Car reviews:Handsome black BMW 650i Platinum Motorsport

Not much time has passed since the release of BMW 650i, when most fans of the brand have been fascinated by gig, both in terms of both design and in terms of technical features. Body new items at least 50% stronger than its predecessor, and manage folding roof can be at 40 km / h.

But even more interesting suggestion looks like version of the studio PlatinumMotorsport, which added to the BMW 650i 22-inch wheels and an aerodynamic package AC Schnitzer.

Only the wheels are a unique product, made in black with red trim, clad in high-performance tires.

With regard to a set of AC Schnitzer, it includes new front cover, side skirts, rear bumper and rear spoiler, it is impossible not to mention the upgraded exhaust system. Convertible body is painted in a specially selected black

Car reviews:Spied : MINI Countryman Cooper S Diesel 2011 has the same label SD

A few months ago appeared the first batch of spy photos MINI Cooper S Diesel, and now, as it were to happen, caught MINI Countryman Cooper S Diesel.

On the body MINI Countryman Cooper S Diesel 2011 has the same label «SD», as in his congregation, which may indicate that some features of the models will be identical.

But seen spy photo prototype is not a sport version, since it is not noticeable presence of the double twin exhaust pipes at the center of the body novelties.

Under the hood of this option is certainly available 1.6-liter diesel engine with capacity of around 140 hp (104 kW), which eventually will become the top of the range of diesel units. Perhaps for the same power, the company’s engineers have also added a new option and sports suspension.

Car reviews:Purple and matt Lamborghini Murcielago LP670-SV

It has already become officially known that serial production LamborghiniMurcielago discontinued, and now more news appears about who will succeed this supercar.

However, enthusiasts do not disregard Murcielago, giving it various incarnations, for example, as in this case, the coloring of his body in a dull purple and install the new light-alloy wheels.

The new colors and patterns for Lamborghini Murcielago line appeared in a new light, charm supercar give “smoked” window.

The report also says that it is not yet final, as preparing a custom hood, which will be supplemented by air intakes.

2010 Hyundai Sonata: High End Luxury, Low End Price

2010 marks 25 years of production of the Hyundai Sonata, and it seems that now the automaker is really starting to hit it’s niche in the automobile market. Previously considered as a low end, economy vehicle manufacturer, Hyundai has stepped up the quality of their vehicles significantly in the last few years.

The vehicle’s exterior is relatively plain, with slightly angled headlights up front and available 17″ wheels providing the only real styling queues to the vehicle. It’s look is easily compared to previous generations of Toyotas and Hondas.

The real showstopper for the 2010 Hyundai Sonata is the interior. At the high end, the wood grain and leather interior is reminiscent of vehicles in the forty to fifty thousand dollar range. The console is clean, with available in-dash navigation providing a cockpit view one might expect out of a BMW or Acura. And priced at only $26,550, that makes the Sonata a great choice for customers looking for a posh grocery-getter.

The 2010 Hyundai Sonata comes loaded with standard features that other automakers charge extra for. Anti-lock four wheel disc brakes with ABS and electronic brake management are standard. Cruise control, traction control, stability control, and power, heated mirrors – all standard.

Engine choices are a 2.4L 4 cylinder producing a very average 175 hp at 6000 rpm, or a 3.3L V6 producing a heftier 249 hp at 6000 rpm. Both engines are mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission. The 4 cylinder nets 21 mpg in town and 32 mpg on the highway while the V6 is slightly less at 19/29 mpg.

For the worst-case scenario the Sonata is equipped with dual-stage front-seat airbags, side impact airbags, and full side-curtain airbags.

The 2010 Hyundai Sonata is backed by a 10 year, 100000 mile power train warranty, and 5 year, 60,000 mile bumper to bumper coverage. That’s some of the best coverage in the industry.

2013 Mercedes C Class Diesel

Europeans love diesel cars and Mercedes wants Americans to love them too. They are going to push yet again their diesel car – 2013 Mercedes C Class Diesel. Mercedes is planning to put diesel in the American market with it GLK Class compact crossover. GLK220 CDI and GLK250 CDI cars famous in European market will also be there in US soon.

