At the Geneva Motor Show we spotted a CUV and we felt that we have to say a few words about it – the Hyundai HED-5 i-Mode. This concept is a 6-seat monocab powered by 2.2-liter two-stage turbocharged R diesel engine which produces 212 HP and 340 lb-ft of torque.For more informations about this concept you can read the full press release after the jump and you also should check out the gallery below.

Gallery: Hyundai HED-5 i-Mode Concept

PRESS RELEASE

Hyundai Unveils new concept car HED-5 “i-Mode”

• 6-seater monocab study
• High end materials and advanced eco-dynamics
• World premiere of a unique Swivel Seat concept
• Futuristic communications and entertainment system
• World debut of 2.2-liter R Diesel engine with 2-stage turbocharging

GENEVA – Mar. 6, 2008 – At the Geneva International Motor Show Hyundai Motor Co. will introduce the HED-5 “i-Mode”. The focus for this year’s concept car is a combination of visionary styling with future technologies and advanced eco-dynamics. It lead to a 6-seater monocab study that incorporates high-tech materials, a world premiere seating concept and state of the art communication solutions into a completely new vehicle impression. The i-Mode is an innovatively styled, eco-friendly and socially adaptive vehicle. The imposing mono-volume architecture provides an invitation to travel, explore and relax within the concept of moving cocoon.

By working together with the partners Bayer MaterialScience AG, Keiper and LG Electronics, Hyundai is continuing a cross-industry co-operation to drive new technologies faster to market. The co-operation with Bayer MaterialScience enabled the complex curvature and radical design departures of the HED-5 innovations to be implemented more quickly. The materials used are lighter and more adaptable than the metal and glass they replace. This, in combination with a light weight body construction, reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emission. Self-healing water based bodywork finishes from Bayer add to the environmentally friendly concept of the vehicle and even let minor scratches magically disappear by themselves. The i-Mode is the first vehicle to feature the new “BayVision” glazing system and Collimator headlight lenses made from Makrolon®.

Through the advanced multimedia and entertainment concept developed by LG electronics, the vehicle becomes an extension of the digital home, allowing passengers to stay connected, communicate and interact in the car and beyond. Access to the web, video games, movies or video calling are all possible through the pop-down touch-screen displays and webcams, located within the overhead console. A wireless network enables a selection of cable-free keyboards, game controllers and headphones to further personalise the entertainment experience. The advanced developments seen on the i-Mode give a dynamic indication of real possibilities for the near future.

Hyundai’s engineering partner Keiper supported the i-Mode project with the exclusive world premiere of its new and unique Swivel Seat concept. The first row passenger seat cleverly rotates to face second and third row occupants. When the seat is turned in a flowing movement, the backrest converts into an equally comfortable seat surface. This is made possible by a fully concealed, power-operated kinematic system. The integrated seatbelt system – another technically advanced debut – and the adjustable headrest maximize passive safety for passengers in either sitting position. The second row bench slides rearwards to increase comfort and create a social space for communication. This seat concept intelligently avoids problems of complex or flexible seat mounting weaknesses.

The i-Mode design

Exterior

The sculptural profile is mainly characterised by the wedged body side in combination with a generous, rounded rear, giving the impression of a bow under tension. The vehicle portrays a clever combination of convex and concave surfaces directly inspired from nature. These forms have enabled a powerful, dynamic stance to be achieved devoid of aggressive sentiment. The choice of colour and level of finish provides a rich, warm radiance, with an open and almost translucent appearance.

The shoulder of the car divides the green house from a muscular body side, twisting towards the rear to increase tension and to create an intriguing highlight play. The shape of the wheel arches place emphasis on the door openings as an invitation to access the spacious interior. An innovative mechanism enables the practicability of a sliding door free of conventional inner and outer guide rails. When the doors are opened, the lack of a B post enables a feeling of space and remarkable accessibility to the generous interior.

