modification of automotive technology: concept car

Showing posts with label concept car. Show all posts

Germany’s E-Wolf Targets Ferrari With New Electric Supercar

<center><img alt="E-Wolf E2 concept rendering" height="266" src="http://images.thecarconnection.com/med/e-wolf-e2-concept-rendering_100229825_m.jpg" title="E-Wolf E2 concept rendering" width="400"></center> It seems these days that a new electric sports car concept is announced almost every month but it's not often that we get to see the actual concept in the metal, so to speak, or in the case of the new E1, in the carbon-fiber composite. The E1 electric roadster is the latest creation of German firm E-Wolf and it is just one of two new electric vehicles from the company, with the latter vehicle set to compete with the likes of Ferrari in the performance arena. <center><img alt="E-Wolf E1 electric roadster" height="270" src="http://images.thecarconnection.com/med/e-wolf-e1-electric-roadster_100229819_m.jpg" style="margin: 0pt 5px;" width="400"></center> Working in partnership with the Saxony Lightweight Center and the Institute for Lightweight Structures and Polymer Technology at the Technical University of Dresden, E-Wolf unveiled its street-legal E1 roadster at the recent 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show and plans to add the E2 supercar to its lineup in about two years. The key to the cars’ performance is a light weight structure. In the case of the E1, the entire chassis weighs in at just 1,102-pounds but this comes at a cost as the vehicle can only accommodate drivers weighing up to 150-pounds. <center><img alt="E-Wolf E1 electric roadster" height="267" src="http://images.thecarconnection.com/med/e-wolf-e1-electric-roadster_100229820_m.jpg" style="margin: 0pt 5px; display: inline;" width="400"></center> Power comes from a 150-horsepower AC induction motor with 185-pound-feet of torque. This is enough to propel the E1 from 0-62 mph in less than five seconds and see it reach a top speed of 143 mph. An array of lithium-ion batteries will see the E1 drive up to 200-miles on a single charge. While the E1 can be bought today at a price of €150,000 (approximately $218,818), E-Wolf is also working on an E2 supercar due in 2011. <center><img alt="E-Wolf E2 concept rendering" height="269" src="http://images.thecarconnection.com/med/e-wolf-e2-concept-rendering_100229826_m.jpg" title="E-Wolf E2 concept rendering" width="400"></center> The E2 will feature four electric motors, one in each wheel, delivering a combined output of 544-horsepower and 737-pound-feet of torque--All this in a chassis that is expected to weigh around 2,000-pounds. So far the E2 only exists in computer-generated rendering form but its designers promise the car will be able to reach a top speed of 155 mph. Hopefully the production version will stay true to the concept’s lines. <a href="http://www.motorauthority.com/pictures/1035851_germany8217s-e-wolf-targets-ferrari-with-new-electric-supercar_gallery-1#100229820"> More Photos</a>

Germany’s E-Wolf Targets Ferrari With New Electric Supercar

It seems these days that a new electric sports car concept is announced almost every month but it's not often that we get to see the act...

8:32 PM

BMW Lovos concept makes Chris Bangle look drab

<center><img alt="" height="293" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/bmw-lovos-concept-large_19.jpg" width="400"></center> It must be fun to be a car designer. Unless, of course, your name becomes synonymous with a specific styling trend that very few seem to appreciate... but we digress. It definitely seems that 24-year-old Pforzheim University graduate Anne Forschner had a good time coming up with her BMW Lovos concept, which can alternatively look either like a frightened porcupine or svelte salmon, depending on its needs at the time. <center><img alt="" height="309" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/bmw-lovos-concept-large_15.jpg" width="400"></center> The exterior of the Lovos � which somewhat ironically stands for Lifestyle of Voluntary Simplicity � is theoretically constructed from just one fully exchangeable part that recurs 260 times. Each exterior piece is covered in solar photovoltaic cells and can hinge on a substructure underneath to follow the sun or act as individual airbrakes. We can only assume the concept would be powered by electricity, as it makes our hairs stand up on end. <center><img alt="" height="268" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/bmw-lovos-concept-large_18.jpg" width="400"></center> 　<a href="http://www.autoblog.com/gallery/bmw-lovos-concept/#6">More Photos </a>

BMW Lovos concept makes Chris Bangle look drab

It must be fun to be a car designer. Unless, of course, your name becomes synonymous with a specific styling trend that very few seem to ap...

7:14 AM

Video: BMW Vision ED Concept Slated ...

<center><img alt="BMW Vision EfficienctDynamics Concept" height="228" name="image" src="http://img.worldcarfans.com/2009/8/medium/4610063.jpg" width="400"> </center> A new report has surfaced indicating that BMW will build a production version of the Vision EfficientDynamics Concept. <center><img alt="BMW Vision EfficienctDynamics Concept" height="284" name="image0" src="http://img.worldcarfans.com/2009/8/medium/7834174.jpg" width="400"> </center> Like the VED concept, the M1 will be powered by a three-cylinder turbo-diesel engine and an electric motor. While details are limited, the combined output is expected to be more than 350 bhp and 800 Nm of torque. If these figures are correct, the M1 will likely accelerate from 0-60 mph in less than five seconds, before hitting an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. <center><img alt="BMW Vision EfficienctDynamics Concept" height="245" name="image1" src="http://img.worldcarfans.com/2009/8/medium/1595849.jpg" width="400"> </center> Set to revive the legendary M1 name, the fuel efficient supercar will reportedly adopt the concept's aggressive styling and advanced powertrain. Inside, the car will feature a three-dimensional head-up display, a "digital dash" and a two-plus-two seating arrangement. <center><img alt="BMW Vision EfficienctDynamics Concept" height="535" name="image2" src="http://img.worldcarfans.com/2009/8/medium/3882538.jpg" width="400"> </center> According to an Auto Express source, the engine is almost production ready and some of the hybrid components will be taken from the X6 ActiveHybrid. If BMW is planning on production, look for a launch in 2012. <center><object height="280" width="400"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/CLGygbCr3sg"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></object></center> <a href="http://www.worldcarfans.com/109092522006/rumors-bmw-vision-ed-concept-slated-for-2012-as-m1-green/lowphotos#2">More Photos</a>

Video: BMW Vision ED Concept Slated ...

A new report has surfaced indicating that BMW will build a production version of the Vision EfficientDynamics Concept. Like the VED...

6:52 AM

Frankfurt 2009: Volkswagen L1 Concept

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifejKRYtSlXNacTTa3q71AQ8nN11UMjo7XBUMKcca4U6Xeqh32vZpE3nyxz5Xj6EQnEMh0WgM1Y1lncA4n0GmUIKahddL1NVDzkav37O0g216yqreDeK-iD29ZgxjnfnQL5EEug9B-xII/s1600-h/2009-volkswagen-l1-concept_100228601_l.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383475885562059698" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifejKRYtSlXNacTTa3q71AQ8nN11UMjo7XBUMKcca4U6Xeqh32vZpE3nyxz5Xj6EQnEMh0WgM1Y1lncA4n0GmUIKahddL1NVDzkav37O0g216yqreDeK-iD29ZgxjnfnQL5EEug9B-xII/s400/2009-volkswagen-l1-concept_100228601_l.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" /></a> The L1 name refers to the European concept of a "1-Liter" car, meaning one so efficient it uses no more than 1.0 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. If you're not particularly metric, that translates to 235 miles per gallon. VW didn't quite make its mark; the L1 actually uses 1.38 L/100 km, meaning its gas mileage is "only" 170 miles per gallon. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5FKe7y0oG-X3BL_KiGL_7GGRsXx-nN9SqmOaBNnXypiXDODCn858jltm-2NTyFzgotNKG-EJJPh2b9PaThr_st_1hmJCLqETP_gucpYTKK6dt_G1D1Ox2KxISxMwF4H3Fj7tONFY9h-4/s1600-h/2009-volkswagen-l1-leak_100228529_m.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383475753093897458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5FKe7y0oG-X3BL_KiGL_7GGRsXx-nN9SqmOaBNnXypiXDODCn858jltm-2NTyFzgotNKG-EJJPh2b9PaThr_st_1hmJCLqETP_gucpYTKK6dt_G1D1Ox2KxISxMwF4H3Fj7tONFY9h-4/s400/2009-volkswagen-l1-leak_100228529_m.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a> The rear-mounted engine, a 0.8-liter two-cylinder turbocharged diesel, is essentially half of VW's current 1.6-liter TDI turbodiesel engine. It puts out 27 horsepower in Eco mode, which rises to 39 hp in Sport mode, and drives through a 7-speed direct-shift gearbox (DSG) paired with a 14-hp hybrid electric system that switches off the engine as the car comes to a stop. <a href="http://www.greencarreports.com/blog/1035226_frankfurt-volkswagens-radical-170-mpg-diesel-two-seater">more detail</a>. ...

Frankfurt 2009: Volkswagen L1 Concept

The L1 name refers to the European concept of a "1-Liter" car, meaning one so efficient it uses no more than 1.0 liters of fuel pe...

2:11 AM

Frankfurt Motor Show: Renault goes Twizy

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9MlndMwHnDDkld-JRADwgzTPVO5G0a8DlxzyD23ee5q4ePZ-CUfq5uBMOQVFqvJwHpi6_G-myhFlM-342IWuDsGi3DRU_sGc79hLkF-WHr1_Urc769Z9BwdrQRv-rRW6JDdYDrNZnwO4/s1600-h/dsc_0331.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382389882209194498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9MlndMwHnDDkld-JRADwgzTPVO5G0a8DlxzyD23ee5q4ePZ-CUfq5uBMOQVFqvJwHpi6_G-myhFlM-342IWuDsGi3DRU_sGc79hLkF-WHr1_Urc769Z9BwdrQRv-rRW6JDdYDrNZnwO4/s400/dsc_0331.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a> The more we see of Renault's all-electric line-up on display at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the more we want to hang out at company cocktail parties. Something delicious and potent must be on tap there. From the elegant and unexpected lines of the Zoe (above, note the recycle logo) to the buggy quirkiness of the Twizy, Renault is displaying some truly fun-looking electric cars here. Now if only these things were available to drive off the lot today, we'd really be getting somewhere. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilw-SE4YOt94tAqJ4eC1grETxc_hyphenhyphen3xRWEYEUGEJkJNY0TpnHO2IkcByKipmnH6SakROt_q6t6o3Mrubb5v48-Nkc6jqEZeWgVPKOgNecpNxsO-yQ0iPjXpL-LktagSOghm3C3R0zmH4I/s1600-h/dsc_0303.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382389634559957858" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilw-SE4YOt94tAqJ4eC1grETxc_hyphenhyphen3xRWEYEUGEJkJNY0TpnHO2IkcByKipmnH6SakROt_q6t6o3Mrubb5v48-Nkc6jqEZeWgVPKOgNecpNxsO-yQ0iPjXpL-LktagSOghm3C3R0zmH4I/s400/dsc_0303.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijnHqx3sM8I3Qn2yU2u1TamCMFrwG3nLfIvLANucl0VS49ckpsA-YO3Wt1eAvxjWhl6AWTJ3YrbI-bH8e8v_57WAqlpuv8A6DVBJaHBzJaUJ84tl4MQV3KXgeKc1odMl92tquHtW6PEUw/s1600-h/dsc_0298.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382388817655977138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijnHqx3sM8I3Qn2yU2u1TamCMFrwG3nLfIvLANucl0VS49ckpsA-YO3Wt1eAvxjWhl6AWTJ3YrbI-bH8e8v_57WAqlpuv8A6DVBJaHBzJaUJ84tl4MQV3KXgeKc1odMl92tquHtW6PEUw/s400/dsc_0298.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8LxpP0DmKwJeridt3y_iF0F98jHtLqkdg7q84kQ0z3akHCjQEMdH4G3In5Ozq22gbkR2TcddKQDb_uL5OXjkoOYOt8Wd86t0dq8mkZ4Zf0nZDjqeSqIeCrydukM7q-IgR0Fvm0MMR7kQ/s1600-h/dsc_0406.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382387607542157298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8LxpP0DmKwJeridt3y_iF0F98jHtLqkdg7q84kQ0z3akHCjQEMdH4G3In5Ozq22gbkR2TcddKQDb_uL5OXjkoOYOt8Wd86t0dq8mkZ4Zf0nZDjqeSqIeCrydukM7q-IgR0Fvm0MMR7kQ/s400/dsc_0406.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a> <a href="http://green.autoblog.com/gallery/frankfurt-2009-renault-twizy-zoe-kangoo-and-fluence-evs/#9">More Photos</a>

Frankfurt Motor Show: Renault goes Twizy

The more we see of Renault's all-electric line-up on display at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the more we want to hang out at company cockta...

