Hbyke future zone

The Top Ten Stories of 2009

2010-01-02T09:53:00.000-08:00

The Top Ten Stories of 2009

The top ten stories of the 2009. The most popular article was the exclusive presentation of the Lamborghini Insecta Concept, a virtual project created by Romanian designer Iulian Bumbu.


01. Lamborghini Insecta Concept - see: article \|


2. Audi Shark Concept see: article	3. Audi A'KIMONO LS 2.0 Concept see: article	4. Volvo SC90 Concept see: article

5. From Dream to Reality: Car Design made in Iran see: article	6. Plymouth RoadRunner Concept see: article	7. Audi Intelligent Emotion Project see: article

8. Corvette Stingray Concept see: article	9. US Air Force X-1 Mustang and Vapor Challenger see: article	10. Zenvo ST1 see: article

Lamborghini Insecta Concept

2010-01-02T09:52:00.001-08:00

Lamborghini Insecta Concept

The Lamborghini Insecta Concept is a design study of a 2-seater mid-engined supercar created by Romanian Iulian Bumbu. The design combines the brand's styling cues with elements inspired by insect exoskeletons.

As Iulian Bumbu explains "The idea was to create an extreme race-oriented supercar with a style that introduces softer and more organic lines and integrate them into the geometrical style of Lamborghini."

The main inspiration came from nature, and in particular from the exoskeletons found in insects (bugs). This kind of "armour" appearance is particularly visible in the back and top views.

"I tried to apply this tipe of organic movements and translate them into Lamborghini's style so that when you see the car, you can immediately recognize it as a Lambo."

The dimensions af the car are a length of 4,300 mm (the same as the Gallardo), a height of 1,000 mm and a width of 2,000 mm, with a wheelbase of 2,650 mm. The body structure and panels are made of carbon-fiber and the powertrain is the same adopted on the Gallardo.

About the Designer

Iulian Bumbu was born on 21 July 1981 in Bechet (Romania).

He received a Master Diploma in Car Design from Scuola Politecnica di Design Milano (2007-2008), and a degree from National University of Art Bucharest - Product Design Department (2004).

Among his professional experience are a three-months internship at Centro Stile Alfa Romeo (2008) and three years of experience as a 3d modeler and texture artist at AMC Studio.

Audi Shark Concept

2010-01-02T09:51:00.001-08:00

Audi Shark Concept

The Audi Shark is a futuristic flying concept vehicle with a streamlined design inspired by motorcycles and airplanes. It was designed by Kazim Doku and won the Desire Competition by Domus Academy.

The Shark Concept by Kazim Doku reinterprets the Audi's design language in a futuristic way. It placed first in the Desire Design Competition launched in 2008 by Italian Domus Academy.

The two-seater flying sportscar is inspired by the world of motorclycles and airplanes and offers its passengers "strong sensations and high levels of safety."

The streamlined design of the exterior offers a visual reference to the car's name and - in combination with the rear lower spoiler - gives the vehicle an "underwater" appearance.

Both the headlights and the tail lights are made by transparent tubes which integrate LED units. The interior features sporty seats integrated in the cockpit structure.

Audi A'KIMONO LS2.0 Concept

2010-01-02T09:49:00.002-08:00

Audi A'KIMONO LS2.0 Concept

The A'KIMONO LS2.0 Concept is a design study of a futuristic vehicle inspired by light sculptures which uses an artificial lighting system to make the exterior body surfaces visible at night, hence Automotive Lighting Sculpture. It was designed by Bulgarian Teodor Kyuchukov - Dorteo.

The project is based on the original A'kimono Concept which received the third prize at the Desire Design Contest 2007 organized by Domus Academy & Stile Bertone.

One year later, inspired by Walter De' Silva's words - "If you want to see the new Audi, just design it", Teodor Kyuchukov developed an evolution of the same concept, referred it to the Audi brand and named it A'KIMONO LS2.0.

Based on the "Automotive Lighting Sculpture" concept, the exterior surfaces integrate an artifical lighting system which makes the car's silhouette recognizable at night. This system makes use of hidden lighting, where the source is not visible.

This type of light follows the relief and the shape of the surfaces, offering a smooth and unobtrusive effect to the viewer. It is often used for the lighting of interiors, monuments, architectural buildings and sports facilities.

As Teodor Kyuchukov explains "Car manufacturers pay attention on the night vision of an interior. They often miss the fact that no matter how perfect and stylish the outlines are, the layout of the car stays invisible for the human eye during the night."

"The exterior illumination [...] strengthens the emotional impact of a vehicle during the dark part of the day and turns the car image from “incognito” to a sensuous piece of art."

The project was inspired by lighting designer Steven Scott, who recently presented the “Hermetic light” works, which make use of the high-quality performance of the LED technology.

"His main goal is to provoke people develop their own sense of seeing and perception. Applying various artistic methods and techniques allows creating individual lighting designs, through which the designer communicates with the audience."

The exterior design combines the formal language of the latest Audi models with the lines of the Japanese national costume - the kimono, which is used in the martial arts where it allows optimal movement of the human body.

"That physical freedom is a starting point for creative interpretation in the A’KIMONO LS2.0’s surface language. There the soft lines indicate the textile behavior of the kimono and slightly reminds the stylish outlook of Audi R8."

About the Designer

Teodor Kyuchukov is a PhD student at the University of Ruse "Angel Kanchev", Bulgaria, Department of Industrial Design. The project has been developed under the promotion of Prof. Cvetomir Konov and Prof. Dr. Radoslav Kyuchukov - University of Ruse, Bulgaria.

Volvo SC90 Concept

2010-01-02T09:49:00.001-08:00

Volvo SC90 Concept

The Volvo SC90 is a proposal for a futuristic premium sporty four-door coupe characterized by a sleek profile, sharp lines and convex-concave surfaces interplay. It was created by designer Nouphone J. Bansasine.

The SC90 was designed by Nouphone J. Bansasine during his internship at Volvo in Summer 2007. The brief was to create a new premium product line for the brand.

As Nouphone explains, "My proposal was based on the growing trend for premium 4 door coupes, taking the concept to the extreme by exploring and developing a premium 4 door sportscar for the year 2015."

