In a world that continuously asks for more power, Honda decides to instead pull its brakes and launch its new MSX125. With a not so well-defined identity, this new Honda straddles the position of being a motorcycle or a scooter reaching a wider range of two-wheel aficionados.
Since we all know that remembering ‘MSX125’ would have been an extremely hard work, Honda came up with a fancy name for its brand new pearl – Grom. This means thunderclap in Polish, and who knows in how many other Slavic languages, but it is also shortening for ‘grommet’ that stands for a young surfer ripping the waves. So, a Honda Grom lover could be also a surf devotee. Or not.
Down to a more technical level, the Grom is powered by a 124.9 cc air-cooled four-stroke with programmed fuel injection that generates 10hp (7.5 kW) at 7,000 rpm and peak torque of 8 ft-lb (10.8 Nm) at 5500 rpm. The engine is nearly square (52.4 mm bore and 57.9 mm stroke), which provides a superior balance between top-end power and mid-range throttle response. The power reaches the rear wheel via a four-speed manual transmission, which is controlled in the same way as larger bikes.
Its maximum speed is about 104 - 112 km/h on a flat road, which makes it not appropriate for freeways and highways, unless you are feeling tremendously brave and reckless. Its likely environment appears to be mostly the city and suburban neighbourhoods.
Honda’s designers undoubtedly took inspiration from the iconic CT70 to give the Grom a groovy and cool attitude. This bike is like a black canvas, ready to be customized. It is a stylish and fun piece to show off to your friends and make them craving for a mind-blowing ride.
The Grom seems to fit the expectations of both expert riders and beginners, and seems even to fit the gap for the 20-something who wants to experience the feel to ride a bike at a fair price. The 125cc motorcycle seems to hold enough sway to delight the mannish man, while not trespassing the boundaries of high-end, high insurance, high consuming motor bikes. Starting at only $3,000, you can ride your Grom on Easy Street. You just need to sit back and relax, indeed August is upon us.
]]>
The name of this concept car is already capable to unveil its nature, The Lamborghini Egoista (“selfish” in English) is indeed all about pleasing the driver from both an aesthetic and performance point of view.
The car is created to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Lamborghini and designed by Walter De Silva. The Egoista features a single-seat cabin and the inspiration for the interior comes from Apache helicopters, which can eject the cockpit in case of emergency.
The cockpit, which comes in bright orange, is completely customized for the driver, it can be removed from the rest of the car and it is completed with a head-up display. In addition to this, Lamborghini provide a variety of marker lights, like the ones used on aircraft, on the exterior to further develop the aviation inspired design.
The car is all around the driver and a 600-horsepower comes from a modified 5.2-liter V-10 engine. The Egoista doesn’t feature a door, the driver needs, in fact, to climb over the bodywork to get to the opening roof and get inside. Lamborghini also provided the car with active aerodynamic aids, including a variety of flaps that open and close accordingly to the driving conditions.
]]>
Mercedes-Benz, in collaboration with the AGM factory, announced the coming of an out-and-out new ''war car'': their new off-road vehicle, better known as the ''G63 AMG 6X6''.
The new road monster, elaborated from the basic frame of the indestructible Geländewagen, is endowed with almost disconcerting technical properties . An AMG Power V8 biturbo of 544 horsepower motor , 6x6 drive, seven speed gearbox, three sets of portal axles, five differential locks and huge 37 inch tires.
An unstoppable car, for which the desert downs becomes comfortable as normal paves and able to ford one meter.As its technical capacity, even its dimensions are megalithic: almost 6 meters of length, more of 2 meters for height and width, with a total weight of about 4 tonnes and a capability of loading up even 650 kgs. In spite of its impressive bulk, the G63 is able to reach 0-100 km/h in less than 6 seconds, but the full speed is of 160 km/h, electronically self-adjusting.
Nowadays it has been presented as a showcar, but a limited edition production of about 20/30 pieces a year is foreseen by the car company.
Though this one-of-a-kind car is a perfect example of technical know-how, even from a stylistic point of view its ''performances'' don't leave much to be desired.
Indeed behind its outside firmness there isn't a Spartan cabin, not nearly: its interiors are marked by the known Mercedes' attention to luxury. Endowed with sumptuous Design leather padding and high-quality materials, and full-optionals, are all hand-assembled with extreme care. Even the cargo bed of this exclusive pick-up has been bamboo coated and endowed with a steel roll-bar.
