Honda 3R-C concept

Honda 3R-C concept
Honda's new 3R-C concept, a single seat battery-powered electric vehicle, is set to make its world debut at the Geneva motor show next week. It will take center stage at the stand alongside the EV-N show car, U3-X electric personal mobility vehicle and the FCX Clarity, the Japanese automaker's fuel-cell electric vehicle.

Created by European designers working at Honda's Research and Design facility in Milan, the three-wheeled 3R-C concept envisions a future minimal urban transport vehicle for one person. The battery electric drivetrain is mounted low in the three wheeled chassis, keeping the center of gravity low and improving stability.

With a clear canopy that doubles as a protective windsheild and covers the driver's seat while the vehicle is parked, the 3R-C's designers also created a flexible cover that surrounds the upper torso to reduce exposure and improve comfort. The 3R-C also features a 'safety shell' seat with high sides - to reduce the threat from side impact - and a lockable storage area ahead of the driver.

Related Article:

Design Review: Honda EV-N concept

Review By cardesignnews

Read more

Test Drive: 2010 Nissan Altima 3.5 SR

By: Josh Sadlier , Associate Editor www.edmunds.com

Vehicle Tested: 2010 Nissan Altima 3.5 SR 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
Pros: Smooth and powerful V6, excellent CVT, sporty handling, high-quality interior, impressive electronics.
Cons: Desirable options are clustered in pricey packages, low rear-seat cushion penalizes longer legs.

So, first things first — don't let the new name fool you. The 2010 Nissan Altima 3.5 SR is basically the same as the outgoing sport-tuned 3.5 SE model, albeit with the refreshed styling and technology bits common to all 2010 Altimas. But at the same time, don't let this model's advancing years put you off. The 3.5 SE was the sports car of family sedans when it debuted for 2002, and the 3.5 SR carries on that tradition, even as the current-generation Altima enters its fourth year of production.

Of course, a few challengers have appeared in the intervening years. The Ford Fusion Sport provides similar power and handling. The Mazda 6 combines entertaining athleticism with American-size dimensions. The Subaru Legacy boasts all-wheel drive and a capable chassis. But with the exception of the manual-transmission-onlyLegacy GT, there's still no family hauler that's as gratifying to drive as the taut and tossable Altima 3.5 SR.

Yet there's much more to this Nissan's appeal than its appetite for tight corners. The powertrain is a revelation, a blissful marriage of broad-shouldered V6 thrust and seamless CVT (continuously variable transmission) oversight. The interior materials are Infiniti-grade — few cars in this class can compete. And the technology is top-notch, including updated optional navigation and sound systems with real-time traffic and Bluetooth streaming audio.

There are still nits to pick with the Altima 3.5 SR. The relatively low rear-seat cushion, for example, forces longer-legged passengers to ride with their knees in the air. Also, Nissan makes you pay through the nose for desirable option packages. But if you appreciate the Altima's sporting character, these burdens will be easy to bear. The 2010 Nissan Altima 3.5 SR is proof positive that family-minded consumers still have the option of enjoying the drive.

Photos

View More Photos

• 

  Enlarge Photo

  The 2010 Nissan Altima receives a few styling tweaks, including a new hood and grille. Only Altima aficionados will likely notice them.
  (photo by: Scott Jacobs)

• 

  Enlarge Photo

  "Elegant simplicity" is the name of the Altima's interior game. Materials are top-notch, though the silvery plastic trim looks a bit odd.
  (photo by: Scott Jacobs)

• 

  Enlarge Photo

  The current-generation Altima's looks have always been in keeping with its driving character: sharp and sporty.
  (photo by: Scott Jacobs)

Performance

The 2010 Nissan Altima 3.5 SR is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 rated at 270 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The CVT is now mandatory, as the formerly available six-speed manual has been discontinued for 2010. EPA fuel economy estimates are 20 mpg city/27 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined. At the test track, our Altima hit 60 mph in 6.8 seconds en route to a 14.8-second quarter-mile at 97.5 mph — healthy numbers for a V6-powered family sedan. Brake testing returned a respectable stopping distance of 123 feet from 60 mph.