The diesel E320 Bluetec sedan is another diesel car for US E-Class lineup.

Mercedes lovers would be much relieved with the diesel coupe as a replacement for their oil burning C class car.

2011 Tahoe Redesign

Chevrolet Tahoe one of the large SUV is not being redesigned since 2007. 2011 Tahoe Redesign will not be very big. No major changes are going to come in the new 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe. The only big change in the 2011 new design would be integrated trailer brake controller with optional trail ring package.

The strong V8 engine and the tough four-wheel drive of Tahoe is enough for people who love its smooth handling with the toughness of the truck. There are very few vehicles in the market right not which gives a flexibility of big-truck capability and a comfortable ride. It could go well on city roads, hills or snow. Other vehicles which fall in the same category are Toyota Sequoia and Ford Expedition.

LS, LT and LTZ are the 3 trims in which 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe would be available. The prices for this vehicle will not be very different from $34,670 to $54,000 for LTZ trim.

There might not be much difference in the fuel economy which is 15 mpg city and 21 mpg highway.

Car safety features will also be same as in 2010 model i.e. antilock brakes, front airbags, OnStar emergency telematics, and Stability control and side airbags.

2011 Chevrolet Tahoe would be coming with 5.3-liter V8 engine that would generate 320 horsepower and 335 pound-feet of torque. Six-speed automatic transmission is the power source for rear wheels in 2WD and all 4 wheels in 4WD.

2010 Nissan Qashqai

The Nissan Qashqai has been a big seller in Europe for several years now and the new European model, due to be released in March of 2010, is expected to continue that tradition of high sales. The 2010 Nissan Qashqai has been completely redesigned from its predecessors, including adding LED tail lights, new instrumental panels inside, new colors, better soundproofing and storage additions to the vehicle.

The Pure Drive model of the 2010 Nissan Qashqai is also a great option for those who are concerned about the environment. With an increased fuel efficiency and fuel economy, Nissan has been able to reduce the emissions of the 2010 Nissan Qashqai to only 129 grams per kilometer of CO2.

Inside the vehicle there is a new computer that is positioned between the two dials on the center console. The LCD screen in the car shows the fuel consumption, mileage, time and speed, which gives the driver of the 2010 Nissan Qashqai a better view of what is going on with the vehicle. The vehicle has also been designed with a warmer ambience inside the vehicle.

Many are calling the 2010 Nissan Qashqai the most environmentally efficient mid-sized non-hybrid car in Europe thanks to its amazingly low emissions. To achieve the amazing fuel efficiency, the vehicle has been designed with aerodynamic wheel covers, as well as carrying less weight and low-rolling resistant tires.

Europe and Japan have been leading the way in creating environmentally-friendly cars that are affordable and powerful enough for even the biggest speed demon out there. While the United States’ car companies are just starting to catch up, Nissan has been releasing excellent cars like the 2010 Nissan Qashqai for several years now. Don’t be surprised if this vehicle makes its way over to the United States soon, which is growing hungrier for fuel efficient cars.

2010 Audi A4 Outdoes Its Predecessors

Audi is one of the leading car companies on Earth and it is not hard to see why with cars like the 2010 Audi A4 1.8 Turbo Wagon. This vehicle, which is part of the A4 series that has been winning car awards since it was introduced in 1994, continues the level of excellence that you would expect from a leading car company like Audi.

The Audi A4 1.8 Turbo Wagon contains a turbo-charged four-cylinder engine that allows for front and all-wheel drive. It has 211 horsepower along with six-speed manual and automatic transmission. Since Audi is a European car company, it is no surprise that the 2010 Audi A4 comes with some excellent fuel economy, the likes of which the United States car companies are just beginning to catch up on. Currently, the Audi A4 1.8 Turbo Wagon has a fuel efficiency of 20 miles per gallon in the city and 30 miles per gallon on the highway.

