- Paris, Mondial de l'Automobile 2016 -

The Show of Electric Drive Must Go On

The Show of Electric Drive Must Go On

The first horseless vehicles, around 1880, were propelled by electricity, gasoline internal combustion engine , or steam engines. In 1900, there were electric taxis in Paris and New York; the taxis would exchange empty batteries for fully charged elements at taxi maintenance centres. The electric cars were preferred by the ladies because of their easy use and luxury finish. There was no need of muscular cranking for engine starting. Henry Ford purchased an electric car for his wife that it is still exhibited at Ford Museum in Dearborn.

In 1900, Ferdinand Porsche developed the Lohner Porsche with electric propulsion and a gasoline internal combustion engine operating a generator to feed electricity to the hub wheel motors. This is the first hybrid automobile.

 Automobile competition were organised between major cities. The petroleum companies started organising an infrastructure on gas stations. The gasoline internal combustion engine gained a leading position on this new market. The electric starter eliminated the difficult starting of the gasoline engines and the expensive electric cars slowly lost market position. During War, the electric cars came again to supplement the difficulties of obtaining fuel. One example is the Peugeot VLV.

During the Petroleum Crisis in the 1970s, many car manufacturers investigated the possible return of the electric drive. It is the case for General Motors and the Electrovette or Electrovan. In 1990s in California air pollution pushed again the opportunity of the Electric Drive. It is the case of the General Motor EV1. In Europe several electric cars were proposed at the same period. The limited operating range and the long time for battery charging did not allow a decent market penetration.

In 1997, Toyota launched the hybrid electric Prius with gasoline internal combustion engine and energy recovery. The Toyota Prius will be a success, million of cars will be sold,  and the solution will be followed by other manufacturers. General Motors will launch the Chevrolet Volt with series hybrid propulsion similar to the 1900 Lohner Porsche.

Now since 2007, the electric car is back again. The market is still small and the charging point infrastructure is taking time to spread but the movement is confirmed with gradual sales increase. Hybrid and Plug-in-hybrid automobiles define a more successfull electric drive solution where operating range anxiety and charging time are not an issue.

At the 2016 Paris Motor Show, several manufacturers proposed increased autonomy or new electric car ranges. Renault Nissan Alliance that sold more than 350.000 electric automobiles presented a Renault Zoe with 300 km real range that is twice the capacity of the previous version. The new battery occupies exactly the same volume as the previous one and could be technically changed. Volkswagen and Mercedes Benz introduced new platform dedicated for a range of electric automobiles. The Smart ForTwo and ForFour are now proposed with a choice either gasoline or electric propulsion. Opel introduce the full electric Ampera-e sedan.

At "Mondial de l'Automobile 2016", Dr. Dieter Zetsche, CEO of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes‑Benz Cars, presented the company's strategy for the mobility of the future: "connectivity, autonomous driving, sharing and electric drive systems – each of these four trends has the potential to turn our industry on its head. Yet the real revolution lies in intelligently linking the four trends," said Zetsche at the Mercedes‑Benz press conference in Paris. The company is restructuring itself accordingly. The strategic orientation of Mercedes‑Benz Cars for the future will be brought together under CASE. CASE stands for the four pillars Connected, Autonomous, Shared & Service and Electric Drive. "To guarantee the logical fusion of all four future trends, we are bringing together the respective activities in a new, legally separate entity. This focus is aimed at achieving greater speed and effectiveness of implementation." Zetsche unveiled the concept vehicle "Generation EQ" as the forerunner of the new era of mobility at Mercedes-Benz.

The Volkswagen Group, in a Press Conference introducing the I.D. concept, announced that the Group will develop and build more than 30 new additional electric vehicles by 2025. Volkswagen has also set itself the goal of selling one million electric cars a year by 2025. . Porsche is showcasing the Panamera E-Hybrid in Paris, the first of 17 new plug-in hybrids the Group will be introducing over the next two years. "The breakthrough for e-mobility cannot be achieved without substantial progress in batteries and infrastructure. So we are working hard on a rapid-charging project spearheaded by Porsche", Matthias Müller, CEO of Volkswagen Group, said.

During the Toyota Press Conference, we hear that " Today, with the launch of the second generation Prius Plug-in Hybrid, Toyota is taking a further step towards its goal of reducing whole fleet CO2 emissions by 90%* by 2050 through the use of HV (Hybrid Vehicle) PHV, EV (Electric Vehicle) and FCV (Fuel Cell Vehicle) technologies.

Dr. Ian Robertson, Member of the Board for Sales and Marketing BMW Group, declared at the Paris Mondial de l'Automobile (excerpt of conference)):

"Future mobility will be: Autonomous, Connected, Emission-free and Shared – and it will be geared to meeting the individual needs of each and every single customer.

BMW is the world’s most successful provider of plug-in hybrid vehicles in the premium segment - both in terms of sales and in the range of vehicles available.
This shows that our strategy is the right one – and more models will follow, including a MINI PHEV.

