Paul Tan's Automotive News » Concept Cars

Citroen Numero 9 Concept exudes dark glamour

Jonathan James Tan — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 17:09:02 +0000

C’est magnifique! Having whetted the appetite of the world’s press with pictures of its Numero 9 Concept beforehand (we ran an earlier story here), Citroen finally bared all at Auto China 2012 in a dark, classy setting, complete with intricate chandelier hanging just inches from the car’s roof.

Take in that aggressively raked windscreen and rear end adorned with a C-shaped rear spoiler, and those flashy 21-inch wheels. It’s got a profile not unlike that of a shooting brake, and brings a Ferrari FF to mind. Citroen say this concept combines the design cues of a future C- and D-segment sedan and SUV for the DS brand.

You say 9 in French – neuf – and this svelte black beauty could well become the DS9, the big, luxury sedan in the premium DS range, and therefore the true spiritual successor to the legendary Citroen DS of the 1950s. To illustrate this, an original DS 23, in immaculate condition, was placed just across the stand from the new car.

The Numero 9 has a plug-in hybrid powertrain involving a 225 hp 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder and an 70 hp electric motor. There is a ‘boost’ function that when activated, Citroen say, will unleash all 300 hp for a 5.4-second 0-100 km/h time.

Citroen’s upmarket DS range currently comprises the DS3, DS4 and DS5, all of which are about to go on sale in China.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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First Denza electric vehicle surfaces at Auto China 2012

Jonathan James Tan — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 08:27:32 +0000

Hot on the trail of electric vehicle brands like Fisker Automotive and Tesla Motors is newcomer Denza, the result of a 50:50 joint venture between China’s BYD and Mercedes’ parent company Daimler. You see here the first product of their alliance – a cool blue fellow that appears to not have a name.

Underpinning it is the first-gen Mercedes B-Class platform – a flat floor platform originally designed to house batteries. Daimler take care of the styling, body and chassis while BYD focus on the electric powertrain (BYD used to supply lithium-ion batteries to mobile phone companies, and its E6 model is currently undergoing testing as taxis in Shenzhen).

The NEV’s powertrain is borrowed from the E6, which means its shares the same advanced lithium-ion phosphate battery that allows a 300 km range. Other numbers are unclear, but the E6 taxis in Shenzhen are reported to charge fully in 20 to 30 minutes without deterioration of battery health, and max out at 140 km/h.

Denza’s target market is the increasingly urban and open-minded Chinese middle-class. The company aims to be a premium brand of alternative-energy vehicles.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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Volkswagen Cross Coupe – more info coming from Beijing

Chris Ng — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 04:00:17 +0000

Looks like the Volkswagen Cross Coupé is making its rounds around the world. First in Tokyo then in Geneva and now it debuts China with a notch more information.

As previously reported by Anthony, the 1,858 kg Cross Coupé draws power from a diesel-electric hybrid engine that, when combined, produces 306 PS and 700 Nm. Yes, that’s 700 Nm of torque.

The 2.0 litre TDI gives 190 PS and 400 Nm and transfers power via a six-speed DSG. While the front 40 kW E-motor provides an additional 180 Nm and the rear 85 kW E-motor gives 270 Nm. Both motors siphon juice from a 9.8 kWh lithium-ion battery. The Cross Coupe clocks its 0-100 km/h in 6.5 seconds and is capable of hitting a top speed of 220 km/h.

So, does this sports car like speed comes at a cost? No. The fact is the power comes almost at a steal: 1.8 litres/100km and just 48 g/km of CO2 released from its exhaust.

The concept SUV has a range of 45 km at speeds of up to 120 km/h when running in pure electric. The TDI kicks in within fractions of a second, without notice, when needed. Volkswagen theorise that the Cross Coupé’s can squeeze a range of 1,287 km out from a full 55 litre fuel tank.

Holding all of these technologies together is Volkswagen new modular transverse matrix (MQB) platform. The MQB sets some parameters in stone (like the distance between the accelerator pedal and the front axle) but makes others easily changeable, which means that the MQB has the flexibility to be used in a wide range of vehicles.

If the Cross Coupe sounds brilliant, well, there is one tiny problem. Volkswagen has no plans to put the Cross Coupe into production. Still, technologies from here might just surface in other vehicles. We’ll keep our eyes peeled.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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Peugeot Urban Crossover Concept hints at the future

Jonathan James Tan — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 23:10:20 +0000

Set aside sensibilities like practicality and emissions regulations for a moment and see what happens when you really bring together the purest forms of ‘Motion and Emotion’ in a car. Peugeot has done just that with its striking Urban Crossover Concept, displayed for the first time at Auto China 2012.

At 4.14 metres long and 1.74 metres wide, the Urban Crossover is a compact vehicle designed for city driving. It shares the same platform as Peugeot’s 208 supermini, and targets the competitive European B-segment.

Penned by Peugeot’s studios in Paris, Shanghai and Sao Paulo, it is mainly a styling exercise to showcase how future Peugeots might look like. If this looker is anything to go by, we say bring it on!

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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BMW’s i8 Concept blows the top off at Auto China 2012

Jonathan James Tan — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 00:00:50 +0000

Making its first global appearance in Beijing is the BMW i8 Spyder Concept, which is an open top variant of the i8 plug-in hybrid that first debuted at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show.

It is the third variation of the i8 to be launched so far, but the first to feature the eDrive emblem on the rear. It will be a badge that all future BMW i models with an electric motor, lithium-ion battery and motor management system will proudly carry.

The i8 Spyder’s hybrid powertrain remains unchanged from its coupe sister’s – an electric motor powers the front wheels while a 1.5 litre three-cylinder petrol engine powers the rear wheels. Total output is 350 hp and top speed is limited at 250 km/h.