This sportscar with 4 doors and 4 seats would become Volvo's new flagship model and drive the brand towards a more emotional direction.

The Volvo SC90 would compete in the premium sport sedan segment with such models ad the Porsche Panamera and the Aston Martin Rapide.

The main design element of the car is its profile, chracterized by convex and concave surfacing.

This gives the car a classic and simple silhouette with a "more complex and fresh second read."

Seen in side profile the main defining lines and secondary elements are strategically designed by angled profiles from 180 to 90 degree increment.

"Each week I had a status review with VMCC's Vice President, Design Director, Strategic Design Chief, Senior Designers, Business Manager, and Studio Engineers.

"The feedback and discussion was invaluable and helped me focus on the development the project."

Nouphone J. Bansasine also speaks about his internship experience and gives some advises to new design students:

"The internship program provided me with the most up to date equipment and facilities, as well as access to senior designer staff and engineering professionals which proved invaluable for my development.

"Experience like this comes once in a life time. What I have learned from school and my internship can be summed up by several words or phrases. In order to be a successful designer you need to remember you are part of a team, you must focus on your target customer.

"Also be prepared to compromise but not lose sight of your target and most importantly be prepared to work hard! It’s a constant challenge between design, packaging, safety and budget, and good communication skills are essential.

"Nothing can describe the feeling when I first unveiled my final design to VMCC staff. Three months of trials & tribulations coming down to that one moment.

"My thanks to ACCD and VMCC, especially my mentor Christopher Benjamin, who have guided me on this amazing journey and helped make me who I am today.

"I feel that I got everything I could ever have wanted out of the program and helped me develop a quality of portfolio I could never have envisioned before. I also had an amazing life journey.

About the Designer

Nouphone J. Bansasine has graduated from the Art Center College in the fall of 2007, and is currently employed as a designer for Volvo Car Corps Concept and Monitoring Center (VMCC) in Camarillo, CA.

Car Design made in Iran

2010-01-02T09:45:00.000-08:00

From Dream to Reality: Car Design made in Iran

An extensive report of the "From Dream to Reality" collective car design exhibition which took place in Teheran, Iran. It presented many projects and works of young Iranian designers, including some new projects specifically developed in teams.

The collective concept car design exhibition titled "From Dream to Reality" took place from 18 to 23 April 2009 at the Kamal Aldin Behzad Gallery in Teheran, Iran.

The purpose of the event was to present the works and showcase the abilities of young Iranians graduated in Industrial and Transportation Design.

As Farzad Barkhordary, one of the organizers of the event, explains: "Given the great distance existing between Iran, the auto industry and the graduates in Car Design and Industrial Design, one main target of the exhibition is to create a more logical relationship between university and industry."

The goal is to repeat the event every year, in order to showcase the developments in Iranian auto industry and design to automotive professionals and enthusiasts.

Participant designers included: Iman Maghsoudi, Farzad Barkhordary, Alireza Mohammdzade, Keyvan Naderi, Mohsen Jafari malek, Hossein Soleymani, Yaser Rashid Shomali, Mohammad Reza Shojaee, Hosein Amini-Yekta, Majid Razmi, Hamed Amini, Ali Reza Sahragard, Peyman Mardani, Amin Dahre Sobh, Mostafa Bonakdar, Kaveh Naser Bakht, Hesamaldin Jeddy, Mahdy Sadeghi Rad.

Among the works on display were free sketches, renderings and individual collections of university projects and other works.

In addition to this, three groups of designers organized in teams, each presenting a different project. Below we report the three projects and an extensive selection from the works on display, divided by author.

See also the related image gallery with over 100 pictures.

Local-Motos SUV Concept

Team members: Iman Maghsoudi, Farzad Barkhordary, Mohammad Reza Shojaee.

The first team worked on a mid-engine super car, capable of carrying sports gear - such as Jet-Ski and mountain bikes - through passages in rough routes. The design aims sport-oriented usage in Europe and U.S markets, for Local-Motors Company (LM brand).


Local-car wasMotors SUV Concept	Volvo Luxury Concept

Volvo Luxury Concept

Team members: Alireza Sahragard, Amin Dahre Sob, Yaser Rashi Shomali, Peyman Mardani.

The second team worked on the Volvo brand to design a luxury car.

Mini Concept

Team members: Keyvan Nader, Mohsen Ja'afari Malek, Kave Naser Bakht, Yaser Rashid Shomali.

The third team faces problems such as traffic and pollution, and looked for new solutions. Initially focused on mini vehicels, the research resulted in three different projects, developed for Audi, Skoda and Renault.

Audi D7 Concept


Audi D7 by by Kave Naser Bakht

D7 is a super sports concept car with an electric engine in front. Among the features areare the charging crack on the nose and light belts around the car which integrate the headlights and taillights while forming the shape typical of Audi's head lamps and grilles, thus making the car easily recognizable at night.

Renault Degan Concept


Renault Degan by Yaser Rashid Shomali

Skoda Concept

Mohsen Jafari Malek designed a multi-functional and convertible mini car based from Skoda products and brand design language.


Skoda Concept by Mohsen Jafari Malek

Image Gallery

The exhibition also included many sketches and renderings created by Iranian young designers. Below we report a selection:

Farzad Barkhordary

Iman Maghsoudi



iBite Concept - a micro-recreational design for beach usage, winner of the Hawaii Motors Competition


Digital renderings for the Local-Motors brand entity


Renault R1 Electric Super Sport Car Concept by Iman Maghsoudi

Hossein Amini Yekta



Jaguar CXJ Luxury Retro Design Car by Hossein Amini Yekta

Hossein Soleymani



Concept for Mercedes-Benz Retro Design Car

Keyvan Naderi


Ford iBuddy Multi-Function Concept


Renault Megane

Majid Razmi




The Miura-inspired Aggressive Hunter by Majid Razmi

Mahdi Sadeghi Rad

Others


Concept Solar Hybrid BMW by Mostafa Bonakdar	Alfa Concept by Alireza Sahragard	BMW 4 Series by Mohammadreza Shojaie

For more information about the exhibition and in order to contact the organizers, visit www.barkhordary.com.