]]>
Warsaw-based designers Gustaw Lange and Aleksander Lange, of design firm Lange&Lange are leading the innovation in rescue snowmobiles all over Poland. Due to the increasing demand for a machine that can blend functionality, robustness and maneuverability, the designers have created a stylish prototype for a snowmobile which goes above and beyond the basic requirements. It was initially intended for volunteer rescue teams in Cracow, but it is gradually emerging as the go-to alternative.
The snowmobile is an exquisite manifestation of the fusion between design and practicality, as it makes use of all available space in an ingenious way and ensures quality of transportation for the severely injured. However, the designers make no compromise in terms of appearance and give the traditional snowmobile a futuristic, up-dated look with smooth lines and vibrant colors.
To celebrate the 45th birthday of Italdesign, Giorgetto and Fabrizio Giugiaro presented at Geneve Motor Show 2013 the Parcour Concept.
Available in two versions at the Motor Show, coupé and roadster, Parcour is a blend between a sporting mid-engine GT car and an off-road rambler and it mounts a 5.2L V10 Lamborghini engine that is capable of producing a maximum of 550 horsepower. The drive train is mounted on a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gear box enabling the car to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.6 seconds. The concept comes with an adjustable suspension, that makes possible to elevate the ride height from 8.2 inches to 13.0 inches.
Visually, the Parcour displays a number of interesting design elements, including a detached A-pillar wind deflector, octagonal fenderwell openings that house a 22-inch wheel.
On the inside a large LCD screen is providing all vehicle's information, including GPS maps, backup camera's image and visuals for the audio system. The cabin also comes with a Plexiglas dashboard with the audio and climate controls, knobs for transmission programming and adjusting the suspension.
]]>
Half-car, half-motorbike is the blend of the new creation made in Campagna, the Canadian company located in Boucherville, Quebec. This new creation is named T-Rex 16STM and it's a three wheeled rocket, fueled by a 1.6 liter engine, capable to generate 160 horsepower, and equipped with a sequential six-speed transmission.
Considering the power of the engine and the ultra-light weight of the vehicle, which is less than 500 kilograms, the T-Rex 16STM is able to reach the speed of 100 Km/h in less than 5 seconds.
Offered in eight different colors, the two-passenger three-wheeler features a tubular chassis with an integrated roll cage and three-point seatbelts inside a fiberglass body shell with carbon-fiber accents. T-Rex 16STM comes with BMW's electronic driving mode selection for improved traction and better control on wet or loose roads, Alpine audio system, iPod/iPhone jack, USB port and Bluetooth connectivity.
Prices to enjoy this fun and unconventional vehicle start from 58000 USD.
FireFly by GeoSpace Studio is a human-powered recumbent trycicle replicating the form of the soft-bodied beetles making crepuscular use of bioluminescence, with which it shares its name and the visibility scope of its self-illuminated glowing shell.
The natural comparisons stop here, as Firefly actually presents itself as a rather futuristic, UFO-like head-turning vechicle.
Its cool exterior brings a splash of modernity to the cycling act and represents an ingenious example of incremental innovation applied to sustainable contemporary life means.
GeoSpace has conceived the good kind of design that responds to the needs of target users, one in which form and function optimally complement each other.
Cycle-riders’ otherwise peaceful lifestyle is in fact only crossed by uncomfortable adverse weather, namely cold and wet, and the safety issue of not being seen by cars or other riders at night time.
Firefly is topped by a transparent dome allowing visibility to the rider, while the bottom part of the shell presents colored LEDs, conversely allowing the rider to be visible.
As of yet, GeoSpace Studio has no plans of putting FireFly on the market, but still this simple design concept presents great potential, especially considering countries with a widespread bycicle adoption and common ghastly weather.
Just recently presented at the 83rd Geneva Motor Show, the child born from the collaboration between the European Design Institute (IED) and the well-known car producer Alfa Romeo is one of the most sophisticated examples of Italian leadership in automobile design. With a name standing for brilliance, grandeur and fineness, Gloria is a proud homage to sportiness and sleekness at the wheel, at the same time representing a strong "Made in Italy" image.
The project was an important opportunity to involve the school's young designers in developing a product able to reach the American and Asian consumers, markets in which there is a steadfast perception of the quality of Italian creativity. The remake of a classic Alfa sedan is the perfect symbol for elegance and prestige, matched to the incomparable innovation and comfort that the brand constantly displays in its models.
