Fisker Karma (2010) Plug-in Hybrid Sports Sedan

At the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, Fisker Automotive are set to reveal their advanced aluminium space frame which is to feature in the stunning Fisker Karma plug-in hybrid electric sports sedan. The Fisker Karma, the world’s first premium plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, will make its Chicago debut at the Chicago Auto Show February 12-21. With the Karma, American automaker Fisker Automotive (www.fiskerautomotive.com) proves that with eco-friendly cars you can enjoy beautiful, distinctive design and thrilling performance with a clear conscience.

Fisker Karma (2010) Plug-in Hybrid

2010 Fisker Karma Preview – 2008 Detroit Auto Show: Just this morning we attended a press conference held by a well-known Italian luxury car company, one that sells fewer than 10,000 cars annually and employs executives who tout the brand’s exclusivity. Maybe they haven’t heard about Fisker Automotive, and in particular, the 2010 Fisker Karma plug-in hybrid.

Despite a projected annual production run of approximately 15,000 units, the Karma comes much closer to the true definition of exclusive thanks the plug-in’s first-to-market status, relatively affordable $80,000 base price, lithium ion battery technology, full-electric range of 50 miles, and a gas/electric fuel economy rating of 100 mpg. That kind of exclusivity will be available from Fisker in late 2009.

The 403hp, four-door Karma plug-in hybrid can go zero to 60mph in six seconds and has a top speed of 125mph, but it can still achieve an annual average of more than 100mpg and drive tailpipe-emission free. Features include a sculpted body, 22-inch wheels, trunk space for two sets of golf clubs, a 10.2-inch haptic touchscreen control center, reclaimed wood trim and an available animal-free interior trim package.

"Our top priorities when we designed the Karma's aluminium space frame were that it have extremely high torsional rigidity and could be easily modified to accept Karma model variants," explained Henrik Fisker, CEO, Fisker Automotive. "We benchmarked some of the world's best cars to create an all-new space frame that will deliver an exhilarating experience behind the wheel." A super-structural tunnel running down the car's centerline acts as the Karma's backbone. The spaceframe is designed around the car's unique Q-DRIVE series-hybrid powertrain.

Behind the rear-drive Karma’s taut skin is a lightweight chassis that places the battery pack in the vehicle’s center to enhance driving dynamics and safety. Fisker says its plug-in hybrid sports sedan will hit 60 mph in 5.8 seconds and travel up to 50 miles on electric power alone; with a supplemental four-cylinder gasoline engine that powers a large generator, its range will extend to 620 miles while returning 100 mpg. When plugged into a 110-volt household outlet, the Karma fully recharges in eight hours, using a 220-volt outlet will get the job done in three hours, and a solar roof panel aids with trickle charging while the Karma is parked.

The Karma is a series Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) powered by a lithium-ion battery and an efficient 2.0-liter range-extending gas engine. The engine only turns a generator, which sends electricity to two electric traction motors attached to the rear differential. The Karma has a 300-mile range with a full battery charge and a full tank of gas. The first 50 miles are electric-only and emission free.

The battery can be recharged in less than six hours using the same 220v household current that powers some major appliances. The Karma can also be charged using standard 110v power from any electrical outlet.

Fisker Automotive’s first car is the Fisker Karma, the world’s first production Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV). The four-door Karma will be followed by two variants and a second line of lower cost, high volume premium green automobiles by 2012.

2011 New Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet includes AIRCAP® with AIRSCARF®

The highly appealing and emotionally charged Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet is the latest addition to the successful E-Class line-up. The open-top two-door model, which went on sale on 11 January 2010, features a classic fabric soft top, making for a stylistically pure cabriolet feeling. Viewed from the side, the new model is an intriguing proposition - with its clear proportions and a flawless cabriolet silhouette.

2011 New Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet

In keeping with the motto "four seasons, four personalities", all-year-round suitability was right at the top of the developers' list of priorities. With the new E-Class Cabriolet, the cabriolet season lasts the whole year because, while many cabriolets tend to disappear from the roads of Western Europe in the autumn, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet (length/breadth/height: 4698/1786/1402 mm) provides driving pleasure and comfort whether the roof is open or closed.