Plymouth Road Runner Concept

2010-01-02T09:43:00.000-08:00

Plymouth Road Runner Concept

The Road Runner Concept is a design study of a riedition of the Plymouth Road Runner muscle car. It is inspired by the 1971 model and adopts a modern design lanugage while maintaining the character of the original car. It was created by Austrian Michael Leonhard.

The Road Runner Concept was first shown in 2008 on the cover of Mopar Enthusiast magazine to illustrate a possible return of the Plymouth brand.

The study was created by Austrian independent artist Michael Leonhard.

The design takes inspiration from the Road Runners of the years '71 and '72 and adds modernized and futuristic shapes, while keeping the character of the original car. The typical muscle car stance is enhanced by the wheels - 20 inches at the front, 22 inches at the rear.

The powetrain could adopt a 5.7 up to 7.0 liter engine coupled with six-speed manual or automatic gearboxes.

Below we report Michael Leonhard's description of the design process.

"The front looks dramatic and mean thanks to a headlight section made of tinted glass. Headlights only become visible when they are turned on.

"The same goes for the Roadrunner Logo in the center that is now illuminated. The big grille opening provides plenty of air for the radiator. The hemi-powered monster gets rid of hot air the other way round through the typical hood scoops.

"The side view is characterized by a dramatically dynamic shape with a low roof line, high belt line, square-molded wheel-arches and big magnesium five spoke wheels (22 inch rear, 20 inch front) combined with red line tires.

The powerful looks continue on the rear with a big diffusor for improved road grip and a dual exhaust system.

"The taillights are styled to match the headlights and become visible when turned on. To a big part the roof is made of glass except the A-pillars made of aluminium.

The C-pillar becomes a dominating design element on the roof section and carries the typical interrupted Roadrunner grafics. The color of choice for the body is Curious Yellow and Triple Black."

Additional information is available on Autoblog.com.

About the Plymouth Road Runner (1968-1980)

1971 Plymouth Road Runner

The Plymouth Road Runner was a muscle car built by the Plymouth division of the Chrysler Corporation between 1968 and 1980.

In 1968, although Plymouth already had a performance car in the GTX, designers decided to go back to the drawing board and reincarnate the original muscle car concept.

Plymouth wanted a car able to run 14-second times in the quarter mile (402 m) and sell for less than US$3000. Both goals were met, and the low-cost muscle car hit the street.

In 1970, with the Plymouth Superbird, Plymouth unveils a NASCAR-like car for use on normal roads.

Like the Dodge Daytona, it has a high rear spoiler and aerodynamically shaped, elongated front nose section, and can reach just under 200 mph (more than 300 km/h).


1st generation Plymouth Road Runner (Source: autogaleria.pl)	Plymouth Road Runner Superbird (Source: autocult.com)

For more information on the Plymouth Road Runner, visit the page on Wikipedia.

Audi Intelligent Motion Project

2010-01-02T09:42:00.000-08:00

Audi Intelligent Motion Project

The “Intelligent Emotion” project was promoted by Audi in cooperation with Munich University of Applied Science. Design students were asked to create visionary ideas for the mobility of the future - from hybrid supercars to lightweight interior concepts.

Under the title “Intelligent Emotion,” students at Munich University of Applied Sciences, aided by Audi, have developed visionary ideas for the mobility of the future – from a hybrid supercar to an alternative concept for lightweight design of interiors. The results are presented in eleven future-oriented concept studies.

“The next generation of employees is our future,” says Wolfgang Egger, Head of Audi Group Design. “That’s why sponsoring design students is one of our high priorities. With the “Intelligent Emotion” project we have obviously inspired them to find new and creative approaches for the future of personal transportation.”

The project was headed by Dr. Othmar Wickenheiser, Professor of Transportation Design at Munich University of Applied Sciences.

Wolfgang Egger and Stefan Sielaff, Head of Audi Design, mentored the project.

The objective of the design project was to present Audi as a sporty premium brand as well as a pioneer in technology and design.

Seat concept study by Maximilian Kandler

The balance between innovation and brand recognition was to be represented in a product with great emotional appeal that also conforms to the requirements of society.

The results are impressive,” says Wolfgang Egger. “The students have addressed the subject of mobility in the future with very well-conceived and lucidly presented approaches.

"Each concept, each model, contains at least one idea or feature that we could certainly conceive of as being included in a future production vehicle.”

During the creative process, Audi designers supported the students. "After all, they too are constantly pursuing innovative ideas to reinforce Audi's status as a leading brand in automobile design."

“What sets a good designer apart is the very special ability of conceptualizing the future and visualizing it in images,” says Stefan Sielaff, Head of Audi Design.

“Current developments such as alternative engine concepts or increased efficiency of our vehicles also call for answers from the designers. We find it fascinating how students approach such challenges – above and beyond the technical and regulatory requirements that the design of production cars has to meet.”

As Egger explains: “Emotion as a driving force must go hand in hand with responsibility as regulator. The students’ assignment was to develop esthetic approaches that reflect the new ecological, technical and social issues while also portraying an Audi as an attractive, sporty automobile. The results are of very high creative quality and provide plenty of substance for intensive discussions.”

The project results have been published as a book – with commentary by Audi’s chief designers. Published by Heel Verlag and titled "Audi Design Projekt", the book is available at booksellers for €29.90.

Below we report a selection of the projects.

Audi Concept by Maximilian Mandl

Audi Concept by Niels Steinhoff

Audi Concept by Sylvain Wehnert

Audi Concept by Fabian Weinert

Audi Interior Concept by Maximilian Kandler

Corvette Stingray Concept

2010-01-02T09:39:00.000-08:00

Corvette Stingray Concept

GM has unveiled the Corvette Stingray Concept, the one-off dream car inspired by the 1959 Stingray race car and the Corvette heritage that will be featured in the upcoming summer blockbuster movie Transformers II.

At the 2009 Chicago Auto Show GM has unveiled the Corvette Stingray Concept, already previewed in the past months under the name of "Vision Concept" and "Centennial Concept".

The car will be among the characters of the upcoming "Transformers II: Revenge of the Fallen", where it will "act" as the four-wheels counterpart of Sideswipe.

The sleek concept was "dreamed up" by the Corvette designers at GM, who were influenced by the original Stingray race car, introduced in 1959.

The Concept also draws on Corvette heritage cues from other generations and brings them together in a futuristic shape that "seems to be equal parts racecar and space ship".

