Posted on 2008 under Concept, Battery, Auto |
15
Mar
Volvo decided to built a full-on working concept model of the Volvo C30-based car. The company is teamed up with Saab in a five-year plan to develop plug-in hybrids, and they’re currently planning a fleet of 10 cars to be tested in Sweden. Volvo plans to announce a hybrid version of one or more existing models within the next five years, but they’re certainly playing it safe — though the lithium-polymer batteries and in-wheel electric motors might prove them otherwise.
Posted on 2008 under Auto, Design, Miscellaneous |
29
Feb
MIT Media Lab’s RoboScooter prototype would be a lot more intriguing if it had some sort of autopilot button, and while that could very well emerge in the future, it looks as if the first models will still require human intervention. Nevertheless, the ultra-compact vehicle is entirely electric, and aside from supporting swappable batteries, it can also fold up for easy transport. Furthermore, its creators boast that the entire rig is constructed from just 150 parts, which makes life on the assembly line that much easier. Granted, even engineers realize that scooters don’t stand much of a chance in America, but if all goes well, this bugger could start conquering Asian streets as early as next year.
Posted on 2008 under Concept, Auto, Design, Gadget, Miscellaneous |
30
Jan
This wheel features electronic sensors which are embedded in to the tire. Information is collected from the sensors and fed back to a vehicle information system. That data is processed and the “tweel ribs” flex through wireless technology to cause the pressure to stay level across the tire. The idea is just in concept at the moment. If this technology was to be made it would have a number of uses such as longer wear on the tire and even the possibility to not have to rotate the wheels like we currently do now. Read more… »
Posted on 2008 under Auto, Miscellaneous |
10
Jan
While many around the globe have their eyes fixated on the events going down in Las Vegas this week, the 9th Auto Expo in New Delhi, India is managing to steal at least a hint of the limelight. Announced today, Tata Motors’ $2,500 “1-Lakh” car will actually see production in India later this year, and it has affectionately been dubbed the NANO. For those not keen on such a title, it can also be recognized as “The People’s Car,” but it seems “The Person’s Car” may have been more appropriate. Nevertheless, this little bundle of automotive joy will feature an all-aluminum, two-cylinder engine that can deliver around 54 US miles per gallo.