LA 2010: Subaru Impreza Concept【Video】

Subaru has unveiled its new Impreza Design Concept at this week's LA Auto Show, which previews the carmaker's new "Confidence in Motion" design and brand strategy. The Impreza has been Subaru's global compact car since 1992.

A four-door coupe, the Impreza Concept features a wing motif, part of what Subaru is calling a "fresh expression" of identity for the brand. All-wheel drive is tucked under the broad fenders, and the engine is a 2.0-liter naturally-aspirated Boxer engine paired with a CVT.

The exterior features a hexagonal grille with spread wings in the center and hawk eye-style headlights. The hood, grille, and headlights were designed to project three-dimensional character. The rear gets a garnish that radiates outward from the center, sharp-edged rear lights, and new taillamp.

Inside, designers integrated the instrument panel with the door trim. Dark-blue piping and double stitching accent the four leather seats. A screen in the center dash combines navigation, vehicle information and audio. The steering wheel gets redundant controls.




Press Release

SUBARU DEBUTS IMPREZA DESIGN CONCEPT AT LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW

• Design concept hints at future model.

• Interior integrates latest in infotainment and safety technology.

• New-generation Subaru Boxer engine and CVT.

LOS ANGELES, November xx, 2010 - Subaru of America, Inc. today unveiled the Impreza Design Concept, which previews the carmaker's new "Confidence in Motion" design and brand strategy. The Impreza Design Concept will remain on display throughout the show, which runs November 19-28 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. The Impreza has been Subaru's global compact car since 1992.

Built to express possible future Subaru design elements, the Impreza Design Concept conveys a sporty and lively "four-door coupe" style. The Impreza Concept combines environmental compatibility and comfortable ride of the Impreza with the trusted performance that Subaru's Symmetrical All Wheel Drive provides. The designers blended two ideas - "dynamic flow and confident stance" - to showcase Subaru's engineering core values of dynamic performance, safety, driving enjoyment and quality. The Impreza Design Concept features a roomy four-passenger interior.

From the front, the Impreza Design Concept is clearly recognizable as a Subaru, with a hexagonal grille with spread wings in the center and hawk eye-style headlights. At the same time, the front view previews a new direction for the brand's design, with the hood, grille and headlights designed to project three-dimensional character.

Fin-shaped fog lamps, which follow the wing motif, emphasize a fresh expression of Subaru identity. The car's low-and-wide stance is meant to convey reliability, security, and safety. The design of the prominent wheel arches echo that message while also emphasizing the vehicle's All-Wheel Drive technology. The new-generation Legacy debuted this design feature.

In profile, the Impreza Design Concept shows a sleek, continuous line from the A-pillar, along the roof and through the C-pillar. The design yields both a roomy cabin and excellent aerodynamic performance. Subaru designers applied simple and clean lines and surfaces rather than complicated forms. This produces a contrast with the powerful fender design and results in a lean side view, accented by satin silver window frames. The wedge-shaped side rear-view cameras sit along the sharp line of the A-pillar.

At the rear, the hexagonal theme repeats with a garnish that radiates outward from the center. The rear lights also follow a sharp-edged theme, and are stretched into the body sides to join the character line along the car's flanks. The taillamp design features a unique layering and gradation to create the impression of depth.

The front and rear bumper corners, shaped in the wind tunnel, contribute to the car's overall aerodynamic efficiency. Diffusers on the underside of the rear bumper and the rear deck emphasize sportiness and also do their part for aerodynamics, contributing to vehicle fuel efficiency. The Sky Silver exterior color underscores the Impreza Design Concept's stylish and dynamic silhouette, and suggests a silver tone to be used on the next generation of Subaru vehicles. The high-luster silver aluminum wheels, with their five-twin-spoke design, convey vehicle lightness and agility. Carbon fins garnish the spokes, aiding brake cooling.

"Dynamic, Enticing, Secure" Interior
For the Impreza Design Concept's interior, the designers followed a theme of "Dynamic, Enticing, Secure." The smooth integration of the instrument panel with the door trim and armrests suggests sporty yet comfortable driving. The roomy platinum-leather four-seat layout envelops occupants. Dark blue piping and double stitching accent the leather. A "layered" approach to color, with the upper part light platinum and the lower part a shade darker, gives the interior a feeling of spaciousness and sophistication.

