The Best Opel Insignia OPC 2011

Benefits are an improved steering feel, reduced steering disturbances due to the high torque and an enhanced feeling in the handling for the driver. The front suspension architecture of the Opel Insignia OPC retains a so called McPherson strut, however the engineers at the Opel Performance Center came up with an evolution called HiPerStrut (for high performance strut). The newly developed mechatronic chassis also receives a new front axle. The already very well performing Insignia chassis was further fine tuned for the OPC variant which ride height has been reduced by 10 mm compared to the Insignia (AWD Sport version).

With this engine performance, the Opel Insignia OPC reaches a top speed of 250 km/h (restricted) and sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in six seconds. The strong torque of 400 Nm ensures abundant pulling power even at lower engine speeds. The Opel Insignia OPC is available with a six-speed manual gearbox. And because sound is so important in the appreciation of an engine, the acoustic specialists worked on the exhaust of the V6 by adopting specific center and rear mufflers. The increase in power was obtained by a special engine development and by reworking the exhaust, significantly reducing the counter pressure.

Derived from the powerful gasoline engine already available on the top-of-the-line Insignia, this version reaches an output of 239 kW/325 hp. The heart of the Opel Insignia OPC is its 2.8 V6 Turbo engine. The high performance version of the Opel Insignia, Car of the Year 2011, was unveiled on May 7, 2011, when the Opel Insignia OPC premiered at the 2011 Barcelona Motor Show, ten years after the launch of the first OPC model (Opel Performance Center).

Interior Opel Insignia OPC 2011

The OPC epitomizes the Insignia experience: dynamic and refined", says Alain Visser, GM Europe Vice President Opel. "The Opel Insignia OPC marks the beginning of a new era for our OPC portfolio; still bold, but also more mature and refined, and more ambitious than ever. The OPC also presents distinctive instrument graphics. When opening the door, the OPC is immediately impressive, from unique Recaro seats to a flat bottomed sporty steering wheel and specific gear knob. The dynamic sportiness of the exterior is also mirrored in the cockpit. New 20-inch lightweight forged wheels (with 255/35 tires) are available as an option. The 19-inch wheels (tires: 245/40) are standard and give the car the stance it deserves. Compared to less powerful versions of the Insignia, the OPC shows a spectacular new front end with two large vertical intakes and a specific rear bumper with dual integrated exhausts. Distinctive looks are a clear statement on dynamic ambitions The top of the line body style dressed in an elegant sports outfit is inspired by the GTC concept car which starred in 2007, but still remains true to the Insignia's design philosophy of sculptural artistry meets German precision.

New Opel Insignia OPC 2011

Our target was to rival the "best of the best", said Hans Demant, Managing Director Adam Opel GmbH. I was personally involved in the development of the Opel Insignia OPC and I very much enjoyed extensive testing on the most demanding race track of the world, the Nürburgring Nordschleife. Connoisseurs will immediately spot the Brembo calipers and the perforated 355 mm disc on the front axle. Taking the higher performances of the OPC into consideration, significant development efforts were put into further improving the brake system.

The four wheel drive management unit has been recalibrated to adapt torque distribution to the sporty philosophy of the OPC. For the first time also in the OPC portfolio, the Adaptive 4x4 system and its electronic rear limited slip differential (eLSD) are standard. OPC drivers can choose between three different sport modes: the standard mode as the high comfort setting, a special Sport mode and the OPC mode, for optimal performance. While on the Insignia the system offers the choice between a standard adaptive setting, a more comfortable mode and a sport mode, the OPC is definitely addressing those enjoying a sportier ride. The Opel Insignia OPC also comes with the adaptive FlexRide suspension which not only adapts to driving situation and driving style but also to the driver's preferences.

2011 New Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

Those eagerly looking forward to our next hybrid family sedan comparison have to wait just a bit longer this Hyundai Sonata Hybrid we recently tested is a pre-production model. 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Side Click to view Gallery Acceleration is far from Final combined performance figures are 206 horsepower and 193 pound-feet of torque. As you'd expect from a hybrid, the Atkinson-cycle variant from Hyundai's Theta II family has been optimized for maximum efficiency. Because the motor is synced directly to the transmission, a clutch latches to and unlatches from the gasoline-fed 2.4-liter inline-four with 166 horsepower and 154 pound-feet of torque on tap (also revised slightly from earlier in the year).

