Geneva 2016 – Showfloor Mega Gallery – Part Two 111-tile

Geneva 2016 – Showfloor Mega Gallery – Part Two

So, so much hotness in here. Aston Martin DB11, Huayra BC, Apollo Arrow, Remac Concept One, Ferrari GTC4 Lusso, new Spyker and Zenvo’s….! Our favorite is split between the new Apollo and the DS E-Tense.   Geneva 2016 – Showfloor Mega Gallery – Part Two      

Design Analysis – 2017 Lamborghini CENTENARIO + 20 Astounding Geneva Closeups

  This might be the most outrageous Lamborghini of all time. And that is saying something — there have been some real wild childs’ in the back catalog! The Centenario is a 40-unit special Aventador with all-new styling and 770HP.  Half coupes and half roadsters, they are all pre-sold. The big innovations over the Aventador include rear-wheel steering and a new carbon-fiber chassis tub.  Much part sharing for boring things (like glass and suspension details) with the Aventador, yet cutting out a large bit of mass by replacing its aluminum spaceframe with a CF tub wherever possible.  This is likely …

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Design Analysis – 2016 Pininfarina H2 Speed and Sigma Grand Prix

This is one of the first times someone has dusted off the idea of a hydrogen FCEV supercar in quite a while.  The most notable effort was likely from BMW more than a decade ago. There is certainly promise in a 180-second refill from a hydrogen station, then all the benefits of a full-EV drivetrain. Namely, SPEED! The H2 Speed is quoted at some quite impressive figures.  100-kph flashes by in a 3.4-second whir, and on to a max speed of 186-mph. DESIGN ANALYSIS All this is wrapped in the purest snow white panelwork you’ve ever seen.  The bubble-like nose …

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Geneva 2016 – Showfloor Mega Gallery – Part One

Highlights in the gigantic, 250-photo gallery below?  Definitely the W Motors Lykan Hypersport!  Painted to match the Furious 7 hero and attending Geneva for the first time. Others definitely include the Opel GT Concept, VW T-Cross Breeze, Arash AF10 (perhaps), Honda Civic hatchback concept, 2017 VW Up!, SEAT Alteca, Peugeot Traveller and many more! The new Smart Fortwo cabrio is looking sharp in bright baby blue, as are the new C-Class twins in C400 and C43 Cabriolet. Geneva 2016 – Showfloor Mega Gallery – Part One

Geneva Debuts – 2016 Subaru XV Concept – Less Hideous, More Production-Ready

Subaru has been bringing shockingly ugly concept cars to Europe for the big auto shows as long as anyone can remember. We’re equally unimpressed by this concept’s detailing, style and design decisions. As we were with the Viziv before.  Less repugnant… is still repugnant though. The difference is, this new XV Concept model is actually very, very close to production form.  Strip away the fug-nasty orange trims, fake honeycomb LEDs and the pricey paintwork, and we could be looking at the next-gen XV Crosstrek.  Of course, we will also see door handles and a frumpier roofline. The best angle is from the back, …

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2016 TechRules AT96 TREV Supercar Concept 1

2016 TechRules AT96 TREV Supercar Concept

Very promising debut from TechRules today!  The AT96 is the supercar startup’s launch prototype, making its big-league entrance in Geneva after a round of testing at Silverstone and years of development in China. The core premise is to introduce a revolutionary new turbine-recharged EV powertrain — and make it viable as a hypercar! Of course, keen readers will recall the many turbine misadventures in automobiledom, from the Chrysler Turbine cars to the original powertrain of the canceled Jaguar C-X17 prototype. The idea of turbines to deliver an EV charge makes perfect sense.  Military vehicles have employed this tech for decades. Functionally, the …

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2016 DS E-TENSE – Fantasy Color Visualizer of FULL-BALLS Supercar

2016’s confluence of new-car technology is great news for HOT supercars and concepts. Carbon Fiber for the the chassis can be the smallest of all batches: just one. And next, the freedom of an EV to package the batteries and drive motors relatively easily anywhere in the tubs.  This opens a lot of possibilities for fairly feasible ‘dream cars’ … following that dream road down from the Geneva showstand and into your garage! On that note, the 2016 DS E-TENSE is a perfect look at the R8-hunting, Tesla-scalping low-volume models that could come from the double innovations of CF and …

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Concept Debrief – 2007 Land Rover LRX

THe LRX today is kindof a non-event to view — simply because we are all so familiar with the production Range Rover EVOQUE’s design.  They are dead ringers for one another. But in 2007 when this stunning design vision rolled onstage, it was unlike any green oval truck ever before. Simply magnificent in its chunky, low and sporty proportions…. the LRX also evolved the tech-intense appeal of the LR and RR brands.  Monoblock surfacing all looks milled from solid billet steel — broken up only for ultra-slim and advanced LEDs and a blacked-out, low-roof glasshouse. The production Evoque would appear …

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2010 BERTONE Pandion for Alfa-Romeo Is Next-Level Brilliance Inside and Out 30

Hall of Fame – 2010 Alfa Romeo Pandion by BERTONE

We obviously cover a lot of concepts and dream cars here, but rarely does one captivate the eye and mind more than the 2010 Bertone Pandion. BERTONE: COMPANY SITUATION ANALYSIS First things first: Bertone (pronounced ‘Bear Tony’) is currently restructuring after some lean years in the Italian car business drained its corporate accounts to breaking point. Is this any way indicative of the quality of the firm’s design work? Absolutely, positively not. In fact, it is because of Bertone’s amazing ideas that the firm branched back into actual car factories versus just dreamy, steamy concept cars and prototypes. Full-scale production …

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HD Design Analysis – 2020 Volkswagen GT Ge by Eli Shala – Biplane Aero Theory, Negative Space Define EV Supercar

Imagine your senior year in college.  Did any of your final projects merit global attention, countless strategy meetings and even full-scale models? Your ideas, and how you expressed them, drawing attention from one of the largest and most-influential carmakers in the world? We’d bet not. But then, you are not the design whiz that is Eljesah “Eli” Shala, and you did not create the 2020 VW GT Ge “Ground Effect” design study. The start of a exceptionally promising career for Eli began long ago, but is picking up momentum rapidly in 2016.  All thanks to the extreme sportiness + eco principles …

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Top 10 SUPRA-Tastic Design Details – Toyota FT-1 Concept + 88 NEW Photos

NEW FT-1 photos?  Yes ALL NEW…? Sortof. We posted these originally on laptop in Santa Cruz, and the results were iffy.  So we went back to the originals, starting again and bringing the FT-1’s details to high-res glory! The most striking things about the FT-1 in person are its captivating beauty, extremely long-hooded proportions, and intense aero detailing. A stunning car. Let’s appreciate its top 10 design details from up close. The design of the FT-1 is visibly alive.  Functional ventwort in a dozen places around all side brings the wild, swooping fenders and hood into sharp relief.  The aero cuts and ground-effect details make …

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2016 Opel GT Concept 9

2016 Opel GT Concept – RWD Turbo Triple Under Sexy, Blown-Glass Exterior Design

Opel is trying to get its mojo back.   The German firm and its Vauxhall twin have taken a pounding in the last few years in terms of desirability and brand affinity. This Opel GT aims to realign the firm with modern Euro values and driving ideals. Best place to start? A lightweight purist’s special! This Opel GT’s design is what will make a big splash, but we like what is underneath even better. A front-mid mount for the turbo 1.0-liter triple sends power to the back wheels.  Simple pleasures! A six-speed sequential manual and 8.0-second sprint to 60-mph are …

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Concept Debrief – 2004 Kia KCV III – Glass-Roof CC Showed Newfound Design/Execution Skills

In a few short years at the turn of the millennium, Kia’s concepts went from reskinned and rebadged Lotus Elan’s to purely bespoke creations, designed with near-Italian flair.  And constructed with credible, world-class production values! This KCV III was an important mark in the sand for Kia’s evolution from niche budget brand to mainstream heavy-hitter. Today, the giant headlights are alarmingly out of style, but there is goodness shining through even there. Check out the bright white LED DRLs in the bottom of those giant lamps! And the full-frame grille set vertically into the bumper?  Finished in non-chrome grey, no …