The arched pillars and the high waist line are underlined by an elegant aluminium garnish reflecting Hyundai’s playful and dynamic design language. The finish also emphasizes one of the most unusual features of the exterior, namely the negative B and C posts, combined with almond shaped quarter light windows fore and aft. The front window revives an innovative approach, rotating in a manner typical of historic vehicles of the past.

Nature is one of the key influences for the Hyundai design team and new plastic materials have enabled exploration of unconventional and irregular shapes. The fundamental architecture of the exterior shape is symbolized by an external frame embracing the protected volume within, like a shell. This concept also demonstrates the increasing awareness Hyundai has towards environmental issues. Cooperation with Bayer Material Science has seen use of the innovative glazing alternative ‘Makrolon’, enabling the car to have extended transparent areas, reducing weight and increasing fuel economy.

A view from above illustrates a compelling negative section running from the bonnet and continuing over the roof, creating an unusual auxiliary brake lamp, before eventually fading out in the tailgate. On the bonnet, the feature line develops through the surface where it visually connects to the dashboard design in a logical manner showing the will of the designers to create a coherent, uniform design.

The flowing form encapsulates the hexagonal shaped grill which symbolizes our new brand identity for Europe. The theme of the grill mesh is a fragmented, irregular structure which is also adopted within the boomerang shaped rear lamp, generating a lasting impression. The boomerang theme is also evident within the small floating wings of the wheel design, mimicking the dynamic whirl of a turbine.

These unique features, previously showcased on earlier Hyundai concept cars including the Genus of 2006, demonstrate the consistency in developing a coherent design language. It is through such characteristics that Hyundai aim to enhance the perceived quality and recognition of our products.


Interior

Through the innovative door opening mechanism, the interior is exposed as an inviting landscape of softly sculpted shapes and advanced technology in the form of a lounge compartment. The interior represents the concept of an encapsulated social space, an intimate environment where all occupants can enjoy safe travel in comfort, surrounded by sophisticated technology and luxurious materials.

The first step into the car reveals the elegant application of selected natural materials wrapping over sculptural seat shells and the wide, floating dashboard. Soft, silky leather in warm and natural brown tones give the interior level of comfort normally experienced in home interiors. In contrast to the natural materials, these components also partially reveal refined gloss surfaces as a modern expression of lightweight precision. The floor consists of blue felt piercing through the precision cut scratch-resistant leather tiles, emphasizing the flowing design concept whilst simulating the refined image of luxury boat deck. The felt textile provides a comfortable climate within the interior, regulating the humidity whilst complementing the first impression of an enticing, relaxing atmosphere.

Attention is immediately drawn to the seats which offer first class comfort for all occupants, combining a modern, floating look with innovative functionality. The Cognac leather cushions embrace the burgundy lacquered seat structure enabling the occupants to experience the lounge atmosphere without the limitations of a conventional automotive interior layout.

The dashboard and door trim panels are designed in a clean, unobtrusive manner to further enhance the feel of space and comfort. The simplicity of shapes and graphic symmetries convey a theme of harmony and relaxation.

The leather wrapped steering wheel invites the driver to focus for a moment on his tactile senses whilst diffused blue illumination, emanating through innovative translucent panels in the doors and dashboard instruments, complete this special atmosphere of serenity. Metallic details display an authentic appearance, highlighted with a special lacquer to echo the brilliance and depth of finish found on grand pianos.

The light beige headliner, which continues through into the pillars, provides the interior with a floodlit, almost roofless panoramic appearance. The horizontal trim colour division, between dark and light tones further emphasizes this impression, maintaining a harmonic contrast.

