Rinspeed – Automobiles Review

Rinspeed Is To Unveil Ʃtos Concept at Geneva Motor Show

2016 Rinspeed Σtos Concept Incredible technologies and one-of-a-kind craftsmanship are the main features that contribute to the distinctive appearance of “Ʃtos” Concept car. One more time the Swiss manufacturer went for the approach of “self-driving car”, but now the accent is not on the “self-drive” itself, but rather on the next-gen gadgets and systems which are expected to reshape the face of vehicles with own character.

Exterior styling

The elegant, yet aggressive Ʃtos is not only a highly versatile car, but also a furious racer. And how does it express it? With the demonstration of deep black 20-inch Borbet GTX aluminum rims, widened body and adding numerous lightweight aluminum and glass materials that not only improve the performance capabilities, but also enhance the aggressive character of the vehicle. And along with the neatly designed trim strips, the vehicle also demonstrates some titanium elements.

Some of the most notable exterior features are of course the beautiful LED headlights, placed just above the massive jaw. The sides are somehow simple-looking, but let this fact not disappoint you: the engineer team knows exactly how to maintain both beauty and power at the same time. The rear also looks massive and it looks like designers went for that “beauty through simplicity” approach that happened to be the right one. Sweet.

Interior styling

2016 Rinspeed Σtos Concept

First of all, we should mention that the cabin benefits from the innovative Harman Connected Car technologies that offer not only personal assistant features, but also infotainment, connectivity and safety features. Something more: with every mile Ʃtos tells its recommendations, needs and advices, when it comes to performance and safe drive. Sweet, right?

In terms of comfort, the interior offers comfortable seats, covered in exclusive leather and synthetic materials, relaxing atmosphere and useful and user-friendly technologies. Furthermore, polymer specialist Rehau created special lightweight dashboard system and also makes clever usage of the luggage shelf with detachable umbrella holder.

Additional equipment

2016 Rinspeed Σtos Concept

In terms of safety, Ʃtos comes with intelligent connectivity technologies, including automatic payment for parking, wireless cell phone charging, smart access solutions and keyless remotes for unlocking, starting and customizing.

Further features, drivetrain system details and capabilities will be soon announced, so stick with us for further information!

Rinspeed Ʃtos will make its european debut at the Geneva Motor Show at Rinspeed booth 6240.

Source: Rinspeed

February 16, 2016

Rinspeed Σtos Concept Revealed. Debuts at CES and Geneva

Rinspeed Σtos Concept Front View Rinspeed Σtos Concept that has been teased in October this year has been just released with abundant gallery and information about it. I’m going to tell you the most interesting part and let you dive into the see of images in our gallery below. The hybrid sports car will be premiered in Las Vegas at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), far far away from the Switzerland, manufacturer’s home. So let’s see the details here.

The Hyper High-Tech Interior

Σtos is a self-driving with a lot of technical highlights, especially throughout the interior. Take for instance the folding and retracting steering wheel from ZF TRW, which disappears in the dashboard in a few seconds. And as you can see from the pictures, this creates lots of space in front letting the driver enjoy in a comfort the old-fashioned way… a book. Or they can work in a relaxed atmosphere. In addition, the position of the two curved 21.5-inch Ultra HD widescreen monitors is adjustable to provide an even better view of what’s on display.

Rinspeed Σtos Concept: Man Reading Inside

The infotainment experience is secured by the innovative Harman Connected Car technologies. They come in help in terms of destinations, route selection, tourist attractions, refueling, parking, making phone calls, music, videos or personal preferences. Basically, “Σtos” gets to know the appointments, wishes and needs of the occupants. Even more, the concept responds promptly to voice commands, gestures, touch input, controller or the push of a button.

The inviting interior, is built with the help of leather and synthetic substrates, which form an abundance of patterns, functions and surfaces. The relaxed feel-good atmosphere is also complemented by the embroidered on the seats skyline of San Francisco. Polymer specialists at Rehau have developed the innovative lightweight-construction dashboard and the clever bracket for the luggage shelf with detachable umbrella holder.

The Self-Driving Experience

Rinspeed Σtos Concept Interior

Thanks to a total of eight HD exterior cameras, the car has an expanded field of vision that has no blind spots. The vehicle navigation also displays realistic 3D images of buildings, trees, bus stops, subway stations, etc. The information is of course linked to the cell phone, thus resulting free phone or video calls without interruption. This technology also allows smooth media streaming as well as efficient and targeted vehicle updates.

