Transportation Design, Concepts, Sketches, Ideas, etc!!

[ToofaneBatameezi]

Some slight adjustments have been made on this thread. From now on All
"MY OWN" as well as from the conceptual world shall be followed on this thread!! Since there are no thread PW regarding Design, Sketching, Ideas(Building) or Future!!


Design will save the world as some say!!

MY SKETCHES!!

To view more of my sketches, follow the link below:
Transportation Design, Concepts, Sketches, Ideas, etc!!

[ToofaneBatameezi]

h2When Car Designers Go Wild: Bugatti Vera Kettle/h2




Bugatti Tea Kettles? Hot. (Pun intended)


These Vera Kettles are the Veyrons of the hot beverage world, costing over $200 each and feature digital doohickies and thermal control systems that prevent your coffee or tea from getting too hot (or too cold).


And did we mention that they look freakin’ cool? Cause they do. Way.


The Vera Electric Kettle offers electronic control for all functions to achieve desired temperature (between 113 and 212°F) for your morning cuppa. From the handle side, the kettle looks a bit like an BSG Cylon, with a screen embedded in the handle which displays temperature control and a clock that shows current time and offers a self timer for planned coffee or tea breaks.


Not yet available, but coming out in the end of September for a price you'd associate with the brand, Bugatti: $300.


More images after the break.














[via Unplggd]

[ToofaneBatameezi]

h2Solar Roadways to Prototype First Ever Solar Road Panel/h2


Ever drive on the highway and think about how much solar energy is wasted on the asphalt below? Apparently, so has Solar Roadways. The startup was awarded a $100,000 U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) grant this week to prototype its Solar Road Panel–an energy-generating panel made from solar cells and glass that is meant to replace petroleum-based asphalt on roads and in parking lots.

The panels, designed by Solar Roadways founder Scott Brusaw, contain embedded LED lights that might eventually act as a “smart” system, providing travel lines as well as timely warnings to drivers about roadblocks and wildlife up ahead. At the same time, embedded heating elements in the panels could prevent snow and ice from building up on the road.


Once a prototype is complete, Solar Roadways still has a long ways to go before its technology is commercialized. But if and when it is, Brusaw estimates that covering the entire U.S. interstate highway system with his 12′ by 12′ panels could fulfill the country’s energy needs (based on each panel producing 7.6 kilowatt hours of power each day).


It’s an expensive plan–each panel costs approximately $6,900–but a single four-lane, one-mile road plastered with Solar Road Panels could provide enough power to take 500 homes off-grid. And potentially, the panels could even create an “intelligent highway that will double as a secure, intelligent, decentralized, self-healing power grid which will enable a gradual weaning from fossil fuels.” A lofty goal, to be sure, but one that is worth keeping in mind–especially now that the government has given Solar Roadways the go-ahead.


+ Solar Roadways

[ToofaneBatameezi]

Blast from the past; One of my favorite concepts! Thought many of you might have not seen it hence, here it is:

h1Lamborghini Embolado/h1




The Lamborghini

Embolado is an extreme sportscar characterized by an aggressive design with sharp and steady lines. The author is Luca Serafini, an Industrial Design final year student at University of Parma, Italy.


The project idea came from the designer's dream to work as a designer for Lamborghini; a very natural desire, since he lives in Modena, just a few kilometers away from Sant'Agata Bolognese.





As Luca Serafini explains "the inspiration came from the research of a Spanish festival, named "Embolado Bull" (or Toro Embolado).


"The choice of the name was the first step towards the creation of this concept".


"Based on the Gallardo dimensions, I started to define the main lines in a very marked and steady way, giving the front end taurin forms".


The movement of the side surfaces gives the car a natural sleek appearance. All the design is based on the "aggressivity" theme.


"After the recent launch of the Gallardo Superleggera, in order to make a tribute to it, I have adapted the Embolado Concept basing on the aestethic modifications of the new model, with some post-process in Photoshop."


The Embolado was modeled in Rhino; the final renderings were created in 3DStudio MAX, with some post-process in Photoshop.










h2About the Designer/h2

Luca Serafini is currently in his final year of the Industrial Design Course at the University of Parma, Italy.


For three years he participated in the chassis design of the Formula Student racing car, in partnership with the University of Modena.


Among his professional experiences are collaborations with the Milan tecnico and with car cutomization projects. He is starting a career as a freelance designer.

h3Contact details:/h3

• Online portfolio: http://sefsdesign.deviantart.com/li
• e-mail: sefsdesign@gmail.com /li

[ToofaneBatameezi]

h3My Car, It’s “Alive!”/h3



As we move forward in our increasingly mass produced and technological world, there is a certain nostalgia for what many critics say we’ve lost. We just need to find new ways to personalize and humanize the products we create. The Equilibrium (EQ) car uses artificial intelligence to engage us by generating the illusion of life and individual personality. Tho the cars are mass produced, no two are alike.




Lets close our eyes. Envisage a high tech world not too distant in the future. It’s morning and you’re getting ready for work; a day like any other. You step in the garage where a dark, almost black figure rests in the corner. As you approach it illuminates from within, pulsing like the slow rhythmic pace of breathing. The vehicle is alert, it senses and recognizes your presence. It knows you’re the owner and goes into standby mode. The door handles reveal themselves to you. The floating seats adjust, comfortably cradling your body. As you place both hands on the steering wheel, biometric sensors activate the vehicle into full power mode. You’re ready to go.


The idea is intriguing and not difficult to imagine. For years automotive designers have thought of ways to create experiences within a car to simulate a living object. Personalization is key to creating an emotional attachment with anything inanimate. The Equilibrium takes it a step further by utilizing some key technologies not yet invented but it’s only a matter of time.


Take for example the exterior surface - covered in what the designer dubs “rubber metal.” Thanks to nanotechnology, it’s flexible and rigid. The wheels are even covered and steering is achieved by manipulating the material to pull on the center axis of each wheel hub. On the outside it gives the vehicle a smooth continuous form uninterrupted by seams. The material can even move from opaqueness to transparency, hinting to the owner what’s inside waiting as they approach.


Two electric engines are located in the rear wheels for space efficiency and for weight distribution. All interior elements float by using a connection to a center frame. This creates a light and spacious expression. At the same time it provides a feeling of safety for the passengers; a strong central object for protection.


The battery pack is located in the front of the vehicle for weight distribution. To cool the batteries, air flows from a front air intake along the batteries and through the frame to an air outlet on the top.


The seats consist of two parts; an external ‘shell’ and soft inner skin. The skin is made of Electro Active Polymers, and adapts to the drivers body. Electricity can make the surfaces stretch and change shape.


The steering wheel has heartbeat sensors to activate the vehicle from stand-by to full power as soon as it detects the driver’s heartbeat. This has a safety element as well. As the driver gets tired while driving, the vehicle will detect a lower heart rate and react by blowing fresh air inside. But in more serious situations (heart attack) it can automatically bring the vehicle to standstill; park it along the road and send out an alarm message. By satellite, the exact location of the vehicle can be traced.




















Designer: Bob Romkes

[ToofaneBatameezi]

h2IBM’s Lithium-Air Battery ‘High Concept’ Car/h2




I think they might be still working on it as I didn't see anyone offering test drives.


But, if some of the research being conducted today pans out, this hunk of lucite could represent the future of electric cars.


IBM is one of a number of companies touting lithium-air batteries as an alternative to standard lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-air batteries contain lithium ions, but instead of having the lithium ions shuttle back and forth between a cathode and an anode, lithium-air and zinc-air batteries generate power by exposing metal and an electrolyte to oxygen. This oxidizes the metal and releases energy (see Electricity From Air and Zinc? A Growing Chorus Says Yes). This model is being shown at the Almaden Institute taking place at IBM's Almaden lab this week.


In the end it could potentially lead to energy density that's 10 times better than current energy densities. Energy density, which effectively measures a battery's capacity to store electrons, remains a major problem for lithium-ion batteries in cars. (IBM's material science division has created membranes for lithium-air batteries. Big Blue wants to license and/or sell that: It likely won't become a battery maker.)


The note on the concept car says it could go 500 miles on a charge and provide 120 kilowatt hours of energy capacity. Nissan's Leaf will have an energy capacity of 24 kilowatt hours.


Source: Greentech!!

[ToofaneBatameezi]

Hamari laydess to mascara or lip-ishtick sey bahyr hee nahin aker dey rahe hayn!! *sigh..
h1Ladies daily driver concept car: Exotic style Volvo YCC design by women for women/h1




Gentlemen, take a back seat (or be ready to ride shotgun) on this one... because this motorsports history story is for the girls.