In addition to being fuel efficient and therefore good for the environment, it is also incredibly safe to drive. The National Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash tested the vehicle and both gave it the highest safety rating possible. Why is the vehicle so safe? Well, the 2010 Audi A4 contains standard airbags, traction control, stability control, a rear-view camera as well as blind-spot and lane departure warning systems. The 2010 Audi A4 has adaptive cruise control. In addition, the visibility in the Audi A4 1.8 Turbo Wagon is excellent, meaning that you don’t have to worry about hitting someone when you are backing out of a parking lot spot.

Two downsides to the vehicle are the fact that the Audi dual-clutch gearbox is not offered in the Turbo Wagon model, which many consider to be Audi’s best transmission system. As well, the backseats sit a bit low.

Those are some pretty minor cons against a vehicle that is considered the safest to drive, while at the same time being good for the environment.

It is no surprise that Audi is a leader in the world when you look at the 2010 Audi A4 1.8 Turbo Wagon. Safety, efficiency and good looks are blended together in a vehicle that anyone will feel proud to drive.

Mercedes CLS Design

The second-generation Mercedes CLS four-door coupe marks a shift away from the subtle elegance of its predecessor and heralds a heavy-handed, almost Baroque aesthetic, which appears to be spreading throughout the manufacturer's portfolio.

The DRG is dominated by the now familiar, upright grille – complete with three-pointed star – flanked by more horizontally-aligned lamps by virtue of their brutally angular LED running light bars. These increase visual width, but bear little relation to the cluster outline.

However, the most obvious change is in side profile. The taut shoulder line – which previously sprang from the front wheel, swiftly making its arc to the rear tail lamp – has made way for a feature line that now apexes above the front wheel and makes heavy contact with the pronounced rear fender flare. The intersection of elements lacks true elegance, not helped by the oddly forward positioning of the rear door handle, which all conspire to cramp the rear door's style.

To round off the general lackluster of the exterior, the short rear deck appears to droop heavily over its wheels, rather than being under tension, a fact exacerbated by the rear lamp cluster graphics.

The interior is an improvement over the model it replaces and again benefits from being of a bespoke design, rather than borrowed from the E-class. The IP is more driver-focused, with deep-set dials and wrap-around door cards.

The optional carbon-fiber trim is highly dubious, especially when juxtaposed with the analogue clock that now nestles between the face-level air vents.

The result is considered by many observers as a retrograde step, not only for its lack of subtlety, but by aligning itself too closely to the E-class sedan and coupe to have its own distinct identity. The first CLS created this segment and its replacement was always going to be a challenge to design. That this second generation fails to do anything new conceptually is perhaps of little surprise. It is the quality of the execution that is so disappointing.

Peugeot HR1 concept

The response to Peugeot's B-Segment SUV concept among the designers we spoke to was generally positive. It projects a pleasingly voluminous, sophisticated air, safely laying to rest the design histrionics of the Welter era and building on the new design identity established by the SR1 at the Geneva Show.

We particularly liked the development of the theme that sees ingot-like components puncturing surfaces to reappear elsewhere – here, most intriguingly as the headlamps push down behind the hood surface into the grille aperture. Theme as dogma, however, causes the detail resolution to come undone as components like roof-rails tend to be over-designed.

The recursive lines linking the tail lamp to the shoulder and door surfaces is well resolved, more so than on the SR1, but – again – the decision to carry the theme down to a micro level, particularly around the headlamp recesses, results in some oddly pinched, remarkably fussy surfaces.

As an aside, we must admit that Peugeot's decision to put a blow of black paint over the lower half of the car is a cheap trick for disguising the considerable heft of the bodyside under controlled lighting. It fades to silver above and we wonder, should the car make it to the road, whether a more production-feasible approach would be quite so effective?

Billed as a 2+2, the way that the rear seats slide forward to 'hug' those in the front – increasing load space – is an elegantly resolved solution, while the contrast between black and burgundy leathers helps to define a pleasingly spare, architectural space, punctuated by the gloss black of the gesture-controlled HMI systems.