The twenty brilliant students of the Master of Arts in Transportation Design at IED were coordinated and supported at every stage of their work by the Alfa Romeo Style Center, with the help of presentations, informative briefings and modeling sessions. The final result of this tight collaboration is a bold sport sedan with smooth, sculpture-like lines running along its almost five meters of length, potentially powered by the latest generation V6 or V8 bi-turbo engine. The concept that led to its completion duplicates what really happens during the handling of a project in Alfa Romeo, dividing the process into several smaller stages all of which require assessment and approval. Twenty different design proposals were sketched and gradually brought down to ten 1:4 scale clay models, making it easier to decide on the single, final vision which best fit the measurement, style and technical criteria of the producer company.
]]>
The yearly Geneva Motor show sure is a highlight for car lovers, as is the new Provo Concept by Kia, who has taken a stab at the sport hatchback segment.
As Kia states: “The Provo Concepts combines a 1.6-litre Turbo GDI engine producing 204 PS with smart-4WD-hybrid technology from an electric motor delivering an additional power surge to the rear wheels when required and also allowing low-speed electric-only motion. A seven-speed DCT transmission completes the impressive technical package.”
Sounds quite innovative, but for those of us who can adapt more to the design part of the vehicle, the Provo also has plenty to offer. The interior consists of a fiber dash garnished with analog gauges and a small digital display. The toggles controlling most of the car's system are mainly made out of aluminum while column-mounted paddle shifters are responsible for swapping gears. The whole concept was based on the idea of excellent functioning technology in a clean, clear manner instead of having one big centre console. To add exuberant style, the interior is mainly held in black. The dashboard offers various screen displays allowing to choose between several modes according to different needs ranging from different driving styles to full entertainment mode. LED lights are being used as front light as well as for inside illumination.
Talking about the exterior, the car looks muscular as well as agile. Colour-wise, it is a true eye catcher and the frameless doors add a heightened sense of elegance. Its compact form and the mix of petrol-fuelled turbo-charged engine with additional regenerative-electric motors, giving a power boost of 45 PS when needed or manually activated. This system promises an exciting driving experience for the city based car enthusiast who longs for curves on the open road once in a while.
With this hybrid bruiser, Kia wanted to create a vehicle that is cheeky and cheerful, mission accomplished I would say. But don’t get too exited, Kia has no plans to bring the Provo to life yet.
]]>
During the 83rd Geneva International Motor Show, Subaru showed that lot can still be done in terms of design and eco-sustainability. Presenting their last masterwork, the SUBARU VIZIV CONCEPT, Fuji Heavy Industries changed the perception of crossover. VIZIV is the future-generation crossover that unveils the new design direction and technologies of the Japanese corporation – simple and clean lines and never-seen-before power units.
The car itself balances simplicity of lines with some elements from a supercar as the air vents behind the front wheel arches and a striking rear diffuser with four tailpipes, highlighted by the hi-tech colour- the Mistral Silver Metallic that emphasizes the sporty and lean silhouette of VIZIV.
The interior design is super technological and is intended to facilitate the ease of operation of the systems infotainment and help control the vehicle. The instrument panel displays the operation status of Subaru's own driving assist "EyeSight" system to optimize different parameters to ensure the most sublime driving experience.
Speaking of power units, Subaru evolves proposing a Boxer Diesel Hybrid engine. Actually, saying “engine” is an understatement, in this case in fact there are three! The powertrain combines 2.0-litre Boxer diesel engine - that supplies vehicle drive and power generation - and two independent rear motors for drive only. No miscommunication intended between the engines, to guarantee a smooth ride a control unit is coupled with a camera that analyses the flows of traffic and cleverly manages the power delivery choosing the right power unit to use. This type of motor really boosts the Subaru’s driving philosophy – peace of mind and fun for all occupants – ensuring maximum efficiency and high performance in all road conditions.
4 meters long and 32 cm wide, 1.90 m, 1.51 m high on a wheelbase of 2.64 meters, the VIZIV is equipped with two gullwing opening doors that allow access to both passengers – front and rear seats. The cabin at the top shows a very impressive glazing in contrast to the design of the solid body panels creating a sporty and slim silhouette. As said before, everything must be comfortable and relaxing, thus comes an interior space designed to give maximum functionality and amusement. Some amazing features are:
-
custom information displays in front of the front passenger seat and in the rear seating area to let passengers share the buzz of being in the driver's seat.
-
the 100% motor-driven rear wheels eliminate the need for a propeller shaft, creating a lower floor that offers ample legroom for rear seat occupants despite its compact size.
VIZIV, as intended by its name, truly is a Vision for Innovation and expresses not only the future direction of the brand, but also what does it mean to have a car that is fun, eco-sustainable and super cool. Unfortunately, to experience the thrill to have your own VIZIV you should wait until Subaru will start the production of this bold concept and you can bet it will definitely worth the wait.
