- Geneva Motor Show 2012 -

Geneva March 2012 – Ferrari has introduced the new F12 Berlinetta that replaces the 599 Fiorano in the 12 cylinder line of models. The Ferrari F12 Berlinetta is now the most powerful and high-performance road-going Ferrari ever. A greater efficiency of the engine results in a claimed reduction by 30 per cent of the fuel consumption and emissions. The Ferrari F12, propelled by a new V12 engine, is built around highly evolved transaxle architecture and features state-of-the-art components and control systems. The Ferrari F12 Berlinetta’s aerodynamic have also been perfected to the extreme in an innovative design that redefines classic Ferrari themes.- click here for more pictures and informations

The Lamborghini Aventador J is a unique street legal super sports car that represents an extreme evolution of a Lamborghini Aventador LP 700 -4 with no roof and no windshield. This requires that the driver and passenger of the Aventador J have the right equipment for driving at top speeds higher than 300 Km/h.
It is a demonstrator of Lamborghini expertise in carbon fiber technology.  “With the Lamborghini Aventador J, we have molded our brand DNA into its most definitive form to-date. This automobile is as extreme and as uncompromising as only a Lamborghini can be,” says Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. “The new Lamborghini Aventador J is the most radical open supersports car of Lamborghini’s history. Its name comes from our tradition and combines an unconventional design with technology”- click here for more pictures and informations

Work began in 2010 with initial meetings between Aston Martin and Zagato where sketches incorporating the design DNA of both companies were discussed and a decision was made to proceed with the project. Director of Design, Marek Reichman added: “The Design team at Gaydon spent time refining the concept using a mixture of the latest computer based modelling techniques along with crafting traditional clay models to give a real world idea of proportion, stance and detail” "The V12 Zagato is an elegant yet brutal design which reflects the great balance between race performance and pure Aston Martin style. The original DB4GT Zagato was a true icon, powerful and graceful; the new design is a true representation of the spirit of DB4GT Zagato. The muscular organic forms define the thoroughbred nature of the car’s racing credentials."- click here for more pictures and informations

 AC, one of the world’s oldest car brands having been in continuous business since 1901, has four cars at the Geneva Motor Show 2012, the year which marks the 50th anniversary of the creation of the original and still legendary AC Cobra.
 Three of the models there are classic ACs, demonstrating the marque’s enduring appeal as the maker of sports cars. The fourth car – set to surprise the industry - is a stylish new model with ultra high performance: the Italian-designed AC 378 GT Zagato. The AC Mk VI reproduces a Cobra 427 while the AC MkII recalls the AC Cobra 289. The classic AC are produced in England in aluminium using the original jigs. Composite body models are produced in Germany while the 378 GT Zagato is built in South Africa. Propulsion is by a Chevrolet V8, 6,2 Litres capacity. The maximum power varies from 350 hp and 575 Nm torque to 437 hp. AC MkII reaches 245 kph and a standing start 0 to 100 kph in 4,5 seconds while the Mk VI goes to 278 kph and accomplishes a standing start 0 to 100 kph in 3,6 seconds. Base prices vary from 90.000 to 110.000 Euros according to model. When aluminium is used for the hand-built A.C., the base price jumps to 200.000 Euros. Since the cars are hand-made, performances and prices will vary with specifications. - click here for more pictures and informations