3:23 AM

Videos: Renault Twizy ZE Concept

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgON9EgGdDTqcpVmKa6Wt20qhV5v-5TqCtqEeLW4yRS1EN9p8BpifG-p5VGZFQExpfFRXFoHOfqG6WmERd_Gti6OLBTGXYbGWsp1bBPixDfwtGi_oVbvdOZ6fzPdY8TBiF_JDA_BQ6eKqY/s1600-h/citroe16.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381666671348485266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgON9EgGdDTqcpVmKa6Wt20qhV5v-5TqCtqEeLW4yRS1EN9p8BpifG-p5VGZFQExpfFRXFoHOfqG6WmERd_Gti6OLBTGXYbGWsp1bBPixDfwtGi_oVbvdOZ6fzPdY8TBiF_JDA_BQ6eKqY/s400/citroe16.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></a> Renault Twizy ZE Concept is an innovative response to the challenge of urban mobility. With its four wheel chassis, Renault Twizy ZE Concept offers the driver and passenger – seated one behind the other – an all-electric means of transport which produces no CO2 emissions. Renault Twizy ZE Concept is compact, nimble and practical – everything you need in city traffic. The wraparound bodywork creates a safe, reassuring cocoon which offers first class protection for both the driver and the passenger. Power comes from a 15kW electric motor which develops 70Nm of torque, making it versatile and easy to drive. The acceleration performance of Renault Twizy ZE Concept in urban and suburban traffic is comparable to that of a 125cc motorbike. A VEHICLE FOR BUSY CITY-DWELLERS… Renault Twizy ZE Concept is an all-electric vehicle aimed primarily at busy city dwellers who need to pick their way through the urban jungle. Every day, they juggle work commitments with a busy social life, so efficiency, speed and simplicity are key. The ultra-compact dimensions of Renault Twizy ZE Concept (2.30m in length, and just 1.13m wide) ensure that it is nimble enough for urban use. The four-wheel arrangement, open bodywork and a seat formatwhich puts the driver and passenger behind one another express Renault Twizy ZE Concept's distinctive character. ...LOOKING FOR A PRACTICAL AND SAFE MEANS OF TRANSPORT For its occupants, Renault Twizy ZE Concept represents a highly practical solution to the problem of urban mobility. With a turning circle of just three meters and a footprint barely larger than that of a scooter,Renault Twizy ZE Concept is easy to park in town. At the wheel, easy, agile handling ensures that it rarelygets stuck in traffic, while the four wheels and low center of gravity provide excellent stability. Inside, the priority has been to make Renault Twizy ZE Concept easy to drive. Data is easy for the driver to take in, with displays located at eye level at the base of the windscreen, and grouped in honeycomb10 shape clusters which are easy to differentiate. For the passenger, getting into the rear seat is simple: the seatback is attached to the roof of the vehicle, allowing the lower part of the seat to pivot. The rear seat can even be adjusted to suit the passenger's height: the seat cushion can be turned over to become a booster cushion and afford a child better visibility. When the cushion is used as a booster inthis way, it frees up a load volume of 10 liters, as a complement to the initial 50 liters, and in complement to the 3 liters provided by the cubbies on either side of the steering wheel. <center><object height="260" width="400"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/auwQLcO5H2w&hl=en&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/auwQLcO5H2w&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="260" width="400"></object></center> Renault Twizy ZE Concept provides optimum levels of safety. The bodywork doesn't just protect the occupants from poor weather; it is also far more visible in traffic to other road users and effectivelyconstitutes a safety cell. A deformable structure protects occupants in the event of a frontal impact while lateral reinforcement bars provide protection in the case of an impact from the side. The retention systems include a four-point harness for the front seat and a three-point seatbelt at the rear, plus a driver airbag and two lateral airbags. A NEW ERA OF ALL-ELECTRIC MOBILITY With its futuristic, pearlescent white bodywork, Renault Twizy ZE Concept clearly belongs to a new era of urban mobility. As opposed to a conventional car, the body colour wheel fairings are not spherical but octagonal, and cover the tyres entirely. Along with the pearlescent white and blue hub caps, they form a pleasing, harmonious design in which the wheels can no longer be seen rotating. Instead, the only visible movement is that of the hub caps, so Twizy ZE Concept appears to glide gracefully and silently, along the road. In keeping with this fresh approach to mobility, Twizy ZE Concept offers its occupants a new, simple and reassuring environment. The front and rear ends of Renault Twizy ZE Concept are equipped with a luminous matrix display, the honeycomb-shaped diodes of which allow the driver to interrelate with his or her immediate surroundings. In addition to serving as headlights and rear lights, these diodes can also produce 'smileys' which change expression as a function of the message the driver wishes to communicate. Inside, the cabin is brightly lit thanks to the bodywork's extensive glazed surface. The blue and white colour scheme creates a soothing atmosphere which isolates the passengers from the stress of urban activity. Optimizing the vehicle's range is simple and worry-free, with a poetic touch: remaining range is depicted by a lotus flower on the dashboard, with petals that close progressively as the range decreases. Renault Twizy ZE Concept is powered by a 15kW (20hp) electric motor. This develops 70Nm of torque, and combines comfort with responsive performance at all engine speeds. Twizy ZE Concept can accelerate at a similar rate to a 125cc bike, and pulls away briskly from standstill. With a top speed of 75kph, Renault Twizy ZE Concept will also be in its element in suburban traffic. The energy available onboard Twizy ZE Concept serves just one purpose – mobility. The open chassis calls for neither heating nor climate control, both of which consume a significant amount of energy. This, coupled with the vehicle's low weight (it tips the scales at just 420kg, complete with batteries), contributes directly to Renault Twizy ZE Concept's range which can reach 100km. The lithium-ion batteries for Twizy ZE Concept are located beneath the two seats. They are charged by means of an extendible cable located behind the Renault logo at the front. This cable can be plugged into a 220V 10A or 16A domestic socket, and will fully charge the batteries in just three and a half hours. Renault Twizy ZE Concept is the forerunner of one of the all-electric mobility solutions that Renault will introduce from 2011.

Videos: Renault Twizy ZE Concept

Renault Twizy ZE Concept is an innovative response to the challenge of urban mobility. With its four wheel chassis, Renault Twizy ZE Concept...

