Daihatsu Move 2011 Rear Muffler [3922500] on 2040-parts.com

Toyota unveils FT-1 concept at 2014 Detroit Motor Show

There’s nothing quite like a surprise unveiling at a motor show, and the Toyota FT-1 just uncovered at Detroit is exactly that. It’s Toyota’s Calty design studio’s attempt at creating the ultimate sports car. And it looks fantastic.

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.

BMW ‘Jump for Joy’ Video – the Audi dig.

BMW's latest Jump for Joy Video We’re still not too sure about BMW’s ‘Joy’ campaign. I know we all have to love fluffy bunnies and have nightmares about climate change, but can’t we leave that to car makers like Reva or even Tesla? Do BMW – The Ultimate Driving Machines – have to go the ‘Green Guru’ route?