In its place is the keystone of this hybrid's operation: an electric traction motor rated at 40 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. But the Sonata Hybrid's six-speed automatic is missing one key ingredient: a torque converter. Hyundai's Direct Hybrid Blue Drive system earns its keep as a full parallel setup with an actual step-ratio automatic transmission, a departure from the continuously variable transmissions common in most hybrids. 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Rear Three Quarters Click to view Gallery Improved fuel economy obviously doesn't materialize out of thin air.

Vacationing families and business road warriors will enjoy blowing past all those gas pumps. Given the Sonata Hybrid's 17.2-gallon tank, you could theoretically roll more than 680 highway miles between fill-ups. Then there's range. Against the likes of the Ford Fusion Hybrid and Toyota Camry Hybrid, the highway number is right at the top of the class. To start, Hyundai slightly revised its estimated fuel economy numbers for the Sonata Hybrid to 36/40 city/highway mpg down 1 city and up 1 highway.

Interior Hyundai Sonata Hybrid 2011

The lighter batteries, Hyundai deals with that issue by using lightweight lithium polymer batteries. Lithium Polymer Batteries and Lighter Weight Hybrid critics have complained that the need to tote heavy batteries means one step forward and two steps back. The hatchback Toyota Prius, with its combined 50-mpg rating, is still way ahead of the pack on both highway and city efficiency numbers but shoppers are more likely to put the Sonata Hybrid in the larger mid-size sedan (with trunk) category along with the Camry and Fusion. The approach also results in a total combined output of the engine and motor of 209 horsepower beating out the Camry Hybrid (187 hp) and the Ford Fusion Hybrid (191 hp).

We think this is a better balanced approach for the majority of car buyers. The full hybrid architecture allows the vehicle to operate on an electric motor only, a gasoline internal combustion engine only, or a combination of the two depending on driving conditions and driver demands. Hyundai Sonata “Unlike traditional [power-split] hybrids that trade off highway fuel economy for higher city ratings, the Sonata Hybrid delivers best-in-class highway fuel economy, while still delivering about a 40 percent improvement in city fuel economy compared to a Sonata equipped with the Theta II GDI engine, said Krafcik. It means that Hyundai is trying to address the common complaint that hybrids provide great mileage for city driving conditions, but not so much for highway driving. What’s the difference? Instead Hyundai is using its new six-speed automatic transmission with an electric motor that takes the place of the torque converter.

Unlike hybrid systems from Ford and Toyota, the Hyundai system does not use a continuously variable transmission with integrated electric motors and generators.

Hyundai Sonata Hybrid 2011

Its full parallel hybrid configuration and breakthrough lithium polymer batteries offer a new take on traditional hybrid design, while its unique design sets it apart from the mid-size hybrid pack. The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is the new kid on the block, but it's not a follower, said John Krafcik, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor America. Moreover, Hyundai went its own direction on technology by developing an original proprietary hybrid architecture to reduce weight and to improve highway fuel economy. While the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid does not look exactly like its conventional sibling more about that in a moment—Hyundai decided not to copy the unique aero look of the Toyota Prius and Honda Insight. The company is taking direct aim at the Toyota Camry Hybrid (33/34) and Ford Fusion Hybrid (41/36), the two most popular regular-looking mid-size hybrid sedans.

Hyundai expects the Sonata Hybrid to achieve 37 miles per gallon in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. While we’re still lacking perhaps the most critical piece of information, it appears that Hyundai has produced a mainstream mid-size hybrid sedan that provides real competition for class-leading fuel economy. Apparently, Hyundai took its time, scrutinized the hybrid competition, and attempted to outdo it in every respect. The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, expected to hit dealerships later this year, is the South Korean company’s first hybrid in the US market.

New

New soft-touch materials have been introduced and the “manta ray” motif panels on Send through Y!M E-mail this 2011 Toyota iQ 2011 Toyota iQ Photos the door and centre console adopt a new The new cabin color-way is available with Eclipse Black, Pearl White, Island Blue and Tyrol Silver exterior finishes, while the established plum interior will continue to be offered with Deep Amethyst, Chilli Red and Decuma Grey. A new grey interior has been introduced, with contrasting black upper trims on the doors and toning fabric upholstery. Its distinctive exterior appearance remains unchanged, but in the cabin some changes have been made to raise the quality factor and give customers more choice. Toyota Press Release: It may be the world’s smallest four-seater car, but the Toyota iQ has never been short on style.