5:11 AM

International Motor Show 2009, Frankfurt am Main

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjahR5sRGfnSEJgAclLXOHn-O8sjcZOHNKnWU4tNZfJ-2L5JaqwoNp9ZTzSa4Dq6z74gH_E5Bl3HRirhTapsu2-ADVGyFvPrVxdrR02kqO-hR7tFcyob0BJgLC6qMsFdvzauWWvBesgbk8/s1600-h/a_f09_002.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381658311940962754" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjahR5sRGfnSEJgAclLXOHn-O8sjcZOHNKnWU4tNZfJ-2L5JaqwoNp9ZTzSa4Dq6z74gH_E5Bl3HRirhTapsu2-ADVGyFvPrVxdrR02kqO-hR7tFcyob0BJgLC6qMsFdvzauWWvBesgbk8/s400/a_f09_002.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 226px;" /></a> Frankfurt – Audi presents the highlight of the IAA 2009: the e-tron, a high-performance sports car with a purely electric drive system. Four motors – two each at the front and rear axles – drive the wheels, making the concept car a true quattro. Producing 230 kW (313 hp) and 4,500 Nm (3,319.03 lb-ft) of torque, the two-seater accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0 – 62.14 mph) in 4.8 seconds, and from 60 to 120 km/h (37.28 – 74.56 mph) in 4.1 seconds. The lithium-ion battery provides a truly useable energy content of 42.4 kilowatt hours to enable a range of approximately 248 kilometers. The performance figures are by no means the only evidence of the consistent and holistic strategy. The design makes it clear that the e-tron belongs in the major leagues of sports cars, and the package takes into account the specific realities of an electric vehicle. The battery is directly behind the passenger cabin for an optimal center of gravity and axle load distribution. The e-tron is able to freely distribute the powerful torque of its four electric motors to the wheels as required. This so-called torque vectoring allows for dazzling dynamics and an undreamed-of level of agility and precision when cornering. Audi has taken a new and in some cases revolutionary approach to many of the technical modules. A heat pump is used to efficiently warm up and heat the interior. The drive system, the power electronics and the battery are controlled by an innovative thermal management system that is a crucial component for achieving the car's range without compromising its high level of interior comfort. Networking the vehicle electronics with the surroundings, which is referred to as car-to-x communication, opens new dimensions for the optimization of efficiency, safety and convenience. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1zYXTznfeC6mrWjT2QY_lu0RDfE21Tw8FxwFwXTcb0IwpysmVc1nsL-YFVF6vZd424bGhHxqAyNlE6mJsz9pln81vPpgWffk4P3BQgXgskjZjcdZInM_BzwuyDZ9o7Xm_VZY5Ei9zCKo/s1600-h/a_f09_001_1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381657646932173314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1zYXTznfeC6mrWjT2QY_lu0RDfE21Tw8FxwFwXTcb0IwpysmVc1nsL-YFVF6vZd424bGhHxqAyNlE6mJsz9pln81vPpgWffk4P3BQgXgskjZjcdZInM_BzwuyDZ9o7Xm_VZY5Ei9zCKo/s400/a_f09_001_1.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 262px;" /></a> The Concept Electric drive systems are still very much outsiders. The first vehicles of this type took to the roads around 1900, yet in 2009 no volume car manufacturer has a car powered exclusively by batteries in its lineup. Fewer than 1,500 electric vehicles are currently registered in Germany, corresponding to only 0.035 percent of all registered vehicles. Yet electric driving potentially offers numerous advantages. Electric cars reduce the dependence of transportation and the economy on the raw material petroleum. They produce no direct exhaust emissions and thus ease the local burden on the environment. Electric drive systems are also significantly more efficient than combustion engines, consequently making them easier on the customers' wallets. Other strengths include sportiness and the fun they bring to driving. All of the torque is essentially available the moment the driver steps on the accelerator, allowing for breathtaking acceleration. There is still a lot of work to do before electric cars are ready for volume production, however. The greatest challenge is the integration of the energy storage system. Acceptable range and performance requires a traction battery that is heavy and takes up a lot of space. Audi is taking a new approach to offset these disadvantages – a holistic approach with a specific vehicle package, a systematic lightweight construction concept and an optimal configuration of all components for the electric drive. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFnzANep74ibk5MOKFzE6r6b548eUkgYdMInyUpynE_7oHdIW4y4mZbrbZ_GKKWNob8L4gzumYXlfJOshK1P1XlHdZF1RAQogKr32SZAloDe2TV5KSIiFQfema8rCq9FICz0XX73q53FA/s1600-h/a_f09_003.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381656999025914338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFnzANep74ibk5MOKFzE6r6b548eUkgYdMInyUpynE_7oHdIW4y4mZbrbZ_GKKWNob8L4gzumYXlfJOshK1P1XlHdZF1RAQogKr32SZAloDe2TV5KSIiFQfema8rCq9FICz0XX73q53FA/s400/a_f09_003.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 226px;" /></a> Audi e-tron – The Holistic Approach The most important development related to batteries for electric drives are lithium-ion cells. Numerous experts throughout the world are working on their further development for use in cars, with the primary objectives being to reduce weight and increase capacity and performance. Audi has also opted for this technology, both for use in a hybrid production vehicle, such as the upcoming Q5 hybrid, and in the e-tron test platform. The requirement specification for the concept vehicle goes far beyond battery technology and the replacement of the combustion engine with an electric drive system, however. The Audi development engineers decided back in the concept phase to design practically every component and technology based on the new requirements of electric mobility. The interaction of all elements has a decisive influence on the factors efficiency, range and practicality. The Audi team therefore focused its attention on the total vehicle, which is reflected in the comprehensive requirement specification. • The reduction of road resistances and the resulting increase in range plays a major role with electric vehicles. Lightweight construction was therefore a top priority for the e-tron concept car. The body, in particular, combines low weight with supreme strength and rigidity. An intelligent aerodynamics concept with active elements helps to reduce consumption. • The package ensures the safe integration of the electric drive system and the battery. Placing the battery in front of the rear axle ensures an optimal axle load distribution without compromising the compact overall design and the generous amount of interior space. • Advanced battery technology enables a practical range. The battery system is water-cooled for optimal performance and service life. • A needs-based energy management system controls all functions for the chassis, convenience equipment and other auxiliary consumers. • The innovative thermal management system with optimally matched cooling and heating components considers the cooling requirements of the battery and the drive system in addition to the interior temperature. • Driving dynamics and road comfort are what Audi customers have come to expect in the sports car segment. • Vehicle safety is on par with the best of today's production vehicles. • The driver is provided with clear and comprehensive information. • The e-tron concept car uses car-to-x communication technology developed by Audi to improve the efficiency of conventionally powered vehicles. For example, information about traffic light cycle times and the flow of traffic – provided by the infrastructure and other vehicles – is used to compute an optimal driving strategy. Audi has already modeled such a solution in Ingolstadt as part of its "travolution" project. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdNjO4aTBfj_kG4Zl3r3v5TnJRS8VQpsbbkSuZ37gzeHkPybh6rXN7PRlnvIVIdCAwE1tHB5NpRYbMa5JRLpqEUNYnLwvoNWEuS9jKjq2A_I61cYd5ZXNw-NlwCaimvWjXKsYPKlxYzAY/s1600-h/int_001_1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381657973063689618" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdNjO4aTBfj_kG4Zl3r3v5TnJRS8VQpsbbkSuZ37gzeHkPybh6rXN7PRlnvIVIdCAwE1tHB5NpRYbMa5JRLpqEUNYnLwvoNWEuS9jKjq2A_I61cYd5ZXNw-NlwCaimvWjXKsYPKlxYzAY/s400/int_001_1.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" /></a> Design and Package The caliber of the car is apparent to the observer at first glance. The Audi e-tron has a wide, powerful stance on the road. The car body seems almost monolithic; the closed rear end appears powerful and muscular. The trapeze of the single-frame grille dominates the front end and is flanked by two large air intakes. The top of the grille merges into the flat strips of the adaptive matrix beam headlamp modules with their clear glass covers. High-efficiency LED technology is used for all lighting units – a matter of honor for Audi as the worldwide pioneer in this field. The headlamps are the core of a fully automatic light assistance system that reacts flexibly to any situation. The new technology recognizes weather conditions and adapts the illumination to rain or fog. The technology at the heart of the light assistance system is a camera that works together with a fast computer to detect oncoming traffic, recognize lanes and measure visibilities, such as in the event of fog. If there is oncoming traffic, for example, the high beams are turned off in the corresponding section of the illumination field. The cornering light system analyzes data from the navigation system and illuminates corners before the driver steers into them. The Audi e-tron does not have conventional fog lamps that consume additional power. It instead intelligently varies the low beams to widen the illumination field, thus significantly reducing the glare from the car's own lights. The variability of the headlamps is also reflected in their design. The LED elements change appearance and thus the character of the front end of the vehicle depending on the speed driven and the ambient conditions. The innovative lighting technology offers the Audi designers almost as much design freedom as the shape of the body does. A new design element unique to the e-tron are the air intakes in the single-frame grille and in front of the rear wheel wells. They are closed flush under normal circumstances and opened by means of flaps when additional cooling air is required. Maximum efficiency is also the reason behind this measure. The concept car has a remarkably low drag coefficient, which gets even better when the flaps are closed. The vehicle body is compact. The sweeping line of the front end and the flat curved roof immediately identify the two-seater as an Audi. The contours of the flanks are familiar. The tapering of the dynamic line above the sill and the shoulder line tie together the front end, the side and the rear, lend a plastic quality to the doors and the transition to the side air intake and sharply emphasize the Audi-typical round wheel wells with the large, 19-inch tires. 1.90 meters (74.80 in) wide, just 4.26 meters (167.72 in) long and 1.23 meters (48.43 in) tall – those are the proportions of a supercar. The wheelbase of 2.60 meters (102.36 in) leaves plenty of room between the axles for people and technology. Like with a mid-engined sports car, the cabin of the e-tron is shifted far forward toward the front axle, leaving room in front of the rear axle for the roughly 470 kilogram (1036.17 lb) battery unit, the inverter and the power electronics. The two electric motors, which have their own cooling system, are mounted behind the rear axle. The front electric motors are mounted on the front axle, with their cooling system arranged in front of them. This special package, which features a 42:58 weight distribution, ensures perfect balance, which contributes to the driving dynamics of the e-tron. Systematic lightweight construction is an even more important prerequisite for efficiency and range with electric vehicles than for conventionally powered automobiles. The Audi development engineers drew on the core competence of the company for the e-tron. The body structure is based on Audi Space Frame (ASF) technology and was realized as a hybrid construction. All add-on parts – doors, covers, sidewalls and roof – are made of a fiber-reinforced plastic. The combination of aluminum and carbon fiber-reinforced composite material guarantees supreme rigidity coupled with low weight. Audi will soon use this technology in a similar form for production vehicles. Despite the complex drive system layout with four electric motors and a high-capacity battery system, the total weight of the Audi e-tron is only around 1,600 kilograms (3527.40 lb). Interior and Control Concept Optical and functional references to the new drive concept characterize the interior design. They establish an advanced connection between proven Audi genes and new formal hallmarks. Typical for the Audi design language is the reduction of the architecture, controls and flow of information to the essential in favor of visible lightweight construction and a tidy overall impression. The dash appears to float and has a curve that extends laterally into the door panels. With no need to allow for a transmission, shifter and cardan tunnel, the designers took advantage of the opportunity to create a particularly slim and lightweight center tunnel and center console. The flush gear selector, with which the driver chooses between the modes forward, reverse and neutral, emerges from the tunnel when the vehicle is started. The cockpit of the e-tron is also oriented toward the driver – a further characteristic Audi trait. Instead of the classic instrument cluster, the concept car is the first Audi to be equipped with a large, fold-out central display with integrated MMI functions. It is flanked by two round dials. The MMI is controlled via a scroll pad with a touch-sensitive surface on the steering wheel ("MMI touch") – an element inspired by modern smartphones. While an analog speedometer on the right provides speed information, the instrument on the left tells the driver how much power is being drawn. The central display shows the range in the status bar and presents all key information from the infotainment and navigation systems. It also provides the driver with relevant data from the vehicle's communication with its surroundings. The instruments combine the analog and the digital worlds into a single unit. Characteristic for the concept of the Audi e-tron is the near total elimination of switches and small components such as the ignition. The climate control unit is located to the right above the steering wheel. The display provides temperature and ventilation information. Again drawing inspiration from a smartphone, the system is controlled by means of a touch-sensitive sliding control. The racing-inspired lightweight bucket seats combine excellent lateral support with comfort. To contrasting colors – snow white and cognac – delineate the various zones of the interior. The colors and the high-quality materials combine elegance and sportiness. Drive System and Energy Supply Four asynchronous motors with a total output of 230 kilowatts (313 hp) give the Audi e-tron the performance of a high-output sports car. The concept car can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0 – 62.14 mph) in 4.8 seconds if necessary, and goes from 60 to 120 km/h (37.28 – 74.56 mph) in 4.1 seconds. The torque flows selectively to the wheels based on the driving situation and the condition of the road surface, resulting in outstanding traction and handling. The top speed is limited to 200 km/h (124.27 