concept

Nissan announces Pivo 2, four other premieres for Tokyo auto show

This odd-looking pod-on-wheels, a concept car from Nissan, will be on display at the 2007 Tokyo auto show. Pivo 2 was designed as an urban car, with excellent maneuverability and an electric drive. The chassis of the car doesn't have a front or back--instead, the pod revolves, letting the driver face whichever direction needs to be front. No more 238-point turns as you try to get out of a cul-de-sac. For parking flexibility, all of the wheels can turn 90 degrees, so the car can parallel park by sliding sideways into a spot. We definitely need one of these … Read more

Suzuki previews its Tokyo auto show lineup

Following on the heels of Mitsubishi, Suzuki published pictures and descriptions of its lineup for the upcoming 2007 Tokyo auto show. The Suzuki lineup shows off some very interesting concepts and some minicars unique to Asian markets. Better yet, about half of its entries are motorcycles, emphasizing that the Tokyo auto show devotes a significant amount of floor space to new motorcycles and concepts.

On October 24, CNET Car Tech will begin reporting on the 2007 Tokyo auto show, on the Car Tech blog.

Click here for photos of Suzuki's Tokyo auto show lineup

Design the 2018 Mazda 3

As if YouTube presidential debates weren't enough, Mazda turns to the Internet to find a designer for its future Mazda 3 model. The company posted the Mazda Design Challenge on Facebook (Facebook registration required), inviting would-be automotive designers to submit their ideas for what the 2018 model should look like. For the initial entry, you will have to submit a 150-word description of your vision for the 2018 Mazda 3, plus an optional sketch. Our advice: don't skimp on the sketch--visuals help, especially in a design contest. Mazda judges will choose 10 semifinalists, then throw it back to … Read more

A laptop straight out of Minority Report

Well, not literally. But the VAIO Zoom concept laptop looks like it could be part of John Anderton's arsenal of tech tools. Composed of two sheets of thin glass hinged together, the Zoom relies on holographic technology for both the screen and the input devices. When the laptop is turned off, the screen becomes completely transparent and the keyboard opaque.

Being technology critics, we have to wonder: Where's the power source? What are the components? How comfortable can it be to type on a flat panel? Can an object made entirely of glass be all that portable?

But … Read more

Mitsubishi leaves nothing to the imagination

While other automakers only tease us with cryptic press releases and sketches of what they'll display at upcoming auto shows, Mitsubishi went ahead and laid it all on the line for the upcoming 2007 Tokyo auto show. The company, which has been doing some very impressive things in the realm of car technology, sent out a release with full details on its show cars. Amongst its lineup is an electric car, a crossover, and a new sedan.

i MiEV Sport Mitsubishi has been developing electric vehicles for some time--we've seen the company's work with in-wheel motors at … Read more

Flextreme design videos

If automotive design interests you, take a look at these videos documenting the development of the Opel Flextreme. We covered the Opel Flextreme concept car at the 2007 Frankfurt auto show. It's essentially the Chevy Volt for Europe, using the same series hybrid powertrain. The Flextreme is a bit bigger and, most notably, it has a couple of Segways stored in its rear. If you want to find out why, watch the videos.

Flextreme design Part 1 This video is mostly an interview with Mark Adams, vice president of design for GM Europe. He talks in general terms about … Read more

Video: Volvo ReCharge concept

Better bring a calculator to count up all the ways this concept saves fuel. Keep it plugged in overnight to get about 60 miles of gas- and emissions-free driving. For longer trips, the gas engine fires up to turn a generator, adding electricity to the lithium-polymer battery pack.

See all 2007 Frankfurt auto show coverage.

Video: Mercedes-Benz F700

Ever dream of an S Class with a four-cylinder engine? The F700 research vehicle uses an innovative engine, called the DiesOtto, that burns gasoline but works like a diesel. It is amazingly efficient, with enough power to move a large sedan.

See all 2007 Frankfurt auto show coverage

Video: Nissan Mixim concept

Nissan describes the Mixim as 99 percent evil and 1 percent cute. Nissan's concept uses two electric motors, one on each axle, but the company hasn't published many details about range, speed, or other performance specifications. The press materials say that this car is aimed at a younger generation that has turned away from oil-burning cars.

See all 2007 Frankfurt auto show coverage.