“SIDESWIPE represents an exercise in exploration for the Corvette,” said Ed Welburn, vice president of GM Global Design.

“By giving my creative team the freedom to design no-holds-barred vision concepts, it helps them push boundaries and look at projects from different perspectives.”

Transformers II: Revenge of the Fallen

The Chevrolet stand at the 2009 Chicago Auto Show (Friday through Feb. 22) features five Chevrolet-based characters – including four all-new characters – featured in the new from the upcoming DreamWorks Pictures and Paramount Pictures release, “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen”, which is set to open in the United States on June 26.

The four new movie characters are:

SIDESWIPE – a stylized Corvette vision concept vehicle
SKIDS and MUDFLAP – twin AUTOBOTS® based on Chevy’s Beat (a concept that will go into production as the Chevy Spark in 2011) and Trax concepts
JOLT – an AUTOBOT based on the upcoming Chevrolet Volt extended-range electric vehicle

BUMBLEBEE, the heroic AUTOBOT based on Chevrolet’s Camaro concept from the first “Transformers” movie, returns with a high-performance attitude. Joining the vehicles on stage will be BUMBLEBEE in his AUTOBOT form, standing almost 17 feet (5.2 meters) tall and 13 feet (4 meters) wide.

Ed Peper, GM North America vice president, Chevrolet said “‘Transformers’ gives us a great opportunity to connect with young people on their terms, with a dynamic, environmentally friendly image. The new characters represent the change going on in Chevy showrooms."

Directed by Michael Bay, “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen” sees the AUTOBOTS confront a new threat from DECEPTICONS bent on avenging their earlier defeat on Earth.

The new AUTOBOT characters in their current Chevy-based form square off against new, tougher foes determined to rule the universe.

The cast includes - among the others - Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox and John Turturro who already starred in the first movie.

“‘Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen’ goes way beyond the first film in terms of robot action and excitement,” said LeeAnne Stables, executive vice president of worldwide marketing partnerships at Paramount Pictures, the distributor of the film.

“The new AUTOBOTS add to the storytelling, and these Chevy vehicles went with our filmmakers to locations all around the world.”

Along with the Camaro that’s reprising its role in the new film, the other Chevy models to be seen on the big screen are new to movie-goers.

The Beat and Trax-based characters, SKIDS and MUDFLAP, remain faithful to their concept designs introduced at the 2007 New York Auto Show – although each wears new paint and other exterior accessories.

And while they may be small cars, when they turn into fighting AUTOBOTS®, they pack a big punch.

The other new AUTOBOT, JOLT, appears in the production form of Chevy’s 2011 Volt extended-range electric vehicle.

BUMBLEBEE, the yellow Camaro, is based on the new, 2010 production model and will showcase new wheels and SS-model performance cues.

For more information visit www.autobotsrollout.com and the Transformers II page at IMDB.

US Air Force X-1 Mustang and Vapor Challenger

2010-01-02T09:38:00.000-08:00

US Air Force X-1 Mustang and Vapor Challenger

The US Air Force in cooperation with Californian Galpin Auto Sports have built the X-1 Ford Mustang and the Vapor Dodge Challenger, two extreme high-tech concept cars that will be featured in the 2009 Super Car Tour mobile recruiting initiative.

Galpin Auto Sports in partnership with the United States Air Force have created two customized vehicles for the 2009 Super Car Tour – a new U.S. Air Force recruiting initiative.

The white Ford Mustang ‘X-1’ and black Dodge Challenger ‘VAPOR’ are Air Force-inspired designs that will travel across the country this year as part of a mobile marketing campaign to inform young people on the career opportunities available within the Air Force.

The Air Force looked to Galpin Auto Sports to create two unique hyper-styled vehicles with the most technologically advanced features available.

The vehicles are a combination of form, function and futuristic entertainment all fueled together.

The 2009 Super Car Tour will primarily visit high schools and a variety of Air Force sponsored events including the DUB magazine auto show, Hot Import Nights, Battle of the Imports, Formula Drift, International Hot Rod Association and local community events.

For more informtion - including several "making-of" videos, visit www.airforce.com.

X-1 Mustang Concept

Representing the muscle of the Air Force, the ‘X-1’ Mustang is a heavenly matte-pearlescent painted supercar with a jet cockpit that includes a single-driver ejection seat in center of vehicle, short shifter, flight stick, and advanced instrumentation panel.

The ‘X-1’ also has a concealed motorized steering wheel, custom foot pedals, GPS transponder and the innovative dash is equipped with a touch screen monitor and sensor pack that displays night and thermal vision.

The 4.6 liter engine includes 3-valve Ford Racing heads, cold air intake, hot rod cams, and long tube headers creating 500hp and is maintained by a custom Ford Racing Tuning Program.

The Vertical doors feature interior panel fabrication to complete the ‘jet-like’ feel of the ‘X-1’, which will appear on the East Coast portion of the Air Force recruiting tour.

Challenger 'Vapor' Concept

The stealth-black Air Force Challenger ‘Vapor’ features a biometric access to open the Vertical doors, a custom Stealth body kit with Jet enhancements and a carbon fiber exterior trim.

Other exterior components include one-off carbon fiber wheels, a custom stealth exhaust mode that allows the vehicle to run in complete silence or you can open up the headers to facilitate the aggressive sound of the engine, shaker hood, radar-absorbing paint, proximity sensors, and a 360-degree camera with ¼ mile range.

The interior of the ‘Vapor’ is complete with aircraft style controls, a passenger side steering wheel, GPS tracking, night and thermal vision via a film on the front windshield, and the most technologically-advanced computer system with remote control UAV-type access from anywhere in the world utilizing the internet.

The ‘Vapor’ also comes with two custom flight helmets in line with the Air Force theme of the vehicle.

About Galpin Auto Sports

Galpin Auto Sports, located in Van Nuys, Southern California, is widely known for its corporate and one-off vehicle designs, through its involvement with various movies and TV projects, including the 2008 “Knight Rider” series’ KITT car, the upcoming movie car in the thriller “The Red Mist” and the acting-home base of MTV’s “Pimp My Ride”.

For more information visit www.galpinautosports.com.