Everything is also linked to the traffic infrastructure such as traffic lights or traffic management systems and to other cars. In addition, the ‘E-Horizon’ delivers innovative safety and convenience features.

One of the most exclusive and “first” features here is the DJI drone, which has a landing platform in the rear. However, an armada of 12,000 individually controlled LEDs can transform this platform into an electronic message board. Speaking of the drone, it can deliver some very cool and contemporary services like making a “selfie” of the ride in the Σtos.

The Concept Car

Rinspeed Σtos Concept Rear View with Drone

Being a technological marvel, this car is based on the BMW i8. It is stylish, fast and furious, and it also rides on deep black and shiny 20-inch Borbet GTX aluminum rims. The glass roof and the “drone pad” in the rear were made from especially strong, lightweight and thin Gorilla glass. In addition, the aluminum front structure and the carbon fiber passenger cell also contribute for the lightweight design.

Rinspeed Σtos Concept will make its official debut on January 5^th, at the CES. It will be part of the exclusive HARMAN event in the Muse Hall of the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas. The European premiere of the car is scheduled for the Geneva Motor Show, March 1.

Source: Rinspeed

December 16, 2015

Rinspeed Ʃtos Concept Demonstrates Foldable Steering Wheel And A Drone

Rinspeed Etos It is the first time that Frank M. Rinderknecht, boss of the Swiss Rinspeed celebrates a global premiere outside his native Alpine country and presents the special sporty hybrid „Ʃtos“ at the CES 2016 in Las Vegas.

This time the Swiss team went for the “driverless cars” approach that becomes more and more popular both for customers, passengers and manufacturers. And now the special concept car will include an intuitive and adaptive autopilot system that will also has the ability to learn. Which, in fact, will refresh that oldie, but goldie topic “how much does the machine need man?” Philosophy and technology. Cool.

The interior is indeed the most interesting part of the Concept. When the autonomous mode is engaged, the steering wheel folds up and retracts into the dashboard. Also, the two curved widescreens move together, so passengers can enjoy a better view. Yep, future is here. But this is not all. In order to provide passengers with unique infotainment experience, „Ʃtos“ uses the latest Harman Connected Car technologies. It is like a personal assistant and operates in a manner that most users will find attractive, responsive and intuitive.

Rinspeed Etos

And as a modern and innovative machine, the „Ʃtos“ will demonstrate and numerous new gadgets. For example, the fitted drone that even has its own landing pad on the rear of the vehicle. It can be used to fetch a bouquet of flowers, or it can just take a video of the pleasant ride you are taking right now. How cool is that?

The „Ʃtos“ is the twenty-second concept vehicle designed at the Swiss “innovation lab”. And presumably it won’t be the last. We all know that the crew has countless more ideas for the future.

Source: Rinspeed

October 12, 2015

Rinspeed Budii Learns and Gets Better Over Time. To be Shown at 2015 Geneva Motor Show

Rinspeed has announced that it is preparing a concept vehicle called “Budii”. It will be premiered at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show and will aim to bring about redefined relationship between man and machine. The Swiss automotive visionary Frank M. Rinderknecht is concerned, when he looks at the accident statistics. Therefore in his opinion the autonomous driving will offer the opportunity to substantially minimize some of the drawbacks of private transport. This will help for the reduction of the global traffic accidents.

Autonomous technology has its drawbacks, although it is less prone to making mistakes. And this is why the owner of the company thinks that there should be a healthy releationship between vehicle and man. In terms of hardware and soft-ware, cars could do simply anything.

In fact, he envisions that they will “do just what we do” and keep learning each day. As a consequence, they will get better and better over time and master the challenges of contemporary.

Of course, the Swiss company is already building such machine. It will show it at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show. The name of the concept is “Budii” and as far as we know it will be electrically powered.

It will be attractive on the outside and include autopilot which will quickly adapt to the habits and preferences of the person inside. In addition, “Budii” will feature a host of innovations and will be capable of taking data from its environment and the “experiences” of other vehicles along its route into account.

The steering wheel of the vehicle is supported by sensitive robot arm. It enables both the driver and the front passenger to steer. What is more, if nobody feels like steering, it is simply parked in center position. Rinspeed’s “Budii” is the twenty-first proprietary concept vehicle of the Swiss “Think Tank” and “Innovation Lab”.

