VOLKSWAGEN REVEALS INNOVATIVE SPACE UP! BLUE CONCEPT
Wednesday, November 14th, 2007
Volkswagen today unveiled the third and most advanced iteration yet of the up! family of concept vehicles at the Los Angeles Motor Show.
Named space up! blue and taking its visual inspiration and drivetrain layout from the classic 1950s Samba Bus, the concept vehicle is powered by a pioneering high-temperature fuel cell linked to a series of 12 lithium-ion batteries. The innovative power sources are linked to a rear-mounted electric motor developing 61 PS and
88 lbs ft of torque. The only by-product of this highly efficient drivetrain is pure water.
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The Jaguar C-XF has been named ‘Concept Car of the Year’ by leading Japanese design magazine CAR STYLING. Established 30 years ago, CAR STYLING is read all over the world and is the only design magazine published in both Japanese and English.
This year is Volvo’s fifth occasion at the annual SEMA show in Las Vegas and represents the most ambitious, creative line-up yet. No less than five modified versions of Volvo models are on display; a beach-ready all-new Volvo XC70, a high performance version of the S80 T6, a striking C30 SportsCoupe, a powerful C70 convertible and a one-off fully custom hot rod.
The sleek and stylish Volvo XC60 concept, a crossover vehicle which combines the AWD versatility of a Volvo XC model with the sporty charisma of a sleek coupe, makes its first UK public appearance at the MPH Shows in London and Birmingham in November. It’ll give show visitors a glimpse of the future Volvo XC60, expected in UK showrooms by early 2009.
The Tokyo Motor Show today saw the debut of the space up! – the latest concept vehicle to join the Volkswagen up! small car family. 
Audi pays homage to Japan’s flair for miniaturisation this week with its new sub-compact metroproject quattro design study, which makes its debut on Press Day at the Tokyo Motor Show (October 24 – November 11, 2007). Condensing the premium quality, innovation and design progressiveness for which the Audi range is renowned into less than 4 metres of road space, the metroproject quattro could provide clues to the look and packaging of a future Audi sub-compact production car. Power for the Vorsprung durch Technik study is provided by a modified version of the 1.4-litre Turbo FSI petrol engine recently adopted by the A3, combined with a lithium-ion battery-powered electric motor mounted behind the rear seats which reduces fuel consumption and emissions by around 15 per cent. The petrol engine’s increased 150PS output, up from 125PS in the A3, is delivered at 5,500rpm, and its 40Nm higher torque output of 240Nm peaks from just 1,600rpm. The electric motor adds 41PS and an extra 200Nm of torque, and when engine and motor work in unison the metroproject quattro is able to accelerate from rest to 62mph in 7.8 seconds.
Shortly before the on-sale date of the new BMW 1 Series Coupé on 24 November, BMW designers have given an insight into what an out-and-out motorsport-focussed derivative might look like. The BMW Concept 1 Series tii will take centre stage at the Tokyo Motorshow and uses lightweight materials, optimised aerodynamics and a race-inspired interior to deliver an uncompromising focus on motorsport. 
Honda has confirmed plans to bring its most exciting ‘green’ cars into production. The FCX hydrogen fuel cell car and a lightweight, hybrid sportscar will both be built – with a production version of the FCX making its debut next month. 
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd, will present four show vehicles that incorporate new and exciting ideas for future models at the upcoming 2007 Tokyo Motor Show. The four concept cars include the “Pivo 2”, which presents a new connection between car and driver, with an “always enjoyable, everywhere convenient” state-of-mind; and “Round Box”, a youth-oriented compact convertible that provides occupants with a unique sensation of speed and exhilaration.The Nissan exhibit also showcases the company’s Research and Development (R&D) vision for the future, with a special focus on “Environment” and “Safety” advances. Displays feature Compact Lithium-ion Battery technology, the compact 3D motor, and the new Pop-up Engine Hood design, as well as a number of other advanced systems.
The Suzuki automobile stand will have a “Small Cars for a Big Future” theme reflecting the huge future possibilities that we envisage for compact cars. Each of our exhibits will embody the unique spirit and technological prowess that have made Suzuki the leading name in compact-car design and production. 