Jalopnik: Concept car

Mystery Corvette Concept From Transformers 2 Movie Gets New Beauty Shots, Multiplies!

Ray Wert — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 15:04:10 EDT

Remember that mystery Corvette concept we saw last month getting painted by the folks at Saleen for the new Transformers movie, Revenge of the Fallen? We've got new pictures of it today thanks to our friends over at the Don Murphy board by way of Seibertron. These new shots show not only the Corvette concept in all its silver-skinned beauty, but also show off the entire Autobot team, just sitting around and lounging about in the sun. There's the Beat and Trax, and Optimus and Ironhide and...man, we wish we had a job like that. But wait, is that another one behind it? What's going on? Anyone out there have any more details?

[Don Murphy via Seibertron]

Saab 9-X BioHybrid Wins Specialty Concept Of The Year

Travis Hudson — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 14:40:00 EDT

The Saab 9-X BioHybrid has been crowned as the coolest car to never actually exist by 25 professional auto journalists at the Automotive Hall of Fame. The award, better known as the "Specialty Concept Car of the Year," was bestowed upon the 9-X BioHybrid due to its ultra-efficient 200 HP 1.4-liter BioPower turbo hybrid engine. Not only were the underhood goods touted, but the panel of journalists also loved how purty the 9-X BioHybrid looks, with its electronic power-sliding floor, ambient light design, instrument panel and more. Click through for the full release.

Saab 9-X BioHybrid Honored at Automotive Hall of Fame
Detroit - Already labeled "Best Concept" by AutoWeek Magazine upon its world debut at the Geneva auto show last March, the Saab 9-X BioHybrid has been voted "Specialty Concept Car of the Year" by a jury of 25 professional North American automotive journalists. The award ceremony took place at the Automotive Hall of Fame in Dearborn, Michigan.

Now in its 7th rendition, the annual Concept Car of the Year Awards recognize those vehicles that are most likely to shape the future of the automobile industry. The winners were selected from 40 concept cars and 12 production preview vehicles that made their North American debut during the 2008 auto show season.

"The Saab 9-X BioHybrid blends organic form with ecologically sound propulsion for both aesthetic and environmental appeal", said jury panel member Arv Voss of Auto Impressions. Added Bob Kroupa of the Automotive Writers Group: "Saab takes center stage with a new design approach for a compact vehicle. With the BioHybrid turbo engine included, we have a winner".

"We are honored by this important recognition from an expert North American media organization," said Saab Automobile USA marketing director Roger McCormack accepting the award. "As we witnessed first hand from public reactions at the New York auto show, the 9-X BioHybrid Concept has exceeded many optimistic expectations. Following in the footsteps of the highly inspirational Aero X, and the 9-4X BioPower crossover concept which also debuted earlier this year, the 9-X BioHybrid demonstrates that Saab is truly on the move."

The 9-X BioHybrid is a vivid vision of what a future compact car from Saab could look like. It is designed to reflect the priorities of youthful customers who seek progressive looks, responsible performance and high-tech communications, all in a sporty, fun-to-drive package.

Exploring design themes from Saab's award-winning Aero X and earlier 9X concepts, the 9-X BioHybrid also demonstrates the potential for ultra-efficient power from a 200 hp (147 kW), 1.4-liter BioPower turbo engine backed by GM's next-generation hybrid system. Projected combined cycle CO2 emissions of just 105 g/km on E85 fuel are testimony to the promise of this package.

The interior showcases an entirely new expression of Saab's driver-focused cockpit design, together with innovative, seamless connectivity for personal nomadic devices and a rear cargo deck with a 'low friction' loading system.

"This car is all about efficiency in design and performance," says Anthony Lo, director of Advanced Design at General Motors Europe, who led the 9-X BioHybrid design team in co-operation with the Saab Brand Center in Sweden.

With its 'turbine' wheels placed at all four corners, minimal bodywork overhangs and an extended roof line, the proportions of the three-door Saab 9-X BioHybrid bring a dynamic, new dimension to conventional compact 'hatchback' looks.

The smooth 'fuselage' bodywork, now without any visible handles or door mirrors, the bold 'wraparound' window graphic and deep front grille are all themes inspired by the Aero X coupe concept shown at Geneva two years ago.

The car's distinctive 'shooting brake' silhouette and rear functionality are developed from the 9X multi-role concept shown at Frankfurt in 2001. "You could say we designed this car from back to front," says Lo. "The shape of the 9X is right for a car of this size, and the longer roof line helps the aerodynamics as well as providing more rear headroom and interior space."