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2016 DUCATI Concept Quartet! DRAXTER Racer & ARTIKA Are Dream HyperBikes

A gorgeous intro the the new dragracing Ducati tonight! Just a few official photos of the exotic prototype — but its fat-tire and launch control seem plausible in the near future. THe Artika is the rally race side of the new Ducati concept group — with electric neon paintwork and exposed contrast framework. Stunning!  They look amazingly fun. The other two new hotties are the Peace62 and the Revolution Scrambler. 2016 DUCATI DraXter Concept   2016 DUCATI Artika Concept       DUCATI SCRAMBLER UNVEILS THREE NEW SPECIALS AT THE MOTOR BIKE EXPO OF VERONA The Ducati Scrambler Land of Joy will …

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Worst of NAIAS - 2016 Acura Precision Concept 3

Update1 – 2016 Acura Precision Concept – Design Reboot Ruined By Another Fugly Nose

Updated with real-life photos. Good to see more angles of the Acura Precision Concept, a car whose design is really expressive and deep in real-life photos versus the initial renders.  The beak is still rough, but there is promise here. Acura is still having trouble rebuilding its sales since a brief peak in the early 2000s with the TL and MDX. More recently, the sales velocity for the brand is in terminal decline. A big part of the problem has been the dogged persistence with the ‘shield’ grille since at least 2007.  This is a look that no one really likes, …

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2016 Kia TELLURIDE Concept – LWB SUV Brings 7-Seat Chalet Cachet

The face of this all-new KIA Telluride concept hit me like a sucker punch in thumbnail form.  What is that, a Lada Bentley? But after a closer look, we have nothing but praise the this Telluride’s bluff yet rounded design themes. The core basics are all there: short front overhang, awesome long and level hood, plus a steep windshield rake like a future G-wagen. It all really works for the Telluride, especially in profile. Here the elegant, techy and innovative glasshouse wears a signature brightwork wrap-around.  In the tail, we have more clean lines and vertical forms. Yet all smooth …

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Best of NAIAS – 2016 Nissan TITAN Warrior Concept – Nightclub Cool + Baja-Tough Mods for Raptor-Killer

Update: We’re slightly confused now about the Titan Warrior Concept.  All the below still applies… but the Warrior is so different from the production truck. Much more-so than the Raptor is than the standard F-150.  So perhaps the Warrior is more of a dream-truck than a realistic Raptor hunter/killer.  It is still cool as fahk regardless., though. =] The Ford F-150 Raptor is so hot that no other brand can resist trying to beat its baja chicness on showroom floors. A solid basis for a real Raptor-killer from Nissan?  The 2016 TITAN XD — a full-size pickup so strong that it makes …

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2016 Audi h-Tron Quattro Concept 27

2016 Audi h-Tron Quattro Concept – Hypercomplex Tech Showcase Headed for Sale as $100k Tesla Rival as 2018 Q6

Audi’s big news for the Detroit show?  The new 2017 A4 and Q7 — which are set for arrivals to US showrooms in the next few months. Alongside those dull-looking production cars come massive cabin tech enhancements, efficiency boosts and all-new powertrains. A bit more exciting on the appearance front?  This new h-Tron Quattro Concept. Roughly previewing the size of an upcoming Q6 crossover, this latest prototype shows a production-intent hydrogen-electric SUV.  And boy is is complex: multiple tanks of hydrogen power advanced electrics for a range of nearly 400 miles, a 0-60-mph sprint under 7-seconds, and AWD grip just …

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2016 Buick Envision Driving Front

2016 Buick ENVISION Is New 5-Seat Crossover – Standard Turbo to Rival Audi Q5 – Arrives in April

The 2016 Buick Envision is a pretty huge part of an upcoming Buick product onslaught: the 2017 LaCrosse and Cascada cabrio are the other hotties new to the showroom floor. New to the brand ethos in general? A sexy expectation of future products like an AWD, V6TT variant on the Cadillac ATS Coupe/Chevy Camaro platform like the AVISTA concept. The dreamers among us noted right away: the AVISTA looks like an ideal basis for a next-gen GNX around 2019.  The Envision hopes to make its Chinese-import status an afterthought for US shoppers — through the sheer strength of its luxury …

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2016 Volkswagen Tiguan GTE Active Concept – 7-Seat Option + 20 EV Miles for 2017 USA Arrival

We’ve been exceptionally hard on VW USA over the years, even before the ongoing trainwreck that is their emissions scandal. If there is one glaring hole in the lineup, it is the SUV range. Tiguan and Touareg have been eagerly anticipating a CrossBlue SUV to slide between them. With a Passat basis and seven seats, the CrossBlue (name TBD) is actually firmly on the way. Hiring and Chatanooga production-floor mods are readied for this summer, with production penciled in to start September 2016.  The showroom arrival, as we all know, cannot come soon enough. December of 2016 as a 2017 …

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Concept Flashbacks – 2001 SEAT TANGO Trio – Cabrio, Roadster and Coupe Made Racy, Avante-Garde Superminis

Here is the next evolution of the SEAT cabrio design concepts from around the turn of the century: the 2001 Tango twins. The Tango itself is a sexy expression of ultra-modern, flowing and intersecting surfaces. There is almost an abstract artistry to the hyper-curved elements of the Tango’s nose and hood. A nice aero strake is also a trademark part of the design theme shown here. The rounded hood and front arch then flows back and downward toward the rear axle. It is a nice look and one that translated directly to a generation of SEAT production cars very nicely. …

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Concept Flashback - 1999 SEAT Formula Roadster 3

Concept Flashback – 1999 SEAT Formula Roadster

The 1999 SEAT Formula helped transition the brand into a new-millenium design mood. This was actually a really exciting time for the brand: the Leon Cupra was starting the earn buyers from previous GTI and Focus devotees as a five-door sportscar, while the Toledo and Ibiza were quite popular as well. This Formula concept was a mid-engined chassis layout with an alloy spaceframe chassis and bodywork, ensuring with the aim of delivering Boxster-like thrills on the road, but at prices below the Audi TT. The design themes shown on this car its main production impact, however, for the SEAT brand.   …

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2017 BMW i8 Spyder Teased Via BMW i Vision Future Interaction + ConnectedRide HUD Cycle Helmets

  BMW debuted a half-dozen new tech innovations at CES this year, including gesture control and mirror-less exteriors. But the real eye-catcher?  The BMW i Vision Future Interaction — a near-production 2017 BMW i8 Spyder. Sans two critical pieces, of course. Yes, the production car will have doors.  At first we thought the BMW i VFI Concept hid its doors in the side sills, a la the BMW Technik Z1 model sold in Europe briefly in the early 1990s. Alas, the lack of doors is just to give full view of the new cockpit controls and layouts.  This new user …

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2016 Faraday Future FFZERO1 Concept 10

2016 Faraday Future FFZERO1 Concept Throws Down Gauntlet – Now or Never, Laggards

Well, this is it!  Nearly 24 hours after the leaks began, and a full 12 since the press conference in Vegas last night, the Faraday Future concept car for CES is now in clear focus. Before you get too excited about a full reveal — with the normal specs, pricing and a production roadmap —it is best to temper expectations. This fantasy concept from Faraday Future is not headed for the road. Nor is it really headed for any race series. But racetracks? That is another story.  The quad-motor, AWD EV promises 1000+ horsepower and a 200-mph-plus top speed.  The electric motors are …

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2000 Lancia Stratos S81 Stola 3

Concept Flashback – 2000 Lancia STRATOS S81 by Stola

  We have a couple really cool concepts in the pipe from CES for later tonight and tomorrow, but a bit of a lull at moment. What better time to showcase a very influential concept car from Stola for Lancia at the Turin motorshow of the year 2000. Dubbed the Stratos S81, the machine updated the original proportions and design elements of the Lancia Stratos rally hero — but three decades later. WHat really strikes you about the S81 in 2016 is how influential is details ended up being, albeit long after its retirement. Most cloned details?  The boomerrang of …

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Concept Debrief – 2011 Volkswagen NILS – Govt-Funded EV Commuter Now Seems Like Unfathomably Bad Joke