All-new R Diesel with Two-Stage Turbocharging

i-Mode is powered by an all-new 2.2-liter R diesel engine which, in a novel concept, first passes the intake air through a low-pressure turbocharger from where it is forced into a high-pressure turbocharger for maximum boost: 158kw (215ps) and 47kg.m of peak torque (461 Nm), an astonishing figure which endows the R Engine with a power density in excess of 70kw per liter putting Hyundai diesel technology in the same class as any leading German automaker. When its low-end torque of 30kg.m is compared with the 19kg.m of low-end torque delivered by the standard R Engine, one quickly appreciates the value of dual-stage turbocharging.
The R Engine is mated to a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic gearbox. Even at maximum loads, the engine does not incur fuel consumption penalties thanks to its high capacity for exhaust gas recirculation which also benefits efforts to reduce NOx emissions. The R Engine is assured of meeting future, more stringent EU-5/6 exhaust emission standards. Mass production of the R Engine is scheduled to begin with the standard (single turbocharged) version in 2009 with the dual-stage turbocharged edition arriving in the first half of 2011.

BMW kept its promise and unveiled the X5 Vision EfficientDynamics Concept at the Geneva Motor Show and I am proud to say that we gave you a preview a few days ago. We also have to remind you that this concept car is a hybrid powered by a twin-turbo 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. The green X5 also features a 1 square meter photovoltaic solar panel mounted on the roof. Check out the gallery below consisting of live photos from the Geneva Motor Show.

Gallery: BMW X5 Vision EfficientDynamics Hybrid Concept

Renault worked hard to develop a new sports car and they needed to finish on time for the Geneva Motor Show. We already anticipated the unveiling of the Alpine Concept, but at the show they presented the Megane Coupe so we think Alpine was just a codename.

Looking at the Megane Coupe, I said to myself that Renault finally did it – they successfully designed and developed a sports car. Check out the gallery below and I am sure you will approve me.

Gallery: Renault Megane Coupe Concept

Every year all automakers are trying to refresh the air in their garage, so the perfect way to launch their products are the auto show and if it’s one of the best in the world it’s even better. This year at Geneva Motor Show, Mitsubishi unveiled its Prototype-S. This model is powered by a 2.0-liter supercharged four-cylinder engine which produces 240 HP and 252 lf-ft of torque. This concept is scheduled to enter in production phase as of next year. If you think they might be rushing with this decision, you should read the full press release and check out the gallery below with live photos.

Gallery: Mitsubishi Prototype S

PRESS RELEASE

MITSUBISHI PROTOTYPE-S

- The Color Orange -

What’s in a color ?…

In the case of “orange”, adjectives such as lively, warm, enthusiastic, creative, energetic, successful, stimulating but also polarizing come to mind, all things that do very much apply to Mitsubishi Motors Corporation in 2008…
Right-brained and different, MMC embodies these traits through an all-new range of cars, each of them supported by an iconic figure on a mission:

- Lancer Evolution: Sporting spirit
- “i”: Green (orange ?…) vision
- Pajero: 4-Wheel Drive expertise

Perhaps the most potent symbol of this positive corporate & brand mindset, “Project Global” has already proved its worth through the success of Lancer Sports Sedan, New Outlander and Delica D:5, the first products based on this all-new global architecture.

Europe

Launched in certain selected markets late last year and very well received, the stylish all-new Lancer Sports Sedan already started to bring its own contribution to Mitsubishi Motors commercial perfor-mance in Europe with 6,576 sales (to end of December 2007).

First member of the new Lancer family, it will be followed in the market by a full set of siblings, including Lancer Evolution, Lancer Ralliart and the sleek Lancer Sportback, together with its sportier Lancer Sportback Ralliart derivative.

When launched later in the year, this 5-door hatchback will be the most important variant of all in Europe, representing 70% of the forecasted Lancer volume in the region.

Right Brain

Prior to this most important introduction, Prototype-S previews the shape of things to come…

Just as Prototype-X (2007 Detroit) was a near real-life expression of Concept-X (2005 Tokyo) announ-cing the new Lancer Sports Sedan and Lancer Evolution, Prototype–S follows up today the much-acclaimed Concept-Sportback show car (2005 Frankfurt), signalling the future arrival of the Mitsubishi C/D segment hatchback.

