Category: Auto News

Auto news – automobile industry news. Articles about all the latest car models and concepts. Breaking news, uncovered secrets.

  • Eternity Artemis Prototype at Beijing

    Eterniti-Artemis-Prototype-thumbIt would seem that Lamborghini won’t be the only company at Beijing to showcase a 600 bhp monstrosity with high ground clearance. Meet London-base Eterniti Motors and their first car ever – The Artemis. They haven’t bothered about fitting in so to speak as they have their own category for it – Super-SUV: “Higher levels of luxury, performance and exclusivity” targeted at wealthy car buyers. We respect honesty.

    The Artemis prototype is still in its trial period but Eterniti speculate that it would be out before the ones of Lamborghini, Bentley or Maserati.

    Outside every panel is hand-built yet made of carbon-fiber. Well, there are some “crude” patches of chrome here and there but they can’t really ruin the whole thing, can they? Sized 315/25, low profile tires bare the weight of the body and the 23-inch alloy rims that come in several designs.

    The engineers at Eterniti have put some extra effort in making the back end of the cabin spacious, luxurious and comfortable. The seats recline, cool or heat themselves, hide a refrigerator and an iPad slot – very executive. The general feel of the whole cabin is self evident – leathers, quilted undercarpets and boot trim, lambswool rugs, veneers of natural wood, piano black and carbon-fiber patterns, state-of-the-art audio system and a choice of several sunroofs for some reason.

    Then there’s the real inside. At the center of the Eterniti, beats a 4.8-litre twin-turbo V8 heart that produces 600 bhp and 750Nm of torque. Tests have so far shown that the “Super-SUV” can do a 0 to 60 mph sprint in just 4.5 seconds. Performance and handling have been developed by a race-bred British engineering team led by Alastair Macqueen. He was responsible for the Jaguar XJ220 so you know they are not kidding.

    Eterniti have been kind enough to share a price tag as well – China will get a special deal but for the rest of the world, it’s £210,000. So this is where we start losing touch with reality. That sum of money for something that looks like a tricked out Cayenne?! Hmm…

    Eterniti Artemis Prototype
    Eterniti Artemis Prototype
    Eterniti Artemis Prototype
    Eterniti Artemis Prototype

    Source: Eterniti

  • Jaguar XJ Ultimate at the 2012 Beijing

    Jaguar has presented the top-of-range XJ Ultimate at the 2012 Beijing Auto Show, yesterday. The luxurious saloon comes with unique details both for the interior and the exterior. It represents the pinnacle of the luxurious, innovative XJ experience with heightened levels of opulence for rear-seat passengers.

    2012 Jaguar XJ Ultimate comes with two individually tailored rear seats, which are trimmed in semi-aniline premium natural leather with power adjustment and recline, lumbar support, massage function and climate controls. Furthermore, the comfort is boosted by a rear business table, machined from solid aluminium with piano black trim, powers into position at the touch of a button. That’s not all, the rear passengers also get a pair of bespoke champagne flutes in a dedicated storage area beneath the powered table and a champagne chiller between the rear seats cools the bottle to the perfect temperature and automatically presents it when the cabinet is opened. Each rear-seat passenger is provided with an iPad® and keyboard, housed and charged in dedicated leather-trimmed docks in the rear of the front seats.

    Other highlights for the interior include a full-length, leather-trimmed centre console features phosphor blue accent lighting and stowage areas to extend the car’s business usability, a 15-channel, 20-speaker surround sound system engineered specifically for the XJ by British audio specialists Meridian and exclusive interior finishes including Herringbone veneer, machined aluminium and bespoke LED lighting.

    The XJ Ultimate comes with new revised suspension optimizing the ride comfort.

    The exterior boasts Celestial Black paint, discreet external detailing and badging differentiating the Ultimate from other XJ variants, a set of unique 20” Maroa forged alloy wheels featuring both technical grey and highly polished finishes.

    The engine range includes the all-new 3.0-liter V6 supercharged petrol engine and the 5.0 liter V8 supercharged petrol. There will be also a diesel variant – 3.0 liter V6 turbocharged diesel. All engines are mated to the new 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox.

    2012 Jaguar XJ Ultimate
    2012 Jaguar XJ Ultimate

    Source: Jaguar

  • Lamborghini Urus at 2012 Beijing

    Lamborghini-Urus-Beijing-thumbWhat we see here, is evidence that the world has gone SUV-mad. Lamborghini have brought the heavy artillery to the 2012 Beijing Auto Show with the Urus SUV Concept. We say heavy, but actually, the company claims that the Urus will thrash the other fatties from the segment thanks to their ever-improving craftiness with carbon-fiber composites.

