French industrial and automotive designer Jonathan Mahieddine has created quite a stir on numerous popular tech-oriented websites with his Honda Fuzo, a futuristic design for a flying car.
The young, creative designer envisions the Fuzo as a lightweight and sturdy vehicle — thanks to extensive use of Kevlar, carbon fiber and carbon nanotubes — that would be capable of traveling through the air at a top speed of 350 mph, thanks to four powerful turbine engines. It would also be able to take off and land vertically, like Britain's famous Harrier jump jet and the U.S. military's own V-22 Osprey. What's more, upon landing, the Fuzo would extend its retractable wheels and tool around town like a normal automobile.
Other elements Mahieddine envisions for the Fuzo are a GPS system that not only guides the car to its predetermined destination but also communicates with other GPS-enabled vehicles for collision avoidance. Additionally, airbags would be placed both inside and outside of the vehicle to both minimize injury to its occupants and cushion the blow to pedestrians or non-GPS-equipped vehicles.
Is this flying car a glimpse at what our future automobiles will be like? Mahieddine tells us that the Fuzo was a design he submitted to Honda last year when he applied for a position with the Japanese automobile manufacturer. Honda — or another car manufacturer — would be wise to hire this visionary; perhaps his bold thinking is just what the automotive industry needs to move toward a brighter future.
Nissan North America today unveiled the NV2500 concept at its Technical Center headquarters in Michigan. The van concept provides a preview of Nissan's entry into the North American commercial market in 2010.
"The Nissan NV2500 is a rolling idea lab - bringing a new perspective to the commercial vehicle segment," said Bruce Campbell, vice president of design for Nissan Design America, which developed the concept.
Measuring in at 5946mm long, 2012mm wide and 2438mm tall, the exterior design is highlighted by a wide grille, pronounced wheelarches, stepped roofline and an integrated solar panel on the roof. The concept also features 'multi-use' doors with integrated lower window cutouts and storage compartments: king-cab style on the driver's side, a 90-degree opening vertical door directly behind the front passenger door, and vertical 60/40 split cargo 'barn' doors at the rear.
Inside, the NV2500 concept features a '3-Zone' interior with a 'wall-less' mobile office/workspace design that includes a computer workstation, fold-down conference table, numerous storage compartments and an awning-style side panel that opens to create a standing outside workshop table. The interior elements have been designed to be multi-functional and highly durable.
Ford's luxury division revealed a surprise new concept at the 2009 NAIAS: the C-segment, six-passenger Lincoln C design study, aimed at upscale urban consumers.
According to Freeman Thomas, director of Ford's Strategic Concepts Group where the concept was created, "the Lincoln C is about efficiency without compromise".
The exterior design was concieved by David Woodhouse and Jeremy Leng, and the interior by Andrei Markevich and Matt Edwards.
I figured this is worth sharing, it bears the same motto I have in my approaches to designs... Efficiency without Compromises...
I leave the videos do the talking... This is "The" Super car that started it all... The heritage behind this car is worth more than the name itself. It is still the same tradition and heritage that makes a future classic.
The Lamborghini Gallardo (Spanish pronunciation: [ɡaˈʎaɾðo]) is a sports car built by Lamborghini. The Gallardo is Lamborghini's most-produced model to date, with over 5000 on first three years of production .[2] Each car costs about $180,000 to $210,000. The car is named after a famous breed of fighting bull. The Spanish word gallardo translates into "gallant," and from Italian into "striking".
'semi-automatic single-clutch sequential manual', which Lamborghini abbreviates to "E-gear". The "E-gear" allows the driver to make shifts much faster than a manual transmission would. The driver shifts up and down via paddles behind the steering wheel, and does not and cannot manually actuate the clutch.
For the MY2006 (launched in late 2005) Lamborghini introduced many changes to the car to counter some criticisms garnered by the press and owners. These were derived from the limited edition Gallardo SE. The exhaust system was changed to a more sporty one (including a flap to make it quieter around town), the suspsension was revised and a new steering rack was fitted, the engine power was increased by 20bhp to a maximum of 520bhp, the biggest change was an overall lowering of the gearing especially in 1st to 5th. The result was a much improved car, it handled and turned in better, sounded better under full throttle and the extra power and lower gearing turned an already fast car into a seriously quick one.
The Audi R8 sports car, launched in early 2007, is based on the Gallardo platform, and uses a 4.2 litre V8 in place of the Gallardo's V10 to avoid competing directly with the Gallardo.