Echoing Saab's roots in aircraft design, the 9-X BioHybrid also explores the potential for using active aerodynamics to reduce drag - and fuel consumption - at cruising speeds. Above 70 kph (43 mph), the upper and lower bodywork is reshaped as the roof spoiler automatically extends to further lengthen the roof line and an underbody diffuser is deployed from the bottom of the rear bumper.

The four-seater cabin introduces an entirely new execution of Saab's driver-focused cockpit design. The central, floor-mounted console, with its angled controls and displays, is now eliminated. Instead, the driver-focused layout incorporates a main instrument panel that sweeps out from the top of the door moulding, arching across the driver. The embedded 3-D graphics appear to be 'frozen' in ice, continuing a Scandinavian design theme first seen in the Aero X.

Reflecting the needs of youthful customers, who expect easy access to multi-media both inside and outside the car, Saab has co-operated with Sony Ericsson in providing seamless in-car connectivity for a range of nomadic devices. The result is a wireless interface for streaming data, entertainment and satellite navigation functions for display and use. The interface also allows the simultaneous use of multiple devices when passengers are in the car.

At the rear, the cargo deck features an electrically-powered slide-out floor, which is activated when the bottom half of the split tailgate drops down. The floor, and the back of the folding rear seats, is covered by 'high friction' rubber carpeting, which 'grips' items and holds them securely in place. For easy loading and unloading, aluminum bars automatically rise up and down as the tailgate is opened and closed.

The treatment of light is an important part of Scandinavian design and this is evident in the use of variable, white ambient lighting inside the cabin. The level of suffused illumination can be changed in intensity from bright, cold to warm and soft. It's a personalized feature that could even be programmed, for example, to reflect the pattern of the changing seasons

"This car shows how our concept work can be carried forward into a compact format," adds Anthony Lo. "It has a number of features which we will be developing further, such as the new driver-focused design theme, the importance of clean, uncluttered surfaces and the easy, seamless connectivity inside the car."

BMW Partially Reveals The GINA Light Visionary Model Concept In Web Video

Matt Hardigree — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 11:40:00 EDT

Though it isn't set to be revealed to the motoring press until tomorrow, we have this exclusive video of a new concept car from Bayerische Motoren Werke AG. It's called the GINA Light Visionary Model, and it's being transported to the BMW Museum in Munich. You can just see the edges of the new concept in the footage, as well as a Knight Rider-esque lightbar in the tail. We're gathering details on what it actually is, other than a two-seater roadster (or maybe even a one-seater, who can tell with all that camouflage?) we're told is both visionary and light. Also, it'll be fully revealed on June 10th. We'll be watching, if only to see BMW's GINA first-hand and up close and to see if it's as tight as other BMW concepts we've come to know and love.

[ Veoh.com]

Raymond Loewy Designed 1959 Cadillac Eldorado For Sale

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 29 May 2008 12:45:00 EDT

Raymond Loewy is one of those industrial design legends who has no problem maintaining a spot in the pantheon of automotive history. The design lead for Studebaker during the post war years, Loewy and Virgil Exner, another luminary, were responsible for some of the most forward thinking and trend setting designs of the time. Loewy didn't just do work for a broad range of customers, including NASA, he also did stuff for himself. This self-commissioned 1959 Cadillac Eldorado was designed with nobody but himself in mind, and it's now on the world's largest auction block.

Here's what the seller has to say about this unique automobile:

Purchased new in 1959 by design and styling legend Raymond Loewy and shipped to his coachbuilder, Pichon-Parat of France. After it's transformation, it was painted in light blue/green metallic paint with a white roof and used by Loewy and his family forEuropean trips. It returned to New York, thereafter, to Loewy's principal residence and eventually was relocated to his Palm Springs, California residence. After clocking up approximately 41,000 kilometers, it was sold to his next door neighbor in January of 1971, and was stored until approximately 1989 when it was sold to it's third owner-a European collector. It has just been released from this collection and is now available for sale. Raymond Loewy last drove this vehicle, with the original mileage of approximately 41,000 kilometers still unchanged.

Quite a find and even though it's in a bit of rough shape, it looks to be very complete. Check out how the grille is perforated into the front of the hood — never saw that trick before. While its styling is certainly not for everyone, this Caddy is pretty damned unique. Then again, it better be. The "buy it now" price on this little slice of history is $650,000. Don't all rush the stage at once folks. (Is anyone surprised Junkman sent this tip in?) [eBay Listing]

Fiat Phylla Concept Is Green, Uses Frame Resembling Board Of Skating

Ben Wojdyla — Wed, 28 May 2008 10:00:00 EDT

We're already tired of all the "green" concepts from makers from Audi to Zap — mostly because we'd like some real alternatives rather than just pie-in-the-sky concepts — but with the one-two combo of gas prices and "the green marketing movement" it's not likely to end any time soon. Then there's Fiat — an automaker breaking the mold of creating new concepts and just recycling concepts first rolled out in 2002, almost down to the system. Back then it was called the GM Autonomy. This time it's named the Fiat Phylla, and it boasts a "split-frame" design (not a skateboard), roof mounted photovoltaics, motors at each wheel and a flexible design capable of supporting power sources like batteries, super capacitors, fuel cells and the like.

