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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.

McLaren announces markets for MP4-12C

McLaren announced 35 markets where it will sell the Formula-One-inspired MP4-12C on Friday, including New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and Toronto. Ten markets in the North America will sell the ultra-light, high-performance sports car starting in the spring of 2011. Other global markets include London, Monaco, Paris, Frankfurt, Kuwait and Johannesburg.

BMW introduces X4 Sports Activity Coupe

BMW confirmed the rumored new X4 Sports Activity Coupe, sort of a smaller BMW X6. According to BMW, the X4, like the X6, combines the performance and capability of a sports-activity vehicle with coupe styling. U.S.