Hyundai exhibited its Ionic proposed as pure electric, hybrid or gasoline drive. Tesla had a large exhibit in Hall 1 with several luxury electric cars and a platform showing the battery and electric components implementation. GLM, a new Japanese Company introduced the prototype G4 of a new pure electric four seats exotic luxury sedan. Even Ferrari had an exclusive limited edition  LaFerrari Aperta with Hy Kers mild hybrid system for performance enhancement. Honda presented its new hybrid electric NSX. Porsche had the world premiere for its plug-in-hybrid Panamera 4. That is just a few examples of the "Electric Drive" trend exhibited at the 2016 Paris Motor Show. The key question widely illustrated at this Mondial Paris Motor Show is whether an electric car must present a specific styling. A Mercedes Class B can be sold either with gasoline or diesel propulsion, fully electric or even hydrogen fuel cell electric drive and you hardly see the difference from outside. The Renault ZOE or the Toyota Prius present specific appearance at a glance..

1. Renault Trezor Electric Concept

“The Renault range has now been completely renewed and upgraded with a spectrum of complementary models, each one of which has its own assertive identity. With the TREZOR, we have pursued this renewal by introducing a new lifecycle sequence. This concept car is the fruit of a freedom of expression and prepares the way for the trends we are likely to see in our upcoming vehicles. These trends fall into two categories: French Design and Easy Life.” Laurens van den Acker - Senior Vice President Corporate Design.... full review continues here

The Renault Zoe 40 comes with a new battery with 41 kWh usefull energy compared to the previous unit with 22 kWh usefull energy. The overall volume of the battery is equivalent to the previous model. Technically, the new battery could retrofit previous Zoe models.

Fitted with the new Z.E. 40 battery, the Renault ZOE now delivers a record NEDC driving range of 400km, which is twice the distance delivered by the model at the time of its original launch.
The new Z.E. 40 battery has a real-world range of 300 kilometres in urban or suburban areas, for example (1)

The ZOE’s new Z.E. 40 battery boasts 41kWh of useful energy, equivalent to almost double the storage capacity of the ZOE’s standard battery (22kWh of useful energy).
Developed in close partnership with LG Chem, the battery uses high-energy density lithium-ion technology.
Renault and LG engineers have succeeded in increasing storage capacity without making the battery any bigger or a lot heavier. It was optimised by working on the chemistry of the cells in order to increase their energy density, rather than stacking additional battery modules, a commonly used technique.

The Z.E. 40 battery’s charging rate is similar to that of the standard battery, so ‘topping up’ doesn’t take long at all. For example, just 30 minutes are required on average to charge the battery for an extra 80 kilometres of driving range when plugged into one of the many public charging points in operation in Europe (4). The ZOE continues to be equipped with the Quick Charge (5) function to take full advantage of the maximum capacity of fast charging points located predominantly along motorway corridors.

(1) Ranges quoted are for ZOEs equipped with either the 75- or 90-horsepower version of the standard R75/90 motor. NB: The R75/90 motor was previously known as the R240. The figure used for this motor’s name now refers to the power output instead of the NEDC range as was previously the case. The R90 motor is available for all versions of the ZOE, with the exception of the French market’s entry level version which features the R75 motor.

Related Car Reviews: see Renault Zoe 2012: Zero-Emission everyday car

3. Nissan Leaf

Nissan is delivering innovation and excitement to the Paris Motor Show. The company is building on its Intelligent Mobility vision, announced at the Geneva Motor Show, with the 100 percent electric LEAF not only on display but used as a mobile energy source to power exhibits on Nissan's stand using vehicle-to-grid technology

EV battery technology has moved to a whole new level as Nissan partners with Eaton on a residential home energy storage unit called xStorage and joins forces with Enel on trials of vehicle-to-grid technology in Denmark and the UK. As a showcase of this cutting-edge technology, the Nissan stand at Paris is powered in part by the Nissan LEAF, using its pioneering bio-directional charging to deliver energy from the car to the show.

4. TESLA

Tesla Motors exhibit at the Paris Mondial de l'Automobile illustrated the successfull premium Model S and the newly introduced electric SUV Model X.

A platform exhibited allowed to distinguinsh the battery included in the platform and both front and rear electric motors.

The Model 3 is announced for production by the end of 2017 with a claimed sale price of US$ 35.000.

5. Opel Ampera E

Rüsselsheim -September 2016.  Opel and Vauxhall are unveiling the full electric Ampera e in World Premiere at the 2016 Mondial Paris Motor Show. The Opel-Vauxhall Alpera-e is derived from the Chevrolet Bolt unveiled in 2015 in the USA. The Opel Ampera-e will is presented with a goal to eradicate the biggest downside of an electric car for everyone – range anxiety. full review continues here

6. Volkswagen I.D. Electric Concept

Wolfsburg / Paris, September 2016. Volkswagen is embarking on its journey to the future at the Paris Motor Show with the world premiere of the visionary I.D.: I.D. is a highly automated electric car that will cover a distance of 400 to 600 kilometres on a single battery charge. The production version of the I.D. is due to be launched in 2020 at a price on a par with comparably powerful and well-equipped Golf, but Volkswagen is looking even further ahead with this concept car: in “I.D. Pilot” mode, the electric car is capable of fully automated driving – this technology should be ready for series production in 2025. Volkswagen has also set itself the goal of selling a million electric cars a year by 2025; the production version of the I.D. will make a decisive contribution towards this in the ramp-up of e-mobility. full review continues here

7. Volkswagen E Golf Touch and E Up

From 2013, Volkswagen is proposing the E Golf and E Up. At the Paris Mondial de l'Automobile Volkswagen introduced the E Golf Touch with 300 km operating range.