It is very, very challenging to read (and write) about VW’s eco mobility ideas in light of the company’s current emissions scandals. The “diesel issue” — as it is known in German — really puts all the last ten years of innovative, visionary concept cars in the shameful, punishment corner of the automotive universe. What about the “C02 issue”?  Oh, that has resolved itself.  Not a pattern of lies and systemic fraud.  Hooray! Super, super trustworthy company, obviously. Beyond that obligatory caveat… This NILS concept shows how seriously the VAG once took its mission to mass-produce zero-emissions automobiles. VW was actually …

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2016 Acura Precision Concept – Teases Next-Gen RLX with Cali-Penned Fastback Coupe

  Just a single teaser sketch so far of the upcoming Acura Precision Concept, but it is a promising one! The design overtly previews upcoming sports sedan models from the resurgent luxury arm of Honda, with a design direction expected to diverge from the current Acura design direction.  Not much to learn from the teaser image about that look, but we can see impressively enhanced proportions. The long-hood and short front overhang is unlike current RL sedans or even the new TLX, as is the plunging roofline and curt tail — evoking a bit of Audi A7 or BMW 650i …

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Concept Flashback - 2009 RINSPEED iChange 34

Concept Flashback – 2009 RINSPEED iChange

How about an awesome Rinspeed concept to help forget the X-Trem from 1999? Flash forward ten years later, and we have the 2009 iChange — an ultra-low, sleek and sexy single-seat sports car — with a twist. At the touch of a button, the track-attack looks and functionality of the iChange into a chic three-seater with bubble glass canopy.  How?  The entire glasshouse shifts upward and forward, with its rear section base extending a few inches upward to give more headroom in back.   (It is subtle)  Very subtle.  So the name is iChange, but might be better billed as the …

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Mercedes-Benz Concept IAA (Intelligent Aerodynamic Automobile)

2015 Mercedes-Benz Concept IAA – Extreme Teardrop Drips Elegance for New Photoshoot

 This concept IAA is the best-looking among the trio of piloted-drive, alternative-propulsion concepts from big Benz this year. But how to love its active rear flange and sleek roofline, when the nose hits you like a punch in the cheek? Seeing the machine out in the wilds of natural light*, the integrated lighting up front creates a nicer glow. With so much solid white OLED in the grille slat edges, the inner portion resembles a more traditional V-shaped element. Even if it is just a matter of distance or movement, the IAA is undoubtedly stunning in these new photos —- …

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Concept Flashback - 2001 BMW X Coupe 4

Concept Flashback – 2001 BMW X Coupe

A design so unfeasible, we all thought, that it didn’t matter how unviable. An SUV Coupe?  Ruthlessly absurd! How wrong we were!  Car enthusiasts obviously recognize this compact crossover shape from more than three dozen new or upcoming road cars. The chopped roof, the bluff face and 1-series-previewing headlamps?  Z4 Coupe backlight, with the high rump of the X6? It all came true! Like a wild wet dream for gravel drifters… the X Coupe came well ahead of its time in 2001. Concept Flashback – 2001 BMW X Coupe

Concept Flashback – 1988 ITALDESIGN Aspid – Tinted Bubble Canopy

PART TWO: The Aspid bubble hardtop. This Aztec is the first of two from the design studio’s 1988 releases — and is a huge piece of automotive coolness that might otherwise be lost to the ages. It is hard to get psyched about 80s concepts sometimes, but this Aztec’s influence on SO MANY CARS of the 1990s is clear as day. Camaro, Corvette, Probe, RX-7, MX-5, 300ZX… the list goes on and on. The mid-engine concept car runs a 250-horsepower Audi-sourced engine, but its most memorable part is the glasshouse. Twin mini windshields wrap around both passenger compartments, and open …

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Concept Flashback - 1988 ITALDESIGN Aztec 11

Concept Flashback – 1988 ITALDESIGN Aztec – Twin-Cowl Design Full of Ideas and Impact

  This Aztec is the first of two from the design studio’s 1988 releases — and is a huge piece of automotive coolness that might otherwise be lost to the ages. It is hard to get psyched about 80s concepts sometimes, but this Aztec’s influence on SO MANY CARS of the 1990s is clear as day. Camaro, Corvette, Probe, RX-7, MX-5… the list goes on and on. The mid-engine concept car runs a 250-horsepower Audi-sourced engine, but its most memorable part is the glasshouse. Twin mini windshields wrap around both passenger compartments, and open upward in butterfly arcs as the …

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Concept Debrief – 1972 Maserati Boomerang by GIUGIARO – Leading Wedge Hypercar

  The wedge. This design mantra took over the minds of the world’s top stylists collectively around 1970 – as the Ferrari 512 S Module and the Lancia Stratos HF Zero concepts swept everyone to accept the shape. The design was the ultimate expression of mid-engine hypercar engineering of the time. In wind tunnels of the day, the goal was to have as little front surface area as possible. Something like a rocket for the road. Ferrari 512 S Modulo at Atlanta Dream Cars exhibit http://www.car-revs-daily.com/2014/06/10/dream-cars-1970-ferrari-512s-modulo-pininfarina/       Lancia Stratos HF Zero at Atlanta Dream Cars exhibit http://www.car-revs-daily.com/2014/06/10/dream-cars-1970-lancia-stratos-hf-zero-by-bertone/ Wind …

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South African RED BULL Concept Truck is Defender 130 APC

  Stealthy? Not to our eyes!  This futuristic armored personnel carrier is a really sleek bit of design, even if its radar signature is huge. The truck is a bit mysterious at the moment. It appeared online about a week ago in a few obscure spots, but has since been removed from at least one official Red Bull channel… RedBull.co.za in South Africa.  Nada from LR or RB press people about it, nor even a name beyond “Armored Event Vehicle.” The only thing we know is the chassis underneath: a Land Rover Defender 130 donated its LWB rails to this …

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2017 ZAROOQ SandRacer – Pricing, Tech Specs and 50 Pics of New Emirati Off-Roader

Zarooq just held its launch press conference! Very cool premier of an exceptionally promising rear-engine rally race truck — the SandRacer 300.   Teased since last summer, this new project is a partnership between global racing legends, skilled engineers and marketing savvy. All built and optimized for us in Zarooq’s back yard: the massive dunes of Arabia. The latest details make us even more excited about the project: rear-drive with a 3.5-liter V6 mounted in the mid-rear, the SandRacer is priced from about $100k at launch and will be road legal in the Middle East. The Zarooq’s otherworldly design outside …

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2015 Fiat Ducato 4×4 Expedition Concept Teases New ProMaster Drivetrain Option

The new RAM ProMaster vans in the US are winning some very devoted fans with their ultra-low floors and nimbleness even in the tightest American cities. All this and more is owed to its sibling, the Fiat Ducato, across the pond. This lavish concept van was a double threat for its reveal in Dusseldorf in August:  showcasing some awesome glamping upgrades inside and out. Yet also revealing a promising new 4×4 powertrain choice.  While this particular vehicle is a passenger model fairly unlike the US panel-van ProMasters that take most of the sales, the two trucks are nearly identical under …

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Concept Flashback - 2005 Fiat OLTRE 3

Concept Flashback – 2005 Fiat OLTRE

It is somewhat azmusing that the 2005 Oltre-Fiat concept truck’s name means “over” in a direct Italian to English translation. Of course, Oltre also means ‘above and beyond’ and ‘over’ and ‘onward.’  Many adventurous descriptions for a seven-ton monster of a military truck. “Over” of course now also applies to the Oltre-Fiat’s extremely gaudy, Hummer-esque lines.  An obvious attempt at glamorizing the blocky IVECO running gear down below, the entire upper bodywork is bright white. Yes, it is an eyesore and hideous by 2015 standards. But in 2005 at the Bologna auto show, the Oltre-Fiat proved that high-fashion military vehicles …

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2015 BMW Concept Compact Sedan Teases Upcoming 135i: $25k Base Price, Standard Turbo, RWD?