A large display in the center dash combines functions for navigation, vehicle information and audio. The touch panel technology provides ease of use, seamlessly melding information and entertainment features.
The platinum leather-wrapped steering wheel features D-shaped spokes set off by piano-black center sections. The wheel innovatively incorporates its own touch panels, giving the driver easy access to various vehicle functions.

New Safety and Performance
Subaru's own advanced driving-assist EyeSight system is installed along the front edge of the roof. The images the camera takes can be viewed on a monitor in the center of the gauge cluster, positioned for easy visibility. EyeSight is also networked with the latest in collision-prevention technology, underscoring the safety that customers expect from Subaru.

The combination of the 2.0-liter naturally aspirated Boxer engine with a LineartronicTM Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) represents Subaru's next-generation powertrain. A 2.5-liter version of this engine powers the 2011 Forester.

2010 LA : Honda Fit EV Concept

Honda has releases electric version Fit EV Concept, which will debut at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Visually, the Fit EV doesn't stray too far from the design language we've come to know from the gasoline-powered hatchback, albeit with a few concept-y touches thrown in for good measure. Interior refinement is standard-grade Fit spec, as well, with a modified gauge cluster showing battery and efficiency information.

The Fit EV concept also borrows the three driving modes that the Honda CR-V hybrid utilizes. The Econ, Normal and Sport modes give drivers an option on the EV's responsiveness. The Sport mode promises performance akin to a similar car with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gas engine. The current Fit packs a 1.5-liter four-cylinder.

The 5-passenger Honda Fit EV will indeed enter production and will be powered by a lithium-ion battery and coaxial electric motor. The motor allows the Fit EV to reach 90 mph, which should be more than enough for urban driving. On a full charge, the Honda Fit EV can get a total range of 100 miles (70 miles when applying EPA’s adjustment factor). A drive can maximize his/her driving range with a a 3-mode electric drive system, adapted from the 2011 Honda CR-Z

Recharging time, Honda said, will be up to six hours using a 240-Volt charger, and up to 12 hours using 120-Volt current.




Press Release

World Debut of Honda Fit EV Concept Electric Vehicle and Plug-in Hybrid Platform at Los Angeles Auto Show

Advanced environmental vehicles key to Honda Electric Mobility Network

LOS ANGELES – Nov. 17, 2010 – Honda today unveiled the all-new Fit EV Concept electric vehicle and the platform for a midsize plug-in hybrid vehicle. Both vehicles are integral to the Honda Electric Mobility Network, the company's comprehensive approach to reducing CO2 emissions through innovative products, energy-management and energy-production technologies.

The Fit EV Concept hints strongly at the direction and styling for Honda's upcoming production Fit EV all-electric vehicle, which will be introduced to the U.S. and Japan in 2012. The all-new plug-in hybrid platform showcases Honda's next-generation, two-motor hybrid technology set to debut in 2012.

"Honda's long history with electromotive technologies has enabled us to understand customer requirements," said Takanobu Ito, Honda Motor Co., Ltd. President and CEO. "In Honda's view, an electric vehicle must offer great utility and be fun to drive. Fit EV's urban commuting capability will be a perfect addition to the full-function mobility of the plug-in hybrid and FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle."

Honda Fit EV

The Fit EV is designed to meet the daily driving needs of the average metropolitan commuter and utilizes the same 5-passenger layout found in the popular Fit hatchback. When the Fit EV production model is introduced, it will be powered by a lithium-ion battery and coaxial electric motor.

The high-density motor, derived from the FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle, delivers excellent efficiency and power while remaining quiet at high speeds. The Fit EV will have a top speed of 90 mph.

The Fit EV will achieve an estimated 100-mile driving range per charge using the US EPA LA41 city cycle (70 miles when applying EPA's adjustment factor). Driving range can be maximized by use of an innovative 3-mode electric drive system, adapted from the 2011 Honda CR-Z sport hybrid. The system allows the driver to select between Econ, Normal, and Sport to instantly and seamlessly change the driving experience to maximize efficiency or improve acceleration. While in Econ mode, practical driving range can increase by as much as 17 percent, compared to driving in Normal mode, and up to 25 percent compared to driving in Sport mode. Acceleration improves significantly when in Sport mode, generating performance similar to a vehicle equipped with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine.

