Ford Reflex and Ford Shelby GR-1
Ford Reflex
The Ford Reflex Concept represents the future design of Ford vehicles. Designed in Ford's Irvine, Califorina studio, The unique design cues show a more progressive Ford Motor Company and are a sign of exciting products to come. The Reflex showcases technology that also peeks at Ford’s future small cars. Complete with a diesel-electric hybrid engine with lithium-ion batteries, this power plant provides up to 65 mpg. The unique roof design incorporates a solar panel that generates enough energy to power internal fans that cool the car when parked. Perhaps the most exciting feature is Ford’s unique "butterfly" doors that offer exceptional ease for getting in and out. This sporty look is something consumers will gravitate towards. Let’s not forget safety, inflatable safety belts act as their own airbags for extra protection and is a feature special to Ford. Interior space is also utilized with 2+1 seating, with a single child seat in the back for the small family on the go. Pricing and production have not yet been announced.
Ford Shelby GR-1
Designed in Ford's Irvine, California studio, this super car represents the very best in Ford’s stable of performance-based vehicles. Celebrating Ford’s relationship with automotive legend Carol Shelby, this race-inspired shape is reflective of the famous Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe. This concept is an actual driver and is powered by a 6.4 liter V10 producing 605 horsepower. Combined with a six-speed manual transmission, this running prototype for testing features for Ford's next generation of performance cars. The most unique feature about this concept is the all-aluminum body giving the car a glossy and “exotic” look.
Lincoln MKR
This could be the one single car that helps put Lincoln back on the map with a competitive luxury-based sports car. Designed in Ford's Michigan studio, this concept really points to the future direction of Lincoln. With an aggressive side profile, styled exhaust, and married to sporty exterior styling, this Lincoln, if produced, will be highly sought after by consumers. This premium 4-door coupe uses "guilt free" materials that are highly recyclable and working to keep the weight of the vehicle down. Of course, Lincoln is showcasing its signature double-wing grille opening that recalls famous earlier Lincolns. Powered by 3.5 liter twin-turbo V6 producing 415 horsepower, this power plant is comparable to V-8 engines, but 15% more efficient. Finally, this Lincoln is very strong with an aggressive look, yet elegant … like "An athlete in a tuxedo."
Probably the most exciting concept vehicle on the auto show tour, the Saab Aero X is one of the sexiest, sporty and most exciting vehicles that we can only hope will come to market. Inspired by Saab’s aviation heritage, this power-packed 2.8 liter engine runs off of E85 Ethanol, making it a green” sports car that produces 400-hp and touts a 4.9 second 0-60. Top line speed is close to 150, but will be hard to validate until a more advanced pre-production vehicle comes to market. The exterior doors of the Aero X are what Saab’s calls “Gull Wings”, which are similar to “Butterfly” wings. The interior cues of this car are also reflective of Saab’s attention to world class design. No production plans have been announced for this concept, but design cues are starting to be seen in other vehicles.
Hyundai Genesis
This will be Hyundai’s first-ever V-8 power plant for a Korean sedan. Rear-wheel driven, the Hyundai Genesis will become a legitimate competitor with other mid-size luxury sedans. Look for this new introduction to compete with BMW’s 5-Series and Lexus’ ES models. Powered by a 300 hp, 4.6 liter V8, the Genesis is going to hit the market in 2008. The interior creature comforts for Hyundai will also be reflective of the luxury consumers expect in a luxury based sedan. Pricing has not yet been announced, but look for it in the coming months.
For the past two years, we have seen much of the fanfare surrounding the launch of the Chevy Camaro…and two years later…we are still singing the praises of this much anticipated vehicle. With a hard top and a convertible set for production, the Chevy Camaro will mark the rebirth of one of America’s most celebrated sports cars. With a 400 hp LS2 engine, the Camaro will provide unparalleled performance. The exterior will provide styling cues from the original 67 Camaro with aggressive lines and pronounced exhaust note. Under the body of the car are 21” front tires and 22” rear tires. The exhaust notes from the Camaro will breath fire from dual exhaust pipes. Auto industry insiders predict the entry level V8 (no LS2 engine) will start around $20,000.