For the 2008 model year, an onboard computer, iPod connectivity with USB, heated mirrors, Q-citura stitching that originally could only be found on the Nera model, and a beige soft-top on the Spyder, were added to the Gallardo.
LP560-4
The Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 was revealed at the 2008 Geneva Auto Show. It is powered by a new 5.2 L V10 with FSI direct injection, generating 552 bhp (411.6 kW) and 398 lb·ft (540 N·m) of torque. The engine is heavily based on the new Audi RS6 V10. Unlike the precedent engine, this engine no longer has split crankpins, so it is not even firing, but Lamborghini says that due to the stiffer crankshaft it has less vibrations than the previous engine. Also, a revised transmission and four wheel drive system as well as a 20 kg (44 lb) weight loss are expected. The 4 at the end of the name refers to the Gallardo's permanent four-wheel-drive system. It also incorporates a new front bumper influenced by the Lamborghini Reventón. Pricing of the Gallardo LP560-4 will start at around US$222,000. In an episode of Top Gear, the LP560-4 managed a lap of 1:19.5, faster than the Ferrari F430 Scuderia, the Nissan GT-R and its counterpart the Lamborghini Murciélago LP640.
In keeping with the brand’s role as a technology flagship for General Motors, the premium V12-powered Cadillac Cien concept car is a befitting icon to usher in the brand’s 100th anniversary in 2002.
The striking, aerodynamic Cien – Spanish for 100 – holistically illustrates Cadillac’s fusion of design and technology in a modern mid-engine, two-seat supercar.
Dramatic Design Cadillac’s design philosophy incorporates dramatic proportions and clean dynamic surfaces. It reflects not only the technology found within the vehicle, but also the technology used to create it.
"With the Cien, we strived to create an ultra-high-performance expression of design and technology," said lead designer Simon Cox, executive director of GM’s Advanced Design Studio for Cadillac in England.
The Cien’s low, sleek appearance, inspired by the latest F-22 Stealth fighter aircraft, has produced a different look and proportion for Cadillac. It further demonstrates the reach of the brand’s identity.
Trapezoidal air inlets are milled into the front-end surface of the Cien, graphically forming Cadillac’s shield-like grille, which incorporates a centrally mounted wreath and crest insignia. These air inlets -- which feed the front-mounted radiators -- are flanked on either side by vertical headlamps, together creating the unmistakable ‘face’ of Cadillac.
In profile, Cadillac’s characteristic crisp-edged feature line runs the length of the body, suggesting tension in the surface, and also adding to the dramatic stance. Another taut line intersects the first, sweeping from the tail through the sail panel to the front of the vehicle. These main feature lines work together to give the Cien a dramatic and unique look, especially when viewed from above.
please wait 1 second(s) for an uncompressed image, or press Ctrl+F5 for original quality pageThe body and monocoque chassis are produced from carbon fiber composite, derived from race car technology, that is both lightweight and strong.
Electronically controlled air inlets and outlets are integrated into the Cien’s body side. These active vents open and close as required for cooling. Also, air is directed to the V12 engine via intakes beneath the two characteristic sail panels.
The Cien’s rear view embodies Cadillac’s distinctive design heritage with fin-like vertical taillights, and a wide center high mounted stop lamp (CHMSL), which spans the rear deck, along with the characteristic centerline crease. The Cien also features an active spoiler that adjusts automatically depending upon the speed of the vehicle, and a removable targa roof panel for open-air motoring.
The blue glass on the Cien was inspired by sport-performance eyewear, enhancing the vehicle’s modern, high-tech look.
Unique Technology Nestled between the 19-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels is a cabin featuring high-tech structural materials and Cadillac’s leading-edge technologies: Night Vision, OnStar, StabiliTrak, Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist and Communiport – which integrates the car’s audio, computing, navigation and wireless communication through hands-free voice activation.
Night Vision uses thermal imaging to help a driver detect potentially dangerous situations well beyond the range of the vehicle’s headlamps. The image is relayed to the driver via a heads-up display projected on the windscreen.
Additionally, the interior of the Cien features a digital instrument display relaying all of the vehicle’s functions, including diagnostics and satellite navigation, to the driver. LCD screens display images from the rearview cameras. A state-of-the-art entertainment system designed to match the car’s unique acoustic characteristics is incorporated into the cockpit.