  Here is a bit of a mystery concept from BMW: the 2015 Concept Compact Sedan. Debuting at the Guangzhou auto show in China this week, the Concept CS is not mysterious about its production intent. One look inside the cabin of even the renders shows that this car is nearly finalized already, and likely to be in some global Bimmer showrooms by the end of calendar 2016. From there, things line up with logical powertrains in 120i, 128i and 135i, mirroring the two-door 235i, etc. Pricing for the eventual 1 series is likely to start at about $25k, at …

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2015 Scion C-HR Concept Teases Upcoming Production Crossover – $24k Pricing, Hybrid Option Predicted

Hey good lookin’! Your eyes are not deciving you: this new Scion concept might look very familiar. If so, it is because we have seen it at Geneva and Frankfurt in Toyota guise. The purple and grey C-HR concepts shown so far are exact clones of this Scion for good reason: all tease the same upcoming compact crossover. Priced below the RAV4 and tipped to offer a hybrid engine option, the C-HR is a handsome and on-trend statement of intent for Toyota and its Scion offshoot. This concept is not in the slightest bit production feasible, however, with wild shapes …

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2017 Sportage SX Turbo

2017 KIA Sportage SX Turbo Debut – Quad LEDs + Euro Handling Focus

The new Sportage is here in USA form, which we pleased to say looks exactly like the min-Cayenne of the Euro GT-Line rangetopper. The poshest trim for the USA is the SX Turbo AWD, as shown here. 2017 KIA Sportage SX Turbo PREVIOUS KIA’s push to excel globally is ramping up nicely. Frankfurt, California and Korea-based teams are now aligned to make the most of each area’s strengths. Korea as the lead manufacturing hub/supplier base, Cali as a tech and design center of excellence, and the European R&D division taking a much bigger role in vehicle development. It is a …

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2015 BMW Motorrad eRR Bike Concept 1

2015 BMW Motorrad Debuts eRR Bike Concept – Supersport Performance, 2WD 199HP Electrics

  Here is the latest concept from BMW Motorrad: the eRR electric racing bike. Running components from the S 1000 RR supersport bike, the eRR runs an AWD electric drivetrain plus full carbon-fiber for its bodywork and chassis. What the eRR lacks in futuristic design and style it makes up for with its production intent parts and performance. No word yet on range or sprint pace, but the eRR is an exciting snapshot into the R&D of next-gen BMW electric two-wheelers. 2015 BMW Motorrad eRR Bike Concept BMW Motorrad presents the experimental vehicle eRR. Supersport dynamism and zero emission thanks …

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2015 Audi e-tron quattro concept 5

2015 Audi e-tron Quattro and TT Clubsport Turbo Concepts Grace Future Performance Event

2015 Audi e-tron Quattro   Audi future performance days – test and concept cars Audi e-tron quattro concept: Electric driving pleasure with no compromises Audi e-tron quattro concept A foretaste of the production version: The electric-powered Audi e-tron quattro concept Range of more than 500 kilometers (310.7 mi) for full everyday usability New concept combines aerodynamics and creative design solutions     Flow-enhanced design with a drag coefficient of 0.25; a powerful, all-electric e-tron quattro drive with up to 370 kW – Audi is presenting the Audi e-tron quattro concept at the International Motor Show (IAA) 2015 in Frankfurt. The …

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Hyundai SEMA 2015 – Genesis Coupes From ARK and TJIN Are 1200HP of Sideways Bliss

Two Genesis Coupes are among the six-pack of official customs from Hyundai for the 2015 SEMA show. While the results from ARK Performance and TJIN are quite distinct, interesting similarities are present and notable between the two.  Most critically, the standard-equipment 3.8-liter, 350HP V6 is boosted up to quite extreme power levels via supercharged induction. TJIN runs a Vortex V4 supercharger with Bisimoto ECU tune, but few other mechanical mods to the engine internals. A ballpark output from this conversion is around 475 horsepower. Clearly enough to make the Genesis Coupe a powerhouse, of course, and one that looks divine …

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2015 DATSUN Go-Cross Concept Previews High-Ride, Low-Price Future Crossover

The Datsun brand’s revival is still at full speed, with a variety of models for sale in launch markets around India and Asia. Now we have a look at the brand’s next stage, a high-riding crossover. This preview shows us two things, both pretty impressive for a design concept: — the Datsun face and overall design style translate well onto an SUV shape — while this Go-Cross is dripping with swanky LEDs and gloss-black detailing, the parts underneath appear production-ready in most places. Datsun will certainly be producing this car, by the way. No coyness about that from the Nissan …

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2015 YAMAHA Sports Ride Concept – Deep Dive of Gordon Murray Links, Production Intent

More info and a huge batch of photos to share of the very-exciting Yamaha Sports Ride concept from Tokyo!  But, frustratingly, no actual engine specs or performance to share. What we know know is definitely enough to wet the lips: a 1500-pound, mid-engine sports coupe embracing motorbike fun as well as mass-production pricing. Sounds promising, yes?  Of course! Likely to be powered by a high-strung four-cylinder engine to back wheels via a paddle-shift automatic transmission, the Sports Ride concept is not just a flight of fancy from Yamaha. Yamaha’s precision engineering skills are well-known globally, with a built-in distribution network …

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subaru impreza 5-door concept 6

2015 Subaru Impreza 5-Door Concept, WRX S207 NBR Challenge Join Packed Tokyo Showstand

Subaru is really growing in leaps and bounds! No better evidence than a frankly packed Tokyo stand from the once-humble maker of AWD mountain cars. Joining the all-new VIZIV Future Concept on the stands is the also-new Impreza 5-Door Concept. While the new WRX still feels very fresh, it is always good to take a sneak peek at the next-gen design vision for the product. Since the WRX and Impreza lineups were formally divorced in this generation in the US, the XV Crosstrek has taken on a bit of an entry-level role in the Subaru range. But this is traditionally …

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Nissan IDS Concept-4 copy

2015 Nissan IDS Concept is Autopilot EV with Sharply Stylish Aero

Here is a pretty interesting concept car from Nissan for the Tokyo auto show: the IDS. This rolling showcase shows the latest Nissan vision for a sporty, ultra-efficient battery-electric vehicle of the future. One might think of this as a superLeaf, as well as a look at the tech expected to underpin the redesigned ~2017 Leaf. The major upgrades are everywhere: exterior design is all-new and aggressively sleek in the wind tunnel. The cabin is a future-tech fantasy of touchscreens and AI controls, including a fully autonomous drive mode. Under the actually-pretty-stylish nose and its extreme lower splitter, next-gen LEDs …

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2015 Lexus LF-FC Flagship Concept 4

Lexus LF-FC Flagship Concept Teases Next-Gen SuperLimo at Tokyo Auto Show

Exciting day in Tokyo!  The Lexus LF-FC concept is official, with more than a few surpriss along the way! First off, what are we looking at? Our initial hunch about this previewing the 2017 LS sedan appears wide of the mark: the proportions of this LF-FC are actually very low and sporty, much like a 650 from BMW versus a 750.  Yet another wrinkle in the mystery: the LF-FC is huge with a length of 208-inches. This is up from the 192-inch length of the GS, or 203-in max length for the current LS600hL.  It is also five inches wider …

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2015 Mazda RX-VISION Concept 10

2015 Mazda RX-VISION Concept Is All-New SkyActiv-R Super GT

With a name like RX-Vision, clearly Mazda is sending strong signals about a future RX-7 flagship. This RX concept for the 2015 Tokyo Auto Show is the clearest preview yet of a future supercar in the Mazda lineup. Power is not detailed in output, only in name and philosophy. The name is SkyActiv-R, and the engine layout will be a next-gen Wankel rotary. Possible turbo and hybrid tech may be employed to suite the car’s performance goals, which are clearly aimed squarely at the new Acura NSX and future Toyota Supra Turbo, expected for 2018 with FT-1-inspired proportions. The Toyota …

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Design Analysis – 2015 Renault COUPE CORBUSIER Is All-New Flagship Concept

Shades of brutalism, yet light on the inside and accented with with fantasy curves. The description of the iconic Villa Savoye country house in France neatly applies to almost all Le Corbusier’s creations. The architect is a legend in modernism, a movement that prioritized livable interiors, created with advanced industrial construction methods leaning heavily on steel and concrete. The idea of Villa Savoye being a legendary cabin in France just epitomizes the era of its design. Cold-war emotions were running hot, while WWII and its mass destruction of France inspired a clean break in the national mood.   Villa Savoye, …

