Spring is fast approaching with the arrival of the 80th annual Geneva International Motor Show which focuses on new design concepts and evolving technology.
The show, in the halls of the Geneva Palexo from now through Sunday, is one of the oldest in the world. Organizers expect it will draw between 650,000 and 700,000 visitors by conclusion of the 11-day event.
It offers some 100 World and European premieres in the private vehicle sector, with a distinct trend toward more ecologically-friendly automobiles.
For example, there are 16 premiere automobiles representing electric or alternately- powered technology. There is a Green Pavilion where “concept” cars reflect visions of the future. Suppliers, equipment specialists, and other exhibitors also are offering some 40 premieres.
Luc Argand, president of the Geneva International Motor Show, said the event provides visitors and the media with access to all major automobile manufacturers from throughout the world. “This is an important sign of confidence following the financial crisis that has impacted the global economy,” he said.
Organizers say “250 exhibitors from 30 countries” will be present, and they will cover the 78,000 square meters of available exhibition space.
Five exhibitors are presenting for the first time, including Bufori Motor Car Co. from Malaysia, and there is return of the venerable maque Hispano-Suiza.
Several of the previewed World Premieres included the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, the Audi 1, the Mini Countryman, the new Opel Meriva, the Porsche Cayenne, the Renault Wind, and the new generation of Sharan and Touareg from VW. Bentley, Citroen, Fiat, Lancia, Peugeot, and Renault have been present for all 80 editions of the Geneva exhibition.
GREEN TECH DRIVES NEW DESIGNS
The Green Pavilion 2010 presents a great diversity of information, technologies, ideas, projects, and concepts. The selection includes a scientific study of transportation via a solar powered vehicle slated to make a round-the-world voyage.
The pavilion also showcases potential directions that the automobile will develop in the future. Fuel cells, combined hybrid and natural gas vehicles, electric, and other concepts are presented. Materials and material design also are part of the big picture this week in Geneva.
Some highlights of the Green Pavilion 2010 include recharging stations of the future. ICARE is demonstrating stations by taking a trip around the world by incorporating solar and wind energy. ICARE will present a spectacular vehicle, which will be used by Marc Muller and his team, to take a voyage of 40,000 kilometers in one year beginning next May.
DOK ING has developed the XD, the first Croatian concept three-seat electric vehicle. Not only is it very attractive with its “gull-wing” doors, but it also is highly efficient with a range of 200-250 kilometers.
A start-up group called iVolt is presenting its concept car called Tazzari-Zero. The Italian company claims the car has an aluminum frame and is exceptionally strong and rigid. The car only weighs 550 kilograms and incorporates a lithium-iron battery. The car is designed for urban commutes and provides highly efficient transportation.
General Motors is presenting its most modern energy efficient fuel cell in the Opel model called HydroGen4. This automobile creates a new standard for fuel cells in the industry and uses hydrogen as a fuel source. Show visitors can test drive the car.
The BMW group is offering a feasibility model for electric powered transportation. The team from Vattenfall is presenting excerpts of the largest worldwide scientific study of electric powered transportation ever. The concept car is called the Mini E.
Students from the State University of Baden-Wurttemberg are presenting an all-electric car concept car called ELMAR. This design uses an electric motor on each wheel and is very lightweight.
Kia is showing its Forte LPI Hybrid. This design incorporates the advantages of directly- injected liquefied natural gas with a hybrid propulsion system. The vehicle on the floor shows how a four-door sedan uses wrap-around design incorporating the headlights and taillight assemblies in that configuration.
The Quaranta from Italdesign Giugiaro uses hybrid technology combined with solar power. This car, designed for longer distances beyond urban driving, is touted for its driving pleasure.
A Swiss company called TEXX is exhibiting its battery management system. The company claims the recharging system is the most efficient in the world.
Another Swiss company called ITU is presenting Green GT, the first electric racing car. Designed by three Swiss visionaries, it uses a carbon fiber chassis. The Quaranta sports car also is set for racing.
Although many of the vehicles presented at Geneva show do not meet U.S. standards, there are many technology concepts that carry over to the U.S. market.
We think it’s essential for our government to work in concert with our manufacturers to help compete in this highly competitive market, where technology and ecology intersect.
This posting is courtesy of TechMan, a contributor who tracks trends in business, industry and technology.
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