Paris Motor Show: Renault Twingo Concept

Although our guy Noah just posted info on this , we now have some live pics and a full press release for this funky fun concept. Renault has introduced its new Twingo concept at the Paris Motor Show, foreshadowing the much-anticipated replacement for the popular supermini. The Twingo concept has some typical show car features that won't likely make it to production, but several might. Styling mimics that of the new Clio.Powered by a 1.2-liter turbo four producing 100 hp, the not-quite-eleven-foot-long Twingo should be zippy. Cool features like frameless door windows and a panoramic glass roof are classy and chic. Four bucket seats surround a center console that houses docks for electronic gadgets and an auxiliary USB port. The instrument pod is center-mounted too. The concept also packs a TV and internet-enabled car PC.(Follow the jump for more info and pics.)Press ReleaseTwingo Concept - a communicating car with a racy, sports pedigreeRenault has chosen the 2006 Paris Motor Show to unveil Twingo Concept. Firmly grounded in ayouth culture of sport, music and fashion, Twingo Concept is powered by the new turbocharged1.2 16V TCE 100 engine. Twingo Concept boasts a host of multimedia features and a high level ofequipment.At only 3.6 meters long, Twingo Concept appeals to customers who have a taste for both attractive, sportycity cars and new communication technologies.Its compact, squat volumes and incisive, assertive styling give it plenty of character, while its sportspedigree is apparent in the design of its lively, expressive front end. The well proportioned bumper andmotor sport-inspired grille hint at the presence of a well-tuned engine committed to performance. Theshape of the indicators in the headlamp modules echoes the chequered flag-based graphics of thebodywork and which flow along the car's pearl-blue sides to subtly suggest speed. The foglamps areflanked by air intakes included to cool the powerful disc brakes.Riding on 17-inch, dark chrome wheels picked out in Renault yellow, Twingo Concept communicates apunchy, dynamic feel. The profiled sills and wing extensions emphasize its sporty lines and athletic curves.At the rear, the chromed twin exhaust tailpipe and air extractor take their inspiration from Clio RenaultSport, and the new Renault badge nestles on the wide hatch, the lower part of which is flanked by "hightech"rear lights.Underneath the short but stylish bonnet is the new small TCE 100 petrol powerplant chosen to powerTwingo Concept. This 1.2-litre turbocharged engine delivers maximum power of 73kW (100hp) andmaximum torque of 145Nm, while its exceptional efficiency combines response, power and environmentalfriendliness.Twingo Concept's low fuel consumption is equivalent to CO2 emissions of less than 140g/km- a remarkably low figure for such a powerful performer.Twingo Concept's sophisticated, young and high-tech cabin marks a stark contrast with its sporty exteriorand takes occupants into a world of mobile sound.Its wide panoramic glass sunroof and two pillarless doors ensure a bright interior that brings out thequalities of its uncluttered, high-tech dashboard. The cabin's simple and ergonomically effective TouchDesign approach is a statement in intuitive understanding.Twingo Concept has found inspiration in youth culture and in its love of music and freedom. The centreconsole features a USB port as well as sockets for devices like Apple's iPod and the Nokia Smartphone. Amixing deck built into the dashboard is ideal for partying with friends.The musical focus is also reflected in the highly visual graphics of the dashboard, the upper part of whichfeatures a pattern based on the graphic equalizer bars with which music-lovers are naturally familiar. It isevocative of the bass rhythms that will pound from the door-mounted speakers and contrasts with the mattfinish of the lower part of the dashboard.The central part of the dashboard has an analog speedometer which sits above a 15-inch retractable,folding monitor which, for safety reasons, can only be deployed when the car is at a standstill. Behind thisscreen are all the functions of a computer that permit passengers to log on to the Internet, while a webcam is incorporated into the screen to remain in visual contact with the outside world.In an assertion of personality and originality, Twingo Concept's interior comes with its own "light show".When the car is at a standstill and the multimedia mode is activated, the cabin is bathed in a blue, hightechglow. When the driver presses the start button and the engine kicks in, the dominant hue automatically shiftsto Renault yellow to energize the cabin with a sportier feel.Twingo Concept accommodates its four occupants in independent bucket seats with built-in headrests thatprovide first class comfort and support. The night-blue fabric of the upholstery contrasts with thesophisticated white of the seats' structure which echoes the cabin's colour scheme by emitting shafts ofyellow light. All seats have individual jack plugs so that each occupant can listen to his or her favouritemusic.The small steering wheel with flattened lower section falls naturally to hand. It is a concentrate oftechnology and bristles with an array of controls for mobile systems, as well as a microphone for econferencingover a Bluetooth connection.The large, ergonomically designed rev-counter is located on the steering column in the driver's line ofsight. Its unique graphic design ensures optimal clarity.Passengers can stow and chill cans of energy drinks in a purpose-designed compartment in the boot.Twingo Concept is a trendy car conceived for enjoying and sharing music. When the rear hatch is open, itsbuilt-in speakers face outwards so that when the DJ gets mixing on the deck the partying can continue wellinto the night.Twingo Concept - Technical CharacteristicsDimensionsOverall length 3,600mmWidth (excluding exterior mirrors) 1,727mmHeight 1,411mmPowertrainPetrol, four-cylinder 16-valve turbocharged engineMaximum power: 73kW/100hp.Six-speed manual gearboxMultimedia equipmentCentre console incorporating USB, Apple iPod and Nokia Smartphone socketsMixing deckBluetooth internet access, webcam and microphoneSpecial thanks to Apple, Nokia, Michelin and Montupet.