Building on the same assets of racing heritage, sharp design, rewarding driving dynamics and “right-brain” take at the market, Prototype-S hits the same emotional / non-mainstream buttons as Lancer Sports Sedan, albeit in a hatchback format, benchmarking the likes of Alfa Romeo with the 156 / 159 Sportwagons (dynamic benchmark) and of Saab with the legendary Saab 900 Turbo Combi-Coupé (aspirational benchmark).

Tonic

Sporting a very tonic metallic orange, the 458,5 cm Prototype-S adds the convenience of a liftgate and of flexible rear seating to the driving dynamics of the new Lancer range.

Essentially a productionized version of the original Concept-Sportback, Prototype-S remains close to its inspiration.

At the front, it uses a further variation of Lancer’s trademark “Jet Fighter” grille featuring a full matt black finish, mesh inserts and chrome surround. It its flanked either sides with additional air intakes incor-porating boomerang-shaped fog lights. Further distinguishing features include a Lancer Evolution-type hood, specific headlamps and 19″ five-spoke alloy wheels.

At the rear, Prototype-S follows the same design theme explored in 2005 with Concept-Sportback with a very fast lift-gate surmounted by Sportback’s characteristic color-keyed roof spoiler. Elongated rear combination lamps widen the stance of the car as they warp around the rear fenders. A feature on their own, they sign a neat bumper/fender shut line that runs exactly parallel to the rear door opening.

Inside, Prototype-S displays a very continental flair with its italianate twin-hood meters, the black suede finish of the upper dashboard & door panels or the light brown-colored leather selected for its upholstery, in plain, perforated or weaved finish according to the area covered.

Of course, the meters are orange lit…

Fast Lane

Mirroring its aspirations, a sporty wedge-like profile, sharply chiselled lines, assertive stance born from long wheelbase / wide track proportions, a high-shouldered rear end or the very expressive rear roof spoiler will embody Mitsubishi’s vision for a flexible sports sedan in the C/D sector, away from the traditional hatchbacks.
Fittingly, Prototype-S will blend elements from Concept-Sportback (overall concept), Lancer Evolution (execution) and Lancer Ralliart (240 ps / 343 Nm 2.0 l turbo engine, Twin Clutch SST gearbox, full-time 4WD drivetrain featuring Mitsubishi Motors’ Active Center Differentia or “ACD”).

Let’s take a moment of our time to take a look to a car which is not related and will not show up for the Geneva Motor Show. The reason why we present you this Mercedes-Benz is that the German automaker has developed a new hybrid system. The new S400 BlueHybrid will be powered by a 3.5-liter V6 petrol engine along with the 15kW electric engine.

The novelty consists of the fact that this hybrid will be the first to use lithium ion battery. Also the S400 BlueHybrid is the most economical sedan in NEDC (city and highway driving) by managing about 30 miles per gallon. This Hybrid Concept will be available as of 2009 with the ML450 two-mode hybrid system in the U.S. and Europe.

Source

After we posted many good news about the cars and manufacturers that will come at the Geneva Motor Show, now we bring you some bad news: Pagani announced that the Zonda-R will not make its appearance to Geneva. The 750 HP and carbon-fiber super car will not show up because Pagani has to concentrate on other important projects.

If it were to believe “the talk of the town”, the automaker can’t bring any model because they sold all of them in order to cover their investment costs for manufacturing the sports car.

We don’t know the truth, but we are really disappointed because this is one of the coolest sports car. The gallery below will prove it.

The upcoming Geneva Motor Show, by the way it’s the 78th edition of the famous show, will be full of concept cars which is not so bad considering the fact that most of them are really cool. Another “concept-maker” called Webasto announced that they will show up with the LigHT Concept at Geneva and they will self-praise with the Light Hybrid Top (a roof concept) and with the Liquid Heat Generator (LHG) which is an auxiliary heating system.