Have you seen or heard about the new Volvo YCC at any of your professional conferences or during any of your recent beauty shop and spa manicure or pedicure conversations? It's a concept car designed by women, for women -- and as a car designed for the ladies, is sure to inspire a new kind of male envy (this time of the car variety)?


Take a sneak peek retro look at the new Volvo Barbie car that is not in pink and is absolutely not girlie. In theory, the cr represents a daring design concept that was either way ahead of or is far behind the times [depending on your perspective about making a dream car that appeals to women drivers a modern day reality].


The biggest surprise? This forward thinking car made it's debut and won design awards back in 2006. Now, it's making headlines again because of it's unique and clever design.

















NEW VOLVO YCC IS A CONCEPT CAR DESIGNED BY WOMEN FOR WOMEN DRIVERS


Transportation writer John Peige of the Baltimore Sun had the good fortune to get up close and personal with the new Volvo YCC's marketing team at a recent automotive convention, and this is what he had to say about the history of the company's new "female-oriented, female design" automotive project:

Turns out, one car company has invested millions in building a car just based on what women want. It is the Volvo YCC concept car built by designed by women for women.

Designed by a team comprised entirely of women, the goal of the YCC (Your Concept Car) was to build a vehicle that satisfied the wants and needs of independent-minded female professionals. Not only build it, they are more than willing to talk about it. To that end, the YCC incorporates several innovative features that you're not likely to find on any of today's current cars.

Of paramount importance to the YCC team was easy access, hence the automatically activated gull-wing doors and fold-down side sills that make for an easy step in. Once inside, the YCC was designed to automatically adjust itself to the driver's optimal seating position for better vision and comfort. Another feature that grabs attention is the YCC's lack of a conventional hood. The idea is that the driver would never need to bother looking inside as the YCC constantly monitors itself and alerts the driver when service is needed. There are also run-flat tires and easy-clean paint that resists dirt and debris to reduce time spent at the car wash.

The designers of the YCC decided to use the interior as a means of self-expression as the seats and floors can be outfitted with a choice of eight different mix-and-match patterns. Since most women say that they carried bags behind the seats, the second-row chairs stay folded up for added cargo room. There's also a sizable center console with multiple storage compartments that can accommodate everything from a handbag to a laptop. Glance at the dashboard and the only information you see is speed, miles to empty and direction as all other information is consolidated into a central console to reduce unnecessary distractions.

Why did Volvo spend millions on such a project? One answer is because women represent an important market segment for Volvo. In the U.S., Volvo Car's largest global market, women buyers, account for 54 percent of Volvo's sales while in Europe women account for less than 20 percent of sales. According to Volvo research, female buyers in the premium car segment, where Volvo competes, want the same things as men when it comes to performance, prestige and style. But the research also showed that women want more than a safe, stylish car that goes fast.

Volvo surveys indicated that women want a car that has plenty of storage, is easy to park, has good visibility, is easy to get in and out of, can be personalized and requires minimal maintenance.

A GENTLEMAN'S REACTION TO THE DARING DESIGN CONCEPT


As a transportation journalist, John Peige is a gem to work with if you are in the automotive business. Not only does he write his columns from the perspective of an average person NOT involved with the sales and marketing of cars (making him a trustworthy source for an accurate, no frills assessment of each vehicle), he writes with an authoritative dialectic tone because he has had the god fortune of being able to take a variety of vehicles to on the track and home as part of his professional job description as an auto review writer.


Peige was very impressed with the ladies' ingenuity designing this car, and says the level of blending the practical with the exotic not only took him by surprise as a vehicle, but also as art. To read his full review of the product, visit his new column online at www.car-data.com. Watch the video below to meet the women who designed the Volvo YCC and to learn more about the quasi-exotic concept car.


MEET THE WOMEN BEHIND THE VOLVO YCC

[ToofaneBatameezi]

h3Biggest Hugest Tricycle/h3




The biggest hugest tricycle in the whole world has been conceptualized by designer Randall Marin. It is a bit different from what you might think of as a tricycle; that being either the tiny red tricycle for children or the giant tri-motorcycle you see in parades most often. This is made for urban transport and exercise - with it’s main aim being gaining attention, motivating others to get exercise too.

Dimensions:
1800 x 1500 x 1100 mm.


Maximum capacity:
180 Kg.
Was simulated on SAP program.

Marin aims for this project to be “low material vs. high volume” and all of the pieces are recyclable. The “Triclo” is offered in a variety of lovely colors (as you can see below) and is aimed at all those who wish to stand out while getting lots of exercise.


Designer: Randall Marin

[ToofaneBatameezi]

The next three posts are dedicated to the Godzilla, Both in terms of design an engineering; its an Icon..A living legend!! Do read about it.


I had read this quite some time back but since no one gives much daam about (copy/pasting)or more appropriate word would be sharing!! So here ya go...

h2History of the Nissan GT-R: Exterior Design/h2




Most of us know of the GT-R Concept car and the GT-R Proto but not many of us have seen the other GT-R designs which made it all the way from the drawing board to scale model or even full scale mock-up stage before being rejected. A design competition was held and entries were accepted from Nissan’s global designers. About 80 submissions were received and a 100 strong team of designers was put to work to get it to the final stages. Leading these designers was a team of 6 including Kazutoshi Mizuno and Carlos Ghosn himself.





The design process was both innovative and successful for Nissan and they plan to use all or part of the concepts learnt in designing future cars such as the next Z. Time Magazine wrote a great article on this very subject back in March and it’s worth taking a look at if you’re interested.


Here are a series of photographs detailing some of the 80 designs and how they started in sketch and made their way to models for final selection.

[Zohaibzz]

Nice thread and love those sketches.
Neatly done!

[ToofaneBatameezi]

h1Revving Up Nissan/h1



Nissan GT-R sports car chief engineer and project planner Kazutoshi Mizuno, left, and chief designer Hiroshi Hasegawa, right, pose for their portrait in front of the Nissan GT-R sports car in Tokyo, Japan on February 15, 2008 .


Emerging from the driver's seat of a new Nissan GT-R at the Tokyo Motor Show last fall, CEO Carlos Ghosn flashed a wry grin and a custom-made Louis Vuitton suit. Ghosn's sharp look--a departure from his usual boardroom standard issue--suggested a calculated step up for Japan's No. 3 automaker. The GT-R--part luxury vehicle, part sports car--is Nissan's bid to compete head on with Ferrari and Porsche. For a company that has built its brand on the 3.6 million reliable midrange vehicles it produces every year, that is no small ambition. Think Ultraman meets Bond in a car designed for everyman--everyman who has $80,000 to spend. Building that car required Nissan to throw out much of its development know-how. Instead of a committee of Japanese engineers, Nissan put its faith in the creativity of a global team of engineers, designers and marketers. The GT-R is more than just a showpiece for gearheads, says Darren Cox, Nissan's brand-promotion manager in Paris: "The GT-R is a talisman from a product perspective but also a way of working."


While Ghosn called the shots, Kazutoshi Mizuno, chief vehicle engineer and chief product specialist, choreographed the GT-R's journey from a Japanese concept to Germany's famed Nürburgring racetrack, where it clocked 0 to 60 m.p.h. (100 km/h) in 3.2 sec., a wink faster than Porsche's GT3. "Mizuno was responsible for cherry-picking those he wanted to work with," says Hiroshi Hasegawa, chief designer of the GT-R. "Information cascaded from him." A veteran racing-system developer and director, Mizuno asked Ghosn to allow for a race-car development method. He started in December 2003, using early data on the GT-R concept to teach others how to reach the targets they would soon face in design. At that point, Mizuno says, he understood 120% of what needed to be done, but "others knew zero." Nissan held a global design competition--a first for the company--to pare down submissions for the car from 80 designers. About eight months later, Mizuno put together an approximately 100-person global team to execute the final design, which came under the direction of a six-person steering committee led by Ghosn in the spring of 2006.


"The process was not all sweetness and light. There were arguments and disagreements," says Simon Sproule, a Nissan spokesman. "It was very intense but more so because everyone was interested in the car. It gets very emotional." Hasegawa points to conflict between the engineering and design teams but says, "Compared to a normal project, we were more strongly conscious of being members of a team," and adds that building the GT-R was their shared goal. Mizuno reduced that task to its four core elements: engine, transmission, suspension and body design. Nissan hopes to use the same structure for the design of its Z and Cube models.


