Qiantu next luxury coupe

China-based EV startup Qiantu Motor will roll out more new models based on its three major vehicle platforms, following the Qiantu K50, the automaker's EV roadster which officially hit the market on August 8, according to the startup's chairman Lu Qun.

Qiantu Concept 1 made its debut at the Auto Chine 2018. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2Rwaard)

After the launch of those K50, Qiantu also has launched a small EV hatchback K20, and a business sedan which was named as the Qiantu Concept 1 earlier this year. And these luxury sedan concept was unveiled at the 2018 Auto China is said to be the first model based on the startup's mid-full size PV platform. 

Left side view of Qiantu Concept 1 with its suicide door-types open. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2Rwaard)

In term of design, the luxury sedan made by the Chinese brand with the dragonfly logo has long-sleek bonet with short rear-end, there're Y-shaped headlights in front, and also equiped 4 doors of suicide-types on the both sides.

Rear side view of Qiantu Concept 1. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2DkcsXx)

The Concept I is a chauffeur-driven luxury sedan designed for the well-heeled people that has an exterior's look a sleek and elegant plus an attention-grabbing interior in two different colours and finishes – not split front to rear as is sometimes seen, but diagonally, in silver and gold.

Rear view of Qiantu Concept 1. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2yMSr8f)

There are certainly plenty of entertaining ideas in the Qiantu sedan concepts, and has given them a very distinctive look (check out those wheels) which may help them get a foothold in their chosen market, ie in the upmarket/luxury EV space.

It could be speculated that the mass-produced model of these 4 doors coupe will be positioned as a mid-to-large pure electric model, similar to the Tesla Model S.

The Qiantu Concept 1 is another example of Chinese automakers and startups taking the electric vehicles to the next level and seriously redefining the future of human mobility. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | QIANTU | CAR DESIGN NEWS | INDEPENDENT.IE | AVAX NEWS | WATTEV2BUY]

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Seeing Subaru's newest concept as a potential replacement for the iconic Impreza WRX STI

The 2018 Tokyo Auto Salon is one of the world's leading automotive exhibition events held in the Makuhari Messe, Tokyo, where many world-famous automotive manufacturers such as Honda, Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, Audi and others show off concept cars and/or versions production.

Subaru Viziv STI Performance Concept has made its debut at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2018. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2yBqwb6)

Like not wanting to miss the train, Subaru also took advantage of the 2018 Tokyo Auto Salon moment to present one of the new concept cars that reflect a fast car for the rally arena. Here is the Subaru Viziv STI Performance Concept, the hottest version of Viziv Performance that was exhibited at the same event last year which was touched by the cool and crazy hands of technicians from Subaru Tecnica International.

Front view of Subaru Viziv STI Performance Concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2yBqwb6)

But the most noticeable touch on its appearance is the new front bumper is reshaped with a larger air intake and given the STI emblem, then the grille is revised slightly. The side sill of these concept car is also new, and Subaru decided to pair a jumbo-sized rear spoiler, and a rear diffuser made from carbon fiber in these Subaru Viziv STI Performance Concept. As the result, these concept car more like a circuit racing car than a rally car.

Left side view of Subaru Viziv STI Performance Concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2yBqwb6)

The manufacturer said that they made this Subaru Viziv STI Performance Concept to "Realize Subaru's vision of making cars that bring enjoyment and peace of mind to its users." 

Rear side view of Subaru Viziv STI Performance Concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2yBqwb6)

In our opinion, by looking at a car like this, how can it make us calm? On the contrary, it will make the heart beat fast waiting for when the car will be realized. Moreover, it is said that this is becoming a little "spoiler" from the figure of the new Subaru WRX STI. Indeed, Subaru needs a new formula to sharpen the performance figures of the WRX STI.

Rear view of Subaru Viziv STI Performance Concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2yBqwb6)

Reportedly, the model of this car will soon be discontinued sales in the European market following unsatisfactory sales figures, even though this car was recognized as a famous car. At the very least, by 2020 a new generation has emerged, though there is still little doubt. However, since the emergence of Subaru Ascent which is similar to Ascent Concept, there is still a little hope.

For the engine, Subaru still has not able to decide between maintaining the purity of its flagship turbo boxer engine or marrying a 2,000 cc 4-cylinder turbo FB20 boxer engine with a hybrid system that relies on batteries and electric motors. Yes, it's looks like a difficult choice. What do you think? *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | EVO]

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The sensation of eco-friendly future sports cars

It turns out that Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) has the latest sports car model named Toyota GR HV (Gazoo Racing Hybrid Vehicle) Sport Concept. This model becomes a new way to enjoy the sensation of an eco-friendly sports car driving. This cool sports car made its first public appearance at the 45th Tokyo Motor Show 2017.

