Vehicles

Alternative powertrains must survive the 'hype cycle' SEMA VP Waraniak explains the five-step “hype cycle” for such emerging technologies as plug-in electric vehicles. Chrysler VP Gradu sees diesel as the most cost-effective choice for car performance. In the background is “Goodwin Assist,” a prototype concept to provide electric-drive assist in large vehicles, but at obviously higher cost. Read full story

Golf closes the gasoline/diesel gap, loses mass, and gains 'premiumness' Although longer and wider than its predecessor, the all-new car uses VW Group’s MQB modular transverse matrix platform to be lighter by up to 100 kg (220 lb) and is up to 23% more fuel-efficient. Read full story

Gibbs' Quadski travels 45 mph on land and on water A high-speed amphibious, single-seat sports vehicle is headed to production after engineers logged more than two million hours developing various patented technologies. Read full story

Benteler leads engineering of MAN heavy-duty serial hybrid concept Featuring a diesel engine from Audi as a range extender and modular energy storage beneath the driver’s cab, the MAN Metropolis plug-in hybrid truck concept—developed in cooperation with Benteler Engineering Services and revealed at the recent IAA Hanover Show—will begin a two-year field test as a refuse collection vehicle in January 2013. Read full story

Forstars: the Future for Smart? The concept from the 2012 Paris Motor Show could be a hint at the future design direction for the Daimler subsidiary’s compact Fortwo two seater. Read full story

Mercedes extends electric range For the Concept B-Class Electric Drive shown at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, the battery pack is said to provide a range of up to 200 km (125 mi) on a full charge. Battery recharging can benefit from a rapid charging facility, which is said to be able to provide a range of up to 100 km (62 mi) after one hour of charging from a 400-V supply. Read full story

BMW shows concept for first front-wheel-drive model The company used the 2012 Paris Motor Show to display the Active Concept Tourer that looks set to compete with FWD rivals such as the Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz B-Class. Read full story

Onyx concept showcases innovative materials Job losses and plant closures mean tough times for PSA Peugeot Citroën at the moment. So what better place than the French national motor show to demonstrate that design flair and engineering are alive and well in the company? Read full story

Adam: a first from Opel/Vauxhall The design-oriented Adam was the only car on show on the Opel booth at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, the solo act signifying the importance of the company’s first entry into the European three-door hatchback A-segment. Read full story