The cross-company, cross-national teamwork that created the car is inspiring those who are selling it. Nissan's marketing team held global meetings at which, for example, a proposal from Europe to work with only a select number of GT-R dealers was picked up for Japan and, possibly, the U.S. (The GT-R was unveiled in Japan last October, and will launch in the U.S. in June and in Europe by March 2009.)


Conspicuously absent from the team is advertising. Nissan's nontraditional marketing plan for the GT-R includes viral video, manga, two documentaries and a tie-in with Sony Computer Entertainment for an appearance in PlayStation's new Gran Turismo 5. The strategy is another signal of change: publicity-generated marketing is common practice for brands like Aston Martin and Lamborghini.


While the GT-R is further proof of Nissan's global dna--it is, after all, a Japanese company run by a Frenchman--Nissan has never deviated from keeping the GT-R's image rooted in Japan. (Ghosn's steering committee even toyed with the idea of linking the GT-R with Godzilla.) Mizuno often says that the car was born in Japan and raised in Germany. The GT-R, he says, is an expression of the Japanese senpai-kohai system, in which the more experienced teach their juniors. The GT-R team simply took that Japanese concept and exported it to build the car that Nissan--and, it hopes, luxury consumers--is waiting for. "Through the GT-R," Mizuno says, "all of Nissan can grow up."


Source: Time 2008!!

[ToofaneBatameezi]

Finally; The man...Shiro Nakamura speaks out about Nissan & Infiniti!! (Y)(Y)


h1Inside the mind of the man who designed the Nissan GT-R/h1





One hour ago, here in Pebble Beach, I was sitting at the dinner table conversing with Shiro Nakamura, designer of every recent vehicle to come from the house of Nissan/Infiniti. I asked Nakamura-san what was probably a fairly unoriginal question: What designers, other than Nissan's, do you admire?






Shiro Nakamura



Nakamura paused, looked at me, and smiled. "I get that question very often. But it is a good question." He reflected for a moment, then responded. "I like everything from Bill Mitchell. GM in the 1950s and 1960s was very strong. I like the Mako Shark, the original Oldsmobile Toronado. Also, I like Pininfarina and Giuigiaro." I then pressed Nakamura to name specific cars that he admired. And he didn't hesitate. "I like the De Tomaso Mangusta, the 289 Cobra, and maybe most of all the Lancia Stratos." When I responded that the Stratos is one of my favorite cars, Nakamura turned squarely toward me. "Yes. It is so good."







Nakamura makes his home in Japan but has also lived in Southern California (he studied automotive design at Pasadena's famed Art Center) and also has a design studio in Detroit that he visits regularly. "Inspiration comes from nature," he says. "I like the four seasons. I like seeing the snow in winter in Detroit," he admits. Then he adds: "California is sometimes too nice."

Nakamura loves to talk about nature. "Nature is something," he says, almost embarrassed to speak in English even though he converses very well. He speaks most reverently about Mount Fuji. "Every day when I drive to work in Japan, I can see Mt. Fuji, weather permitting. It is so beautiful. Confident, but not aggressive. I seek to create that kind of feeling in my cars."

I ask him about his most conspicuous design, the new GT-R supercar. What is the design theme and how does it fit into the Infiniti/Nissan range? "Infiniti is female," Nakamura says. "There is much negative shape in the designs, shapes pulled in, tapered to show the curves. The GT-R, though, is male. Muscle upon muscle upon muscle. The whole shape grows outward. I designed it specifically to look brutal, like a modern 289 Cobra. It is not sophisticated like a modern Ferrari."

Tomorrow I’m going to see photos of the new G37 Convertible. "It is not ready to show you," Nakamura says, referring to changes in the prototype we expected to see in the metal. "I hope you will like it in Los Angeles soon."




Interview: MT!!

[ToofaneBatameezi]

Actual Press release:



Audi Taps TurnHere to Build Social Videos for Its Facebook Community






Online Videos Introduce Audi Facebook Fans to the "Youth Mobile 2030" Design Challenge and Engage the Community on What Cars Should Look Like in 10, 20, and 30 Years


Emeryville, CA (August 27, 2009) -





TurnHere, Inc., the leading online video content creation and advertising company, announced that it has developed a video-driven Social Media package for luxury vehicle maker Audi. Specifically, TurnHere produced videos profiling Audi's participation in the "Youth Mobile 2030" design challenge for its Facebook fan page.





The videos showcase real Audi designers sharing their design philosophies and visions for the future of the automobile. They introduce viewers to the upcoming Los Angeles Design Challenge, a competition among Southern California automotive studios associated with the annual L.A. Auto Show. In this year's contest, Team Audi and other participating studios are tasked with designing a youth-oriented concept car for the year 2030.


With its Facebook page and videos, Audi is turning to its community of more than 300,000 Facebook fans to gather insight on the functionality and features they'd like to see in the year 2030. The videos encourage fans to participate in Team Audi's effort, and follow-up discussion questions solicit specific feedback, such as 'How will your car play a role in keeping you connected to your digital world in the future?'


"Video is a powerful way to experience the Audi brand and the passion of our design team. We wanted to show our Facebook fans that we're committed to creating automobiles that fit our changing lifestyles; and having this conversation with them is a critical part of that process," said Brad Stertz, Manager of Corporate Communications for Audi of America. "TurnHere did a great job of capturing that passion and desire in an authentic way that lets our designers start the conversation online among our fans."


"Audi is using social media to excite its community and engage them in their brand and design process. Video is an integral element to showing the human side of any brand and creating a personal connection," said John McWeeny, COO at TurnHere. "Online video production is now very affordable, and more brands are able to use video to engage people on the social web."


TurnHere is successfully helping brands and local businesses become visual storytellers through its turnkey video marketing solutions. Its strong network of more than 8,000 independent, professional filmmakers in more than 70 countries and in all 50 states brings local talent to each client and lowers the costs of video production.


The TurnHere-produced videos can be found on Audi's Facebook fan page at:http://www.facebook.com/audi#/audi?v...ewas=784459593


For more information on the Los Angeles Design Challenge, visit:http://www.laautoshow.com/DesignChallenge.html


About TurnHere, Inc.
TurnHere, Inc. is a leading Internet video content creation and advertising company that provides broadcast-quality online video content and Web distribution for companies in a wide range of industries including media, publishing, travel, local and real estate. The company leverages its growing network of more than 8,000 professional filmmakers across more than 70 countries to create affordable Internet videos that deliver emotionally engaging and authentic content to the right audiences. TurnHere works with customers on creative treatments and strategy to help produce effective video solutions for driving viewer action. Founded in 2005, the company is privately held with headquarters in Emeryville, California. For more information go to www.turnhere.com.


About Audi of America
Audi of America Inc. and its 270 dealers offer a full line of German-engineered luxury vehicles. The Audi lineup is one of the freshest in the industry with 23 models, including 12 models launched during model years 2008 and 2009. Audi is among the most successful brands globally. In selling one million vehicles worldwide in 2008, AUDI AG recorded its 13th consecutive record year for sales and profits. Visitwww.audiusa.com or www.audiusanews.com for more information regarding Audi vehicle and business issues.




TURNHERE, INC.
Editorial Contact:
Alison McNeill



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Ext. 112
alison@future-works.com

[ToofaneBatameezi]

Some videos for your eyes from Audi & LA design challenge:

[RetardedBuddy]

The front seems missing from the lamborghini

[ToofaneBatameezi]

What you on about RB?


Indian automakers rope in international designers



MUMBAI | CHENNAI: Spurred by a worldwide consolidation wave, Indian carmakers are rushing to global automotive designers in a bid to givea cutting edge to their products line-up. Auto majors such as Bajaj Auto, Maruti Suzuki, Mahindra & Mahindra and Tata Motors are understood to be meeting several top auto designers in a bid to scale up their in-house design functions.

Senior officials of these companies have conducted several rounds of interviews at a recent Society of Automotive Engineers event with designers from Chrysler, BMW and others based out of Europe and the US, people close to the development said.


The country’s largest carmaker, Maruti Suzuki, has shortlisted seven auto designers from Detroit who will start work from September 1, 2009. This is the first time that Maruti Suzuki is hiring global designers. These designers have expertise in design and model making, hybrids, engine and transmissions. “For a long time, we had limited resources. We would get new designs from Suzuki and the testing and development would be done here,” said IV Rao, MD officer-engineering, Maruti Suzuki. “We had less number of experienced designers, making it difficult to execute new projects,” Mr Rao said. The shortlisted designers would help in grooming the in-house designers and transferring know-how, Mr Rao added.