2015 Geneva Motor Show will take place from 5th to 15th of March.

Source: Rinspeed

December 9, 2014

Rinspeed microMAX Concept To Be Unveiled In Geneva [VIDEO]

At the end of the last year it was announced that Rinspeed microMAX Concept will make its first official world reveal at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. This comprehensive mobility concept is developed by the joint efforts of Rinspeed and Harman.

As a matter of fact they call the microMAX – the networked swarm car. With this concept Frank M. Rinderknecht, the boss of Rinspeed, transfers the idea of swarm intelligence to urban traffic and sets out to do nothing less than bring it to higher level.

The ingenious commuter vehicle combines personal and public transportation. Here Harman supplied it with “urbanSWARM” community concept based on the Harman Cloud platform, which involves company’s individual technical features that are already available commercially today with a comprehensive Cloud-based mobility concept.

To be more precise, this allows effortless access to navigation functions in real time. Based on the information from all vehicles connected to the swarm, the system can modify the routes dynamically to account for current traffic.

More importantly, the microMAX owners are part of modern mobility community that allows all vehicles to be utilized with maximum flexibility. A special app custom-developed by Harman for this purpose gives all road users who are looking for a transport option and are part of the selected community access to the new mobility concept.

How it works: potential riders only need to enter their destination, and then the “urbanSWARM” community steps in by using Cloud technology to access the collective information and experience of the entire swarm of vehicles to do the rest. Because the system has information about routes, destinations, traveling speeds and occupancy of all vehicles in the swarm, it calculates potential ride opportunities in real time.

The concept has a length of 3.7 meters, but offers plenty of space for the driver, three passengers and an unfolded stroller or shopping cart. Its height is of 2.2 meters and permits the installation of comfortable and space-saving upright seats equipped with a custom-developed safety belt system from TRW, a top vendor in the vehicle safety sector.

Moreover, the modern interior was made by the specialist Hornschuch and the special textiles were delivered by Strähle&Hess. In the cabin, all occupants enjoy such amenities as a coffee maker, refrigerator for refreshments and unlimited connectivity for entertainment purposes or they can even work while on the move.

Something that impressed me a lot is that the spacious interior has an airy and light feeling. You can receive the same impression by the video below which shows all of the assets of this concept vehicle. The clearly arranged VDO instrument panel dominates the area in front of the driver. It includes a central control unit which has been custom-programmed by software service provider Noser.

Furthermore, the command center for the “urbanSWARM” community platform is the 19-inch HD touchscreen from Harman, which includes a multi-dimensional HMI (Human Machine Interface) and offers expanded display functions.

Of course, microMAX is an all-electric vehicle powered by a forklift drive system from world market leader Linde Material Handling. The system is recharged at intelligent charging stations.

Behind the unusual design of the microMAX stays an aim for a change in a long-term attitudes to short-distance transport by cleverly bringing together private and public use in individual travel. The idea is to encourage potential passengers to join the driver for the ride. This would slash carbon dioxide emissions and travel costs at a stroke while radically reducing traffic congestion. A choice of models and extras make the microMAX incredibly adaptable, and it can be fitted out

We are to see the new microMAX Concept debuting on 7th of March in Geneva. Until then, a great impression of what this vehicle is like leaves the video below. Enjoy!

httpv://youtu.be/pR8FopEu5vQ

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Rinspeed

February 19, 2013

Rinspeed microMAX to debut at 2013 Geneva Motor Show

Rinspeed microMAX is a concept vehicle which intends to revolutionize urban traffic. This innovative urban transportation car is created by Frank M. Rinderknecht with the aim to revolutionize short-distance transport.

First of all, microMAX has unique upright seats, which are perfect for short-distance transfers. In fact, this concept defines an entirely new class of vehicles. Despite its length of 3.6 meters, this Rinspeed vehicle offers plenty of space for the driver, three passengers and a stroller or shopping cart. In addition, it also provides the desired privacy.

The vehicle height is of 2.2 meters. This allows the installation of comfortable and space-saving upright seats equipped with safety belts. Moreover, this allows an outstanding sense of spaciousness with homey lounge character.

What is even more, a coffee maker, a refrigerator for the passengers’ happy-hour drinks and unlimited connectivity for entertainment purposes or for working while on the move are also included. microMAX also allows passengers to get in and ride because it is extremely convenient and simple. And every passenger decreases CO2 emissions and costs.