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Chevrolet Reveals 2015 SEMA Fleet: 6-Pack of RED LINE Concepts

Pretty awesome little pack of Chevys heading to SEMA! The concept theme this year is Red Line — which is a light aesthetic upgrade for a variety of models using factory accessories and DIY-style customizations. Dark trims, LED-lit emblems, huge alloys and blacked-out details are a recurring element on the Malibu, Sonic RS, Camaro Red Line, Silverado, Colorado and the Trax! Enjoy this exclusive preview with 100 or so images of the yet-to-be-seen Red Line Series for SEMA 2015.   Chevrolet 2015 SEMA RED LINE Concepts Chevrolet Red Line Concepts Showcase Latest Accessories Themed collection highlights production, concept components   …

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2015 Nissan TEATRO for DAYZ 13

2015 Nissan TEATRO for DAYZ Concept is Next-Gen Stoner Streamer

Some trends have a strong basis in real-life, timeless buyer preferences. Boot-cut jeans fit a huge range of bodytypes in a flattering way. Ugg boots are actually ridiculously comfy and easy to wear all day. Workout clothes are comfiest when you are not working out. Same goes for urban yoofs of the world. Young-person culture adores the idea of a boxy social pod on wheels — as the Scion xD/xB and Nissan Cube took global. The hotness of the box shape never really went out of style in Japan. But is definitely in need of a connected-services and design-ethos refresh. …

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2015 Subaru VIZIV Future Concept 16

Subaru Tokyo 2015 – All-New VIZIV Future Concept and Impreza 5-Door Concept

Subaru has a new flagship design concept for the Tokyo Auto Show in early November. And despite its familiar VIZIV name, this masculine and high-tech design theme is very fresh. This third VIZIV Concept Future is an interesting preview of a future LWB Outback with seven seats. The powertrain and seating layout are much more Forester size for this sporty concept car, but the intention is a three-row variant of the large Outback platform, versus the smaller Impreza/Forester footprint.  Or perhaps just a super-lux future Forester. The cabin is shockingly advanced, as is the powertrain. A next-generation hybrid is paired …

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FUTURE-SPEC – Mazda MX-5 and CX-3 Platforms Reborn as Scion S-FR and Scion iD

A few months ago, Toyota and Mazda announced a major partnership in vehicle development and production. The Mazda2’s conversion into the US-exclusive four-door Scion iA is a huge hit, and the two Japanese rivals seemed eager to deepen the bond. There may have been an equity swap to even seal their newly-strong link. But details on the ground were — and are — very secret. What are they working on together? PART ONE:  The S-FR As the months pass, we have a much clearer idea: specific Toyota variants of Mazda platforms. The S-FR sports coupe for the Tokyo auto show …

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Nissan NC2020 Vision Gran Turismo Debuts New Nose, Color and Wheels

The NC2020 will star at Nissan’s packed exhibit for the Tokyo Auto Show starting in late October — with a few all-new details to captivate showgoers. An all-new satin red finish is the clearest change from the original Goodwood concept in its smokey silver. This shade is called Fire Knight and is a deeper and more sinister shade than the Nissan LMP1 in its GT-R race red. Other tweaks versus the first outing for the NC2020? Dark wheels with a sharper blade look to its five spokes, plus a cleaned-up nose with more sculptural and prominent V-motion grille bar. This …

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BMW Stunt G310 Is Hyper-Agile Bike Concept for Sao Paolo

BMW Motorrad has been balls-out this year with concepts in bike segments where the brand does not currently compete. This is a broad look into the future of the BMW two-wheeled range — with the engineers, designers and customers all taking the journey together. Where will the spinning top land, and which among the 2015 BMW bike concepts might make production? So far this year, we’ve seen a cruiser in the Concept 101.   Plus a dirt/sand/street Scrambler in the Path 22. And now an ultra-playful trick bike in the form of the Stunt G 310. We’d honestly vote for all …

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RENNtech 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK350 SPEC

Concept Flashback – RENNtech 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK350 SPEC.R Hybrid Pikes Peak

Renntech won the Mercedes SEMA 2010 tuner challenge, and was awarded a little present as a result! Another iteration of the concept — but this time as a real rally car! All the enhanced aero is needed when climbing up to 14,000-feet at Pikes Peak International Hillclimb — when the KW springs and new NITTO grip setup are also helpful. The powertrain is a RENNtech-tuned V6 pushing 350HP, an increase of around 80 ponies versus the atmospheric petrol. Non-turbo at Pikes Peak is challenging, so the SPEC.R Hybrid adds a jumbo PHEV battery under the rear floor. Finally, custom graphics …

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metisse

Concept Flashback – 2006 Citroen C-METISSE

Concept cars do not come more glamorous and futuristic than the 2006 C-Metisse! As the trend in the mainstraeam car business moves to ‘expectation-management’ and production-intent concepts only,the car-loving public is somewhat starved of truly fresh ideas. Proportions and technology that is 10, 20 or maybe even 30 years out. That is something that few thinly-veiled preview concepts cannot, by definition, preview. This makes sense on the one hand. You do not want car shoppers to have a huge sense of disappointment at the production model versus a concept. On the other hand, where is the awe? Where is the …

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Concept Flashback – 1969 Abarth 2000 Coupe Speciale by Pininfarina

This photoshoot recalls Patsy Stone from Absolutely Fabulous to me, but the car under her is not half bad either.  The Abarth 2000 Coupe Speciale by Pininfarina explored a doorless wedge design with forward-hinged full glass canopy. Shrouded and integrated lamps in front were also fairly revolutionary for the time — and a cue that would be adopted by supercars by the mid-1970s.     1969 Abarth 2000 Coupe Speciale by Pininfarina

2017 Buick LaCrosse Nose Teases Avenir-Style Grille – November Debut to Include SuperCruise?

Buick just started its 2017 LaCrosse striptease!  The new model will debut in November at the Los Angeles Auto Show with looks inspired by the Avenir concept, updated chassis and new rear suspension, plus an all-new and super posh cabin. The LaCrosse redesign is a promising one: this large front or AWD sedan is a real all-star in the General Motors global model range. It is giant inside all around, but especially in the back seat. Its appeal is broad with pricing matching up with the Lexus ES but with much larger accomodations inside. And lastly, it is a pretty …

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Watch the Adaptive Bodywork of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz Concept IAA Via New Animations

 Updated with 55 New Photos from Mercedes-Benz Frankfurt IAA 2015 A few of Mercedes-Benz’s most advanced projects and engineering specialties come together for this all-new Concept IAA. The Intelligent Aerodynamic Automobile proves that the self-driving tech shown at CES last year can be applied to a sportier shape than the rolling lounge concept. Secondly, this Concept IAA proves that the billion-dollar new wind tunnel in Sindelfingen is paying dividends. Beyond the obvious crown jewel of a constructor and driver championship in F1, of course! The proportions of the 0.22-cD Concept IAA are mouthwatering in profile and around back. The nose …

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2015 Peugeot FRACTAL Franfurt 2

2015 Peugeot FRACTAL Concept – EVCC Explores 3D-Printed Materials

Updated with Official Details and Photos 9.17.15 Here is a gorgeous bit of unsanctioned, uncaptioned news!  All 25 photos of Peugeot’s upcoming Frankfurt concept car are live a bit early this morning. And they show some sweet, sexy new angles for next-gen Pugs! The Fractal concept is the first near-production application of the blocky, angular and geometric new design ethos seen on the Exalt concept, 2008 DKR racer and a few other concepts recently, including the Peugeot Vision Gran Turismo hypercar. An ultra-wide but very low and lean design, the shape is unlike anything else on the market — and …

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HONDA PROJECT 2&4 POWERED BY RC213V AT FRANKFURT MOTOR SHOW 2015

Best of Frankfurt 2015 – Honda Project 2&4 Concept – Floating Seats Promise Surreal Track Pleasure

