Flybrian

EXCLUSIVE! EXCLUSIVE! EXCLUSIVE! That's all MT is nowadays.

You guys got it. And that goes for everyone else, too. Extension has been extended. Good luck!

This would actually be cool to rent for the weekend while you're staying in a small beach town or something. But as a car, its goofy as hell.

The basis behind this (exchanging body shells to suit individual needs) was first explored with GM's AUTOnomy skateboard concept years ago, btw.

Western Digital

Well, how about this simple question - Is it that far outside the realm of possibility for Chevrolet's possible forthcoming Lambda to sport dual sliding doors? Is this a financially-viable alternative to dedicated minivans?

The Nissan. Right?

This is an Interavia E-3... Its a purpose-built Russian aerobatic plane similar in form to the Sukhoi Su-26 aerobatic planes that fly airshows.

Volkswagen Nanospyder By the Manufacturer Designers: Patrick Faulwetter, Daniel Simon and Ian Hunter In the year 2015 the Department of Transportation mandated that vehicles are to be 100% recyclable. In addition, to keep up with the latest safety standards, the vehicles will have a lifespan of 5 years. We envision that Volkswagen would respond to this mandate by initiating a company-wide change in the manufacturing processes by adopting and adapting the latest advances in nano-technology to eventually create a vehicle that would not only meet the requirements, but exceed all expectations. The Volkswagen Nanospyder would be the cutting edge of recyclability. It would use nano-technology to create a vehicle capable of being assembled, disassembled, and reassembled on a microscopic level. Billions of tiny nano-machines no larger than a half a millimeter in diameter would attach to one another in a large assembly tank. This method would create vehicles that are optimized for strength, weight and safety to an unprecedented degree. The ability to vary the apparent density of the frame would allow us to engineer "crumple zones" for safety. Using sensor data the nano-machines would be able to sense an impending collision and strengthen or weaken their connection to each other to ensure the survival of the passengers. Link to Original Article @ Automobile Online

Toyota Calty RLV By the Manufacturer Designer: Kevin J. Chun As population in Los Angeles increases and more vehicles appear on the road, traffic conditions in the LA area continues to worsen. This traffic problem is the main focus and reasoning behind Toyota's RLV (Renewable Lifestyle Vehicle) concept for 2015. The RLV is a lightweight, aluminum bodied, two-seat tandem vehicle that features an innovative collapsible track system and a split powertrain. Most 'Angelenos' agree that only two speeds exist in LA: 5 and 75mph. Also, rush hour and no rush hour, traffic and no traffic. Thus, 'tortoise and hare'...slow and fast. The Toyota RLV identifies this 'tortoise and hare' traffic situation and features a new type of hybrid, 'split' powertrain solution. The vehicle offers a manual/pedal power mode and an automatic/electric mode. The manual/pedal mode is hydraulically driven and can be used in many different scenarios. Primarily, it's used while in heavy, 'stop and go' traffic where the vehicle produces zero emissions. Also, the pedal mode is suitable for boardwalk, sidewalk, neighborhood, and beach applications. The manual/pedal mode also promotes LA's lifestyle of health and fitness...all while functionally recharging the electric motor batteries. The automatic/electric mode is used at higher speeds and in light traffic conditions. As vehicle speed increases, the track widens for more stability via a unique telescopic axle. The vehicle also features a removable, translucent bio-plastic body paneling. The seats in the RLV are composed of wicker and bio-plastics while the floorboard is constructed of bamboo and aluminum. For rollover safety, the RLV incorporates a frame-integrated pop-up roll bar as well as pop-up headrests. The Toyota RLV concept is a specialized vehicle solution to LA’s extreme traffic condition. The vehicle improves quality of life while preserving the environment. Link to Original Article @ Automobile Online

