Ministering to the interior
The design of passenger car interiors has been changing steadily as
safety and comfort systems have been added. The
"Playstation" generation is likely to bring an increasing
influence on ergonomic and aesthetic design, allied to a reduction
in driver workload and a further enhancement in safety systems'
capability and flexibility.
Highlights from New York
The 2004 New York International Auto Show saw the most world debuts
in the event's history, with strong themes in new midsize
luxury cars and midsize SUVs.
Divergent stands on safety
The battle between consumer advocacy groups and automakers over
safety heats up as Congress contemplates mandates.
Sport compacts go drag racing
Makers of entry-level front-wheel-drive cars hope to translate
power under the hood into power in the showroom.
The art of the possible
Systems integration, mix-and-match materials for advanced
bodyshells, burgeoning information and communication sophisication
for the driver--there seems almost no limit to how
"smart" the European car can become. But is all this
technology a good investment in terms of cash and intellectual
application, or is there a danger of too much technology?
European centers of power
With new Euro 5 emissions regulations looming and CO2 reductions a
necessity, industry executives plan for the right mix of
cost-effective technologies for improved fuel economy and emissions
through engine downsizing in conjunction with pressure-charging and
continued emphasis on the diesel.
Bodybuilding and chassis integration
Automakers are becoming more open to material mixing and matching
for bodies, and they see great potential in further electronic
chassis systems integration.
Ford Shelby Cobra
More than just a design studio exercise, this fully functional
roadster takes the engineering of concept vehicles to a new
level.