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Citroen Cactus concept car (2013): the first bubble-wrap, bump-free car

French car firm Citroen has enjoyed some success with its range of upmarket DS models – but now it’s turning its attention to the bread-and-butter C-line cars. And the new 2013 Citroen Cactus concept car is the first look at what’s in store for the mainstream Citroen car range. The Citroen Cactus immediately stands out from the crowd of same-again European crossovers because of its novel Airbump system: think of protective bubble-wrap on the doors and bumpers to protect them from scrapes and dings in car parks and you’re not far from the truth.

Mitsubishi XR-PHEV, Concept GC-PHEV and Concept AR revealed for Tokyo

Mitsubishi XR-PHEV, Concept GC-PHEV and Concept AR revealed for Tokyo With the Tokyo Motor Show arriving at the end of the month, Japanese car makers are revealing the concepts they hope will steal the limelight at their home show, and today it’s the turn of Mitsubishi to reveal the three new concept cars heading for the show. The three Mistubishi concepts were teased in a moody, shadowy photo in October, but we now get details of the XR-PHEV, Concept GC-PHEV and Concept AR. The Concept GC-PHEV is Mitsubishi’s vision of a next-generation full-size SUV and comes with 4WD and a plug-in hybrid powertrain consisting of a 3.0 litre V6 supercharged engine mated to an eight-speed auto box with a high-output electric motor and high-capacity battery.

2009 Michelin Challenge Design theme announced

Michelin today announced the 2009 theme for its global vehicle design competition, Michelin Challenge Design (MCD), asking entrants to explore the future of transportation and share their brave and bold vision for 'America's Next Iconic Vehicle.' Designers this year are asked to render unique vehicle concepts that demonstrate emotional appeal, design courage and technical execution. Additional consideration will be given to entries with attributes that benefit safety and the environment and include a separate rendering of the tire and wheel component assembly.   Vehicle designs that best represent "Brave + Bold, America's Next Iconic Vehicle" will be reviewed by a jury of professional designers whose names will be announced later in 2008.