Mercedes-Benz Viano Vision Pearl Concept

We first reported on Mercedes-Benz's Frankfurt auto show-bound Viano Vision Pearl Concept just last week, but since then, the German automaker has released a slew of new photos detailing the luxury people carrier.

But for those that simply want the skinny on the design concept, Mercedes-Benz crafted a deluxe passenger van out of its Viano model with most changes taking place inside.
These include a full leather treatment in a two-tone white and gray color theme, wood flooring and matching side trim, brushed aluminium accents and a bespoke Bang & Olufsen sound system.
On the outside, there are some modest touches such as the unique "magno pearl grey” and a revised front end featuring LED daytime running lamps.

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BMW i8 Concept

BMW's showdown continues with the presentation of its i8 Concept, a plug-in hybrid sports coupe that joins the i3 pure-electric hatchback to form the first models of the Bavarian firm's i sub-brand.

The i8 Concept is a further development of the 2009 Vision Efficient Dynamics study and it opens the way for a production model, which is scheduled to arrive in showrooms in 2013.

The sportiest member of the i series models combines the modified electric drive system from the i3 Concept, but this time fitted over its front axle instead of the rear, with a high-performance, 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine (in place of the Vision ED's diesel unit) developing 220HP (164kW) and 300 Nm (221 lb.ft) at the rear.

The gasoline unit drives the rear wheels through a dual clutch transmission, while the electric motor uses a twin-speed transmission to motivate the front wheels.

Working in tandem, the two drive systems produce a combined output of 349-horses and 550Nm (405.6 lb.ft) of peak torque offering coupe model a 0-100km/h (62mph) acceleration time of just 4.6 seconds and an electronically governed top speed of 250km/h (155mph).

At the same time, BMW says the i8 returns an impressive combined fuel economy in the European cycle of 2.7 liters per 100km (approx. 87mpg US or 104mpg UK).

The i8's electric motor is fed by a large lithium-ion battery, which can be fully charged from a domestic power supply in 1 hour and 45 minutes, offering a pure electric driving range of up to 35 km (approx. 20 miles).
BMW says the positioning of the electric motor and engine over their respective axles result in an optimum 50/50 weight distribution, while the extensive use of lightweight materials including aluminum on the chassis and CFRP (carbonfibre reinforced plastic) on the body, help keep the weight down to 1,480kg or 3,262 pounds.
The i8 is a 2+2 seater and measures 4,632mm long, 1,280 mm tall and 1,955 wide. The concept model will make its public debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this fall.

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Long-Wheelbase Porsche Panamera Confirmed for Launch in 2012

The story about Porsche developing a long-wheelbase version of its Panamera sedan has been circulating around the grapevine for quite some time now, but today, Car Magazine reported that inside sources not only confirmed but also revealed that the car will launch in early 2012.
The unnamed sources stated that the Panamera LWB will gain a 150mm (5.9-inches) wheelbase extension for a total length of 3,070mm (120.8-inches). The additional space is said to benefit the rear passengers.
Aside from the very un-Porsche limo, it is also reported that the Panamera will receive its first facelift in 2013, and that the German sports carmaker is contemplating the development of a smaller sedan model, allegedly called Pajun (we guess the name is inspired by the Cajun small SUV), to slot right under the company's full size sedan model.
And yes, we're still talking about Porsche, the famous German company from Stuttgart that was once known and praised by enthusiasts only for its thoroughbred sports cars.

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