Dark anodized aluminum accents reflect the Cien’s cool, technical appearance, and contrast the rich classic feel of the Bridge of Weir leather. The interior has a strong vertical theme, revolving around the car's center console, which houses Cien's controls, and the modern, yet classical clock - designed by Bulgari and inspired by their Rettangolo wristwatch. The interior further complements the concept’s lightweight theme, utilizing carbon fiber and aluminum structural elements in a design that combines luxury and performance.
Powertrain please wait 1 second(s) for an uncompressed image, or press Ctrl+F5 for original quality page Cadillac Cien’s 7.5-liter, V12 powerplant, which is visible through a clear window in the decklid, is a new concept engine from GM Powertrain named the Northstar XV12. The all-aluminum, dual overhead cam (DOHC) four-valve V12 engine generates 750 horsepower and 450 lb.-ft. of torque, yet it meets the packaging requirements and fuel economy standards of a V8.
The Northstar XV12 concept engine features several technological advancements over today’s V8 engines, including: GM’s Displacement on Demand technology, which allows the engine to run seamlessly on six cylinders at times to maximize fuel savings; direct injection gasoline combustion system for increased engine power, improved fuel economy and reduced emissions; and a combined starter generator.
The Cien is fitted with a semi-automatic transmission, controlled by Formula 1-inspired column-mounted electronic paddles.
Unmistakably Cadillac Drawing on 100 years of rich Cadillac heritage, Cien honors the brand’s tradition of bringing innovative technology and trend-setting design to the luxury segment.
During its first century of leadership, Cadillac has claimed a number of industry ‘firsts’ and major engineering advancements including the introduction of electric self-starters, significant improvements in engine technology and the development of sophisticated suspension systems.
The same emphasis on bold, trend-setting design that has set Cadillac apart among luxury marques in the past is the essence of the Cien and of Cadillac as it enters its second 100 years.
"The Cien concept combines V12 power and dramatic proportions in a striking, modern design that is unmistakably Cadillac," said Cox. "This concept is a most appropriate medium to celebrate Cadillac’s past, present and, above all, it’s future."
The Climax is a British mid engine two seat open sports car that can run on Bio-ethanol. Inspiration for the design came from the legendary Cooper Climax F1 car of the 50’s and is drawing on Britain’s vast Motor Sport Heritage while keeping a firm eye to the future. It is not a retro car, it is a modern Super Car designed with the discerning enthusiast in mind. It is revolutionary and has been designed to set a new standard in the niche vehicle sports car market. The Climax is bespoke and exclusive, quintessentially British, hand-finished, with excellent performance and superb handling. It uses the latest generation of Subaru’s highly respected power train driving the rear wheels, the chassis is constructed from lightweight aluminium castings and extrusions with bolt on sub frames to make it versatile and easy to repair. The bodywork is handcrafted out of aluminium and will also be offered in Carbon fibre. Customers will also be able to chose engine and gearbox options, colour, interior and “jewellery” options. The Climax is all about the driving experience, the deliberately designed out roof evokes memories of classic Le Mans type race cars, complete with flip up aero – screens, detachable F1 style steering wheel with all switches to hand, hard retractable tonneau cover and a Climax Control that can boost the cars performance. Concept Climax Ltd have reinvented the British Sports Car, offering a unique driving experience in an environmentally friendly vehicle.
This is merely my attempt to promote car culture to anyone who might come across this blog. In my early childhood, I was immersed into a car culture not typical to most Pinoys.
My passion for Automobiles began at age 7, since then, I have been drowning myself into the automobile world, design wise. I keenly observe the shapes, geometries and contours of cars, wonder and analyze why they where shaped like so.
As I grew up, I am able to amass a collection of Cars, from 59 Cadillac Convertibles to Dodge Chargers as well as Replicars Lamborghini, Vipers and Ferrari's. I even have rare cars in my stable. All of these were not restored or partially restored only. The main objective was to immerse myself further in understanding the design philosophies behind their shape, symmetry, size, proportioning and design logic.
It was an expensive self taught degree, but it was worth it. The degree of understanding I gained out of this hobby is better than any design school can offer. Most of the students in the Industrial Design College will never get to see or touch the cars I have mentioned above.
They may have theoretical ideas but the feel and passion to this culture - requires a lot more than mere text book romance.
Please allow me to share with you the choice cars I feel that will follow the steps and success of the golden classics of the automobile world.
Please bookmark this blog as I update it from time to time with future cars or concepts that I feel will make it in the market.