Despite Peugeot's insistence that the car is a unique combination of city car, coupe and SUV, it's hard not to see it as slightly panicked response to the runaway success of the minute, the Nissan Juke. That's not to suggest that the car isn't without merit, but there are a number of details that feel rushed and, consequently, let it down.

Renault Twizy Design

Renault offered two surprises today at Paris Show: a revised version of the Zoë concept and the production version of the electric Twizy, both originally shown at last year's IAA show. Many people wondered if Renault could translate the Twizy 1+1 electric tandem into a credible production vehicle, but the result seen here today appears very successful.

The biggest change is the use of four 13-inch conventional wheels with 145-section tires rather than enclosed wheels, but the rest of the design manages to retain the essence of the concept theme. The other big area of design change is the front face, where the pixelled information screen has been replaced with a miniature version of the new Laurens van den Acker Renault face, with the lozenge logo sitting in a black recess, surmounted by a pair of simple round lamps.

Happily, the rotating doorbars are retained, with the only modification being the addition a Plexiglass panel in the lower area to provide some protection from puddles, although the upper area remains totally open except for a small fixed wind deflector section at the front. There's no window at the rear but instead a highly-visible oblong slot housing the red taillamps, as on the concept, with the direction indicators mounted lower down in the blue-gray chassis area, as at the front.

The three cars shown were still prototype models with mock-up interior parts but it was clear to see the elliptical IP and minimalist instrumentation. While the driver gets a proper seat and seatbelt, the rear passenger gets a more rudimentary seat pad with a surprisingly low seating position behind the driver.

Finally, a big part of the Twizy marketing will focus on the various graphic treatments available. The three examples were finished in graphic schemes entitled Dot Dot, Circuit and Totem, with a further nine liveries shown on the surrounding displays. The Twizy will go on sale late next year.

Porsche's LA Show Debut will be the Cayman R Lightweight Special

We just learned that the new mid-engined sports model that Porsche announced for the LA Auto Show will be the Cayman R. Think of it as a more hardcore version of the Cayman S (pictured above) that has shed a few pounds here and there, and comes equipped with a mildly tuned version of the flat-six engine.

According to our sources, the Cayman R also benefits from upgraded suspension and brake components as well as the necessary aero kit, bespoke lightweight alloy wheels and interior modifications. We'll bring you the full story and pictures on the Cayman R from the LA Show that kicks off tomorrow.

Report: Honda to kill Civic Nameplate in Japan

According to media reports, Honda's Civic will cease Japanese sales as soon as the current inventory is gone. This decision is said to be the result of increased demand for minivans and smaller cars, but that doesn't mean the Civic is going anywhere for you and me. Honda will continue to sell the entry-level compact, which is set to be replaced next year, in international markets where demand is still strong.

Honda's Civic has barely been able to stay afloat sales-wise in its domestic market, moving a scant 452 units in October. For now, Civics will continue to be built at Honda's plant in Suzuka, but that could end if the JDM demands more sexy Honda minivans and Kei cars.

At least the JDM Civic is going out with a bang thanks to those 1,500 examples of the Type-R Euro models.

Two Shall Enter, One Shall Leave: Geely and Volvo disagree on Volvo's Future

Li Shufu, president of current Volvo owner, China's Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co., appears to be having some issues with Volvo executives regarding the brand's future plans. According to Auto News Europe, there are two major issues: 1) the types of cars Volvo wants to build, and 2) brand marketing.

Mr. Li thinks Volvo should build larger cars for the Chinese market and go after the premium segment with BMW/Mercedes competitors. Volvo higher-ups, on the other hand, want smaller, more efficient cars that may not necessarily appeal to premium buyers. Li says he's willing to bend a little if the managers running Volvo won't, because "they have brought Volvo to where it is today...They must have good reasons."

Mr. Li hopes to build two new manufacturing plants in China in order to push the brand as a luxury option and meet potential future demand.