mph), as the amount of energy required by the electric motors increases disproportionately to speed. The range in the NECD combined cycle is approximately 248 kilometers (154 miles). This good value is made possible by the integrated concept: technology specially configured for the electric drive system combined with state-of-the-art battery technology. The battery block has a total energy content of roughly 53 kilowatt hours, with the usable portion thereof restricted to 42.4 kWh in the interest of service life. Audi uses liquid cooling for the batteries. The energy storage unit is charged with household current (230 volts, 16 amperes) via a cable and a plug. The socket is behind a cover at the back of the car. With the battery fully discharged, the charging time is between 6 and 8 hours. A high voltage (400 volts, 63 amperes) reduces this to just around 2.5 hours. The Audi engineers are working on a wireless solution to make charging more convenient. The inductive charging station, which can be placed in the garage at home or also in special parking garages, is activated automatically when the vehicle is docked. Such technology is already used today in a similar form to charge electric toothbrushes. The battery is charged not only when the car is stationary, but also when it is in motion. The keyword here is recuperation. This form of energy recovery and return to the battery is already available today in a number of Audi production models. During braking, the alternator converts the kinetic energy into electrical energy, which it then feeds into the onboard electrical system. The Audi e-tron, which is slowed by four lightweight ceramic brake discs, takes the next large step into the future. An electronic brake system makes it possible to tap into the recuperation potential of the electric motors. A hydraulic fixed-caliper brake is mounted on the front axle, with two novel electrically-actuated floating-caliper brakes mounted on the rear axle. These floating calipers are actuated not by any mechanical or hydraulic transfer elements, but rather by wire ("brake by wire"). In addition, this eliminates frictional losses due to residual slip when the brakes are not being applied. This decoupling of the brake pedal enables the e-tron's electric motors to convert all of the braking energy into electricity and recover it. The electromechanical brake system is only activated if greater deceleration is required. These control actions are unnoticeable to the driver, who feels only a predictable and constant pedal feel as with a hydraulic brake system. Making its Automotive Debut: The Heat Pump The heat pump – used here for the first time ever in an automobile – also serves to increase efficiency and range. Unlike a combustion engine, the electric drive system may not produce enough waste heat under all operating conditions to effectively heat the interior. Other electric vehicles are equipped with electric supplemental heaters, which consume a relatively large amount of energy. The heat pump used by Audi – and commonly used in buildings – is a highly efficient machine that uses mechanical work to provide heat with a minimum input of energy. A high-efficiency climate control system is used to cool the interior. It works together with the thermal management system to also control the temperature of the high-voltage battery. The battery, the power electronics and the electric motors must be kept at their respective ideal operating temperatures to achieve optimal performance and range. As soon as the vehicle is connected to a charging station the vehicle is preconditioned as appropriate by the thermal management and other associated systems. The drive system is heated if temperatures are cool, and cooled if hot. This preconditioning can also be extended to the interior, if necessary, so that the passengers can step into a cabin that has been heated or cooled as appropriate for their comfort. Driving Dynamics The normal distribution of the tractive power is clearly biased toward the rear axle in accordance with the weight distribution of the e-tron. Similarly to a mid-engined sports car, roughly 70 percent of the power goes the rear and 30 percent to the front. If an axle slips, this balance can be varied by means of the four centrally controlled electric motors. The electric vehicle from Audi thus enjoys all of the advantages of quattro technology. The four individual motors, which in the interest of greater traction are installed behind the wheels as wheel drives, also enable the e-tron's lateral dynamics to be intelligently controlled. Similar to what the sport differential does in conventional quattro vehicles, torque vectoring – the targeted acceleration of individual wheels – makes the e-tron even more dynamic while simultaneously enhancing driving safety. Understeer and oversteer can be corrected by not only targeted activation of the brakes, but also by precise increases in power lasting just a few milliseconds. The concept car remains extremely neutral even under great lateral acceleration and hustles through corners as if on the proverbial rails. The chassis has triangular double wishbones at the front axle and trapezoidal wishbones made of forged aluminum components at the rear axle – a geometry that has proven in motorsports to be the optimal prerequisite for high agility, uncompromising precision and precisely defined self-steering behavior. A taut setup was chosen for the springs and shock absorbers, but it is still very comfortable. The direct rack-and-pinion steering gives finely differentiated feedback. Its electromechanical steering boost varies with speed, so that the e-tron only has to provide energy while steering, and not while driving straight ahead. As befitting its status, the Audi concept car rolls on 19-inch tires with a new blade design. 235/35 tires up front and 295/30 tires in the rear provide the necessary grip. Car-to-x Communication The electronics development engineers at Audi not only aimed to make the e-tron as efficient and fun to drive as possible, they were also very concerned with safety and traffic management. The technical concept car includes a prototype of an information processing system. Future generations of these systems will usher in a new era in the networking of road traffic, particularly in regions and countries with a high volume of traffic. This progress is made possible by the rapid advancements in computing power, software and communication technology. The buzzword "car-to-x communication" refers to the direct exchange of information in flowing traffic and to the traffic environment. The letter "x" is a free variable that can refer just as easily to other vehicles as to fixed infrastructure such as traffic lights. In contrast to today's telematic systems, car-to-x communication no longer requires a central service provider to quickly and effectively pool and process information. The participants themselves perform these tasks by spontaneously networking with one another. The future car-to-x network still needs some time before it becomes reality on the roads. This obstacle is one that can be overcome, however, as nearly every carmaker in Europe, the U.S.A. and Japan has decided to develop a common standard for hardware and software. Once all new cars are equipped with this technology, a functional network of automotive transmitters will soon be available, at least in large population centers. These transmitters can be used to open up many new practical applications. Below are just four examples showing the possibilities offered by car-to-x communication. Example 1 – Efficiency and range: Numerous external factors influence energy consumption and thus the range of any vehicle. An intelligent vehicle equipped with car-to-x technology is aware of necessary braking or acceleration maneuvers in advance because it combines navigational data with information about the flow of traffic, for example. The central computer can prevent driver actions that would use energy unnecessarily or use targeted braking for recuperation of the battery. Example 2 – Safety: A vehicle has spun out on a slippery road in a blind curve and is unable to free itself under its own power. At the same time, other vehicles are approaching quickly. The stuck vehicle uses car-to-x to send out a warning signal reporting the precise location of the hazardous location. A corresponding warning then appears on the navigation system display of the approaching cars. Example 3 – Traffic flow: Many cars are traveling between traffic lights on an arterial road. Over and over again, they accelerate only to have to brake again when the traffic light changes to red. Car-to-x technology enables them to establish a network between themselves and receive information from the traffic light controller. The drivers can then make more judicious use of the gas pedal because they know what to expect. The same applies for imminent traffic jams: cars ahead provide information that results in adjustments to the posted speed limits, noticeably spreading out the traffic. Example 4 – Convenience: The driver has entered a shopping center with a chronic shortage of parking spaces into his navigation system as the destination. With car-to-x, the mobile system networks with the parking space registration system at the destination. When the system in the parking garage reports that a convenient parking spot is available, the navigation system can register its location and also reserve the spot. Electromobility as an Integrated Concept – the Audi e-performance Support Project • Audi developing a holistic approach for electric driving • New project house unites creativity and expertise • The e-performance support project to be launched in October Audi is working hard on the future of mobility. The company has established a project house for the development of an integrated concept for electric drives in automobiles. As part of this effort, a support project entitled e-performance and funded in part by the German Ministry for Education and Research will be launched on October 1. Institutes and companies from industry and science will be participating in the project. Audi invests roughly two billion euros in development projects each year. Although the primary focus is on the further advancement of the combustion engine and related technologies, a second priority is electromobility. The e-tron showcar is making a powerful statement in this field at the IAA, and Audi is also in the process of strategically bundling its electromobility activities. Audi has established a project house dedicated to electric driving; it will shortly begin work on a project sponsored by the German federal government. The working group and the project bear the same name: e-performance. "We are trying to find a concept that requires no compromises," says Michael Dick, Member of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, Technical Development. "Electromobility means more to us than just electrifying conventional cars. Instead, we are dedicated to a holistic approach to all aspects of the topic." The e-performance project house was established on the premises of Audi Electronics Venture GmbH (AEV). This Audi subsidiary cooperates closely with colleges and universities, research institutes and young startup companies to implement new technologies in the field of electronics. The AEV is located close to the plant grounds, and the project house is staffed by young experts. "We have a mixture of engineering expertise, creativity and a dose of lateral thinking," says Dr. Michael Korte, Head of the e-performance project house. "The project house brings free thinkers together with technical development experts – with designers, engine and chassis engineers, and software specialists." Electric drive technology in automobiles still poses many questions at the moment. Audi is striving to provide holistic answers to these questions, thus creating an architecture comprising all sub-areas of the vehicle. Only when new systems and components are made to work together perfectly can the full potential of electromobility be exploited. Audi is certain that the vehicle concepts will include new, intelligent solutions. "Our holistic concept is complex," says Dr. Christian Allmann, Head of the e-performance support project, "but it is the only way to optimize the primary target parameters of range, performance, reliability, practicality, service life, and cost." One focal point: the battery By its very nature as the heart of the electric car, the battery is the focal point of the studies, which cover such topics as thermal management, capacity, package, weight, safety, service life and integration into the vehicle's heat and energy flows. "We are not working on cell chemistry – we are relying on our strategic partners for that," says Dr. Korte, "but the battery management software will be our know-how." In an electric car, the entire on-board electrical system needs to be completely restructured. Many components that today use the energy and waste heat of the combustion engine - from the power steering to the heater - need a new source of power. The electric motor, the power electronics with their high-voltage components, inverters and transformers as well as the durability of the chips under the demanding conditions in the car are other important fields of work. In addition - and this is what distinguishes the integrated approach - Audi is also studying all other areas of the vehicle. Topics include the flow of forces in the drivetrain, the climate control system, the controls and displays in the cockpit, the vehicle acoustics and the chassis. In this last field, electrically actuated brakes and suspension struts offer great potential. The materials used in the car - which should be as lightweight as possible - and the entire package are another focal point. Electric motors are very compact and can also be placed at the wheels or the axles, but the batteries need their own space. The young team keeps one important aspect in mind every step of the way: even an electric car has to be a true Audi with the strong character that all Audi models have in common. "We will draw on the bundled expertise of the entire company for the design and the lightweight body," says Dr. Korte, "and we are also committed to meeting the high Audi standard in terms of driving dynamics." The bar is high - the three-year e-performance project scheduled to start on October 1 represents a major challenge. It is broken down into nine work packets, from energy storage to driving dynamics. In the initial phases, the participants will work in their various areas primarily using state-of-the-art simulation tools. The project will progress through the construction of sub-modules and test platforms to produce a drivable car. Capable partners from science and industry The German Ministry for Education and Research is providing eight-figure funding for the project. Audi has also recruited renowned partners from the scientific community – the RWTH Aachen, the technical universities of Munich, Dresden and Ilmenau, Leibniz University of Hanover and the Fraunhofer Society. Dr. Allmann reports that besides AEV, Robert Bosch GmbH and Bosch Engineering GmbH have also come on board. The project should benefit all of the partners. Competitiveness in high-tech is a primary objective of the German government, thus the Audi partnership is good for Germany as a site for higher education and industry. The e-performance support project will enable the participants to gain an important know-how advantage. <a href="http://green.autoblog.com/gallery/audi-e-tron-concept/#14">More Photos</a>