In addition to the 3-mode E-Drive system, the Fit EV will include several interactive coaching systems to assist the driver in maximizing battery range.

A special meter display advises the driver when to shut off air conditioning and other accessories to conserve battery power.

To help the driver manage the electric vehicle ownership experience, the Fit EV will have a standard connectivity system that allows the driver to stay connected through a smartphone and personal computer, or the Honda-exclusive interactive remote, while away from the vehicle. The pocket-friendly, interactive remote provides connectivity to the vehicle without the need for an internet connection or mobile phone signal. Through the connectivity system, drivers will be able to remotely view the vehicle's state of charge, initiate charging and activate the air conditioning, even while connected to the grid, to reduce the drain on the battery at start-up. The mobile application and website also offers the ability to set charging notifications and alerts to optimize utility rates, and provides 24-hour roadside assistance, along with a public charging station locator. The Fit EV will come equipped with a standard Honda Satellite Linked Navigation System™ that includes a public charging-station locator capability.

The Fit EV is designed to be easy and convenient to charge. Battery recharging can be accomplished in less than 12 hours when using a conventional 120-volt outlet, and less than six hours when using a 240-volt outlet.

The Fit EV Concept displayed at the Los Angeles Auto Show features an exclusive Deep Clear Blue Pearl exterior color and distinctive five-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with blue inserts. The Concept has unique LED headlights, a chrome front fascia, aerodynamic bumper, clear LED taillights and EV decals. Inside, the Fit EV Concept is outfitted in an eco-friendly gray bio-fabric on the seating surfaces.

Displayed alongside the Fit EV Concept at the show is a prototype Honda charging stand. To begin charging, the driver swipes a card in front of the screen and then connects the charger to the vehicle. The Honda charging stand provides a glimpse at the future of an electric-charging infrastructure that is easy to use and intuitive for consumers.

Honda Plug-in Hybrid

Honda also unveiled a plug-in hybrid platform, which showcases Honda's next-generation two-motor hybrid system. Integrated into a mid-size sedan platform, the plug-in hybrid is designed to be compatible with daily driving habits, allowing for short, frequent trips in all-electric mode, while providing long-distance driving capability when needed. The Honda two-motor system continuously moves through three different modes to maximize driving efficiency: all-electric, gasoline-electric and a unique, engine direct-drive mode. The plug-in hybrid also uses regenerative braking to charge the battery.

In all-electric mode, the vehicle uses a 6kWh lithium-ion battery and a powerful 120 kW electric motor. The all-electric mode achieves a range of approximately 10-15 miles in city driving and a top speed of 62 mph. Fully recharging the battery will take 2 to 2.5 hours using a 120-volt outlet and 1 to 1.5 hours using a 240-volt outlet.

The vehicle can also run in a gasoline-electric hybrid mode, the platform features a fuel-efficient 2.0-liter, i-VTEC® inline 4-cylinder, Atkinson cycle engine, paired with an electric Continuously Variable Transmission (E-CVT). An onboard generator adds to the battery powering the electric motor.

For more efficient high-speed cruising, the vehicle can engage in a direct-drive mode, in which only the engine drives the front wheels.

Advanced Technology Demonstration Program

Honda will launch an Advanced Technology Demonstration Program this year to provide real-world testing of its new vehicles, as well as research into customer behavior and usability, public charging infrastructure planning and sustainability initiatives. Partners in the program will include Stanford University, City of Torrance, Calif. and Google, Inc.

Honda Electric Mobility Network and Energy Management

Together with the Honda FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle, the Fit EV and the future plug-in hybrid vehicle are a part of the company's comprehensive approach to reducing CO2 emissions. Honda is unique in its efforts to create both environmentally-responsible products and the renewable energy solutions to power them. Honda is currently producing and marketing thin-film solar panels in Japan, and an installation is planned at Honda Performance Development in Southern California in early 2011.