The 2013 Geneva Motor Show was the perfect stage for presenting the new Pininfarina Ferrari Sergio concept car, a futuristic re-elaboration of Ferrari’s glorious past: the name itself is a tribute to one of the most famous Italian car designers, Sergio Pininfarina, who has been linked to Ferrari for a long period of time.
Pininfarina Ferrari Sergio is the concept of a two-seat “small boat”, a model that has always been conceived as a form of expression of one’s passion for driving. The indissoluble link between Pininfarina and Ferrari, born in 1952, has been creating some of the most appreciated sports car in the world, and the actualization of a classical Ferrari model, such as the two-seat small boat, seems the perfect mean to link past and future.
According to Fabio Filippini, design director at Pininfarina, "We were motivated by the spirit of Pininfarina's best sports cars, Ferraris of the '60s and '70s designed under the leadership of Sergio Pininfarina. In particular, the Dino Berlinetta Speciale of 1965, the Ferrari 250 LM, the P5, the Modulo, and the Mythos."
From a technical point of view, performance standards are as follows: 0-62 in 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 199 miles per hour, courtesy of Ferrari's 570-horsepower 4.5-liter V8 engine.
It is the design sphere, though, that plays a central role: radical, exclusive simplicity oriented to optimal performance definitely leads the way. This approach is evident thanks to the absence of windshields, compensated by the customized helmets for both driver and passenger.
Together with the unforgettable Ferrari red colour, this Concept car is a celebration of Pininfarina DNA in terms of design: shapes are minimal and morbid but still well defined, and every single part of the car is fruit of a study of aerodynamic, which results in extreme lightness of the whole structure. Distinctive traits of this car are, no doubt: the black longitudinal graft connecting the limber with the posterior part of the body; the car door vertically rotating to facilitate the access and safeguard, at the same time, the maximum rigidity of the structure; the futuristic re-elaboration of beacons which are integrated through a unique transversal transparent element. Last but not least, it is worthwhile mentioning that all the technical parts are concentrated in the dark side of the bodywork, a concept that leaves free every part in red and exalts the purity of Pininfarina style.
]]>
At the Geneva Motor Show, Toyota has just unveiled the iRoad: an electric three-wheeled vehicle that combines the advantages of a scooter, in terms of low running costs and ease of use, together with the ones of a car.
The i-ROAD is, in fact, ultra-compact (2.3 meters long, 1.4 meters high, 0.8 meters wide) and it can cover up to about 50 kilometers with one single charge, after which it can be fully recharged in three hours. The vehicle is powered by an all-electric powertrain that uses a lithium-ion battery to power two 2kW motors mounted in the front wheels.
Toyota has created a new intuitive Active Lean system, a self-balancing system, able to perfectly control the inclinations also at full speed and that is the key of the high levels of stability, safety, comfort and fun-to-drive spirit of i-ROAD.
Toyota believes that this new concept has the potential to reduce urban traffic congestion as well as air pollution. At the moment, a possible launch date and a price have not yet been set, but we know that next month the new concept will be tested at Grenoble, France, where seventy i-Road will be part of a new experimental service of “car” sharing.
]]>
The CA-MiEV, an astounding vehicle concept, was unveiled and world premiered at 2013 Geneva Motor Show by Mitsubishi Motor Corporation (MMC), testifying to its long standing effort in driving the distance onto the electro-mobility not-so-rocky road.
Mitsubishi, whose global warming related R&D dates back to 1966, can flaunt the success of its much acclaimed i-MiEV, the electric version of Mitsubishi i, whose eyebrow-raising acronym stands for Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle.
Pioneered in 2009, and rebadged by PSA Peugeot Citroen within the European market that was leading the way,the i-MiEV was fondly nicknamed as the “electric jellybean” because of its rounded shape and was widely embraced as the vehicle of the future for consumers to express their eco-selves.
The Compact and Advanced (CA) MiEV version of the i-MiEV, though not meant for production, acts as a declaration of intent that builds up on the existing technology first and foremost hinting to the possibility of extending the EV potential beyond a strictly urban environment.
The design itself is elongated, and great emphasis is put on compact sleekness.
The 5-door spaceship-like vehicle of the future is in fact arrow shaped and has a coefficient drag target of 0.26, with a full flat floor, rear view cameras and minimal air intakes.
The boomerang sculpted lights appear in the front as ice-cold eyes giving it precision and direction, while the rear ones hint to flames for power and forward motion.