International Motor Show 2009, Frankfurt am Main

Frankfurt – Audi presents the highlight of the IAA 2009: the e-tron, a high-performance sports car with a purely electric drive system. Four...

3:57 AM

Video: Bugatti Galibier Concept

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaJzwupO02VilwW8TSO3ncWoqhXz-08G4GouVWWNhGiq7BWo3ULbDrIKvN5R7gqM61suWhD2Xb5vJCzi-bP3UsfEplJNmOwN_5o4pdo4R_jrj0PxJoBZeWaTH_dxs4ehFp-KO3wBoERDA/s1600-h/bugatti-galibier-video.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382369613669816178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaJzwupO02VilwW8TSO3ncWoqhXz-08G4GouVWWNhGiq7BWo3ULbDrIKvN5R7gqM61suWhD2Xb5vJCzi-bP3UsfEplJNmOwN_5o4pdo4R_jrj0PxJoBZeWaTH_dxs4ehFp-KO3wBoERDA/s400/bugatti-galibier-video.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 260px;" /></a> We've seen the pics; we've read the details. Now, it's time for video, and Bugatti seems to have released exactly what we're looking for. The looks of the French supercar maker's Galibier concept are nothing if not striking and controversial, but at the level Bugatti's playing at those descriptors are certainly vastly preferable to boring and staid. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQUPfoEHs5X3NC7U4hNKhVVMe18dJb_XE2zovLOjtpM2mAHnBQZ8glCgt2f33Pb0ZXZzEnqkIyaojZHUwILvRK5g7lA1qgxju6EzECumAC-UvDWe24Ss9AThUoM6eAmHqfiqD8ciWFkcM/s1600-h/bugatti-galibier-large_3.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382369406517363538" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQUPfoEHs5X3NC7U4hNKhVVMe18dJb_XE2zovLOjtpM2mAHnBQZ8glCgt2f33Pb0ZXZzEnqkIyaojZHUwILvRK5g7lA1qgxju6EzECumAC-UvDWe24Ss9AThUoM6eAmHqfiqD8ciWFkcM/s400/bugatti-galibier-large_3.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" /></a> Bugatti says the Galibier's unique dark carbon fiber skin shines blue when illuminated, and you can see that effect much better on video than with static images. Pay special attention to the hood, which features twin side-by-side portals to access the front-mounted, ethanol-burning W16 engine. We could do without the breathless narrator, but as promotional material, we've come to expect nothing less. Hit the jump to watch the video. Thanks for the tip, Slavich! <center><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPjlLSTty_Nlb6mjIorwlzZfz_jeKK8JeMi4i9ZV_lTcUH4guEtVsYc7b8JYV5vw5oYy__44bLi6cdwXwa8aArpAcM_UA0F0aBN40c4exD2XzmMS8IR_FPQAGmWoUpNKKsq6AKHTyjn7M/s1600-h/bugatti-galibier-large_2.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382368944915072178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPjlLSTty_Nlb6mjIorwlzZfz_jeKK8JeMi4i9ZV_lTcUH4guEtVsYc7b8JYV5vw5oYy__44bLi6cdwXwa8aArpAcM_UA0F0aBN40c4exD2XzmMS8IR_FPQAGmWoUpNKKsq6AKHTyjn7M/s400/bugatti-galibier-large_2.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 130px; height: 90px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ2VWiz6W0pudv0ApearqTd2nTwC5jxZCDPWLKMyFymGqVkQ7MEmxAicBCsZA1MFC2GHRP7htO_jsYe3ICBne2-zgk7mCMaU7QboDaN2SJkDaCDCbeAIVWw_6k4ycAiAE8gdjQu7MhNdI/s1600-h/bugatti-galibier-large_1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382368765897581378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ2VWiz6W0pudv0ApearqTd2nTwC5jxZCDPWLKMyFymGqVkQ7MEmxAicBCsZA1MFC2GHRP7htO_jsYe3ICBne2-zgk7mCMaU7QboDaN2SJkDaCDCbeAIVWw_6k4ycAiAE8gdjQu7MhNdI/s400/bugatti-galibier-large_1.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 130px; height: 90px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCHbJpSK9BKmPlvS5OVeqdfnU6sFUEm8VFW_6Ec-4Uw1nSWVKIzQ12upg11t8GT2EdgR7yJHeEz5eSdwtX2oU0QpV5EtBMtNA0a0T-IzpVedBm9h4-es8Ztm2SEsGTZpNJB8FSnzwcVlk/s1600-h/bugatti-galibier-large_5.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382367859519820450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCHbJpSK9BKmPlvS5OVeqdfnU6sFUEm8VFW_6Ec-4Uw1nSWVKIzQ12upg11t8GT2EdgR7yJHeEz5eSdwtX2oU0QpV5EtBMtNA0a0T-IzpVedBm9h4-es8Ztm2SEsGTZpNJB8FSnzwcVlk/s400/bugatti-galibier-large_5.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; width: 130px; height: 90px;" /></a></center> <object height="280" width="400"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/6cYQrfikubc&hl=de&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/6cYQrfikubc&hl=de&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="400" height="280"></embed></object> <a href="http://www.autoblog.com/gallery/bugatti-galibier-concept-0/#6">More Photos</a>

Video: Bugatti Galibier Concept

We've seen the pics; we've read the details. Now, it's time for video, and Bugatti seems to have released exactly what we're...

6:22 AM

VIDEO: Second teaser for of Mini concept

<center><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/50z3xI1TuZ8&hl=en&fs=1&" width="400" height="260" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always"></center> The second video has arrived for the "2 B THRILLED" and "2 B DESIRED" Mini concepts that will show up in Frankfurt next week. This one moves things on a bit from the last one, but it's just as girl-power-ified and just as odd. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYrBki8zC-mZyFt3Y8E_yhD97d0q_PTRBEGQmwGYkSuox4KzOyzvqDDQimwxKWQr6jC5Ks9__KkPVEawRHN5_KvYUdb_dCJZg4NZoG8Bh04-3ALFyxxr6ob124cNkY0KSnKdL9TIaSrTE/s1600-h/3-4-front-1280.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380407990691143826" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYrBki8zC-mZyFt3Y8E_yhD97d0q_PTRBEGQmwGYkSuox4KzOyzvqDDQimwxKWQr6jC5Ks9__KkPVEawRHN5_KvYUdb_dCJZg4NZoG8Bh04-3ALFyxxr6ob124cNkY0KSnKdL9TIaSrTE/s400/3-4-front-1280.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" /></a> At this point, if we find the two concepts in a cage wearing bikinis at the show or in a subsequent video, we will not be surprised. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik7d4VHg5b2OQqQnD7MhirCeA-Ah8yvf-k3Px68dr3cteTefAft4-HMXxgY7EU5GR3xyZg9Ej4_GIW2OBQYXgMz5uFEL1YMgQxngTk3rtL97JNPBK0VpWHa3QJrhGYHql92uCFdjneJdY/s1600-h/p90047072_highres.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380407716026024626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik7d4VHg5b2OQqQnD7MhirCeA-Ah8yvf-k3Px68dr3cteTefAft4-HMXxgY7EU5GR3xyZg9Ej4_GIW2OBQYXgMz5uFEL1YMgQxngTk3rtL97JNPBK0VpWHa3QJrhGYHql92uCFdjneJdY/s400/p90047072_highres.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" /></a> <a href="http://www.autoblog.com/gallery/mini-coupe-concept/#34">More Photos </a>

VIDEO: Second teaser for of Mini concept

The second video has arrived for the "2 B THRILLED" and "2 B DESIRED" Mini concepts that will show up in Frankfurt next ...

7:41 PM

Toyota's Tacoma Truck Concept

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPyfYLZGCJnJI-osprX_N9yPKOx6WYnoCe39DrO-F72UpPM6UOHTMJWW1JikZF3frITmkRQNUSA4-5mHhnmRuBZfp9FhUtZAWLV7u-DL6dtXw05v7yHOs59xt5VCEbt1jCkx3WHKLp-9U/s1600-h/bttftacoma000.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380405268510152450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPyfYLZGCJnJI-osprX_N9yPKOx6WYnoCe39DrO-F72UpPM6UOHTMJWW1JikZF3frITmkRQNUSA4-5mHhnmRuBZfp9FhUtZAWLV7u-DL6dtXw05v7yHOs59xt5VCEbt1jCkx3WHKLp-9U/s400/bttftacoma000.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 265px;" /></a> Toyota officially calls it the Tacoma Truck Concept but it’s more often referred to as the BTTF Truck, short for “Back to the Future,” because it recalls the classic 1985 Toyota pickup that Marty McFly drove away at the end of that movie. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga_0CddbAlh1ZrzG3vedeXYWhyphenhyphenxsYFc562GCr9CZ69R8RS8ZwntwL0Ttlq8x76MakFnri-0oresQLKfHJgBLU5rF6mr4utWAiTa6zR-XY9DEuM9OjNzMUy6q9QiCLrEOMA3sUmbIPjLNw/s1600-h/bttftacoma001.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380404052357877218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga_0CddbAlh1ZrzG3vedeXYWhyphenhyphenxsYFc562GCr9CZ69R8RS8ZwntwL0Ttlq8x76MakFnri-0oresQLKfHJgBLU5rF6mr4utWAiTa6zR-XY9DEuM9OjNzMUy6q9QiCLrEOMA3sUmbIPjLNw/s400/bttftacoma001.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 297px;" /></a> Toyota still lives off the goodwill its Reagan-era compact pickups generated. The 1984-88 Toyota Truck and its famed 2.4-liter four-cylinder 22R and 22RE engines have virtually untarnished reputations for reliability and durability, at an inexpensive price. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtfB7_r3j5ieXOQ6QewsvilkkDK97XBppmk-UrXCvCoYQM4FcC9rNT5IAo1zu9Vs2ZRyxLwF8CT_3jwL5jWGvCrNLI7hxf0FTn49efwOp6OC6n2IekYtH9NXUk6cFWPD4jI-xWxEGemPo/s1600-h/bttftacoma003.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380403606333839778" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtfB7_r3j5ieXOQ6QewsvilkkDK97XBppmk-UrXCvCoYQM4FcC9rNT5IAo1zu9Vs2ZRyxLwF8CT_3jwL5jWGvCrNLI7hxf0FTn49efwOp6OC6n2IekYtH9NXUk6cFWPD4jI-xWxEGemPo/s400/bttftacoma003.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 278px;" /></a> The BTTF’s inside is retro too. The brown and tan interior features seats with genuine 20-year-old Recaro cloth inserts. The surplus patterns were found in the corner of a Toyota warehouse. There’s also a floor-mounted manual transfer case (also drawn from a Land Cruiser) lever next to the transmission shifter to switch the truck from two-wheel drive to 4-high or 4-low, instead of a modern dash-mounted electric t-case knob. <a href="http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2009/09/toyota-tacoma-truck-concept-the-truck-toyota-should-bring-back-to-the-future.html">more detail</a>. ...

Toyota's Tacoma Truck Concept

Toyota officially calls it the Tacoma Truck Concept but it’s more often referred to as the BTTF Truck, short for “Back to the Future,” becau...

