17" X 9" Gear Alloy Satin Black W/ Machined Accents Wheels Rims 728mb 17 Inch on 2040-parts.com

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.

Ferrari FF gets 875bhp with E85 conversion

Ferrari FF E85 conversion gets 875bhp If the performance of the Ferrari FF with 650bhp isn’t enough for you, how about a bio-ethanol (E85) conversion with 875bhp? Despite Ferrari anoraks claiming the Ferrari FF isn’t a real Ferrari, we think it’s stunning. With a glorious V12 producing 650bhp, 0-60mph in 3.7 seconds, room for four – and their luggage – and a go-anywhere 4WD system, we think it’s a masterpiece.

Dacia at Geneva: Dacia Duster – UK launch in 2012 +video

The 2010 Dacia Duster - coming to the UK in 2012. James May will be pleased. The ‘Renault for the budget conscious’ brand Dacia are to launch their cars in the UK starting in 2012, despite telling us when they revealed the Duster in December they had no plans for a UK launch.