Form here complements function; in that the mile-range extends from the standard i-MiEV 62 miles to reach the 186 miles (300km), thanks to the advanced aerodynamics and, for the tech savvy reader, a high density 28-k Wh lithium-ion battery and lightweight 80-kW all-in-one integrated motor/inverter/charger unit.
This increased mileage repositions the vechicle as a “suburban EV”, with enough range for approximately one week of driving for the average European commuter. The flat battery pack also leaves room for a range extender if more would be needed.
The high efficiency drivetrain moreover accounts for magnetic resonance wireless charging technology.
Mirroring its always on users, the vehicle presents convenience features which connect it to the rest of the planet, such as automatic e-mailing and e-calling in case of theft and emergency, along with remote controlling and data transfer from smartphone to in-car system.
Coming from someone whose favorite show when she was little was “Speed Racer” (an anime cartoon about Speed, a young racecar driver who drove the Mach 5. This was no simple speedster – with the push of a button, spikes would eject from the wheel or some other absurd gadget), this first Arab super car the Lykan Hypersport, is an incredible imagining on behalf of Beirut-based W Motors. The design is reminiscent of the animated Mach 5, with its aggressive lines that come to a point at the headlights. It looks like it could cut through water as easily as it can slice through air – all the way up to 390 km/hr, and up to 100 km/hr in only 2.8 seconds. The super car houses a mid-mounted flat 6 cylinder, twin turbo engine that generates 750 horsepower.
But even if you can’t fully appreciate the perspective of the numbers, the design of the vehicle is more than enough to make you wish you could sit in its gold-stitched leather seats and experience the 3D Virtual Holographic Display with Tactile Interaction – not to mention the diamond-encrusted LED lights. Inside and out, this car is truly tricked out with luxury bordering ridiculousness – but that excessive feel is what makes this kind of car so utterly appealing. The body of the car has an overall sleek, smooth shape, yet the rounded lines all meet at harsh, almost mean angles. It begs to be pulled over on the highway just for looking suspicious, but it you’re going to get pulled over, it might as well be while you’re sitting on gold-stitched leather.
]]>
Piaggio, the Italian brand that has always stood out for its innovation efforts and attention to ecology, proposed a challenge to the graduating Transportation Design students at IED Turin. The request was to identify and develop concepts, consistent with the values of the brand Piaggio, analyzing the needs of the younger segment that likes to move individually in a urban and extra-urban environment and investigating the issues related to ecology and new technologies. Piaggio asked the students to imagine the possible evolution of its range, considering its history, with the intention to provide a ever more sophisticated conveyance that had to be simple to use and consistent with the utmost respect for the environment.
The project were presented by 10 graduates of the Post-diploma course in Transportation Design – BYT (Bike, Yacht and train) Design and, out of these, 3 were selected by the client basing its choice on the 'grip' of the final proposal compared to the brief submitted initially to the students.
Each bike designer worked on a proposal for a two-or three-wheel concept, from freehand drawing, to setting up render and sketch the definition of the alias in the mathematical model in 1:1 scale and to a 3D modeling for final assembly of the video project. Hence the development of innovative and different ideas including Mantide by Giacomo Dalla Fina, a super ecological three-wheeler that can be folded when parked.
The idea started from the 23-year-old student awareness of the many problems of mobility in urban centers today -smaller and smaller spaces, traffic, pollution (not only environmentally speaking but also acoustically), lack of security on the streets and aging users. In step with the client requirements this concept is suitable for young people, but it should be said that the actual target doesn’t have a predetermined age, it is suitable for all because it offers several benefits for all age groups.
Designed to be assembled with the newest ecological materials, Mantide is a concentrate of innovation. One of the materials chosen by Dalla Fina is an “environmentally active ceramics”, a type of self-cleaning and anti-bacterial material that invokes the photosynthesis process and transforms toxins and pollutants emitted into harmless components.
The concept is equipped with an electric engine that can provide a power up to 125cc, and offers the possibility to lower the power down to 50cc to be ridden by 14-year-old folks too. Mantide is comfortable even when comes to find a parking spot, in fact, it is designed to close on the core pin which also acts as a charging indicator (green – 100% to 25%, amber – 25% to 1% and red – dead or charging). Thanks to this super useful characteristic, in the space occupied usually by a common city car may be parked even 6 Mantide.
Not to leave anything to chance, the customization of this concept can be brought to a high level. The buyer can choose his preferred materials for his Mantide expressing his style, chooses the weight and, of course, defines the price.