7:29 PM

Frankfurt Show: Lamborghini Reventon Roadster Photos unveiled

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnM2hq10q4J9_mCjZCVZjXk9cF5sj4_GI671DrF73xUYpaKqNW33d_4JyR1d2o6N4Ls0X73KbCZEH7-bkUq4H0QgvVZvzZubsHTzny8MY_eRU5svoxxw9MOceW7-ebLm5AVVneNTaX3PA/s1600-h/405053.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380039928129115810" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnM2hq10q4J9_mCjZCVZjXk9cF5sj4_GI671DrF73xUYpaKqNW33d_4JyR1d2o6N4Ls0X73KbCZEH7-bkUq4H0QgvVZvzZubsHTzny8MY_eRU5svoxxw9MOceW7-ebLm5AVVneNTaX3PA/s400/405053.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a> While details are limited, the roadster will likely be powered by a 6.5-liter V12 engine with 650 HP (478 kW) and 660 Nm (487 lb-ft) of torque. Backed up by a six-speed e-gear transmission and standard all-wheel drive, the Reventón will accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds. If you keep your foot planted, the roadster will top out somewhere in the neighborhood of 340 km/h (211 mph). <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg57noOAHKAOUOS6aR1wMDy6ZmsPhT8L2DoQArhNQT-vf2S23ga-cgzoz_RHfcyLp9UuanXlO8_Ze4a1lhGfn1sZZHhIRdgbLe5tdzgQiy1jJshG38c5GJFf6fR2z_ASNmyi0PTS5UHTW0/s1600-h/4345439.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380039881882355218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg57noOAHKAOUOS6aR1wMDy6ZmsPhT8L2DoQArhNQT-vf2S23ga-cgzoz_RHfcyLp9UuanXlO8_Ze4a1lhGfn1sZZHhIRdgbLe5tdzgQiy1jJshG38c5GJFf6fR2z_ASNmyi0PTS5UHTW0/s400/4345439.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a> Like the original Reventón coupe, which debuted in Frankfurt two years ago, the roadster redefines style, elegance, and insanity. Designed to be a stealth fighter for the road, the Reventón boasts jet-inspired carbon fiber body panels and aggressive 18-inch wheels. Inside, the roadster is decked out in alcantara upholstery and carbon fiber trim. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj68iAQsQm6HajOeE3qgRgKqtYKFomxxlsFMKhb5wTFmwjlzML6jurpbYv9ws_xYzGV6Ny9aCgOP6o54gpGNNKZI-B8EPeCgpWLi0F33QOgUP9HH8cttAsrczBUlhQbmQdaNKkXFIBdpAg/s1600-h/4193982.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380039820404167554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj68iAQsQm6HajOeE3qgRgKqtYKFomxxlsFMKhb5wTFmwjlzML6jurpbYv9ws_xYzGV6Ny9aCgOP6o54gpGNNKZI-B8EPeCgpWLi0F33QOgUP9HH8cttAsrczBUlhQbmQdaNKkXFIBdpAg/s400/4193982.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a> With Mercedes and McLaren battling for supercar supremacy at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the long-rumored Lamborghini Reventón Roadster had become a bit of an afterthought - until now. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6-IXmIz23mcHEIfnaWKCuYOUuF7m52fnvmIboVVTpORhxqDu615SL0PoGdUcnwavnLn63BSmzMdxvsH0nwDK-vk0p_RjuS8EMy2i4xT7iskGfhQdsAF2uW012YryPK7VePI72G4zD-e0/s1600-h/5220729.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380039754882294610" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6-IXmIz23mcHEIfnaWKCuYOUuF7m52fnvmIboVVTpORhxqDu615SL0PoGdUcnwavnLn63BSmzMdxvsH0nwDK-vk0p_RjuS8EMy2i4xT7iskGfhQdsAF2uW012YryPK7VePI72G4zD-e0/s400/5220729.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a> Production will likely be limited to 20 units and prices are expected to start at 1.2 million Euros ($1,750,000 USD). <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin63zyJeGh87HqSt6omDDBNCRbPtwXb1bAp7sgCu11HkkWsuHZny5rjoOR3cqxj4bnFHgBS0ATgWvWjh3ziAN1vBa4i_jPtiO446atbiingRLpxuSi-V4wGSCH_dYCPDcI5i_SJZhZGCs/s1600-h/4433018.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380039686974767426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin63zyJeGh87HqSt6omDDBNCRbPtwXb1bAp7sgCu11HkkWsuHZny5rjoOR3cqxj4bnFHgBS0ATgWvWjh3ziAN1vBa4i_jPtiO446atbiingRLpxuSi-V4wGSCH_dYCPDcI5i_SJZhZGCs/s400/4433018.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a> Source:<a href="http://www.worldcarfans.com/109091021625/lamborghini-reventon-roadster-photos-revealed">worldcarfans</a>

Frankfurt Show: Lamborghini Reventon Roadster Photos unveiled

While details are limited, the roadster will likely be powered by a 6.5-liter V12 engine with 650 HP (478 kW) and 660 Nm (487 lb-ft) of torq...

7:38 PM

Frankfurt preview: Citroen Revolte Concept

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3ElqjU2zPjTKb7ueiFrD33xRImtZaFUYRwq6-7hXnT4nWIzX51IOuHE4L54obZRhprUHDfG-_ZqxLUhLmT0yM0etHmT93lH9A4YoqYBU2aHXCy6pscCQIESmYI_w8wgYK4-3FE96ldWw/s1600-h/9978284.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379763600080250450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3ElqjU2zPjTKb7ueiFrD33xRImtZaFUYRwq6-7hXnT4nWIzX51IOuHE4L54obZRhprUHDfG-_ZqxLUhLmT0yM0etHmT93lH9A4YoqYBU2aHXCy6pscCQIESmYI_w8wgYK4-3FE96ldWw/s400/9978284.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a> Citroen is now increasingly looking like it will bring back the 2CV badge after these concept pictures were leaked. The original 2CV came into being in 1949 as a compact, economy car. Previous concept shots of this car, whose name is now officially revealed as the Revolte Concept, appeared on Facebook under the name Nouveau C3 and were later released as official teasers. Speculation began around what exactly it would be and eventually the 2CV was named as a strong possibility. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiiRi4G4oKDyRMmVEfnh1kGU_hxH2rmhVmnLM2ihF94ZhCzR9lIfVguAVr45-jjPtfV1yGo6PM3CjdN34GwqaNB_Ary7rrcs2erDR7dVm8PH_UyY0hPf5qIc1DNC6gJrDOgIMyNBCGSek/s1600-h/9224070.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379763114087154274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiiRi4G4oKDyRMmVEfnh1kGU_hxH2rmhVmnLM2ihF94ZhCzR9lIfVguAVr45-jjPtfV1yGo6PM3CjdN34GwqaNB_Ary7rrcs2erDR7dVm8PH_UyY0hPf5qIc1DNC6gJrDOgIMyNBCGSek/s400/9224070.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a> The rear window is integrated with the roof and the two blend like one piece of two-tone sheet metal. Tailpipes are not visible but where they would normally be are two air dams separated by what seems like an air diffuser. The interior is very sculptured and futuristic with seats that look like they were plucked out of a Klingon space ship. The front passenger seat actually faces backwards. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1eEKcuCwz9zPWeuDDiozqDTUlSG1Ykc2EPk-hFJr0mHofehhE1Fqhboat-dgqm1TzB5bo7cpqmBXzJ3ASd-ng0wONswYVqS8Fnd_owoFC3mFWSF3bGovhhHaIWhuZvDWpMuU3iQipVNY/s1600-h/4949292.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379763259535033618" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1eEKcuCwz9zPWeuDDiozqDTUlSG1Ykc2EPk-hFJr0mHofehhE1Fqhboat-dgqm1TzB5bo7cpqmBXzJ3ASd-ng0wONswYVqS8Fnd_owoFC3mFWSF3bGovhhHaIWhuZvDWpMuU3iQipVNY/s400/4949292.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a> The concept looks like a premium sporting hatch which could share some underpinnings with the Citroën DS3. Its front end features the company's updated grille, small headlights and a honeycomb lower face. As previously speculated there are four doors but the rear set are the rearward opening suicide types. When wide open or completely closed they reveal a flat C-like shape which is appropriate for the car. We don't know what size wheels are fitted yet but the tyres have the name Michelin on them. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiiRi4G4oKDyRMmVEfnh1kGU_hxH2rmhVmnLM2ihF94ZhCzR9lIfVguAVr45-jjPtfV1yGo6PM3CjdN34GwqaNB_Ary7rrcs2erDR7dVm8PH_UyY0hPf5qIc1DNC6gJrDOgIMyNBCGSek/s1600-h/9224070.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Hv5Fje_eFZPrXns1fqnjNafo7ssXassttjEpU36UtzncNeBIc7iuILZov090Ibh_uyKO22KeH-UvYzXTM6xR18bHUZhpSXQE3tXzW4HayaQorfgMQ-RYCl9g7Lu_FoYRLZfPkuvqxfI/s1600-h/738393.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379763361248049698" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Hv5Fje_eFZPrXns1fqnjNafo7ssXassttjEpU36UtzncNeBIc7iuILZov090Ibh_uyKO22KeH-UvYzXTM6xR18bHUZhpSXQE3tXzW4HayaQorfgMQ-RYCl9g7Lu_FoYRLZfPkuvqxfI/s400/738393.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" /></a> Citroën will surely unveil the Revolte at the Frankfurt Motor Show next week and hopefully share some more details about it. <a href="http://www.worldcarfans.com/109090921611/citroen-revolte-concept-breaks-cover/lowphotos#13">More Photos</a>

Frankfurt preview: Citroen Revolte Concept

Citroen is now increasingly looking like it will bring back the 2CV badge after these concept pictures were leaked. The original 2CV came in...

2:04 AM

Toyota at the 2009m Frankfurt Motor Show

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja0HEC4d4Y6nwDyBWReoqagjN2HDLfPwTkm2TGLG1B3862vaL0ONNdjhVPg-PX9RMoEJfJ23VUxnBRsbOSLGgSIWaw7VbC1QY97NvWmZvRFGwZSZwvyUYjLdd-18G9Yj4U05-0PRTNEiE/s1600-h/World-premiere-of-the-Toyota-Auris-HSD-Full-Hybrid-Concept-car-wallpapers.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376778518683465570" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja0HEC4d4Y6nwDyBWReoqagjN2HDLfPwTkm2TGLG1B3862vaL0ONNdjhVPg-PX9RMoEJfJ23VUxnBRsbOSLGgSIWaw7VbC1QY97NvWmZvRFGwZSZwvyUYjLdd-18G9Yj4U05-0PRTNEiE/s400/World-premiere-of-the-Toyota-Auris-HSD-Full-Hybrid-Concept-car-wallpapers.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 281px;" /></a> The Japanese brand has announced the premiere of the Toyota Auris HSD full hybrid concept at the IAA show in Frankfurt this month. The Toyota Auris HSD is the first introduction of the company's full hybrid technology to a mainstream model. * World Premiere of the Auris HSD Full Hybrid Concept * New Prius Plug-in Hybrid Concept, European Premiere of the new Land Cruiser * iQ show cars (iQ for Sports and iQ Collection) The first Toyota highlight for the Frankfurt Motor Show will be the World Premiere of the Auris HSD Full Hybrid Concept. This represents a milestone in Toyota's strategy: introducing Toyota's full hybrid technology to a mainstream model, and the first step in the deployment of Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD) across the company's model range. Frankfurt will also stage the European Premiere of the iconic, all-new Toyota Land Cruiser, which will go on sale in the 4th quarter of 2009. Finally, two customised iQ show cars (iQ for Sports and iQ Collection) will give a glimpse of a future ‘iQ World' and demonstrate the possibility for customers to personalise their cars. Source: Toyota

Toyota at the 2009m Frankfurt Motor Show

The Japanese brand has announced the premiere of the Toyota Auris HSD full hybrid concept at the IAA show in Frankfurt this month. The Toyot...