Toyota GR HV Sport Concept made its debut at the 45th Tokyo Motor Show 2017. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2CE1ZF8)

Toyota states that the GR HV Sport concept is a new way to enjoy a car that integrates the sensation of a sports vehicle with the environmental friendliness. At least, this car has three main features. On the design side, it will remind us of the Toyota Gazoo Racing TS050 hybrid racing car, which competes in the World Endurance Championship (WEC).

Right side view of Toyota GR HV Sport Concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2CE1ZF8)

In addition, the car also features a targa-style open roof which is also used in the Toyota's legendary sports convertible such as Toyota Sports 800 and Supra. In addition, this car is also equipped with THS-R (Toyota Hybrid System-Racing) which is injected with hybrid technology enhanced by the Hybrid TS050.

Dashboard view of Toyota GR HV Sport Concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2CE1ZF8)

For the exterior, the Toyota GR HV Sport design combines reliability of functionality and aesthetic. While the function really embodied as an original sports car, this concept car features the LED headlights, and rear diffuser that is similar to the Hybrid TS050. 

Rear right side view of Toyota GR HV Sport Concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2CE1ZF8)

Meanwhile, the exterior design is also very thick with the smell of Toyota Motor Sport, with a dashing and aggressive matte black colored body. And for its legs, this car is equipped with the 10 spokes aluminum alloy wheels wraps in 19-inches tires.

For the interior there is a slight change, in addition to the Gazoo Racing symbol on the steering wheel and the cluster of digital instruments. There is a unique part on this car that is a shifter (transmission lever) with an H pattern commonly used on the manual cars.

Rear view of Toyota GR HV Sport Concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2CE1ZF8)

The difference is there's no clutch pedal in here. So it's like using a paddle shifter with a stick or lever. While there is also a row of automatic transmission buttons located just below the head unit. This is the uniqueness of Toyota GR HV Sports.

Actually this car has an automatic transmission system, but the driver can switch to manual mode just by pressing a button and you will be able to enjoy the feel of a six-speed manual transmission system. Indeed there is no detailed information about this whether the 6-speed automatic transmission or electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT) as in the Prius - or even the Hybrid Multi-Stage system found on the Lexus LS 500h and LC 500h.

Referring to Toyota's official website, this car has a dimension of 4,395 mm in length, 1,805 mm in width and 1,280 mm in height and can only accommodate two people in the cabin and uses the front engine with rear wheel drive system. 

Unfortunately engine details are still unknown, but Toyota says that the GR HV Sports will use the latest Toyota Hybrid System-Racing (THS-R) system, which is claimed to have the TS050 technology. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | YAHOO | MOTOR1]

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A tiny electric-powered roadster concept with tons of torque

FOMM (First One Mile Mobility) Corporation, a Japanese venture company which has production based in Thailand. The company mission is encouraging the use of electric-powered vehicles in South-East Asia, and in line with this purpose the company brings three of their newest products to the world premiere at the Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS) 2018.

FOMM AWD Sports Concept shown at the Geneva International Motor Show 2018. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2qbKe8B)

As quoted from Carscoops, one of the products launched is a prototype of an electric-powered sports car named FOMM AWD Sports Concept is a sports vehicle which is a compact two seat roadster which features LED headlights, a short windscreen and scissor doors.

Interior view of FOMM AWD Sports Concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2qbKe8B)

The interior is incredibly stylish as it features exposed carbon fiber and a large metal center console. We can also see a bulky steering wheel and carbon fiber shelled seats with leather and Alcantara upholstery. The car's driver will also find a digital instrument cluster and a widescreen infotainment system.

Rear side view of FOMM AWD Sports Concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2qbKe8B)

This car concept is equipped with 4 Li-Ion 2.96 kWh batteries as its power source. It has a maximum power of 20 kW, and a maximum torque of 1,120 Nm. These FOMM AWD Sport Concept is a type of 4 wheel drive vehicle (all wheel drive).

FOMM AWD (All-Wheel Drive) Scooter Concept which has an eye-catching design. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2qbKe8B)

Through one of these products, FOMM defines mobility as a comfortable movement in life. With their pure electric-powered vehicle, the mobility is soft for the community, environment, and saving.

FOMM One Concept has a mileage of 160 km on a single charge. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2qbKe8B)

Together with the concept mentioned above, FOMM brought 2 other concepts to this event. The company’s second concept is FOMM AWD (All-Wheel Drive) Scooter Concept which has an eye-catching design thanks to its black and white exterior with blue accents.

Lastly, the FOMM One Concept is a compact electric vehicle with a front fascia inspired by Japanese Kabuki makeup. The car holds four, presumably tiny, people and can transport them up to 160 km (99 miles) on a single charge. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARSCOOPS]

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The first sports car made by Tata Motors

Tata Motors is known as an Indian automotive manufacturer that produces cheap cars and commercially purposed cars. But at the 2017 Geneva International Motor Show, they performed with an unusual thing namely by bringing a sports car named Tata TAMO Racemo Concept at the world's prestigious automotive exhibition.