The 2011 Toyota iQ price list starts at 10,158 GBP and the new version is on sale now. The 2011 Toyota iQ will be available in Eclipse Black, Pearl White, Island Blue and Tyrol Silver while the interior will be available in Deep Amethyst, Chilli Red and Decuma Grey. Apart from the new Euro V compliance, the 2011 Toyota iQ also offers the new Kuru black leather upholstery option together with new exterior colors. The 2011 Toyota iQ 1.0-litre offers a 99g/km CO2 emissions level and a 64.2mpg fuel consumption, while the 1.33-litre equipped with Stop & Start technology is officially rated at 113g/km and 57.6mpg.

The 2011 Toyota iQ is powered by revised versions of the Optimal Drive 1.0-litre VVT-i and 1.33-litre Dual VVT-i petrol engines which are now Euro V compliant. The 2011 Toyota iQ has just went on sale in the UK, offering revised engines and new options.

2011 Toyota iQ Images Released

You can follow this link to do so. Those of you who want to know more about the real-world feeling offered by the iQ can check out our test-drive section to see the review of the vehicle. The iQ’s main competitor is the smart, with the German car recently receiving a facelift. The Toyota iQ was introduced in 2007 at the Frankfurt Auto Show and was created as the world’s most compact four-seat vehicle offering space for three adults and a child.

The 2011 model year will also bring slight modifications under the bonnet of the iQ, as the vehicle’s 1.0 and 1.3 liter units will meet Euro V standards. In addition to that, the seats get a new fabric and the trimmings get revised plastic materials. The vehicle’s side armrests come finished in a shiny satin, while the center console remains unchanged. Toyota has decided to make this move in order to offer a higher quality vehicle for its customers. The iQ’s refreshed interior comes with new materials and fabrics.

The 2011 model year iQ will come with no exterior modifications, with the changes being found inside the mini-vehicle.

2011 Scion iQ Review and Prices

These larger The Scion is also larger than the Smart, standing some 10 inches longer, nearly 5 inches wider, and 2.4 inches lower on a 4.7-inch-longer wheelbase. Where the German-brand mini drives its rear wheels with a small 3-cylinder engine mounted in back, the iQ has an up-front engine and front-wheel drive. Reviews of All New Scions Reviews of All New Toyotas Prices and Reviews for New Coupes The 2011 Scion iQ uses a new, dedicated architecture and differs from the Smart in many ways despite a similar phone-booth silhouette and wheels way out at the corners.

If it comes here, it would be our market's first direct alternative to the Smart ForTwo from Mercedes Benz parent Daimler AG, a car generating much interest amid soaring fuel prices and a worsening economy. sale as a 2011 Scion model. Europe and Japan are the intended markets, but the iQ is being whispered for U.S. Toyota hopes to sell 100,000 in 2009. Billed as an "intelligent solution to urban transport," the iQ was designed at Toyota's ED2 studio in southern France, but is built in Japan.

The petite 2-door hatchback bowed as a concept at the autumn 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show in Germany and was shown in production trim at the March 2008 Geneva Auto Salon in Switzerland. What We Know About the 2011 Scion iQ As if to answer critics of its big, thirsty, and environmentally hostile trucks, Toyota is launching a thrifty Earth friendly microcar called iQ. Though designed for Europe and Japan, the iQ is coming stateside with Scion badges to help us cope with soaring fuel prices and growing urban congestion. Toyota is out to get Smart with a clever new microcar.

2011 The Best Mini Paceman Concept

The new rear lights stretch around the corners of the car to rest atop The front end features the traditional family face, but there's been a departure from the norm at the back. Ignore the concept car frippery, and you'll see that the Paceman drops a few hints towards Mini's future design direction. Well if you have, the Mini Paceman could be the car for you. Have you ever fancied brown leather-clad door handles and a fuel filler cap with a piece of cow hide dangling off it?

The Mini Paceman Concept looks normal on the inside, but what about the outside? The design sketches show a typical Mini interior, albeit with champagne glasses mounted on the Mini Cenre Rail, and a removable front passenger seat that enables a rear passenger to stretch their legs. The Paceman Concept gets a permanent all-wheel drive system, with an electromagnetic centre differential to send 100% of the power to the rear wheels in extreme circumstances. A John Cooper Works-spec 1.6-litre turbocharged engine provides the Paceman Concept with 208bhp and 192lb ft, with an overboost function bumping torque up to 207lb ft. The four seater Paceman is based on the Countryman, but it's 20mm lower and 13mm longer the Paceman is 4110mm long, 1789mm wide and 1541mm high, while the Countryman measures 4097/1789/1561mm.