Once again you can see how the encounter between Companies ready to create new patterns for the future and talented students can always give back workable and innovative ideas.
]]>
MV Agusta presented their new motorcycle at the latest EICMA show in Milan. Rivale 800 is the result of an advanced project, merging the stylish futuristic aesthetics with the traditional concept of the Italian company.
The attractive look is followed by good performance. The MV Agusta motorcycle Rivale 800 weighs 170 kg and features a 125 hp engine. The middle section is designed so that the driver gets enough comfort and freedom of movement. LED lights at the front add an elegant touch and reduce the width visually. That being said, in addition to serving as “make-up”, the front lighting contributes to better visibility and increased safety. The rear side lights and brake lights are placed in two separate elements, while the direction indicators were put on small wings that go well with number plates in different sizes. When retracted, the rear view mirrors are useful for sporty driving on closed roads and, when open, they are also telescopic to improve rear visibility.
The dashboard is compact, yet legible featuring a monochrome fully digital, multi-function display and offering maximum availability of information and parameters. The custom setting permits complete freedom to suit the personal preferences of the rider.
MV Agusta Rivale 800 will be available in the second half of 2013 starting from 10.990 €.
]]>
If you can dream it, he can bring it to life. Virtual life, that is. Sean Yoo is a concept transportation artist currently based in Los Angeles, CA. With his concepts featured in Hollywood blockbuster movies such as Ender’s Game and Robocop and a degree from Art Center College of Design, Sean Yoo is surely a star in the making.
The world expressed in pixels is a world of endless possibilities with one’s genius being the only limit. That’s why it is essential to have a clear vision so that the result is coherent rather than chaotic. And that’s exactly what Yoo has managed to master. The genuine idea behind his concepts is undoubtedly futurism. Keeping his main focus on transportation, Sean Yoo has created various concepts that range from two-seaters to spaceships. While his careful detailing of robotic machinery relies on the advanced technology that we may some day experience, his sketches of sports cars give us a wonderful collision of sci-fi and 80's nostalgia.
]]>
Riding a bike is a timeless experience, that is why the aim of the ‘X132 Hellcat’ is to transport riders back in the gold days of American biking, when riding was not just an occasional diversion but a lifestyle. The feeling of power, velocity and freedom are what motor aficionados anticipate and this expectation is met by providing high quality detailing.
The 6061 billet aluminum core gives the motorbike an elegant and majestic appearance although still being lean. Top quality carbon fiber Pirelli wheels, tires and brakes enable road confidence for long-travels or speedy journeys. It’s mounting system suspensions are ideated to minimize torsion, bend distortion and weight, keeping the axles aligned under all circumstances.
The result of traditional engineering and design principles is a product that persists through the years and is positively responded by the public.
This magnetic cycle is a jewel for motor experts, it’s cost is plausible, 50,000$. As it slashes, snorts and lurches the only thing left for the pilot to do is hold on and enjoy the journey.
]]>
Futuristic and appealing: that's the new G-Class SUV by Mercedes-Benz. However, as the best of treasures, it will be hard to obtain. In fact, this is just a “civilized” concept of what Mercedes-Benz thought for a highway patrol car in a quite distant future, precisely in 2025.
And how will cars be in 2025, if not super sustainable and electric? Ener-G-Force is more than that –it's modern, cool and green. Presented at this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show and inspired by the current G-Wagen 4x4s, this concept brings the history of the venerable Mercedes’ G-Class on a whole other level. It has sinuous and reassuring lines, but at the same time it has a strong and rugged look. The Ener-G-Force is the synthesis of how designers view the future of the automobile –environmental friendly with a twist that makes it unique.
The Ener-G-Force has a very sophisticated propulsion system based on fuel cells. For energy purposes, the roof houses some tanks that contain recycled and purified water, which is then transferred to a device called hydro-tech-converter. Here the water is transformed into hydrogen, which is essential for feeding the fuel-cell system. The hydrogen fuel can be stored in the modular side skirts, which are easily accessible. The innovative concept obviously emits nothing but water vapor, and according to Mercedes-Benz, it offers a range of about 800 km. The Ener-G-Force has four motors positioned at each wheel, to ensure the right amount of driving force based on the characteristics of the soil. Mercedes- Benz designers thought at every possible scenario, even the one where officers have to chase criminals off-road, and so equipped the Ener-G-Force with an ingenious device called “Terra-Scan”. It is a topographical scanner that constantly analyzes the surrounding ground and permit to adjust accordingly the suspensions and other parameters of the car, to ensure at all times the most efficient traction.