1:03 AM

Video: BMW Vision EfficienctDynamics Concept unveiled

<center><object height="290" width="400"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/CLGygbCr3sg"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/CLGygbCr3sg" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="290" width="400"></object></center> THE BMW VISION EFFICIENTDYNAMICS CONCEPT The latest BMW Concept Car for the EfficientDynamics philosophy. For decades, BMW has made the reduction of emissions and fuel consumption a key part of its product development strategy, just as enhancements to the dynamic ability of each BMW have been a lasting, sustained brand value. BMW's EfficientDynamics engineering philosophy - the pursuit of an enhanced, athletic driving experience while simultaneously lowering the consumption and emissions of each vehicle - resulted in the most dramatic drop in fleet consumption of any automaker from 1990 through 2005, according to an Environmental Defense study. Now, the BMW Vision concept car clearly demonstrates that the EfficientDynamics objectives are fully compatible when applied to a sports car. Conceived as a 2+2-seater with plug-in full-hybrid technology, this unique car combines the performance of a BMW M vehicle with a standard of fuel efficiency and emission management that exceeds even the current levels achieved by the latest small cars. This outstanding result is made possible by the combination of BMW ActiveHybrid components with an extremely economical combustion engine, and outstanding aerodynamic qualities. BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is the result of a "clean-sheet" development process to ensure that the correct achievements were made in the areas of efficiency, driving pleasure, technology, and emotional design. BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is the most comprehensive implementation of the EfficientDynamics philosophy seen so far. The powertrain provides a top speed limited electronically to 155 mph, with acceleration to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 3.76 liters/100 kilometers, equal to 62.6 mpg, and the CO2 emission rating is 99 grams per kilometer. CO2 emission management is even more outstanding when driving in the all-electric mode after charging the battery from a plug-in source: Taking all emissions in the generation of electricity into account, as prescribed by the EU formula, the car's emission rating is just 50 grams per kilometer. Through this unique balance of driving pleasure and fuel efficiency, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car clearly demonstrates the potential of BMW ActiveHybrid technology, which makes its world debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show in the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 and BMW ActiveHybrid 7 production models. The power and performance are made possible by combining a fuel-efficient 3-cylinder turbodiesel with one electric motor on each axle. The intelligent combination of these units, together with precisely controlled energy management, simultaneously enhances the dynamic performance and the efficiency of the car. Overall system output is 356 horsepower, and peak torque is 590 lb-ft. The special arrangement of the two motors and diesel engine allows all-wheel drive when driving in all-electric mode. The result is minimum power loss and a harmonious transmission of the power available under all conditions. In its design, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics for the first time conveys the dynamic look of a BMW sports car to a hybrid vehicle. Developed with decades of experience in Motorsport, the body of this unique sports car is a result of intelligent lightweight technology and aerodynamic efficiency. In the design of the interior, the focus was likewise on both the fascinating driving experience and, in particular, on transparent, hands-on technology and maximum reduction of weight. Turbodiesel engine with unprecedented specific output. The combustion engine is a cutting-edge turbodiesel featured for the first time in the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car. Displacing 1.5 liters on three cylinders, the engine consistently follows the downsizing principle of using a relatively small engine combined with a turbocharger to reduce fuel consumption. Through its compact dimensions, the 3-cylinder fits conveniently in front of the rear axle like in an agile mid-engine sports car, despite the two seats at the rear. Fuel is injected by the latest generation of High Precision Direct Injection, and the turbocharger features variable intake geometry for maximum efficiency. Engine output is 163 hp with peak torque of 214 lb-ft. The specific output of 109 hp per liter sets a new benchmark in diesel technology. The power delivered by the turbodiesel is conveyed to the rear axle by means of a double-clutch transmission (DCT). This advanced transmission technology, which already offers a particularly dynamic driving experience in BMW's M3 and Z4 Roadster, allows the driver to shift gears without the slightest interruption of power. BMW Vision EfficientDynamics features a newly-developed version of BMW's DCT with six speeds for maximum efficiency and flexibility. Two electric motors for full-hybrid drive. The combustion engine is supplemented by two electric motors. Consistently applying the BMW ActiveHybrid philosophy, development engineers followed the principle of "Best of Hybrid," choosing the optimum combination of a hybrid synchronous motor on the front axle and a full-hybrid system at the rear. In this concept, the driver benefits from the efficiency of the electric motors over a far wider speed range than with a conventional hybrid car. The rear axle comes with a second-generation full-hybrid system corresponding to the technology in the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 production model. The compact electric motor positioned between the diesel engine and the DCT outputs a consistent 33 horsepower and is able to reach a peak of up to 51 hp. Maximum torque for the rear electric motor is 214 lb-ft, the power, either supporting the diesel engine or in all-electric motoring. When coasting or applying the brakes, the electric motor acts as a generator and feeds electric power to the lithium-polymer battery in the car. The electric energy developed in this way is therefore captured without any additional consumption of fuel through the principle of Brake Energy Regeneration. Energy wasted on the brakes of a conventional car is thus saved within the new power system for subsequent use in driving the car. A second electric motor acts on the front axle. This engine, a hybrid synchronous motor, offers continuous output of 80 horsepower and peak torque of 162 lb-ft. Extra power of 112 horsepower is available for a period of up to 30 seconds, and, for a 10-second "burst," the electric motor is able to develop 139 horsepower. The power is transmitted through a 2-stage, single-speed reduction gearbox. BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is able to run completely under electric power, with the power of the turbodiesel engine alone, or through an infinite combination of the three power sources. Depending on driving conditions, the two electric motors may be used both for accelerating and for regenerating energy when applying the brakes and while coasting. This principle ensures efficient energy management, with the charge status of the lithium-polymer battery constantly remaining within the optimum range. When accelerating, the electric motors help to boost the car for even greater performance, ensuring immediate response and a significant reduction in fuel consumption. For a short time, such as in passing maneuvers, the cumulative maximum output of all three engines increases to 356 hp, with maximum torque generated by the three engines reaching 590 lb-ft. Lithium-polymer battery for electrical energy. The energy cells featured in BMW Vision EfficientDynamics are housed in a chassis element running from front to rear through the middle of the car. The front unit is the lithium-polymer complex, an ongoing development of the lithium-ion battery. Overall, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics comes with a total of 98 lithium-polymer cells, each offering a capacity of 30 amp/hours and developing continuous output of 600 Amps at a voltage of 3.7 V. For a period of 30 seconds, each cell is even able to develop maximum output of 1,200 Amps. Serial arrangement of the lithium-polymer cells serves to generate nominal voltage of 364 volts, the gross storage capacity of the battery is 10.8 kW/h. With an unusually high discharge capacity of 80 percent, the battery delivers 8.6 kW/h for driving the car. This superior performance comes on overall weight of the entire energy storage system of just 187 lb. A further advantage is that through their optimum dimensions tailored to the specific qualities and features of the car, the lithium-polymer cells, together with the operating strategy chosen with a concept of "forward looking" energy management, reduces the thermal load acting on the battery to such an extent that there is no need for active cooling. Plug-in solution: convenient charging of the electric power system from a conventional power socket. Brake Energy Regeneration captures electric power generated while driving without additional fuel consumption, which is subsequently used to supply power to the electric motors and on-board network. A further option is to connect the lithium-polymer cells to a conventional power socket for a simple and efficient charge process, using a plug-in connector in the front-right wing of the car. Connected to a standard EU power outlet (220 V, 16 Amps), the system requires a maximum of 2 ½ hours to fully charge the lithium-polymer cells. And wherever a power source with higher voltage and amperage (380 V, 32 Amps) is available, the charge time is an even shorter 44 minutes. In addition to electrical energy storage, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics comes with a conventional fuel tank at the rear end of the central chassis tunnel, offering a capacity of 6.6 gallons. Running on diesel fuel alone, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is able to cover a distance of approximately 400 miles with its combustion engine. Benefitting from an extra range of up to 31 miles in the all-electric mode, the car offers an overall range of approximately 431 miles. As a result, this unique concept car offers all the requirements for using energy with maximum efficiency and at the same time experiencing the dynamic performance typical of BMW without any restriction of everyday driving qualities. Performance, fuel efficiency and emission management opening new dimensions in hybrid technology. The power delivered by the two electric motors and single diesel 3-cylinder engine gives the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept a level of performance superior to anything provided so far by a hybrid vehicle. Acceleration from a standstill to 100 km/h, for example, comes in just 4.8 seconds and the car could exceed its electronically-limited 155 mph top speed. At the same time fuel efficiency and emission management now reach a standard only achieved, if at all, by far less powerful small cars conceived for city traffic and short distances. Applying the criteria of the EU test cycle, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics offers average fuel consumption equal to 62.6 mpg. CO2 emissions, in turn, are 99 grams per kilometer. These consumption and emission figures are measured on a consistent internal power balance, meaning that the batteries and storage media for electrical energy maintain the same charge level throughout the entire test cycle (with the same level at the beginning and end) and are charged while driving only by the car's on-board systems. As a plug-in hybrid, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is able to cover the entire drive cycle for measuring fuel consumption also with its combustion engine completely switched off. Then, to subsequently charge the lithium-polymer cells to the same status as when setting off, all the driver has to do is connect the car to an external power grid. To determine the consumption of electric power, the only requirement is to compare the charge level of the battery before and after the test cycle. Applying this measurement process, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car consumes 17.5 kW/h per 100 kilometers, equal to a CO2 emission rating of just 50 grams per kilometer in the EU test cycle. To determine the total volume of CO2 emissions when driving in the all-electric mode, new legal standards for measuring the level of fuel consumption are currently being prepared for hybrid and electric cars with a plug-in power supply. Applying this calculation method, the CO2 emission ratings generated by BMW Vision EfficientDynamics are reduced further to just one-third of the original figure of 99 grams per kilometer. Clearly, this significant reduction of emissions opens up a new dimension in BMW's EfficientDynamics development strategy in this unique concept car. Aerodynamic qualities reflecting BMW's Motorsport experience. BMW Vision EfficientDynamics also takes a new approach in its design and streamlining, the body and the interior clearly expressing the unique combination of supreme efficiency and the sporting performance of the brand. Following BMW's design language, this concept car visualizes both highly efficient aerodynamics and intelligent lightweight construction. In its design, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics differs from the usual low-emission car concepts. The principle of "form follows function" is not just for the overall look of the car, but embraces each and every detail. Measuring 48.8" in height and boasting a sweeping, arch-like roofline, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics offers the slender silhouette of a classic Gran Turismo. With the combustion engine fitted in front of the rear axle, the designers have succeeded in giving the car a very low front end, with the flow of air being further smoothened by active louvers in front of the radiator, which close completely when the need for cooling air is low. This efficient function follows in the footsteps of the active air flap control already used as a feature of BMW EfficientDynamics in some of BMW's current production models. As a further highlight, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics guides air smoothly and exactly as required into the car through an active air intake at the front. Numerous details in the design of the body are based on the know-how BMW has gained in Motorsport, a number of body elements serving as air deflectors and guide vanes. Designed as ducts, for example, the A-pillars serve to channel the flow of air in the same way as the rear lights with their wing profile. The floor of the car is fully covered from front to rear and from one side to the other, thus maintaining