    So what’s at the core of this concept? Some might be surprised but this is not Lamborghini’s first venture into the SUV world. It’s their second. Back in 1986 the LM002 was launched which looked like a Hummer on steroids, had 450 bhp and a top speed of 210 km/h. Despite remaining in production until 1992, only 300 units were ever made. Not what you call a commercial success then.

    The name behind the new one is in part ironic. Urus (or aurochs) is an extinct species of cattle – a rather majestic and tall looking breed of bulls, ancestors of the modern Spanish Bull. Now, we understand that you can’t name something that looks like a genetically modified Lamborghini Aventador on hoofs after a standard bull but isn’t the fact that the aurochs have been “outdated” sort of a bad sign?

    Anyways, Lamborghini are still quiet about what’s under the hood. “Expect something around 600 bhp” is not something we can work with here. Low emission pioneering is also amidst the company’s daring claims, because it will be light they say. But how light can a 5 meter long and 2 meter wide bulk of brawn can be? It sends its power trough trough a permanent AWD system complete with traction control. (which, again, does not sound very light).

    Aerodynamics are said to play an important part as well. The suspension is widely adjustable. The front spoiler is also height adjustable so that it can provide a proper ground clearance or add some stability and efficiency on the flat tarmac. The outside features are less than a handful but for a purpose – a minimalist construction. No side view mirrors (cameras inside), no gun turrets and no excess weight. The only thing that sounds too much is the size of the wheels: 24 inches of matte aluminum glory and double spoke design.

    Inside the Lamborghini Urus, there is a seating for four (two too many for a Lamborghini to be honest). The carbon fiber diet there is just as relevant as it is for the outside. The center tunnel for example, is an open skeletal carbon fiber structure made from Forged Composite. It’s the backbone of the whole interior and it is only partially clad in leather-upholstered cushioning. The four bucket seats (Forged Composite as well) are also cushioned by a single body. Then, behind the steering wheel, one would find only paddle shifters. So Lamborghini has gone the Ferrari Italia way and placed the indicator storks/buttons somewhere irrelevant. And this is supposed to be an everyday vehicle?

    Lamborghini Ursus at Beijing 2012
    Lamborghini Ursus at Beijing 2012

    Source: Lamborghini

  • Audi A6 L E-Tron at the 2012 Beijing

    Audi is presenting its first luxury-class e-tron concept car – Audi A6 L e-tron at Auto China 2012 in Beijing. The manufacturer also presents two other brand new concept vehicles at the auto show, but they won’t be in focus now.

    The plug-in hybrid is based on the long-wheel-base version of Audi A6 saloon, which is the best-selling model on the Chinese market. It is typical for the European manufacturers to run LWB versions specially for the Chinese market like the BMW 3-Series F30 LWB. These models are widely appreciated and well sold in China, that’s why Audi decided to run their new hybrid in LWD version.

    However, the styling has been updated to differentiate it from the production model. The A6 L E-tron comes with new front grille with horizontal chrome bars giving it better front look and massive appearance. There is also a new rear diffuser and enormous 21” alloy wheels in special e-tron design.

    The A6 L e-tron concept is precisely tailored to the requirements of Chinese customers. Plug-in hybrids that can travel long distances electrically – thereby enabling zero emissions driving in local areas – are ideal for use in rapidly growing megacities. Beyond its drive system, the A6 L e-tron concept has all of the qualities that customers value in Audi cars: prestige, comfort and sporty performance.

    The powertrain features a 2.0 liter TFSI with 211HP (155 kW) coupled with an electric motor with 95HP  (70kW). The electric motor is powered by a special liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery, which alloys the A6 L to travel up to 80km in all-electric mode if travelling at a constant speed of 60 km/h.

    The interior boasts intuitive controls. The powermeter replaces the tachometer; its pointer indicates total drive system power on a scale of zero to 100%. Colored segments indicate the current operating state of the A6 L e-tron concept; an auxiliary instrument visualizes the charge state of the lithium-ion battery.

    The Audi A6 L e-tron concept offers a lot of space at all seating positions. It integrates all of the model line’s luxury-class features. The seats offer ventilation and massage functions, the Bose surround system delivers good sound, and the deluxe automatic air conditioning system with air ionizer ensures a pleasant climate in the car. Ambient lighting adds subtle highlights to the interior illumination.

