21st Century Car!

Toyota FT-HS Concept

Pairing a potent hybrid powertrain with essential sports car fundamentals, the FT-HS concept was a joint undertaking of Calty, Toyota's North American-based, research and design center located in Newport Beach, Calif., and Toyota's California-based Advanced Product Strategy Group. The design team was assigned the task of creating a mid-priced sports car that integrates ecology and emotion in a concept that addresses the question "What is a suitable sports car for the 21st Century?"

"Drivers today are not satisfied with cars that are simply fast," said Kevin Hunter, vice president, Calty Design Research. "In addition to driving enjoyment, today's drivers are concerned about safety, ecology and social responsibility."

The FT-HS incorporates hybrid capability while maintaining sports car essentials, such as a sleek profile, lightweight aero-dynamic materials, and an advanced high-output powertrain for revolutionary acceleration and optimal performance. This 21st century sports car is fun-to-drive with eco-friendly benefits such as ultra-low emissions and fuel efficiency. The FT-HS appeals to an emerging buyer who grew up eco-conscious and perceives technology as a necessity, not a luxury.

This two-plus-two concept is a front-engine, rear-drive sports car with a projected zero-to-60 acceleration in the four-second range. A powerful V6, 3.5L-engine is coupled with a 21st century sports hybrid system with a target power output of approximately 400-horsepower. At a mid-priced market position, FT-HS would be a true "attainable exotic" with 21st Century performance.

FT-HS expresses the core values of a Toyota Brand design strategy that combines two key elements: J-Factor and Vibrant Clarity. J-Factor refers to the local and global acceptance of Japanese-inspired design and cultural sensibilities. Vibrant Clarity is the design language used to express the J-factor much in the same way that L-Finesse is the language of the Lexus Division. It is the combination of perfect imbalance, freeform geometrics and integrated component architecture. The result of these three elements is subtractive mass, a minimalist style that is not only lightweight, but also looks lightweight.

The exterior design was led by Calty designer, Alex Shen. From a design perspective, the theme of the FT-HS achieves sleek, taut surfaces in its exterior features - especially in the doors and body style. The front and rear have been sculpted to remove mass around key functional components. Freeform geometrics define the integration of fluid surfaces contrasting hard-edge "Aero-Corners" which promote smooth airflow and reduce turbulence.

The roof has a distinctive scooped-out section designed to reduce aerodynamic drag and provide head room at the key areas. Made from carbon fiber Kevlar, the roof retracts so that the roof panel and back window pivot fluidly in a downward motion to stow in the rear seat space.

The vehicle's triangular profile has a floating "C" pillar, aero corners, a full upper-body pan, and innovative open top. A hood features a scalloped channel, exposing the hybrid engine. Integrated component architecture can be seen in the aerospace-inspired lighting. The tail lamp unit spans the entire rear, and has an integrated retractable spoiler. Light-emitting diode (LED) clusters are located in the headlamps and the wing for energy-efficiency and decreased heat loss. Other exterior features include a speed-activated wing that elevates at high speed for additional stability and traction. The rear showcases a carbon fiber lower diffuser with integrated wide exhaust and carbon fiber wheels.

The driver-oriented interior was created by Calty designer, William Chergosky and exudes sleekness, technology, and performance. The lean skeletal look is achieved with exposed cross-car architecture and high-tech materials such as carbon fiber, and titanium. FT-HS' interior features create a dedicated driver's cockpit which include subtractive mass expressions such as cross-car instrument panel structure and delta wing driver pod. The delta-wing driver's pod integrates many useful functions into a lightweight structural unit. All of the important functions and details are presented almost exclusively to the driver. For example, touch-trace sensors which surround the driver and act as tactile guides for finger controls when traveling at high speeds.

By eliminating the "B" pillar and creating a suspended "C" pillar, the minimalist style works in conjunction with subtractive mass. An integrated instrument panel surrounds the driver, creating an enclosed pod effect. Armrests flow seamlessly into the door and surrounding interior.