How to work with Alias in Car Design

Dear friends,

today we will talk about digital virtual modeling in car design. To be more precise we will focus on why it is important for a designer to manage digital modeling and how a designer should do it.
In a few words what type of attitude we should have (as designers) in front of an Alias workstation (computer) or a Rhino 3D one. There are many other softwares, but to explane myself I just named some of the most popular in the business today.

First of all why do we have to learn about digital modeling?
The answear is simple, since few years ( at least 10) the car design business and the automotive business understood that with the help of some softwares they could reduce drasticly their time process from idea to production. This is possible thanks to those softwares that give us the opportunity to model in virtual 3D the model we used to do in 1:1 scale in a longer time.
Today we can transfer a 2D car sketch into an Alias Autodesk program and...keep on reading clicking: How to work with Alias!

Harry Bradley car design teacher in ACCD Pasadena

Harry Bradley has been my teacher at Art Center College of Design in Pasadena (here one of his famous drawings) and I decided to tell you about him a bit because he has been for me probably the best teacher I ever had.
Since I often write about drawings, perspective, shading, creativity, skills... I think I have to tell you about Harry.
First of all he was kind of crazy guy with a good humor, but most important he really knew how to teach drawing cars. He would sketch with and for us wih his dark and light graphite old pencils (the yeallow ones remember?), he would take a white paper and start sketching in perfect perspective up side down! Got the point?

Mercedes Benz SLS AMG concept sketches

The Mercedes Benz SLS AMG concept sketches. A clear new design language and brand image, the sketches are preatty good with nice details and body sections.
Seen on.

Design management in car design

Forte Design Processu

Dear friends,
the automotive design processus is something complicated believe me. From sketches to production there are almost 4 years of activities, brainstorming - ideas selections - sketching evolutions - early presentations to select ideas -product planning meetings - marketing - first architecture product plans - virtual reality step - model making - master models - technical meetings - suppliers meetings - follow up parts - prototyping - modifications and up dates follow up - at so on untill production!

Now this is a summarized description of an Automotive industrial car design processus, if we go in detail only on Design activities from sketches to final design freeze we have to integrate a parallel processus made specially for all design activities to develop a car design for production. BMW, Ford, Volvo, General Motors, Renault, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Honda, Toyota, Samsung and many others every car company has its own processus. They all very similar specially in Design, some more focused on manual activities (older methodology and more time consuming), some others focused more on virtual reality (faster and more modern method).

to the visitors...

Hello to you all!

A quick thing for the blog just to scratch the tablet......

>>>>>>>> In the meantime....dear visitors. According to Google analytics this blog has been viewed about 2200 times for the past 3 weeks with smth like 650 unique visitors, coming from 60 countries around the world. I believe some of the visitors are fans, some others professionals as some students too. I wonder why you people are so shy! Most of you just seem to look at the blog but hardly comment anything about the drawings or the design stuff posted here...
I encourage the colleagues and all the visitors in general to show themselves and feel free to express their opinion on the things posted here! I'll be most grateful!

Rendering Tutorials

I decided to put together some of the tutorials I did so far. Couple of days ago I noticed that one of them is again featured in carbodydesign.com Something I didn't expect but It was nice to see it up there. The actual tutorial was done for Allan McDonald for his website www.designertechniques.com. He asked me to explain in few steps how I apply the light to the whole image....Here is the link to the tutorial...

In case you're interested in some more tutorials by me. Here are two more:




I hope the tutorials are in good use to all the people interested. I will be most happy if they are...

Maserati

Update!

Here is a small initial sketch...update on the maserati V12 thing..I know, it's even more brutal and dramatic than the one bellow, but am still keen on developing this concpet into the direction alrady said....so let's see what comes up with this. Will post more soon

I couldn't help myself of making another sketch.....it seems to me that will turn into a personal project for my portfolio - Maserati sports car. At the moment this one is "too cultivated & shy" i'll look into some more aggressive & expressive in the next sketches...will post soon when I've got smth to show on the topic...one thing for sure, it's gonna be mid-engined V12.