It is, however, slightly shorter both in wheelbase and overall length than the coupe. Also, due to its roll-over hoops and solid metal doors, the i8 Spyder is 100 kg heavier than the coupe, and therefore takes five seconds to sprint to 100 km/h, compared to the coupe’s 4.6. Not so significant then, as shortcomings go.

A long and flat 7.2 kWh lithium-ion battery along the bottom length of the car gives it a front/rear weight distribution of nearly 50:50, as well as a range of 35 km on electric power alone. A full charge takes two hours.

BMW says it plans to have the i8 in production by 2014.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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Lambo Urus concept SUV makes world debut in Beijing

Jonathan James Tan — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 16:45:52 +0000

Here’s the Beijing show stealer, and with good reason. The Lamborghini Urus, a four-seater super SUV, was presented to the world as a concept today amidst much fanfare.

For a start, Lambo aims to make it the most powerful production SUV you can buy. Their target? 600 hp, although they are as yet unclear on what kind of engine they will use to reach that big number.

Before you say V10 or V12, consider this: they also want to make it the least polluting in terms of carbon dioxide emissions, without using a diesel engine. However they plan to employ advanced carbon fibre technologies to keep it as lightweight as possible. To that end, much of the Urus is made of carbon fibre, including the seats, winglets and rear diffuser.

It also has permanent all-wheel-drive and adaptive aerodynamics. The latter involves adjustable front and rear spoilers and rear deflector, to alter the amount of downforce according to driving conditions.

The first thing that strikes you upon seeing it in the flesh (apart from its menacing Aventador-derived angular design language) is its huge wheels, shod in low-profile Pirelli Scorpion Zero tyres. 305/35 ZR24, to be exact. The wheels are made of matte-finish aluminium which we think suit the car nicely. In other measurements, the Urus is nearly 5 metres long and 2 metres wide, and at 1.66 metres tall it is about the same height as a Range Rover Evoque.

Other notable features include rear-facing cameras mounted where you’d expect to find wing mirrors, and quad hexagonal exhausts. It certainly hints at things to come from the Italian supercar manufacturer, who want to bring out a proper production SUV by 2015.

A far cry indeed from the LM002 of the 1980s!

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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Audi A6 L e-tron concept reduces emissions, not luxury

Chris Ng — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 10:11:17 +0000

Audi shows China how it could help the nation reduce carbon emissions without sacrificing the want for luxury at the Beijing Motor Show. Enter the A6 L e-tron, a concept based on the A6 L that is produced at the Changchun plant in a joint venture with FAW.

The A6 L e-tron employs a parallel hybrid system that matches a 2.0 TFSI (with 211 hp) and an electric motor capable of producing 70 kW (95 hp). Electricity is drawn from liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery located in a collision-protected space at the rear of the car. The A6 L e-tron can travel with electricity alone up to 80 km with a constant speed of 60 km/h. But the hybrid system will choose the best mode to suit the driving situation.

To differentiate between the un-electrified A6 L, the e-tron version is fitted with massive 21-inch wheels and a special rear diffuser. To emphasize on its status, the A6 L e-tron is measured to be 5,020 mm long, 1,870 mm wide and 1,460 mm tall (or short?), with a wheelbase of 3,010 mm.

More differentiation points coms from the tachometer, which is a powermeter in the A6 L e-tron. It indicated the total drive system power on a scale of zero to 100. Also, coloured segments indicate the current operating state of the car together with an auxiliary instrument that visualised the charge state of the lithium-ion battery. The energy flow indicator tells the driver the current operating mode and which hybrid drive components are currently active; it is displayed on the MMI.

In spite of it being a hybrid, the Audi is still fully decked out in all the necessary luxury equipment. So there’s ventilation and massage functions, Bose surround sound, auto air-conditioning with air ioniser and ambient lighting. Also featured inside is the MMI navigation plus that recognises 29,000 Chinese characters, all developed at the Audi Infotainment Tech Centre (ITC) in Beijing, where German components are adapted to suit the wishes of Chinese customers.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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Audi Q3 jinlong yufeng concept SUV rolls out in Beijing

Chris Ng — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 09:05:42 +0000

We’ve already seen Audi dropping the veil on the Beijing-bound Q3 RS. Now, here is another that is also based on the Q3 and this one comes with a Chinese twist. Its full name is the ‘Audi Q3 jinlong yufeng’. For those who don’t understand what it means, Audi says ‘jinlong yufeng’ stands for ‘Golden Dragon in the Wind’.

This concept is based on the fast-moving sport of kite surfing. So, mounted on the hood of the Q3 jinlong are two carbon fibre-reinforced kite boards, which can be stowed in a kite pouch specifically designed for the vehicle. The designers also developed a flat outdoor pouch as a special cargo floor liner that protects against dirt and stows away wet things. It can also be used as a sun umbrella or a seat cover.

In addition, jinlong also comes with two sport cameras, dubbed Audi Cams, and it is stored on the left sidewall of the cargo area. Kite surfers can mount the Audi Cams to the sail bar, or strap it to their equipment or helmet. Images are transmitted to the car via WLAN router connection. From there, the images can be sent with Bluetooth car phone online to any UMTS receiver.

Where the Q3 RS is blue, Q3 jinlong is painted Liuli Yellow to express a zest for life and high energy. To play up more on its ‘off-road vehicle for the young’ positioning, the jinlong features the off-road package that is currently available for production cars and an aluminium underbody guard to protect the engine and the exhaust system. The exhausts are actually integrated in the diffuser, which acts as the said underbody guard.

Three colours dominate inside – black, gray and yellow. Roof liner is lined with titanium gray Alcantara, the instrument panel is wrapped in black Fine Nappa and is decorated with yellow seams. Steering, seats and door cards are also treated with skin in colours dictated by the three-colour scheme.