Wolfsburg, September 2013. From the middle of October Volkswagen will be supercharging its model range with an extremely efficient electric vehicle – the new e-up!. Creating a double impact on the e-mobility stage, the four-door city specialist will be followed just a few months later, in spring 2014, by a further zero-emissions Volkswagen: the e-Golf. Both electric cars will make their debuts at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt (10 th to 22 nd September), heralding the era of full-production e-mobility for Volkswagen. Henceforth Volkswagen will thus be offering in its vehicles every form of drive system relevant in the world today..

8. Volkswagen Budd E Concept

MEB - the new architecture for Volkswagen's electric vehicles: A lot about the BUDD-e is different. It is the first concept car developed by the Volkswagen Group to be designed on the basis of the new Modular Electric Drive Kit (MEB). This architecture heralds a fundamental change in electric motoring and thus for the car in general, because the MEB throws all fossil fuel ballast of the present overboard, having been designed specifically for electric cars. And this means that the body design, the interior design, the package and the drive characteristics of the electrically powered Volkswagen will change significantly.

Drive system data – zero emissions rethought. The MEB results in a drivetrain architecture that is specifically tailored to the use of compact electric motors and high-performance batteries. The flat and space-saving battery, with an energy capacity of 92.4 kWh, is integrated into almost the entire vehicle floor of the BUDD-e. It powers two electric motors, which drive both of the axles.

• The front electric motor produces 100 kW and 200 Nm, while the rear motor produces 125 kW and 290 Nm; resulting in a mechanical system power of 225 kW. The concept car's all-wheel drive system facilitates a top speed of 180 km/h.
• The battery can either be charged by plugging it into a power socket or by inductive charging. At a charging power of 150 kW (DC), the battery is 80 per cent charged after about 30 minutes.

Exterior dimensions – making optimum use of the traffic footprint. The MPV, which is 4,597 mm long, exploits the enclosed space perfectly. The car is 1,940 mm wide and 1,835 mm high. Due to its generous width and long wheelbase (3,151 mm) with very short overhangs (694 mm at the front and 752 mm at the back) the BUDD-e's proportions are very taut. A new rear steering system results in a tight turning circle of 11.5 m and improved dynamic response.

Paris/Stuttgart. With "Generation EQ", Mercedes‑Benz shows how electric cars can soon move into the fast lane: the concept vehicle, with the appearance of a sporty SUV coupé, gives a preview of a new generation of vehicles with battery-electric drives. The dynamic exterior design with its new electro-look underlines the focus on the powerful electric drive system: two electric motors, with a system output that can be increased to up to 300 kW thanks to scalable battery components, and permanent all-wheel drive deliver the guarantee of dynamic high-level performance. With a range of up to 500 kilometers and the typical Mercedes strengths of safety, comfort, functionality and connectivity, "Generation EQ" meets every demand in terms of contemporary, sustainable mobility. Also on the inside, the vehicle offers innovative solutions, including a completely new interior concept. Celebrating its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show, "Generation EQ" is the forerunner of Mercedes-Benz's new product brand for electric mobility, EQ. The name EQ stands for "Electric Intelligence" and is derived from the Mercedes-Benz brand values of "Emotion and Intelligence". review continues here

10. Mercedes Plug-in-Hybrid

Extra impetus for Mercedes-Benz strategic hybrid initiative: the company will be launching a total of ten new Plug-In Hybrid models up to 2017. Today five Mercedes Benz Plug-in-hybrid can be seen in showroom: The Mercedes C350e, the Mercedes E350e, the Mercedes GLC 350e, the Mercedes S500e and the Mercedes GLE 500e.

The Mercedes-Benz C 350 e combines efficiency, dynamism and comfort on an extraordinarily high level. The Saloon model captivates with the performance of a sports car while nonetheless delivering a certified fuel consumption of just 2.1 litres per 100 kilometres (48 g CO2/km) and up to 31 kilometres of all-electric driving. The four-cylinder petrol engine, in conjunction with a electric motor, gives it a total system output of 205 kW (279 hp) with a system torque of 600 Nm. In addition, the Saloon is equipped with air suspension and pre-entry climate control as standard.

For the first time in its SUV history, Mercedes-Benz offers a plug-in hybrid model, the GLE 500 e 4MATIC, which combines maximum efficiency with outstanding performance. This multi-talent will even best the already low fuel consumption figures of the efficiency champion GLE 250 d with four-cylinder diesel engine, while delivering the performance of a V8 model. The advantages of the new GLE furthermore include best on-road and off-road handling, outstanding spaciousness and high levels of active and passive safety.

As a plug-in hybrid, the new Mercedes-Benz C 350 e combines efficiency, dynamic spirit and comfort on an extraordinarily high level. Both the saloon and the estate model captivate with the performance of a sports car while nonetheless delivering a certified fuel consumption of just 2.4 - 2.1 litres per 100 kilometres (55 – 48 g CO2/km) and up to 31 kilometres of all-electric driving.