    Audi A6 L E-Tron
    Audi A6 L E-Tron

    Source: Audi

  • Toyota reveals three new concepts in Beijing

    Toyota-Dear-Qin-THUMBThree new concept vehicles have just been unveiled by Toyota on their stage at the 12th Beijing International Automotive Exhibition.

    The first one comes in two variant- a compact sedan and hatchback, which carries proudly the name Toyota Dear Qin. This is a global-strategic vehicle which includes attractive design and offers exceptional style.

    In particular, the word Qin means “dear” or “intimate”. In the name lies the aim of the brand to make this model cherished by many.

    The Dear Qin concept versions have different front end. Although slightly different in appearance, they both share the same name. Maybe in the future we can expect development on the direction of the two design strategies, however under different name.

    Toyota Dear Qin Concept
    Toyota Dear Qin Concept
    Toyota Dear Qin Concept
    Toyota Dear Qin Concept

    The red version is standard four-door sedan which has a body design, very typical and familiar in China.

    More importantly, both Dear Qin is said to be propelled by gasoline-electric hybrid engines.

    The third world debut makes the second concept of Toyota, called Yundong Shuangqing. This is a China-only concept hybrid.

    The model suggests “movement upon clouds” and its goal is to deliver innovation, dynamism and eco-friendliness to all customers of the brand.

    In addition Shuangqing offers “dual support” and signifies the two power sources of the petrol-electric hybrid system.

    Toyota Yundong Shuangqing Concept
    Toyota Yundong Shuangqing Concept

    Source: Toyota

  • 2013 Subaru Legacy unveiled at 2012 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition

    2013-Subaru-Legacy-THUMB2013 Subaru Legacy has just been unveiled at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition. What lies beyond this new model is the philosophy of “All performance enhancement”. This refers to improvement made regarding the design, fuel economy, drivability and safety.

    In addition to this Subaru Legacy comes with more extensive modifications, which are not only limited in to exterior and interior changes.

    The new Subaru model delivers more excitement in driving and more comfort for the passengers. In addition it is equipped with the new generation Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine, thanks to which the fuel economy is improved.

    The exterior design of the vehicle conveys stability and confidant stance. This is probably due to the headlamps with the motif common with other Subaru vehicles and a hexagon grille.

    Other modifications were made on the vehicle’s height which was raised by 60 mm. In addition to this the front bumper, side spoiler and rear bumper were newly designed.

    All these original modifications in the exterior design of the legacy result in bolder look and powerful presence.

    The front and rear fender design now has massive wheel arches. For this reason the vehicle’s width was extended by 40mm.

    2013 Subaru Legacy sits on the new 18 inch-wheels, while the wheel arch designs embodies power running through the symmetrical All-Wheel drive. The high-quality of the car is further highlighted by the chrome parts which can be found on the side sill spoiler and rear bumper.

    2013 Subaru Legacy
    2013 Subaru Legacy

    Furthermore, the interior of the car now expresses luxury and comfort. The color of the center panel, front console and steering switch panel is now black-metal-like color. In addition, electronic parking brake and “SI-DRIVE” switches were relocated for better usability.

    The new Legacy is also environmentally “conscious”: the fuel efficiency it provides is now outstanding. This is due to the new generation Boxer engine, which combines the light and compact second-generation Lineartronic (CVT).

    Moreover, suspensions were also updated in order to refine the driving experience.

    In terms of safety features, the vehicle includes the additional bumper beam reinforcement and the knee airbag for a driver. There is also added the VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control) with new control system.

    Source: Subaru

  • 2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase with a Beijing World Debut

    2012-Rolls-Royce-Phantom-Extended-Wheelbase-THUMB2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase made a global debut at Auto China. The vehicle completes the Phantom Series II family of the brand.

    Phantom Series II is an evolution of the Rolls-Royce Phantom model which first appeared back in 2003. What is particularly specific about the extended wheelbase is that it features significant improvements in design, drive-train and technology.

    Of course, it carries a striking new front-end design, which is completed with re-styled bumpers and rectangular light apertures. In addition, there are also included fully-LED headlamps as standard. They deliver characteristic whiter light, and encompass technologies that automatically change the shape and direction of light beams according to road orientation and in response to different driving conditions.

    Furthermore, there are also featured driver assistance technologies such as a modern user interface with re-designed multi-media controller, controls a new satellite navigation system with functions that include 3D maps with landscape topography, guided tours and composite route planning.

    All of the necessary information is displayed on 8.8 inch control centre display. There are also displayed the images provided from the front, rear and top-view camera systems, which in turn help in better manoeuvring.