2011 Volkswagen Tiguan at Beijing 2010

Curtains has been raised over 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan in Beijing. The new model i.e refreshed Tiguan is just in production for a little over two years and is getting a facelift. The new car is going to hit the roads this fall when the 2011 models arrive.

The new look for Volkswagen Tiguan is going to give the car a wider appearance with its new corporate horizontal bar grille. The car is also going to have new bumpers and a pedestrian friendly reshaped bonnet. Other then these cosmetic changes not much has changed for the car. The other models which got similar type of treatment are Mk VI Golf and next generation Touareg SUV.

The pricing for 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan might remain consistent.

2014 Range Rover – Range Rover Sport

Mark III Range Rover was launched in US somewhere around 2002 in the month of June. US got the car a bit late and this model of Range Rover debuted in UK much earlier. Mark IV for Range Rover is most likely to be launched in 2013 as 2014 Range Rover model. If it gets delayed further then 2014 then there would be a gap of more then 13 years between the two models. This is much big model life for a perticular car.

New Range Rover Sport is espected even later i.e somewhere in 2015/2016. I think the whole development of Range Rover is freezed but they should give some facelifts to the current model if not a new one altogether.

Toyota Yaris, 2010

Toyota Yaris, 2010

Toyota Yaris was first launched in 1999, with an all-new, second generation model introduced in 2005 and further refinements added in 2009, the Yaris is Toyota's best selling model in Europe, positioned at the heart of this highly competitive segment.

As reflected in its consistently strong performance in the European J.D. Power Customer Satisfaction survey, an ever-increasing number of customers have come to appreciate the Toyota Yaris' ingenious packaging, class-leading passenger room coefficient, comfort and versatility, advanced technology and performance. In total, over 2.2 million units have been sold across Europe since its launch, and the Toyota Yaris represents a quarter of Toyota's annual car sales on the continent.

Toyota Optimal Drive technology was introduced across the entire engine range. This has significantly lowered both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, with appreciable cost of ownership benefits to customers. All engines - 1.0 litre VVT-i, 1.33 litre Dual VVT-i and 1.4 litre D-4D - now generate 120 g/km or less, with fuel consumption averaging below 5 l/100 km.

Toyota Yaris 2010 introduces a new grade into a revised, streamlined model line-up which sees all engine variants available in every grade. Bringing added visual appeal to the heart of the model range, Toyota Yaris 2010 features numerous exterior styling updates, a refreshed interior and an upgraded standard equipment specification.

New feature model: Toyota Yaris 2010

Toyota Yaris 2010 is a new grade at the heart of the model line-up, replacing the outgoing feature model. The revised model line-up now comprises four specification levels: Base, Luna, new Toyota Yaris 2010 and Sol.

Designed to refresh the model's advanced, innovative image, and add further visual appeal to Toyota's popular B segment hatchback, Toyota Yaris 2010 benefits from several exterior updates.

It now features a more expressive, tinted headlamp cluster design, newly developed matt silver door handles, a new modern wheel cap design as well as new alloy wheels, a new rear light colour treatment and two new, grade-exclusive exterior colours; Light Purple Silver and Blue metallic.

On board, the Toyota Yaris 2010 standard equipment specification has been enhanced to include analogue instrument dials, a perforated leather steering wheel and gearshift knob, and a distinctive upholstery trim.

With automatic air-conditioning and front foglights also incorporated in the standard equipment specification, theToyota Yaris 2010 offers a customer benefit of up to 5%.

Toyota Optimal Drive
A choice of three powerplants - 1.0 litre VVT-i and 1.33 litre Dual VVT-i petrol units and a 1.4 litre D-4D - is now across the entire Toyota Yaris model range. Every engine benefits from the performance - and economy-enhancing benefits of Toyota Optimal Drive and, from July, will comply with Euro V emissions standards. As a result, all three engines generate under 120 g/km, with model range fuel consumption averaging below 5 l/100 km. Moreover,Toyota Yaris whole-fleet CO2 emissions will be reduced from 130.8 g/km in 2008, to 117.4 g/km in 2010.