Updated 9.16.15 With 35 New Photos Check out the Honda Project 2&4 up close and in detail!  This is one of the most outrageous concepts from Honda in years. Not just Honda, any manufacturer, really. And this is not just some track car, either, as we surmised below. By engineering the 2&4 with outboard seating, the drive experience should also blend the joy of two-wheeling. But with the cornering pace of a four-wheeled vehicle. Not having any panels, doors or bodywork anywhere to your left shoulder, hip or pedals will be a revolution on the road. Far more exposed than …

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2015 Porsche Mission E – See Under Its Pajun-Previewing Panels Via 88 New Images and Animations

Updated 9.16.15 We absolutely crave this machine. Ultra low, wide and expressive — the design is absolutely breathtaking. The engineering and tech down below is arguably even more impressive, however. The flat battery pack below the entire floorplan offers a suite of challenges versus a normal monocoque, but also presents some fascinating new opportunities. And Porsche is clearly relishing the new-found freedom of not finding room for an big engine at either end, or in the middle. The compact drive system allows most of the rulebook on safety, production feasibility and passenger comfort to be torn up. Rewritten for a …

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2015 Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo is Ready to Race

The thrill of leading a race is a core Bugatti trait. Along with stratospheric pricing for any Bugatti new or old, the firm has always built itself on being the fastest. The best. The ultimate in automotive engineering, design and haute couture is about to have a new rival. An in-house rival for the Veyron glory, world records and completed production run. All 450 Veyrons have been configured, customized, personalized and delivered to owners around the world, however. So what is next? This concept Vision Gran Turismo debut today in Frankfurt shows the core speed fundamentals underneath the showcar. This …

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2015 Toyota C-HR Concept 4-Door 5

2015 Toyota C-HR Concept Updated as 4-Door, Production Model En Route for 2017

Toyota’s baby SUV is almost ready for primetime! The second variant on the C-HR theme since Geneva in March of 2015, this new version is a rich metallic silver with production-intent proportions. Versus the original purple C-HR, this latest concept adds a pair of rear doors versus being a soft-road coupe. Mind you, the doors are well-hidden behind an interesting upward bulge of metal in the side surfaces. Other big tweaks to the shape of the body take the C-HR design from completely one-off to production-ready. We saw a similar evolution of the Lexus NX via various concepts, eventually leading …

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Hyundai N 2025 Vision Gran Turismo Frankfurt Debut Photos 14

Hyundai N 2025 Vision GT – Frankfurt Reveal, 55 New Photos + In-Game Action Video

  Updated With Video, Tech Specs (below gallery) and Frankfurt reveal images Well good morning, gorgeous! Hyundai just dropped four teaser images of its upcoming supercar concept: the N 2025 VGT. Smartly using the Gran Turismo concept platform to make an actual, real-world prototype! It is surprising that a few of the Vision GT concepts do not appear more on auto show circuits, or even outside their CAD-CAM design files in some cases. Locking the concepts in the game seems like a missed opportunity for real branding, right? The Hyundai fantasy hypercar will feel very real in the flesh thanks …

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Nissan Gripz Concept

Updated1 with 50 New Pics – 2015 Nissan GRIPZ Concept Rally Racer

This Nissan GRIPZ Concept is out and stunning!  Bold and sculptural lines take on a new level of layered surfacing, unique spoilers and evolved design themes. There is good news and not-so-good news to share, however. The good is that this compact crossover is gorgeous and previews a next generation of Nissan SUVs and crossovers. Everything from the next Frontier to the next Armada may wear designs influenced by the GRIPZ. Nissan calls this new form language ’emotionalgeometry.’ The not-great news is that this concept does not, after all, run a twin-turbo V6 — as we speculated last week. No, …

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Update1 with 25 New Photos – 2015 Audi E-Tron Quattro Concept is Sexy but Pointless EV SUV

Updated with 25 Live Frankfurt PhotosThis is the latest Audi fantasy concept. And it is not named Prologue. Yay! But it is just as exhausting to behold. The E-Tron Quattro is a 100-percent electric SUV concept promising 310 miles of range and AWD traction. In truth, though, the idea of an EV SUV is the most ridiculous thing we can even fathom. Electric vehicles and SUV adventures are anathema. They do not mix. Imagine going skiing from Denver to Vail or Breckenridge, a three hour mountain drive climbing thousands of feet on steep mountain roads. It is snowing, with fresh …

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Mercedes-Benz “Concept IAA” (Intelligent Aerodynamic Automobile)

2015 Mercedes-Benz Concept IAA Is Active Aero Longtail SuperCoupe

  A few of Mercedes-Benz’s most advanced projects and engineering specialities come together for this all-new Concept IAA. The Intelligent Aerodynamic Automobile proves that the self-driving tech shown at CES last year can be applied to a sportier shape than the rolling lounge concept. Secondly, this Concept IAA proves that the billion-dollar new wind tunnel in Sindelfingen is paying dividends. Beyond the obvious crown jewel of a constructor and driver championship in F1, of course! The proportions of the 0.22-cD Concept IAA are mouthwatering in profile and around back. The nose is spooky, but not a big deal. Must work …

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2015 Porsche Mission E 2

3.5s 2015 Porsche Mission E – 600HP Concept Is 4-Door Battery Boxster!?

  A fascinating look inside the future Porsche lineup today via Frankfurt’s IAA. The just-revealed Mission E is absolutely breathtaking. Reviewing the images, my mouth was wide open in giddy shock and delight. Imagine the smooth and flowing bathtub Porsche silhouette, with curves like a 550 Spyder and stance like a super Cayman. The put in a beautifully minimal overhang at either end and four doors under an ultra low and lean roof. The look has every bit of the original Boxster concept’s star power. Running an all-new battery electric powertrain, the vehicle promises great things for future supercoupe buyers. …

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2015 Bugatti Vision GT in 60 Stunning Images – RWD Atmospheric W16 for LeMans 2016?

The thrill of leading a race is a core Bugatti trait. Along with stratospheric pricing for any Bugatti new or old, the firm has always built itself on being the fastest. The best. The ultimate in automotive engineering, design and haute couture is about to have a new rival. An in-house rival for the Veyron glory, world records and completed production run. All 450 Veyrons have been configured, customized, personalized and delivered to owners around the world, however. So what is next? This concept Vision Gran Turismo debut today in Frankfurt shows the core speed fundamentals underneath the showcar. This …

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2017 Volkswagen TIGUAN Is Truly All New in R-Line or Standard Style + Concept GTE PHEV

NOTE: VW clarifies that this the European-market Tiguan. The US model may differ with a caveat like that — a la Passat USA vs Passat EU. Oh my. The only word we can think of? FINALLY. Volkswagen has been in USA reboot mode since 2012. But the results on the showroom floor are exceptionally underwhelming, so far. The boring and tired model range is designed so conservatively, and launch so slowly (1.5-years after Euro rollouts, 2.5-years after concept debut at times), that they feel old upon arrival. And ancient shortly after that.   2015 Volkswagen Golf R and Golf Sportwagen …

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2015 Nissan GRIPZ Concept 3

2015 Nissan GRIPZ Concept – Off-Road Z Car With V6TT!?

Our second teaser look today at the new Nissan Frankfurt concept: GRIPZ. Inspired by two wildly diverse race vehicles, the GRIPZ may or may not preview a next-gen Juke: a rally racing Datsun 240Z and a Specialized road racing bicycle. We initially thought it was definitely a preview of next juke, but now believe (hope?) this GRIPZ might be an off-road Z car. Would this even be possible!? Oh yes. As the original Infiniti FX showed, the Nissan front-midship reardrive platform is exceptionally flexible. Everything from the 350Z to the G35 was built of these all-star bones — so the …

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2015 Honda Project 2&4 Concept – World Premiere of 14000-RPM Baby NSX

  Much as the world (and especially Japanese K-car buyers) love the S660 roadster, the sports potential of that mid-engine roadster is limited. Limited by power caps, safety rules and exhange rates — the S660 is not a global halo car, and definitely not a mini-NSX. What about the latest in Honda engine tech, paired with an open-wheeled racing design fresh from 2025? Now that would be something! Running the ultra-potent RC213V MotoGP bike engine, the Project 2&4 is ultra light and ultra simple. Ultra fresh sci-fi looks are just part of its charm, however. The real thrills will come …