The Geneva Motor Show will open for public as of 6th March and we will bring you more infos then and we will try to get our hands on a photo gallery, but until then follow the press release after the jump.

PRESS RELEASE

Webasto at the Geneva Motor Show 2008

Presentation of the Webasto LigHT (Light Hybrid Top) roof concept and the LHG (Liquid Heat Generator) auxiliary heating system are highlights of Webasto’s appearance at the show

Stockdorf/Munich – 12 February 2008 –

Webasto is exhibiting at the 78th Geneva Motor Show taking place 6 – 16 March 2008, new products from its two business groups Convertible, Roof & Body (CRB) and Global Comfort Solutions (GCS) will be presented under the motto “Moving Innovations” in Hall 5, Stand 5132. The CRB input is the new “Webasto LigHT Concept” – an innovative roof concept featuring a hybrid top with a new material mix – which will be shown on a roadster design study. The contribution from GCS is the Liquid Heat Generator (LHG), a newly developed auxiliary heating system which generates heat, which occurs through turbulence in the engine coolant, and is regulated by an intelligent hydraulic performance control.

In addition, three creative and dynamic 1:4-scale convertible roof models provide a glance into the automotive future; they are the result of a design study carried out by Webasto in cooperation with Munich University’s Faculty of Design. Under the motto “The roof of the future”, the potential designers had the opportunity to unleash their fantasy and develop studies beyond the classic convertible body styles. Furthermore, the company is also displaying the world’s largest polycarbonate roof, exclusively developed for the smart fortwo and to date fitted in 100,000 series vehicles.

On the public days at the show, Webasto will be offering end customers a wealth of information on its current range of after market products in the areas of parking heater systems and sliding roofs for passenger cars.

Well, it seems like Ford is very determined to “monopolise” all car classes and they plan to do it at the Geneva Motor Show. After the Fiesta Concept and the 2009 Mondeo, they announced the Kuga Concept, the first CUV destined for European Market.

The Kuga has a platform similar with the ones of the C-Max and Euro-Focus; the engine is a 2.0-liter Duratorq TDCi common rail diesel which produces 136 HP and 236 lb-ft of torque. The standard version offers to its buyers ABS, Anti Rollover Mitigation, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and ESP.

As we told, the Kuga CUV Concept will be present at Geneva, but until then you can check the gallery below and be sure that we will give more pics in a few days from the auto show.

Finally we get something we want – Italdesign Giugiaro has released high-res pics of the Quaranta Concept just before Geneva Motor Show. We’ve been expecting this for a long time for the concept based on the 1968 Bizzarrini Manta Concept for its looks and on the Toyota Prius for its engine.

The Hybrid Synergy Drive completed with the 3.3-liter V6 engine produces 268 HP and 212 lb-ft of torque, enough to boost the Quaranta from 0 to 60 in just 4.05 seconds. Another design and tech cool characteristic is the solar power-generating roof. The design of the concept is simply astonishing and it will surely draw everybody’s attention at the upcoming auto show.

Check out the gallery below and follow the full press release after the jump.

Source

PRESS RELEASE

ITALDESIGN GIUGIARO QUARANTA CONCEPT POWERED BY TOYOTA HYBRID SYNERGY DRIVE

Uncompromising innovation in Giugiaro tradition

An “extreme”, clean-technology project embodying 40 years of styling research and engineering celebrated by Italdesign Giugiaro in Geneva

The “Quaranta” project is a concept car designed to celebrate Italdesign Giugiaro’s forty years of business in styling and technological research at the service of the automotive sector. The Quaranta, world-premiered at the 2008 Geneva International Motor Show, is a synthesis of Italdesign Giugiaro’s unmatched experience of automotive design: from city cars to super sports-cars, from MPVs to medium-engined saloons up to and including luxury flagships and environment-friendly SUV, not to mention light/heavy duty commercial vehicles, in complete cooperation with leading manufacturers all over the world.

