Friday, April 8, 2011

BMW 6 Series

Following on from the recently launched cabriolet variant, BMW has revealed the all-new, technologically advanced 2+2 seat 6 Series coupe.

Now in its third generation, the 6 Series features a new interpretation of the traditional BMW coupe proportions: low and wide with a long hood and a long wheelbase. Measuring in at 4894mm long and 1894mm wide, the new car is 75mm longer and 39mm wider than its predecessor, but sits 5mm lower to the ground (at 1369mm tall). BMW claims the exterior surfacing was inspired by flowing waves.

As with its predecessor, the interior's asymmetrical layout continues to place an emphasis on the driver. The driver-oriented center stack and console are complemented by taut waistline surfaces, which are carried forward into the IP. Technological advancements include black-panel technology, a freestanding Control Display and a high resolution 10.2-inch flatscreen display in hi-spec models.

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

BAC Mono

Another name to emerge amidst the numerous English niche manufacturers, are Briggs Automotive. Taking the fight to cars like the Aerial Atom and Caparo T1, the BAC Mono is a lightweight carbon fiber tubbed single seater, proving that once again less is more in terms of performance.

Boasting a kerb weight of just 540kg, the single seat ‘ultra high performance, road legal sports vehicle' was produced using race-bred technology in order to deliver a purist driving experience. Built with the paradigm of design and engineering excellence in mind, the Mono utilizes extensive bespoke carbon fiber and CNC machined billet aluminum parts in its construction.

With a design that places function over form, parallels can be drawn to its contemporaries, but the single seat layout offers a more focused road racer experience than any other niche vehicle currently available.

Monday, April 4, 2011

Chevrolet Colorado

General Motors' Chevrolet brand is previewing the next generation midsized Colorado pickup truck in concept form at the Bangkok International Auto Show. The venue was chosen to debut the truck due to the Thai market's prevalence – it is the world's largest market for midsize pickups.

Despite being a show vehicle, the basic proportions and form are said to convey the vision for the next-generation Colorado, whiuch is said to build on Chevrolet's 'strong truck DNA and award-winning heritage.' With a design calling on the inherent strength of Chevy trucks, it is unsurprising to see the exterior boast a broad shouldered and squat demeanor.

The show truck features an extended-cab body atop a high-riding AWD chassis and sits on 20-inch wheels and off-road tires. Inside, the Colorado focuses on delivering a premium feel to occupants, with increased attention to detail and a feeling of improved quality.

Saturday, April 2, 2011

Kia Naimo

As the Seoul Motor Show starts today, Thursday 31st March, Kia is debuting the Naimo all-electric concept.

The concept takes its name from the Korean word ‘Ne-mo' meaning square shape - something that lends itself to the Naimo's aesthetic. The crossover utility vehicle, or CUV, was conceived by Kia's international design team in Seoul and is characterized by its ‘simple lines and solid, muscular stance.'

The simple overall design sports such interjecting details as the wrap-around windscreen and asymmetric sunroof. This mixture of simple and complex is a reference to the common traits of many traditional Korean arts and crafts.

The Naimo's interior was designed to evoke a strong sense of tranquility and features hand-crafted materials throughout such as Korean oak on the floor and door cards, with "Han-ji" paper being used for the head lining. Juxtaposing these traditional elements are modern features such as the transparent organic led display instrument panel.

The concept car has no B-pillars and features ‘suicide' style rear doors to maximize access to the cabin, and a three-way split opening boot-lid, allows for increased access to the load bay for varying luggage sizes.