Stuttgart/Pebble Beach.  Every August classic car fans from around the world converge on Pebble Beach in California for a very special beauty contest. This gathering of magnificent classic cars is the perfect place to premiere the exclusive Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6, a sensational luxury-class coupé. The 2+2-seater is a homage to the glorious age of the aero coupés and consciously carries this tradition forward into the future. The coupé reinterprets classic, emotional design principles in an extreme way, following the Mercedes design philosophy of sensual purity.  
The Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6, which measures almost six metres in length, is designed as an electric car. The drive system has an output of 550 kW (750 hp). The shallow underfloor battery allows a range of over 500 kilometres according to the NEDC (over 200 miles according to EPA). .. full review continues here

Stuttgart/Paris, September 2016 .  The new smart electric drive is making electric mobility more attractive than ever. This is because it combines the agility of a smart with emission-free driving – the ideal combination for urban mobility. This is the fourth-generation electric smart, which is now available in all three body styles – including, for the first time, the smart forfour.

This makes smart the only car manufacturer worldwide to offer its model range with both combustion engines and pure battery-electric drive. The smart electric drive will celebrate its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show (1 to 16 October 2016), while the market launch will start in the USA in December 2016 and in Europe in early 2017... full review continues here

The Citroen E-Mehari is a four seats electric leisure automobile propelled by a 50 kW/68 hp motor. The battery is a 30 kWh Lithium-Polymer unit. The overall weight is 1300 kg. The claimed operating range on a full battery charge is 200 km. The Citroen E-Mehari is proposed for sale on some markets.

A year after the official launch of the brand, DS Automobiles has unveiled the head-turning DS E-TENSE at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show, an electric-powered Supercar that silently produces 516Nm of torque, 402hp and zero emissions.

Measuring 4.72m long and 1.29m high, DS’s ambition with the DS E-TENSE is to create a high-performance electric GT car that brings together state-of-the-art technology and avant-garde design. review continues here

16. BMW Electric Drive and iBrand

BMW EfficientDynamics with BMW eDrive: electric driving pleasure in four plug-in hybrid models from BMW.

The introduction of BMW eDrive technology in BMW brand models opens up all-electric motoring with zero local emissions to new target groups. The BMW 330e with plug-in hybrid drive is being added to the model line-up of the new BMW 3 Series. It will also be possible to sample the pleasure of all-electric driving with zero local emissions in the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer in future, thanks to the BMW 225xe – the Active Tourer variant with eDrive. They will join the BMW 740e luxury sedan (the plug-in hybrid variant of the new BMW 7 Series) and the BMW X5 xDrive40e in the BMW model family, so that in 2016 the BMW eDrive technology initially developed for BMW i cars will be available for BMW models spanning four different vehicle segments – from the compact to the luxury class.

BMW i: a trailblazer for electric driving pleasure and everyday usability.

Following the successful global launch of the purely electrically powered BMW i3 (energy consumption combined: 12.9 kWh; CO2 emissions combined: 0 g/km) and the BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports car (fuel consumption combined: 2.1 l/100 km [134.5 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 49 g/km)

The latest variant of the BMW i3, with its new 94 Ah battery, boasts a range that has increased by over 50 per cent. On the standard NEDC cycle, it achieves a range of 300 kilometres (186 miles) instead of the previous 190 kilometres (118 miles). Besides this, there are extra equipment options for the BMW i3 as well as new, more powerful BMW i Wallbox charging stations for home garages.

The All-New Hyundai IONIQ is the world’s first car to offer hybrid, plug-in hybrid and all-electric powertrains in a single body type.

The IONIQ Hybrid and IONIQ Plug-in both feature the new Kappa 1.6-litre GDI, direct injection petrol, four cylinder engine with a thermal efficiency of 40% delivering 105 PS and 147 Nm of torque. The IONIQ Hybrid’s electric motor delivers 32 kW (43.5 PS) with maximum torque of 170 Nm, powered by a lithium-ion-polymer battery with 1.56 kWh capacity positioned under the rear seats. In combination with the 1.6-litre GDI engine IONIQ Hybrid delivers a system output of 103.6 kW (141 PS) and up to 265 Nm of torque, accelerating to a top speed of up to 185 km/h. with fuel consumption as low as 3.4 l/100 km and CO2 emissions are as low as 79 g/km (combined). The electric motor enables the IONIQ Hybrid to operate in pure electric mode at speeds up to 120 km/h.

Drivers choosing the IONIQ Plug-in can safely rely on 50 kilometres of estimated pure electric driving range powered by the potent 8.9 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery. The 45kW (61 PS) electric motor together with the 1.6-litre GDI four-cylinder Kappa engine offer targeted CO2 emissions as low as 32 g.

The IONIQ Electric offers pure e-mobility from a 28 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery for an estimated maximum range of over 280 km with power consumption as low as 11.5 kWh/ 100 km. The instantly available maximum torque of 295 Nm is delivered by the electric motor with a maximum output of 88 kW (120 PS) by the single-speed reducer transmission accelerating the car up to 165 km/h. What instantly sets the IONIQ Electric apart is its front: without the motor’s need for cooling, the grille gives way to a clean and sleek surface in True Gray or Shine Grey with Polar White exterior colour

This Hydrogen Fuel Cell Car project  is a show car representing an original Design study.

