Showing posts with label Concept Cars.... Show all posts
Showing posts with label Concept Cars.... Show all posts
Thursday, December 10, 2015
Subaru embarks on STI push with NY performance concept
TOKYO -- Subaru took the wraps off its STI Performance Concept today at the New York auto show, previewing the brand’s expanding focus on tuner parts and performance editions.
The concept, based loosely on the body of the Subaru BRZ sporty coupe, encapsulates both Subaru Tecnica International’s parts and motorsports activities.
On the parts side, the car is decked out in STI carbon-fiber aerodynamic components including a rear spoiler. It also gets STI-tuned chassis, body and air intake-exhaust systems.
Under the hood, it showcases the engine Subaru deploys in Japan’s Super GT racing circuit: a horizontally opposed 2.0-liter, four-cylinder, double-overhead-camshaft, 16-valve turbocharged unit, generating 345 hp. Even though the concept is a turbo, Subaru says it has no plans for a turbo BRZ production model.
Infiniti revealed Vision GranTurismo
Infiniti, the luxury vehicle division of the Japanese carmaker Nissan, has revealed its new concept supercar – the Infiniti Concept Vision GranTurismo. The car has been designed exclusively for the Playstation 3 racing game Gran Turismo 6 (GT6) as part of the year-long commemoration of the video game’s franchise’s 15th anniversary.
The visually-striking concept is being billed by the carmaker as not just a design exercise, but a vision of what a high performance Infiniti could look like in future. This model was born from the theme put forward by Infiniti’s design team in Beijing.
The Infiniti Concept Vision GranTurismo receives a prominent grille which merges neatly with the sleek headlamps. The virtual car sports an aggressive front bumper, a steep roofline, raked windscreen and narrow windows.
key features include small wing mirrors and a sweeping line that runs from the front arches to the rear. The rear, on the other hand, features slim tail lamps and a single tail pipe that juts out from the centre of the rear diffuser.
The Infiniti Concept Vision GranTurismo receives some unique elements such as a 45:55 front/rear weight distribution, an under-flow airflow control, front and back diffusers and uniquely shaped rear spoiler, which the company claims, enables this car to demonstrate high performance without compromising the impact of the body design.
The supercar is already available for download on GranTurismo 6 exclusively on the PlayStation 3 system.
key features include small wing mirrors and a sweeping line that runs from the front arches to the rear. The rear, on the other hand, features slim tail lamps and a single tail pipe that juts out from the centre of the rear diffuser.
The supercar is already available for download on GranTurismo 6 exclusively on the PlayStation 3 system.
Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Pirelli Edition
Lamborghini has announced production of an exclusive new special series, the Aventador LP 700-4 Pirelli Edition, created to celebrate the long and ongoing history of collaboration with prestigious Italian tire manufacturer Pirelli.
The partnership began back in 1963, the year the House of the Raging Bull was established, and since then all Lamborghini cars have been equipped with Pirelli tires. The two firms share not only their Italian origins but also, and above all, a constant quest for technological innovation.
source-internet.
The partnership began back in 1963, the year the House of the Raging Bull was established, and since then all Lamborghini cars have been equipped with Pirelli tires. The two firms share not only their Italian origins but also, and above all, a constant quest for technological innovation.
source-internet.
Apple Electric Car Could Be Launched By 2020
Since Google is offering smart phones and developing driver-less car technology, we’re not surprised that the technology giant Apple, is also getting into the business of cars. The news about tech-giant Apple planning its debut electric car came in the open when The Wall Street Journal published news on the ‘Project Titan’. The report revealed that hundreds of Apple employees are working on the company’s new electric car project.
In fact, Bloomberg went on to report that Apple has been recruiting several automobile experts over the last few months, hiring from companies like Tesla, Ford and GM among others. Another report in the international media further endorsed Apple’s rumoured electric car project and reported that the company is being sued by electric car battery maker A123 Systems for “poaching” its top engineers to allegedly work for Apple’s new battery division.
It is said that Apple is pushing its engineers to get the Apple iCar Project Titan ready for production by 2020. While most traditional car makers spend at least 4-5 years developing its concept and making it ready for production model, Apple seems aggressive with its plans to be ready with its debut car project in the same time frame.
Apple is stepping on to unfamiliar territory with the Project Titan. It has to be ready to react to the international norms on safety and electric vehicles and be in tune with the change which may vary from one country to another.