Paris Motor Show: hybrid CityCab concept

Now this is different! Prowling the fringe exhibits, Autoblog's John Neff ran across this innovative CityCab concept - the creation of a student design team in Finland.Looking for all the world like a modern recreation of the London cab, the CityCab is powered by the Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive from a Prius, and features a height-adjustable air suspension, carbon fiber bodywork, and a wheelchair-friendly interior.The CityCab is a cooperative effort of Helsinki Polytechnic and the University of Art and Design Helsinki, and more information on the project is available at the . In the meantime, check out the pictures and press release after the jump.

Press Release:

CityCab - the Next Generation Taxi Cab Is Here!

Today, public transportation in most metropolitan areas is fluent, but using a private passenger car is becoming more and more problematic. This stresses the importance of a functional taxi system. A traditional passenger car or a van transformed into a taxicab is not by far the best solution. What we need is a special vehicle similar to the London Cab, but redesigned and equipped with the latest technology. Helsinki Polytechnic and the University of Art and Design Helsinki share a common view of the next generation metropolitan taxicab - the CityCab. It serves as a starting point for international discussion on what the passengers and drivers really want.

Putting Customers First

The design of the CityCab is based on a detailed passenger survey. The passengers' wishes have been realized by using the latest vehicle technology and innovative design. The CityCab is designed for five passengers with an option for one passenger using a wheel chair. Getting on the car is easy as the vehicle's air suspension system allows the floor level to be lowered to a desired height during a stop. Making the floor completely even and the entrance wider has facilitated the easy entrance even further. The CityCab offers space, comfort and a luxorious leather interior turning the taxi ride into an experience. The car's futuristic and distinguished form gives the customer an idea of what's to come.

Safe and Environmentally Friendly Solution

The 21st century taxicab needs to be environmentally friendly and safe. CityCab's fuel consumption and emissions are both extremely low thanks to the hybrid powertrain by Toyota and the vehicle's ultra-light body. The carbon fibre composite body manufactured using a novel SPRINT technology weighs 75% less than a steel body and it's also cost-competitive. The vehicle's crashworthiness has been determined through computer simulation tests.

Purpose-designed for Cabdriver

Customers usually spend very little time on a taxicab but it's the cabdriver's workplace for the whole work shift. CityCab provides the driver with easy entrance, ideal ergonomy and the latest specialty equipment integrated in the cockpit modules. Servicing the customer is easy. On top of all this, the car is incredibly easy to handle: CityCab's turning circle is only 6.9 metres. This front wheel drive car practically turns in its place thanks to its four wheel steering!

Future Prospects?

CityCab is not merely a prototype built into a show car. It is a fully functional research vehicle whose functionality will be tested against other current alternatives in the taxi traffic of Helsinki metropolitan areas. Prior to this, it will be shown at international car shows where the taxicab's performance will be systematically evaluated from the standpoints of both customers and experts. For the time being, CityCab is a non-commercial R&D project even though more than 40 companies are involved in the project. Helsinki Polytechnic, the project leader, is however willing to negotiate the commercial application of the work accomplished.

Paris Motor Show: Suzuki Splash concept

We couldn't figure out why John was sending us pictures of a toy car from the Paris Motor Show until he filled us in that this is actually the very cute, very small Suzuki Splash concept. The little jellybean in Lagoon Blue is what Suzuki dubs a "clinic model," or the first step towards a new production vehicle.

The marketing guys at Suzuki say that it's a car for everything and anybody for every kind of trip, but we've heard that one before -- we peg this more as a driving machine for the young and cash-strapped, as well as senior citizens looking for something small and fun.

The exterior, Suzuki says, is inspired by the youthful quality one might find in a splash of water. LED lights abound, and the lines are fun and cartoonish. Check out the floating-look chrome A-pillar and the wraparound tail lights. The side mirrors incorporate cameras that feed into the center console display on the inside.

The interior is no small shakes either. The car is tall and the roof is glass, making it seem huge considering its small size. The floating look is evident in the instrument panel as well, where the gauges sit, bubble-like. Blue leather trim finishes off the look.

John snapped some great shots of the concept -- follow the jump and have a look.

Fun to drive and fun to use: a car for everybody

An exciting Suzuki project to follow the new Swift, Grand Vitara, and SX4 is now under way. Named "Project Splash" to signify a new sensation, it's making its debut in "clinic model" form-the first tangible step toward a production model-at the 2006 Paris Mondial de l'Automobile.