A 2.5 litre five-cylinder TFSI engine gives 310 hp to the jinlong. The engine is paired with a seven-speed S tronic that sends power to the quattro system. Century sprints are accomplished in 5.5 seconds and its speed tops out at 250 km/h.

Five-spoke alloys are chosen for the jinlong, with a size of 8.5 J x 20 and wrapped with 255/45 off-road rubbers. The front and rear track is made 40 mm wider than the production version and its height is raised another 30 mm, to accommodate for its off-road capability.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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R3 Artiga in the metal and on show at Proton Power of 1

Chris Ng — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 04:47:35 +0000

Say hello to the R3 Artiga… again. We previously saw this concept car in Shanghai) and now the Artiga is here, at the Proton Power of 1 in all its metal glory.

There’s a bit more information about the Artiga this time around. We already know that the engine is a supercharged Campro unit that’s good for 180 hp and 240 Nm of torque. The Artiga can do its 0-100 km/h sprint in 7.6 seconds and hits maximum speed at 235 km/h.

The Artiga sports Cusco Zero-3G height and damping adjustable coil-overs at the front and rear, possibly to take advantage of the partnership between Proton and Cusco (read about it here). Stopping power comes courtesy of Endless ventilated rotors and four pot calipers, but only for the front. The rear is equipped with solid brakes.

It’s not a pure concept car per se; you can see that it is a Satria Neo underneath all that extra body kit. The grille and light assembly has also been revised to make it look more aggressive. The one big difference is the ‘eyebrow’ (indicators?) is now in amber instead of the ‘clear’ as seen in Shanghai. It is eye-catching, nonetheless.

No pictures of the interior though. The car is locked tight when I was making my rounds.

But the Artiga is not here just for show. Proton R3 is conducting a survey to see just how much you like the Artiga and what you think can be improved. Could Proton R3 be launching what could be the hottest Satria Neo yet?

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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Honda NSX Concept – gets SH-AWD and VTEC V6 engine

Chris Ng — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 00:11:44 +0000

It was in Detroit that Honda stopped teasing the world and unveiled the NSX Concept. The world was excited. Now, chances are you’ll soon be seeing this car very soon in the cinemas, being driven by Iron Man himself, or so Hollywood’s rumour mill says. But before you head into the cinemas to drool at the car (I’ll be doing the same), here are a few more highlights of the next-generation NSX Concept as revealed by Honda.

The first thing that you should know about the NSX is that Honda is not joining the horsepower race. While most supercars are filled to the brim with the brute force of a large engine, the NSX will have a very favourable power-to-weight ratio. So, you can expect lightweight materials to be one of the defining features of this car.

There are no final numbers on its weight yet, but the dimensions of the NSX is as such: 4,330 mm long, 1,895 mm wide and 1,160 mm tall with a wheelbase of 2,575 mm. The NSX will have a front wheel size of 19-inches wrapped with 255/35 tyres and 20-inch units wearing 275/30 rubbers adorn the rear.

Beating in the middle will be Honda’s next-generation direct-injection VTEC V6 engine that will be partnered with a dual-clutch transmission and a third electric traction motor integrated within the transmission housing to give supercar acceleration while still having an efficient fuel consumption.

Two more electric motors can be found in the NSX, and they form what is called Super Handling-All Wheel Drive, or SH-AWD for short. This new hybrid all-wheel-drive system can instantly generate negative or positive torque to the front wheels during cornering. Honda predicts that the SH-AWD will deliver handling performance unlike any other.

The NSX will be developed by Honda R&D Americas and Ohio will be its chosen birth city. The bad news? The NSX will not be made anytime soon and will only go on sale in the next three years. Bummer.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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Nissan INVITATION Concept previews new B-segment car

Paul Tan — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 07:48:41 +0000

This is the Nissan INVITATION Concept which Nissan will be exhibiting at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show as a preview for a future B-segment vehicle, due to be launched from 2013.

Nissan says the production INVITATION hatchback will be sold alongside the Micra city car and the Juke crossover. Many publications are speculating that the production version of the INVITATION will replace the Nissan Note, which is due for replacement as the first generation has been around since 2004.

I can’t help but feel the INVITATION looks more like a Tiida/Latio hatch than a Note, due to a lack of a taller roofline. However, the new B-segment Tiida/Latio has already been unveiled at Shanghai, though curiously it hasn’t gone on sale yet in countries like the US even though the Micra-based sedan counterpart have already been launched in these countries.

The INVITATION is a pretty good looking concept car, and we hope that much of it gets translated into production, instead of how the original Versa concept (which was very good looking) became the Latio hatch on sale in our country now (not as good looking).

Also making its debut with the INVITATION is Nissan’s advanced Around View Monitor (AVM) safety technology – seen for the first time on a B-segment car – which makes reversing and parallel parking as stress-free as possible.

As for the name, Nissan Deputy Division General Manager of Product Strategy and Product Planning Division Francois Bancon said the name INVITATION is self-explanatory, that the car is designed to be inviting thanks to its sensuous exterior design and generous and comfortable interior space, cleverly packaged within compact overall dimensions.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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Tokyo 2011: Live photos of the Suzuki Regina concept

Harvinder Sidhu — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 04:07:05 +0000

We are reporting live from the Land of the Rising Sun and this is the Suzuki Regina concept which could point to a new global compact car from the Japanese brand. Little has been revealed about the car but we do know that it is powered by an 800cc petrol engine that is also turbocharged.

The small engine is paired to a continuously variable transmission or CVT and there is brake energy regeneration and an engine start/stop function. It weighs only 730 kg and has a drag coefficient at least 10% lower than that of current models in Suzuki’s line-up.

