Honda Step Bus Concept
Filed under: Auto Shows, Concept Cars, Honda, Los Angeles Auto Show
Designed around high energy lifestyles, the Honda Step Bus Concept represents the ultimate expression of Honda packaging prowess with a mid-engine design and a fully maximized and quickly adaptable interior.
The highly configurable, high-tech interior provides ultimate urban utility from the outside in. Sliding front doors with a space efficient design let people enter and exit in tight spaces. Although micro in exterior size, the cavernous interior can harbor large amounts of band equipment, sports gear and other bulky items.
“Following the traditional Honda theme of ‘man maximum, machine minimum,’ the Step Bus seeks to create the largest possible interior with the smallest possible exterior,” said John Mendel, senior vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “This innovative concept vehicle shows how large functionality can easily exist within small vehicle packages.”
The Step Bus Concept is a product of the Honda R&D Co., Ltd., Wako design center in Saitama prefecture, Japan. Purely a styling concept, the vehicle uses a mid-engine, rear wheel drive platform with a small displacement power plant. The 5-passenger interior features modular construction with a spacious interior. The modular construction is highlighted by tracks in the door that can hold beverage containers, cell phones and more. Advanced technology includes a next-generation navigation system. The tall body provides room for a ceiling-mounted storage tray. Painted in light green metallic, the body design embraces a bold vertical architecture style that creates a large presence within a small space.
Honda REMIX
Filed under: Auto Shows, Concept Cars, Green Hybrids/Alternative Fuels, Honda, Los Angeles Auto Show
The Honda REMIX small sport concept vehicle made its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today. The REMIX explores the shape and design of a two-seat sports car focused on agile and fun-to-drive performance that can also provide exceptional practicality as a daily driver.
Sports car in shape and design, the low-slung REMIX features a wrap-around canopy that adds a fighter jet-feel to the driving experience. The aluminum-color exterior accentuates every line and curve in the geometric, yet fluid styling. Capable of delivering more than just driving performance, the rear storage area supplies generous cargo room.
“Pure Honda to the core, the REMIX concept vehicle focuses on a simple, lightweight and fun-to-drive philosophy,” said John Mendel, senior vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “The concept balances sports car virtues with real-world practicality.”
The REMIX Small Sport Concept is a product of the Honda R&D Americas, Inc., Advanced Design Studio in Southern California. Purely a design concept, the vehicle is fashioned around a front-wheel drive small car platform with a 4-cylinder engine and a 6-speed manual transmission. A sport suspension, along with aggressive tires and brakes, further supplement its performance side.
“The REMIX blends familiar Honda themes into a new, fresh design,” said Ben Davidson, REMIX lead designer, Honda R&D Americas, Inc. “Smooth and fluid surfaces provide a sports car identity to the geometric shapes that form the functional aspect of this vehicle.”
Honda R&D Americas, Inc., began its operations in California in 1975 with local market research activities and has steadily grown its capabilities over the past 30 years to include all aspects of new vehicle design and development. Recent development efforts include trend-setting products like the Honda Ridgeline, Pilot, Element, Civic Coupe and Civic Si.
The company will operate 10 major facilities in North America with the addition of two new design centers by the end of 2007. More than 1,300 designers, engineers and support personnel are engaged in the development of Honda and Acura passenger cars, motorcycles and power equipment products for North America and global markets. Its main centers of operation include the Los Angeles Center (Torrance) responsible for market research, concept development and styling design; the Ohio Center (Raymond, Ohio) responsible for complete product development, testing and support of North American supplier and manufacturing operations; and two dynamic test facilities in Mojave Desert, California, and East Liberty, Ohio.
Honda FCX Concept
Filed under: Auto Shows, Concept Cars, Green Hybrids/Alternative Fuels, Honda, Los Angeles Auto Show
A fully-functional Honda FCX Concept vehicle will be on display for the first time to the general public at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The FCX Concept features a newly developed compact, high-efficiency Honda FC Stack as well as a low-floor, low-riding, short-nose body. It offers a comfortably large cabin and futuristic styling along with significant improvements in power output and environmental performance. Limited marketing of a totally new fuel cell vehicle based on this concept model is to begin in 2008 in Japan and the U.S.
To meet Honda objectives for significant gains in both environmental and driving performance, the FCX Concept is equipped with a V Flow fuel cell platform consisting of a compact, high-efficiency fuel cell stack arranged in an innovative center-tunnel layout. This has allowed designers to create an elegant, low-riding, sedan form that would have been difficult to achieve in a conventional fuel cell vehicle. This new fuel cell stack is 20 percent smaller and 30 percent lighter than the current FCX FC Stack, yet its power output is 14kW greater. The drive motor has been positioned coaxially with the gearbox for a more compact design, with output increased by 15kW. Overall, the power plant is about 180kg lighter than that of the current FCX and about 40 percent smaller in volume. The result is improved energy efficiency and performance along with a more spacious interior.
