|
SMALLER. SAFER. BETTER.
Michelin Challenge Design Exhibit Features Concept Vehicles from Citroen, Dodge and Nissan
DETROIT (Jan. 13, 2008) – Each year the Michelin Challenge Design™ (MCD) exhibit at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) located in Cobo Center’s Michigan Hall showcases specialty vehicles and technology from around the globe in support of a specific design theme. This year is no exception, with important works from leading vehicle manufacturers in Europe, Asia and United States.
The following vehicles and technologies were selected in support of the 2008 Michelin Challenge Design theme: “Smaller. Safer. Better.” – Vehicle design concepts with attributes that make smaller vehicles safer particularly in urban environments.
Citroen C-SportLounge
Citroen’s C-SportLounge is a fresh interpretation of the grand touring car inside and out, featuring powerful, aerodynamic exterior lines with ultra-smooth flanks, rounded at the top, and a cockpit-inspired interior designed for the pleasure of the driver and the well-being of three adult passengers. The noble styling of the bodywork is designed to be pleasing to the eye using sleek, muscled lines reflecting Citroën's signature style.
The determined look of the front end is enhanced by wide air intakes, clear-cut headlamps with swivelling beams and the marques’ large chrome chevrons on a smooth bonnet. The large windshield placed well to the front rises high and blends into the sunroof in a single unbroken line to enhance visibility and the amount of natural light entering the cockpit.
The profile of the C‑SportLounge is designed for optimal aerodynamic design, class and elegance. The receding roof arch and attention to detail are highlighted by two chrome horizontal bars: one at the waist line and the other along the bonnet up the top of the front quarter-light. The well-defined wheel arches and 20-inch aluminium wheels are another expression of the vehicle’s inherent strength and power.
Dodge Hornet
Rallye-ready and eager to go, the Dodge Hornet concept vehicle is designed to bring to the B-segment market a unique blending of European sensibility regarding engine size and overall footprint with an American flair for aggressive attitude and flexible interior space.
"We wanted the Hornet to be dynamic, nimble, fun to drive, and have an adaptable space-efficient interior," said Principal Exterior Designer, Mark Moushegian. "At the same time we set out to create a vehicle with a uniquely American character to expand the image and presence of the Dodge brand in Europe and international markets, especially in the entry-level."
With its wide stance, the Hornet is solidly planted on the road. Up front, the signature Dodge crossbar grille is set above an exposed engine intercooler flanked by front brake air ducts and fog lamps. The raised plateau on the hood features a recessed scoop on the driver's side to funnel air to the engine air box.
"We went for a rallye-inspired look with a distinct edge — robust, capable, and most definitely not 'cutesy.' We especially wanted to push the envelope of interior volume. That's why the Hornet is almost as wide as a C-segment vehicle," Moushegian added.
Nissan Effis
Developed with tomorrow’s urban lifestyles in mind, Effis applies Nissan’s most advanced technologies to create the ideal commuter vehicle of the future. This compact, lightweight FCV is eco- and user-friendly. Effis is packed with radical, ingenious solutions.
This 3.5-seater concept is a perfect fit for urban lifestyles. The instrument panel is reconfigurable to offer 3+1 seating in a comfortable space. With just one person on board, the “rotational instrument panel” extends to provide a rotary table. With two people in front, the rear seat serves as a luggage area. For more passengers, push the instrument panel back in, slide the front passenger seat forward and raise the rear seat. Voila! There is ample room for three adults with space behind the driver’s seat for one additional passenger. It’s minimal on the outside and flexible on the inside.
Nissan’s revolutionary Super Motor has two independently controllable output shafts. Just one motor on the front axle and one on the rear enable independent 4-wheel control for enhanced driving dynamics and stability. This motor technology and a slim, high power compact Lithium-ion battery, together with aluminum and plastic body materials, help achieve the size and weight reduction demanded in a city commuter vehicle, while facilitating interior convenience.
About Michelin Challenge Design
Michelin Challenge Design (www.michelinchallengedesign.com) was launched in 2001 as a way to showcase creativity and innovation in vehicle design on a global scale around a central theme. Each year, Michelin invites designers around the world, from individuals to small and large companies, to create and display significant design work that would normally not have an opportunity to be shown at a major auto show.
Dedicated to the improvement of sustainable mobility, Michelin designs, manufactures and sells tires for every type of vehicle, including airplanes, automobiles, bicycles, earthmovers, farm equipment, heavy-duty trucks, motorcycles and the space shuttle. The company also publishes travel guides, hotel and restaurant guides, maps and road atlases. Headquartered in Greenville, S.C., Michelin North America (www.michelin-us.com) employs more than 22,500 and operates 19 major manufacturing plants in 17 locations.
# # #
For more information, visit www.michelinmedia.com or contact:
Lynne Slovick
Michelin North America
Office: 1-864-458-6365
Cell: 1-864-561-9914
lynne.slovick@us.michelin.com
Kari Nattrass
EMC Public Relations
Office: 1-248-816-0108
Cell: 1-248-705-4512
kari@emcpr.com
|