MINI BioMoke By the Manufacturer Designed by: Gary Shiu OPEN-AIRED, GO ANYWHERE The Mini BioMoke is an optimistic approach to the issue of global warming and sustainable design. Its go-anywhere capabilities allow you to travel though southern california’s exquisite landscape while its open aired cockpit lets you enjoy the temperate climate native to southern California. SOME ASSEMBLY REQUIRED Influenced by a history of hot rodding culture and the recent resurgence of prefabricated homes in southern California, the BioMoke comes in kit car format, encouraging user interactivity and lets the user be proactive in choosing an alternative fuel powertrain. The kit car format also encourages the reusing of mechanical components from previous generations of automobiles, promoting the practice of recycling and reducing waste. SEED IMPLANTED SANDWICH PANEL The body of the BioMoke is constructed from a single sheet of biodegradable sandwhich panel which is implanted with palm tree seeds. As the Biomoke ends its five year life cycle, its body composts to grow trees, cleaning the air previous generations of automobiles have polluted. The biodegradable sandwich panel used to construct the body is implanted with palm tree seeds. As the BioMoke completes its life cycle, its mechanicals are passed onto future BioMokes while its body composts to grow trees. EXHAUST OXYGEN All body components of the Mini Biomoke are formulated to biodegrade after a five year life cycle, never sooner. The sandwich panels used in constructing the Biomoke are implanted with palm tree seeds. As the Biomoke completes its life cycle, its mechanicals will be passed on to future generations of biomokes, while its body composts to grow trees. Mechanical components are reused from previous generation Minis or bought from Mini or other sources. Buyers select which alternative fuel powertrain they want. REDUCE The Mini BioMoke is an optimistic and minimalist approach to travel as it relates to the issue of global warming and sustainable design. Its go-anywhere capabilities allow you to motor through Southern California’s exquisite landscape while its open-aired cockpit lets you enjoy the temperate climate native to this region. REUSE Influenced by a history of hot rodding culture and the recent resurgence of prefabricated homes in Southern California, the BioMoke comes in kit car format, encouraging user interactivity with customizable body panels and alternative fuel powertrains. The kit car format also promotes the reusing of mechanical components from previous generations of vehicles, and the practice of recycling and reducing waste. RECYCLE Seed-Implanted Sandwich Panel Construction. The BioMoke's body is constructed from a single sheet of biodegradable sandwich paneling which is impregnated with palm tree seeds. As the Biomoke ends its five year life cycle, its body composts to promote tree growth, cleaning the air that previous generations of automobiles have polluted. Link to Original Article @ Automobile Online

Mercedes-Benz RECY By the Manufacturer DESIGNERS: Andre Frey, Gorden Wagener, Nick Garfias, Jeffrey Aneiros, and Christopher Rhoades Wood, alloys, glass, and rubber combine unexpectedly yet symbiotically in the Mercedes-Benz RECY to create the ultimate recyclable California roadster. Powered by a four-cylinder Blu-Tec bio-diesel motor and designed open-air to take advantage of the famed southern California weather and lifestyle, the RECY's tubular, high strength frame and laminated wood shell ensure both driver and passenger are fully protected should the unfortunate occur. An open-wheel concept with bold, clean surfacing, the RÇCY imbues to its owner a sense of old-world craftsmanship with its hand assembled and grain matched wood panels. Inspired by Riva hand-crafted wooden yachts and high performance eyewear, the RECY combines multiple influences in one seamless presentation. One hundred percent recyclable and created from sustainable resources, the RECY can be a continually renewable vehicle. Constantly "recycling itself", the high strength RECY frame allows owners to maintain that portion of the vehicle while replacing those panels that may be damaged. Whether via necessity or through a desire for the ultimate customizable California vehicle, owners may continually update and recycle their vehicle through the swapping of panels. And yes, you can use those old panels to create that perfect campfire! But the RECY does not stop there. After five years, the consumer has the option to bring the one hundred percent recyclable RECY to a designated recycling center to be reduced to its elemental materials. Fast, fun, and fully recyclable, the RECY from Mercedes-Benz is the vehicle of choice for the ecologically minded consumer who demands a smart alternative to the traditional roadster. Link to Original Article @ Automobile Online

Kia Sandstorm By the Manufacturer Designed by: Marc Mainville This buggy will take any beach bum or shoobie from zero to sunny in no time at all with towels in the trunk, a buddy to the right and a boat or longboard in tow. A biodiesel electric plug-in hybrid with a NiMH, fully recyclable battery, this vehicle is so environmentally friendly that you might ask it to pass the shades and SPF. The vehicle's barbecue-friendly storage with a solar-powered cooling feature will keep the burgers cool(?!?!) and the beverages at a tongue-pleasing temp all day long. And, nobody will be able to talk trash about the passengers in this vehicle because of its built-in, detachable recycling bins. For eco-fashionistas that want it in red, instead, just recycle the Polyethylene Terephthalate (PETE) panels for new ones in a favorite shade. And whether the top is up or down, green living has never been so sporty. When the sun has set, the next course of adventure takes place in California's commuter lanes where one can hang 10, 20 or even 55 miles per hour getting you back to the yurt in no time at all securely enclosed in a hydroformed aluminum safety cage. The Kia Sandstorm allows its drivers to feel the renewable energy--their own. Link to Full Article @ Automobile Online

Honda Extreme By the Manufacturer Designed by: Nicholas David, Daniel Talbert, and David Cheng The Honda Extreme is a concept of recyclable sustainability. The vehicle consists of a honeycomb chassis made of polycarbonate that can accommodate various body styles to better suit the different life stages of the owner so that the vehicle "grows" with the owner. The body can be modified at your local Honda Sustainability Center which also carries out the usual exemplary service and maintenance. At the end of the fifth year, the chassis can be recycled. Link to Full Article @ Automobile Online