While with previous fuel cell stacks the hydrogen and the water formed in electricity generation flowed horizontally, the new FCX Concept features vertical-flow design. This allows gravity to assist in discharging the water that is produced, resulting in a major improvement in water drainage, key to high-efficiency fuel stack performance. The result is stable power generation under a broad range of conditions, and higher output from a smaller package. Low-temperature startup has also been significantly improved, enabling cold-weather starts at temperatures 10ŒÓC lower than the current FCX - as low as minus 30ŒÓC.
As an auxiliary power source, the FCX Concept carries a compact, high-efficiency lithium ion battery, contributing to increased power output and a more compact power plant. These efficiency improvements to major power plant components give the vehicle a travel range approximately 30 percent greater than the current FCX. The vehicle is also highly efficient, with an energy efficiency of around 60 percent — approximately three times that of a gasoline-engine vehicle, twice that of a hybrid vehicle, and 10 percent better than the current FCX.
Other features include seat upholstery and door linings made from Honda Bio-Fabric, a plant-based material that offers outstanding durability and resistance to sunlight damage. Other improvements such as Shift-by-Wire and a newly designed instrument panel with easy-to-read display of hydrogen fuel consumption facilitate improved ease of operation.
The new fuel cell vehicle currently under development for release in 2008, will feature the principle technologies of the FCX Concept to achieve a new dimension in environmentally friendly driving pleasure not found with gasoline-engine vehicles.
2007 BMW X5
Filed under: Auto Shows, BMW, Crossovers, Los Angeles Auto Show, SUVs
A look at what’s new for the 2007 BMW X5 3.0si ($46,595) and 4.8i ($55,195)
-All new models, with revised chassis, more powerful, fuel efficient engines and more responsive 6-speed automatic in both models
-Available 7-passenger seating
-New option packages/New stand-alone options
-BMW Ultimate Service program
-New front suspension, double wishbone multi-ink with upper A-arms in addition to double-pivot lower links; first non-strut-type BMW front suspension since 1961
-Interior: longer, wider, taller. New leather grade
-Exterior: new metallic colors-Monaco Blue, Deep Green, Mineral Green, Platinum Bronze, Space Gray. New wheel designs
Safety: All new body structure, embodying newest crash-energy management. New occupant-detection sensor, front passenger’s seat
Check out Roadfly’s X5 video here:
2007 Audi R8
Filed under: Audi, Los Angeles Auto Show, Sports Coupes, Supercars
Audi has incorporated the name and the genes of the five-time Le Mans winner, the Audi R8, into a spectacular sports car. Three years after the unveiling of the Audi Le Mans quattro concept car, the production version will be making its debut at the Paris Motor Show in the guise of the new Audi R8 mid-engined sports model. It is a fascinating driving machine and the sporty pinnacle of the Audi brand. The mid-mounted 420 bhp V8 FSI engine, quattro permanent four-wheel drive and Audi Space Frame aluminium body form the basis for truly outstanding driving dynamics. The Audi R8 will be available to order from 28 September 2006; first deliveries will be made in the first half of 2007.
As the first Audi mid-engined sports car, the R8 combines Audi’s experience gained from numerous motorsport triumphs with groundbreaking design and the acknowledged technological expertise of the brand. This expertise has led to the slogan ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ becoming a byword for leading-edge technology both on the race track and on the road.
Even the standard equipment of the Audi R8 meets the high demands of customers in this segment. Xenon plus lights, LED rear lights and daytime running lights, 18-inch aluminium wheels, an audio system with 7-inch monitor, an anti-theft alarm and Leather/Alcantara interior trim are just some of the items on the extensive list of standard features.
The range of optional extras leaves virtually nothing to be desired. A Bang & Olufsen sound system, featuring an output of 465 watts and 12 specially designed speakers, delivers surround sound of the highest standard. A microphone-based vehicle noise compensation system adjusts audio levels to changing road conditions and speeds.
In the high-revving 420 bhp eight-cylinder engine, the evolution of FSI petrol direct injection technology has reached a new high. This technology has also enjoyed many triumphs in the Audi R8 race car.
The figures illustrate the outstanding potential of the eight-cylinder unit. At
7,800 rpm the 4.2-litre engine delivers 309 kW (420 bhp) of power output. Peak torque is 430 Newton-metres from 4.500 to 6,000 rpm. And no less than 90 per cent of this maximum torque is maintained consistently throughout a wide engine speed range from 3,500 all the way to 7,600 rpm. As a result of these qualities, the eight-cylinder power unit provides maximum thrust in virtually any driving situation.
The performance figures are equally impressive: the R8 accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 301 km/h.
New BMW X5: Video & Review
Filed under: 4x4s/Off-roaders, BMW, Crossovers, First Drives, SUVs
BMW’s new X5 (known as the E70) is currently making its world debut at the 2006 Los Angeles International Auto Show. We here at Roadfly, however, pulled a few strings and took the wheel of it a few weeks ago in the beautiful countryside near Spartanburg, SC. We liked it so much that we decided to do a full Roadfly TV video review of it.
BMW’s new X5 stands head and shoulders above the previous-generation X5. While still clearly recognizable as an X5, it is completely new, from engine to interior to body.