Going by Apple’s past decisions, the company is expected not to tread the usual part. It never did in the mobile phone of computer industry, and surely won’t when it ventures in to something complete new like the car industry. We feel that the California- based company will look at offering a unique proposition; if at all their iCar project becomes a reality. Apple could well be looking at coming up with a driver-less self-driving technology which Google has been attempting to perfect over the years.
It is said that Apple is pushing its engineers to get the Apple iCar Project Titan ready for production by 2020. While most traditional car makers spend at least 4-5 years developing its concept and making it ready for production model, Apple seems aggressive with its plans to be ready with its debut car project in the same time frame.
Going by Apple’s past decisions, the company is expected not to tread the usual part. It never did in the mobile phone of computer industry, and surely won’t when it ventures in to something complete new like the car industry. We feel that the California- based company will look at offering a unique proposition; if at all their iCar project becomes a reality. Apple could well be looking at coming up with a driver-less self-driving technology which Google has been attempting to perfect over the years.
Nissan plans to launch IDx concept
Nissan is officially under the microscope after their presentations at the 2015 Detroit Auto Show focused on the new Titan pickup and Q60 Concept, but lacked any and all mention of allegedly production-bound examples of the Q50 Eau Rouge, IDx and BladeGlider EV concepts.
The lack of info on the three concept cars, which had previously heralded a more performance-minded Nissan has signaled a shift in priorities at the Japanese company. Instead of driver-oriented models, emphasis is seemingly being focused more on volume offerings.
Nissan was subject to a pair of high-level executive departures last year, with both Andy Palmer and Johan de Nysschen departing for Aston Martin and Cadillac, respectively. Both execs were strong proponents of more driver-oriented offerings, with Palmer championing the compact, rear-drive IDx coupe and de Nysschen backing the high-performance Q50 Eau Rouge.
The lack of info on the three concept cars, which had previously heralded a more performance-minded Nissan has signaled a shift in priorities at the Japanese company. Instead of driver-oriented models, emphasis is seemingly being focused more on volume offerings.
Nissan was subject to a pair of high-level executive departures last year, with both Andy Palmer and Johan de Nysschen departing for Aston Martin and Cadillac, respectively. Both execs were strong proponents of more driver-oriented offerings, with Palmer championing the compact, rear-drive IDx coupe and de Nysschen backing the high-performance Q50 Eau Rouge.
Mercedes pickup will be built by Nissan, report says
Nissan would build the Daimler-designed pickup based on Navara architecture with Daimler providing technology including four- and six-cylinder powertrains, the Wall Street Journal reported, quoting two people familiar with the situation..
The report said talks between the two automakers on the project were at an advanced stage, but quoted a source as saying that the details are “still being worked out.”
On Friday, Daimler announced plans to launch a midsize pickup truck before 2020 targeted at the European, Latin American, Australian and South African markets. The pickup will be developed and designed by the Mercedes-Benz Vans division, the company said. Daimler said no decision has been made about whether to launch the vehicle in the U.S.
Daimler has an industrial partnership with the Renault-Nissan alliance that includes cooperation on engines, joint development of the Smart ForTwo and Renault Twingo minicars and for Nissan to supply Daimler's Japanese commercial vehicles unit, Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corp., with Nissan's NV350 transporter van.
Suzuki iK-2 and iM-4 compact SUV concept unveil ahead of Geneva Motor show
The Suzuki iK-2 premium hatchback pre-production concept and iM-4 compact SUV design study will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show 2015 early next month. The duo have been teased ahead through dark silhouette images.
A short glace of the iK-2 Concept’s teaser image is more than enough to know that it indeed previews the Maruti YRA (Hyndai Elite i20 rival) premium hatchback which was already spied without any camouflage. With a body length and profile in a territory between a regular hatchback and an estate, the iK-2 concepts attempts to strike a balance between compactness and practicality.
It’s reported that the YRA will debut a new 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine while inheriting the 1.3-litre diesel motor from the Swift. More details on the technology and powertrain are expected to surface at the world premiere.
While the iK-2 is a production ready concept, the iM-4 is a design study. The concept previews a compact 4×4 SUV which is designed under the theme ‘Shape the Inspiration’. The fresh design proposal from Suzuki is compact, has a bold stance, flared wheel arches and a humongous C-pillar.
The company says that the vehicle is packed with new technologies and distinctive design that will give inspiration to the drivers. The size suggests that the design study could potentially lead to creation of the aging Suzuki Jimny’s (closely related to Maruti Gypsy) replacement.
It’s reported that the YRA will debut a new 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine while inheriting the 1.3-litre diesel motor from the Swift. More details on the technology and powertrain are expected to surface at the world premiere.