Now, let's take a quick look at some details of this pearl of the future: like the G-shaped LED headlamps, the super-wide tires, the lock of the vault door and the removable batteries at the base of the lower pillar that become a comfortable footrest.
This car has truly hit the public, showcasing a renewed design language that expresses strength and grandeur – pure Mercedes-Benz style.
]]>
What happens if the Lamborghini Sesto Elemento meets the polygonal designs of the Batmobile of Nolan's movies? Ondrej Jirec, student at Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California, seems to have an answer. A genius one as a matter of fact.
Vandeyk Contemporary Cycles has been founded by creative industry professional and bike enthusiast Arendt Van Deyk in 2010 in order to combine creative excellence with his long standing passion for bicycles and cycling. Working with the approach of an open creative platform, future bicycle collections will feature further inspiring cooperation and influences from all creative areas.
In November of this year, Vandeyk unveiled their new bicycle collection, named "Purple Blast". The intention of the bicycle design-house,that has recently launched its second collection, is still to explore the intersection between design, art, hand-built bicycles and photography. This desire is achieved through a multidisciplinary collaboration of experts with the aim to build functional art objects on two wheels without any compromise also in terms of quality.
The artwork of "Purple Blast" is inspired by a solar flare, transferred in dashing purple colours. To enhance its uniqueness, the collection was staged in a black ambiance and it is included in an exclusive short film on Nowness, shot in collaboration with London-based art and design practice United Visual Artists (UVA), transforming a bicycle wheel into a hypnotic homage to early pop art.
Coming to technical details, “Purple Blast” is a performance-oriented roadbike, featuring Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 electronic shifting technology with fully integrated wiring. The material for the frames is Columbus XCr stainless steel and all the others components are also of premium quality. The paint of the "PURPLE BLAST" collection is applied in a highly sophisticated process and the collection is strictly limited to 25 hand numbered bicycles.
]]>
The Onyx concept car is the new supercar made by Peugeot and presented at Paris Motor Show 2012.
Built using raw materials innovatively, this supercar has been especially thought and created by enthusiasts inspired by the world of racing. With its mid-mounted V8 engine, Onyx offers high performance controlled at all times through a cockpit with intuitive instrumentation and controls.
The first things that immediately characterize the car are the body form, sharp with a contrast of materials and colours, and a real attention to detail. The wings and doors are handcrafted by a master craftsman from a single sheet of pure copper. Other body panels are formed in carbon, and painted matt black. On the back it is possible to find the tail-lights, which show the three-claw light signature characteristic of Peugeot.
The car is 4.65m long with a weight of just 1,100kg and with a TV8 hybrid HDi FAP 3.7-litre engine, able to transmit its 600bhp to the rear wheels via a 6-speed sequential gearbox. The doors provide easy access to the interior through a sophisticated Pantographic mechanism design with two movements.
The same attention for design and for materials choice can be found also in the interior. The cockpit is made of felt, compressed and stretched, and then modelled with no seams or joins. Also the dashboard is constructed with an innovative material, named ‘Newspaper Wood’ and produced from used newspapers, assembled and compressed.
The carbon structure combined with the felt surface creates a protective environment around its occupants, that integrates all the features usually performed by individual components, such as soundproofing, floor, high console, roof and bucket seats.
Integrated into the dashboard facing the passenger, there is a tablet device providing an interface for the car infotainment. The same philosophy has been applied to a concept scooter and bike, which are always named Onyx.
]]>
Starting from today 77|011 is no longer just a series of numbers, but it’s a symbol of design, functionality and technology as this is the name of the new bike made by Rizoma. The company was conceived in the early 90’s with the intent to mix Italian style with a particular attention to neo-technology in order to create products that are able to convey a natural harmony between these two components.
The metropolitan bike 77|011 by Rizoma is, in fact, the fusion of cutting-edge technology with an exclusive design. Its key feature is multifunctionality with dual single speed and fixed-gear capabilities: the rear wheel comes, indeed, ready with two mounts that allow the rider to choose freely between two pulleys, depending on their preferred mode of travel.
Coming to the design, the sleek carbon fiber structural skin frame gives to it a modern look and, with a weight of just 8kg, makes it easy to carry on a shoulder when climbing stairs or going into the subway. Moreover, the simplicity of the design and the possibility to adjust the seat to different heights, makes it possible to adapt the bike to everyone.
Shiny carbon and matte white are the two color variations available for Rizoma’s newest creation, that is available for purchase at 3,700 euros on the website specifically created for this extraordinary product.