Zenvo ST1

2010-01-02T09:34:00.000-08:00

Zenvo ST1

The ST1 is a prototype of a supercar created by Danish company Zenvo. It features an aggressive racing-like design, is powered by a 7.0 liter V8 engine and can reach a top speed of 375 km/h. It will be hand built in a limited series of 15 units.

Created by Danish company Zenvo, the ST1 is powered by a 7.0 liter V8 engine with more than 1,100 hp and a max torque of 1430Nm. These impressive figures allow for a top speed exceeding 375 km/h and a projected 0-100 km/h time of 3 seconds.

The research and development of the concept started in 2004. The final prototype has now been completed and the car has entered it’s last stages of performance testing, where according to Zenvo it has achieved a 0-100 km/h time of 3.2 seconds and a 0-200 km/h time of 8.9 seconds. Zenvo plans to start a limited series production of 15 units within 2009.

Design

The design of the ST1 was developed by Hermann & Brandt Design studio. The brief was to design a sportscar with an aggressive mix of typical supercar styling cues and race car elements.

Started with the first rough sketches in August 2006, the final design was approved in February 2008.

The design of the car is made from free flowing accelerating lines creating the shape of the wheel arches, the roof line, side line and the lower side air intake.

The sharp lines are connected by muscular organic surfacing creating dramatic reflections. Contrasting the general surfacing the design features a race car inspired lower carbon splitter.

The front is designed around the hexagonal trademark Zenvo grille flanked by the large front air intakes used for brakes and engine cooling. The intakes are raked back to minimize drag and at the same time making the side impression of the car more compact.

The theme of the front is repeated in the rear which is designed around the big diffuser necessary for high speed stability. As on the front the center volume is flanked by large air exits extracting hot engine air as well as housing the exhaust and rear lights.

The rear spoiler mandatory for a car capable of extreme high speeds is partly integrated in the rear wing. It has a unique aerodynamic design following the raked shape of the rear end.

For more informatio visit Zenvo's official website.

Seat Brisa and Duna Concepts

2009-05-22T21:43:00.000-07:00

Seat Brisa and Duna Concepts

Seat Brisa and Duna are two compact electric sportscars powered by Nano Photovoltaic Cells integrated in a translucent elastomer shell. The author is Spanish design student Miguel-Angel Iranzo Sanchez.

The Seat Brisa and Seat Duna are two compact electric sportscars designed to provide old-fashioned fun in a eco-friendly way.

Speaking on the projects, Miguel-Angel Iranzo Sanchez explains: "They were designed on a quite passionate way, each in less than a week, trying to retain the freshness of the first raw sketches, without overthinking them much. I wanted them to look spontaneous, as if they were designed almost by chance."

Seat Brisa

The Seat Brisa is a nimble sports car study. As sail boats are propelled by the wind, the Seat Brisa is propelled by the sun. Nano Photovoltaic Cells within its translucent elastomere shell translate power to a rear wheel mounted motor.

Aesthetically, the Brisa (breeze in Spanish) tries to convey lightness (with its thin waist), harmony with nature (with its plywood floorpan) and emotion (with its dramatic surfacing).

Seat Duna

The Seat Duna is an electric beach buggy designed to provide old-fashioned fun in an eco way. Based on the Volkswagen Up! platform, the Seat Duna is propelled by an electric motor fed by Nano Photovoltaic Cells scattered throughout its translucent elastomere shell.

"With its lightweight mesh seats, laminated cedar rocker panels inspired by vintage surfboards, and bright colors, the Seat Duna is a quite extrovert car."

About the Designer

Born on 14 January 1986 in Requena, Spain, Miguel-Angel Iranzo Sanchez has a Degree in Graphic Design (EASD Valencia) and is currently completing a Master in Transportation Design at the Universidad Politécnica de Valencia.

Among the received awards are a finalist placement at the L'Argus 7th Design Competition (2009), and at the Car Design News / Autodesk / Sabic Plastics Design Contest 2008.

In 2007 he won the 10th Nissan / Autopista / UPV Design Contest and in 2006 he placed third at the 5th L'Argus European Design Competition.

Saab Fashionista Concept

2009-05-22T21:26:00.000-07:00

The Saab Fashionista is a design study of a premium four-seat mid-engined coupe based on the Chevrolet Volt. The design takes inspiration from sci-fi, the fashion world and Raymond Loewy's MAYA principle. It was created by French design student Mayeul Walser.

The Saab Fashionista is a proposal for an up-market, four-seat, mid-engined coupe which could be built on GM's hybrid platform as used in the Chevrolet Volt.

At 4,450mm (175 inches) long, 1,800mm (70.8 inches) wide, and 1,250mm (49 inches) high the Fashionista and Volt have almost identical dimensions - although the Fashionista's roofline sits slightly lower.

Mayeul Walser comments: "The styling inspiration for the Saab Fashionista comes from a variety of different sources including futuristic sci-fi technology and Chanel's fashion collection from K. Lagerfeld.

"In combining these different influences the overall design philosophy of the concept referrers to Raymond Loewy's principle of MAYA (Most Advanced Yet Acceptable)"

This design style essentially means that the Fashionista has been created to appear futuristic and forward thinking while also remaining within the boundaries which most people will readily accept.

The overall design is soft and sleek, and in the same time there is some sharped lines providing a dynamic stance.

Access to the interior of the Saab Fashionista concept is through unique two part doors.

The top part swings upward in manner similar to gullwing doors, while the lower section moves out and then back.

About the Designer

Mayeul Walser is a 23 year old French car design student currently attending a Masters degree in Transport Design at Creapole-ESDI in Paris.

He is currently seeking an internship for July to December of 2009.

Opel/RCA Design Competition: the results

2009-05-22T21:12:00.000-07:00

GreenGT 2011 Le Mans Racer

Tags: concept cars, greengt

Swiss company GreenGT has unveiled a prototype of an electric Le Mans racer for 2011 that could preview a production version. The design was created by design students from the CCi du Valenciennois, France.

To showcase its technological capabilities, Switzerland-based GreenGT has created a prototype of an electric racing car that could compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2011.

According to the first official information, the Sportscar could also enter a limited production, with the only difference between the standard and the racing version being the onboard software.