Two wheeler maker Bajaj Auto is understood to be hiring Edgar Heinrich from BMW Motorcycles to head its design function. Motorcycle sales have been under pressure and Bajaj Auto has been launching new products in the two-wheeler space to improve profitability and margin.

It is learnt that Mahindra & Mahindra and Tata Motors, too, are trying out this roadmap. Design will be the differentiator in the current globalised environment, since performance, quality and costs are getting commoditised, said a senior official at a Mumbai-based car company.

Indian auto companies, keen to tap global markets, have turned to design to cater to the discerning overseas customers, said VG Ramakrishnan, automotive & transportation sector senior director of business research and consulting firm Frost & Sullivan’s.



A senior MNC official, on condition of anonymity, said, India has so far not gained repute for its design capabilities as it has always been relying on external assistance. In two-wheeler design, however, Indian auto companies have been building their capabilities. TVS chose to build up its design muscle by having a separate lab, following its break-up with Suzuki. After the introduction of ‘Chetak’, Bajaj took the help of Japanese companies to upgrade its products.

Yet, technical capability and low cost of hiring engineers can help the realm of design in India kick up some dirt.
The change in the auto manufacturing landscape, following the downturn, has also kick-started an attempt by designers to look out for work in India and China.

Recently, Italian design house Pininfarina announced plans to sell majority stake and carmaker Fiat bought a bankrupt design house Stile Bertone earlier this month. Tata Motors, which was looking to buy Pininfarina, has lost interest since the main designers have left the place.

Prototyping and claymodelling, which typically gets done out of places like France, UK and Italy, are now design aspects that are done out of the subcontinent.

While GM and Chrysler have R&D centres in Bangalore, Renault has a design centre in Mumbai and Maruti Suzuki has declared its intent to hire 1000-plus engineers by 2010 from its current 720. These design houses not only do India-specific projects, but also projects for the parent company.

“The basic objective of setting up a full fledged India design studio was to learn from the Indian designers and the Indian market about local tastes and preferences,” said Jean-Philippe Salar, chief designer and head of Renault Design India. According to him, Renault’s design studio of 16 persons operates as a satellite of the Renault parent studio in Paris. “In the last 30 months, this studio has handled end-to-end design for the Indian market and is now capable of working on global projects for Renault,” he added.

“Customers no longer want a typical Korean or Japanese design, but want a dash of European styling,” said a senior official from a Delhi-based car company on condition of anonymity.


Source: ET!

[ToofaneBatameezi]

Frankfurt Preview: BMW reveals Vision EfficientDynamics turbodiesel plug-in hybrid concept









BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics Concept-Click on this link or any photo to view gallery!!


After several months of speculation and official teases for the past week, we now finally have all the details on the Vision EfficientDynamics Concept that BMW will show at the Frankfurt Motor Show in a couple of weeks. The speculation about the concept's powertrain has gone in several directions, almost all of which were correct. The new concept is a plug-in hybrid with a three-cylinder turbo-diesel engine. Conceived with the idea of melding the performance of a M3 with exceptionally low fuel consumption, BMW claims a 0-62 mph time of 4.8 seconds while scoring 62.6 mpg (U.S.) on the E.U. combined test cycle.

There has been considerable speculation that future BMWs will go to smaller engines including a three-cylinder. The concept uses a 1.5-liter turbodiesel that is essentially half of the fabulous 3.0-liter found in the 335d. The triple is rated at a hefty 163 hp with peak torque of 214 lb-ft. The engine is paired with a six-speed DCT derived from the unit used in the M3 and Z4.





Adding fuel to recent reports that BMW would not continue developing the two-mode hybrid system that will debut soon in the X6, the concept uses a new strong hybrid system. The new system is a further development of the mild hybrid that is debuting in the ActiveHybrid 7. As in the 7, a more powerful 33-hp electric motor is sandwiched between the engine and transmission. A second 80-hp motor provides drive to the front axle. The total net output of the drive system is 356 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. Continue reading more after the jump.





Making use of electric motors requires some electrical energy system. Here BMW's new concept has an arrangement similar to the Chevrolet Volt using a lithium-polymer battery pack running down the center tunnel of the car. Also similar to the Volt, the pack has a usable capacity of 8.6 kWh. However, the total capacity is just 10.8 kWh. BMW claims the pack used in the concept can use 80% of its capacity, considerably more than the 50% that the Volt uses. The upside is that the pack weighs just 187 pounds. When plugged into a standard European 220 V / 16 A outlet, the battery can be charged in just 2.5 hours


Unlike the Volt, which is designed to give its full performance from the electric drive system, the BMW concept gets its full capability from the blended power delivery. The concept is able to run about 31 miles on electricity alone and complete the NEDC test procedure on electricity. The efficiency of the diesel engine means that the 6.6-gallon tank can propel the car another 400 miles. The electrical energy consumption of the concept is 28.16 kWh/100 miles, which compares to the claimed 25 kWh/100 miles for the Volt.

Another area where the BMW differs, particularly from the original Volt concept, is aerodynamics. The Volt is well known for having had terrible drag properties. The BMW is claimed to have a drag coefficient of 0.22, part of which was attained by moving the diesel engine to the back of the car. The mid-mounted engine sits just ahead of the rear axle, which combines with the small front electric motor for a very low front end. Similar to the Cadillac Provoq concept – which eventually became the production SRX – front air resistance is reduced by using thermostatically controlled slats ahead of the radiator inlets to redirect air when it isn't needed for cooling. Overall, BMW says it has made use of knowledge gained from motorsports in optimizing the aerodynamics of the Vision EfficientDynamics concept.

Beyond the powertrain, BMW has implemented an array of technologies to optimize the concept. A full aluminum chassis and suspension along with a roof and much of the skin made from a light-sensitive polycarbonate combine for a claimed mass of just 3,076 pounds. Other interesting design tidbits include polycarbonate glass that gets darker when light shines on it, and LED lighting all around has given the designers more freedom as well as reduced energy consumption.





Perhaps most interesting is what BMW refers to as "Forward looking energy management." The idea here is to utilize the other systems in the vehicle to anticipate what is coming and optimize the use of the various powertrain elements to cut energy use overall. For example, the radar sensor for the active cruise control could be used to switch off the engine preemptively and trigger regenerative braking if traffic ahead is slowing down. We'll be "looking forward" to learning more about this system.








PRESS RELEASE:

THE BMW VISION EFFICIENTDYNAMICS CONCEPT

The latest BMW Concept Car for the EfficientDynamics philosophy.

Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, 29 August 2009, 6pm Eastern... For decades, BMW has made the reduction of emissions and fuel consumption a key part of its product development strategy, just as enhancements to the dynamic ability of each BMW have been a lasting, sustained brand value. BMW's EfficientDynamics engineering philosophy – the pursuit of an enhanced, athletic driving experience while simultaneously lowering the consumption and emissions of each vehicle – resulted in the most dramatic drop in fleet consumption of any automaker from 1990 through 2005, according to an Environmental Defense study.

Now, the BMW Vision concept car clearly demonstrates that the EfficientDynamics objectives are fully compatible when applied to a sports car. Conceived as a 2+2-seater with plug-in full-hybrid technology, this unique car combines the performance of a BMW M vehicle with a standard of fuel efficiency and emission management that exceeds even the current levels achieved by the latest small cars. This outstanding result is made possible by the combination of BMW ActiveHybrid components with an extremely economical combustion engine, and outstanding aerodynamic qualities.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is the result of a "clean-sheet" development process to ensure that the correct achievements were made in the areas of efficiency, driving pleasure, technology, and emotional design. BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is the most comprehensive implementation of the EfficientDynamics philosophy seen so far. The powertrain provides a top speed limited electronically to 155 mph, with acceleration to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 3.76 liters/100 kilometers, equal to 62.6 mpg, and the CO2 emission rating is 99 grams per kilometer. CO2 emission management is even more outstanding when driving in the all-electric mode after charging the battery from a plug-in source: Taking all emissions in the generation of electricity into account, as prescribed by the EU formula, the car's emission rating is just 50 grams per kilometer.

Through this unique balance of driving pleasure and fuel efficiency, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car clearly demonstrates the potential of BMW ActiveHybrid technology, which makes its world debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show in the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 and BMW ActiveHybrid 7 production models.

The power and performance are made possible by combining a fuel-efficient 3-cylinder turbodiesel with one electric motor on each axle. The intelligent combination of these units, together with precisely controlled energy management, simultaneously enhances the dynamic performance and the efficiency of the car. Overall system output is 356 horsepower, and peak torque is 590 lb-ft. The special arrangement of the two motors and diesel engine allows all-wheel drive when driving in all-electric mode. The result is minimum power loss and a harmonious transmission of the power available under all conditions.