Seating is optimized for a lightweight appearance and function: the seating accommodates four and then coverts to a two-seater when the roof retracts. The passenger-seat area is open with a simple exposed airbag on the cross-car beam.

A telescoping hub-less steering wheel incorporates semi-automatic paddle shifters and allows the meter to be shifted forward in order to shorten the driver's focus-time between the road and meter, and ultimately enhance driver focus.

"FT-HS redefines the sports car experience not only with styling but also in function and performance," said Hunter. "The FT-HS is Toyota's answer to the question 'What is a suitable sports car for the 21st Century?'"

American Muscle!

Ford Interceptor Concept

FORD INTERCEPTOR CONCEPT: CELEBRATING MODERN AMERICAN MUSCLE WITH 'BUILT FORD TOUGH' ATTITUDE

Building on its legacy of bold muscle cars, Ford is introducing a modern, all-American sedan concept that combines "Built Ford Tough" attitude with the sporty elegance of its iconic 1960s sedans.

The Ford Interceptor concept comes equipped with a manual six-speed gearbox mated to a Ford Racing 5.0-liter V-8 Cammer engine that delivers 400 horsepower and runs on E-85 ethanol.

"This concept celebrates the best of American muscle, showing customers what 'modern muscle' is all about," said Peter Horbury, executive director - Design, The Americas. "The Interceptor concept is much like a Marine in dress uniform. He looks smart and elegant but you can see the raw power that lies beneath."

Flexing Modern Muscle

The Ford Interceptor concept's exterior design features substantial, sometimes brutish, surfaces and sections that give the concept its modern, powerful look.

The Mustang-based concept features a traditional rear-wheel drive proportion that includes a short front overhang, long rear overhang and extended dash-to-axle ratio.

The Ford Interceptor also has a low cabin and higher beltline, adding to the vehicle's attitude and sense of mystery.

"The Ford Interceptor concept is a pure sedan that speaks to performance car lovers everywhere," said Freeman Thomas, director, North American Strategic Design. "These people might need more space, but they still appreciate the power and attitude that cars like this represent,"

Painted a deep blue, the Ford Interceptor concept's strength exudes from its strong, high shoulders. And much like on last year's Ford F-250 Super Chief pickup concept, a single character line runs the length of the body side, slightly sloping downward as it reaches the back of the sedan.

This adds wedge to the car, making it dynamic, without detracting from its smooth, clean design.

Signature Ford touches include the horizontal three-bar grille, which has been structurally integrated into the bumper beam, as well as "squircles" - or professionally square circle-shaped graphics - inside and out.

As a nod to performance purists, the ultimate muscle lies under the powered clamshell "shaker" hood, which caps a thoroughly detailed engine compartment that houses a 5.0-liter V-8 Cammer engine.

This is an upgraded variant of the 4.6-liter engine under the hood of the current production Mustang GT. The Cammer modular engine powered Ford Racing's FR500C race car to the top of the Grand Am Cup's GS class, achieving five victories on its way to the Drivers, Manufacturers and Team Championships in its first season of competition.

The Interceptor concept's Cammer engine is mated to a manual six-speed transmission. The car, equipped with 22-inch wheels, also features a solid rear axle for more hard-core performance feel.

Attitude Within

Inside, the Ford Interceptor concept is sleek and thoroughly modern, completed in contrasting black leather and metal finishes.

The dash, headliner and thick steering wheel are leather-wrapped. Plus, the Interceptor concept's four low-back bucket seats are wrapped in thick black belt leather with exposed-edge seams and contrasting caramel stitching. The seats are accented with Ford GT-inspired squircle grommets finished with Titan Metal painted inserts.

Squircle accents are repeated in the concept's door trims, floor, console and instrument panel.

Designed within a pair of squircles, the speedometer and tachometer are eye-catching. The needles for both start at center and move opposite each other as the speed and RPM climb.