]]>
Smart is already famous for making the concept of electric cars a reality, but now they have taken their already wildly successful smart coupe and upgraded it in a very big way. At the 2012 Paris motor show, a smart concept car could have been lost among names like BMW, Audi, and infinity, all of whom displayed large, sleek, achromatic, spaceship-like, vehicles of the future. However, the new SUC (Sports Utility Coupé) smart forstars stood out with a contemporary, yet down-to-earth, friendly design, a pop of red (specifically “alubeam rouge”), and a whole lot of function function function.
The design of the car is very much in keeping with the smart aesthetic yet added details give this car a newer sense of futuristic style, technology, and convenience. The most striking difference is the total elimination of the boxy, top-heavy look we are used to seeing from smart. Instead, the forstars is aerodynamic, sleek, and enhanced by beautifully sensual lines. The front is architectural, yet extremely face-like with headlights acting as a pair of sassy eyes. Encircled by outer LED rings, the lights are covered by a set of “eyebrows,” giving them a distinctive, U-shape. Another feature worthy of note is the convex, glass coupé roof, which leads seamlessly over the unexpectedly spacious cargo area.
In congruence with design, smart has certainly put function and technology at the very top of their to-do list. Not only is the cargo area surprisingly spacious, it also features an electronically retractable floor to maximize storage: surely the perfect feature for a traveling city-dweller. However, the most technological feature is surely the marriage of smart car to smart phone. Many aspects of the smart forstars can be activated via smart phone. For example, on a cold winter day, you can set the interior temperature of the vehicle from a phone so it is ready when you are. Of course, we must also be ready to expect the unexpected. A smart phone also operates the media player and projector located in the front bonnet: all you need is a blank wall for the perfect drive-in movie night. And finally In terms of “driveability,” no longer will the smart have a powerless and slow reputation. A brand new 60 kW magneto-electric motor (also featured in the new smart BRABUS) is sure to catapult this amazing little car through the world’s cities at record speed…so long as you don’t run into traffic.
]]>
TeRRA, the SUV crossover unveiled in September at the Paris Motor Show, powerfully testifies to Nissan's willingness to fully drive into sustainable motoring territory.
An innovative fuel cell electric powertrain is the highlight of this exciting zero-emission effort by the company, fuel cells being the new frontier of eco-mobility. The front wheels are powered by an electric propulsion system placed under the bonnet already present in Nissan's LEAF model, while each back wheel features an in-wheel electric motor.
When it comes to TeRRA as a design concept, its peculiarity and innovative streak rest in the way it challenges the convention of electric vehicles being strictly tiny, sleek and light. As cued by its sturdy exterior, TeRRA is conceived as equally apt for silently gliding in a urban context as for making it on a tougher road. It is a new approach to SUV, so as to render this format relevant to the eco-friendly necessities of modern urban life as well as providing the driver with a secure feeling on diverse road and weather conditions. Big tires and thick side windows evoke the SUV format, while elements such as a slender waist, sculptured bonnet and overall sharp corners and clean lines lighten up the bulk of its structure and add to the feeling of the so-called "modern toughness" Nissan aims for. The inspiration for the car and its design stems from Northern Europe and the lifestyle of elegant and educated, youthful consumers which are environmentally conscious and innovation-oriented.
The shiny exterior gives way to a warm and comforting interior setup Norwegian wood-style. Here recyclable plywood and colored acrylic are woven together in an interesting pattern, making up the surface of the door panel and the dashboard. An electronic tablet is featured as a key instrument of seamless information for the driver. In line with the trend of portable devices, the tablet acts as a smart key the driver can dock in behind the steering wheel when entering the car and remove when leaving. Vehicle instrumentation and infotainment systems are all run by the tablet. Being removable, the tablet can be brought home so as to monitor car functions and performance. The seating also is arranged in an unconventional quasi-diagonal layout. The driver takes up an almost central position, so as to ensure exceptional visibility and a unique driving experience also for the rear passengers, better engaged to take part in the potential great outdoors adventures inevitably ahead of the TeRRA user. To the point, the boot floor is completely flat, devoid of hurdles for carrying gear, the flat structure being a by-product of the compactness achieved by the fuel cell and electric motor ensemble.
Purely a concept car and not a technical exhibit, TeRRA nonetheless signals Nissan's readiness to mass-produce fuel cell electric vehicles in the future. Moreover, as it stands TeRRA could influence the design and extrinsic cues and details of future company vehicles and inspire the employment of its technology in showroom models of the future.
]]>