Designed to maximise performance and driving enjoyment while minimising fuel consumption and CO2 emissions,Toyota Optimal Drive focuses on several key aspects of powertrain development such as lightweight, compact design, enhanced combustion efficiency, low friction components and environmentally friendly technologies.

Petrol engine combustion efficiency has been improved through the use of a high efficiency intake port, a high compression ratio and long reach spark plugs. The 1.4 litre D-4D benefits from the adoption of a lower compression ratio, optimised combustion chamber dimensions, enhanced Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler efficiency and a stainless steel exhaust manifold with an optional, closecoupled Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).

Environmental technologies are represented by the application of Dual VVT-i and Stop & Start technology to the 1.33 litre Dual VVT-i petrol unit, while the 1.4 litre D-4D engine is equipped with next generation Piezo injectors, variable nozzle turbocharging, a de-coupling generator and new, electrical Exhaust Gas Recirculation.

Honda Accord Crosstour, 2010

Honda Accord Crosstour, 2010

The Honda Accord Crosstour evolves the Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV) concept by integrating a sleek and aerodynamic shape that blends sporty, low-profile contours with versatile CUV functionality.

The concept is to broaden the appeal of the Honda Accord line-up by leveraging traditional Accord strengths of fun-to-drive performance and handling while also adapting to dramatic shifts in the light truck. The Honda Accord Crosstour accomplishes that by offering a modern interpretation of a CUV while integrating the refinement and efficiency of a premium sedan."

Derived from the Accord Sedan, the Honda Accord Crosstour maximizes car-like ride and refinement, yet maintains capabilities consistent with a CUV's increased ride height and all-weather potential. The Honda Accord Crosstour's styling builds on the Accord's familiar character lines and adds a bolder front grille complemented by a durable lower-body appearance, wedge-shaped C-pillars and an aggressive rear stance. The flowing roofline narrows smoothly into the rear of the vehicle to create an aggressive-looking design, which conceals a unique cargo area that can adapt to large objects that exceed the capacity of a sedan.

Nissan NV200, 2010

Nissan NV200, 2010

The designed from the outset as both a commercial and a passenger vehicle, the Nissan NV200 brings new levels of space, comfort and practicality to the small van market.

Maximised cargo area
Nissan NV200 uses innovative packaging ideas to create the largest and most practical cargo area in its class. Although a little under 4.4m in overall length, the van version of the Nissan NV200 has a load bay that's more than 2m long (2040mm).

With front-wheel drive and the adoption of a highly compact rear suspension system, the Nissan NV200 can house two standard Euro pallets in the cargo area at a time. At 1.84m high NV200 is no taller than its rivals, while at 520mm from ground level, the floor itself is the lowest in the class to ease loading, helping to boost the cargo volume to 4.1m3. Maximum payload is 771kg.

A spacious interior
A large cargo area is a vital attribute for a van, of course, but the generous interior dimensions of Nissan NV200also translate into ample passenger space in the Combi version.

Unlike some other manufacturers that fit removable seats - which are invariably heavy to lift and need to be stored elsewhere when not in use - the seats in the Combi stay with the vehicle at all times. The middle row backrest has a 60/40 split to increase versatility and the entire assembly tumbles forward to fold flat against the front seats, while the rear pair fold individually to either side of the load area.
Throughout the creation of Nissan NV200, attention has been paid to ensuring the highest levels of quality with shut lines and panel gaps in line with the expectations of passenger car buyers.

While the van optionally is available with a side window it, differs from the passenger versions at the rear where it has twin side hinged "French" doors. Both seven-seaters have a fully glazed top hinged tailgate - though the Combi will be with French doors - while the windows on both side doors have a sliding section for extra ventilation.