The sportscar has a fibergass body mounted on a carbon-fiber monocoque chassis. The powertrain - which adopts two 100-kw electric motors - features a 350 to 400 hp power output and a torque of about 2,000 Nm.

Estimated performances are a 0-60 mph time under 4 seconds and a top speed limited to 171 mph (275 km/h).

The design was created by a team of students from the CCi du Valenciennois (France):

Baptiste Viry ( Designer, 5th year)
Thomas Clavet (Designer, 5th year)
Julien Sarreméjean (Designer, 3rd year)
Romuald Lemoine (Digital designer, 2nd year)
Mathieu Bouis (Digital designer, 1st year)

(Source: GreenGT via AutoblogGreen)

L'argus 8th Design Competition

2009-05-22T20:59:00.000-07:00

French magazine L’argus de l’automobile has launched its 8th European Design Competition, with the brief "Less is more: travelling in the era of simplicity". The contest is open to European design students and the submission deadline is 11 December 2009.

Link Concept, winner of the 7th edition

French magazine L’argus de l’automobile has launched its 8th European Design Competition, open to students attending design colleges within the European Union and Switzerland (automotive and industrial design, fine arts, architecture…).

This edition's brief is "Less is more: travelling in the era of simplicity". To answer this question, students have to propose the simplest solution to the greatest number of needs that mobility involved in modern society.

They will have to focus on optimization of the whole chain, from design of the vehicle to its use, integrating the concept of “always less”: less useless materials, less functionalities and equipment, less energy, less wasting of time, less pollution, less environmental impact.

"After more than 50 years of uninterrupted growth in terms of performance, weight, power, size, and also price, the growth curve of the car is currently experiencing its first inflections.

The Scorpion concept, 2nd winner of the 7th edition

"This is the opportunity for students to give free rein to their imagination in designing innovative and modest vehicles."

Participants can submit their project from 1st June to 11 December 2009.

During the award ceremony that will take place on 20 January 2010 evening the winner will receive 3 000 € and an internship at the partner Design centre.

The competition is sponsored by Citroën, which already supported the 4th et 6th editions, and which will offer an internship to the winner within its Design department.

Prizes

The winner will receive a sum of 3,000 €, as well as an internship within the style department of French car manufacturer Citroën.

Tube concept 3rd prize winner in the 7th edition

The designer of the project in 2nd place will win 1,500 € and the designer in 3rd place 500 €.

Every project short-listed for the final will be exhibited during the award ceremony on 20 January 2010.

Submitted entries must include 4 plates:

1 context plate with the project explanations and the guided commentary ;
1 sketch plate ;
2 drawing plates, including:
- Views from different angles (exterior, interior and focusing on certain functions) ;
- Captions (chosen materials, labels of the interior lay out, the vehicle architecture, the ergonomic design, the dimensions, the specific functions, etc.).

About L'Argus Design Competition

307 students were registered last year and, among the prize list, the most prestigious design schools implicated in supporting the candidates: ENSAAMA Olivier de Serres, Créapole, Créasud Bordeaux, IUP d’Évry, Ecole de Design Nantes-Atlantique and Ecole de Condé de Lyon are some of the main contributors.

Damien Grossemy, Thibaut Dereymacker and Maxime Dimarcq, students at ISD Valencienne, won the 1st price with their project “link”.

Others European schools are increasingly involved: they represent 45% of the inscriptions in 2008 (vs 37% in 2007), particularly from Coventry School of Arts and Design, University of Northumbria and Istituto d'Arte Applicata e Design.

Originally devoted to the specific segment of utility vehicles, L’argus Competition opened up in 2008 to themes related to the social use of transport, and mobility in the wider sense. The 8th edition confirms this trend, with a theme that directly reflects the current state of affairs.

(Source: L'Argus)

Suzuki’s Kizashi concept

2009-05-06T07:51:00.000-07:00

Suzuki’s Kizashi concept

1) Suzuki unveiled a new concept car named ‘kizashi’ at the 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show. This car is sure to cause fever to Honda and Toyota, ya, suzuki’s new concept is not a small car but a smart mid size sedan. The Kizashi – a name meaning ‘prelude’ or ‘foretaste’ – suggests what form Suzuki’s future will take. The D-segment initiative- the kizashi revealed in Frankfurt represents the beginning of the third phase of the world strategy. The main objective of this phase is status. The first phase of the new world strategy was implemented with the focus on ‘Sporty’, a philosophy that resulted in great success with the launch of Swift, Grand Vitara and SX4. The new Splash represents the second phase for Suzuki.

2) Suzuki which was founded in 1909 is regarded as the best small car maker all over the world. But despite the small car sucess, Suzuki has not been able to continue many of the customers to stay with the automaker when purchasing subsequent, larger cars. Suzuki feels obliged to respond to increasing expectations and is convinced that it’s essential to offer a wider product range in order to accommodate customers’ diverse lifestyles. Consequently, Suzuki has decided to expand its lineup to cover all segments from A to D in the next few years. Suzuki’s first-ever D-segment car ‘kizashi’ will stand at the top of the range. Suzuki’s new plan will be reflected in its Indian line-up too.

3) Suzuki which already sources larger cars from General Motors will now make its own D segment car through its kizashi concept. Suzuki targets an uncompromised combination of affordability and emotional appeal with the new kizashi. Suzuki which has already given a sporty hatchback -the Swift Sport plans to carry the same for the D-segment. At the same time, kizashi will ensure the cabin roominess that is essential in the D-segment

4) Though the Suzuki’s kizashi concept is powered by a new 2.0-liter turbo diesel, Suzuki plans to use a hybrid arrangement (an internal combustion engine provides the main propulsion, and an electric motor provides assistance whenever extra power is needed) to achieve environmental compatibility. Kizashi’s dynamic performance will be enhanced all-wheel drive (AWD) a technology that Suzuki has refined over many years.

5) A production version of the Kizashi is slated to appear in 2008, with worldwide sales to start in 2009. Being the Suzuki’s prime market, India will get the kizashi at the same time. In Indian context, Maruti may strap its 1.6L SX4 engine or a 2.0L vitara engine into the kizashi. Suzuki says its Kizashi is planned as the automaker’s future competitor to the Accord and Camry. But Indian news agencies says the ‘big car’(kizashi) from the Maruti Suzuki will compete with the likes of Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla and skoda octavia which comes in a price bracket of Rs 10-12 lakh. Anyway, Maruti Suzuki is not just for your small car needs!