Other clever touches include retractable headrests that deploy from the roof when the car is parked. They adjust fore and aft, as well as up and down for each occupant. Audio control panel and climate controls also are stowable.

On the other hand, the gated six-speed shifter is exposed, just waiting to be thrown into gear.

"The Interceptor concept is a sedan - but with the heart and soul of a performance car," Thomas said. "This car is about restraint - and not clouding the driving experience with too much technology. There aren't a lot of layers between the driver and the road with this car."

Safer travels

For safety, the Interceptor concept incorporates Ford's patented four-point "belt and suspenders" safety belt design in all four seats and inflatable seat belts in the rear.

While current three-point safety belts are extremely effective in reducing the risk of injury in a crash, Ford Motor Company is researching these two potential safety belt technologies as possible ways to further reduce injury risk in vehicle crashes.

A number of technical challenges still need to be overcome before such restraint systems could ever be used, but these technologies might one day further enhance safety belt effectiveness.

The four-point belt showcases a possible next-generation safety belt that is more comfortable and easier to use than traditional three-point belts, according to consumer research. Additionally, inflatable belts have been included in the rear seat of the concept to help better protect occupants in a variety of crashes.

"Our customer target for this powerful masculine sedan was a man with a family," Horbury said. "He's essentially a good guy, but a bit mischevious. He loves power and performance. But ultimately, he's responsible. When he has his family on board, he values new safety technology as well as a powerful engine that runs on E-85 ethanol."

Small Does't Mean Small!

Ford Reflex Concept

Bold, American Design

The North American market for small vehicles will grow 5 percent per year through 2008 to reach more than one-third of all cars sold.

Reflex underscores the bold, American design direction for all Ford vehicles going forward. It also is packed with Ford innovation.

"Ford Reflex is a small car that doesn't feel small," says Freeman Thomas, director, North American Strategic Design. "It is a gorgeous sporty car that delivers guilt free performance with a hybrid engine. And thanks to its innovative approach to the interior, it has space for growing families."

Reflex is set off with Ford's three-bar grille - made of high-strength anodized extruded aluminum, which is hand polished to a matte finish. The concept's shoulder line flows upward to the B-pillar and back down into the wheel arch. Reverse butterfly doors aid vehicle ingress and egress.

The vehicle's low-voltage circuitry is exposed beneath the glass roof and rear hatch, giving a clever nod to accessible technology - even as a fashion statement. The roof also features self-powered solar fans that cool the car when parked.

The Ford Reflex concept showcases exposed low-voltage circuitry on the roof glass and rear hatch.
Reflex's aggressive 20-inch wheels are polished alloy. The large diameter, narrow width and unique Michelin tire design provide low-roll resistance for improved fuel economy.

Kid-Inspired Interior

Lightweight, space-efficient materials define the interior with its innovative 2+1 backseat configuration. Mesh seat covers are transparent and sheer, offering maximum airflow for comfort and style. Unexpected colors - red and robotic white - create a sense of warmth and accessibility.

The interior of the Ford Reflex concept features lightweight inner seat frames wrapped in mesh. The white mesh fabric is offset with warm red carpeting.

The cockpit comes alive with keyless activation. At the touch of a button, the instrument cluster controls appear in a cool blue hue as organic light-emitting diodes (LEDs) switch on.

Located in the center console, touch-screen technology helps reduce driver distraction. Shift paddles that control the 6-speed semiautomatic transmission are tucked behind the steering wheel.

"The interior of Reflex is modern, with no wood and leather," says Thomas. "The color and materials challenge many of today's dark plastic interiors by offering a blend of warm and cool colors. It is a fresh approach that will inspire future trends in many industries, including fashion and home furnishings."

The back seat offers the ultimate in small-car flexibility. A second-row "love seat" can accommodate two children or one adult. With a push of a button, a divider bar raises through the seat bottom, transforming one seat into two.