Renault has chosen the 82nd International Geneva Motor Show for the first public appearance of ZOE, the first affordable car for everyday use, from just €15,700 (price in France 5.000 Euros subsidy deducted – battery monthly rental not included), to have been designed from the ground up as an electric vehicle. In terms of autonomy, Renault has developed the ‘Range OptimiZEr’ that combines three major innovations (new-generation regenerative braking, a heat pump and MICHELIN EnergyTM E-V tyres). Due to this, the range of ZOE is the highest of the electric vehicles in
mass production. In the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), ZOE is homologated with a range of 210km. In real conditions, for example, in suburban use, the owner will generally achieve around 100km in cold weather and 150km in temperate conditions.
 Like all electric vehicles, ZOE emits no CO2, NOx, CO or fine particles. It also signals the disappearance of unpleasant smells and ‘engine’ noise during road use. Well-to-wheel CO2 emissions depend on the energy-generation mix of each country. Emissions total 62 g / km of CO2 in Europe. They are even lower in France at just 12 g / km of CO2.
ZOE is manufactured at Renault's Flins factory, where batteries will be made at a later date. From 2013, ZOE’s local content rate will be 55 per cent following the introduction of the Renault electric motor which will be produced at the company’s Cléon plant. This high rate helps to reduce the carbon footprint of logistics activities.
Specifications: synchronous with rotor coil motor, power 65 kW/88 hp, maximum torque 220 Nm. Battery Lithium_ion type, 22 kWh capacity, top speed 135 kph. Dimensions: Length 4.084 mm, Width 1.730 mm, height 1.568 mm, wheelbase 2.588 mm. - click here for more pictures and informations

The premium electric sedan Model S developed by Tesla from 2009 was just launched in production and first deliveries are scheduled during 2012. The five-doors, five to seven seats, sedan, engineered from the ground up as an electric vehicle, competes with the top cars in its class in spaciousness, handling and style, and produces zero emissions. Tesla has already registered over 8,000 reservations worldwide for Model S.
The heart of Tesla Model S is its floor-mounted, efficiently-packaged electric battery, delivering unprecedented range and a thrilling driving experience. The flat battery gives Model S a low center of gravity and ideal weight distribution for responsive, precise performance.

Tesla Model S comes with three battery options, 40 kWh, 60 kWh and 85 kWh, to provide drivers with the range they need (respectively 160 miles/258 km, 230 miles/370 km, 300 miles/483 km). The sedan can be recharged using any conventional electrical outlet, saving owners trips to the gas pump as well as obviating the need for oil changes and smog checks.
In addition to the Signature Series -- the first 1,000 Model S sedans off the assembly line -- Tesla will also manufacture a Model S Performance vehicle at the start of production. With an 85 kWh battery pack and a power-train that takes the car from 0 to 60 mph or 0 to 97 km/h in just 4.4 seconds, the Model S Performance combines the speed and agility of the world’s most coveted sports cars with the ride quality of a premium sedan.
Base prices are ranging from 57.400$ to 77.400$ according to battery size. Base price for Model S Performance with upgraded interior suspensions and wheels is 84.900$.
The Tesla Roadster designed from 2006 and launched in 2008 was scheduled for 1.500 units. As of today 1.300 units have been sold worldwide. The Tesla Model S is now assuring the future of the company.

When BMW returns to the DTM next season, it will also mark the comeback of a racing legend: between 1987 and 1992 the BMW M3 celebrated no less than 40 wins and over 150 podium finishes in this series. The BMW M3 DTM is based on the fourth generation of the most sporty production car to emerge from BMW M. BMW Motorsport has been developing the DTM version of the car since autumn last year, when the Board of Management of BMW AG announced the company's return to the DTM.
The DTM regulations for the 2012 season stipulate all cars must use a certain number of standard components. This is to guarantee that development costs remain reasonable and are considerably lower than in other top motorsport categories. Despite this, the BMW Motorsport engineers have been able to call upon the immense technical resources of the BMW Group and apply their innovation to establish performance advantages over their rivals in areas such as engine and aerodynamics.
The result of this work is a spectacular racing car, which is set to thrill DTM fans. The powerful V8 engine equipped with the air restrictor as detailed in the technical regulations generates approximately 480 bhp. The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in about three seconds and boasts a top speed of approx. 300 km/h.
Specifications : Carbon fiber reinforced monocoque with steel roll cage structure, 4 litre capacity eight cylinders V engine, sequential six-speed gearbox, maximum output 480 hp with air restrictor according to regulation, length 4.775 mm excluding rear wing, width 1.950 mm and height approximately 1.200 mm depending on suspension set up.

The Cambiano Project is a luxury sports saloon with electric propulsion. There are four electric motors, one for each wheel, a lithium-ion battery for energy storage and a Diesel micro-turbine with generator to produce electricity when the battery is depleted.