What’s going on under the skin? The Mini Paceman Concept looks rather big and bulky for a coupe. And as CAR revealed way back in April 2009, a second sportier version of Mini's biggest model is on the way: the Paceman will almost certainly reach production. Mini calls it a Sports Activity Coupe (SAC), but really it’s just a two-door Countryman. These are the first official pictures of Mini’s not-so-mini Paceman Concept.

2011 New Mini Paceman Concept

For more on the Paceman--and MINI's upcoming Coupe and Roadster-stay tuned for High Gear Media's wall-to-wall coverage of the Detroit Auto Show. MINI says the Paceman hasn't been green-lighted for production, but its aggressive plans to flesh out its lineup could include the Paceman on an assembly line in Graz, Austria, alongside the Countryman and the BMW X1. Electric power steering and independent suspension-some of our favorite pieces on the 2011 MINI Cooper S Countryman--have been carried over to the concept as well.

MINI's all-wheel drive system fits an electromagnetic differential to split power front to rear. Tucked beneath the hood is the MINI John Cooper Works engine, a 1.6-liter turbocharged four with 211 horsepower and 192 pound-feet with an overboost function that briefly lifts torque to 207 lb-ft. The Paceman's dimensions are an overall length of 161.8 inches, 70.4 inches wide, and 60.7 inches wide. The concept has a center-rail console like the one found in the four-door crossover, and accompanying bucket seats, while restyled interior door and trim panels use ovals to lend an impression of more interior space.

The details of the cabin haven't been revealed in photos, but the sketches released today show a close link to today's Countryman.

2011 MINI Paceman Concept

On the rear, the Paceman has more of a horizontal design theme, with a lower, smaller glass area and taillamps turned 90 degrees from their vertical installation in the Countryman. Big 19-inch wheels are fitted, suggesting an uptick in performance for the two-door edition. Behind the front clip, the Paceman chops and channels its way into coupe-dom with a shorter, more sloping roofline that still carries over the notched Countryman roofline. Calling the new design study a "crossover coupe," MINI says the Paceman starts identically to the Countryman up front, where it shares a grille with the higher-powered Cooper S Countryman.

The Paceman concept will make its world debut at the 2011 Detroit auto show on January 10. The 2011 MINI Countryman is the first four-door in the British brand's lineup but a new two-door version could be in the works, if the MINI Paceman concept is any indication.

The Best Kia Optima Hybrid 2011

This also allows for other Offering several advantages, this modular layout includes more efficient powertrain packaging, use of many "off the-shelf" components such as the existing six-speed automatic transmission found on the 2.4-liter GDI Optima, and reduced engineering investment. Compared to the power-split hybrid systems found on vehicles from Toyota or Ford, the Kia Optima Hybrid uses a Transmission Mounted Electric-Drive (TMED) layout with the electric motor separated from the transmission gear-set. Unique Hybrid Architecture Unlike most current systems on the market, the Kia Optima Hybrid powertrain is configured with a unique architecture.

Lithium polymer also has less of the self-discharge characteristic found in most rechargeable batteries. With that improved efficiency, more of the recovered kinetic energy and charging energy from the engine is available to move the car as necessary, which allows the vehicle to provide electric driving assist more often and for a longer period. Both fuel consumption and emissions are cut, allowing more electric starts and drive-aways. The Kia Optima Hybrid's battery will hold its charge up to 25 percent longer than hybrids with nickel metal hydride batteries, so the battery is more likely to have usable energy available even if it has not been in use.

The power and energy density of this new battery type allowed Kia engineers to create a lighter and more compact battery pack, with the 30 kilowatt battery pack weighing just 95.9 pounds - 28 pounds less than the 2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid's nickel metal hydride pack - which aids fuel economy and also helps to maximize Optima's cargo space. Durable Lithium Polymer Battery The 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid's outstanding efficiency is due in large part to the use of a lithium polymer battery, which was developed in South Korea with partner LG Chem.

New Kia Optima Hybrid 2011

When the car comes to a stop and the electrical load is low, the engine shuts off to completely eliminate idle fuel consumption and emissions. to the Optima lineup we are providing consumers with three powerful and fuel-efficient powertrain choices, and continuing Kia's philosophy of offering stylish, value packed vehicles with outstanding fuel efficiency. The 2011 Optima Hybrid uses a full parallel hybrid system and can be driven in zero emission, full-electric drive mode at speeds up to 62 miles per hour or in blended gas-electric mode at any speed. "By adding our first-ever hybrid in the U.S.