Tata TAMO Racemo Concept made its debut at the Geneva International Motor Show 2017. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2Q3RLla)

TAMO is a sub brand of Tata Motors and Racemo is the first sports car made in India which was developed by combining phygital, which is a physical and digital merger.

So called because this car also has strong connection features such as cloud computing, analytic, geo-spatial and mapping that interact with humans. There is even an interactive game from Microsoft where you can try this racing version of Racemo+.

Front view of Tata TAMO Racemo Concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2Q3RLla)

"We introduce TAMO as our answer to technology, business models and collaboration. Racemo is the first innovation from TAMO, our emotions and leap forward to the future," said Guenter Butschek, CEO of Tata Motors.

Right side view of Tata TAMO Racemo Concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2Q3RLla)

This sports car concept appears with a coupe body and can only accommodate two seaters in the cabin and is a design work from Tata Motors Design Studio in Turin, Italy. This car is built using the MoFlex Multi-Material Sandwich (MMS) structure, and is the first car to use this type of structure. Just info, MMS is the latest technology that makes it easy to apply exterior and interior designs.

"The style and design will provide new experiences and technology, Racemo is proof of consumer character development that has become one of the digital lifestyles. This sports car will also be the best solution thanks to the new appearance and showing Tata Motors' vision and mission," Guenter added.

Dashboard view of Tata TAMO Racemo Concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2O7LPGi)

About the engine, Racemo is equipped with a three-cylinder 1,200 cc engine with a turbocharged. The result is the power produced reaches 189 horsepower, and torque of 210 Nm. To drive the car, those engine's power is channeled through a 6-speed automatic transmission system.

Rear side view of Tata TAMO Racemo Concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2Q3RLla)

No wonder, this sports car can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 6 seconds and also there are several other main features such as Bi-LED headlights, electric-powered steering-assited, and then airbag features for the driver and passenger.

Rear view of Tata TAMO Racemo Concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2Q3RLla)

But unfortunately in July 2017, the Indian automotive manufacturer decided to cancel the launch of the version production of the TAMO Racemo sports car. Yes, this sports car project is one of the most ambitious projects in Tata Motors history. On the same occasion the automotive manufacturer also said that the sports car had reached the stage where they were ready to produce and launch the production version.

Tata TAMO Racemo EV Concept shown at the Indian Auto Expo 2018. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2PUYtKh)

The main reason for stopping this car project is a financial problem. Initially TAMO Racemo was intended only for design studies, not mass produced. When shown to high ranked officials at Tata Motors, they agreed to produce these sports car. But then canceled it, because the cost is expensive.

Left side view of Tata TAMO Racemo EV Concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2PUYtKh)

"But now we have put it into 'ice crates'. Whenever we need it we can bring it out and then produce it if the financial conditions allow for commercialization," added Butschek.
Surprisingly, Tata Motors also showcased the electric version of its sports car ‘Racemo+-‘ at this year’s Auto Expo. The Home-grown carmaker unveiled Racemo electric concept at the Auto Show.

It is powered by a 200 hp electric motor with 210 Nm of peak torque. It has the lithium-ion battery pack. Tata Racemo+- is a two-seater that features a 6-speed AMT transmission. Besides, the electric car can travel 350 km on a single charge. Tata Motors claims that the car can do 0-100kmph within 6 seconds.. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARSCOOPS | DRIVESPARK | CARBIKETECH]

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A Canadian eRoadster soon be born

Some famous car manufacturers in the world are working on roadster types such as Tesla and BMW. Well, Tesla is working on the next generation Roadster and BMW with i8 roadster.

Tofino electric Roadster offers 400 km range and Porsche look. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2pHlvsH)

But recently, the electric car company Electra Meccanica has introduced the latest roadster named Tofino, which is even more unique is the vintage-style car that looks similar to the Porsche 356 roadster.

Tofino electric Roadster looks similar to this Porsche 356 C. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2zZNuJX)

Electra Meccanica is an electrical division of the Italian-based Intermeccanica International automotive company. The Vancouver-based company said that Tofino could travel as far as 400 km on a single charge. In addition, the highest speed achieved is 200 km/h and is able to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 7.0 seconds.

Right side view of Tofino e Roadster. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2zZeOYM)

Although the specifications of the vehicle are not comparable to the next generation Roadster from Tesla, or even other company Roadster, the company reportedly sold Tofino at a much cheaper price of US. $37,000 (or approx Rp. 562 millions).

Rear side view of Tofino eRoadster. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2zZeOYM)

The company has been launched the teaser images, but has not provided further information about the plans to mass produce the eRoadster Tofino.

As we all knew, previously Electra Meccanica has launched a three-wheeled EV called SOLO, and reportedly has received many orders in Canada and also in the United States. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ELECTRA MECCANICA | MOTOR1]

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