This allows the Regina to deliver a fuel economy reading of 3.76 liters per 100 km which is rather impressive. The concept which measures 3,500 mm long and 1,600 mm wide was produced using a new manufacturing process that helps reduce the number of parts required.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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Tokyo 2011: Toyota shows off the Fun-Vii concept

Harvinder Sidhu — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 03:36:58 +0000

This is one of Toyota’s latest concept cars. Called the Fun-Vii, it is currently being presented at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show and according to Toyota, the three-seater Fun-Vii “heralds a not-too-distant future where people, cars and society are linked”.

The interesting thing about this concept is the fact that you can alter the content that is displayed on both the interior and exterior of the vehicle. You can practically change the body colour of the vehicle and display messages on it!

The interior “mood” can be altered and it comes with features such as a navigation system that is displayed via augmented reality. Also in the list is a remote function, which allows most of the concept’s functions to be controlled remotely via a smart phone.

Other features include a network update system to ensure the latest software update is in place, the ability to connect with friends who are nearby and it can also detect other potentially hazardous vehicles such as vehicles in blind spots in advance. No information on the powertrain just yet, but it is likely electric-powered.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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Frankfurt: Production-ready Audi A8 L W12 concept

Harvinder Sidhu — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 04:49:33 +0000

Yes, there is no typo in the title you see above. This Audi A8 L W12 Executive Concept is indeed a concept car as the name suggests but Audi has also confirmed its production at the same time, although only 50 units will be produced. This model is aimed at an “exclusive group of connoisseurs” and is being marketed under the “Audi exclusive concept” label.

Basically the car is a premium version of the A8 flagship with things like a bespoke interior. The seats are covered with Cognac-colored leather by the exclusive Italian manufacturer Poltrona Frau. The inlays are made from the wood olive ash along with a light gray-brown veneer that has fine grain. There is also a hint of silver in the pores that gives the wood’s appearance a refined look.

Power comes from a 6.3 litre W12 petrol engine with 493 hp and 625 Nm of torque. All 50 units will carry a plate marked with a designated serial number. Audi also confirmed that more models will be placed under the exclusive label.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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Frankfurt: Ford’s Fiesta ST Concept takes centre stage

Harvinder Sidhu — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 04:04:29 +0000

Ford has arrived to Frankfurt with the Fiesta ST Concept which previews a high-performance global Fiesta, just like the production Focus ST that was launched at the same venue as well. At first glance, you can definitely spot the aggressiveness in the concept with features such as the trapezoidal grille which was carried over from the Focus ST. There is also a diffuser at the back which channels out a twin exhaust tail pipe.

The concept also sits on 17-inch alloy wheels and is also slapped on with a full ST body kit inspired by the Ford Fiesta WRC rally car. The car is finished in Molten Orange which is also used by the Ford SVT F-150 Raptor pickup sold in North America. The sportiness continues with the interior thanks to a high-contrast design along with Recaro sports seats for the driver and front passenger.

The suspension geometry has been retuned as well to offer a sportier handling characteristic, although the details were not revealed. Under the hood lies a 1.6 litre EcoBoost unit which produces 177 hp and 240 Nm of torque, allowing the concept to hit 100 km/h in less than 7 seconds while top speed is figured at slightly over 220 km/h.

This turbocharged engine also features Ford’s Twin-independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) and is connected to a 6-speed manual transmission. Ford also revealed that the engine produces less than 140 g/km of CO2 emissions. Continue reading to check out a high-res image gallery.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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VIDEO: Unveiling footage of the Seat IBL Concept

Harvinder Sidhu — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 11:16:47 +0000

The Seat IBL Concept vehicle made its premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show yesterday and we have managed to get you the unveiling video of the concept. This Spanish concept is being positioned as a sports sedan and it is a plug-in hybrid. You can read more about the IBL Concept right here.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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Skoda MissionL Concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show

Harvinder Sidhu — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 09:08:38 +0000

Skoda’s MissionL Concept had its motor show debut yesterday in Frankfurt and we now have some videos to share with you. First up is a product presentation video as well as the unveiling of the concept while the second video gives you a 360-degree of the Czech vehicle.

Skoda has confirmed that the production version of the concept will arrive late next year and India would be the first market to receive it. It will then head to other markets including Europe, Russia and China in 2012.

Look after the jump for a small live gallery of the MissionL.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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Frankfurt: Lamborghini Sesto Elemento gets green light for 20-unit production run

Harvinder Sidhu — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 07:03:06 +0000

Lamborghini has made an official announcement at the Frankfurt Motor Show in regards to the Sesto Elemento concept which was unveiled at last year’s Paris Motor Show. President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini, Stephan Winkelmann has confirmed that the concept will go into production. We are also expecting the production version to be identical to the Paris concept.

The production Sesto Elemento will be limited to a 20-unit production run and is planned for a launch in early 2013. This track-only 999 kg model will use a 570hp V10 powerhouse linked to an all wheel drive system. With those figures, the vehicle’s power-to-weight ratio is set at 1.75 kg per hp, allowing the monster to hit 100km/h in just 2.5 seconds from a standstill.

It uses a carbon fiber monocoque made of forged composite and there is also extensive use of carbon fiber throughout the vehicle. Stephan Winkelmann said, “The excellent feedback and the numerous requests we’ve had from our customers have really convinced us to embark on the challenge of producing a vehicle with unique characteristics”.

“We are proud that what a year ago was just a ‘technology demonstrator’ of future super sports cars, even though in working order, will become a small series reality,” he added.