2011 New Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet

The soft top can be opened and closed fully automatically within 20 seconds - even when driving at speeds of up to 40 km/h. The cabriolet roof is stowed in a special compartment behind the rear panel. A retractable cover separates the soft top compartment from the boot area; it must be closed in order to close the soft top. If the roof is to remain closed, the cover can be slid rearwards, in which case the boot capacity is increased by 90 litres to 390 litres. A through-loading feature is included as standard for the new Cabriolet, as is EASY-ENTRY - a manually operated entry and exit aid for the rear passengers.

2011 New Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet

The powerplants for the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet are equally innovative: the new direct-injection diesel and petrol models combine efficiency with effortlessly superior power delivery. The exemplary, low fuel consumption has not only been achieved because of the new engines, but also with a number of practical measures. These include on-demand activation of the steering and fuel pumps, the use of tyres with low rolling resistance and an alternator control system which takes account of the current driving situation and the vehicle's electrical power requirements, plus the crucial factor of outstanding aerodynamics. The Cabriolet's cd figure of 0.28 is the best in its class, marking a continuation of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class success story in the field of aerodynamics.

2011 New Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet

In 1989, Mercedes-Benz introduced a world premiere in the shape of a draught-stop for the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, followed in 2004 by the AIRSCARF® neck-level heating system to further enhance comfort in open-top models. Now comes another world-first: the AIRCAP® automatic draught-stop, which can be activated at the push of a button, greatly reduces turbulence in the interior of the new Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet, creating a sea of warm air. It is also much easier to implement and use than conventional draught-stops: there is no tricky installation, the two individual rear seats remain free and the Cabriolet's flowing side lines remain uninterrupted. AIRCAP® is therefore a classic Mercedes innovation: functional, comfort-enhancing, elegant and safe.

2011 New Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet

AIRCAP® consists of two components: a wind deflector that can be extended by around six centimetres with a net in the windscreen frame and a draught-stop between the rear seats.

2011 New Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet

As well as enhancing occupant comfort and wellbeing, the reduction in draught when AIRCAP® is activated (it can be activated at speeds of up to 160 km/h and remains in use right up to the car's top speed) reduces the interior noise level - so passengers in all seats find it far easier to communicate.

2011 New Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet

The Cabriolet Comfort package includes AIRCAP® with AIRSCARF®. This patented system functions like an invisible scarf, which warms the occupants' head and neck areas. AIRSCARF® is integrated into the backrests of the front seats and provides warm air through outlets in the head restraints.

2011 New Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet

The Mercedes engineers have modified this unique innovation specifically for the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet: in this model, an adjustment wheel pivots the outlet nozzle upwards and downwards by a total of 36 degrees over and above the head restraint height adjustment, meaning that the driver and front passenger can enjoy the unique neck-level heating regardless of how short or tall they are.

2010 Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid Sports Car Concept

This is the 2010 Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid, a new car that made its debut today at the Geneva Motor Show which aims to demonstrate how a hybrid car can have breathtaking performance from a highly efficient propulsion system. Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid is a full hybrid vehicle, which comes with twin electric motors.

2010 Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid

The new 414E Hybrid uses a high performance drivetrain system consisting of twin motors each delivering 204 hp (152 kW or 207 ps – this inspired the name 414E) and 400 Nm (295 lbft) of torque to each wheel via independent, single speed, reduction transmissions. With these numbers the car can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.0 seconds.

2010 Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid

The Evora 414E Hybrid is a concept car that is equipped with a 7-speed transmission and two drive settings, including Eco and Sport. The vehicle is mainly maid in a copper color, which is used not only in the exterior but also interior of the concept, including the instrument panel, seat covers and brake calipers.

2010 Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid

The new car can be charged via a typical household plug or the car’s onboard generator. An additional range is provided by the Lotus Range Extender engine, an optimised 1.2 litre, three-cylinder engine capable to deliver (48 ps/47 hp). The Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid has a total range of 480 km (300 miles) and can be driven as a fully-electric car for about 56 km or 35 miles.

2010 Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid

Also, the car features HALOsonic Internal and External Electronic Sound Synthesis technologies from Lotus and Harman International, which means that it will provide sound contouring within the cabin and improve pedestrian safety outside the vehicle. The car comes with a sports mode that can simulate a 7 speed, paddle shift transmission combining exceptional driver involvement for a hybrid sports car.