The 3.5 SR's powertrain is quite simply one of the best in the business. A CVT doesn't have gears, so there's none of the occasional thumping and lurching while the right cog is selected. Instead, opening the throttle in this Altima sends the engine speed zinging up to 4,000 rpm — the beginning of the V6's sweet spot — at which point it slowly progresses toward the 6,500-rpm redline.

Nissan also provides a manual mode with six simulated gears, but we usually just left it in Drive and let this preternaturally smooth transmission work its magic. As for the VQ-Series V6, it pulls hard and sounds great here, with none of the coarseness that plagues the 370Z's 3.7-liter version.

On our slalom course, the Altima 3.5 SR's sport-tuned suspension contributed to an average speed of 66.1 mph, trailing only the gonzo manual-only Legacy GT (67.7 mph) and the Mazda 6 s Grand Touring (66.4 mph) in this segment. In the real world, the Nissan makes an even better showing.

Unlike the supersized Mazda, the 2010 Nissan Altima evokes a bygone era when family four-doors were compact enough to feel nimble. It tackles tight corners with sport-sedanlike grace, and its steering is extraordinarily tight and responsive. Only advanced (or foolhardy) drivers will encounter the understeer that surfaces as the 3.5 SR's limits approach.

Comfort

The Altima 3.5 SR's cabin is hushed at highway speeds, but there's no doubt that the sporty suspension has an effect on the car's ride quality. Those looking forCamry-style cushioning over broken pavement should head straight for their local Toyota dealers. Still, this Altima's suspension is by no means harsh; it just provides less isolation from the road below, a trait that the target audience actually might appreciate. The rival we're most reminded of in this respect is the Honda Accord, though it lacks the 3.5 SR's overt athleticism.

The Altima's thin-rimmed leather-wrapped steering wheel fit our hands nicely, and we appreciated the substantial armrest padding all around. Our leather-trimmed tester's front seats provided good long-haul support, but their lateral bolstering was curiously conservative given the Altima's impressive performance envelope. As noted, the rear-seat cushion is mounted low, which may provoke complaints from lanky passengers. Average-size rear riders will have no gripes, however.

Function

The Altima's primary gauges are crystal-clear, and the control stalks on the steering column move through their detents with uncommon refinement. Our 2010 Nissan Altima had the optional touchscreen navigation system, which proved easy to use and delivered sharp graphics to boot. This system includes 9.3 gigabytes of music storage and Bluetooth audio streaming for the digital generation. The 6.5-inch display also manages the iPod interface (part of the pricey Premium package), which our editors applauded for its straightforwardness.

The Bose stereo, which also comes with the Premium package, is one of the better-sounding factory systems to bear the audio company's name (we've been less impressed with its setups in Mazda's lineup). In the 3.5 SR, the Bose system delivers crisp highs and smooth lows. Don't turn it up too loud, though — the rear deck is rattle-prone even with the bass on its neutral setting, an issue we've noticed on other Altimas of this generation.

In real-world usability testing, the Altima's average-size 15.3-cubic-foot trunk made quick work of our standard golf bag and suitcase, and our rear-facing child seat slipped easily into the backseat.

Design/Fit and Finish

The Altima received a mild exterior styling refresh for 2010, and our staff is split on whether it's an improvement. In any case, the current Altima has always been a good-looking car, and nothing about the new tweaks changes that.

Inside, the Altima continues to boast segment-topping sophistication, from the extensive use of rich soft-touch materials to the classy and restrained aesthetic. Like the related Murano SUV's interior, this one wouldn't look out of place in an Infiniti. Build quality on our test car was without fault.

Who Should Consider This Vehicle

The 2010 Nissan Altima 3.5 SR is a top choice for family-sedan shoppers who like to drive but don't want to sacrifice the practicality and comfort for which this segment is known. If the Camry's appliancelike ethos isn't for you, Nissan has the antidote.

The manufacturer provided Edmunds this vehicle for the purpose of evaluation.