In its design, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics for the first time conveys the dynamic look of a BMW sports car to a hybrid vehicle. Developed with decades of experience in Motorsport, the body of this unique sports car is a result of intelligent lightweight technology and aerodynamic efficiency. In the design of the interior, the focus was likewise on both the fascinating driving experience and, in particular, on transparent, hands-on technology and maximum reduction of weight.

Turbodiesel engine with unprecedented specific output.

The combustion engine is a cutting-edge turbodiesel featured for the first time in the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car. Displacing 1.5 liters on three cylinders, the engine consistently follows the downsizing principle of using a relatively small engine combined with a turbocharger to reduce fuel consumption.

Through its compact dimensions, the 3-cylinder fits conveniently in front of the rear axle like in an agile mid-engine sports car, despite the two seats at the rear. Fuel is injected by the latest generation of High Precision Direct Injection, and the turbocharger features variable intake geometry for maximum efficiency. Engine output is 163 hp with peak torque of 214 lb-ft.

The specific output of 109 hp per liter sets a new benchmark in diesel technology. The power delivered by the turbodiesel is conveyed to the rear axle by means of a double-clutch transmission (DCT). This advanced transmission technology, which already offers a particularly dynamic driving experience in BMW's M3 and Z4 Roadster, allows the driver to shift gears without the slightest interruption of power. BMW Vision EfficientDynamics features a newly-developed version of BMW's DCT with six speeds for maximum efficiency and flexibility.

Two electric motors for full-hybrid drive.

The combustion engine is supplemented by two electric motors. Consistently applying the BMW ActiveHybrid philosophy, development engineers followed the principle of "Best of Hybrid," choosing the optimum combination of a hybrid synchronous motor on the front axle and a full-hybrid system at the rear.

In this concept, the driver benefits from the efficiency of the electric motors over a far wider speed range than with a conventional hybrid car. The rear axle comes with a second-generation full-hybrid system corresponding to the technology in the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 production model. The compact electric motor positioned between the diesel engine and the DCT outputs a consistent 33 horsepower and is able to reach a peak of up to 51 hp. Maximum torque for the rear electric motor is 214 lb-ft, the power, either supporting the diesel engine or in all-electric motoring. When coasting or applying the brakes, the electric motor acts as a generator and feeds electric power to the lithium-polymer battery in the car. The electric energy developed in this way is therefore captured without any additional consumption of fuel through the principle of Brake Energy Regeneration. Energy wasted on the brakes of a conventional car is thus saved within the new power system for subsequent use in driving the car.

A second electric motor acts on the front axle. This engine, a hybrid synchronous motor, offers continuous output of 80 horsepower and peak torque of 162 lb-ft. Extra power of 112 horsepower is available for a period of up to 30 seconds, and, for a 10-second "burst," the electric motor is able to develop 139 horsepower. The power is transmitted through a 2-stage, single-speed reduction gearbox.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is able to run completely under electric power, with the power of the turbodiesel engine alone, or through an infinite combination of the three power sources. Depending on driving conditions, the two electric motors may be used both for accelerating and for regenerating energy when applying the brakes and while coasting. This principle ensures efficient energy management, with the charge status of the lithium-polymer battery constantly remaining within the optimum range. When accelerating, the electric motors help to boost the car for even greater performance, ensuring immediate response and a significant reduction in fuel consumption. For a short time, such as in passing maneuvers, the cumulative maximum output of all three engines increases to 356 hp, with maximum torque generated by the three engines reaching 590 lb-ft.

Lithium-polymer battery for electrical energy.

The energy cells featured in BMW Vision EfficientDynamics are housed in a chassis element running from front to rear through the middle of the car. The front unit is the lithium-polymer complex, an ongoing development of the lithium-ion battery. Overall, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics comes with a total of 98 lithium-polymer cells, each offering a capacity of 30 amp/hours and developing continuous output of 600 Amps at a voltage of 3.7 V. For a period of 30 seconds, each cell is even able to develop maximum output of 1,200 Amps.

Serial arrangement of the lithium-polymer cells serves to generate nominal voltage of 364 volts, the gross storage capacity of the battery is 10.8 kW/h. With an unusually high discharge capacity of 80 percent, the battery delivers 8.6 kW/h for driving the car. This superior performance comes on overall weight of the entire energy storage system of just 187 lb. A further advantage is that through their optimum dimensions tailored to the specific qualities and features of the car, the lithium-polymer cells, together with the operating strategy chosen with a concept of "forward looking" energy management, reduces the thermal load acting on the battery to such an extent that there is no need for active cooling.

Plug-in solution: convenient charging of the electric power system from a conventional power socket.

Brake Energy Regeneration captures electric power generated while driving without additional fuel consumption, which is subsequently used to supply power to the electric motors and on-board network. A further option is to connect the lithium-polymer cells to a conventional power socket for a simple and efficient charge process, using a plug-in connector in the front-right wing of the car. Connected to a standard EU power outlet (220 V, 16 Amps), the system requires a maximum of 2 ½ hours to fully charge the lithium-polymer cells. And wherever a power source with higher voltage and amperage (380 V, 32 Amps) is available, the charge time is an even shorter 44 minutes.

In addition to electrical energy storage, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics comes with a conventional fuel tank at the rear end of the central chassis tunnel, offering a capacity of 6.6 gallons. Running on diesel fuel alone, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is able to cover a distance of approximately 400 miles with its combustion engine. Benefitting from an extra range of up to 31 miles in the all-electric mode, the car offers an overall range of approximately 431 miles. As a result, this unique concept car offers all the requirements for using energy with maximum efficiency and at the same time experiencing the dynamic performance typical of BMW without any restriction of everyday driving qualities.

Performance, fuel efficiency and emission management opening new dimensions in hybrid technology.

The power delivered by the two electric motors and single diesel 3-cylinder engine gives the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept a level of performance superior to anything provided so far by a hybrid vehicle. Acceleration from a standstill to 100 km/h, for example, comes in just 4.8 seconds and the car could exceed its electronically-limited 155 mph top speed.

At the same time fuel efficiency and emission management now reach a standard only achieved, if at all, by far less powerful small cars conceived for city traffic and short distances. Applying the criteria of the EU test cycle, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics offers average fuel consumption equal to 62.6 mpg. CO2 emissions, in turn, are 99 grams per kilometer. These consumption and emission figures are measured on a consistent internal power balance, meaning that the batteries and storage media for electrical energy maintain the same charge level throughout the entire test cycle (with the same level at the beginning and end) and are charged while driving only by the car's on-board systems.

As a plug-in hybrid, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is able to cover the entire drive cycle for measuring fuel consumption also with its combustion engine completely switched off. Then, to subsequently charge the lithium-polymer cells to the same status as when setting off, all the driver has to do is connect the car to an external power grid. To determine the consumption of electric power, the only requirement is to compare the charge level of the battery before and after the test cycle. Applying this measurement process, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car consumes 17.5 kW/h per 100 kilometers, equal to a CO2 emission rating of just 50 grams per kilometer in the EU test cycle.

To determine the total volume of CO2 emissions when driving in the all-electric mode, new legal standards for measuring the level of fuel consumption are currently being prepared for hybrid and electric cars with a plug-in power supply. Applying this calculation method, the CO2 emission ratings generated by BMW Vision EfficientDynamics are reduced further to just one-third of the original figure of 99 grams per kilometer. Clearly, this significant reduction of emissions opens up a new dimension in BMW's EfficientDynamics development strategy in this unique concept car.

Aerodynamic qualities reflecting BMW's Motorsport experience.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics also takes a new approach in its design and streamlining, the body and the interior clearly expressing the unique combination of supreme efficiency and the sporting performance of the brand. Following BMW's design language, this concept car visualizes both highly efficient aerodynamics and intelligent lightweight construction.

In its design, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics differs from the usual low-emission car concepts. The principle of "form follows function" is not just for the overall look of the car, but embraces each and every detail. Measuring 48.8" in height and boasting a sweeping, arch-like roofline, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics offers the slender silhouette of a classic Gran Turismo. With the combustion engine fitted in front of the rear axle, the designers have succeeded in giving the car a very low front end, with the flow of air being further smoothened by active louvers in front of the radiator, which close completely when the need for cooling air is low. This efficient function follows in the footsteps of the active air flap control already used as a feature of BMW EfficientDynamics in some of BMW's current production models. As a further highlight, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics guides air smoothly and exactly as required into the car through an active air intake at the front.