On top of the energy usage side, the Phylla is completely recyclable and made with a mix of aluminum, biodegradable plastics and all kinds of other green stuff. Though it is a joint effort from multiple design schools along with Fiat research center, we can't help but think this baby needs a heaping helping of Hayabusa engines. They still have time to make the necessary changes, it's still all digital at the moment. Fiat, listen, you used to make turbine-powered concepts, why not go retro? Who knows, perhaps we can actually make a real alternative see the light of day, rather than just the lights of the show floor and concept studio. [CarBodyDesign]

1970 Porsche Tapiro Concept

Ben Wojdyla — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 13:40:00 EDT

Does the BMW M1 Homage concept we saw yesterday try just a little too hard to impress? Does a bear shit in the woods? The gaping maw of modern styling is chewing through heritage designs at an astonishing rate, and starting to look at eras not often remembered fondly for its great cars. Just because the malaise era produced blasé cars doesn't mean there wasn't cool styling. It was 1970 and a young Giorgetto Giugiaro had joined Ital Design and, as his fourth concept car, produced the Porsche Tapiro. The Tapiro was based on the Porsche 914/6 but managed to break all of the Porsche molds.

It featured gull wing doors up front with a radical cut line around the windshield, and matching gull wings over the cargo area. The car had a longitudinally mounted air-cooled 2.4 liter flat 6 good for 220 HP and a 4 speed manual. Though it never really was intended for production, it's got all those great Italian styling elements from the era - wedge shape, enough glass for a dolphin aquarium, scant use of chrome, and plenty of nice geometrically shaped air ducting. If BMW wants to play around with styling elements of the seventies, they should feel free, just as long as they don't forget the stuff that was actually cool. [LotusEspritTurbo]

Tokyo Auto Show Preview: Audi A1 Metroproject Quattro Concept Car

Ray Wert — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 17:15:00 EDT

UPDATE: Our gallery issue has been fixed. So check out that A1 again. Much of the speculation is now over as Audi's just let loose some details and a slew of pictures on their new A1 concept car for the Tokyo Auto Show. It's called the A1 Metroproject Quattro, and it's the same A1 plug-in hybrid concept car we told you we were expecting to see in Japan just a month or so ago. Under the hood is a 150 bhp 1.4-liter TFSI engine with power directed to the front wheels through an S-tronic dual-clutch gearbox. But wait, here's the cool part. There's a 41 HP electric motor right atop the rear axle delivering an additional load of torque on those rear wheels when you put the foot down. This A1 is a true plug-in hybrid, with the electric motor capable of powering the concept car on its own in urban areas for up to 62 miles in pure electric mode and the motor can be recharged from any power socket. On the interior you've got a radio system that looks very much like the radio from the Camaro concept car (why? We've no idea) and a very interesting cell phone thing (more on that shortly). We're looking forward to seeing this bad boy live next week.

Because our galleries are all fubar at the moment, hit the jump for another picture.

Tokyo Auto Show Preview: Toyota 1/X Concept Car

Ray Wert — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 09:15:00 EDT

No, it's not the mulatto-mobile. This black-and-white four-door Prius-looking vehicle is the second concept car for the 2007 Tokyo Auto Show from the number one super best automaker from the land of the rising sun. It's called the 1/X and other than a name that also happens to have been the answer to a problem in the math section of the SAT (yes, we had the SAT way back then too), it's also pronounced 1/Xth — which we're told can be used as part of a sentence that goes: "The 1/X weighs 1/3 as much as a Toyota Prius and therefore emits only 1/3 of the emissions." All we know is the SAT flashback just gave us a huge case of the willies. Full 1/x-sized press release after the jump.

1/X
The 1/X (pronounced "one-Xth") is a concept vehicle that redefines from its very roots the idea of what it means to be environmentally considerate. Among its attributes, the vehicle-with a design that aims to harmoniously coexist with people and society-weighs only "1/Xth" that of other vehicles in its class.

* Maintains an interior space on par with that of the Prius, with an aimed-for fuel efficiency that is double and a weight reduced to 420 kilograms (about one third the weight of the Prius).
* Combines fossil fuel consumption-reducing FFV* technology and a plug-in hybrid powertrain with a displacement of only 500cc that allows charging from an external power source and a longer electric-motor cruising distance; thus, in addition to being adapted for energy diversity, emits less CO2 and contributes to the prevention of air pollution.
* Locates the power unit beneath the rear seat (for a midship, rear-wheel-drive system) to contribute to an innovative and highly efficient package.
* Adopts light but highly rigid carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) throughout the body frame to ensure superior collision safety, while allowing narrower pillars for a better field of vision.

