16" Factory Alloy Rim - Nissan Altima / 2002 2003 2004 / With Center Cap on 2040-parts.com

Concept Car of the Week: Honda Kiwami (2003)

As part of Honda's exploration into new, clean-performing technologies, the Kiwami concept was created to test public acceptance of the idea of a large, fuel cell-powered luxury sedan.  Unveiled in 2003, the simple yet striking design seemed like a Japanese twist on the Renault Vel Satis concept, which shared a similar wedge profile, wide stance and minimalist approach.  However, the Kiwami found its own interpretation of modern luxury, expressed through elegantly integrated technology rather than with crystal champagne glasses.  Up front, a full-width LED strip headlamp sat flush with the flat bonnet and the rectangular bumper to create a design of primitive beauty.  Further examples of the same simple Japanese aesthetic are found around the car, including the uncluttered body panels and a full-width tail-lamp graphic that matched the front theme.  The dramatic proportions of the interior were closely related to the package of the hydrogen power plant. Unlike other manufacturers at the time, Honda engineers did not create a 'skateboard' fuel cell chassis below the cabin. Instead, a sideways H-shaped layout for the control unit, ultracapacitor, fuel cell stack, hydrogen storage and other components was used, helping to create a lower center of gravity.

New car looms from McLaren F1-creator

By Phil McNamara Motor Industry 13 June 2007 10:18 Gordon Murray is set to finally realise his dream of creating a highly efficient, radical car for mass production. The mastermind behind the F1 supercar left McLaren Cars a couple of years ago, and has now secured the funding to set up on his own. Gordon Murray Design Limited – a design, prototyping and development company – will be launched on 4 July.

Future products: Infiniti adds models at top, bottom of lineup

In an effort to broaden its product coverage, Infiniti will launch a more expensive model and a less expensive one. The brand also will get two alternative powertrain technologies next year. G25: The luxury marque's entry-level sedan will go on sale this month in a bid to reach deeper into the near-luxury segment.