    2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase
    2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase

    What is more 2012 Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase includes a brand new eight-speed automatic gearbox and rear differential. They improve the driving dynamics and complement perfectly the V12 direct injection engine.

    In fact, this results in improved fuel consumption and less CO2 emissions as well.

    Another interesting remark here is that at least five layers of paint and clear lacquer coating are applied to each Phantom model. The number of the layers becomes seven if the car is two-tone.

    Any chosen paint color can be specified by the customer. Furthermore, single or double coach-lines can also be added, where each five metre line takes three hours to apply (by hand) using only the finest squirrel and ox hair brushes.

    Moreover, there are also wooden features can be seen in the interior. It depends on the specifications whether there how many pieces of wood are being utilized for the construction.

    In particular, up to 43 wooden parts can be used. Each of which is constructed from up to 28 layers of wood. In order to improve the strength and to prevent splintering in an impact, these are interspersed with thin sheets of aluminium.

    The leather in the interior is drum pigmented. This allows the leather to keep its soft and supple feel, giving a rich, uniform colour while maintaining the natural feel, softness and comfort.

    Source: Rolls-Royce

  • 2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost Six Senses Concept delivers new level of sensory indulgence

    2012-Rolls-Royce-Ghost-Six-Senses-Concept-THUMB2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost Six Senses Concept is an outstanding luxury model which the richness of experience that comes as standard with any Rolls-Royce vehicle.

    When one approaches this exceptional Rolls-Royce their senses are immediately provoked. The delight continues through the experience of the lavish use of soft, sumptuous leathers, finest veneer detailing and special bespoke enhancements.

    In fact, the stunning interior was hand-made and maybe it embodies part of every craftsperson involved in the process of creation.

    This luxury concept vehicle ignites the sight with its beautiful and elegant appearance. Every Rolls-Royce Ghost model is a sign of exceptional taste. In addition, what pleases the eye is pearlescent Carrara White finish complements new forged alloy wheels.

    Another visually enriching experience comes through the interior which includes precision and detailing. The deep lustre of the Walnut Burr veneer complete with diagonally-oriented, brown oak cross-banding, are made to hint at the extraordinary power at the driver’s disposal.

    Next, the senses of the ears are provoked by the sound most advanced audio systems included in the Ghost model. In details, Ghost Six Senses audio system fills the spacious rear cabin thanks to its upgraded amplifier and the inclusion of ‘exciter’ speakers housed in the leather headlining that help raise the centre of sound closer to a passenger’s ear.

    Furthermore, the finest interior materials create scents that are unique to Rolls-Royce. Take for instance the natural soft grain leather in enveloping, hand-crafted seats, as well as in the car’s leather headlining, with added hints of the woody spice in the walnut veneer.

    2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost Six Senses Concept
    2012 Rolls-Royce Ghost Six Senses Concept

    And in addition to all this the Rolls-Royce comes to offer ultimate experience in terms of taste, because in it is featured a coolbox where any kind of refreshing drinks can be stored.

    The tactile sense is provoked through the versatility of materials included in the design of the concept. They range from cool chrome and sumptuous leather to the finest veneers. In fact, Ghost Six Senses includes natural grain leather for the first time.

    On the other hand the deep pile lambswool rugs encourage occupants to submerge feet, while opening the boot effortlessly with remote opener, reveals a further lambswool lining to cosset luxury luggage.

    Source: Rolls-Royce

  • 2013 Ford EcoSport SUV shows confidant stance in China

    2013-Ford-EcoSport-Titanium-THUMB2013 Ford EcoSport SUV achieved great furore at 2012 Auto China in Beijing. The car offers confidence and stance and great agility and fuel efficiency. In other words, this For SUV is the perfect vehicle for the city. The new EcoSport joins Ford’s family of small global vehicles.

    In addition to this EcoSport is full of smart technologies and features.

    The brand has included its newest and most advanced engine the 1.0-litre EcoBoost™, thank to which the fuel efficiency is exceptional. It also includes Ford SYNC driver connect system with voice control. Additional innovative features are also included in a spacious and comfortable interior with new levels of craftsmanship.

    The top-of-the-line model is EcoSport Titanium, which carries the distinctive paint of Mars Red. This version comes with 16-inch aluminium alloy wheels and a chrome grille.

    2013 Ford EcoSport Titanium
    2013 Ford EcoSport Titanium

    The interior of the EcoSport delivers style and innovation, craftsmanship and quality. More importantly, the cabin is spacious enough for five people and their gear. This is possible because of the initial aim of the design, which is to deliver great of comfort and quiet operation for customers.