Based on the concept of a car for everybody in the family, Project Splash is a multipurpose vehicle intended to deliver satisfaction to all customers regardless of lifestyle, age, and gender in driving situations ranging from relatively short shopping trips to cross-country excursions.

* Superlative driveability

* Comfortable cabin

* Contemporary interior design

Project Splash represents an unprecedented set of automotive values.

A platform shared with the new Swift means Project Splash combines Swift-derived performance with the driveability for which Suzuki is renowned. Driving is accordingly enjoyable around town and over longer distances.

A relatively tall body affords ample occupant comfort within manageable exterior dimensions. It incorporates a panoramic glass roof that creates an airy feeling in the cabin.

The cabin has a contemporary design that's based on gentle curves. Its equipment includes an innovative multi-display that aids the driver regardless of whether he or she is a relative novice or someone who relishes a more involving driving experience.

Exterior

The exterior design of Project Splash embodies the energy, youthfulness, and delight suggested by a splash of water. Sharp lines, bold contours, and chrome accents give the body a sporty, emotionally appealing look.

Seen from the front, Project Splash has a strong-looking 'face' incorporating long, slim, slanting light-emitting-diode (LED) headlights and a large grille. The panoramic glass roof, which realizes a roomy, open-looking cabin area, is also visible.

The side view is distinguished by floating-look chrome A-pillar covers and by chrome side mouldings that complement emotionally appealing body contours. The side mirrors each incorporate a turn-signal lamp and a rear-view camera. And a stable, sporty stance is realized by positioning of the wheels and flared fenders in the extreme corners of the body.

A dynamic, rounded rear-end design incorporates LED rear combination lamps and integrated dual exhaust tailpipes.

Interior

The interior design reflects a focus on enjoyment and ease of use.

At the front of the cabin, the driver's area offers practical, visual, and tactile benefits: A single, high-legibility meter in a blue-coloured, floating-look instrument panel incorporates a speedometer and an information display showing the shift position, a fuel gauge, a clock, an odometer, a tripmeter, the average fuel consumption, and the driving range on remaining fuel. A large, central multi-display gives navigation, side-rear-view, audio, and climate-control indications. The gearshift control has an intuitively usable ball-shaped, instrument-panel-mounted design. And a leather-wrapped steering wheel incorporates controls for audio and display functions.

The entire cabin is distinguished by a blue-based colour scheme. The driver and passengers enjoy a sense of openness thanks to the panoramic glass roof. And they enjoy comfort on short and long journeys alike thanks to contemporary, refined, leather-upholstered seats that offer superior support.

Safety

To help the driver avoid hazards, Project Splash has a range of active-safety technologies including an anti-lock braking system, an Electronic Stability Program, and large front and rear ventilated disc brakes. And in case of an unavoidable collision, it incorporates a collapsible steering column, foot-protection-design brake and clutch pedals, front-seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters, energy-absorbing trim, and front, front-side, and curtain airbags, all combined with a crashworthy body structure.

Specifications

Vehicle type:

Concept car

Powertrain layout:

Front engine, front-wheel drive (two-wheel drive)

Seating capacity:

Five persons

Tyres:

215/45R18

Wheels:

18-inch, five-spoke, aluminium-alloy

Engine:

Newly developed 1.2L, 16-valve, four-cylinder

Transmission:

Four-speed automatic

Overall length:

3,780mm

Overall width:

1,780mm

Overall height:

1,650mm

Wheelbase:

2,360mm

Body colour:

Lagoon Blue Pearl Metallic

Paris Motor Show: Peugeot 908 RC concept

Our man on the ground in Paris John Neff is reporting on one the most imposing, scariest car at the show: the sinister Peugeot 908 RC. The concept sedan shares its engine with the 908 Le Mans , a 5.5-liter HDi V12 turbodiesel pumping out an earth-shattering 700 horsepower, driving through a six-speed sequential gearbox.

Constructed of a carbon composite and aluminum, the sedan is capable of reaching over 300 km/h and covering a kilometer from a standstill in a scant 22 seconds. To get the enormous 5-meter-long sedan back to a standstill, the car is equipped with the latest carbon ceramic brakes from Brembo with 6 pistons up front and four in the rear.

Check out our previous posts for the full specs and even a couple of videos, and follow the jump for more photos from the show floor, factory-sourced press pics, and even a few design sketches.

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Concept Cars - Lamborghini Concept S

Like the 350 GTS and the Miura Roadster before it, the Lamborghini “Concept S” is a unique concept car, an extreme and spectacular expression of the Lamborghini brand. Created at the Centro Stile Lamborghini in Sant’Agata Bolognese by Luc Donckerwolke, Head of Lamborghini Design, the “Concept S car” is his extreme interpretation of an „open car“. Using the Gallardo as a basis, Donckerwolke drew inspiration from the classic single-seater racing cars of the past to create this latest design study. Read more.. Concept Cars - Lamborghini Concept S