Tokyo Auto Show: Subaru G4e Concept Car

Ray Wert — Tue, 09 Oct 2007 10:15:00 EDT

Step one in the Tokyo Auto Show wagon domination plot was the new Subaru WRX Sti, step two was the EXIGA seven-seater concept and now step three is to go small with the Subaru G4e concept hatchback. And not only is this hatchback tiny, it's also big in both green and passenger seating — at least according to the press release from Subie. They claim this little four-door electric car will seat up to five passengers, go 120+ miles per charge and turn water into wine. That's right, it's the JesusHatch. We'll see it in person in just a couple of weeks at its official reveal at the 2007 Tokyo Auto Show.

Tokyo Auto Show Preview: Nissan Pivo 2 Concept Car, Now With Video!

Ray Wert — Fri, 05 Oct 2007 07:45:00 EDT

It's adorable, it's blue — no, wait, it's adorable and blue! It's the Pivo 2, complete with robotic agent and powered by Lithium-ion batteries. Now, when we first revealed the new Pivo 2 concept car this morning, we saw it as nothing more than a more bubbly version of the old Pivo. Now that we've seen this video of the Pivo 2 swallowing its gal pal whole and then watching the robotic agent in action, we totally want one. If only so we can have highly enlightened conversations in both Japanese and English with our new blue friend. Nissan better hide the keys so we don't steal it at the official reveal at the Tokyo Auto Show later this month.

Opel Flextreme Diesel-Hybrid E-Flex Concept Car Leaks Out Before Frankfurt Auto Show

Ray Wert — Fri, 07 Sep 2007 18:30:00 EDT

Much to the chagrin of the folks at the General, it would appear shots of the not-even-embargoed Opel E-Flex platformed concept car have made it out onto the internet well before the Frankfurt Auto Show. Ah, you've got to love the internet. Or not. Either way, courtesy of the English kids at CarScoop, here's the hot load of diesel-powered Opel concept hotness, and below the jump we've got what they're telling us about this leaked concept car:

Chevrolet's electric powered Volt Concept has just discovered its European alter ego in the form of Opel's, Frankfurt Show E-Flex Concept. The two concepts share the same basic architecture underneath their differently styled bodies. The only variation is that, whereas the Volt was equipped with a turbocharged, 1.0lt, three-cylinder gasoline engine, the E-Flex takes advantage of Opel's 1.3lt turbo diesel engine. However, the basic principles remain the same as both models are powered by a front-mounted electric motor that runs on electric power until the Lithium-ion batteries are drained out.
Once that batteries are dead, the diesel engine kicks in to "feed" the onboard generator producing electricity while the car is operating. The electricity is then stored in the batteries. As with the Volt, the E-Flex's Lithium-ion batteries can be recharged by plugging into an electrical outlet. We'll have more on the E-Flex as soon as Opel releases all the details.

[via CarScoop]

Volvo ReCharge Plug-In Hybrid Concept Car

Ray Wert — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 05:51:33 EDT

It's called the ReCharge, a concept car from Volvo to be unveiled officially next week at the Frankfurt Auto Show, it's a plug-in hybrid with a battery-only range of 100 km before you need to have the car's four-cylinder 1.6-liter Flexfuel engine kick in to power the car and recharge the battery. The ReCharge is built off a specially designed Volvo C30, meaning it's got a platform that doesn't need to be built from scratch — boosting the possibility we could see something like it really hit the streets. The best news would be for the environment which would see "about 66% lower emissions of carbon dioxide compared with the best hybrid cars available on the market today." We can already hear the birds singing. Full press release after the jump. UPDATE: First video of the Volvo ReCharge just posted here.