Click here to view more photos of the Lamborghini Sesto Elemento concept.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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Frankfurt: Volkswagen shows off the Beetle R Concept

Harvinder Sidhu — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 04:44:17 +0000

This is the Volkswagen Beetle R Concept which made its public debut at the Frankfurt motor event. It is a design study which will likely translate into a production run at a later stage. The concept is treated to a sportier body kit with front and rear bumpers that are widened by 30 mm. The front bumper has three air intakes that are finished in Black High Gloss which is the same treatment given to the front spoiler.

The vents and various other slots are functional and they provide engine and brake temperature regulation. The rear bumper also assists in the aerodynamics department along with a diffuser and a rear spoiler. The exterior also sports two sets of dual chrome tailpipes, free-standing wings that are widened by 15 mm as well as a roof with the Black High Gloss treatment.

The Beetle R sits on large 20-inch Talladega alloy wheels which is the same design utilized by the Golf R and the Scirocco R. These wheels are finished in Serious Grey.

On the inside, the sportier Beetle has motorsport shell seats that are upholstered in black Nappa leather, seat piping in Space Blue and lots of R logos everywhere. The instruments have been modified as well and brushed aluminium is used for all pedal caps.

You might be wondering what is powering the concept but unfortunately Volkswagen has neglected to mention the details in the press release. However you can safely expect it to have engine performance figures that match the Golf R and the Scirocco R.

As always, more images can be found after the jump.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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Frankfurt: Land Rover reveals the DC100 and DC100 Sport Defender concepts

Harvinder Sidhu — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 16:51:55 +0000

UPDATE: Live photos have been added to the gallery.

Land Rover has unveiled two Defender concepts at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The first is the DC100 concept which was revealed prior to the motor event and second is the roof-less DC100 Sport concept which was just announced moments ago. According to the famous 4×4 maker, these two concepts will help set the pathway for the future design of the iconic Defender and they both showcase various off-road capabilities.

Both concepts sit on the same lightweight, mixed-alloy platform and feature 2.0 litre gasoline and diesel engines with hybrid and plug-in capabilities. They both run on a permanent four-wheel drive configuration along with an 8-speed transmission.

Other features include an Intelligent Stop/Start system, three-abreast ‘social seating’, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Leisure key which is a waterproof and lightweight alternative to the control fob, built-in induction charging stations as well as the ‘Always-on’ connectivity and telematics feature which allow for car-to-smartphone, car-to-car and car-to-base communication.

As for the 4×4 functions, both concepts have the Terrain-i scanning device which alerts the driver about obstacles while off-roading and it can even suggest alternative routes. There is also something called Wade Aid which uses sonar technology to assess water depth and it can also advise the driver on the optimum speed. Another interesting feature is the spiked tyre system which can be activated by the driver.

There is also Driveline Disconnect which physically disjoints the rear axle to save fuel when the all-wheel drive system is not required and there is also an updated Land Rover Terrain Response system. So what’s the difference between the two concepts? Well the DC100 pretty much showcases the future of Land Rover capability and versatility while the DC100 Sport is an “active expression of freedom and leisure.” Land Rover also took the opportunity to reiterate that the new Defender will be launched in 2015.

Continue reading to view an image gallery.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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Frankfurt: Subaru presents the BRZ Prologue coupe

Harvinder Sidhu — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 15:49:10 +0000

UPDATE: Live photos have been added to the gallery.

Subaru has unveiled its own version of Toyota’s FT-86 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Called the BRZ Prologue, it was unveiled in a somewhat unfinished guise with a see-through body showing off the coupe’s internals. The company calls it the “SUBARU BRZ PROLOGUE – BOXER Sports Car Architecture II”

The BRZ features a rear-wheel-drive layout and is fitted with a normally-aspirated 2.0 litre Boxer engine which is exclusively developed for the coupe. The engine features a revised bore and stroke setting and also features Toyota’s direct injection and port injection technology which is commonly known as D-4S.

Subaru promises that the BRZ will offer “Pure Handling Delight” and confirmed that production is expected to start in spring 2012. Subaru also revealed the dimensions of the vehicle which includes a 2,570mm wheelbase. The vehicle is 4,200mm long, 1,770mm wide and 1,270mm high.

Continue reading to view more high-res photos of the vehicle.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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BMW i3 and i8 concepts feature new LifeDrive platform

Paul Tan — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 09:23:07 +0000

These are the BMW i3 and the i8 Concepts, the two members of the new BMW i family that BMW previewed last week at Messe Frankfurt. The BMW i3 was originally known as the BMW Megacity Vehicle, and it will be BMW’s first series-produced all-electric vehicle, and you’ll see the i8 sports car in the upcoming Mission Impossible movie.

BMW started off the BMW M sub brand for high performance versions of its cars. The company had to evolve with times, and with the rise of the popularity of the SUV came the BMW X brand along with xDrive.

Now as the world continues to change with the times and the idea of mobility continues to evolve – BMW has responded with the creation of a sub-brand which meets the changing needs of customers head-on: BMW i. BMW i is all visionary vehicles and mobility services, inspiring design, and a new understanding of premium that is strongly defined by sustainability.

“The purpose-oriented and sustainable mobility solutions from BMW i mark the dawn of a new era in personal mobility for the automotive industry,” said Ian Robertson, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Sales and Marketing.

The BMW i brand started off as a think tank called project i back in 2007. BMW had set project i up to explore sustainable mobility solutions, intended to generate a transfer of expertise into both the company as a whole, as well as future vehicle projects.

Quite interestingly, the sustainability goals extended way beyond just the vehicles themselves. The development engineers focused on the entire value chain – not just the end result products. Every parts-related process, technology, supplier – they’ve all been required to contribute to the sustainability rating of the products. The goal is to reduce resources consumption and emissions per vehicle produced by 30 per cent over 2006 levels by 2012.