Road car platform
Built on a modified version of Nissan's B Platform, NV200has fully independent strut type front suspension mounted on a separate subframe and a compact and lightweight yet robust wide leaf spring rear axle.
The performance comes from a choice of two engines, one petrol and one diesel.
The petrol version will be powered by Nissan's renowned all aluminium 1.6-litre HR16 engine, as found in Micra, Note and Qashqai. Displacing 1,598cc, the 16-valve unit develops 79kW (108PS) and 153Nm of torque and is mated to a five-speed manual transmission.

The diesel, found on Note and Micra, is Alliance partner Renault's acclaimed 8-valve 1.5 dCi (K9K) 1,461cc engine. Developing 200 Nm of torque and 63kW (86PS), it offers an ideal blend of performance, refinement and fuel economy. Power is transmitted through a five-speed gearbox.
To create more space in the cockpit, the gearlever extends not from the floor but from the two-tone wrap around centre console. Above the gearlever, the centre section houses the heating and ventilation controls and the double DIN radio slot. Heating and ventilation extends to all three rows of seats.

Well equipped
The Nissan NV200 with rear view parking camera, a first for a van in this segment, while the cabin is full of storage spaces, pockets and cup/bottle holders. There is a secret storage space large enough to hide camera, mobile phones or vital documents within the upper portion of the glove box.

Joining the parking camera, other car-like items of standard or optional equipment include features such as Nissan'sIntelligent Key, power windows and ESP. Safety equipment includes anti-lock brakes with brake assist (BA) and electronic brake force distribution (EBD) as standard. Driver and passenger airbags are also standard with side bags available as an option.

Low cost of ownership
Cost of ownership is projected to be among the lowest in the class thanks in part to the low running costs and high efficiency of the engines and drive trains, but also thanks to the safety structure which helps to minimise crash damage to vulnerable under bonnet parts such as the radiator.

2011 Ferrari 599 GTO

2011 Ferrari 599 GTO

2011 Ferrari 599 GTO


2011 Ferrari 599 GTO

NEW HONDA SPORTS CAR – FC SPORT DESIGN

HONDA designer Jason Wilbur and his team from Advanced Design Studio of Honda R&D Americas in Pasadena, California, have developed this futuristic FC Sport design study seen at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Powered by existing fuel cell technology, the FC Sport is a three-seater sports car with a low centre of gravity, zero emissions and a potent, clean electric motor. It’s FCX Clarity meets NSX. Clever design ensured low weight and high-performance, with FC Sport maintaining a balanced weight distribution between front and rear, ideal for any serious sports car.

HONDA SPORTS CAR – FC SPORT DESIGN – HONDA HYDROGEN-POWERED

Configuration of the fuel cell stack is such that it is located between the two rear seats that flank driver’s position, while a battery pack sits low in the middle of the car. Electric motor is just ahead of the rear axle and the two fuel storage tanks just above it. The layout guarantees optimal weight distribution, a good passenger cabin (for a sports car) and an interior that focuses a lot on the center-placed driver.

“The Honda FC Sport explores how to satisfy automotive performance enthusiasts in a world beyond petroleum,” said Dan Bonawitz, vice president of American Honda Motor Co. “People who love sports cars will still have a reason to love in a hydrogen-powered future.”

The Honda FC Sport Design Study is hydrogen-powered three seat sports car. It uses the V-Flow fuel cell stack and electric drivetrain from the recently introduced FCX Clarity. The fuel-cell stack is located between the rear seats and the electric motor is mounted just forward of the rear axle. Inside the driver sits in the middle of the car, while the two rear passengers sit directly behind the driver on the left and right side of the vehicle. The doors also open upward from the rear.

While the drivetrain is mounted low in the vehicle, the vehicle’s hydrogen tanks are visible through the rear deck glass as a way to showcase the car’s fuel-cell pedigree.

The driver sits in a racecar-like center position with the passengers flanking the driver to the rear. The car’s sleek body sweeps rearward and tapers into a geometric hex form, which houses the fuel cell’s coolers. At the front, Formula 1-style barge boards enhance high speed stability and provide a visual link to Honda’s Grand Prix efforts.