The interior of the X5 is finished with a quality worthy of BMW’s 7-series. For audio enthusiasts, the CD player is MP3-compatible AND an auxiliary input jack is standard for an iPod or other audio player. The X5 has been stretched almost 8 inches, split between the cargo area and the passenger cabin, which allows not only a third-row seat option and more storage space, but also for a 6-foot plus passenger to ride comfortably behind a 6-foot plus driver!
Featuring BMW’s Valvetronic technology in both the 4.8i V8 and 3.0si straight six models, the X5 features more horsepower and torque than its predecessor (35 more hp for both models, and 26 and 11 lb-ft of torque, respectively). The X5 4.8i hits 0-60 in 6.4 seconds, and the 6-speed Steptronic transmission ensures smooth acceleration with shift points almost impossible to detect.
It may look like an SUV, but make no mistake–the new X5 is powerful, fast, and nimble. Watch in the video as we take it on a figure 8 through a wet skidpad and can’t get it to spin out, despite our best efforts even with BMW’s dynamic stability control off!
As we went through our footage, preparing the Roadfly TV story, we found ourselves wanting even more time with this capable performer. BMW has really hit the mark in the luxury SUV segment. Watch the video here:
2007 Nissan Sentra SE-R
Filed under: Auto Shows, Los Angeles Auto Show, Nissan, Sedans/Saloons
The 2007 Nissan Sentra SE-R, which marks the return of Nissan’s legendary sport compact sedan, offers more power, performance and technology than any SE-R that has come before. It is available in two models – Sentra SE-R and Sentra SE-R Spec V, each utilizing an advanced 2.5-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine designed specifically for the SE-R.
Special emphasis was placed on the SE-R Spec V’s new high output version of the QR25DE 4-cylinder engine, with extensive modifications to the top end of the engine that help the SE-R Spec V achieve 200 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. Among the unique Spec V engine features are use of a unique resin intake manifold and dual branch exhaust manifold; revised piston crown shape to support a higher compression ratio (10.5:1); iridium tipped spark plugs for improved combustion characteristics; and a revised cam shaft profile, reinforced connecting rods and 8-counterweight crankshaft to achieve a higher redline limit of 6,800 rpm. The SE-R Spec V is available only with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission.
In the area of chassis, handling and braking performance, the SE-R Spec V is equipped with higher rate springs, shocks and bushings; 225/45WR17 uni-directional high performance tires; high capacity front disc brakes with 12.6-inch rotors; and a revised cowl top structure and a unique trunk mounted “V” brace, both utilized for increased body rigidity.
The SE-R model offers fun-to-drive performance and aggressive, sporty appearance to those who want the convenience of an automatic transmission. The QR25DE engine is tuned to deliver 177 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque (on regular unleaded fuel).
The Sentra SE-R is equipped exclusively with Nissan’s Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission) with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
Inside the Sentra SE-R cabin are a number of unique SE-R features, including an exclusive black interior color, sport bucket front seats with SE-R stitching, unique seat fabrics, red seat belts (Spec V only), aluminum foot pedal pads, leather-appointed steering wheel and shift knob, and an additional two-gauge meter pack.
Like all 2007 Sentra models, the new SE-R also offers an array of comfort and convenience features including standard power windows and door locks, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD 6-speaker audio, and an integrated overhead compact disc holder. Optional features include a 340-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system, factory installed satellite radio and Nissan’s Intelligent Key keyless entry system (SE-R only).
Standard safety features for the Sentra SE-R include an Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual stage front air bags and occupant classification system for the front passenger seat, front seat side air bags, side curtain air bags (for front and rear outboard occupant head protection), front seat Active Head Restraints and Zone Body construction.
2008 Nissan Altima Coupe
Filed under: Coupes, Los Angeles Auto Show, Nissan
The all-new Altima Coupe, the first-ever two-door model in Altima history, fills a desire among target customers for a more personal expression of style, individuality and fashionable appearance. The Altima Coupe’s unique exterior design is intended to stand out in a crowd of sedan-based two-door models with magnetic, perfectly proportioned styling with a shorter wheelbase, shorter overall length and lower height than the Altima Sedan.
Though the new Altima Coupe shares much with the latest edition of the Altima Sedan, which went on sale in November 2006, the Coupe’s smaller dimensions, driver-oriented cockpit and unique styling give it an extensive amount of separation from the Altima Sedan.
Under the new Altima Coupe’s sophisticated exterior design, this latest addition to the Altima family shares the platform, powertrain and user-friendly features and innovations of the new fourth-generation Altima.
The new Altima Coupe is offered with a choice of two engines and two transmissions. The 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC V6 is the “next generation” version of the 12-time Ward’s “10 Best Engines” award-winning VQ-series V6. For use in the Altima Coupe, it is rated at 270 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
Also available with the new Altima Coupe is a 2.5-liter DOHC 16-valve QR25 inline 4-cylinder, producing 175 horsepower (170 hp CAL) and 180 lb-ft of torque (175 lb-ft CAL). This engine has been refined from the previous version, with a larger, equal-length intake manifold, increased compression ratio and reduced friction characteristics.
Both the 3.5-liter V6 and 2.5-liter 4-cylinder models are available with Nissan’s advanced Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission) or 6-speed manual transmissions.