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SALON PRIVE 2015 Mega Gallery Part Three 50

SALON PRIVE 2015 Mega Gallery – Part Three

  Updated 9.7.15 with 111 New Photos   Blenheim palace is rarely upstaged, but LaFerrari, LaFerrari FXX K, McLaren P1 GTR, Aston Martin VULCAN, DBX and DB10, Koenigseggs, Zenvo ST1, Pagani Huayra and a bevy of other hypercars came close. The bubble-top Jaguar won Best-in-Show, but the votes cast obviously skew retro for Concours awards. For hypercar fanatics, the new metal does not come more exotic and exclusive than the 200-plus vehicles on display. Did we mention 2017 Ford GT, GTA Spano, Tramontana, Toroidion, Porsche 918 Spyder, RIMAC concept one, Ferrari’s 488, Cali T and Tailor Made F12? Or how …

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SALON PRIVE 2015 Mega Gallery – Part Two in 168 New Photos

  Updated 9.6.15 with 168 New Photos   Blenheim palace is rarely upstaged, but LaFerrari, LaFerrari FXX K, McLaren P1 GTR, Aston Martin VULCAN, DBX and DB10, Koenigseggs, Zenvo ST1, Pagani Huayra and a bevy of other hypercars came close. The bubble-top Jaguar won Best-in-Show, but the votes cast obviously skew retro for Concours awards. For hypercar fanatics, the new metal does not come more exotic and exclusive than the 200-plus vehicles on display. Did we mention 2017 Ford GT, GTA Spano, Tramontana, Toroidion, Porsche 918 Spyder, RIMAC concept one, Ferrari’s 488, Cali T and Tailor Made F12? Or how …

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SALON PRIVE 2015 Mega Gallery – Aston VULCAN, LaFerrari FXX K and McLaren P1 GTR Headline Massive Hypercar Haul

Wowwwww! Every car who is any kind of supercar was at Salon Prive this week. Blenheim palace is rarely upstaged, but LaFerrari, LaFerrari FXX K, McLaren P1 GTR, Aston Martin VULCAN and DB10, Koenigseggs, Zenvo ST1, Pagani Huayra and a bevy of other hypercars sure tried their hardest. The bubble-top Jaguar won Best-in-Show, but the votes cast obviously skew retro for Concours awards. For hypercar fanatics, the new metal does not come more exotic and exclusive than the 200-plus vehicles on display. Did we mention 2017 Ford GT, GTA Spano, Tramontana, Toroidion, Porsche 918 Spyder, RIMAC concept one, Ferrari’s 488, …

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2015 Renault ALASKAN 17

2015 Renault ALASKAN Concept Previews Upcoming Mid-Size Pickup Truck

Renault just revealed a pretty exciting Frankfurt concept — without a shred of coyness, either. The ALASKAN pickup truck concept is an overt preview of an upcoming Renault to be sold globally. The firm hopes to firm up its market-leading position in the light commercial vehicle segment, which is exploding with dual-use buyers in the UK and dozens of other markets. Tax advantages and the huge functionality of pickup trucks meets modern style, efficiency and tech for these buyers. This idea is nothing new, of course, for the 3-million US pickup sales annually. The vast majority of those trucks are …

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Vision G Coupe Concept

2015 Hyundai Vision G Concept Coupe STUNS In New Photo Set

Updated With 35 New Photos Second time we’ve totally come around to a Hyundai Genesis lately? Yep! This design is really warming up in the latest photos. 2015 Hyundai Vision G Concept Coupe PREVIOUS   Pebble Beach Concours is a huge draw for the wealthiest car lovers worldwide. As such, it is a pretty intense marketing spectacle for selling new cars along with all the best classics on display. But this crowd is seriously snooty, at times. Last year, a KIA K900 display manned with fresh drinks sought to lure people into test drives of the flagship luxury sedan. Over …

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2015-Citroen-Cactus-M-Concept-23a

2015 Citroen Cactus M Concept – Jolly Surf Special Runs Inflatable AirFrame Soft-Top

  French makes, and Citroen in particular, have a strange and unjustified fascination with surf cars. Think of these as part Fiat Jolli with its wicker seats, and part Jeep Wrangler. But with Euro6 emissions and zero practicality. We saw this in the Pluriel and numerous Cacti concepts over the years. The new Cactus M is a far more practical fantasy, if that is possible. Real doors and even a roof! The convertible crossover has fixed A and D-pillars in a sexy woodgrain wrap. The contrast between these organic pillars and the bright Hawaiian blue of the body is certainly …

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2015 Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo World Premiere – 300MPH Fantasy LM Racer Is Close To Reality

The Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo bowed this morning — as a stunning masterpiece, of course! The full-scale prototype will be on the Frankfurt show stand mid-month, where this racing-focused redesign of the Veyron SS Vitesse will fill in for a next-generation Bugatti reveal. A Veyron-shaped machine is currently in hot and cold weather testing at the moment — quashing rumors of a Bugatti SUV or limousine as the Veyron replacement. This shared overall mid-engine look is all that we know from the test cars dubbed Chiron in some auto mags. In this regard, the currently-testing Bugatti is likely to be …

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2015 Peugeot FRACTAL Concept 18

2015 Peugeot FRACTAL Concept – Modular Cabrio Previews 2017 209 and RC-Z Replacement

Here is a gorgeous bit of unsanctioned, uncaptioned news!  All 25 photos of Peugeot’s upcoming Frankfurt concept car are live a bit early this morning. And they show some sweet, sexy new angles for next-gen Pugs! The Fractal concept is the first near-production application of the blocky, angular and geometric new design ethos seen on the Exalt concept, 2008 DKR racer and a few other concepts recently, including the Peugeot Vision Gran Turismo hypercar. An ultra-wide but very low and lean design, the shape is unlike anything else on the market — and is beautifully executed to help the lion …

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2017 KIA Sportage 1

2017 KIA Sportage First Look: GT Line Quad LEDs + Euro Handling Focus

KIA’s push to excel globally is ramping up nicely. Frankfurt, California and Korea-based teams are now aligned to make the most of each area’s strengths. Korea as the lead manufacturing hub/supplier base, Cali as a tech and design center of excellence, and the European R&D division taking a much bigger role in vehicle development. It is a smart foundation for KIA’s move to become Hyundai’s sportier cousin. As it stands, the Kia range is broad but lacks a cohesive, defining nature. The firm has their eyes on BMW. If they can engineer cars to be sold world-wide in one chassis …

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Hyundai N 2025 Vision Gran Turismo Shedding Silk Ahead of Frankfurt Reveal

  Well good morning, gorgeous! Hyundai just dropped four teaser images of its upcoming supercar concept: the N 2025 VGT. Smartly using the Gran Turismo concept platform to make an actual, real-world prototype! It is surprising that a few of the Vision GT concepts do not appear more on auto show circuits, or even outside their CAD-CAM design files in some cases. Locking the concepts in the game seems like a missed opportunity for real branding, right? The Hyundai fantasy hypercar will feel very real in the flesh thanks to a spearheading the “N” brand launch. Hyundai’s “N” is set …

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2016 BAC Mono 2

2016 BAC Mono Scores Prime Placement on Concept Lawn + Configurator

  Updated with Pebble Beach 2015 Photos The BAC Mono had prime placement on the Concept Lawn of Pebble Beach!  The corner spot is cherished thanks to the resort walkway layout. On concours sunday, tens of thousands will see the BAC Mono’s stealthy racecar stance!  Ready to pounce… Same deal for its showing at the Quail. Just a few new photos to share, but worthwhile to see the new 2016 any way possible. Also pumped to share the actual BAC Mono configurator link. After a rendered color post… good to see that wild greens and yellows can be made real. …

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Galpin Fisker Rocket Convertible - Rear 3Q copy

2016 Galpin Fisker ROCKET Speedster Roars Onto Pebble Beach Concept Lawn

The Fisker Rocket makes a big entrance for itself no matter the venue. But the concept lawn at Pebble Beach Concours!? That is a big test of the car’s supercar style, futuristic appeal and up-close inspection of its details! Luckily, the carbon-fiber stunner of a Rocket looks stellar next to priceless hypercars and one-off design bucks. Half the cars on the concept lawn are rollers only, with some moved about atop dollies below fixed wheels and tires! So the conpetition for hearts, eyes and minds is steep. The Rocket Speedster is not just a chop-top of the coupe, to ensure …