Volvo ReCharge Concept: Plug-in hybrid with battery-only range of 100 km - and Flexifuel engine for backup power
Volvo Cars is introducing the Volvo ReCharge Concept, a plug-in hybrid with individual electric wheel motors and batteries that can be recharged via a regular electrical outlet for maximum environmental benefit. Recharging allows the car to be driven about 100 kilometres on battery power alone before the car's four-cylinder Flexifuel engine is needed to power the car and recharge the battery. Volvo ReCharge Concept makes its debut in a specially designed Volvo C30 at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

"A certain proportion of electrical vehicles will be necessary to meet the CO2 emission demands of the future. Since the Volvo ReCharge Concept combines an excellent battery range with a backup combustion engine, it is a very interesting concept," says Magnus Jonsson, Senior Vice President Research and Development at Volvo Cars. The ReCharge Concept has been developed at the Volvo Monitoring and Concept Center (VMCC), the Volvo Car Corporation's think-tank in Camarillo, California.
"This is a ground-breaking innovation for sustainable transportation. A person driving less than 100 kilometres a day will rarely need to visit a filling station. In the USA, this may apply to almost 80 percent of drivers," says Magnus Jonsson. Thanks to the excellent electrical range from a fuel consumption angle, the Volvo ReCharge Concept is exceptionally kind to the car owner's wallet. When driving on electric power only, operating costs are expected to be about 80 percent lower than that of a comparable petrol-powered car. When driving beyond the 100 km battery range, fuel consumption may vary from 0 to 5.5 litres per 100 km depending on the distance driven using the engine.

"This plug-in hybrid car, when used as intended, should have about 66 percent lower emissions of carbon dioxide compared with the best hybrid cars available on the market today. Emissions may be even lower if most of the electricity in intended markets comes from CO2-friendly sources such as biogas, hydropower and nuclear power," says Magnus Jonsson.

An electric motor at each wheel
The Volvo ReCharge Concept combines a number of the latest technological innovations into a so-called "series hybrid" where there is no mechanical connection between the engine and the wheels.
The battery pack integrated into the luggage compartment uses lithium-polymer battery technology. The batteries are intended to have a useful life beyond that of the car itself. Four electric motors, one at each wheel, provide independent traction power. Four-cylinder 1.6-litre Flexifuel engine drives an advanced generator that efficiently powers the wheel motors when the battery is depleted.

Electric car with a combustion engine as backup
In principle, the Volvo ReCharge Concept is a battery electric car with an efficient generator, an Auxiliary Power Unit (APU), that steps in when battery charge becomes insufficient for adequate driving performance. The APU is designed to distribute electrical power to the individual motors at each wheel. Since the combustion engine only powers the APU, it can operate in an optimal fashion, both for regulated emissions and CO2. The APU is sufficiently powerful to supply an entire villa with electricity. For example it could with minor modifications in principle give the car owner an electricity generator right at his front door in the event of a power failure.

The driver can choose the power source
The combustion engine starts up automatically when 70 percent of the battery power has been used up. However, the driver also has the option of controlling the four-cylinder Flexifuel engine manually via a button in the instrument panel.

This allows the driver to start the engine earlier in order to maximize battery charge, for instance when out on the highway in order to save battery capacity for driving through the next town.

"There is a considerable difference between our plug-in hybrid and today's hybrids. Today's hybrids use the battery only for short periods to assist the combustion engine. Our solution is designed for most people to run on electric power all the time, while providing the extra security that comes with having a combustion engine as a secondary source of electrical power," says Ichiro Sugioka, project manager for the Volvo ReCharge Concept. He adds: "What is more, our C30 with plug-in hybrid technology retains its lively and sporty driving properties. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes 9 seconds and top speed is 160 km/h."

Specially developed electric motors
The central electrical components in the Volvo ReCharge Concept demonstrator - the generator for the APU and the wheel motors - were developed together with British electromagnetic specialists PML Flightlink.

With an individual electric motor at each wheel, weight distribution as well as mechanical efficiency and traction are maximized. The friction in mechanical gears is eliminated. Since the car does not have the transmission found in ordinary cars, there is no need for a gear lever. To help maximize the environmental benefits, the Volvo ReCharge Concept has high-efficiency tyres developed by Michelin. They are specially designed to accommodate the wheelmotors. Further more, the car has All Wheel Drive in the truest sense of the term. Power to each wheel is controlled individually.

The energy that is generated during braking is transmitted to the battery pack. When the system is ultimately developed, traditional wheel brakes will be completely replaced by electrical brakes with minimal energy wasted through friction. To ensure reliable operation of the drivetrain and braking system, driver inputs are fed into a quadruple-redundant electronic control system.

Ecologically sound solution for commuters

The Volvo ReCharge Concept is best suited to car drivers who cover moderate distances every day. For example, a commuter who has less than 100 kilometres (62 miles) to drive between home and workplace can cover the entire round trip on electric power alone and the equivalent daily fuel economy will be zero litres per 100 km.

Even drivers who cover more than the battery-only range will benefit from the ReCharge Concept. For a 150 km (93 mile) drive starting with a full charge, the car will require less than 2.8 litres of fuel, giving the car an effective fuel economy of 1.9 l/100km (124 mpg).

"The only requirement is that the car owner has access to electrical outlets at convenient places, such as at home or at the workplace. A full recharge takes 3 hours. However, even a one-hour quick charge should provide enough charge to drive about 50 kilometres," says Magnus Jonsson.