Numerous details in the design of the body are based on the know-how BMW has gained in Motorsport, a number of body elements serving as air deflectors and guide vanes. Designed as ducts, for example, the A-pillars serve to channel the flow of air in the same way as the rear lights with their wing profile. The floor of the car is fully covered from front to rear and from one side to the other, thus maintaining a smooth surface to avoid any air swirl liable to increase fuel consumption. Slender openings around the front air dam guide the air flowing specifically into two closed ducts leading inside the front air dam to the wheel arches where the air comes out again through a very slim aperture at high speed, flowing just next to the outer wheel flanks. This air jet rests on the front wheels like a curtain and is therefore referred to most appropriately as the "air curtain." It provides a highly stabilizing effect.

Overall vehicle concept for a drag coefficient of just 0.22.

To further optimize the aerodynamic qualities of the entire vehicle and keep rolling resistance to a minimum, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics comes with tires and wheels of quite unusual size on a sports car. The tires measure 195/55, while large 21-inch wheels provide a contact surface on the road otherwise offered only by a much wider tire. In combination with the sophisticated axle geometry, this ensures agile driving behavior.

The extra-large wheel covers extending over part of the tire flanks add to the unique, very different look of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics from the side. The blade profile integrated in the wheels serves furthermore to reduce the negative effect of the turning wheels on the overall aerodynamics of the car. In all, these features optimizing the aerodynamic qualities of the car give the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car a very low drag factor (CX) of just 0.22.

Technological look as a strong impression of intelligent lightweight construction.

In both exterior and interior design, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics stands out clearly as a strong spearhead in technology. Many components of the vehicle are presented in full view expressing the "transparent" character of the car as a powerful visual feature of lightweight technology. The chassis and suspension of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics are made completely of aluminum; the roof and the outer skin on the doors are made almost completely of a special polycarbonate glass automatically darkening as a function of the light shining on the car.

Measuring 181.1" in length, 74.8" in width and 48.8" in height, this unique concept car offers ample space for up to four passengers and their luggage. Thanks to the consistent lightweight construction strategy applied on the car, curb weight is 3,076 lb, with the center of gravity remaining very low. In its power-to-weight ratio, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car is far superior to all other hybrid cars, achieving the same standard as extremely dynamic sports cars with a conventional combustion engine.

Carrying a maximum payload of 981 lb, this unique 2+2-seater is fully suited for everyday traffic. Luggage capacity of 5.3 cu ft, in turn, allows the driver and passengers to conveniently take along two golf bags. And to meet additional loading requirements the backrests of the two rear seats may be tilted down individually to provide extra storage space.

Emotional design through sculptural shapes and layering technology.

Reflecting the innovative drive concept of this unique car, the design of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics likewise takes a new approach in combining functional progress with a most powerful emotional impact.

This has been achieved through the close cooperation of BMW's Design and Technical Development Divisions starting at an early point and continuing consistently throughout the entire development process. The result is a brand-new vehicle architecture with the drive components as well as the body and interior elements perfectly coordinated and matched to one another with maximum flexibility and individual style.

A fully integrated design philosophy also provided new options in using harmonized design principles connecting the exterior and the interior and providing an interacting effect between the two areas.

Sculptural design language giving BMW Vision EfficientDynamics a fully harmonized, complete look ensures the proportions typical of a BMW sports car. The front, side, rear and roof areas, for example, flow smoothly into one another. Dynamically contoured surfaces and shapes, in turn, create highly attractive light and shade effects accentuating the light and sporting character of the car in an emotional manner.

Layering technology developed by the BMW Group Design Division acts as the fundamental guideline in designing the exterior and interior. Applied for the first time in exterior design, this technology layers one surface on top of the other, creating very smooth seams and joints to reduce the number of components and, accordingly, the weight of the car. As a result, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics meets the most demanding aerodynamic requirements without using any additional body elements, simply through the structure of the surfaces optimized for a smooth flow of air.

Interior: innovative lightweight construction and unprecedented orientation to the driver.

In the design of the interior, innovative layering technology provides an unprecedented symbiosis of function and stylish shapes intentionally reduced to a minimum, consistently implementing and visualizing the lightweight principle also inside the car.

Specific components such as the central air vent not only serving to enhance motoring comfort but also acting as part of the cockpit, perform several functions in one. This multi-functionality is then presented visibly within the car, the use of particularly sophisticated materials providing a highly attractive combination of innovation in technology and quality clear to the eye and the touch of the surface.

This interaction of lightweight construction and individual well-being also comes out clearly in the design of the controls and switches, with a leather band, for example, running round the aluminum gear selector lever on the center console. Materials combining lightweight technology and all the qualities required are also to be admired all round the cockpit of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics, giving the car an unusually generous feeling of space for a 2+2-seater. The body-contoured seats, for example, are made up of a kevlar shell, a backbone structure, and seat padding with personalized fillings. Clearly, this combination alone ensures comfort at a minimum weight. The driver's and front passenger's seats are connected firmly to the center console to form a joint interior "landscape", while the rear seats anchored on the floor would appear to be hovering in space. Natural materials and light colors on the seat upholstery and all interior linings underline the light, sophisticated and sustainability-oriented atmosphere within the passenger compartment.

The instrument panel is deliberately padded only where technical components have to be appropriately covered, thus making an important contribution to passenger safety in the event of a collision. The instrument cluster played a fundamental role right from the start in the design process, serving as the starting point for all surfaces within the interior and thus creating a particularly powerful rendition of that driver orientation typical of BMW.

Innovative light technology: providing clear signals to the outside and offering soothing ambient illumination inside in a unique symbiosis.

LED lights at both the front and rear end of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics provide an innovative combination of the symbols typical of the brand and clear design language oriented towards trendsetting technology. The distinctive look of the dual round headlights characteristic of a BMW is emphasized in particular by the use of LED technology. The rear lights are integrated also in their function into the design of the entire rear section, forming part of the rear air deflector and thus merging completely into the rear contour.

Extremely flat and compact, the rear lights are made up of innovative LED units forming a smooth and consistent red surface when not in use. Only when used do the respective light chambers take on the appropriate color such as yellow on the direction indicators. This innovative light technology also provides an intense symbiosis of the exterior and interior, again promoting and further refining the driving experience.

This is also why the ambient illumination of the interior comes with new features and qualities, the light sources within the passenger compartment being fed from the positioning lights at the side, the rear lights and the brake lights, thus changing the atmosphere created by the lights within the car as a function of driving conditions.

The optical impression conveyed by BMW Vision EfficientDynamics also results in other areas from the symbiosis of the exterior and interior, eliminating the conventional barriers between the two. The lines within the interior, for example, continue on to the innovative design of the engine compartment lid, while in its shape the third brake light positioned higher up on the car follows the structure of the glass roof and tapers to the outside where the roofline moves down gently to the rear.

Overhead doors for convenient access to all seats.

The doors on BMW Vision EfficientDynamics open up like bird's wings, turning on pivots in the front roof column at the level of the side direction indicators. Since the car has no B-pillars, the large door cutouts ensure convenient entry also to the rear seats. The pivots on the doors also provide the base for the exterior mirrors, thus forming an ideal combination of function and aesthetic design. The structure of the doors is also characterized by several layers of materials on top of one another and the optical and functional symbiosis of the interior and exterior this technology is able to offer. Made up of three layers, the overall structure comprises the outer glass surface, an interim load-bearing layer, and the interior cover with its particularly smooth shapes and fl owing forms clearly visible to the passengers, layering technology again, therefore, opening up new perspectives.

The large glass surfaces extending far down on the body also provide a strong optical impression of the low seating position close to the road. And at the same time a stable sidebar ensures the body stiffness and crash safety naturally required on every vehicle. Flowing to the inside at its central point, this safety element also serves as an armrest. This interplay of the three layers also helping to minimize the weight of the car continues on the trim bar running along the door and extending out of the armrest, finally flowing into the outer door opener on its path from inside to outside.

Clear focus on the essential: 3-dimensional Head-Up Display.

Layering technology is also used on the displays in the instrument cluster and in the Head-Up Display developed to an even higher standard on BMW's new concept car. The Display now creates a powerful impression of three dimensions, at the same time providing the option to present various signals more in the front or more in the background, depending on their relevance and current driving conditions.

The Head-Up Display projects information important to the driver on to the windscreen. Indeed, innovative presentation technology even allows the superimposed presentation of several views in three dimensions, keeping, the gauge graphics visible in the background while the latest information on route guidance or warning signals from BMW Night Vision, for example, are shown in the foreground.