    Some of the innovative technologies featured in the model are: Ford SYNC with voice control, Smart Keyless Entry, Ford Power Start, and a cooled bin in the glovebox.

    2013 EcoSport will also offer advanced safety items. For instance: dual front airbags and side curtain airbags, Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Program.

    Of course, being a true ford, the SUV comes with an array of driver-assist features among which are the Hill Launch Assist, rear parking sensors, electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) for outstanding steering response and improved fuel efficiency.

    For has put highlight on fuel economy, drivability and performance. The aim set by Ford in the EcoSport’s development was to become the segment leader in fuel-efficiency. This was made possible thank to the all-new 1.0-litre, three-cylinder EcoBoost™ engine as well as the new 1.5L Ti-VCT petrol engine.

    Additionally, EcoSport’s fuel economy is further enhanced by the availability of the innovative six-speed PowerShift dual-clutch automatic transmission. It combines the efficiency and driving dynamics of a manual gearbox with the convenience of a conventional automatic transmission.

    Efficiency is achieved also through every aspect of the vehicle’s design. In fact, the SUV’s body was specially created in such way that it includes the use of high-strength steel and new designs to optimize weight and fuel efficiency.

    2013 Ford EcoSport Interior
    2013 Ford EcoSport Interior

    Source: Ford

  • Jeep Wrangler “Dragon” Design Concept Revealed

    Jeep-Wrangler-Dragon-Concept-thumbSince the 2012 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition is already in motion, we better start off with something symbolic. That’s where the Jeep Wrangler “Dragon” design concept comes in. It’s based on the standard, Chinese spec Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon, finished in black and garnished with bronze/gold motives which are strongly associated with the Chinese dragon.

    The gold/bronze details play a center role in the whole design thing (front grille slats, headlamp surrounds, the engine cover etc) but by know, you must have noticed the dragon decal that starts on the hood and runs down the driver’s side of the cabin. “Supplementary” dragons can also be found on the underside of the hood where a carbon-fiber insulator is mounted. Then there’s the gloss-black spare tire cover which also glances you with a pair of dragon eyes. As round up features for the outside, the Jeep boasts a Mopar fuel-filler cap and an aftermarket LED lighting package that includes the headlamps, fog lamps, turn signals and taillights.

    This particular Wrangler sits on 18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels which are also black and have the same bronze/gold outer edge finish. They roll around humongous 35-inch off-road tires which are there to defend the dragon’s reputation – control over water, rain and winds in their severest form.

    Inside, the seats are all black leather with gold/bronze piping and stitching. A laser etched dragon pattern adorns the face of the headrests. Leather, resembling the scales of a dragon, covers the outside edges of the seats and front center arm rest. The instrument panel bezels are in piano black while the steering wheel’s spokes have a bronze/gold accent. That is also true for the instrument cluster, passenger-side door dashboard grab handle and door handles. Finishing the interior modifications are the dragon tags on the front and rear floor mats.

    At the heart of the dragon sits a Chrysler 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. That means 284 bhp and 347 Nm of mythical fury. Although down on the displacement (compared to the previous 3.8-liter engine), this one has over 40 percent more horsepower and 10 percent more torque. Also, mated to an automatic transmission normally found in the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Wrangler is more economical as well.

    Jeep Wrangler "Dragon" Design Concept
    Jeep Wrangler "Dragon" Design Concept

    Source: Jeep

  • Seat Ibiza Cupra Concept

    Seat-Ibiza-Cupra-Concept-thumbIt still is a concept, but production is foreseeable. It’s the Seat Ibiza Cupra ready to please the way only a hothatch can. Powerful, nimble and clever, this little imp has all the right acronyms – TSI, DSG and now XDS – an electronic differential lock.

    A 1.4 TSI super/turbocharged engine under the hood packs a punch of around 180 hp and 250 Nm. With a set of paddle shifters behind the steering wheel, one can make good use of that power which is delivered to the road by a seven-speed DSG transmission.

    The Ibiza Cupra also has the looks to match the power. Angry looks that is. Seat have focused on the car’s face by adding a broad grille, sophisticated and pointy headlights and vast air intakes. The only thing that, to us, ruins the whole situation are those LED daytime running lights which surround the headlights, imprisoning them with redundancy. From the side we have a three-door profile – sharp and muscular with nice C-pillars. 17-inch wheels complement the dynamics while black exterior mirrors offer an aesthetic contrast to the mad yellow paint job of the body.