Retroconcept Vinci Sport, A Portuguese Dino

Wes Siler — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 10:15:00 EDT

Portugal probably isn't the first country that comes to mind when you think of exotic sports cars. Engineering concern CEIIA and designer Ernestos Frietas are trying to change that. Reminiscent of a Dino 206 GT, the Retroconcept Vinci Sport shares the Dino's diminutive proportions, mid-engine layout and overall profile. Additional references like the hood nostrils, headlights, and air intakes are clearly Dino-inspired but brought up to date with modern materials and forms. The Vinci Sport makes extensive use of carbon fiber in both the chassis and body. [Via Car Body Design]

CEIIA

Students look for Audi's Future

Wes Siler — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 16:20:00 EDT

Tasked with dreaming up a new small Audi, students at Milan's Scuola Politecnica di Design have presented concepts that part with the company's current cold, technical look. By modifying design signatures like the thin glass house and 'beard' grille, the students have been able create vehicles that appear purposeful and utilitarian while remaining clear descendants of Audi's current range. Jay Wen-Chieh Win's design in particular show how Audi could adapt the look of their current front ends towards something more aggressive and dynamic. [Via Car Body Design]

Nissan Pivo In Action

Wes Siler — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 17:15:16 EDT

One of our favourite concepts from 2005, the impossibly futuristic Pivo has been kept under close guard by Nissan, until now. They still won't let anyone drive the car - distinguished by a cabin that rotates 180 degrees - or allow it out for photo shoots, or reveal details of how it works, but they did let an Aussie TV show film the car while an engineer drove it. Hot rotating cabin action inside.

Beyond Tomorrow

Tokyo Auto Show: Nissan Releases Sketch-Tease Of NV200 Concept Van

Wes Siler — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 15:00:00 EDT

Nissan Design Europe today unveiled this sketch of their forthcoming NV200 van concept. The small van, a likely competitor for the Ford Transit Connect, will see its premiere at the Tokyo Motor Show in October. Recognizing that most van drivers use their vehicles as a mobile office, the design features a storage pod that slides out the back doors, making room for a passenger seat that rotates backwards to face a drop down desk. Inspired by the needs of underwater photographers, not only are there separate wet and dry storage areas, but the two little driving lights on the roof remind us of those on a mini-submersible or those robotic diving suits from The Abyss.

ZIL Parade Concept

Wes Siler — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 11:45:38 EDT

Russian President Vladimir Putin is fast tightening his iron grip on the once proud nation. In a move not seen since the Cold War, nuclear missiles are being aimed at European cities while foreign governments are the targets of coercion, sabotage and open hostility. Internal dissent is cause for exile while the government consolidates its power. So perhaps it's appropriate that their design students are dreaming up dictator-appropriate modes of transport. Who knows, the next time we see the ZIL Parade might be at the front of an armored column parading through Red Square.

ZIL Parade Concept [CarDesign.ru]

Related:
In Russia, ZIL Screws You [internal]

2012 BMW 3-Series

Jonny Lieberman — Wed, 04 Jul 2007 15:00:22 EDT

Many claim there's little doubt the current 3-series is the ugliest car in BMW's history. Furthermore, those same folks claim it's awkward and not aging well. Realizing that, and according to the lads at Motor Authority, BMW is changing course big time. Most notable in this design preview are the cues borrowed from everyone's favorite Shanghai surprise, the CS Concept. Note the front end is lifted almost exactly from the CS, though the renderings for the 3-series have much sharper, 5-series influenced headlights. The hood is also inflated to protect the pedestrians of Europe, only it doesn't look awful. The rear is a best-case evolution of the 7-series's bustled butt. The proposed 3 looks good in profile, too. Is this preview accurate? Who knows, but boy oh boy would it be a big step in the right direction. – Jonny Lieberman

Preview: Next-gen BMW 3-series [Motor Authority]

Paper-Doll Enzo : Ferrari Reveals Cardboard Concept

Mike Spinelli — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 12:34:18 EDT

Ferrari revealed a pint-sized Enzo concept insiders are calling the "1000 kilo" car, or "Millechili" in Italian. Winding Road was on hand at Ferrari's 60th Anniversary fete to enquire, though the got some winding answers from the Ferraristi on hand. Some are calling the model — whose wheelbase is nearly 10 inches less than that of the Enzo — the "FXX Millechili." That implies the little bugger could pull down as much as 660 horsepower from the Ferrari's top-end V12. At 2207 lb., that kind of power would be downright time warping. Could we be looking at the smaller Ferrari some insist is on the way? Or is it a practical joke you have to be Modenese to get. Eh! – Mike Spinelli

