This muscle car that GM should build

From 1967 to 2002, Pontiac built the now defunct Firebird. It was a pony car in the purest sense, similar to the Mustang and Camaro that it rivaled, it featured a rear-wheel-drive setup, six- and eight-cylinder engine options, and upwards of 330 horsepower (246 kilowatt) in its most powerful iteration. Sadly, after 35 years on the market, production of the Firebird was eventually shuttered, along with the rest of the Pontiac brand shortly thereafter.

2017 Pontiac Firebird TT concept designed by Kasim Tlibekov. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2Dg0Gwp)

But for those of us that still imagine what a modern Firebird could have been, designer Kasim Tlibekov has us covered. Tlibekov has digitally dreamt up a Firebird for the year 2017. He calls it Pontiac Firebird TT concept – the TT designation likely suggesting a biturbo engine – and it looks absolutely sinister.

Right side view of 2017 Pontiac Firebird TT concept designed by Kasim Tlibekov. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2Dg0Gwp)

Apart from the blacked-out exterior, aftermarket wheels, and wide-body kit, the concept draws a number of similarities to the second-generation Firebird of the '70s and '80s. The handsome rectangular fascia and split grille are among the most noticeable, and pair with a sloped rear and sharp side profile, similar to the modern Mustang and Camaro.

Rear side view of 2017 Pontiac Firebird TT concept designed by Kasim Tlibekov. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2Dg0Gwp)

The rear design, though questionable, includes added retro cues like a split taillight feature and window louvers. The addition of a rear wing and massive diffuser in this case gives the muscle car a race-ready look. Though the designer neglected to give any specifics in terms of power, a new Firebird would likely use the same four-, six-, and eight-cylinder engines found on the Chevy Camaro.

As handsome as this rendering may be, don’t expect to see anything like this from GM in the foreseeable future. The company has no plans of reviving the Firebird, let alone the entire Pontiac marque in the past. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BEHANCE | MOTOR1]

Note: This blog  can be accessed via your smart phone

Will the Mazda RX Vision leave the pure rotary engine?

For those of you who crave the successor of the rotary engine, then you must be prepared to be disappointed. Because the official concept of Mazda RX Vision or the RX-9 candidate is reportedly not using a rotary engine or Wankel.

Here's the new Mazda rotary-engined sports car concept named 'Mazda RX-Vision debuted at the Tokyo Motor Show 2015. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/1ikkqAz)

As is well known that the Wankel production was stopped in 2012, and made as a driving force for the Mazda RX-8. For Mazda fans, this is like sad news. Because Mazda is very attached to the Wankel, with a distinctive engine roar.

But it hasn't ended yet. Recently, Mazda delivered official info at the 2018 Paris Auto Show, affirming their intention to launch the company's first electric vehicle. Where there are two ideas. The first, the Mazda RX Vision uses batteries and electric motors. The second option is to be the range-extender model. This is rarely heard in our ears about the range-extender car.

Mazda working on efficient sky rotary engine. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2JKJD6Z)

Here's the concept. The most obvious example of a range-extender vehicle is the Mazda 2 RE Range Extender concept (below). Where the car uses conventional engines and batteries. When the battery runs out, its conventional engine burn fossil fuel to recharge the battery, not to move the vehicle. As the main driver, still the electric motors.

If it's said to reduce emissions, but why still use internal combustion engine? In some cars, the combustion process uses liquid petroleum gas (LPG), which is lower in emissions from other fossil fuels.

Unfortunately, Mazda hasn't provided information about the type of fuel used. What is clear, they still use the Wankel, but in small dimensions and claimed to be quieter. According to Mazda, this type is ideal as a range-extender, because of its relatively high output and compact size. But this is what removes its character as a sports car.

2013 Mazda 2 RE Range Extender concept. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2OrAgda)

In fact, previously at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show, the Japanese manufacturer was very confident to develop Wankel completely for their RX Vision. We heard it directly. But emissions regulations are getting tougher. Mazda must play the brain. Then, so be a Mazda EV with rotary range-extender.

The carved form of Mazda RX Vision was exhibited in 2015. When it became a mass production vehicle, we hope that the shape will not change. In our opinion, the appearance is very athletic and proportionate.

There is no definite name for RX Vision if it is a mass product. Many said that it would be the successor to the RX-7, RX-8 and some would assume the RX-9 name. We prefer to use the RX-9 name, as a new model.

Whatever the name is, if Mazda only presents a new full EV, sorry we have to say: the new generation of Mazda is the same as the Nissan Leaf or Chevy Bolt. It has no sports car character, whatever its shape. We also understand that the company's plan is called Sustainable Zoom-Zoom. They started to prepare it, as a step for Mazda's business in 2030. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MAZDA | MOTORAUTHORITY]

Note: This blog  can be accessed via your smart phone

Infiniti is ready to bring the F1's driving sensation onto the highway

At one of the world's prestigious automotive expo, Paris Motor Show 2018, a Japan's leading premium brand, Infiniti has showcased their new technology on highway cars in the form of Formula One® dual-hybrid.

Infiniti Project Black S made its debut at the Paris Motor Show 2018. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2QnWEpx)

Surely you have imagined, a Formula 1 hybrid power source at the tips of your toes can be pushed on the highway at any time. Infiniti also provides good news, in the near future, more precisely in 2021, the car has entered the portfolio of electric cars that will be sold at dealers to be owned.

Left side view of Infiniti Project Black S. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2APHPGS)

This prototype named Infiniti Project Black S is based on the Q60 S sport coupe and its development is carried out together with the Renault Sport Formula One racing team. For this project, Infiniti embeded high-performance dual-hybrid technology, the 3.0L V6 twin turbo VR30 plus three motor generators. 

And these three motor generators: the MGU-K harvests energy under braking, and two MGU-H units capture heat from the exhaust. In addition there is an Energy Recovery System (ERS) that contributes to providing more optimal engine boost when needed.

Rear side view of Infiniti Project Black S. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2APHPGS)

As on the current hybrid generation of F1 cars, all this energy is then fed into a battery and redeployed as horsepower. These dual-hybrid prototype is claimed to provide the power equivalent of 563 hp. As for the conventional engine itself, it presents 400 hp. Its acceleration has been confirmed from 0-100 km/h in under 4 seconds.

"Infiniti has reached another milestone in the direction of electrification. Build strength and successful expertise in electric vehicles from the alliance of Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi. And Infiniti shows the Project Black S, a high-performance prototype with F1 technology resulting from collaboration in the Alliance," said Roland Krueger, Chairman and Global President of Infiniti. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOTOR1 | GQ-MAGAZINE]

Note: This blog  can be accessed via your smart phone

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]

Note: This blog  can be accessed via your smart phone

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]

Note: This blog  can be accessed via your smart phone

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]

Note: This blog  can be accessed via your smart phone

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]

Note: This blog  can be accessed via your smart phone