Anyway, let’s look at the two concept cars. First up – the BMW i3 concept, previously known as the BMW Megacity Vehicle. It is the BMW Group’s first all-electric car intended for series production, focused on the mobility challenges of ultra urban areas. BMW is not the first to the end of the line in the race to start selling a production EV – there are already other cars on sale such as the Nissan LEAF, but this is a premium EV.

It kinda looks like a typical hatchback, and you can even imagine perhaps that space in front of the passenger cell where the combustion engine might be in a conventional car might house the i3′s electric motor.

But the i3 (and the i8) are not “conversion” cars. Their chassis architecture was built from ground up to house an electric drive train. While in a combustion engine car it might make sense for the engine to be up front with the gearbox, the petrol tank at the rear and etc, this might not be the best way to house the components necessary for an electric drive.

Electric drive components place totally different demands on a vehicle when it comes to installation space and cannot be integrated into that vehicle without adding weight and compromising interior and boot space.

Because of a chassis designed for a combustion engine, many of these “conversion EVs” have lots of restrictions and compromises because of the legacy architecture they are based on, and sometimes the cars end up having an odd weight distribution, or a very heavy weight. The MINI E is an example of a conversion electric car – a regular MINI chassis converted to use batteries. BMW says the i3 is much lighter than the MINI E because it was designed from ground up as an electric car. The 1-Series was also ‘converted’ into the BMW ActiveE Concept.

Enter BMW’s LifeDrive architecture, which is built from ground up for electric car construction. It’s divided into two parts – the Life module which contains the ‘life’ or the passengers, and the Drive module which contains the drive equipment like the engine, electric motor and batteries. These modules are said to be separate, independent functional units.

The Drive module houses the vehicle’s suspension, battery, drive system, and structural and crash functions into a construction made mainly from aluminum. The secure arrangement of the battery in the Drive module gives the vehicle a very low centre of gravity and optimum weight distribution.

The passengers sit in the Life module, consisting of a high-strength and extremely lightweight passenger cell made from carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP). The use of CFRP ensures the Life module is remarkably light, helping counter the weight of the other components, thus helping achieve better range and power.

You might worry about the idea of something that has the word “plastic” on it surrounding you and protecting you on the highway. Like the cockpit of a F1 car, the CFRP passenger cell provides an extremely strong survival area. While regular metal chassis constructions require the addition of large energy absorption zones, special deformation elements in the CFRP structure allow large amounts of energy to be absorbed in an amazingly small area.

With the drive components located in the Drive module, there is no centre tunnel running through the passenger compartment. This allows, if necessary, the left and right seats in a row to be connected with each other by a continuous seat surface, which allows for a relatively more comfortable entry and exit via the front passenger side of the car and means you can park one side of your car up close to walls, for example.

All of this sounds very high tech but it actually kinda reminds me of the old way of constructing cars – body on frame instead of unibody, a technique still used today in most pick-up trucks.

Although both the i3 and the i8 are based on the LifeDrive architecture, the geometric implementation of the concept differs in the two models, having been adapted to suit their different usages. The BMW i3 Concept features a horizontal-split variant of the LifeDrive platform optimised to accommodate the car’s electric drive system.

Here, the Life module is simply mounted on top of the Drive module. The 170hp/250Nm compact (smaller than a typical internal combustion engine, and 40% smaller than the MINI E’s motor) motor is mounted at the rear axle, while the rest of the space in the Life module contains a large battery to provide the electric-only i3 Concept a longer range. The battery is penned in by aluminium profiles, which protect it from external impacts. Crash-active structures in front and behind it provide the necessary energy absorption in the event of a front- or rear-end collision.

An integrated liquid cooling system keeps the battery at its optimal operating temperature at all times, which helps to significantly boost the performance and life expectancy of the cells. The climate/heating system cools the fluid circulating in the battery housing via a heat exchanger. Because the cooling system of an electric car is different, there’s really no need for a radiator grille at the front, so to improve aerodynamics, the i3 is designed with no air vents at the front – the kidney grille is decorative.

The battery can be fully recharged in six hours at a standard power socket. If a high-speed charger is used, an 80 per cent charge can be achieved in just one hour. The i3′s electric motor via a single speed transmission gearbox takes it from 0 to 60km/h in under 4 seconds. It hits 100km/h in about 8 seconds. It hits an electronically governed top speed of 150km/h.

If necessary, BMW has designed for the i3′s LifeDrive platform to be able to accommodate a small petrol engine as a range extender. This range extender (REx) engine will be integrated together with the electric motor in the rear axle.

The BMW i3 Concept also has a high recycled material content. 25 per cent of the interior plastics by weight have been replaced by recycled and renewable materials, as have 25 per cent by weight of the exterior thermoplastic components, while the CFRP used in the Life Module consists of 10 per cent recycled material.

The use of recycled CFRP in this form is currently unique. The CFRP produced by BMW’s joint venture partner at the Moses Lake plant in USA is made with electricity generated entirely from hydroelectric power. A total of more than 80 per cent of the aluminium used in the BMW i3 Concept is produced either using renewable energy or from secondary material.

And now we take a look at the i8. The i8 is quite a different vehicle from the i3 – while the i3 is a city roundabout vehicle, the i8 is a sports car. Unlike the i3′s EV power, the i8 is powered by two different power sources, which demonstrates the versatility of the LifeDrive architecture.

The LifeDrive architecture is constructed differently here – arranged in a vertically manner instead of the simple top-down horizontally split structure of the i3. The drive systems powering the BMW i8 Concept are integrated into the front and rear axle modules, with the CFRP Life module providing the bridge between the two.