Kia Motors is aggressively expanding its green car investments and R&D in much the same way we committed ourselves to the quality and design innovations over the last decade that have fueled our dramatic brand transformation, said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, KMA. Set to hit showrooms early next year, the Kia Optima Hybrid employs a Kia-developed powertrain that includes several innovations that enable it to provide exceptional hybrid performance and efficiency. will attract those looking for a striking and well-equipped sedan that does not sacrifice style, comfort, performance or value for fuel efficiency. With a stunning design, roomy interior, and an estimated 40 mpg class-leading fuel efficiency, Kia's first-ever hybrid in the U.S. As the latest model in Kia's design-led transformation, the all-new 2011 Kia Optima midsize sedan lineup expanded with Kia Motors America's (KMA) introduction of the all-new Kia Optima Hybrid at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Kia Optima Hybrid 2011

A five year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan also is part of the vehicle coverage. As you may know, Kia offers one of the best warranty: 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty and a five year/100,000-mile anti perforation warranty.

The 2011 Kia Optima Hybrid will offer 40 mpg highway fuel economy and uses lithium polymer battery (lighter than the traditional NiMH batteries) for increase fuel efficiency. At the show, Kia unveiled its first ever hybrid, the Kia Optimia Hybrid for the US market.

This year, the LA Auto Show had several hybrid and all-electric vehicles from all the manufacturers.

New Acura TSX Sedan 2011

Drivetrain The 2011 Acura TSX sedan remains fun to drive thanks to Acura has always put much emphasis on building an interior that is exceptionally quiet, and for 2011 the Acura TSX has even greater cabin serenity thanks to items such as a new acoustic glass front windshield, even thicker side glass, increased use of sound-deadening insulation, improved floor mats and new underfloor covers. Now with the ability to store more than 3,500 songs, there is no longer a need to carry around bulky CDs. New for 2011, the TSX with available Technology Package now includes an LED backlit full VGA navigation screen (that generates 400-percent better resolution than before), improved navigation system functions (faster performance, improved search ability and expanded map coverage), Song By Voice™ (SBV) user interface, a 60-gigabyte hard disk drive (HDD) system, and the ability to download 15-gigabytes of personal music to the HDD system. Acura is known for its outstanding array of user relevant technology, and the 2011 Acura TSX further expands on this concept. Rear seat occupants will enjoy added comfort thanks to the addition of heating/cooling vents mounted at the rear of the center console. In addition, new is contrasting-color stitching for the leather seats, door armrests and center console. Interior Inside, the 2011 Acura TSX receives a host of visual upgrades in the form of revised styling for the center console, darker trim pieces, brightly finished door handles, an updated parking brake handle and new garnishes for the steering wheel. The standard 17-inch 5-spoke aluminum wheels for the 2.4L 4-cylinder model are more cutting edge as they now incorporate a machined lip on the face of the spokes, and the split 5-spoke 18-inch aluminum wheels remain standard with the 3.5L V-6 model.

Acura TSX Sedan 2011

At the rear, revised taillights and an updated rear license plate garnish add more visual appeal for the Acura TSX. The updated front end teams with new underbody panels to improve aerodynamics. Exterior On the outside, the 2011 TSX receives a new front fascia, revised chin spoiler, new fog light garnish assembly and an updated grill. Thanks to this great mix of attributes, the Acura TSX has the largest percentage of buyers under 30 among all luxury sedans and has remained the volume leader within its segment according to Global Insight. In short, the best entry luxury car just got better. Acura's philosophy of smart luxury is well evidenced by the combination of great looks, a luxury interior available with a wide variety of technology features, and excellent safety all for an exceptional level of value. "The 2011 TSX offers even better looks, more owner relevant technology and class leading fuel economy," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. In addition, significant improvements have been made to both the 2.4L I-4 and 3.5L V-6 engines that yield improved fuel efficiency, lower emissions and longer engine life. Topping the list, the Acura TSX sedan receives a freshened exterior look along with a wide array of new features and technology with particular attention being paid to further improving quality and cabin quietness. Despite the Acura TSX sedan being a top choice in its class, Acura has not rested on its laurels, as a host of major updates have been made for 2011.