Model Year2010
MakeNissan
ModelAltima
Style3.5 SR 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl CVT)
Base Price$25,240
Price as Tested$31,945
Options on Test VehiclePremium Package ($2,380 -- includes leather upholstery and trim, driver power lumbar, heated front seats, Bluetooth phone connectivity, Bose audio, XM Satellite Radio, iPod/USB port, auto-dimming rearview mirror, rear air vents); Sport Package ($2,370 -- includes rear spoiler, foglights, xenon headlamps, dual-zone automatic climate control, sunroof); Technology Package ($1,780 -- includes navigation system, Bluetooth streaming audio, DVD player, VTR jack); Floor and Trunk Mat Set ($175).
Drive TypeFront-wheel drive
Transmission TypeContinuously variable
Transmission and Axle Ratio (x:1)N/A
Engine TypeV6
Displacement (cc / cu-in)3,498cc (213 cu-in)
Block/Head MaterialAluminum
ValvetrainDouble overhead camshaft
Compression Ratio10.3
Redline (rpm)6,500
Horsepower (hp @ rpm)270 @ 6,000
Torque (lb-ft @ rpm)258 @ 4,400
Brake Type (front)Ventilated disc
Brake Type (rear)Disc
Steering SystemSpeed-proportional power steering
Steering Ratio16.2:1
Suspension Type (front)MacPherson strut
Suspension Type (rear)Multilink
Tire Size (front)P215/55R17 V
Tire Size (rear)P215/55R17 V
Tire BrandBridgestone
Tire ModelTuranza EL 400
Tire TypeAll-season
Wheel Size17-by-7.5 inches front and rear
Wheel Material (front/rear)Alloy
Manufacturer Curb Weight (lb)3,357
Curb Weight As Tested (lb)3,412
Weight Distribution, F/R (%)62.1
Recommended FuelRegular unleaded
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)20.0
EPA Fuel Economy (mpg)20 city/27 highway
Edmunds Observed (mpg)N/A
Testing Conditions

Temperature (Fahrenheit)66.5
Humidity29%
Elevation (ft)1,121
Wind2.75 C
Performance

0 - 30 (sec)3.1
0 - 45 (sec)4.8
0 - 60 (sec)6.8
0 - 75 (sec)9.4
1/4 Mile (sec @ mph)14.8 @ 97.5
0-60 with 1-ft Rollout (sec)6.5
30 - 0 (ft)31
60 - 0 (ft)123
Braking RatingGood
Slalom (mph)66.1
Skid Pad Leteral acceleration (g)0.81
Handling RatingVery Good
Db @ Idle43.9
Db @ Full Throttle74.9
Db @ 70 mph Cruise67.0
Tester Comments

Acceleration CommentsDoesn't roast tires like previous Altimas with conventional automatics, so launches are consistent. CVT ramps up to 6,250 rpm by 50 mph and maintains throughout quarter-mile. Power seems to come on at 4,000 rpm. No torque steer at full throttle. Using Manual mode inserts artificial "shifts" and makes acceleration runs slower.
Braking CommentsNoisy tires and steep jump-in from pedal. Faded only slightly in distance, though, and pedal remained firm. Lots of odor by last stop.
Handling CommentsSkid pad: Understeers on the limit but can be coaxed back online by breathing off the throttle -- which is exactly what stability control does when on. Steering gets rather heavy. Slalom: Nicely tuned front-drive manners, meaning you can use throttle to adjust yaw (i.e., stab it on the straight bits and lift for rotation). Steering is responsive but heavy. ESP on is very intrusive with front brake applications.
Specifications

Length (in)190.7
Width (in)70.7
Height (in)57.9
Wheelbase (in)109.3
Front Track (in)60.9
Rear Track (in)60.8
Turning Circle (ft)37.4
Legroom, front (in)44.1
Legroom, rear (in)35.8
Headroom, front (in)40.6
Headroom, rear (in)36.8
Shoulder Room, front (in)55.7
Shoulder Room, rear (in)55.5
Maximum Seating Capacity5
Cargo Volume (cu-ft)15.3
Warranty

Bumper-to-Bumper3 years/36,000 miles
Power Train5 years/60,000 miles
Corrosion5 years/Unlimited miles
Roadside Assistance3 years/36,000 miles
Scheduled MaintenanceNot available
Safety