Ferrari Quietly Unveils FXX Millechili (1000kg) Concept [Winding Road]

Geneva Pre-Show: Dodge's Demon-ic Concept Car

Ray Wert — Mon, 12 Feb 2007 06:00:00 EST

Chrysler Group's been pushing the Dodge brand to the European market in hardcore fashion. Take as most recent evidence the new Dodge Demon roadster prototype the company's planning to roll out at the Geneva show next month. For visual guidance, picture a Mazda MX-5 birthed in the seventh ring of Hell (home to the violent types). And that's fitting, because Chrysler Group's design guru Trevor Creed has the MX-5 buyer in his crosshairs. Dodgeification's been achieved by way of the signature grille, which appears to have been crammed wholesale onto a Porsche Boxster that's strayed, ass-first, into the path of a band saw. Under the hood is Chrysler's 2.4-liter world engine, producing 172 hp and 165 lb-ft, with power going to the rear wheels. Whither the SRT version powered by the Crossfire's V6? Don't press your luck. Press release after the jump. – Ray Wert

Press Release:

Dodge Demon Roadster Concept - Simple Soul, Artful Attitude Make for Radical Results

Geneva - The Dodge Demon concept is a compact, nimble "roadster with an attitude," a perfect balance of classic sports car proportion and simplicity blended with modern design and performance.

"While the iconic Dodge Viper is a dream car for many, the Dodge Demon is designed to be an attainable dream car," said Jae Chung - Dodge Demon Principal Exterior Designer, Chrysler Group. "The exterior design is simple yet bold, featuring an energetic combination of curves and intersecting planes."

The bodyside of the Dodge Demon main character line flows up and over the front wheel, then drops diagonally to an angular color-keyed vent on the rear fender that directs cooling air to the rear brakes. In similar fashion, the compound rear fender surface curves up and over the rear wheel, sweeping into a broad diagonal plane extending to the taillamp. The resulting muscular fender form projects boldly beyond the main body, underscoring that the Dodge Demon concept is a rear-wheel-drive machine.

The rear surface of the body is divided into three planes with two chamfered outboard planes, dominated by long, tapering trapezoidal taillamps. The taillamps sport translucent red inset lenses that surround LED back-up lamps.

Up front, the signature Dodge crosshair grille is stuffed into an aggressive, menacing, trapezoidal opening that thrusts boldly forward.

Set into elongated angled triangles, the projector headlamps, delineated by bright rings, are set into black chrome bezels, giving the front end mean-looking "eyes" that accentuate the grille opening. Encompassing the upper portions of the front fenders and sporting two recessed air outlets, the Dodge Demon's hood is hinged at the front, adding a just-for-fun performance-car look and feel.

Featuring an open-spoke design, the wheels are pushed to the corners of the body for a dramatic stance and capable performance. The 19-inch brushed aluminum wheels are set into assertive, asymmetrical openings that reprise the body's playful combination of curves and planes.

The beltline kicks up at the rear and into the higher deck lid contour, giving the lucky occupants an encapsulated, protective feeling.

"In the manner of timeless British sports cars, the interior of the Dodge Demon is purposely functional, not frivolous," said Dan Zimmermann - Dodge Demon Principal Interior Designer. "Everything relating to the driving experience is emphasized, while that which is not is made visually secondary.

"The well laid out instrument panel, for example, is familiar, yet modern. Everything you really need - the gauges, circular AC outlets, radio - is encapsulated in a cross-car brushed aluminum bezel that also accentuates the width of the cabin. Secondary controls and features, such as the HVAC knobs and the passenger-side glove box, are located below this bezel," Zimmerman added.

In a similar functional manner, the floor console is deliberately not a part of, or attached to, the instrument panel. The console is dominated by the squat ready-at-hand silver and black manual shift knob, and its leather boot is set into a bright trim ring. The wide, brushed aluminum console bezel also incorporates the recessed emergency brake handle, with the window switch gear, softly lit cup holders and 12V power outlet organized into a graphically unified shape. The upper portion of the instrument panel, including the cluster brow, is accented by a stitched seam with contrasting silver thread.

"Each of these features is set flush, or nearly flush, with the bezel surface so as to establish a 'clear zone' for the driver's shift arm in all seating positions, with nothing in the way of the driving experience," Zimmerman said.

The raised plateau at the rear of the console incorporates a covered storage bin - with a lid that serves as an armrest between shifts - while the portion of the console extending under the instrument panel has an open bin handy for incidentals.