The Quaranta is an “extreme” product, an environment-friendly, 4WD super sports-car which incorporates a series of innovative aspects: its styling, but also its drive technology, which combines a hybrid engine with solar energy, and its internal layout which, despite its mid-mounted rear engine, can accommodate three adults and a child, also providing a generous luggage compartment.

The idea which inspired the Quaranta project is that of the first single-volume concept car with central engine and drive. The original reference is to the 1968 Bizzarrini Manta which, at that time, represented a major breakthrough in styling, now adapted to state-of-the-art technology and enriched with Italdesign Giugiaro’s forty years experience of research.

The style of the future
Despite its flat, highly compact shape, the Quaranta features a single-volume shape characterized by a continuous body line stretching from its clipped nose to the tail that exploits the almost horizontal rake of the windscreen.

Access to the cabin is “step-in” via an upper door incorporating the side ones. At the touch of an electric on/off button, the door opens upward in a downwind direction, regulated by proximity sensors. The door is hinged to the hood pillar and is aligned with a second upper rear door, for access to the engine compartment and boot.

The roof houses the array of solar panels, necessary to power the electric battery, in the space between the two doors. Along with the other solar panels positioned on the front end, these create a central opaque strip, a distinctive signature of the model, thanks to the interplay of light with the bright paint of the bodywork. The solar panels can generate a power of up to 250 W, sufficient for the functioning of the cockpit conditioning system and for recharging the electric battery.

The styling of the Quaranta prototype is further enhanced by the attention dedicated to surface aerodynamics, designed to ensure maximum possible efficiency and penetration, also by using sharp edges on the rear. This can also be noted in the front end of the vehicle where the radiator grille has been eliminated and replaced by two side air inlets, positioned above the lighting clusters, which perform the delicate function of front stabilizers. The rear of the vehicle has also been conceived to improve overall aerodynamic performance: an attentively-molded spoiler, with a perfectly square-edged cut and a very technical design, has the scope of supporting the lower wing, modeled according to latest generation F1 styling, that makes up for the absence of the traditional upper stabilizer.

Styling research aimed at top aerodynamic performance is also reflected on the sides, characterized by extremely generous glazing stretching from the front fender to the tail and in which the air vents are housed, located after the doors but also along the sill, in which the water cooling ducts are inserted. The most innovative feature of the side profile is certainly the contour line, between the door-windows and the sill, which is “negative” in the shoulder section, a particular, absolutely innovative feature for super sports-cars.

Interiors: technology for safety and comfort
Inside, the most striking innovation can be found in the multi-control steering wheel which reflects an idea already incorporated in the 1980 Medusa, a prototype developed by Italdesign and on display at its stand in Geneva: all vehicle driving and control functions are concentrated on the spokes, where the stalks have been eliminated and replaced with keys. This guarantees easier control by the driver, in a central position which can be obtained due to the absence of the gearbox-transmission block tunnel. This is possible thanks to the electric four-wheel drive system which eliminates any obstacles on the floor pan, making it completely flat. The generously-scaled central space of the cockpit can accommodate two adults and a child, behind the driver. The dashboard has been conceived with a sporting, modern look, with clean-cut details matching the style of the exterior, and equipped with a vast array of instruments. These are organized on two levels: the screens of the side and rear TV cameras are positioned on the upper level, with particular attention to the left-hand view mirror, useful when overtaking; the lower level is dedicated to the management of the vehicle. The drive-panel also includes a visor for X-ray sensors for night driving. The dark-colored leather and alcantara upholstery reflects the most refined Italian taste.

The lighting clusters are extremely modern: the low-beam lights are based on led technology, while the full-beam are of the Bi-xenon type. The direction indicators, the tail and rear stop lights are of the full led type, inserted in a single box but differentiated according to color, assembled and adapted by hand at Italdesign Giugiaro.