The fuel cell stack is mounted between the front tires, and the hydrogen tank behind the rear seat. Together with the adoption of independent in-wheel motors in all four wheels, this allows for a spacious cabin despite the vehicle's compact vehicle body. By concentrating functional parts at the front and the rear of the vehicle, this next-generation fuel cell vehicle package creates an optimal weight balance and a wide field of vision.

The exterior adopts a distinctive, sleek shape, while the frame structure of the interior ensures rigidity despite the light weight of the car. Altogether, the design conveys the vehicle's advanced technology and outstanding environmental performance.

It is an opportunity to demonstrate potential use not only in transportation but also in providing electricity by charging electric vehicle or serving as electricity source when supplied by external hydrogen source.

Dimension: Length 3800 mm, width 1750 mm, height 1540 mm, wheelbase 3000 mm.

See also Tokyo 2015 44th Motor Show

The Mirai uses the Toyota Fuel Cell System (TFCS), which features both fuel cell technology and hybrid technology, and includes Toyota’s new proprietary FUEL CELL Stack and high-pressure hydrogen tanks. The TFCS is more energy efficient than internal combustion engines and emits no CO2 or pollutants when driven. Drivers can also expect the same level of convenience as offered by gasoline engine vehicles, with a generous cruising range and a hydrogen refueling time of about three minutes. full review continue here

Following the world premiere of the V8-powered LC 500, Lexus introduces the all-new LC 500h, which features the world’s first Multi Stage Hybrid System, next generation of hybrid powertrains specifically designed for performance vehicles.

The new Multi Stage Hybrid System marries the elements of a traditional full hybrid powertrain -including a 3.5 litre V6 petrol engine, a powerful electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack- to a 4-speed automatic gearbox mounted at the rear of the hybrid transmission.
The electric motor generates better acceleration feel than a conventional engine, and adding physical gears more closely aligns engine rpm with the driver’s inputs. The result is a much more direct connection between the accelerator pedal and vehicle acceleration, and 0-100 km/h times well into the sub-5 second range

Koji Sato, Lexus Chief Engineer explains : “In the past, people associated hybrid with ‘eco’. We wanted to change that perception and create a true high-performance package.

“We’ve taken our pioneering Lexus Hybrid Drive to the next level, combining a 299 DIN hp 3.5 Litre V6 Atkinson petrol engine and motor generator with an automatic transmission. This was how we could engineer a system that responds much more directly to driver inputs, while still delivering all the smoothness and efficiency characteristic of a Lexus full hybrid.”

Befitting its evocative name, GT-PHEV Concept offers effortless cruising on and off the beaten track, while accommodating passengers in the hushed comfort and sleek design of a finely crafted interior defined by a horizontal dashboard - reflecting the spaciousness of the cabin as well as making it easier for the driver to sense changes in vehicle’s attitude, as well as high quality yet functional fittings. full review continues here

22. Porsche Panamera 4 Plug-in-hybrid

Paris, 29 September 2016 – Technological excellence, performance, style, exclusivity. These are Ferrari’s unique core values which are perfectly represented by the car launched to mark the 70th anniversary of the foundation of the company. Designed for Ferrari’s most passionate clients, the LaFerrari Aperta is the new limited-edition special series, an open-top version of the acclaimed LaFerrari supercar.

Available with both a carbon-fibre hard top (optional) and soft top, the LaFerrari Aperta boasts the same specification and characteristics as the LaFerrari, combining extraordinary performance with the unique exhilaration of open-top driving. It is equipped with the same hybrid power unit as the coupé: an 800 cv 6,262cc V12 engine (specific power output of 128 cv/l, compression ratio 13.5:1) coupled with a 120 kW electric motor for a total power output of a 963 cv. The powertrain control software has been optimised to increase its overall efficiency thanks to the experience Maranello’s engineers gained with LaFerrari. The dynamic control systems integrated with the active aerodynamics remain unchanged. review continues here

DETROIT, January 12, 2015 – Twenty-five years after the debut of the original, paradigm-shifting NSX supercar, Acura revealed the production version of its highly anticipated successor - the next-generation Acura NSX, developed and produced in the U.S. —to the world’s auto media at the 2015 North American International Auto Show today. In Europe and Asia the new NSX shall be distributed under Honda brand. review continues here

25. Peugeot Fractal Electric Concept

Peugeot Fractal is an electric urban coupé revealing a prospective design of the Peugeot i Cockpit® that explores another of the senses: following on from visual; sight, embodied by the head-up display, and touch; with the compact steering wheel and touchscreen, Peugeot Fractal showcases unprecedented attention to acoustics in automotive design. The result is a level of auditory perception that further enriches the driving experience. full review continues here

26. GLM G4 Electric Prototype

The Kyoto based Japanese GLM is specialized in electric drive components development. They introduced the four seats luxury electric prototype G4 for the first time at the Paris Mondial de l'Automobile. Very few technical details were unveiled. The G4 comes with electric motors at the front and the rear axles. Total power is announced for 400 kW/540 hp and maximum torque 1000 Nm (101 kgm). The operating range is claimed at NEDC 400 km/ 248 miles. The top speed is announced at 250 kph (155 mph) and standing start to 100 kph (62 mph) could be completed in 3.7 seconds.

The prototype was designed and manufactured by Dutch Company Savage Rivale.