The 2011 Acura TSX Sport 2011

We've yet to drive the 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon, but check back later in the year for a full review. As such, the Sport Wagon will compete with the likes of the Audi A4 Avant, BMW 3 Series Wagon and Volvo V50 as well as offering an alternative to premium crossover SUVs. Besides the added space, we expect the new wagon to offer similar standard features and options. The 2011 TSX Sport Wagon will add plenty of utility to the sedan model and will also feature additional storage under the cargo floor. We anticipate the 3.5-liter V6 will also be available and both variants will be front-wheel drive. As with its sedan stablemate, the base Sport Wagon will be powered by a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine. The 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon debuted at the 2010 New York Auto Show and is slated to arrive in dealer showrooms sometime this fall.

The Best Peugeot BB1 Concept 2011

Indeed, Peugeot has always sought to be a global, durable provider of mobility, with an inventive, responsible and competitive range of vehicles, whether they are on two, three or four wheels. Peugeot are constantly studying and sharing mobility solutions, bringing together various internal companies to pool their expertise and their creativity to give rise to particularly original projects. Depending on age and their current needs, everyone can fi nd a suitable solution in Peugeot's lion-branded range of bikes, motorbikes and automobiles.

To meet all these needs, Peugeot has developed an amazing mobility offer. Designers are seeking ever more ingenious ways to visualise a plethora of solutions for the future. Everyone wants to save time and the environment is a bigger priority than it ever has been before. Urban traffi c is ever increasing.

The world is always on the move. The Peugeot BB1 Concept car is the promise of a new driving experience. At the forefront are the values of liberty, optimism even "altruism". Capable of seating four people in a vehicle just 2.5 metres long, the Peugeot BB1 Concept car is a full electric vehicle that reinvents the automobile in every way: architecture, style, interior design, drive, connectivity - while all the time respecting the environment.

With the Peugeot BB1 Concept car, Peugeot has fearlessly pushed back the conventions and boundaries of automobile manufacturing to bring a totally original response to the current and future needs of urban mobility.

New Peugeot BB1 Concept 2011

The price is roughly estimated to be half the price of the Mitsubishi based Peugeot Ion, at It has a weight of 550kg due to its carbonfiber body. Clearly, Peugeot's motorbike division has played a key role in the concept's development, its tubular steel understructure similar to a motorbike's. He also described the BB1 as near to qualifying as a quadricycle, and said that it will need a new homologation classification.

A Peugeot spokesman described the project as very serious, possibly hinting at production. However, this can still improve. Currently, top speed is 56mph and range is 75 miles from its under seat lithium ion batteries. Designer Yann Pissonier, who has driven the prototype, describes BB1's acceleration as 'vivacious'.

Each motor develops 20bhp peak power, but more significantly, 236lb ft at each wheel. Propelling the BB1 car are two rear-mounted in wheel electric motors co developed with tiremaker Michelin, which has been working on this technology for some years. The driver steers using a pair of handlebars, which rotates through 40 degrees each way for a very compact seven meter turning circle. The riders also adopt the posture of bike riders, their seats providing no more than vestigial backrests, this packaging being the key to the Peugeot's provision of four seats. Similar to how riders sit at a motorbike, the four adults sit tandem fashion, with the rear seat occupants' legs wrapping around the torso of the front passengers.

Boasting to have an electric range of 75 miles, the BB1 electric car has two doors and four seats and is 2.5 meters long. Peugeot was aiming for a versatile, compact and maneuverable vehicle when it set in motion its plans to create the BB1 electric concept car, which has been unveiled at the Frankfurt motor show.

Peugeot BB1 Concept is Messing With Our Minds 2011

So now you know what happens if you allow French automotive weirdness to go unchecked. There are tiny rear hinged doors with even tinier roll down windows. it's a concept, you don't need no stinking engine. Engine? No word if you can opt for a set of ape-hangers, but why on earth not?

You steer it with moto style handle bars. And the weirdly curved glass is all tilted forward before eventually morphing into solar panels on the roof. Four wheels for sure. OK fine -- our editor is forcing us to tell you some facts about the BB1. Feel free to read a rational account of the Peugeot BB1 at your leisure.

We don't even know what we're looking at. What are we talking about? Yes, it is the logical result of a one night stand between a Subaru SVX and a Peel 50. Regardless, meet the Peugeot BB1. Not tough enough. You know what the problem with Smart cars is.