Rear-seat passengers also have the luxury of watching their favorite movie on two small flat-screen monitors mounted to the lower portion of the front seatbacks. Like the front seats, the rear seats feature mesh wrapped around a lightweight inner frame.

Advanced Safety in a Small Package

Ford's experimental inflatable safety belts provide a broader contact area with the potential to spread impact forces across the chest, further reducing the chances of injury. The small, tubular-shaped inflatable bag deploys inside the shoulder belt in the event of a crash.

Reflex takes safety innovation a major step forward. Advanced safety technologies include inflatable safety belts and BeltMinder™ for backseat passengers. The inflatable safety belt helps reduce injury risk to second-row occupants. Ford's patented BeltMinder™ technology alerts the driver when second-row occupants are not buckled up.

Reflex also is equipped with side air curtains. The love seat is fitted with an integrated rear-facing child safety seat.

Understanding that the responsibilities of a parent don't end once the car starts, Reflex designers added a strategically placed "baby cam" in the headliner. From this vantage point, the driver can see streaming video images of the rear-seat occupants.

Sporty and Green

Reflex features an advanced diesel-electric hybrid propulsion system that harnesses diesel, electric and solar power. This combination of power can deliver maximum fuel economy - up to 65 mpg - without compromising performance.

The concept features an electric motor on the rear axle in addition to the hybrid propulsion system on the front axle. The rear motor provides all-wheel-drive capability, improved driving dynamics and the fuel economy benefits of a full hybrid vehicle.

The Ford Reflex concept features solar panels in the headlamps and taillamps that recharge the hybrid-electric battery pack, and solar panels in the roof that power electric fans to cool the interior while the vehicle is parked.

Reflex's energy is stored in a new-generation lithium-ion battery pack, using the same technology found in cell phones. Ford was the first manufacturer to produce an electric vehicle using this type of battery system when it introduced the electric Ford Ka research vehicle in 2000. Also contributing to Reflex's power and performance are unique headlamps and taillamps that integrate solar panels. The Ford-patented battery-charging lighting system improves fuel economy by using the sun's power to charge the on-board batteries, while capturing and reusing the daylight at night.

Reflex also uses ground rubber from scrap athletic shoes, called Nike Grind, as insulation to reduce noise and vibration in the car's interior.

The "Entertainment" !

Nissan Bevel Concept

The Nissan Bevel Concept is a dynamic, multi-purpose vehicle that, unlike currently available sport utility vehicles or minivans that emphasize passenger needs and comfort, places its focus strictly on the primary user - male empty-nesters actively engaged in hobbies, recreation and community service. Bevel offers unique, function-inspired asymmetrical styling, a high-utility three-zone interior and technology ranging from glass roof-mounted solar panels to drive-by-wire steering, throttle and braking.

Bevel's exterior design begins with the two passenger-side doors, featuring a rear door hinged at the rear to provide an exceptionally wide door opening of nearly five-and-a-half feet. Bevel's tall one-piece rear hatch features a special horizontal hinge arrangement, with a height when raised of 6'2" from the ground. With the hatch open, a special tailgate-like work platform folds down and snaps into place, creating a sturdy workbench-like area.

Bevel features a pair of power outlets - a traditional 12V outlet and a 110V power tool recharging outlet, which is powered by Bevel's integrated solar cells mounted beneath the large glass roof panels. Bevel also utilizes a unique roof cargo system designed to carry loads up to 250 pound and featuring six hexagon-shaped "pucks" with pop-up hooks.

Bevel's interior combines comfort, utility and technology. The driver's area includes a comfortable, rich leather-appointed fixed seat and Bevel's unique "ribbon" instrument panel, which moves four inches forward and back when the driver's door is opened or closed.

The "command central" information/technology zone features a series of screens that display images from the sideview mirror cameras and five information menus - Vehicle Information, HVAC, Navigation, Entertainment and Home - through use of the ribbon-mounted controller.