2010 Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid

Dr Robert Hentschel, Director of Lotus Engineering said: “Innovation has always been at the heart of Lotus and is needed now more than ever. The Evora 414E Hybrid is the perfect demonstration of Lotus Engineering’s core competencies: lightweight architectures, efficient performance, electrical and electronics integration and driving dynamics. 

2010 Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid

The technology demonstrator represents an encapsulation of the advanced technologies that Lotus Engineering continues to develop to overcome the current environmental challenges facing the automotive industry and showcases the future direction that the sector is taking and why Lotus Engineering is perfectly placed to lead the technological development in this area.” 

2010 Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid

iRACER Electric Race Car Westfield Sports Cars Concept

As the exhibitors at Geneva report the Westfield iRacer represents 99% of the production model. Designed by Elliott Hawkins, a graduate from the Royal College of Arts vehicle design course, the iRacer has the pulse of electric power running through its veins. A number of materials including aluminum and recyclable plastics were used for body construction.

iRACER Electric Race Car Westfield Sports Cars Concept

Westfield iRacerReduced fuel consumption and lower emissions are what’s seen a lot these days on the latest production models and concept vehicles. But don’t think that performance will lag for these green cars.

iRACER Electric Race Car Westfield Sports Cars Concept

One prime example is Westfield Sportscars’ iRACER, an all-electric race car created to win competitions. The car’s designer is Elliott Hawkins, a graduate from the world renowned Royal College of Arts vehicle design course. Westfield Managing Director, Julian Turner said that the concept has a bold look and is “99% representative” of the production vehicle. The iRACER uses the following materials: composites, aluminum, recyclable plastics and a stretched lycra skin over an aluminum framework. As a result, the car’s body is lightweight, low-cost, and aerodynamically efficient. Project Manager, Paul Faithfull, said that some materials (like fabric) has major benefits for racing but is obviously unfit for road use. When in a race, it’s of value that the bodywork can change in a few minutes, and that changing the color and sponsors, as well as repairs can be done quickly.

iRACER Electric Race Car Westfield Sports Cars Concept

Created in conjunction with project partners Potenza Technology, Delta Motorsport, RDM Automotive and Coventry University, the iRACER has a 40 kilowatt YASA motor directly turning each rear wheel, which together are said to be good for 200 horsepower at peak output and provide 737 pound feet of torque (1000 Newton meters). Race range is thought to be 50 to 60 miles. As well as a bit of wind tunnel tuning, the team plans to develop independent power delivery to the wheels in an effort to improve performance on the track. Perhaps more controversially, they also intend to devise a new noise generation system that might "give the iRACER aural drama to match both its looks and performance."

iRACER Electric Race Car Westfield Sports Cars Concept

"The use of materials such as fabrics has limited scope for road use, but has major benefits for racing," says Paul Faithfull, iRacer project manager. "Imagine being able to change your bodywork in a matter of minutes, with a new body stretched over the framework, changing the colour, sponsors or just effecting rapid repairs. It is also extremely light compared to almost all alternative materials."

iRACER Electric Race Car Westfield Sports Cars Concept

The concept weighs 600kg (1,323 lbs), is 3.6 metres long and is rear-wheel-driven. Its Lithium Phosphate battery helps the motor make 80kW (109 PS) and 1,000Nm at the wheels. The 0 - 60mph sprint is said to take under 5 seconds and top speed is limited to 177km/h. Westfield reckons a race range of between 80km and 97km (50 and 60 miles) is possible.

iRACER Electric Race Car Westfield Sports Cars Concept

The iRacer will make its racing debut at the EV Cup one-make race car series launching in 2011.

E-Commuter design by Ho-young Joo, Soo-han Cho and JinSeok Song Solar-powered Vehicle

The team members, all majoring in industrial design, belong to the CLOTHO, which is a transportation design study group at SNUT (Seoul National University of Technology). We always try to challenge many international competitions for enhancing our talent.

The brainchild of designers Ho-young Joo, Soo-han Cho and JinSeok Song, the E-Commuter is what the streets of today will need for a green tomorrow. The concept has been designed to reduce air pollution that is caused by running vehicles on conventional fossil fuel engines. Ho-young Joo, 25, is now working in his internship at LG Electronics. He is a two-time finalist for Michelin Challenge Design. Soo-han Cho, 23, is currently doing his military requirement.