The Cambiano illustrates Pininfarina expertise in Car Styling Design and Engineering. The sports saloon body style presents a different solution on each side. The driver side has a single door of a sports coupe while the passenger side has two doors that open from the centre and no B-pillar for a full access to the cabin.- click here for more pictures and informations

The Disco Volante 2012, designed as a two-seater coupé with front-central engine and transaxle drivetrain, is presented in Geneva in the form of a full scale style model.
The car will be produced as a very limited series for discerning customers: collectors, sporting drivers and design aficionados with appreciation for a tailor-made car based on individual passion and taste.

There exist very few models that rouse fascination like the Alfa Romeo C52 'Disco Volante'. The briefing at Carrozzeria Touring in 1952 mentioned the need for a shape that was ‘insensitive to wind’. The unique basic design, featuring an oval cross section, evolved in different versions, and was even registered as ‘design patent’.
Using Alfa Romeo 1900 C elements, the car received a new aluminium crankcase, a new tubular chassis, and a very light, striking and efficient aluminium body.- click here for more pictures and informations

Following the BMW group 500 Mini-E electric car 2008 and the 600 BMW 1 Series ActiveE Electric 2010 on field testing alternative drive solutions, the BMW Group showcases its visions of future mobility in the shape of the BMW i3 Concept and BMW i8 Concept studies. Unveiled for the first time at the Frankfurt Motor Show, these concept vehicles provide a glimpse of the first electrically powered production cars from the new BMW i sub-brand, due to be launched as the BMW i3 in 2013 and the BMW i8 in 2014. “We are marking another milestone in the history of the BMW Group. As Chairman of the Board and an engineer myself, I am very proud of this project,” declared Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, at Friday’s premiere of the two vehicles in Frankfurt. “As the world’s leading premium car manufacturer, our aim is to offer customers purpose-built electricdrive cars as well,” he added. For further information and illustrations see car review BMW i3 Electric with Range Extender and i8 plug-in full hybrid drive concepts 2011.

Nissan introduced two concepts very near production models. The Invitation illustrates a food door saloon of the compact range that may enter production in 2013; it could be built on the platform of the Nissan Micra and the Renault Clio. The Hi-Cross provides an idea of a future Cross-over larger than the successful Quasquai.

Chevrolet exhibited at Geneva the two concept coupes introduced at the 2012 North American International Auto Show and aimed at inspiring next-generation buyers to take the wheel and suggest ideas for a car they can co-create. Further illustration and details see Car Reviews Chevrolet Code 130R (red) & Tru 140S (white) Concepts 2012

The Suzuki Regina, introduced at 2011 Tokyo Motor Show, has changed name when arriving at Geneva. Let’s have an excerpt of the conference by Mr Kenichi Ayukawa, Managing Officer, Executive General Manager of Suzuki Global Marketing, to understand the position of the Suzuki G70:
“Today we are showing a car that highlights the efforts we are making. The Suzuki G70 is our vision of a next-generation environmentally friendly car.
At Suzuki we think a next-generation global compact car would mean a model with drastically reduced CO2 emissions, by the improvement of the existing technologies, therefore a model wich is accessible to everyone. The G70 embodies this idea.
An important feature of the G70 is that it is very light. The platform has more curves than a conventional one, so it’s lighter and stronger. We also focused on weight savings in the materials and parts throughout the car. So the G70 only weights 730 kg. That’s more than hundred kilograms less than the Suzuki A-segment product.
The G70 also has very low running resistance. The windscreen is relatively upright, so it directs air smoothly over the sides of the body at the same time as giving the driver a great view ahead. This means the G70’s drag coefficient is more than 10 percent lower than that of a Suzuki A-segment product. And we made the G70’s running resistance even lower by using low-resistance tyres.
Another important feature is the powertrain. Suzuki has a vision of saving fuel by using smaller petrol engines with higher compression ratios and new kinds of turbocharging and direct injection. The G70 has a very efficient petrol engine with a turbocharger and direct injection. It also has an engine auto stop start system, which regenerates deceleration energy to save more fuel. We’ve already achieved CO2 emissions of 99 grams per kilometre with the Alto, and just 77 grams per kilometre in the Japanese minicar segment. We’re calling our concept car the G70 because we plan to produce an A-segment with Co2 emissions less than 70 grams per kilometre.