The "Entertainment" control center allows the driver to access phone settings, weather and traffic reports, Internet and personal e-mail accounts, and music, while also allowing the driver to access a home network and monitor locks and security system, heat and air conditioning, appliance, room lighting and garage door status.

Bevel's utility/pet zone provides maximum cargo space through the use of fold-flat front passenger and rear bench seating that crates a smooth, continuous cargo floor/work area. The flooring itself is constructed from laminated recycled walnut, creating an extremely hard, workbench-like surface.

Bevel provides unique accommodations for pets, including a 360-degree pet leash swivel connection point and a large, removable "doggie hutch" pet carrier designed to fit securely in the rear cargo area.

Conceptually, Bevel would feature a small, efficient 2.5-liter V6 with HEV, combining driving pleasure with environmentally friendly design.

A Pretty Diamond!

Nissan Mixim Concept

The Mixim concept car is a compact vehicle for young drivers who are mostly engaged by their computer and the world via the internet. The driver sits centrally, with two seats either side, while the steering wheel and controls are inspired by the interfaces so familiar to computer gamers.

Powered by Nissan's 'Super Motor' electric motor/generator and using compact lithium-ion batteries, Mixim has unusually rapid performance combined with a usefully extended range. One Super Motor powers the front axle and a second drives the rear axle, giving Mixim all-wheel drive.

Mixim takes the most up-to-date electric vehicle (EV) technology and clothes it in a svelte and distinctive coupé shape. Its wraparound windscreen, inspired by the visor of a crash helmet, dominates the profile while the swept back windscreen, flowing roofline and sharply truncated rear hints at sporting performance unexpected from an electric vehicle.

Diamond-shaped styling cues feature inside and out, notably on the twin air intakes to the rear of the doors and the front LED driving lights, while an upper triangular side window links the gentle slope of the roof with the dramatic angular slash that runs through the centre of the doors. The rear hatch opens to reveal a large trunk area behind the three seats. An occasional fourth seat is also housed behind the front seat module.

Sitting on a 2530mm wheelbase, Mixim is 3700mm long, 1800mm wide and 1400mm high, the Mixim is shorter and lower than Micra, though slightly wider. It weighs just 950kgs.

Despite being a concept car with no guarantee of being turned into a series production model, Mixim's development is in line with the Nissan Green Program, the company's publicly stated desire to create a more sustainable mobile society.

Throughout the show, the Mixim will be driving from a low stage via a ramp to an elevated display platform on the Nissan stand.

Power And Elegance!

Nissan Foria Concept

The Foria is a compact coupe concept targeted at customers looking for performance, elegance and high quality.

Emphasis placed on quality

The feeling one experiences when seeing or touching well-designed and crafted objects was uppermost in the minds of the Foria design team. That concept was projected throughout the exterior and interior with the aim of creating a car whose value cannot be measured just in terms of specifications or performance figures.

Fun-to-drive package

The Foria is packaged as a compact 2+2 coupe. The front-engine, rear-drive layout allows an exceptionally short front overhang, long hood and compact cabin. These styling features, together with the neatly-styled rear and 18-inch wheels positioned at the four corners, result in a car that is not only pleasing to look at but also delivers driving pleasure. Powered by a mid-sized engine and paddle-shift automatic transmission, the powertrain promises agile driving in town, as well as fully engaging performance when traveling on more open roads. Four-wheel Active Steer gives reassuring precision and steering feel at all driving speeds.
Center-opening, B-pillarless doors have been adopted for effortless access to the rear seats in the coupe body style. The large door openings make it easy to get in and out of the rear seats despite the sporty position of the front seats.