While the iK-2 is a production ready concept, the iM-4 is a design study. The concept previews a compact 4×4 SUV which is designed under the theme ‘Shape the Inspiration’. The fresh design proposal from Suzuki is compact, has a bold stance, flared wheel arches and a humongous C-pillar.
The company says that the vehicle is packed with new technologies and distinctive design that will give inspiration to the drivers. The size suggests that the design study could potentially lead to creation of the aging Suzuki Jimny’s (closely related to Maruti Gypsy) replacement.
Mitsubishi teases new SUV concept for Geneva
The Japanese carmaker has released a teaser image of its new SUV concept which will premiere at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show.
The Japanese car maker promises that the unnamed concept is a 'declaration of intent' for the company's future.
The company has stated that the all-new concept is a smart combination of engineering, fluency with a high-output electric motor, low environmental impact, dynamic agility and athletic design.
Mitsubishi is still coy on the specifics of its upcoming concept, but states that the model previews the next generation 2WD plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) technology and a ‘bold design renaissance’.
Not much is known about the concept at this stage, but reports suggest that the Japanese carmaker is preparing an updated version of the Concept XR-PHEV, revealed during the Tokyo Motor Show in November 2013.
The Japanese car maker promises that the unnamed concept is a 'declaration of intent' for the company's future.
The company has stated that the all-new concept is a smart combination of engineering, fluency with a high-output electric motor, low environmental impact, dynamic agility and athletic design.
Mitsubishi is still coy on the specifics of its upcoming concept, but states that the model previews the next generation 2WD plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) technology and a ‘bold design renaissance’.
Not much is known about the concept at this stage, but reports suggest that the Japanese carmaker is preparing an updated version of the Concept XR-PHEV, revealed during the Tokyo Motor Show in November 2013.
Chevy Bolt concept to get 200-plus EV range, cost $30,000
At Auto-show at Detroit With the introduction of an affordable electric car that can go 200 miles on a single charge, GM sets up a showdown with Tesla head-on and showcasing the very first 3D-printed vehicle.
GM touted the new Bolt as built with crossover aesthetics in mind, as well as lightweight materials such as aluminum, magnesium, and carbon fiber. Owners can also use their smart-phone as keys to the car – which features a 10-inch touchscreen inside and the Bolt will be capable of self-parking.
Mini Clubman Vision Gran Turismo unveiled
The car also features fully adjustable dampers and an aggressive aerodynamic package, which includes splitters, big air inlets, flared wheel arches, flat underbody and a double rear spoiler. At the rear, the double doors of the Clubman Vision Gran Turismo are given clear emphasis. The lower section features air ducts and ducting surfaces in carbon. Mini has said that the aerodynamic package isn't only for show, it is functional too.
BMW 3.0 CSL Hommage R concept breaks cover
BMW has revealed a racing variant of its 3.0 CSL Hommage concept car. To make its debut at the Pebble Beach Concours D'elegance, is almost identical to the concept unveiled at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in May, and gets BMW’s racing colour scheme.
New improvements include a race suit that can display information to the driver. The driver’s helmet too displays speed and engine information, while a special piping in the sleeves illuminates when both the driver’s hands are on the wheel. The minimalist steering wheel display provides the driver with information on the current track and race position. Other racing additions to the interior include a fire extinguisher system and an emergency shut-off.
While BMW insists the concept is a one-off creation with no production future, sister publication, Autocar UK understands that the concept does still hold some significance for BMW’s future production models. Senior sources have revealed that the concept is a statement of intent for the BMW M division to build more extreme, lightweight models, which would be pitched as the company's answer to its great rival, the Mercedes-AMG’s Black Series versions. The first model built to this strategy will be the M4 GTS.
The 3.0 CSL Hommage is the third Hommage car from BMW in recent years, following on from the M1 Hommage from 2008 and the 328 Hommage, which celebrated the 75th anniversary of the 328 racer in 2011. Like the 3.0 CSL Hommage, both the previous Hommage concepts were revealed at Villa d’Este.
The latest concept car is marginally bigger than an M6. It is 4,997mm long, 2,018mm wide and 1,302mm high, with a wheelbase of 3,190mm. For comparison, the M6 is 4,898mm long, 1,899mm wide and 1,374mm high, with a wheelbase of 2,851mm.
BMW hasn’t confirmed the technical details of the car, other than the fact that it is rear-wheel drive and below the long bonnet is a 3.0-litre straight-six petrol engine in combination with an ‘e-boost’ electric motor to aid acceleration.