Of course, being environmentally conscious, the microMAX is an all-electric vehicle. Various equipment modules, for example for craftsmen or delivery services, make the space saver extremely versatile.

And to sum up: this is another creative idea which we look forward to seeing in the near future.

Source: Rinspeed

December 10, 2012

2012 Geneva Motor Show: Rinspeed Dock+Go Mobility System

What is “Dock+GO”? Basically it is the innovative mind of the Rinspeed designers coming into manifestation. In fact, it is backpacks on wheels for electric vehicles. This concept vehicle was is a main attraction at 2012 Geneva Motor Show. It is specifically this third on-demand axle that is the crucial point of the innovative modular mobility system the Rinspeed has developed. The motto of the concept is simple: “Take 3!” and it is all about taking three axels instead of two. However this modification is based on the thinking “but only if you need them”! Moreover these single-axle “packs” can be used in different ways depending on what the driver has to do during the day. In addition they also have an insightful resolution for the so commonly met operating range problem of electric vehicles. The highlight is that neither unneeded space nor superfluous weight is carried along if it is not necessary. What is so special about this concept is that any electrified city speedster could serve as the basis for “Dock+Go”: for example – a two seated smart. In Geneva Rinspeed showcased a rolling “sound pack” equipped with the latest high-end sound solutions in order to guarantee a first class acoustical experience.

In addition, the vehicle includes a unique “energy pack,” fitted with a range extender or additional batteries, powered by a fuel cell or a combustion engine. They provide the crucial extra kilometers to reach more distant destinations. In details, the docked third axle drives the rotating second axle and in doing so also recharges the on-board batteries of the city speedster. In addition, when the pack with auxiliary batteries is docked and the vehicle is not utilized, the pack will even provide electricity to the owner’s private residence or serve as a buffer for the public energy grid.

And how about the exterior of this amazing and mindful project? What catches the eye immediately is the silver paint with a finish that resembles sparkling ice crystals. In addition, the car rides on Goodyear low-rolling-resistance tires in size 205/40-17 mounted on 7.5-inch AEZ rims, whose decorative silver covers are attached to red fasteners with rubber bands. On the other hand the interior is as superb as the exterior. It is all in red and black premium upholstery, which in addition includes strong natural thermoregulation, good insulation and a high capacity for absorbing moisture. Furthermore, the transparent roof and its distinctive grass inlays – as well as a number of other interior materials contribute to the comfort f the vehicle. The view ahead is dominated by a 12.1-inch monitor. It belongs to the multimedia equipment and is part of the intelligent infotainment system developed from Harman. Of course, the platform features the latest integration technologies. The steering wheel is also wrapped in red and black upholstery. In addition, in the concept vehicle are included a recently newly developed high-strength, lightweight door frames. No compromises were made regarding the handling. There is also no need to recharge the car through plugs. Instead the vehicle simply rolls onto an induction field from SEW Eurodrive for non-contact charging.

The project “Dock+Go” is definitely a different concept vehicle. First, the size of the battery and therefore the costs are depend on several factors, drive with high power, or operating range, and the Battery charging strategies. Although it has a small Battery, it has enough power to cover all the daily trips. Secondly, three instead of two axles means six instead of four wheels. No other car includes this. The AEZ engineers’ technical goal was to make the rims as light as possible, in order to set high standards for the efficiency and performance of the vehicle. Third, it is fascinating adaptable vehicle with improved range size. It also offers technical solution for the functioning of interfaces accounts not only for coupling the e-vehicle’s mechanical and electrical equipment by means of energy, space and accessory ‘Packs’, but also connecting to existing infrastructure. Furthermore, a number of innovative business models have been developed for “Dock+Go”. Hence, this concept has the unique potential to significantly reduce existing e-vehicle drawbacks in terms of range and space. In fact, what is more important is that Rinspeed’s “Dock+Go” approach relies on an existing product line – like the Smart for instance – and establishes the best conditions for profitable production in the shortest possible time. This delivers the opportunity to literally “add” the project to any present EV.

Source: Rinspeed

March 14, 2012

1968 Chevrolet C-10 V8 10.0 liter vs Ferrari 599 GTB and Porsche 911 Turbo Rinspeed

Dragtimesinfo has released a new video with two interesting drag battles.