The Infiniti EMERG-E Concept, which made its debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, is a highly advanced, mid-ship sports car that provides an exciting glimpse into Infiniti's future. "It is elegant yet dynamic, and has graceful power," said Senior Vice President and Chief Creative Officer Shiro Nakamura. "Mid-ship cars are usually less refined, but the body of Infiniti EMERG-E is like silk wrapping over the wheels."
Within its compact 4,462 metres (175.7-inch) length the two-seater Infiniti EMERG-E contains a pair of electric motors, a lithium-ion battery pack, four inverters, a three-cylinder range-extending internal combustion engine and a gasoline tank. All this is efficiently wrapped within highly aerodynamic, light bodywork with design fluency. - click here for more pictures and informations

Hyundai has unveiled its latest European concept car, named i-oniq, at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, showcasing new technology and design which present an impression of the company’s future thinking.

The 4,4 meters long i-oniq is an electric sports hatchback with a range-extending petrol engine.  Intended to convey the latest thinking from Hyundai’s designers and engineers, the i-oniq evolves the company’s fluidic sculpture form language and represents bold ‘New Possibilities’ with its futuristic powertrain. - click here for more pictures and informations

Making its World Premiere at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, the FT-Bh concept is an ultra-light, below 800 kg, full hybrid vehicle designed to lower fuel consumption and minimise emissions for an affordable B-segment family car.

Clearly expressing the Under Priority design language and Keen Look styling of Toyota’s next generation vehicles, the FT-Bh has the dimensions of a B-segment vehicle. It is 3,985 mm long, 1,695 mm wide and 1,400 mm high, with a long wheelbase of 2,570 mm. - click here for more pictures and informations

Tata Motors presented at the 82nd Geneva Motor Show the Tata Megapixel, a new four seats range extended electric vehicle concept for environment-conscious motorists anywhere in the world. Combining a lithium ion phosphate battery and an on-board petrol engine generator for recharging on the move, the Tata Megapixel offers a range of up to 900 km with a single tank of fuel, CO2 emission of just 22 gr/km under battery only power.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr Prakash M. Telang, Managing Director – India Operations at Tata Motors, said “ The Tata Megapixel, developed by our design centres in India, the U.K. and Italy, is our idea of a city car for discerning motorists in any megacity of the world. It is a result of the progress we have made on the Tata Pixel, displayed last year, and also denotes the company’s future design direction.”
The car’s electric drive has four independent electric motors, one at each wheel. When parking, the electric hub motors drive the wheels in opposite directions, while front wheels are turned at an acute angle, enabling an exceptional 2.8 metres turning radius. The at-home charging system is an innovative induction charging system. The car has simply to be parked over the induction pad for charging to begin.
A double sliding door system and the car B pillar-less design make entry/exit easy. The battery layout and hub motors maximize the interior package; the Tata Megapixel comfortably accommodates four adults with luggage. The front seats are canti-levered on the central tunnel, releasing floor space for additional storage. The console docking point can connect a smart phone with the car. The built-in large touch-screen Human Machine Interface (HMI), at the centre of the instrument panel, thus becomes a common access point for the repertoire of the smart device and for controlling the functions of the car, like temperature, ventilation, driving modes and performances.