The steering wheel employs an aluminum open-spoke design with each of the three spokes intersecting the small circular hub for a timeless sports car look. The wheel rim itself is brushed aluminum on the inside, complemented with stitched vinyl on the outer rim. Immediately forward of the wheel, the four-gauge cluster features classic white-on-black dials with graphics inspired by sports watches. Each circular gauge is set handsomely inside a finely detailed silver and chrome bezel ring, while gauge pointers are colored to match the exterior.

The doors feature durable, vertical grab handles, each anchored to a silver bezel housing the chrome door remote handle. The lower portion of each door features a stylish brushed aluminum bezel that encapsulates the large circular speaker grille and then drops sharply as it moves rearward to form the map pocket outer panel, mimicking a feature line on the car's exterior.

The Dodge Demon's seats feature contoured bolsters that are just high enough to provide support when cornering, yet do not hinder ingress or egress. Set in exposed low-gloss carbon fiber shells, the black seats with integral head restraints feature inserts of textured "Momentum" fabric mated to fabric bolsters, with specific sew lines accented by silver thread. Individual brushed aluminum and carbon fiber roll bars are positioned directly behind the bucket seats. With long seat tracks, there is ample storage behind the seats. Additional covered storage is provided in the bulkhead between the seats.

The Dodge Demon concept is an affordable Dodge sports car which merges brand cues of bold design and powerful performance with an open-air "fun-to-drive" attitude.

PRELIMINARY TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions are in inches (millimeters) unless otherwise noted.

Engine: 2.4-liter petrol World Engine
Maximum Power: 172 hp SAE (128 kW) @ 6000 rpm
Maximum Torque: 165 lb.-ft. (224 Nm) @ 4400 rpm
Transmission: Six-speed manual
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
Overall Length: 156.5 (3974)
Overall Width (max. @ body): 68.3 (1736)
Overall Height: 51.8 (1315)
Wheelbase: 95.6 (2429)
Overhang, Front: 30.6 (777)
Overhang, Rear: 30.3 (769)
Curb Weight (estimated): 2600 lbs. (1179 kg)
Tire Size, Front/Rear: 58.7 (1491)
Wheel Size: 19 x 8 in.
Outer Diameter: 25.2 (640)
Exterior Color: Bright Amber Pearl
Interior Color: Carbon Black

Not Yet Production! Dodge Releases Avenger "Concept" In A Barrage Of Bold

Ray Wert — Thu, 28 Sep 2006 09:15:00 EDT

Yes, we know FoMoCo's got their steely grip on the "Bold Moves" moniker, but Dodge is making a hard press to get "Bold" as a feather in the German-American hybrid's cap. Well, they're trying to anyway...and we've now got some up-close pictures of the new Dodge Avenger "concept car" (and by the way — a message to you folks in Auburn Hills...we know you're gonna make it. Don't play so coy, k?) to compliment the corporate pics we dropped last week. Oh, and we've even got a special treat at the end — a certain non-medical Doctor looking to cure the Chrysler Group of any and all ailments. Receive the photo barrage after the jump.

Spy Photos: Saaburu 9-(x)x

Mike Spinelli — Wed, 21 Sep 2005 12:44:27 EDT

Trolhatten Saab has some spy shots of what could be Saab's latest Subaru re-badge. With that obvious Tribeca-styled rear, we would have said it was the 9-6x, expected to augment the new Saab SUV line as a 2007 model. Trouble is, this one's a three-door, which means either it's a concept being worked up for the Detroit show, or Saab's going way out on a limb, building a competitor to the 2003 Isuzu Rodeo Sport. TS notes it could also be a prototype Saab 9-4x, a small SUV crossover expected to be built on GM's Epsilon platform (Saab 9-3, Chevrolet Malibu). Nothing materialized at Frankfurt, so we're expecting a Detroit unveiling. Maybe Tokyo? [Thanks to Michael for the tip.]

Spyshots: The 9-6x? or the 9-4x? [Trollhattan Saab]

Related:
Second Saaburu Greenlighted [internal]

Panamera Predecessor: Evidence of Porsche's "Secret" 989 Found

Mike Spinelli — Wed, 17 Aug 2005 17:46:54 EDT

AutoWeek has unearthed photos of a four-door Porsche prototype of the early 1990s that may be the spiritual predecessor to the company's upcoming Panamera. The Porsche 989 one-off was a rear-engined (as opposed to the front-engined Panamera) prototype based on the 911, though with several styling and suspension improvements that would show up in later 911s. Although Porsche officials claim the company never released photos of the prototype — and said the car had been destroyed in 1991 after production plans were shelved — the 989 had already been photographed by a German magazine. Moreover, the car likely still exists in some Porsche facility, under deeper cover than an KGB agent sweeping up at Wal-Mart.

Porsche 989 lives! (scroll down) [AutoWeek]

Related:
More on Porsche's new Panamera [internal]