Elegance and sportiness

The exterior styling lends an air of elegance to the car. An integrated grille and headlamps form a powerful front face. The headlamps are a combination of precision technology and jewelry-like quality, with deep blue lenses reminiscent of cut-sapphires.
A horizontal body-line motif along the sides conveys an image of power and elegance. The aluminum moldings reflect the wrap-around window shape while the outside mirrors and door handles express a sense of elegance.
The curved rear of the Foria serves to heighten the car's overall dynamism. The slim, elegant character lines around the back and the crystal-like expression of the rear combination lamps lend a refined atmosphere to the overall appearance.

Strong sense of driving purpose

While the interior design reinforces the car's dynamic potential, the accent is on elegance. The control switches on the center stack and the instruments are designed to appeal to those who love mechanical instruments and to capture the spirit of traditional silver halide cameras. That feeling combines with a sporty driving position to convey a strong sense of driving purpose. The multifunction dial commander and large function switches in the middle of the center stack are designed to reduce the driver's workload substantially, while providing multifunctional capabilities.
The instrument panel, center stack and door trim are embellished with thick saddle-like leather which is smooth to the touch and has a carefully designed texture. In combination with the metal parts, the result is a fusion of sportiness and elegance. The hand-stitched seams around the edges convey a warmth characteristic of hand-made articles. A dimpled surface pattern, inspired by Japan's traditional inden leather craftsmanship, is used on the steering wheel grips, the back of the shift paddles, the gearshift knob and other surfaces.
The interior is finished in a lustrous gray sports jersey fabric that combines with the brown leather of the instrument panel and other trim parts, as well as the ivory-colored front seats, to project a contemporary look.
The wide dashboard monitor is positioned for minimal change in the driver's line of sight and its exceptional width is used to good advantage to display all the distances of the recommended route in one screen. In addition, the monitor can be used selectively, such as for simultaneously displaying a navigation map and point-of-interest (POI) information which can be obtained live while driving.

Get The REMIX!

Honda REMIX Concept

Honda REMIX Concept Shines Brightly at Los Angeles Auto Show

The Honda REMIX small sport concept vehicle made its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today. The REMIX explores the shape and design of a two-seat sports car focused on agile and fun-to-drive performance that can also provide exceptional practicality as a daily driver.

Sports car in shape and design, the low-slung REMIX features a wrap-around canopy that adds a fighter jet-feel to the driving experience. The aluminum-color exterior accentuates every line and curve in the geometric, yet fluid styling. Capable of delivering more than just driving performance, the rear storage area supplies generous cargo room.

"Pure Honda to the core, the REMIX concept vehicle focuses on a simple, lightweight and fun-to-drive philosophy," said John Mendel, senior vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "The concept balances sports car virtues with real-world practicality."

The REMIX Small Sport Concept is a product of the Honda R&D Americas, Inc., Advanced Design Studio in Southern California. Purely a design concept, the vehicle is fashioned around a front-wheel drive small car platform with a 4-cylinder engine and a 6-speed manual transmission. A sport suspension, along with aggressive tires and brakes, further supplement its performance side.

"The REMIX blends familiar Honda themes into a new, fresh design," said Ben Davidson, REMIX lead designer, Honda R&D Americas, Inc. "Smooth and fluid surfaces provide a sports car identity to the geometric shapes that form the functional aspect of this vehicle."

Honda R&D Americas, Inc., began its operations in California in 1975 with local market research activities and has steadily grown its capabilities over the past 30 years to include all aspects of new vehicle design and development. Recent development efforts include trend-setting products like the Honda Ridgeline, Pilot, Element, Civic Coupe and Civic Si.

The company will operate 10 major facilities in North America with the addition of two new design centers by the end of 2007. More than 1,300 designers, engineers and support personnel are engaged in the development of Honda and Acura passenger cars, motorcycles and power equipment products for North America and global markets. Its main centers of operation include the Los Angeles Center (Torrance) responsible for market research, concept development and styling design; the Ohio Center (Raymond, Ohio) responsible for complete product development, testing and support of North American supplier and manufacturing operations; and two dynamic test facilities in Mojave Desert, California, and East Liberty, Ohio.