"Seeking to develop an Electric Vehicle that not only concretely contributes to a low-carbon society but provides an exciting drive experience to the driver is our vision and daily inspiration. We are here for the thrilling and promising future of the automotive industry" declared Hiroyasu Koma, Chief Executive Officer at GLM.

Munich/ Paris , September 29th 2016. The BMW Group has chosen the Paris Motor Show 2016 to present the BMW Concept X2. This new addition to the compact segment has a distinctive design that stands apart from that of the other X models and also draws on the BMW Group’s history of coupe-making. The result is a compact concept exuding urban sporting appeal.

“The BMW Concept X2 is a vehicle for active people looking for a combination of enjoyment and practicality,” explains Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design. “The concept displays a new and exciting facet of the BMW brand within the compact segment.”.. Review continues here

2. Ferrari GTC4 Lusso T

Paris, 29 September 2016 - Following on from the success of GTC4Lusso, which raised the performance bar for Ferrari’s traditional four-seater  V12 GTs, the Prancing Horse announces the arrival of the new GTC4Lusso T, the first four-seater to be powered by a V8 engine. Ushering in a whole new Ferrari Grand Touring concept, the car is aimed at drivers seeking a car that is sporty and versatile, as well as perfect for driving on a daily basis.

The new GTC4Lusso T is equipped with an evolution of the 3.9-litre V8 turbo which punches out a maximum of 610 cv at 7,500 rpm, guaranteeing powerful acceleration with maximum torque of 760 Nm available between 3,000 and 5,250 rpm. Despite such impressive performance, the GTC4Lusso T’s fuel consumption figures guarantee extended range, ideal for town driving or long trips. full review continues here

Maranello, 3 February 2015 – Forty years on from the unveiling of its first ever mid-rear-engined V8 model, the 308 GTB, the Prancing Horse opens a new chapter in its 8-cylinder history. The Ferrari 488 GTB provides track-level performance that can be enjoyed to the full even by non-professional drivers in everyday use. Its response times, nimbleness and on-the-limit driving guarantee a unique sense of exhilaration and unparalleled driving pleasure.

The new berlinetta brilliantly encapsulates Ferrari’s experience in both F1 and the WEC, where the 458 GT holds the World Championship title and has won its category in the last two editions of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The new model also exploits to the full the know-how gleaned by Ferrari technicians over the last decade through the XX programme which makes extreme track-only cars available to gentleman test-drivers. The data yielded has made a significant contribution to the refinement of the electronic and vehicle control systems so that drivers can make the most of the incredible performance of this new car. full review continues here

Ferrari is availing of the Paris Motor Show to announce a series of special initiatives to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the marque’s foundation in 2017.

An important initiative is the announcement of 70 different individual liveries created by the Tailor Made atelier and inspired by iconic models from Ferrari history. These 70 different configurations will be used to create a maximum of 350 unique cars: each can be used, in fact, once on one example of five models in the current range.

Here is the Ferrari 488 Spider: “The Green Jewel”, sports the signature green livery of the 365 P2 fielded by the British David Piper Racing team. Piper was a regular and very well-known Ferrari privateer and drove the car to victory in the Nine Hours of Kyalami in both 1965 and 1966 and, in 1966, in the prestigious Trophée d’Auvergne at Clermont-Ferrand.

Ferrari is availing of the Paris Motor Show to announce a series of special initiatives to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the marque’s foundation in 2017.

An important initiative is the announcement of 70 different individual liveries created by the Tailor Made atelier and inspired by iconic models from Ferrari history. These 70 different configurations will be used to create a maximum of 350 unique cars: each can be used, in fact, once on one example of five models in the current range.

Here is the Ferrari F12 berlinetta: “The Stirling”, inspired by the 250 GT Berlinetta SWB, winner of the 1961 Tourist Trophy with Stirling Moss: it sports a characteristic Blu Scuro racing livery complete with horizontal white stripe and number roundel.for more information here

6. Ferrari F12 TdF - AlloPneu.com exhibit

Maranello, 13 October 2015 – Ferrari reveals the F12tdf which pays homage to the Tour de France, the legendary endurance road race that Ferrari dominated in the 1950s and ‘60s, particularly with the 1956 250 GT Berlinetta ( image 8 to image 11 ) which won four consecutive editions. It was a race that rewarded cars that combined maximum performance with the driveability and ease of use that enabled the competitors to race for hundreds of kilometres a day over fast, tortuous roads and on circuits. The F12tdf is the ultimate expression of the concept of an extreme road car that is equally at home on the track, and just 799 will be built.

See Car Reviews Ferrari F12 Tdf for further information and illustrations

1 March 2016, Geneva: A new chapter in Aston Martin’s history began at the 86th International Geneva Motor Show with the unveiling of the DB11. The first product launched under the company’s ‘Second Century’ plan, DB11 is the bold new figurehead of the illustrious ‘DB’ bloodline and an authentic, dynamic sporting GT in the finest Aston Martin tradition. ... Review continues here

From the world's most demanding racetrack directly onto the road: Never before has Mercedes‑AMG packed so much motorsport technology into a production vehicle than into the new AMG GT R. The front-mid-engine concept with transaxle, the twin-turbo V-8 engine rated at 430 kW/585 hp, the extensively modified suspension, the new aerodynamics and the intelligent lightweight construction lay the foundations for an especially dynamic driving experience.... Review continues here

September 29, 2016 - Hyundai Motor today unleashed its latest high-performance N concept with the world premiere of RN30 at the 2016 Paris Motor Show. The motorsport-inspired racing concept is developed to deliver passion and pleasure on the track..... Review continues here

Gerry McGovern, Land Rover’s Chief Design Officer said: “New Discovery redefines the large SUV. Land Rover’s design and engineering teams have revolutionised the Discovery DNA to create a highly desirable, extremely versatile and hugely capable premium SUV. We truly believe the result is a radical departure in design that will introduce the Discovery Family to a new, wider customer base.”