Honda is also using innovative ways to produce and distribute energy through sustainable methods, such as using solar power to produce hydrogen fuel from water. Additionally, Honda is developing home energy-management systems that utilize micro-cogeneration technology and solar cell modules to power and heat homes as well as charge electric vehicles. The Honda Electric Mobility Network joins clean vehicle technology, renewable energy production and energy management solutions for the benefit of customers and society.

Honda Environmental Leadership

The Fit EV and a plug-in hybrid sedan will be introduced to the U.S. and Japan in 2012, joining Honda's diverse lineup of environmentally-responsible vehicles, which include the FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle, the Civic GX compressed natural gas-powered sedan (U.S. only) and four distinct gasoline-electric hybrid models: Civic Hybrid; CR-Z sport hybrid; Insight hybrid and Fit Hybrid (Japan and Europe only).

Honda was recently named America's "Greenest Automaker" for the fifth consecutive time by the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS). The award is earned by the company with the lowest combined smog-forming and greenhouse-gas emissions (primarily CO2) in its U.S. automobile fleet.

Honda has led the UCS rankings of overall vehicle environmental performance since the first UCS study in 2000, marking a decade of Honda leadership in reduced vehicle emissions. Honda earned the recognition this year with an industry-best score based on model year 2008 data, the latest available for analysis.

American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

Honda began operations in the U.S. in 1959 with the establishment of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Honda's first overseas subsidiary. Honda began U.S. production of motorcycles in 1979 and automobiles in 1982. With nine U.S. plants, Honda has invested more than $12.7 billion in its U.S. operations. The company employs nearly 25,000 associates and annually purchases $12 billion in parts and materials from more than 530 U.S. suppliers. Honda vehicles are manufactured using domestic and globally sourced parts.

LA 2010: Cadillac Urban Luxury Concept

General Motors unveiled the Urban Luxury Concept at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The Urban Luxury Concept is filled with touch screens and projected displays in addition to high-end trim materials likecarbon-colored wood, aluminum and ceramic. Those screens and displays also allow for more interior space, which is ultra important since this Caddy is a mere 151 inches long, 68.1 inches wide and 56.9 inches tall. Cadillac is toying with the very limits of its Art and Science ethos by compressing luxury, technology and design into this tight package.

Powered by a turbocharged 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine equipped with electric assist technology, engine start-stop function, brake energy regeneration and a dry dual-clutch transmission. GM hopes the new engine of the Cadillac Urban Luxury Concept will be able to offer up to 56 mpg in the city and 65 mpg on the highway fuel consumption.

The high-tech cabin has ambient lighting and is trimmed in blue and gray leather with contrasting fabric, as well as carbon-color wood inlays, brushed aluminum accents and ceramic materials. Next-generation interactive technology is enabled via touchpad screens, capacitive multitouch switches and projected readouts, including a high-definition head-up display.

Source: GM




Press Release

Cadillac Urban Luxury Concept: A Study Of Efficient And Intelligent Design For A New Luxury Customer

LOS ANGELES - Cadillac today introduced the Urban Luxury Concept, a design study exploring a new type of vehicle that offers a luxury experience in a diminutive size. The Cadillac Urban Luxury Concept complements its compact dimensions with the design, features and technology for which Cadillac is known.

"The Cadillac Urban Luxury Concept celebrates its scale with intelligent, innovative content that makes it unique regardless of its size," said Clay Dean, Director of GM North American Advanced Design and Cadillac Brand Champion. "It has a small exterior footprint, but is roomy inside."

Conceived and designed in the Los Angeles area, where tight, confined parking areas for apartments, office buildings and even suburban homes are part of everyday driving, the concept weaves Cadillac's iconic design elements into a form that eschews conventional vehicle design to answer the needs of those metropolitan motorists.

Comparable in size to popular city cars found in Paris, Shanghai and London, the Urban Luxury Concept demonstrates a departure from conventional vehicle design. It seats four, with easy access to all seats available via a pair of scissor-type doors that extend outward and rotate forward when opened. The design fosters a roomy passenger area, which is trimmed in exquisite materials and features next-generation interactive technology. Touch-pad screens and projected readouts take the place of most traditional gauges and serve as the audio and climate system controls - a design feature that helps open up the interior for greater passenger space.