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Concept Flashback – 2012 Toyota FT-Bh Envisioned 135-MPG SuperPrius

    Yes yes, it is easy to focus on amazing concept cars for the flashback pieces. But what about the functional stuff? The wild and hideous? EOE coverage here… with a look back at the 2012 Toyota FT-Bh from Geneva of that year. As a sculptural piece, and an achievement in aerodynamics… the FT-Bh is clearly impressive. It is a large wagon variant about the length of the current Prius V, but much lower and wider. What we saw in the FT-Bh was the next step in Toyota hybrid aero styling. By comparison, the Mirai fuel cell production car …

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2015 BMW 3

Update1 – 2015 BMW 3.0 CSL Hommage R Concept Makes Race-Ready Debut at Pebble Beach

Updated 8.16.15 with 22 new photos At this very hour last year, we were limping away from the BMW Pebble Beach mansion after a party celebrating the M5 Jahre 30 Edition and Vision Future Luxury. A day of roaming the Pebble Beach grounds left our feet blistered and bloody — but the Nikon SD card full of fantastic photos. This year, we are covering the events from afar — feet intact and dress shoes safely stowed in closet. It is cars like this new Hommage R concept that make us wish were spending $1000 a day to not drive any …

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2015 Hyundai Vision G Concept Coupe – A Genesis SuperCoupe to Wow Pebble Beach?

Pebble Beach Concours is a huge draw for the wealthiest car lovers worldwide. As such, it is a pretty intense marketing spectacle for selling new cars along with all the best classics on display. But this crowd is seriously snooty, at times. Last year, a KIA K900 display manned with fresh drinks sought to lure people into test drives of the flagship luxury sedan. Over four days, we saw no one take them up on the offer of a drive. The line of K900’s sat optimistic, like pound puppies, with no one claiming them. Hyundai is taking a different tack …

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Concept Flashback - 2009 BRABUS E V12 'One of Ten' 23

Concept Flashback – 2009 BRABUS E V12 ‘One of Ten’ in Streamliner Rear Fenders

Brabus obviously crushes it when making ultra-powerful upgrades of Mercedes and AMG engines. But what do you do when there is just no power left to give? You take drastic aero steps! Exponential growth in drag as speed rises is what makes overall top speed runs so difficult to master, and why we aren’t in 400-mph cars yet. This 2009 BRABUS E-Class uses a time-honored way of lowering drag: put the rear wheels inside fender farings. The result is pretty cool, even wearing the old E63 design as a base point. The tires create a 217-mph top speed for the …

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ARES Modena Renders 4-Pack of 2019 Megabuck SUVS: RR Ghost II, Mulsanne and Spur SUV + G63 Vision

ARES Modena just opened a flagship showroom in London to showcase their fabulous custom supercar upgrades. Nearly a dozen vehicles are in the current atelier customs catalog — fully revamped inside and out. A deeper look at the firm uncovers some serious design talent that goes above and beyond the typical wheels and bodykits of many premium tuners. Flawless and intriguing Rolls-Royce, Bentley and Mercedes-AMG SUV concepts show the depth of skill in the ARES toolbox. They are some of the best looks into the future of these sure-thing SUVs based on the Ghost II and Bentley Flying Spur. The …

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RC F BPM7

2015 Lexus RCF Saatchi BPM Concept Debuts Stunning Biometric Paint

rcf bpm video crop PART TWO: RCF BPM You can tell how excited Lexus is about their new RC Coupe from the global customs, concepts and performance packs galore. The latest wild upgrades to the RC come from opposite sides of the world, but are each pretty exciting in their own right.   RCF BPM The second upgrade is far more cosmetic, but just as exotic. This Australian creation displays a dynamic paint finish based on the driver’s heart rate. As his or her beats-per-minute go up, the electro-luminescent paintwork outside glows in unique cascading patterns. From 100-bpm upward, the …

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2015 Lexus RCF GT Concept Drops 900Lbs For Pikes Peak  11

2015 Lexus RCF GT Concept Drops 900Lbs For Pikes Peak

You can tell how excited Lexus is about their new RC Coupe from the global customs, concepts and performance packs galore. The latest wild upgrades to the RC come from opposite sides of the world, but are each pretty exciting in their own right. The first? An all-new 2015 Lexus RCF GT Concept, which raced up to 14,500 feet the other week at the Pikes Peak International Hillclimb. Billed as a true development prototype, the RCF GT is a race-ready lightweighting exercise. From the factory curb weight for the RCF at 4048-pounds, the RCF GT drops almost 1000 pounds to …

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1952 Jaguar XK120 SuperSonic by Ghia 33-horz

Jet-Age 1952 Jaguar XK120 SuperSonic by Ghia to Cross Block at RM Monterey 2015

Here is a vehicle that would have fit right in to the Atlanta High Museum of Art’s ‘Dream Cars’ exhibit along with the Stratos HF Lancia, Ferrari 512 Modulo, GM rocket cars, and nearly a dozen others. The XK120 SuperSonic was Ghia’s special application of their design aesthetic atop a Jaguar. Freed from the limits of mass production, the panels of the SuperSonic could be as wild as imaginable. Just three were ever completed — and helped inform the eventual look of the E-Type by the end of the 1950s — where they apply some of these ideas in a …

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2010 Red Bull X1 26

2010 Red Bull X1 Launched Gran Turismo As Ultimate MMO R&D Engine

As we look to the future of disruptive, breakthrough innovations in racing — it helps to start with a blank sheet of paper. This is counterintuitive, of course, versus the typical half-step of evolution among all species — racecars included. What is needed to deliver the TV ratings and championship trophies all race series crave? Speed, beauty, drama and technical innovation. There must be balance between outright speed, sound and safety. In short, a revolution is needed to put put racing into hyperdrive. The world championship Red Bull and Vettel pairing from 2010 provided a clever look at priorities of …

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2015 Divergent BLADE Concept 9

700HP, 2.2s 2015 Divergent BLADE Concept – The Tesla of Small-Batch Supercars?

Verrrry interesting new supercar concept to share! Meet the 2015 Divergent Microfactories Blade. The product of a Palo Alto-based tech startup, the Blade highlights the rapidly falling barriers to entering the automotive business. One-time giant fixed costs like factories and industrial presses are on the outs thanks to innovations in material science. While billed by many as the 3D-printed supercar, that does not strictly seem to be the case. Yes, many components in the Blade are produced in an unconventional fashion — but are the truly 3D printed pieces on display, or mostly hidden details? The main chassis evolves from …

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Maserati 975 Ernesto Concept by Maurice Maschmeyer 2

Design Talent Showcase – 2019 Maserati 975 Ernesto Concept by Maurice Maschmeyer

Pasadena College of Art and Design is just the finishing touch on a thorough artist’s education for this month’s student designer, Maurice Maschmeyer Maschmeyer is a native German speaker fluent in English and French as well. An recent Italian immersion will make him a quadruple threat linguistically. In terms of automotive and industrial design vision, Maschmeyer has an interesting eye for beauty and a sweeping, holistic aesthetic that previews next-gen hypercar styles. Graduating in 2017, Maschmeyer will leave California to take his aesthetic and automotive design skills into a major OEM, and onto a street near you a year or …

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2015 Torino Design WildTwelve Concept 3

2015 Torino Design WildTwelve Concept Debuts at Parco Valentino

Exciting supercars galore at this week’s Parco Valentino Gran Premio. A blend of design expo, luxury showcase and car show — this ‘Goodwood South’ just wrapped up a fun week at Turin’s magnificent Valentino Castle. Torino Design revealed a very interesting new concept, the WildTwelve Concept. This is a carbon-chassis exotic with bespoke design and engineering inside and out. A hybrid V12 lives behind the cockpit, yet this machine is in the same size class as the Huracan or Ferrari 488. Primarily a design showcase, the Torino Design WildTwelve is not headed for production any time soon. But it is …

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