Whitley, UK, 28 September 2016 – The New Discovery embodies Land Rover’s drive to go Above and Beyond, combining British desirability with an unstoppable spirit of adventure. It’s an authentic, three-row, seven-seat SUV with unbeatable capability and versatility.
Everyday ingenuity has been at the heart of the Discovery for the last 27 years. New Discovery signals the transformation from cogs to code with more than 1.2 million customers with us on every step of the journey.
The fifth-generation model benefits from Land Rover’s strong, safe and light full-size SUV architecture, delivering comfort and adaptability like no other.

“The introduction of the Levante marks a truly transformative moment in Maserati’s history and enables the Trident to address one of the largest luxury car markets in the world. “The Levante is a true and pure Maserati that has perfect on-road and off-road capabilities, offering owners the ultimate in the elegance, convenience and comfort of a luxury SUV yet allowing for the release of your inner energy. It will definitely set a new benchmark in terms of performance coupled with capability compared to the best current alternatives in the segment.” said Harald Wester, Chief Executive Officer, Maserati

The Levante is fitted with a 3-litre V6 Twin-Turbo petrol engine with either 350hp or 430hp, both engines are combined with the “Q4” intelligent all-wheel drive system – which can transfer torque between the axles instantaneously when required – and an 8-speed automatic gearbox, with integrated Start&Stop System.

In terms of performance, the Levante S (430hp) covers 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds, has a top speed of 264 km/h, and provides combined NEDC-cycle consumption and emission figures of 10.9 l/100 km and 253g CO2/km respectively. The Levante (350hp) accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.0 seconds and achieves a top speed of 251 km/h, with combined cycle consumption and emission figures of 10.7 l/100 km and 249g CO2/km respectively.

“The further development of driver assistance systems harbors considerable safety potential, specifically in urban traffic,” commented Dr. Horst Glaser, Head of Development for Chassis and Driver Assistance Systems, ahead of the concluding event. “Audi’s role in the project concentrates mainly on systems that assist the driver with braking and steering in critical situations in urban traffic. To that end, we require among other things reliable scanning of the vehicle environment,” explained Dr. Glaser.

Audi wants to make city traffic safer and flow more smoothly. That is the motive behind the brand’s involvement in the UR:BAN cooperative project. 31 partners are jointly developing driver assistance and traffic management solutions for urban traffic over the project’s four-year term.

The abbreviation UR:BAN is the German acronym for “Urban Space: User-oriented assistance systems and network management.” The Germany-wide cooperative project has been running since April 2012 and ends in March 2016. It brings together 31 partners from the automotive and supply industry, electronics manufacturers, communication technology and software companies, universities, research institutes and cities. Their common objective is to develop driver assistance and traffic management systems specifically for cities.

The experimental vehicle is equipped with close-to-production sensors: As well as a laser scanner and a video camera at the front, it has a dual radar system at the front, a rear and a side radar system. This technology demonstrator also features control components that helped the three Audi RS7 piloted driving concept vehicles to set up driverless records in 2014 and 2015 on the Hockenheim, Oschersleben, Ascari and Sonoma racetracks.

The Renault Clio RS 16 Concept car celebrates Renault Sport’s 40th anniversary and return to Formula 1. It was unveiled at the 2016 Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix.

“Our aim was to produce a concept car with genuinely outstanding performance credentials,” notes Patrice Ratti, Managing Director of Renault Sport Cars, leader of the project which particularly inspired the development team’s specialists. “On paper, producing a Clio R.S. powered by our most potent engine – namely the 275-horsepower two-litre power unit which delivers peak torque of 360Nm – was an extremely appealing idea, but we had to make sure it was feasible.”
Thanks to new working procedures involving teams from the worlds of motorsport and road cars, the incubation of the highest-performance road-going Renault Sport car ever took just five months.

After three and a half years of unprecedented international success, the Quattroporte has undergone a substantial restyling that accentuates its elegance without altering its signature Maserati personality.
The restyled Quattroporte, available since June 2016, represents the quintessence of Italian sport saloons and is destined to continue a success story that started in 2013.

The exterior of the restyled Quattroporte is recognizable with a new bumper design with matte black profile at the front and the matte black extractor at the rear. The front grille is sharper and more imposing, and it introduces new vertical chrome elements which contrast with the depth of the shark-nose effect. Other distinguishing details of the new Quattroporte are the matte black side skirts and the wing mirrors, which have been slightly restyled to incorporate new technology.

Improvements to the interior have been introduced to create a cleaner look by highlighting only the functional parts. This takes place through the clean integration of the new interface elements with the infotainment area and central console.
Specifically, the redesigned central dashboard now accommodates a high-resolution 8.4” capacitive touchscreen with multi touch technology.