The 3.0 CSL concept car is constructed from an extensive use of lightweight materials, including carbon-fibre reinforced plastic. The original 3.0 CSL was around 200kg lighter than the 3.0 CS on which it was based thanks to an extensive use of aluminium in its construction.
The body of the new concept car features vast flared wheel arches with extensive aerodynamic sculpting to channel the air towards the rear of the car. The wheel arches house 21-inch alloys shod in 265/35 tyres in front and 325/30s at the rear. Other notable exterior design features include the extensive air intakes, the large fixed rear wing, a roof spoiler, a front splitter and huge side exhausts.
The interior of the original concept was pared down and made almost exclusively of carbon-fibre reinforced plastic, save for some wood on the instrument panel, which was also a structural part. This wood was a reference to the interior of the original 3.0 CSL. Key driver information, such as the speed, revs and gear selection, could be shown on a display on the steering column.
BMW design chief Karim Habib said, “For BMW designers like us, the BMW 3.0 CSL is a style icon. Its combination of racing genes and elegance generates an engaging aesthetic that continues to win hearts even today. The BMW 3.0 CSL Hommage celebrates many of those characteristic features but without copying them. Indeed, some of the parallels are not immediately obvious. We wanted people to sense the family resemblance rather than see it straight off.”
Wednesday, December 9, 2015
Nissan Sway showcases future design language @ Geneva 2015
Over the past few years, after successfully taking the Juke and the Qashqai from paper to the road, Nissan now seems to have shifted its focus on the more competitive hatchback segment. Unveiled at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, the Sway is a closer look at the Japanese car makers design language for all compact hatchbacks.
At the front there is the large v-shaped grille, those sleek looking LED headlights and massive air vents in the front bumper that give it a mean aggressive stance. But the most eye-catching design element of the Sway is its silhouette right from the top of the c-pillar, to the floating roof line and up to the front bumper. Drawing attention from the front to the back are the sharp creases on the side profile. As is common in most concept cars, the Sway too doesn't have a B-pillar and comes fitted with suicide doors.
The interiors seems roomy thanks to a large panoramic sun roof and a windshield that continues longer into the roof increasing the overall glass area. The instrument cluster is simple and there is also a tablet in the centre for more information.
But the question is why this concept is important? Nissan would expect it to work the kind of magic that they had managed to pull off when the Almera was going downwards on the sales charts. Currently, despite being quite a practical car, the Micra too is gradually heading towards a similar fate. So if history is anything to go by, this might just be our first glimpse of what the new Micra might look like.
At the front there is the large v-shaped grille, those sleek looking LED headlights and massive air vents in the front bumper that give it a mean aggressive stance. But the most eye-catching design element of the Sway is its silhouette right from the top of the c-pillar, to the floating roof line and up to the front bumper. Drawing attention from the front to the back are the sharp creases on the side profile. As is common in most concept cars, the Sway too doesn't have a B-pillar and comes fitted with suicide doors.
The interiors seems roomy thanks to a large panoramic sun roof and a windshield that continues longer into the roof increasing the overall glass area. The instrument cluster is simple and there is also a tablet in the centre for more information.
But the question is why this concept is important? Nissan would expect it to work the kind of magic that they had managed to pull off when the Almera was going downwards on the sales charts. Currently, despite being quite a practical car, the Micra too is gradually heading towards a similar fate. So if history is anything to go by, this might just be our first glimpse of what the new Micra might look like.
Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe concept revealed
Mercedes has unveiled the conceptual version of the GLC Coupe. The concept previews the production GLC Coupe which is expected to be revealed sometime later this year. It is expected to retain much of the styling as well as the dimensions and mechanicals from the concept when it goes into production internationally, in 2017.
The GLC Coupe is 4.7-metres long, 2-metres wide and 1.6-metres tall making it larger and lower than the X4. The GLC Coupe is also larger and lower than the outgoing GLK-class.
The GLC Coupe sits on a modified version of Mercedes’ modular MRA platform featuring heavy use of high-strength steel as in the C-class, along with the use of aluminium in the suspension.
Under the hood, the GLC Coupe concept is powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol motor generating 362bhp and 52.95kgm of torque. The engine is expected to feature in the GLC 450 Coupe AMG, a model that will bridge the gap between the standard GLC Coupe and the full-spec AMG model. Power will be sent to all four wheels through Mercedes’ 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic gearbox and the company’s 4Matic four-wheel drive system.
In a clear hint Mercedes officials have said that they intend to have a line-up of seven SUVs in the future including the likes of the GLA, GLC, GLC Coupe, GLE, GLE Coupe, GLS and the G-class, expected to be updated in 2017.
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