The sequence in which such signals appear depends on the driving mode chosen by the driver, the display technology, again depending on the driver's personal preference, enhancing a particularly sporting, a more comfort oriented, or an efficiency-based style of motoring. Through its design alone, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car clearly shows that highly efficient individual mobility may by all means be presented in emotional style. BMW already offers models in all vehicle segments which, compared with the competition, ensure the lowest level of fuel consumption and emissions combined with superior power and performance.

And now BMW Vision EfficientDynamics confirms BMW's commitment to offer a perfect combination in future of unique driving pleasure and optimum qualities in the responsible use of natural resources.

In the design process the need for sustainable management is borne out most clearly by the GINA (Geometry and Functions in N-fold Augmentation) concept developed by the BMW Group. In this case maximum creative freedom sets the foundation for innovative solutions challenging the conventional and meeting the requirements of the future. This makes the GINA principle particularly well-suited for developing visions for the future reflecting both the wish for emotional style and individual character as well as the quest for sustainable management and efficiency. From the dimensions of its wheels through the design of the rear lights and all the way to the configuration of the cockpit, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics therefore boasts a number of details both outside and inside which, going far beyond conventional solutions, open up a new approach to maximum efficiency and that Dynamic ability typical of BMW.

Forward-looking energy management adjusting to individual requirements.

With the individual system components on board BMW Vision EfficientDynamics being networked with one another, conditions are perfect for implementing a forward-looking system of energy management using information gathered by the sensors of the driver assistance units fitted in the car. Data provided, for example, by the rain sensor or Active Cruise Control with its Stop & Go function as well as by the navigation system, and subsequently evaluated by the central control unit, offers an overview of current and upcoming driving conditions. Then, evaluating such data, the on-board computer is able to forecast driving conditions on the stretch of road immediately ahead, such calculations serving to prepare the car for upcoming requirements and make efficient use of the energy available through optimum operation of all systems.

Should the high-performance central computer establish, for example, that the driver is about to take the motorway, the power used for running the cooling system is reduced for a certain period in advance, on the assumption that the short increase in coolant temperature resulting from such an energy-saving measure will quickly be set off by the higher speed of the car on the motorway. Another example of such pre-conditioning is the regeneration of energy from the air conditioning, from Electronic Power Steering and the Brake Assistant.

[ToofaneBatameezi]

Fiat will introduce new car in JV with Guangzhou Auto



Italian carmaker Fiat SpA is directing its ambitions toward the world's biggest automobile market as the market slows down in Western countries.


Even though most major automakers already have stabilized their foothold in China, "Fiat is not a latecomer," said Franco Amadei, chairman of Fiat (China) Group


This month, the company introduced its new automatic transmission Fiat Bravo car model to the China market.


The car is equipped with the advanced transmission technology Dualogic, which can lower fuel consumption by 15 percent.


Fiat has two other imported models in the China market, Punto and Linea.


Paolo Arpellino, chief representative officer of the Chinese operations of Fiat Group Automobiles, declined to discuss the company's sales performance in China, but said he is satisfied with it.


"China is Fiat's most important strategic market," Arpellino said.


"We hope Chinese consumers can experience our Italian design and energy efficient technologies through our imported models first," he said.


Arpellino told China Business Weekly that Fiat's strategy includes further developments in its imported car segment and also in local production.


Joint venture


Fiat Group and Guangzhou Automobile Group Co Ltd (GAC) signed a framework agreement during President Hu Jintao's official visit to Italy last month.


The agreement establishes a 50-50 joint venture for the production of cars and engines for the Chinese market.


If the Chinese government says yes to the agreement, it will become the first passenger car production joint venture the government has approved in three years.


"The localization is expected to perfect Fiat's global strategic expansion, as we cannot ignore the business in the world's biggest auto market," Arpellino said.


For the past seven months, China sold more vehicles than the United States, surpassing the US to become the world's No 1 auto market.


Although Fiat has to wait more than two years for the first locally produced 1.4-liter Linea car to roll off its Chinese production lines, Amadei said that Fiat will continue to expand its presence in other ways.


Dealerships


"We are preparing a national dealership network for the coming Linea car," Amadei said.


Fiat has 30 dealerships in Beijing, Shanghai, Suzhou, Hangzhou, Wenzhou, Nanjing and Chengdu currently.


With an investment of 400 million euros and a production area of 700,000 sq m in size, the GAC-Fiat joint venture is located in Changsha, the capital of Hunan province.


Changsha is a major road and rail hub in the heart of south-central China, approximately 600 km north of Guangzhou, to which it will be connected within a couple of years by a high-speed rail link.


Upon completion of the first phase of development, the joint venture will have a production capacity of 140,000 cars and 220,000 engines per year.


Plant capacity could subsequently be increased to a maximum of 250,000 cars and 300,000 engines per year, according to Fiat.


The models produced will be equipped with advanced engine and transmission technology in response to the Chinese government's requirement to develop fuel-efficient, low-emission vehicles.


This industrial project is also eligible to receive support from the development plan recently established by the Chinese government to promote new investments in six provinces in central China.


Small cars


"Fiat is good at providing small cars, which follows the purchasing trend in China due to climbing fuel prices and the government's incentive policies," said Yale Zhang, director of Greater China Vehicle Forecasts for the US auto industry consulting firm CSM Worldwide Corp.


According to the GAC-Fiat agreement, GAC Group can also acquire Fiat's technology and parts support on its self-developed products.


This could help GAC achieve its target of selling 1.3 million vehicles and reaching 200 billion yuan in revenues in 2010.


The Italian automaker failed in a joint venture project two years ago when its partner, Nanjing Auto, was taken over by Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp (SAIC) Group.


Nanjing Fiat, the 50-50 venture founded in 1999 with a total investment of 3 billion yuan, on average sold fewer than 30,000 cars annually and operated in the red from 2003 to 2007.


Fiat only produced three models - the Palio subcompact, and Siena and Perla compacts - in its Nanjing venture.


"We believe Fiat can better communicate with GAC Group, which also experienced joint venture failure before (with French Peugeot)," Amadei said.


"More important, GAC Group is the most successful automaker in the China market in recent years as the one with the highest profit margin, the same as Fiat in Europe," Amadei said.


Source: China Daily!!

[ToofaneBatameezi]

This is an article written for the winner of conceptual garage design ;

Earlier this year, Maserati and Architectural Digest magazine together invited individuals who appreciate fine design in general and cars in particular to join in a competition titled "Design Driven."

Two categories - Existing and Concept - asked entrants to submit a garage design that included a noted architectural element, uniqueness and individuality, while providing a complementary environment for a Maserati car.

Approximately 125 entrants sent in text, images and illustrations through an online portal.

Winners include Holger Shubert's existing Los Angeles garage, as well as the design of Chris Altman, of Stubbs Muldrow Herin Architects of South Carolina, in the concept category.

"Our goal has been to open a conversation with those who place a premium on design and expose them to the unique qualities of Maserati," commented Mark McNabb, President and CEO of Maserati North America.

h1Taking garage concept for a spin/h1

As a piece of architecture, the American garage hasn't changed much since the horse and buggy days. At heart, it's still an attached or detached shed with a front door where the carriage, or car, moves in and out.


But architect Chris Altman doesn't see why it has to stay that way.


His concept recently won first place in a national garage design competition sponsored in part by the Italian luxury and sports car maker Maserati.


Altman, who works with Stubbs Muldrow Herin Architects Inc. in Mount Pleasant, describes himself as a bit of a car nut, so he entered the contest on a whim not long after receiving a Christmas subscription to Architectural Digest, which also was a co-sponsor.


The contest had two parts: one for existing garages and other for conceptual garage designs.


Altman entered and won the conceptual category.


His design features three circular spaces spanning the driveway and garage interior, similar to old railroad turntables.


Each turntable has three separate positions: an arrival position that is cocked at an angle; a display position in which the car is fully sheltered; and a departure position that lets the driver head straight back out down the driveway.


"It eliminates the need to back up the car," Altman notes. "I know my wife would love not to have to back the car out."


Like the winner of the existing category (a modern garage in Los Angeles where the car enters the living space right next to a large glass window that brings to mind the memorable sports car mishap at the end of "Ferris Bueller's Day Off"), Altman's design is a shrine to the car.


Once the car is rotated to the interior, it remains visible through a glass wall that faces on a reflecting pool.


Altman figures if anyone owns a really nice car, "then putting it into a box and not seeing it again defeats the purpose. It's like a piece of art within the home."