Download Car and Bike Wallpapers

NASA concept car

2009-04-07T00:08:00.000-07:00

The NASA concept car (which, as far as we can tell, has nothing to do with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, though it looks like astronauts are driving it) has some pretty radical features that are immediately appealing. It has a sleek hood rather than doors — keeping the passengers more stable and safe — and dynamic wheels that'll let you pull off hairpin turns, allow the car to move perpendicularly in a snap, and even spin in place. Oh, how we wish a vehicle like this would come out already so we wouldn't have to smash off any more bumpers. And some protection up top for those heads poking out would be nice, too. It was designed by Czech students Marek Kedzierski and Michal Vlček, studying at the Tomas Bata University in Zlín.

BMW ZX-6 Concept

2009-04-06T23:58:00.001-07:00

Transportation Of The Future - BMW ZX-6 Concept

In the past we presented you some impressive cars, motorcycles and other machines which could transport us in the future. Here is another intriguing car concept that was designed by two students of the IED (Istituto Europeo di Design) in Turin. The concept was created in collaboration with BMW and it consists of “Designing the BMW of 2015.”

It’s called BMW ZX-6 and it was designed by Jai Ho Yoo and Lukas Vanek to fulfill all the wishes and the lifestyle of a person. You may think that it looks like a toy, but this is how modern cars will look and the students let their imagination run wild.

In the picture above you can see the BMW Vela Concept designed by Andrea Corona, Alex Mastinu and Yim Sumi. Although it didn’t receive too many praises, I think that it’s really cool and it should be taken into consideration.

The next concept is called BMW Africa and it was inspired by the African lifestyle. The idea of the designers was to create a car that decomposes itself depending on the needs of a person. BMW Africa was envisioned by Raphael Laurent and Mihai Panaitescu, and the concept was appreciated by the IED commission.

The last concept that was welcomed by the “audience” is called BMW SNUG Concept and it’s destined for the people who want simple and fun things in a “chaotic, confusing, grey and polluted” future. SNUG was designed by David Raffai, Kevin Schlaepfer, Andrea Torchia and Alberto Usai, and it would surely bring joy into our lives because “we risk becoming automatons, slaves to money and personal success.”

Hyundai Blue-Will Concept

2009-03-31T07:08:00.000-07:00

Hyundai has revealed the first pictures and information on its Blue-Will Concept, a plug-in hybrid vehicle featuring a parallel powertrain with a 1.6 liter diesel unit and CVT transmission, extensive use of recycled materials, solar panels. It will debut at the Seoul Motor Show.

The Hyundai Blue-Will Concept is powered by an all-aluminium Gasoline Direct Injected 1.6-litre engine.

The unit is coupled to a Continuously Variable Transmission and a 100kw electric motor which is at the heart of its parallel hybrid drive architecture.

The Blue-Will has a five-door hatchback body style with an original design defined by the intersecting character lines on the sides and by the the A and C pillars, which become part of the roof center structure leaving a glass area above the doors.

Electric power is stored in a Lithium Ion Polymer battery pack, bundled with the fuel tank under the rear seat to maximise luggage space.

Recycled PET soft drink bottles were used to make the material for the headlamp bezels while use has also been made of bio-plastics: PLA for the interior while PA11 was specified for the engine cover.

These materials are made from plants extract rather than fossil fuels and are bio-degradable.

The glass area of the panoramic roof integrates dye-sensitized solar cells which can generate power for the batteries from the sun without impeding visibility.

The Blue-Will Concept will debut at the Seoul Motor Show which opens on April 2nd 2009.

(Source: Hyundai)

Mercedes-Benz F-Cell Roadster Concept

2009-03-31T07:01:00.000-07:00

The F-Cell Roadster Concept is design study of a fuel cell vehicle created by 150 trainees at Mercedes-Benz. It combines innovative technologies and solution with large spoked wheels inspired by the 1886 Benz Car.

The F-Cell Roadster Concept was created by the trainees of Daimler AG at the Sindelfingen Mercedes-Benz.

For about a year, more than 150 trainees and dual education system students worked on the overall concept, development, assembly, and completion of the F-CELL Roadster.

This project involved junior employees from the fields of automotive mechatronics, model-building, electronics, coating technology, manufacturing mechanics, product design, and interior appointments.

The prime objective of the project was to integrate the topic of alternative drive systems into training with hands-on experience.

"This project impressively demonstrates that the topic of sustainable mobility has become an integral part of our vocational training," said Human Resources Board member and Labor Relations Manager Günther Fleig.

"I am delighted to see how much initiative and creativity the young people have put into this project."

The F-CELL Roadster combines state-of-the-art technologies with the history of vehicle construction. As an allusion to the Benz Patent Motor Car from 1886, the vehicle is fitted with large spoked wheels.

Moreover, the F-CELL Roadster incorporates stylistic elements from diverse eras of automotive history, such as the carbon-fiber bucket seats with hand-stitched leather covers and the distinctively styled fiberglass front section, based on the component from the Formula One racing bolides.

The F-CELL Roadster is controlled with drive-by-wire technology, and a joystick takes the place of a conventional steering wheel.

The vehicle is powered by the emission-free fuel cell system located at the rear.

With a power rating of 1.2 kW the F-CELL Roadster reaches a top speed of 25 km/h and has an operating range of up to 350 km.

(Source: Mercedes-Benz)

Rally Fighter Interior Design Competition: the winners

2009-03-31T06:11:00.000-07:00

Local Motors has announced the winners of the Rally Fighter Interior Design Competition. The first three prizes were won respectively by Mihai Panaitescu, Artem Popkov and Anthony Collard.

Started back in February, the Rally Fighter Interior Competition is the first interior design contest organized by Local Motors.

The brief was to design a global aesthetic for the first Local Motors production car, the Rally Fighter, designed by Sangho Kim and targeted to American Southwest market.

The grand winner of the contest is Romanian Mihai Panaitescu, who already placed first in the Boston Motors Competition with his “Boston Bullet”, and second in Chicago Motors Competition, and earned the first prize of $2,000.