Last but not least, the Quaranta features 9 ½ by 20″ alloy wheels, without hub caps for improved styling and aerodynamics, and four Vredestein tires as standard, which differ only in shoulder height: 275/35/R20 front and 275/40/R20 rear. The dimensions are certainly tight for a super sports-car but suitable for a 4WD car.

Mold-breaking mechanicals
The structure of the prototype is made up of the carbon monocoque frame onto which aluminum and special steel parts are assembled, while the windscreen and roof are made of stratified glass with UVA filter. The Quaranta is fit with electronic four-wheel drive, divided in a small electric motor on the fore-carriage and the thermal engine/electric engine system located in a central rear position. This particular structure, which has seen Toyota’s involvement in the electronic control management, has made it possible to develop the vehicle on a 2620-mm wheelbase, ideal for a mid-engined car.

The batteries which assist the electric motors are located between the engine compartment and the cockpit and are powered directly by the solar panels. The Quaranta features a double fuel-tank, integrated in the supporting frame, with a total capacity of 60 liters, giving a mileage of up to 1000 km.

Dynamic asset is variable in two ride height positions: sporting and raised. Maximum ground clearance is 230 mm, an absolute record which means that the super sports-car can take any type of terrain in its stride. The main technical aspect that distinguishes the mechanical design of the Quaranta is the weight balance and in particular the “weight centering”: all the mechanical weight of the vehicle is contained between the two axles, including the mufflers which are positioned in front of the rear wheels. Only the radiator and a large overhanging luggage compartment, able to accommodate two golf-bags, remain outside.

The front suspensions also represent a breakthrough: designed according to F1 cars, they are equipped with a central mono-shock echoing an idea already presented by Italdesign – Giugiaro on the 2004 Toyota Volta and on the 1997 Alfa Romeo Scighera. The linkage mechanism of the levers guarantees exceptional stability in any type of situation, simulating a “multilink” mechanism. The links have been designed and engineered entirely by ITALDESIGN GIUGUIARO: the “ovalized” down tubes are made of special steel and the uprights of Ergal.

The entire Quaranta project is an idea of Italdesign Giugiaro, constructed in accordance with the classical formula of the package of services furnished to automotive manufacturers.

Quaranta confirms the classic Italdesign – Giugiaro versatile service formula for car manufacturers. The competence and capability of designing a new car model considering style development, frame development, safety and ergonomics analyses and mechanics development, starting only from a given functioning engine.

The chassis, bodywork and layout of the Quaranta prototype have been designed by the Engineering Division of Italdesign Giugiaro, while the mechanicals and electronics have been developed in cooperation with Toyota. The vehicle was entirely built at the Moncalieri facilities.

The Italdesign Giugiaro construction process
The Italdesign Giugiaro construction and prototyping process, tried and tested during forty years of activity in the automotive sector but also extended to industrial design, preserves certain characteristics of technical specialization and production quality of unequalled value.

- Construction of a prototype involves various completely independent phases that can also be carried out with a modular approach. Starting from hand-made drawings, the next step is Styling Research and definitive development of the master models, using state-of-the-art CAD technologies. In parallel, the phases of technical design of the prototype

interior, or even of only some parts, can be integrated with style development, producing a unique technical result. This is the most complete, professional process that Italdesign can offer its clients. Following consolidation of the styling-engineering project, a full-scale mockup is built. The mock-up gives the possibility of physically evaluating modifications and integrations and represents the basis for the subsequent construction of the final prototype. Italdesign can also carry out various technical tests, including the model crash-test;

• The prototyping phase, a mainly hand-crafted process with the aid of forefront automated systems, includes preparation of the assembly jigs (so-called negatives), usually constructed by hand in the workshop, and hitting models milled according to the style master models, useful for beating the sheets of aluminum or stratified carbon;
• Work on the interior is necessary in order to prepare the seats, facial, door panels and all the other elements inserted in the cabin of the vehicle. Lined fiberglass-reinforced parts are always constructed at Italdesign, and also the upholstery, available in any type of material or shape required;
• The above phases are followed by construction of the mechanical and structural parts of the prototype, preparation of the tooling and uprights necessary for the construction phase and beating of the parts, assembly of the structure, of the interior and accessories and lastly painting. In the case of the Quaranta prototype, the door was designed and constructed entirely at Italdesign using a temporary piston tubular structure, subsequently reproduced and fastened to the chassis.