The first one is between a mighty 1968 Chevrolet C-10 powered by huge V8 with 10.0 liters of displacement and 850PS (625 kW) and Porsche 911 Turbo Mk.2 tuned by Rinspeed with 530PS (390 kW). The run covers 1 mile and both cars hit speeds of around 250 km/h (155 mph). Which is best? Check out in the video below.

The C-10 takes part in the second run, too, but this time against a powerful Ferrari 599 GTB powered by a naturally aspirated 6.0 liter V12 with Aluminium Head and Block. The power is 611BHP (456 kW) at 7600RPM and 607Nm (448 lb-ft) at 5600RPM. 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds, to 200 km/h in 11.0 seconds and a top speed of 330 km/h (205 mph).

Enjoy the video!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dv9rQjEUYxo

Porsche 911 Turbo Rinspeed vs Chevrolet C-10 V8 10.0 liter

Source: Dragtimesinfo via Youtube

February 15, 2012

2012 Rinspeed “Dock+Go” mobility concept

The motto of the concept is simple: “Take 3!” and it is all about taking three axels instead of two. However this modification is based on the thinking “but only if you need them”! This third axle with two wheels is the main feature of the brand new modular mobility system from Swiss automotive visionary Frank M. Rinderknecht. Under the name “Dock+Go” the Swiss will present the vehicle from 8^th till 18^th of March at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. What is so special about this concept lies in the aim of docking “backpacks on wheels.” Moreover these single-axle “packs” can be used in different ways depending on what the driver has to do during the day. In addition they also have an insightful resolution for the so commonly met operating range problem of electric vehicles. The highlight is that neither unneeded space nor superfluous weight is carried along if it is not necessary.

As a basis “Dock+Go.” could be used any electric car: for example you can have the two-seated smart. Furthermore there is a great range of “packs” thank to which you can turn the electric-powered mini car into a dream car of any pizza delivery driver (additionally completed with an integrated heated box). As it goes for the craftsmen – there is a very special thing prepared: a toolbox pack with well-organized spaces for every tool! Eventually after the day has gone and all the work is done everything could e docked to the rear of the mini-mobile.

And here is the great news for all “high-speed” admirers. When you want to accelerate the kilometers per hour more than just 120, there have been provided an “energy pack” with a combustion engine or range extender, packed with batteries or powered by a fuel cell. Thank to it, there is an added range for reaching more distant destinations. Additionally manufacturers have shared a simple but clever trick: the docked third axle drives the rotating second axle and thus recharges the on-board battery of the city car; hence thus the first Vario-Hybrid is born! If you wonder how you can charge the batteries you can do it at home using the energy pack. The last one is recharged with solar power from the roof, thus making living and driving without any CO2 emissions a reality. A perfect car for any environmentalist isn’t it

Source: Rinspeed

December 8, 2011

Rinspeed has announced Bamboo for Geneva debut

Rinspeed will introduce the BamBoo Concept at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, which runs from March 3rd through 13th the next year.

The car looks like a bigger golf cart, but it is designed to evoke memories of sunny days spent on the beach in 1970’s St. Tropez. BamBoo boasts a convertible roof, a bamboo-trimmed interior, and a foldable bicycle.

BamBoo pushes the “reset” button, clears the mind for a new way of thinking. It sports simple, clean lines. (more…)

December 1, 2010

Rinspeed UC? to debut at 2010 Geneva Motor Show

At the 80th Geneva Motorshow occasion this year, the Switzerland-based company Rinspeed will exhibit their latest creation – Rinspeed UC?, a wisely designed 100 percent electric vehicle with recyclable body. (more…)

January 5, 2010

Rinspeed E2

What is this? It is round, small and cuddly, has eyes to fall in love with, a sexy behind – and on demand 60 or 160 hp as necessary. It is Rinspeed’s answer to the fast changing requirements of the market and sociopolitical perception about the tuning industry.’ Rinspeed boss Frank M. Rinderknecht hits the nail on the head: “Just like the auto industry has to adjust to the demands of a new era, tuners have to look for new ways to do business as well.” The Swiss automobile visionary Rinderknecht, who has his roots in the tuning business, observes a change in people’s attitude, at least in the western world: “We need an intelligent use of our fossil resources, especially of our energy”. (more…)

February 26, 2009

Tag: Rinspeed

Exterior styling

Interior styling

Additional equipment

The Hyper High-Tech Interior

The Self-Driving Experience

The Concept Car