Front AirbagsStandard
Side AirbagsStandard dual front
Head AirbagsStandard front and rear
Knee AirbagsNot available
Antilock BrakesFour-wheel ABS
Electronic Brake EnhancementsElectronic brakeforce distribution
Traction ControlStandard
Stability ControlStandard
Tire Pressure Monitoring SystemTire-pressure monitoring
Emergency Assistance SystemNot available
NHTSA Crash Test Driver5 stars
NHTSA Crash Test Passenger5 stars
NHTSA Crash Test Side FrontNot tested
NHTSA Crash Test Side RearNot tested
NHTSA Rollover4 stars
IIHS OffsetNot tested

Read more

Miko's high performance material with an ecological edge

Click for larger images

Unveiled at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show: the Cadillac CTS-V Coupe with saffron-colored microfiber Dinamica material on seat inserts and door panels

Miko produces more than 600,000 meters of Dinamica every year and adapts the product for markets including automotive, aviation and marine

Car makers rely on Dinamica Auto to add a sporty yet elegant look to their vehicle interiors – such as that achieved for the Ford Focus RS (above)

Miko's Dinamica material can be customized with bespoke designs that include laser effects, embossing and perforation

Recaro seat stitch detail in Dinamica Auto mibrofiber material

Italian company Miko specializes in the development and production of Dinamica, a high quality ecological microfiber that can be used for anything from car door panels or upholstery to fashion accessories. The faux suede material is produced from a combination of recycled polyester and polyurethane fibers, and is also 100 percent recyclable at the end of its lifecycle.

A traditionally conservative automotive industry looks set to become more adventurous in its use of the color spectrum for car interiors

Miko's eco-friendly products use manufacturing and production methods based on water

Advantages of the process include softness, elasticity and resistance in the microfibers

Lorenzo Terraneo, CEO of Miko, says: "Our priority has always been to invest in the research and development of recycled and eco-compatible materials with special characteristics that go far beyond existing qualitative standards.

It is a testament to Terraneo's commitment that his company achieved its early aspirations and eco credentials long before concern for the environment and the reduction of carbon emissions was high on the political agenda or prevalent in the public conscience.

Established in 1997 in Gorizia in north eastern Italy, Miko combines its scientific research and technology with Japanese industrial giant Asahi Kasei – a partner and minority shareholder. Asahi Kasei takes care of the recycling process and water-based manufacturing cycle and is Miko's main supplier of raw material. Miko subsequently creates and develops the Dinamica ecological microfiber in its own state-of-the-art R&D laboratory.

Initially, recycled plastic may not seem a likely material to provide softness, comfort and quality. Yet, the unique characteristics of Dinamica have long been endorsed by international luxury brands including Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Armani.

And it's not just established fashion houses that recognize the technical qualities and aesthetic features of Miko's microfiber material. The company produces over 600,000 meters of Dinamica every year and is able to adapt the product to its various markets which also include automotive, furniture upholstery, aviation, marine, outdoor and medical. It results in an average turnover of 10-12 million Euros (US$13-17 million) a year for the company.

Terraneo has focused on developing materials for the automotive sector since 2002 and now half the company's turnover is attributable to this market with its tailored products Dinamica Auto and Dinamica Auto Stretch.

Leading car manufacturers have relied on the material to add a luxury feel and elegant look to their vehicle interiors. Dinamica Auto is usually applied to seats and backrests, and Dinamica Auto Stretch, with increased stretchability, proves ideal for areas such as door panels, pillars and roof lining. The fabric also has an anti-slip grip quality and can therefore be used on steering wheels, gear shifts and hand brakes.

At the 2010 Detroit Auto Show, the new Cadillac CTS-V Coupe was sporting Dinamica – in a bright saffron color – on its seat inserts and door panels. And Miko's microfiber material can also be seen in the interiors of the current BMW 7 series, Ford Focus RS, Mercedes E Class, Citroën C4 Picasso, and VW's Golf R and Scirocco R.

Supercars also receive the treatment: the limited edition Nobel M600 launched last year features Dinamica. "Nobel chose our material," says Terraneo, "because it was really keen to develop a supercar that featured green technology."

