The Audi A8 made its first public debut, showcasing its technologies which include a new-generation MMI system, brake energy regeneration and the latest quattro AWD system.
Dubbed the ‘Detroit Showcar Audi e-Tron’, Audi’s new variant of the e-Tron all-electric sports car features two electric motors instead of four. While Audi has confirmed around 1000 e-Trons will be made to order, there has been no word on whether the latest version will go into production.
BMW’s all-electric concept, the ActiveE, is based on the 1-Series coupe. It features a 125kW motor, getting its power from a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery
The Chevrolet Aveo RS was designed and built in Melbourne, Australia, and may be landing on their shores next year as the Barina.
The new Ford Focus hatch and sedan models feature Ford’s latest “Kinetic” design language, with only the rear windows being the standout difference. Under the bonnet the new cars will include a range of EcoBoost four-cylinder turbo-charged direct injection engines with improved fuel economy.
GMC’s Granite Concept features a massive grille, rear-hinged doors and turbo-charged 1.4-lire engine.
The Honda CR-Z, the production version of its sporty CR-Z Hybrid, is to be launched in Japan next year with a 1.5-litre four-clinder i-VTEC petrol engine paired with an electric motor.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet is based on the Coupe, and procliams to have “one of the quietest interiors in the segment for four-seater premium cabriolets with a fabric roof”. A highlight is AIRSCARF – the neck-level heating system – perfect for driving when the roof is down.
The Mini Beachcomber was seen in the flesh – the open-air SAV having taken inspiration from the Mini Moke and Mini Crossover, and features a soft roof and optional lightweight doors for bad weather.
Volkswagen’s New Compact Coupe is a four-seater powered by a 1.4-litre TSI four-cylinder combined with an electric motor. Around the same size and with similiar styling to the Jetta, there has been no word on whether this car will go into production.
The Volvo C30 all-electric vehicle isn’t a production vehicle yet, but Volvo says it is a complete package – fully driveable, complete interior and full instrumentation. Fifty will go into public trials to gather data.
Stay tuned for more…