GM Hummer O2 By the Manufacturer Director: Frank Saucedo Strategy: Steve Anderson Concept & Design: Jussi Timonen & Jose Paris 3D Modeling: Loren Kulesus, Jussi Timonen & Jose Paris "THE HUMMER THAT BREATHES" Why can’t a car give back to our environment? We are each responsible for a damaging and non-productive "carbon footprint"- the effect our daily lives have on the earth’s environment. The HUMMER O2 is an automotive concept which explores the use of basic science principles that would result in a reversal of our daily toll on the surrounding environment. The HUMMER O2 represents the first time a vehicle has been designed to give back to our environment, in essence, an environmental NET GAIN over the lifespan of the vehicle. The HUMMER O2 concept features a revolutionary phototropic body shell that produces pure oxygen throughout the lifespan of the vehicle. It's actually quite simple, algae-filled body panels transform harmful CO2 into pure oxygen that is subsequently released back into the environment. To further reduce environmental impact, the O2's construction specifies the use of 100% post consumer materials like aluminum (frame), VOC-free finishes (seats) and PETE (glazing). Details: PHOTOSYNTHESIS The phototropic body panels function as the "leafs" of the O2. Each one contains an optimized photobioreactor where a solution of algae and water transforms toxic carbon dioxide into pure oxygen. The oxygen is then released back into the environment as well as inside the cockpit. Oil changes are replaced by annual algae replacement. The used algae are then recycled as biomass for the production of energy. BREATHING The flow of Co2 and oxygen is regulated by a two-way valve system ("Mistic Devices" TM) in the corner of each panel. These sophisticated devices control and monitor the amount of CO2 and source nutrition needed for the algae cultivation and optimize oxygen production and distribution. STRUCTURE A central aluminum "tree" creates a perfect hexagonal structure that both protects the central hydrogen tank and supports the external structural body panels. The stiff body panels transform the tree intro a safe enclosed spaceframe taking care of side impact protection. Front and rear caps connect the powertrain and suspension ("roots") firmly to the "tree". Energy Four modular and self-contained fuel cells power the hydraulic motors attached to each wheel. New water-based hydraulic fluid is used. The hydrogen tank is found in an ideal central location for both safety and structural purposes, becoming this way the literal and metaphorical "heart" of the vehicle. FOOTPRINT Active Tread TM tires provide optimum low resistance when driving on the highway while still allowing good off-road progress as their shape changes, adapting to and protecting the soil. Link to Full Article @ Automobile Online

Audi Dynamic Space Frame By the Manufacturer Audi Design team contributors: Hans Chou, Toby Gillies, Tony Liu, Sabine Lapine, Jae Min, Heather Shaw, Mattijs van Tuijl. DCC Design Strategy and Communications: Nathan Barbour, Sean Conniff, Ian Hilton. Interns: Zac Atwell, Urlich Bauer, Carey Lyn, Richard Overcash. DCC Audi's answer to the proposed vehicle mandate of 2015 would be to utilize a concept similar to the rapid prototyping method of manufacturing using advanced materials. This method of building each vehicle would not only streamline the manufacturing process by integrating currently separate parts and processes, it would also allow an unprecedented level of flexibility and customization. This system would theoretically make expensive "tooling" a thing of the past. This technique would allow us to realize other benefits such as: 1. Integration of all fluid and electrical channels within the frame. 2. Suspension and body components comprised of hollow space filled with fluid that responds to electrical current, which controls the ride. 3. Utilizing a hydraulic fluid drive in place of a traditional driveshaft. 4. Simpler recycling & reusability through "all inclusive" single material dynamic space frame and in certain cases, interior and exterior. The Dynamic Space Frame concept would revolutionize the way cars are designed, produced, and recycled. It would usher in a new era of automobiles which would not only address the aforementioned mandate, but take adaptability and individuality to new levels.This concept left us wanting to contribute in some way other than a conceptual poster. As a result, we purchased domestic wind power from Renewable Energy Choice and had trees planted through Trees for the Future's Global Cooling Program in the hopes of offsetting the resources used for this project. Link to Full Article @ Automobile Online

Acura FCX 2020 Le Mans By the Manufacturer Designed by: Leon Paz, Joe deNatale, and David Cheng The Acura NHR-1 (Nano Hydrogen Racer 1) (aka FCX 2020 Le Mans) is a test bed for new material development and clean energy. By utilizing molecular nanotechnology, compact fuel cell can be made possible thereby making vehicle packaging efficient. New strong, light weight materials can derive from various sources and be 100% recyclable. The hydrogen fuel cell power plant in this application tests its performance in the most grueling endurance race in the world. It’s a notion of Acura’s commitment to cleaner environment. Link to Full Article @ Automobile Online

Well, yeah...

Clicky The truth is out now.

I missed that forum. The Flash is just classic, man. Good times

Agreed. The last Impala s/c SS in all-black with the sport appearance package was a mean looking car.

Yes, in order for the prize to be sent to you. We will be modifying some of the prizes in the coming year. Yes, please try to resize your entry as close as you can to 800x600.

That's an awesome photo. Love Johnny Cash, love that song.

I heard the G85 package had the Series III Ecotec. Sweet ride, man. Throw on some bottles of you and waste some ricers.