Mihai’s InteriorConcept features an attractive minimalist aesthetic which includes only the necessary features. It is defined by Local Motors as "difficult but appropriate for a true rally vehicle."

The concept is characterized by the adoption of aluminum panels and other visual links between the interior and exterior, like the door handle shape, which creates an overall pleasing and flight-inspired interior.

The most outstanding feature is the center console, which seems to be floating on wings between the two front seats. The design will set the global tone for the Rally Fighter’s interior.

Russian designer Artem Popkov placed second and earned the $400 prize with his 4CE Project, featuring "a clean and confident design language which lends itself well to the military-style interior."

While simple, this interior is able to incorporate the drivers’ existing, but not built-in, technology, like iPhones, GPS, etc.

Anthony Collard placed third with his Navy Blue project and earned the $200 prize.

This design invigorates a sense of adventure and conquest with a standout orange roll cage, a true cockpit style dashboard, and unobtrusive back seats, which are molded directly into the car’s body.

For more information visit Local Motors.

(Source: Local Motors)

Obama Rolls In An Armored Cadillac Stagecoach

2009-02-18T07:02:00.000-08:00

General Motors has once again built the First Limo, which isn't so much a car as an armored personnel carrier wrapped in Cadillac bodywork. It is code-named "Stagecoach" but given its weight, wheelbase and bunker-like level of protection, Caddy One has been nicknamed "the Beast."

The limo that carries President Obama down Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House today is the latest in a long line of Cadillacs to join the First Fleet over the years. Although GM and the Secret Service jealously guard the vehicle's specs and secrets, you can bet Obama's ride is the toughest, most sophisticated car anywhere. Think of it as the road-going equivalent to Air Force One.

"Although many of the vehicle's security enhancements cannot be discussed, it is safe to say that this car's security and coded communications systems make it the most technologically advanced protection vehicle in the world," Nicholas Trotta, assistant director for the Secret Service Office of Protective Operations, said in a statement (.pdf).

GM had even less to say, noting "one of the specifications is we don't talk about the specifications." But spokesman David Caldwell says the redesigned car "is a fresh, more modern, more expensive" version of the Cadillac DTS that has carried President Bush since his second inauguration in 2005. Obama's car, he says, is "a little bit more vibrant, if you will."

Even if no one's got anything to say about what's under all that armor, there are some things widely believed to be known about Caddy One's security measures.

The car is one of a small fleet of what is believed to be no more than 25 presidential limos General Motors built for the Obama administration, according to the Detroit News. Although presidential limos have a lifespan of about a decade, the Commander in Chief gets a new one about every four years. Hand-me-downs are used to carry the vice president and visiting heads of state.

GM says the car occupies the "same footprint" as the current presidential ride, but it is a little taller and the windows a little bigger to improve visibility. Limo One is believed to weigh between seven and eight tons, and spy shots suggest it rides on a GM medium-duty truck chassis propelled by a diesel engine. The body is sheathed in military-grade armor as much as 8 inches thick on the doors (each of which weighs as much as the cabin door on a Boeing 747, Motor Authority says). The armor reportedly is a mix of dual-hardness steel, aluminum, titanium and ceramic. The windows are ballistic glass said to be 5 inches thick, and Dan Neil of the Los Angeles Times says there's probably a woven Kevlar mat covering the floorboard to protect the car from blasts. The cabin is believed to feature a sealed air recirculation system to protect its occupants from chemical attacks.

"I think he will be surprised about how when he's in the limo, it's a cocoon," Joe Funk, a retired Secret Service agent who served as President Clinton's driver, told CNN. "The everyday noises will be gone, and he will be totally isolated in this protective envelope.

Still, despite being at least as secure as a hardened missile silo, GM says Caddy One features the same hand-sewn leather interior you'd find in the CTS at your local dealership, and supposedly it's got a 10-disc CD player. And, of course, it's packed with the latest communications technology.

"I think he will be surprised at the communication capabilities, how the phones, the satellites, the Internet - everything is at his fingertips," Funk said. "So at one end, you are totally removed from society. The other side of the coin is that he can have any communications worldwide at a moment's touch."

Obama's limo is the latest in long line of presidential cars Cadillac has built in the 100 years since Congress approved funding for a presidential motor pool. President Wilson rode in a Caddy during a parade marking the end of World War I. President Coolidge sported a lavish 1928 Cadillac Town Car, which was among the first Caddys parked at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. It featured a 341 cubic inch engine and a robust (for the time) 90 horsepower.

In 1938, the US government received two Cadillac convertibles, each 21.5 feet long and weighing nearly 8,000 pounds. They were dubbed the "Queen Elizabeth" and the "Queen Mary" after the ocean liners. Each featured back-up generators, two-way radios and an arsenal of weapons. They served presidents Roosevelt, Truman and Eisenhower and were replaced by the Queen Elizabeth II and Queen Mary II, which remained in service until 1968.

Cadillac returned to the White House in 1983, when President Reagan rode around in a Fleetwood famous for being the last equipped with the Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 3-speed automatic transmission. President Clinton rode in a Fleetwood Brougham powered by a 454 cubic inch (7.4 liter) V8.

The largest collection of presidential limos is held by the Henry Ford Museum, but President Bush's limo will not appear in it. The Secret Service has since the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, required that presidential limos be destroyed upon retirement to preserve their secrets.

GYM Concept Car (Generates Powered By Your Exercises)

2008-10-27T11:36:00.001-07:00

The future is coming and in the future, the cars powered by fossil fuels will be forgotten therefore designers will have to come up with new ideas for new types of fuel. While hybrid and solar-powered cars seem to have an advantage, the GYM concept car comes with a new and revolutionary idea: a car which harnesses the energy from your workout.

You might be wondering if you can generate enough energy to power your car, but the thing is that the GYM concept will feature an electrical engine and batteries which will be charged thanks to you. You will be able to do that via a plug-in socket which will be connected to your exercise equipment.

The GYM concept will be an one-seated car and will be made of lightweight materials like molded magnesium alloy and carbon-fiber. The design resembles a fighter aircraft from World War 2 and maybe with all this exercises you are getting ready for war. Just kidding here. Unlike many other concepts, I hope that the GYM car will become a reality in the future.

GYM Concept Car (Generates Powered By Your Exercises)

2008-10-27T11:36:00.000-07:00