The electric motor has been adopted from the BMW i3 Concept and modified for use in the BMW i8 Concept’s hybrid power train, where it is “tuned” to run with a smaller battery pack and in conjunction with an internal combustion engine. It drives the front axle, while a 220 hp turbocharged 1.5 litre three-cylinder petrol engine developing up to 300 Nm of torque drives the rear axle. Naturally, this gives the i8 all-wheel drive traction capability.

This is something new, as the previous BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept used a diesel engine. Together, the two power sources take the vehicle to a governed top speed of 250 km/h. It hits 100km/h in under 5 seconds but consumes just 3 litres per 100km on the Euro test cycle.

SInce the i8 is a plug-in hybrid, it does not need as much battery cells as the electric-only i3. These battery cells are stored inside the Life module inside an “energy tunnel”, which is very much like a transmission tunnel. This also helps gives the vehicle a low centre of gravity, which helps with handling. The batteries alone give the i8 an all-electric driving range of approximately 35km, and they can be charged in 2 hours with a standard power socket.

BMW i is the embodiment of “next premium” for BMW, which extends the idea of premium to encompass future requirements of personal transportation. These cars still have quite a few years before they hit production, and in the meanwhile there are already a few other carmakers putting their EV products into the market – for example, we have cars like the Mitsubishi i-MiEV and the Nissan Leaf in the non-premium market, and US automaker Tesla in the premium market.

As part of project i, the BMW Group is currently conducting field trials in everyday conditions with conversion vehicles running purely on electric power. The ongoing trials in the USA and Europe with a fleet of more than 600 MINI E cars are already delivering important feedback on the demands the series-produced electric vehicles of the future will need to meet.

Added to which, a test fleet of over 1,000 BMW ActiveE vehicles – set for launch in the USA, Europe and China at the end of 2011 – will contribute valuable insights into the performance of these models in everyday use. Feedback from the customers trialling the MINI E and BMW ActiveE is channelled directly into the series development of the BMW i vehicles.

We’ve tried a few electric cars before, including one that’s technically from the BMW stables (read our previous story on the Rolls Royce EV). We’re really looking forward to trying out a BMW or MINI EV sometime soon, if not prototype versions of the the i3 or i8, perhaps one of the conversion vehicles like the BMW ActiveE or the MINI E?

Look after the jump for a full gallery and more videos of the i3 and i8.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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Ssangyong XIV-1 Concept for Frankfurt: 2 new images

Paul Tan — Mon, 05 Sep 2011 13:57:09 +0000

Ssangyong have released two new images of their Frankfurt Motorshow concept car, along with an announcement that they’re giving the concept a new name – the Ssangyong XIV-1 Concept. It was previously known as the XUV-1. In this case, the XIV-1 stands for “exciting user Interface Vehicle”. Looks kinda Evoque-inspired don’t you think? I wonder what went on with the name change… perhaps Ssangyong encountered some trademark issues with the term XUV?

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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Ford Evos Concept – four seater fastback C-segment car

Paul Tan — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 11:31:07 +0000

This is the Ford Evos Concept, a four door four seater fastback concept car that will make its public debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.

Ford says the Evos Concept is a showcase of Ford’s first truly global design language, which Ford says is an evolution of the existing kinetic design language found on existing global Ford products like the Fiesta and the new Focus.

The Evos Concept has the length of a C-segment car, but with the width of a CD car, so I suppose you could say it’s about as long as a Focus but as wide as a Mondeo. It’s got a 2,740mm wheelbase. I wonder if producing a fastback like this means Ford is interested to bring a car like the Ford Capri back into its line-up.

We’ve heard such rumors in the past. Other manufacturers have done similar things, resulting in cars like the Scirocco. Two years ago, Ford decided to randomly release a press release about the classic Ford Capri, complete with a long history and file photos.

Like all modern concept cars, things just wouldn’t seem to be complete without some kind of alternative fuel powertrain, so Ford has given the Ford Evos Concept a lithium-ion battery plug-in hybrid system, which Ford says is reflective of the system in the upcoming Ford C-MAX Energi, scheduled for introduction in the US in 2012 and Europe in 2013.

The system allows the vehicle’s electric motor and internal combustion engine to work together or separately to maximise efficiency, making this a full fledged hybrid system instead of just having a simple motor assist system.

Look after the jump for a small gallery of the Evos Concept.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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Land Rover Defender DC100 Concept to debut at Frankfurt

Paul Tan — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 10:43:18 +0000

Is the Land Rover Defender about to get a massive makeover? It sure looks like Land Rover has the intention, with this new Defender DC100 Concept set to make a public debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

It’s not a bad idea really, after all, all the passenger car companies are having a field day with modern day retro-futuristic interpretations of their muscle car classics – we now have cool modern versions of cars like the Chevrolet Camaro and the Ford Mustang. So why can’t Land Rover do the same?

“Replacing the iconic Defender is one of the biggest challenges in the automotive design world; it is a car that inspires people worldwide. This isn’t a production-ready concept but the beginning of a four-year journey to design a relevant Defender for the 21st century,” says Gerry McGovern, Director of Design, Land Rover.

A new Land Rover Defender is set to be launched in 2015. Revising its design is one thing, but what about its construction? WIll Land Rover replace the Defender’s ladder frame construction with a monocoque design?

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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Peugeot HX1 Concept MPV to debut at Frankfurt 2011

Paul Tan — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 10:16:04 +0000

Peugeot’s latest concept car set for a debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show is an MPV concept called the Peugeot HX1 Concept Car, but it’s not your usual soccer mom van – it’s low slung like a JDM Honda Odyssey.

The HX1 Concept measures 1,373mm tall, 1,990mm wide and 4,954mm long, as a comparison, the Peugeot 5008 is 1,638mm tall, 2,118mm wide and 4,530mm long.

At first glance, it looks as though the HX1 only has two rows of seats, with a maximum seating capacity of four. That’s because by default, the rear row is configured for maximum comfort or leg room.