All Quattroporte cars are now equipped with an Air Quality Sensor, a feature that substantially improves passenger comfort levels. This system combines an intelligent sensor and a signal analysis system which measures external pollution levels and prevents polluted air and toxic gases from entering the passenger compartment.

In the World Endurance Championship (WEC) leading LMP1-H Class, Audi prepared a 2016 version with the same 4.0 L 120° twin turbo diesel V6 connected to a six speed sequential gearbox driving the rear axle. A 6 MJ Lithium ion battery replaces previous version's flywheel storage system and operates the front axle motor. The Audi R18 e-tron is 4650 mm (183 in.) long, 1900 mm (75 in.) wide and 1050 mm (41 in.) high. The car weight is 875 kg (1929 lb.). The Audi R18 e-tron presents an entirely revised aerodynamic solution with narrower cabin.

In the World Endurance Championship (WEC) leading LMP1-H Class, Toyota Racing prepared a 2016 version with a twin turbocharged 500 hp 2.4 Litre V6 combustion engine replacing the atmospheric V8 and connected to a new seven speed sequential gearbox driving the rear axle. A 8 MJ Lithium ion battery replaces previous supercapacitor storage system and operates the front axle motor and a rear axle motor. The Toyota TS050 Hybrid is 4650 mm (183 in.) long, 1900 mm (75 in.) wide and 1050 mm (41 in.) high. The car weight is 875 kg (1929 lb.).

With the new 911 GT3 Cup, the Porsche motorsport department has developed the next generation of the production-style GT racing car for the global brand cups. The 1200-kilogram one-seater is powered by a four-litre flat engine delivering 357 kW (485 hp) and variable inlet and outlet camshaft control. The new aerodynamics at the front and rear ensure even greater traction and faster lap times.

Some 3031 units of the 911 GT3 Cup have been built in the 996, 997 and 991 model lines since 1998. This makes the brand cup racing car from Stuttgart the most-produced and most-sold GT racing car in the world.
The new 911 GT3 Cup will be used in the 2017 race season, initially exclusively in the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup, which is held alongside the Formula 1 races, and in the Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland, as well as in North America. As of 2018, the car will also be available for the other brand cups. In total, Porsche is organising 20 of these race series for customer teams around the world, with the 911 GT3 Cup being used exclusively.

The Peugeot 3008 DKR is an evolution of the 2016 Dakar Rally Raid winner Peugeot 2008 DKR. Most elements have been carefully reviewed for better reliability.  

The Peugeot 3008 DKR is propelled by a twin turbo 2993 cc 60° Diesel V6 placed in front of the rear axle. This engine produces 340 hp and 800 Nm and propels the rear axle with a six speed sequential gearbox.

The top speed is claimed for 200 kph (124 mph).

Citroën Racing is getting ready for its big comeback to the FIA World Rally Championship, bringing with it a new challenge and adventure for a team with renowned expertise. It is also another way for the brand to support the launch of New Citroën C3: an energetic car with a unique shape that packs a real punch under the bonnet.  

The world is getting an exclusive first look at the C3 WRC concept car at this year’s Paris Motor Show. full review continues here

Hyundai unveiled the 2017 i20 WRC contender at Paris Mondial de l'Automobile. The car that will start in 2017 WRC Championship has better developed aerodynamic and a more powerful 380 hp engine. No further specification have been unveiled.

At the time of the Mondial, the Team Peugeot Hansel 208 WRX are in fifth overall (Sebastien Loeb) and sixth overall (Tim Hansel) position in the 2016 WRX Championship.

The Peugeot 208 WRX is a four wheel drive automobile propelled by a 2040 cc four cylinder engine producing 540 hp at 6.000 rpm and 850 Nm at 4.500 rpm. The gearbox has six ratio. Minimum weight is 1130 kg. The standing start 0 to 100 kph (62 mph) is claimed at 1.9 seconds.

11. Ligier JSP3 LMP3 Category racing car - Exhibit B.R.M. Chronographes

The Ligier JS P3 takes full advantage of its kinship to the Ligier JS P2, in particular in terms of its design and aerodynamics inspired by the latter, a choice dictated by efficiency. The Ligier JSP3 is prepared by Onroak Automotive.

The Onroak Automotive engineers have also taken great pains to ensure that the LM P3 is easy to run and has cost capped the components respecting the philosophy of accessibility to the LM P3 category.

Engine mandatory for the LM P3 category: NISSAN VK50, V8, 5000 cc, 420 hp

Chassis: monocoque carbon / HP COMPOSITES

Dimensions length: 4605 mm width: 1900 mm wheelbase: 2860 mm

Weight: 900 kg – homologation weight

1. Renault AX 1909 - "Les Brigades du Tigre" TV series 1974 1983 -Movie 2006

3. Aston Martin DB10 2014 - Movie Spectre 2016

5. Cadillac Miller-Meteor Ecto 1 1959 - Movie Ghostbusters 1980

7. Peugeot 403 Cabriolet 1961 - Lieutenant Colombo

8. Peugeot Limovian 2013 - Movie "L'Ecume des Jours" Michel Gondry 2013

Photos and Texts : Paul DAMIENS, NEWSPRESS and Manufacturers Archives