The Toyota Prius is the world’s best selling hybrid car. The third generation has already been sold at more than one million units since its launch in 2009. Toyota plans to launch 10 new hybrids by 2015. The Toyota NS4 advanced plug-in hybrid concept was first exhibited at the 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The NS4 exemplifies Toyota’s vision for future mobility with a focus on next generation connectivity and safety.
NS4’s advanced power train targets a hybrid plug-in system featuring reductions in component size and weight with improved overall fuel economy, better acceleration and longer all-electric range, while maintaining a short charge time.
The NS4 concept signals a new styling direction for Toyota aimed at making an emotional connection with consumers. The distinctive trapezoid grille is accented by a floating lower spoiler and distinctive daytime running lights.  Rear lamps wrap around the sides of the vehicle, and create the effect of a rear spoiler. The roof line profile, lift back design and powered swan-wing doors create greater accessibility and efficient functionality.
Traditional vehicle development cycles average four years, but this is rapidly changing with the introduction of more technological innovations.  Vehicles have become another communication hub in the consumers’ lifestyle, and are the third-fastest growing technological device, behind smartphones and tablets. Toyota has formed special alliances with technology leaders such as Microsoft, Intel and Salesforce to explore the creation of seamless vehicle interfaces with emerging technologies.  These alliances will ensure Toyota is at the forefront of this emerging sector of the automotive market.
The NS4 concept’s human-machine interface (HMI) is centred around a multi-touch screen with the look and feel of a smartphone.  The simple, intuitive operation conveys information quickly while minimizing distractions and maximizing driver awareness.  The multimedia and vehicle-controls enhancement will also direct air conditioning, audio, battery-charge and navigation functions.  The HMI system is even capable of “learning” driver preferences to anticipate driver responses in specific environments and situations.

The Istituto Europeo di Design (IED) is a regular exhibitor at the Geneva Show. The Cisitalia 202 E is a project prepared by the students for this 2012 event. The 202 E is a modern vision of the legendary Cisitalia 202 presented in 1947 by Pinin Farina and that is considered as a piece of art; The 1947 Cisitalia 202 by Pinin Farina is indeed exhibited at the New York Museum of Modern Art as “ sculpture in movement”.
The IED Cisitalia 202 E (length 4.270 mm – width 1.850 mm- height 1.240 mm- wheelbase 2.650 mm) is a two seats sport coupe with 19” wheels, a front mounted compact V8 engine and rear wheel drive, designed to have a power of approximately 450 hp. The car in exhibit is a full-scale model.

The Sbarro Design School of Montbéliard, regularly introduces Projects prepared by its students at the Geneva Motor Show. This year the project Intencity is a two seats in tandem urban mobility vehicle. The propulsion is fully electric and the components have been supplied by UTBM. This funny styling little vehicle has flowing lines with a tilting canopy for access to the cabin. Specifications include 100 kW electric asynchrone motor with Lithium phosphate battery. The claimed operating range with one charge is 180 km. The chassis is a multi- tubular frame and the total weight is announced for 980kg.

The main idea behind Dock+Go is to have a vehicle suited for every specific use. Using a basic 2 seats electric car, Rinspeed and its partners have prepared a serie of modules on wheel that can be attached according to requirements.
Any electrified city speedster could serve as the basis for “Dock+Go.” For demonstration purposes Rinderknecht selected a two-seat smart car as the basis. Different “packs” can turn the electric flea into the dream car of every pizza delivery driver - complete with a built-in isothermal box. Or they allow winter sports enthusiasts to comfortably stow their gear. In Geneva Rinspeed will furthermore show off a rolling “sound pack” which multimedia and infotainment specialist Harman has filled with the latest high-end sound solutions in order to guarantee a first class acoustical experience.
Yes, this car truly always saves the best for last: and in this case it is a generous helping of operating range if the 100 kilometers that are usually on tap in electric vehicles simply are not enough. An “energy pack,” fitted with a range extender or additional batteries, powered by a fuel cell or equipped with a combustion engine, provides the crucial extra kilometers to reach more distant destinations. The simple and equally clever trick of the latter is: the docked third axle drives the rotating second axle and in doing so also recharges the on-board batteries of the city speedster. The world’s first Variohybrid - as Frank M. Rinderknecht calls his range donor - is born. And to top it all off: when the pack with auxiliary batteries is docked and the vehicle is not in use, the pack will even provide electricity to the owner’s private residence or serve as a buffer for the public energy grid, in effect turning it into a “smart grid.”