    Jumping inside, we find a minimalist’s idea of paradise – a steering wheel with the shifters, four air-vents, a radio and that’s about it. Well, there’s more than that but take the entertainment system for an example – a 5-inch screen can be unplugged and taken home as a part of Seat’s Portable System – that means that in your pocket, you can have a navigation system, a hands-free phone system with voice control and an on-board computer.

    Currently, this little critter (that probably has rabies) is on a stand at the 2012 Beijing International Automotive show. One of the many that will most definitely leave an impression on you or atleast a smile.

    Seat Ibiza Cupra Concept
    Seat Ibiza Cupra Concept

    Source: Seat

  • 2012 Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept makes debut in Beijing

    Volkswagen-E-Bugster-concept-THUMB2012 Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept is the successor of the emblematic Beetle and it will be exhibited for the first time in Asia during Auto China in Beijing. There it will show how sportiness can also be transferred to a Beetle with pure electric drive.

    The Concept vehicle is a two-seat Beetle speedster, 85 kW in power, and able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.8 seconds. The surprise here is that it is able to produce zero emissions.

    To go further into details, the central electric module of this Volkswagen has an innovative design. It weighs just 80 kg. The electric motor produces energy which is stored in a lithium-ion battery whose modules are housed in a space-saving location behind the front seats.

    The battery has an energy capacity of 28.3 kWh. In kilometers this means that the vehicle is able to cover the range of at least 180 km in the urban world.

    In addition, Volkswagen has included its special quick charging function, thank to which the battery can be ‘refuelled’ within 35 minutes at suitable charging stations. Of course, this battery can be charged at the convenience of the home environment through a conventional electric outlet.

    The interface for the charge cable is located behind the normal ‘fuel door’ near the C-pillar. Due to the new Combined Charging System it is possible now for the E-Bugster to be ‘filled up’ flexibly via one interface using any available charging modalities, such as single-phase charging with AC current or ultra-fast DC charging at charging stations (quick charge).

    Exactly how much energy the driver is requesting with the ‘electric pedal’ can be observed in a power display. In addition, there are also featured instruments which include a driving range indicator and a display showing the current charge state of the battery.

    Furthermore, there is also an instrument in the new Bugster, which shows the intensity of battery regeneration. What this means in short is that the regeneration actually is the recovery of braking energy. When the driver’s foot leaves the accelerator pedal and/or brakes, kinetic energy is transformed into electricity, which in turn is collected in the battery.

    This serves as a means to increase the driving range of the E-Bugster.

    2012 Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept
    2012 Volkswagen E-Bugster Concept

    Furthermore, the 2012 Volkswagen E-Bugster is in fact a sports car. This is due to its height of less than 1,400 mm, which is about 90 mm less than that of the hard top Beetle. In details, the E-Bugster’s width (1,838 mm) grew by 30 mm, while its length (4,278) remained the same as that of the production car.

    Another highlight here is that the E-Bugster has unique dynamic styling, due to a lot of new styling elements included in the model.

    Looked from the front, it is the swept-back and wide windscreen that catches the eye. The E-Bugster’s glass extends to a point above the A-pillars.

    In addition it includes LED headlights, highly customized, daytime running lights to the left and right of the central air intake as bands of LED lights in a C-shape. All these styling elements can be seen again in a transformed form as reflectors in the rear bumper.

    The rear windscreen of the E-Bugster is extremely wide as well.

    On the other hand a side view of the Bugster gives the observer the image of swept-back windows and a low roof. In addition, the designers lengthened the chrome strip of the lower window border towards the rear and it now runs once around the car, from A-pillar to A-pillar.

    Moreover, this electrified Volkswagen runs on 20-inch ‘Twister’ wheels, which are equipped with 235/35 R 20 tyres.

    What is left is of course the interior, which is spectacular. First of all it includes a combination of high-tech equipment. Secondly the dynamic performance reflected through the sport seats and a continuous centre tunnel in body colour.

    The door handles and the belt guides are made of aluminium, and in addition to this the lightweight construction styling of the steering wheel also creates a direct connection between the exterior and interior.

    Through the Start button, the driver not only activates the drive system but also puts a light show into motion. What happens is basically this: first, the interior is bathed in a white light, which eventually is substituted with blue light.

    Next, it begins as a light pulse in the instrument cluster, from which the light emanates as a thin line of light. The latter is just one millimetre wide and courses into the door window sills and around the air nozzles.

    Source: Volkswagen