Cooperation between Toyota-Italdesign Giugiaro
Cooperation between Italdesign Giugiaro and Toyota Group started with the supply of the high performance hybrid engine fit on the Volta prototype, displayed for the first time at the 2004 Geneva Show.

For the Quaranta, Toyota furnished Italdesign Giugiaro with a derivative of the latest available hybrid system, Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive technology. The innovative aspect of this engine lies in the ability of the electronic control system to regulate the power distributed by the electric motors to the wheels, making the clutch-gearbox-transmission block superfluous.

The Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive system guarantees power, acceleration and top performance still keeping high mileage, reduced emissions and extremely silent operation. The compact battery makes it possible to store the energy produced in the braking or deceleration phase instead of dispersing this as heat.

The electric motor is complementary to the thermal engine but can also operate independently, activated by the electronic traction control unit where ideal conditions exist.

The Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive system consists of a V6 3.3 liter gasoline engine and of two electric motors that operate in synergy, delivering a high power output, comparable to that of an 8-cylinder engine, but with fuel
consumption and emissions lower than those of a 4 cylinder engine. To improve efficiency and handling, the intelligent E-Four system automatically activates two- or four-wheel drive, taking advantage of the increased handling and stability of four-wheel drive in acceleration, cornering or braking, and the reduced consumption and acoustic comfort of rear wheel drive at normal cruising speed.

The Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive system also includes the E-CVT Electronic-Continuously Variable Transmission, an automatic planetary gear transmission with ratios varying infinitely as speed changes.

The real innovation of the Quaranta prototype is reflected in the mid-ship positioning of a hybrid engine on a super sports-car that guarantees high performance with reduced consumption and low emissions.

Technical data

Length (mm): 4450
Height (mm): 1230
Height from ground (mm): 165 / 230
Wheelbase (mm): 2620
Front/Rear overhang (mm) :960 / 758 (1014 / 808)
Front/rear width (mm): 1980 / 1982
Front/rear track (mm): 1759 / 1697
Front tires: 275 / 35 / R20 Vredestein
Rear tires: 275 / 40 / R20 Vredestein
Rims: 9 ½ x 20″ OZ
Windscreen angle of incidence: 70°
Weight (kg): 1400
Drive: 4WD
Front suspensions: “Push-rod” type with overlapped triangular wishbones and central mono-shock-absorber
Rear suspensions: Push-rod” type with overlapped triangular wishbones and two shock-absorbers

Values and driving performance

Displacement (cm3): V6 3311
Max. power (kW/rpm): 155/5600
System total power (kW): 200
Max. torque (Nm/rpm): 288/4400
Top speed (km/h): 250 (limited)
0 – 100 km/h (sec.): 4.05
Consumption (l/100 km, combined cycle): 7,1
CO2 emissions (g/km, combined cycle): 180

The Geneva Motor Show is coming and every automaker is trying to establish itself as a leader in the world of the cars, but they use different techniques to draw the attention of the public. The majority of them are releasing many informations about what are going to unveil and the rest…are giving only teaser photos or nothing.

One of the automakers that doesn’t want to give us many details is Saab, but they announced their presence for the auto show and released a teaser photo of the so-called 9-1X concept. The shot looks cool and I can’t wait to see the final product at the Geneva Motor Show. I guess I’ll have to wait, only a few days left until the opening.