a smooth surface to avoid any air swirl liable to increase fuel consumption. Slender openings around the front air dam guide the air flowing specifically into two closed ducts leading inside the front air dam to the wheel arches where the air comes out again through a very slim aperture at high speed, flowing just next to the outer wheel flanks. This air jet rests on the front wheels like a curtain and is therefore referred to most appropriately as the "air curtain." It provides a highly stabilizing effect. Overall vehicle concept for a drag coefficient of just 0.22. To further optimize the aerodynamic qualities of the entire vehicle and keep rolling resistance to a minimum, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics comes with tires and wheels of quite unusual size on a sports car. The tires measure 195/55, while large 21-inch wheels provide a contact surface on the road otherwise offered only by a much wider tire. In combination with the sophisticated axle geometry, this ensures agile driving behavior. The extra-large wheel covers extending over part of the tire flanks add to the unique, very different look of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics from the side. The blade profile integrated in the wheels serves furthermore to reduce the negative effect of the turning wheels on the overall aerodynamics of the car. In all, these features optimizing the aerodynamic qualities of the car give the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car a very low drag factor (CX) of just 0.22. Technological look as a strong impression of intelligent lightweight construction. In both exterior and interior design, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics stands out clearly as a strong spearhead in technology. Many components of the vehicle are presented in full view expressing the "transparent" character of the car as a powerful visual feature of lightweight technology. The chassis and suspension of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics are made completely of aluminum; the roof and the outer skin on the doors are made almost completely of a special polycarbonate glass automatically darkening as a function of the light shining on the car. Measuring 181.1" in length, 74.8" in width and 48.8" in height, this unique concept car offers ample space for up to four passengers and their luggage. Thanks to the consistent lightweight construction strategy applied on the car, curb weight is 3,076 lb, with the center of gravity remaining very low. In its power-to-weight ratio, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car is far superior to all other hybrid cars, achieving the same standard as extremely dynamic sports cars with a conventional combustion engine. Carrying a maximum payload of 981 lb, this unique 2+2-seater is fully suited for everyday traffic. Luggage capacity of 5.3 cu ft, in turn, allows the driver and passengers to conveniently take along two golf bags. And to meet additional loading requirements the backrests of the two rear seats may be tilted down individually to provide extra storage space. Emotional design through sculptural shapes and layering technology. Reflecting the innovative drive concept of this unique car, the design of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics likewise takes a new approach in combining functional progress with a most powerful emotional impact. This has been achieved through the close cooperation of BMW's Design and Technical Development Divisions starting at an early point and continuing consistently throughout the entire development process. The result is a brand-new vehicle architecture with the drive components as well as the body and interior elements perfectly coordinated and matched to one another with maximum flexibility and individual style. A fully integrated design philosophy also provided new options in using harmonized design principles connecting the exterior and the interior and providing an interacting effect between the two areas. Sculptural design language giving BMW Vision EfficientDynamics a fully harmonized, complete look ensures the proportions typical of a BMW sports car. The front, side, rear and roof areas, for example, flow smoothly into one another. Dynamically contoured surfaces and shapes, in turn, create highly attractive light and shade effects accentuating the light and sporting character of the car in an emotional manner. Layering technology developed by the BMW Group Design Division acts as the fundamental guideline in designing the exterior and interior. Applied for the first time in exterior design, this technology layers one surface on top of the other, creating very smooth seams and joints to reduce the number of components and, accordingly, the weight of the car. As a result, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics meets the most demanding aerodynamic requirements without using any additional body elements, simply through the structure of the surfaces optimized for a smooth flow of air. Interior: innovative lightweight construction and unprecedented orientation to the driver. In the design of the interior, innovative layering technology provides an unprecedented symbiosis of function and stylish shapes intentionally reduced to a minimum, consistently implementing and visualizing the lightweight principle also inside the car. Specific components such as the central air vent not only serving to enhance motoring comfort but also acting as part of the cockpit, perform several functions in one. This multi-functionality is then presented visibly within the car, the use of particularly sophisticated materials providing a highly attractive combination of innovation in technology and quality clear to the eye and the touch of the surface. This interaction of lightweight construction and individual well-being also comes out clearly in the design of the controls and switches, with a leather band, for example, running round the aluminum gear selector lever on the center console. Materials combining lightweight technology and all the qualities required are also to be admired all round the cockpit of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics, giving the car an unusually generous feeling of space for a 2+2-seater. The body-contoured seats, for example, are made up of a kevlar shell, a backbone structure, and seat padding with personalized fillings. Clearly, this combination alone ensures comfort at a minimum weight. The driver's and front passenger's seats are connected firmly to the center console to form a joint interior "landscape", while the rear seats anchored on the floor would appear to be hovering in space. Natural materials and light colors on the seat upholstery and all interior linings underline the light, sophisticated and sustainability-oriented atmosphere within the passenger compartment. The instrument panel is deliberately padded only where technical components have to be appropriately covered, thus making an important contribution to passenger safety in the event of a collision. The instrument cluster played a fundamental role right from the start in the design process, serving as the starting point for all surfaces within the interior and thus creating a particularly powerful rendition of that driver orientation typical of BMW. Innovative light technology: providing clear signals to the outside and offering soothing ambient illumination inside in a unique symbiosis. LED lights at both the front and rear end of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics provide an innovative combination of the symbols typical of the brand and clear design language oriented towards trendsetting technology. The distinctive look of the dual round headlights characteristic of a BMW is emphasized in particular by the use of LED technology. The rear lights are integrated also in their function into the design of the entire rear section, forming part of the rear air deflector and thus merging completely into the rear contour. Extremely flat and compact, the rear lights are made up of innovative LED units forming a smooth and consistent red surface when not in use. Only when used do the respective light chambers take on the appropriate color such as yellow on the direction indicators. This innovative light technology also provides an intense symbiosis of the exterior and interior, again promoting and further refining the driving experience. This is also why the ambient illumination of the interior comes with new features and qualities, the light sources within the passenger compartment being fed from the positioning lights at the side, the rear lights and the brake lights, thus changing the atmosphere created by the lights within the car as a function of driving conditions. The optical impression conveyed by BMW Vision EfficientDynamics also results in other areas from the symbiosis of the exterior and interior, eliminating the conventional barriers between the two. The lines within the interior, for example, continue on to the innovative design of the engine compartment lid, while in its shape the third brake light positioned higher up on the car follows the structure of the glass roof and tapers to the outside where the roofline moves down gently to the rear. Overhead doors for convenient access to all seats. The doors on BMW Vision EfficientDynamics open up like bird's wings, turning on pivots in the front roof column at the level of the side direction indicators. Since the car has no B-pillars, the large door cutouts ensure convenient entry also to the rear seats. The pivots on the doors also provide the base for the exterior mirrors, thus forming an ideal combination of function and aesthetic design. The structure of the doors is also characterized by several layers of materials on top of one another and the optical and functional symbiosis of the interior and exterior this technology is able to offer. Made up of three layers, the overall structure comprises the outer glass surface, an interim load-bearing layer, and the interior cover with its particularly smooth shapes and fl owing forms clearly visible to the passengers, layering technology again, therefore, opening up new perspectives. The large glass surfaces extending far down on the body also provide a strong optical impression of the low seating position close to the road. And at the same time a stable sidebar ensures the body stiffness and crash safety naturally required on every vehicle. Flowing to the inside at its central point, this safety element also serves as an armrest. This interplay of the three layers also helping to minimize the weight of the car continues on the trim bar running along the door and extending out of the armrest, finally flowing into the outer door opener on its path from inside to outside. Clear focus on the essential: 3-dimensional Head-Up Display. Layering technology is also used on the displays in the instrument cluster and in the Head-Up Display developed to an even higher standard on BMW's new concept car. The Display now creates a powerful impression of three dimensions, at the same time providing the option to present various signals more in the front or more in the background, depending on their relevance and current driving conditions. The Head-Up Display projects information important to the driver on to the windscreen. Indeed, innovative presentation technology even allows the superimposed presentation of several views in three dimensions, keeping, the gauge graphics visible in the background while the latest information on route guidance or warning signals from BMW Night Vision, for example, are shown in the foreground. The sequence in which such signals appear depends on the driving mode chosen by the driver, the display technology, again depending on the driver's personal preference, enhancing a particularly sporting, a more comfort oriented, or an efficiency-based style of motoring. Through its design alone, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car clearly shows that highly efficient individual mobility may by all means be presented in emotional style. BMW already offers models in all vehicle segments which, compared with the competition, ensure the lowest level of fuel consumption and emissions combined with superior power and performance. And now BMW Vision EfficientDynamics confirms BMW's commitment to offer a perfect combination in future of unique driving pleasure and optimum qualities in the responsible use of natural resources. In the design process the need for sustainable management is borne out most clearly by the GINA (Geometry and Functions in N-fold Augmentation) concept developed by the BMW Group. In this case maximum creative freedom sets the foundation for innovative solutions challenging the conventional and meeting the requirements of the future. This makes the GINA principle particularly well-suited for developing visions for the future reflecting both the wish for emotional style and individual character as well as the quest for sustainable management and efficiency. From the dimensions of its wheels through the design of the rear lights and all the way to the configuration of the cockpit, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics therefore boasts a number of details both outside and inside which, going far beyond conventional solutions, open up a new approach to maximum efficiency and that Dynamic ability typical of BMW. Forward-looking energy management adjusting to individual requirements. With the individual system components on board BMW Vision EfficientDynamics being networked with one another, conditions are perfect for implementing a forward-looking system of energy management using information gathered by the sensors of the driver assistance units fitted in the car. Data provided, for example, by the rain sensor or Active Cruise Control with its Stop & Go function as well as by the navigation system, and subsequently evaluated by the central control unit, offers an overview of current and upcoming driving conditions. Then, evaluating such data, the on-board computer is able to forecast driving conditions on the stretch of road immediately ahead, such calculations serving to prepare the car for upcoming requirements and make efficient use of the energy available through optimum operation of all systems. Should the high-performance central computer establish, for example, that the driver is about to take the motorway, the power used for running the cooling system is reduced for a certain period in advance, on the assumption that the short increase in coolant temperature resulting from such an energy-saving measure will quickly be set off by the higher speed of the car on the motorway. Another example of such pre-conditioning is the regeneration of energy from the air conditioning, from Electronic Power Steering and the Brake Assistant.

Video: BMW Vision EfficienctDynamics Concept unveiled

THE BMW VISION EFFICIENTDYNAMICS CONCEPT The latest BMW Concept Car for the EfficientDynamics philosophy. For decades, BMW has made the redu...

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