The French Engineering Company 3Ai from BUC is demonstrating an extensible project vehicle with overall length varying from 2,4 metres to 3,2 metres. The chassis is based on 12 rails that slides to adjust the length. The four seats configuration takes 3,2 metres full length while a two seats configuration at 2,4 metres is possible with the rear seats moving under the front seats. Before changing such configuration it is important to check that nobody or no pet seats on one rear seat (!). Changing configuration according to 3Ai requires 30 seconds. What can be expected of a crash test remains to be verified.
A third alternative proposition is a 3,2 metres pick up. Loading space can vary from 500 to 1000 litres. The Moduleo is claimed to be capable of a top speed of 90 kph in full electric propulsion with an operating range of 150 km with one charge. Propulsion is by 2x7,5 kW electric motor. Weight is quoted at 550 kg without batteries and 800 kg with batteries.
3Ai Engineering estimates at 25.000 Euros the possible cost of such vehicles and is looking for investor to further develop and produce the Moduleo.

The Opel RAK e, first launched at 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, opens a new chapter in electric mobility and extends Opel’s pioneering role in alternative propulsion systems. The radical RAK e is defined by minimal energy costs, 100 kilometers for one electric charge of the battery, one third of the weight of a modern small car, and a maximum speed of 120 km/h.
"We want to develop electric vehicles that everyone can afford. The range-extending concept of the Ampera demonstrates our leadership in electrification of the automobile, the RAK e experimental vehicle aims to deliver pricing that even younger customers can afford. The RAK e has cool looks and production-potential. In future, efficiency will be measured in euros, not liters per 100 km; today we are pleased to present our “1 euro car”, said Karl-Friedrich Stracke, Opel CEO, at the world premiere in Frankfurt.     
The lightweight concept of the RAK e is based on a steel space-frame structure beneath a skin of conventional synthetic material. This allows a high level of safety as well as affordable pricing. Opel deliberately avoids the use of expensive composite materials in its lightweight-design philosophy, in order to make electric mobility affordable for as many people as possible
The potential of the spectacular experimental vehicle is reflected in the innovative design. The bodywork is made of fully recyclable synthetic material; the tandem two-seat passenger compartment is reminiscent of glider. Thanks to the large cockpit canopy, the driver and passenger enjoy a feeling of spaciousness and all-around visibility. The front seat, steering column and armrests automatically tip forward to enable easy-entry; remote control via smart phone enhances the optical effect of this action. The pedals and the steering wheel adjust to the size of the driver.
The sporty character of the two-seater is underlined by visible chassis components, such as the wheel-integrated front disk brakes and the motorbike-derived rear swing-arm. The rear wheels enhance agility with a tread width of only 600 mm.
Weighing only 380 kg the RAK e is only one third of the weight of a modern small car. The turning circle of just 5.5 m makes the experimental vehicle ideal for inner-city mobility. The projected top speed of 120 km/h and zero to 100 km/h acceleration in less than 13 seconds demonstrate that Opel’s philosophy for urban mobility includes motorway-capability. It takes very little energy for RAK e to deliver such performance – peak power output is 36.5 kW/49 hp; 10.5 kW/14 hp is continuously available. The useable battery capacity of 5 kWh enables a range of 100 km, which corresponds to fuel consumption of just 0.6 liters of gasoline. Over an annual 10,000 km the RAK e’s energy consumption would therefore be a modest 525 kWh. This could be supplied by a five square-meter, 500-Watt solar panel mounted on the roof of the garage

The LAMPO 3 Project is a pure electric 2+2 coupé specifically built around the electric components. The lightweight chassis carries actively cooled Lithium-ion batteries, positioned in the central tunnel to improve drive dynamics and load distribution. There are three BRUSA motors of which two on the rear axle and one on the front axle, allowing four wheel drive with active torque coupling; thanks to the 3 electric motors it is possible to control the torque of each rear wheel separately.
The claimed performances include a maximum speed of over 220 kph and acceleration from 0 to 100 kph (62 mph) in 4,5 seconds as well as an operating range of 180 km with one charge.
Dimensions are 4.687 mm long, 1.998 mm wide, 1.307 mm high with a 3.000 mm wheelbase. The announced weight is 1.700 kg.