"In a sense, it's no different than collecting Picassos. You're going to have a special place in your home built to display those," he says.


Altman says the turntables resemble the moving parts of an engine and that others have told him that only someone knowledgeable about valves and carburetors could have come up with the design.


"All that subtly plays into how the design was developed," he says. "Some of it was figuratively. Some of it was literally."


The design will be publicized in October's Architectural Digest, and Maserati is looking at building a scale model of it, says Jeffrey Ehodin, Maserati's public relations manager.


"Overall, we're extremely impressed with Chris' submission," he says. "In a field of exceptional entries, his won handily thanks to its engine-themed inspiration and unique vision."


While Altman's design can handle three cars and is clad in limestone, he notes it easily could be adapted to more or fewer cars or other materials.


Aside from the turntable concept, the architecture is simple and clean, designed to frame the car and not compete for attention.


Altman isn't sure if such a garage ever will get built and estimates it likely would cost several hundred dollars per square foot -- about the same as a well-built home.


Of course, garages currently serve an interesting role these days. While built to house a car, the space often serves as a workshop, a family rec room or simply fills up with cardboard boxes and other junk that can't fit in the attic but is too valuable to put by the curb.


His vision takes the garage back to its essence.


"If you could build this, you probably would have plenty of storage someplace else."





Architect Chris Altman's conceptual garage recently won the top award in a national contest sponsored by Maserati and Architectural Digest. If it is ever built, this rendering shows what it could look like.





This exterior rendering of architect Altman's garage shows how the cars would be enshrined behind a reflecting pool and a glass wall.





The turntables that move the cars within Altman's conceptual garage resemble the workings of an engine, particularly in this overhead rendering.





Altman's conceptual garage not only serves as a sort of shrine to the automobile, but also reinvents the way a car is moved in and out. Large turntables make backing out a thing of the past.





This side profile of the garage shows how its deep roof overhangs protect the car from direct sunlight while a glass wall allows the car to be seen and appreciated from the outside.

[ToofaneBatameezi]

h1Becker Automotive and Crestron Team up to Produce the Most Productive Mobile Office Ever Offered/h1




Customized Mercedes-Benz van equipped with office technology.



The Ultimate Corner Office on Wheels Produces a Uniquely Effective Environment
ROCKLEIGH, N.J.--(Business Wire)--
Crestron Electronics and Becker Automotive Design announce the latest innovation
in personal productivity: a truly mobile office. Crestron is the world`s leading
manufacturer of sophisticated audio/video and lighting control systems; Becker
Automotive produces highly customized, chauffeur-driven business luxury
transportation. Put the two together and the result is zero downtime, even
during a traffic-laden commute.

Becker transforms Mercedes-Benz manufactured new generation Sprinter Vans and
Cadillac Escalade ESVs into virtual blank slates. Options range from choices in
chassis sizes to the number of hand-crafted seats, a variety of upholstery and
carpeting options and a selection of hand-veneered, genuine wood accents.
Complementing these luxury features is a technologically advanced environment
kept simple by Crestron, providing touchpanel control of virtually every
in-cabin system and device.

"When you sit in a Becker JetVan or Escalade, the `wow` factor is undeniable,"
said Vin Bruno, Crestron Director of Marketing. "You immediately grasp how
tremendous an asset it is for a busy executive on the road."

Without ever having to unclasp the seatbelt, owners can access high speed
Internet, 3G wireless technology, satellite TV and radio, iPods and Blu-ray
players, plus the air conditioning and heating, privacy dividers, aircraft-like
LED lighting, electric aviation blinds, seat and foot rest controls and
automated side entry door. 32" to 40" LED screens, 7.1 surround sound audio and
lighting dimmers make the AV experience equal to that of a home theater.

Even when stuck in traffic, owners can browse the Web, read email, access remote
computers or host a video conference, with setup as quick and easy as a
touchpanel button push. Whatever is needed to achieve mobile productivity -
uninterrupted work, conversation, rest, or relaxation - can be accomplished in a
Crestron-equipped Becker vehicle. Combining easy-to-use, sophisticated
technology with lifestyle-matching amenities creates an elegant, comfortable,
private, and efficient environment conducive to optimal use of valuable time and
an undeniably competitive edge.

"One of the great strengths of both Crestron and Becker Automotive is our
ability to customize our solutions," said Howard Becker, Becker Automotive
President. "If you can imagine it, we can deliver it; if it exists in your home
or office, we can duplicate it. Enjoying your everyday comfort and business
requirements while in transit allows you to use every waking minute to your best
advantage."

About Crestron

For 40 years Crestron has been the world`s leading manufacturer of advanced
control and automation systems, innovating technology and reinventing the way
people live and work. Offering integrated solutions to control audio, video,
computer, IP and environmental systems, Crestron streamlines technology,
improving the quality of life for people in corporate boardrooms, conference
rooms, classrooms, auditoriums, and in their homes and vehicles. With
headquarters in Rockleigh, NJ, Crestron has worldwide support and sales offices
on five continents. www.crestron.com

About Becker Automotive Design

Becker Automotive Design specializes in producing highly customized,
chauffeur-driven luxury transportation. Using Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and
Cadillac Escalade ESV chassis, Becker creates jet aircraft-styled,
high-technology interiors equipped with advanced business command centers and
complete entertainment amenities contained within a discreet, unassuming
exterior. Becker`s customers are located in 25 countries around the world, and
include business leaders, celebrities and Royal family members. Becker
Automotive Design has continuously been awarded Robb Report`s prestigious Best
of the Best awards for its innovative, state-of-the-art vehicles.
www.beckerautodesign.com


Crestron Electronics, Inc.
Jeff Singer
Director of Marketing Communications
800-237-2041
jsinger@crestron.com
or
Becker Automotive Designs, Inc.
Howard Becker, CEO
805-487-5227
Howard@Beckerlimos.com


Source: Reuters!!

[ToofaneBatameezi]

The latest thrlling, shocking development in car design:
h2Gaddafi turns to car design with 'The Rocket'/h2
citeSeptember 2, 2009/cite




In a week of events designed to celebrate Muammar Gaddafi's 40 years in power, the Libyan leader has also announced a new role for himself - car designer.


Two prototypes of "The Rocket" designed by the self-proclaimed "king of kings" were displayed to the public late Monday at the end of an African Union summit in Tripoli called to seek solutions to Africa's problems and mark the anniversary of Colonel Gaddafi's coup in 1969.


With its design based on that of a small boat "for maximum security", the car has been financed with Libyan capital and built by Italian constructor Tesco TS.


A member of the Italian team involved said the vehicle prototype "would have cost in the E2 million ($A3.4 million) range".


According to a brochure handed to journalists, the "Tesco TS technical team followed to the letter the ideas of the designer, the leader (Gaddafi) to produce the perfect car according to the leader's vision".


Source: TSMH!!

h1Qaddafi Designs a 'Rocket' Car?/h1




His country may be better known for producing the oil burned in automobiles, but to celebrate the 40th anniversary of his military coup, Libyan leader, Muammar al-Qaddafi, has designed a 'rocket car'.


An Italian engineering company said Wednesday that Qaddafi wanted an ultra-safe car as sleek as a rocket to celebrate the anniversary of the 1969 coup that brought him to power.
The "Libyan Rocket
", as the prototype is called, is described as an "elegant sedan" 17 feet long, more than six feet wide, with a 3-liter, V-6
gasoline engine
. According to the BBC, it also has airbags, an unspecified 'electronic defense system', and a collapsible bumper.


In an added bonus, it can go hundreds of miles on a flat tire, a feature that could come in handy while driving in the vast
Libyan desert
. Other safety features include a device to cut off the fuel supply to avoid a fire in case of accident.


Domenico Morali, CEO of Tesco TS SpA, an
automotive design company
based in
Turin, Italy
, said Qaddafi joined in discussions about the car's styling and asked for an original car using Libyan materials including marble, leather and fabric.


The car was unveiled earlier this week in
Tripoli
at the end of an African Union summit.


"The first thing (Qaddafi wanted) was safety in how you drive," Morali said in a telephone interview. "The second was developing the automotive sector in
Libya
."


According to the BBC, construction of a factory to produce the car will begin next month in the nation's capitol, Tripoli.


Qaddafi reportedly chose the name 'rocket' to send a message that Libya uses such devices for peaceful ends.


The Associated Press contributed to this report



Source: FOX!!









For pictures of the car please go to the following thread:


Libyan Rocket: CoL. Muammar Gaddafi designs a car!