But Terraneo has noticed a shift in demand for Dinamica. "Originally, this type of suede material was typically being ordered for big sedans from car makers such as Mercedes, Audi or BMW. But there's now an increasing tendency by car makers to add it to the interiors of small cars," he explains. "They're responding to a growing demand by the market for inexpensive small cars... but featuring luxury interiors."

Dinamica is extremely strong at critical points, such as seat edges and seams, and it also demonstrates remarkable lightfastness. It is highly wear-resistant and the microfibers are totally pilling-free (so even after extensive use, unsightly small bobbles don't build up on the fabric). The microfiber provides softness, elasticity and breathability, and because it is waterproof, it also proves resistant to stains.

Dinamica is highly wear-resistant and the microfibers are totally pilling-free. Click for larger images

The interior of the VW Golf R features Dinamica Auto microfiber material

Sunlight-resistant dyes ensure the colored fabric does not fade over time

The microfiber provides breathability, and because it is waterproof, it also proves resistant to soiling and staining

The advanced technology used during the textile's production process enables it to be made flame-retardant without applying resins to its underside. As well as being up to 100 percent eco-compatible, the material complies with automotive legislation and standards requirements both inside and outside of Europe.

The material complies with automotive legislation and standards requirements both inside and outside of Europe

Miko only employs non-toxic production methods and the company has received Oeko Tex Standard 100 certification to confirm that no harmful elements have been used in the finished Dinamica product. The polyester is immersed in a water-based polyurethane bath without the use of solvents, unlike traditional processes for separating microfibers from a polyester base.

Using recycled polyester – instead of regular polyester which is made with gas or petroleum – also means the impact on the environment is greatly decreased. Miko has calculated that its processes save an estimated 60-70 percent on energy consumption, and reduce the load of CO2 emissions on the planet by 60 percent. The water used during the dyeing and finishing processes is also delivered back to the environment.

Miko's modern dyeworks enables Dinamica to be made available in the full spectrum of colors covering all degrees of the color scale including light and pastel shades with sunlight-resistant dyes that do not fade over time. If requested, Miko is also able to customize the microfiber material with bespoke designs (laser, embossing and perforation) and personal colors for a tailor-made product for the customer.

"Generally, the automotive industry has been very conservative with its use of color, with black, beige and grey consistently being the firm favorites," comments Terraneo. "Now, however, there is a tendency to develop other colors, often in combination with the leather inside the vehicle," he explains. "It depends on the OEM though. While some are prepared to do more development of colors or use perforation to give some texture on the fabric, or a laser effect, others remain more conservative and require just the plain effect of the suede."

Apart from bespoke developments, Terraneo says that the manufactured width of Dinamica Auto Stretch is being increased so there will be less wastage for car makers and cost efficiency will be maximized for the industry.

And the developments don't stop there. Miko is currently assessing the environmental impact of materials and energy use at all the different stages in the lifecycle of Dinamica – from raw material acquisition, manufacture, distribution, use, and disposal – and is looking to develop the means to maximize eco responsibility throughout the lifecycle of all its products.

So which new cars will be featuring Dinamica in the future? Terraneo remains tight-lipped about imminent unveils, but the results of new projects with both PSA and Jaguar/Land Rover are anticipated at the Geneva and Paris motor shows this year, while forthcoming interiors incorporating Dinamica look set to be underway with Honda and Opel.

Related Website:
www.dinamicamiko.com

Car Design News will be hosting a webinar presented by Lorenzo Terraneo, CEO of Miko. The session will cover the application of Dinamica Auto materials on seating areas, door panels and roof lining, as well as on steering wheels, gear shifts and parking brakes.

Register now to participate in the live webinar entitled: 'Driving the Green Way: the First Ecological microfiber for Automotive interiors' taking place on 31 March 2010, at 15:00 GMT.

Review By cardesignnews

Read more

Mercedes-Benz F800 Style concept

Mercedes-Benz will unveil the F800 Style concept at Geneva next month. A reinterpretation of the typical Mercedes design idiom, the concept points towards the future design direction for the Stuttgart-based automaker and is also speculated to preview the next generation CLS.