"While small in size, this concept is an exploration of what Cadillac could be in the future, as the brand continues to focus on redefining industry standards for advanced vehicle design and integrated technology," said Don Butler, vice president for Cadillac marketing.

Engineers have developed a concept hybrid propulsion system for the Urban Luxury Concept that includes a turbocharged 1.0L three-cylinder engine employing electric assist technology, engine start-stop function, brake energy regeneration and a dry dual-clutch transmission. Based on extensive prototype and production experience, a combination of these technologies could offer projected fuel economy of 56 mpg in the city and 65 mpg on the highway, in a vehicle of the size and configuration of the Urban Luxury Concept.

A new scale of Art & Science

As a strong example of form following function, the unconventional body style maximizes passenger space and makes a technology statement. At the push of a button, the large, scissor-type doors push away from the body and rotate in a seamless, elegant motion. A large aperture allows for effortless entry and exit- particularly in tight city parking spaces.

"This is a new vision in vehicle design that was created to answer the needs of city dwellers," said Frank Saucedo, lead designer. "The door design is purposeful and technologically advanced, which is the essence of how we're taking Cadillac into the future."

The Urban Luxury Concept's design is marked by a sharp profile, supported by forward-sweeping body lines that combine to suggest motion even when the vehicle is stationary. The 19-inch wheels are pushed to the edges of the body - a design that creates almost no overhangs, leaving more space inside. In fact, the car's wheelbase is 97.1 inches (2,467 mm), but the overall length is only 151 inches (3,835 mm). The interior room is bolstered by a wide, 68.1-inch (1,730 mm) stance and 56.9-inch (1,446 mm) height.

"It may not look like Cadillacs on the road today, but it shares the comfortable and high-tech elements that owners have come to associate with larger, traditional luxury sedans," said Saucedo. "As more customers demand premium features even in smaller vehicles, a vehicle like the Urban Luxury Concept could be a solution."

Technologically advanced interior

A large windshield and twin skylights create an open, airy feeling and enhance the perception of spaciousness inside with seating for four. A minimalist approach blends with refined materials, colors and lighting. These elements combine to create a passenger space that conveys the new perception of luxury: small, exquisitely detailed and fitted with the latest in digital technology. The front row passenger seat slides and reclines to offer a relaxing seating position. When folded flat, the seat's rear panel offers modern parents a conveniently integrated Orbit Baby SmartHubTM docking station within reach.

"There is no minimum size for a Cadillac driving experience. The Urban Luxury Concept's interior reflects the ‘smaller is better' aesthetic that permeates the world of technology," said Saucedo. "And while this design philosophy reflects what's going on in the world around us, it also has a more practical use when it comes to the Urban Luxury Concept: It creates more interior space."

The conventional "center stack" of controls is replaced by a divided interface that creates more space at the forward section of the interior. A pair of projected readouts flanks a large, prominent analog speedometer reminiscent of a high-end time piece, assisted by a high-definition head-up display. Capacitive multi-touch switches throughout the interior ensure seamless and intuitive electronic control.

The technology behind the unique touch pad controls is ergonomically tucked around the steering wheel to deliver real-time feedback for an efficient commute. The right-hand touch pad is hidden until deployed or detached by the passenger, who can interact online without compromising the driver's control. Via the on-board network, a passenger can request destination directions or audio playlists be integrated in the driver controls. Also woven into the system is OnStar with advanced voice recognition interaction, which allows the driver to do more without taking his or her eyes off the road or hands off the steering wheel.

Befitting its role as a Cadillac, the Urban Luxury Concept's interior materials convey luxury through quality and advanced technology. Blue and grey leather dominates the interior space and is contrasted by fabric selected for its high-tech look and feel, and usually found in couture fashion. It is used on the seats, as well as parts of the instrument panel and door panels.

The interior is finished with carbon-color wood inlays, brushed aluminum accents and ceramic materials. Ambient lighting conveys an upscale aura that is complemented by the ultra-modern Tanzanite glow of the touch-screen displays.