BMW once again asserts its position as the world leader in automotive driver assistance systems and mobility services with its new 2011 BMW Vision ConnectedDrive. This two-seater roadster incorporates advanced technology and design concepts heightening the distinctive BMW driving pleasure.

Connectivity is the technology of the future and it is well integrated into the BMW Vision ConnectedDrive. The technology used to enhance the connectivity between the vehicle, the driver, the passengers and the environment is astounding. For example, the enhanced Heads-up Display delivers a three dimensional display of the actual view of the road ahead. The passenger can also act as a co-pilot analyzing a route via a passenger information display system and forwarding the information directly to the driver instrument panel. The navigation system is online and information is transmitted and retrieved via antennas.

The exterior design of this concept vehicle incorporates the distinguishable BMW design language. The vehicle appears to be accelerating even at a standstill position. The doors to the BMW Vision ConnectedDrive slide directly into the body allowing the vehicle to be driven even with its doors open.

BMW has excellently combined in-car technology, comfort and safety into this vehicle. Ultimate driving pleasure is realized with the 2011 BMW Vision ConnectedDrive.

Scheduled to launch fall this year is the Dodge Charger SRT8. Its new 6.4-liter HEMI V8 engine provides an estimated 465 horsepower and 465 lb-ft. of torque enabling it to reach an estimated top speed of 175mph. It is also said to have improved fuel economy. The specific horsepower, torque and fuel economy figures are going to be announced before the actual launching.

The 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 sports a new aggressive high performance look. The front and rear fascias and the rear spoiler are exclusive to the SRT8 making it distinguishable from its predecessors.

The interior of the SRT8 also has a high performance look combined with world class accommodations. The leather wrapped steering wheel is also exclusive to the SRT. The front seats are designed to grip the driver and passenger during any driving situation.

The SRT8 features a high performance audio surround sound system from Harmon/Kardmon. The 19” speakers deliver 900watts of power and the system is controlled via a large 8.4” touch screen display.

Safety and security is also well incorporated in the SRT8. Features like Keyless Enter-N-Go, Collision Warning, Blind Spot Monitoring and adaptive cruise control are just some of the features that keep the driver and passengers of the SRT8 safe and secure.

Just how energy efficient can tomorrow’s cars be? Volkswagen answers this question with their new XL1. This hybrid vehicle has a fuel consumption of 1L/100 kilometers making it the most fuel efficient hybrid electric / internal combustion engine combination car.

The XL1 may be highly energy efficient but its design still makes it practical for day to day use. The design is also aerodynamic and stylish. Standing at only 1,156mm tall, the XL1 is only as high as the Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder. The wing type doors give it a sportier look and still provides a large entry and exit space because they extend far into the roof.

One of the reasons why the XL1 is so fuel efficient is because it has a total weight of only 795kgs. The weight of the car is broken down as follows: 227kg for the entire drive unit; 153 kg for the running gear; 80 kg for the equipment; 105 kg for the electrical system and 230 kg for the body, wing doors and front wind screen.

The XL1 may be extremely fuel efficient, yet performance was not sacrificed. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 11.9 seconds and it has a top speed of 160 kmh. The Volkswagen XL1 is indeed the most efficient car in the world.

The world ice speed record was shattered on 15 February 2011 in Oulu, Finland by rally champion Juha Kankkunen. Achieving a top speed of 205.48 mph, Kankkunen broke his previous world record of 199.83 mph set in 2007 at the same location.

Kankkunen shattered the previous world record that he also set, in a 12 cylinder, 6 liter Continental Supersport Convertible running on E85 bio-ethanol. The fuel selection was largely due to Bentley’s commitment for a cleaner environment and sustainable fuel sources.

Juha Kankkunen managed to overcome the perilous endeavor with the help of Bentley engineers and his own experienced team. Kankunnen and the team faced temperatures of minus 30 degrees, sudden snow blizzards and dangerous crosswinds to set the new world record on a 16.5 km track sitting on 70 centimeters of sea ice.

Only minimum modifications were made on the Continental Supersport Convertible. The team added a rear bumper mounted parachute and a fully welded heavy duty safety roll-cage to ensure the safety of Kankkunen in emergency situations. The run was done on Pirelli SottoZero II 275/40R20 winter tires.

Bentley will only offer a limited edition of 100 units of this extreme model Continental. The car will be launched at the Geneva Motor Show on the 1st of March.

The Royal College of Arts in London recently held a design project sponsored by Citroen. Second year MA students were asked to design an ultra compact model that would establish a unique futuristic Citroen e-vehicle. Chosen as the best overall design was Heikki Juvonen’s E-3POD Antistatic.

The E-3POD is a unique 3-wheeled battery powered single-seat vehicle. Its compact yet aerodynamic design minimizes the size of the battery that is required to power the vehicle. This stylish design has two small wheels in the front with the driver sitting inside a larger wheel at the rear. The large wheel also acts as a structural support making the vehicle light-weight and cost efficient. Sound insulation is no longer required because of the silent electric engine. The scratch resistant plastic canopy provides some comfortable personal space and protects the driver from outside elements.

Designed for urban use, the E-3POD is meant to be an innovative means of transportation. Positioned between a bicycle and a car, it is ideal for students commuting to school or going on short to medium distance trips. Its compact size enables it to be parked in smaller spaces making it a welcomed addition to the current means of transportation.