If required, a “center row” can be created in between the front and rear rows thanks to the “pull-out seats” integrated into the back of the front seats.

The HX1 Concept also featured variable bodywork to optimize the car for aerodynamics at different speeds. A spoiler and two side skirts located at the top of the tailgate are deployed above 100km/h.

Power is provided by Peugeot’s HYbrid4 system, which uses a 204 horsepower 2.2 litre HDi diesel engine coupled with a 95 horsepower electric motor, resulting in a peak output of 299 horsepower. The system uses a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The car also has plug in 240V charging capabilities and an electric only mode, which provides a range of 30km.

Look after the jump for pix of the Peugeot HX1 Concept.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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Aston Martin V12 Zagato endurance racer concept debuts

Anthony Lim — Mon, 23 May 2011 12:08:42 +0000

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Aston Martin’s newest collaboration with Zagato, the V12 Zagato endurance racer concept, was unveiled over the weekend at the Villa D’Este Concours in Lake Como, Italy, primarily as a basis to gauge customer interest, with a view towards a strictly limited run of road-going V12 Zagatos to come about.

The company’s V12 Vantage model provides the basis for the V12 Zagato, but the new two-door, two-seat coupe is very much its own entity design-wise, as should be the case. The new handcrafted aluminium body is shaped in such a manner that’s not possible using pre-formed panel techniques, AM says – utilising the skill of nearly 100 years of heritage in the craft, every aluminium panel on the car has been formed using an English wheel and traditionally-crafted body bucks.

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For example, each front wing comprises seven separate pieces of aluminium, combined and then hand finished to give one flowing form. Another iconic Zagato design cue is the double bubble roof, created in this case from five separate pieces, illustrating further the intensity of craftsmanship involved in the construction of the car.

The V12 Zagato is powered by an all-alloy, quad overhead cam 6.0 litre V12 mill producing 510 hp and 570 Nm of torque, mated to a rear mid-mounted, six-speed automated manual gearbox with auto shift manual/select shift manual (ASM/SSM) electric hydraulic control system.

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Like the first DB4GT Zagato, which was shown to the public in late 1960 and which spent much of its life as a racing car after being launched, the new car is set to walk the same path – the first two V12 Zagatos to be created are set to serve as endurance race cars.

The car will make its racing debut in the 53. ADAC ACAS H&R-Cup VLN round at Nürburgring next week, with a view to two cars racing in the 24 hour race on June 25-26.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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LUXGEN neora concept – transforming ‘cold’ into ‘emotion’

Anthony Lim — Wed, 27 Apr 2011 03:30:48 +0000

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ROC-based carmaker LUXGEN has lifted the covers off its latest creation, called the neora. The intelligent electric concept, as it has been tagged, showcases design cues that will be seen in the company’s upcoming models in the future.

“To transform the cold and rigid industrial product into one of the emotional kind” is what the neora is all about design-wise, says the Taiwanese company. Well, nothing like infusing warmth and character into an inanimate object, or attempting to, hey?

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The front-wheel-drive vehicle is powered by a 180 kW electric induction motor, with juice coming from a 48 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which can be charged to 80% within an hour. On a single charge, the battery provides enough zip for up to 400 km of travel distance.

Performance specs for the 1,600 kg include a 0-100 kph time of 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 250 kph.

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Features on the neora include a head-up display, a PDLC electric glass sunroof, a LED display infotainment system for the rear passengers and a 9-inch active intelligent information system display on the centre console, which offers navigation and information exchange with other suitably-equipped vehicles.

Inside, there’s a big nod to environmental sustainability, with the futuristic cabin featuring the use of eco-friendly trim. Everything works around the chosen earth tone shade – with the grey-theme highlighted by blue accents – including the recycled wood found in the mix.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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Nissan Compact Sport Concept – 190 hp 1.6 litre flash hatch

Anthony Lim — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 04:30:49 +0000

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Well, here’s a cute little critter then, though perhaps it may be a bit too kitschy for many. It’s called the Nissan Compact Sport Concept, and it’s a Nissan debutant at the ongoing Auto Shanghai 2011, along with other cars like the new Latio.

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Designed in collaboration by Nissan’s global design headquarters in Japan and the company’s new design studio in Beijing, the three-door concept hatch – which Nissan says is designed for young customers in emerging countries – certainly displays a fair bit of bling.

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Details are minimal about the car, which is believed to sit on a Micra (March) platform (and looking like it overdosed on steroids), save the fact that it’s equipped with a direct-injection turbocharged 1.6 litre lump offering 190 hp, mated to a six-speed CVT gearbox with a manual shift mode.

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Elsewhere, it’s all pretty much flash; the external bulges make for great eye-candy for those into such curves and flair, and the interior displays enough attention-grabbing bits too – the contrasting black and white interior features red for highlight accents and plenty of oval-shaped cues. No mention if this one will ever come into series production (the 4th-gen K13 Micra/March is only a year old, so it’s not a preview of a replacement), but you can never tell these days.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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Infiniti JX luxury crossover to join line-up in 2012

Anthony Lim — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 02:32:03 +0000

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Infiniti has announced that it will be bringing the JX, an all-new three-row luxury crossover, into the market sometime in the second quarter of 2012. The company has released an exterior sketch of the JX, and states that the brand styling theme will continue with a “crescent cut” greenhouse design influenced by the Infiniti Essence concept car.

The seven-seater promises to have a stunning interior, offer exceptional seating flexibility and easy access to the roomy third row, as well as being equipped with the latest in-vehicle technology, including next-generation telematics.

More details will emerge when the JX concept is shown at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance this August – the production version is slated to make its global debut at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show in November.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 27 May 12 15:38:45 +0000.

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