E-Commuter Solar-powered Vehicle

This next-generation concept vehicle will run clean on electricity, which will be provided by onboard solar panels. These solar panels will automatically track the sun and align themselves for maximum solar exposure. Energy generated by these panels will be stored in a battery.

Suffering extreme traffic congestion, the number of people using cars to commute is increasing. The exhaust from vehicles causes serious air pollution and deteriates the supply of fossil fuel. The next generation car should be a complete electric vehicle over the hybrid concept by using sustainable energy sources.

E-Commuter Solar-powered Vehicle

E-Commuter uses two kinds of cells. Using Photovoltaic power generation to charge the upper solar cell, and the insufficient energy of E-commuter can be supplied by Outer-battery. The outer-battery of E-commuter can easily attach/detach and be moved because of the wheels. E-commuter uses its outer-battery when you are in long-trip or it cannot generate energy so much because of the low amount of sunshine. The wheels of E-commuter uses the theory of repulsive-type maglev float by using the magnetic power. The wheel has no friction, it absorbs vibration and makes the electric-efficiency better. Thin slick tires aimed at the bicycle using 700c wheels show great energy efficiency in traveling through urban districts.

E-Commuter Solar-powered Vehicle

If the solar battery depletes and is not able to recharge itself, the vehicle also has a backup battery that can be recharged from a wall socket. The wheels of the E-Commuter absorb vibration and reduce friction for better efficiency. The designers believe that the E-Commuter will be able to hit a speed of up to 120mph, without clogging the streets with toxic smoke.

2010 Hyundai i-Flow Concept Diesel-Electric Hybrid Powertrain

The Geneva Motor Show is quite generous in reveals this year, considering the trend of the automotive industry. Hyundai has just presented its new i-Flow Concept on the catwalk, continuing the company’s statement of developing a the “fluidic design”. As Hyundai continues to branch out into new segments, its European operation, which until recently has focused primarily on small cars, is debuting the Hyundai i-flow concept in Geneva. It's a vision of a coming Hyundai that's expected to do battle in Europe's larger D-segment.

2010 Hyundai i-Flow Concept Diesel-Electric Hybrid Powertrain

The i-flow is the latest concept to wear Hyundai's "fluidic sculpture" design language, and the large D-segment sedan wears it well. Hailing from Hyundai's European Design Headquarters in Russelsheim, Germany, the i-flow incorporates lightweight materials and solar cells from supplier BASF meant to reduce weight and increase energy efficiency.

2010 Hyundai i-Flow Concept Diesel-Electric Hybrid Powertrain

The i-flow is fitted with Hyundai's first-ever diesel hybrid drivetrain, in which a 1.7-liter diesel engine with dual-stage turbocharging is mated to Hyundai's Blue Drive hybrid system and a new six-speed dual-clutch gearbox. As we understand it, the i-flow is a parallel hybrid, allowing it to be powered by its lithium-polymer battery pack and electric motors, the diesel engine or a combination of both. Combined with a slippery 0.25 coefficient of drag, the i-flow will reportedly return 78.4 mpg and emit 0.30 grams of CO2 per mile.

2010 Hyundai i-Flow Concept Diesel-Electric Hybrid Powertrain

The new lines give an elegant avant-garde look, helping in the same time in reducing the CO2 emissions to 85g/km and improving its aerodynamics. In collaboration with chemical company BASF, Hyundai produced its first eco-friendly diesel hybrid powertrain, using high-technologies and next-generation materials. The new i-Flow combines perfectly the concept of a little-big car, as it shows a sporty looks but also provides quite enough space due to the use of a minimalistic design for the seats and center console.

2010 Hyundai i-Flow Concept Diesel-Electric Hybrid Powertrain

The high-tech engine presents the new 1.7-litre engine fitted with 2-stage turbocharging connected to a Lithium Ion-Polymer battery for a more efficient consumption, especially when driven i-flow’s six-speed, dual-clutch transmission. The i-Flow technology is a test bed for new energy harvesting ideas, ranging from flexible solar panel roofing to a thermo-electric generator which uses exhaust heat to produce power. More news of Hyundai’s star cars will be published in advance of the show and will be available on the stand.  The company’s press conference will take place in Hall 1 at 14:15 (CET) on Tuesday 2nd March  (2010).