Created through close international cooperation between the technical research and advanced engineering departments and the advanced design studios in Sindelfingen, Germany, and Como, Italy, the F800 research vehicle is a technological showcase as well as an aesthetic study. Powered by a plug-in hybrid or a fuel-cell electric drivetrain, the concept measures 4750mm in length, is 1938mm wide and 1430mm tall. It has a 2924mm-long wheelbase.

The interior, crafted at Mercedes' Advanced Design Studio in Como, Italy, features an array of lightweight materials of contrasting tactility. Natural wood surfaces and Alcantara have been used throughout to create a luxurious, cosseting environment while a magnesium shell envelops the seats. Fine netting is stretched across a carbon fiber laminate seatback.

Photo Gallery: Mercedes F800 concept

Review By cardesignnews

Read more

Kia Optima preview (w/ Gallery)

These are the first images of the next generation Kia Optima/Magentis, which will make its public debut at the 2010 New York Auto Show in April.

The new mid-size sedan's design marks a step-change for the Korean automaker. Longer, lower and wider than the previous model, the new car features a significantly longer wheelbase, which is claimed to offer considerably more space for both people and luggage.

The new Optima will go on sale in the US and other non-European markets from autumn 2010. Sales of the European-spec Magentis are expected to begin in spring 2011.

Photo Gallery: Kia Magentis

Review By cardesignnews

Read more

Umea Olme Spyder project

by Eric Gallina www.cardesignnews.com

sketch of the Olme Spyder, a one-off prototype vehicle designed by first year students at Umea Insitute of Design. Click for larger images

A CAD rendering of the Olme Spyder

Students show their scale models

Concept sketches of the exterior and interior

While Swedish automaker Saab was going through tumultuous times and Geely was in the process of buying Volvo from Ford, first year MA students in Transportation Design at Sweden's Umea Institute of Design were busy creating a one-off roadster for an independent car maker: the Olme Spyder. Created in collaboration with Ove Bengtsson, an engineer with a personal passion for building his own vehicles, the students were asked to design their own interpretation of a progressive and innovative roadster, developing the concept from a sketch into a full-scale model.

Milling the Olme Spyder at Umea

Ove Bengtsson looks over a student's model

The taping process

Students work on refining a design

The model in the milling process

Based on an Opel Agila donor car, the concept's 650kg steel monocoque chassis was created by Bengtsson himself to accommodate a mid-mounted engine. It was approved by the Swedish road authority in June 2009. Bengtsson then contacted Umea's Transportation Design program director Demian Horst, and the students began work on creating the interior and exterior designs for the two-seat open vehicle over the course term, all while considering Bengtsson's basic needs for the roadster.

The project was divided into research, ideation, concept selection, form development, design refinement, reverse engineering, full-scale check and presentation phases and took the nine students on the first year of the Transportation Design program approximately 10 weeks to complete. They began with a general background research on existing two-seaters - and the basic attributes found in these vehicles - and were encouraged to focus on the strongest and the weakest aspects of these conceptual and production models.

After the short research phase, each student prepared an individual brief including the attributes of the car they planned to develop. In the individual ideation phase each student tried to create as many alternatives as they could to provide different options of what they believed a modern speedster should be. During in the ideation phase the technical specifications of the vehicle were presented to the students and they were challenged to translate important features from their design ideas into feasible solutions that retained most of the concept's originally intended character.

Bengtsson provided the university with a full-scale wooden mock-up of the chassis and reviews and tests were conduced based on this mock-up. The technical package was also available in digital form as underlay for the tape drawing phase and was also utilized as the solid core for the clay scale models, challenging the students during the whole process to respect hard points and basic legal requirements.

The tutors on the course included main tutor Lars Falk, chief strategic designer for Volvo Cars; Tony Catignani, former Saab designer; Anders Gunnarson, chief exterior designer for Volvo Cars; and clay modeling tutor Simon Thompson. Sigun Bergstedt (Dacat AB) provided support for Color & Trim. The tutors stressed attention to user experience, progressive design solutions, feasibility aspects, ergonomics and vehicle design workflow practice as the main goals in this project.

The resulting, one-off street legal car will be shown at the Custom Motor Show in Jönköping in April, the largest car and motorbike fair in Scandinavia.

Related Article:
Umea Institute of Design degree show 2009

Read more