior overall efficiency and fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to internal combustion engines running on gasoline, when considering both the creation of the energy and its use in the vehicle.

GM's fifth-generation fuel cell system is half the size of its predecessor, yet it provides the same power and performance. The fourth generation currently powers the Chevrolet Sequel concept vehicle. The Sequel stores 8 kg of hydrogen and delivers a range of 300 miles (483 km). The fuel cell Volt will also deliver 300 miles of range, but with only 4.0 kg of hydrogen (75 miles / kg).

GM's advancements are a strong indication that our fuel cell technology has the potential to be a competitive alternative to the internal combustion engine - in size, performance, durability and cost.

"Our progress has made us increasingly confident that our fuel cell propulsion system will be automotive-competitive," said Burns. "But before this technology can be made widely available, governments, energy suppliers and infrastructure companies around the world need to collaborate with GM and the auto industry to develop a market for fuel cell vehicles and hydrogen fuel."

A variety of technological advancements and lightweight materials contribute to the efficiency of the Volt. With an estimated curb weight of 3,500 pounds (1,588 kg), it weighs 30 percent less than the Sequel. The fuel cell propulsion system is packaged entirely under the hood and is equivalent in size to a four-cylinder engine with automatic transmission. The Volt also features molded GE plastic panels on the fenders, window glazings, instrument panel and steering wheel, which offer between 30 percent and 50 percent weight reduction per part.

The E-Flex fuel cell variant also showcases GM's third-generation wheel hub motors, packaged inside the rear wheel to add considerable torque for all-wheel electric drive capability. The new coreless motor technology reduces mass and produces more power compared to the first generation shown in 2003.

2007 Shanghai Auto Show: Buick Riviera Concept Debuts

Live from Shanghai Auto Show: Buick Riviera Concept