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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.

Potholes claims rise by 750%

CLAIMS for damage to cars have risen by as much as 750% due to the poor state of the UK’s roads after the winter’s floods. One council has reported an increase in claims from motorists whose cars have suffered broken suspension and steering. Somerset Council said it has experienced a 750% rise in claims for the period from January to February 2014 compared to the same period the previous year.

Citroen C3 Picasso (2008): first official pictures

By Phil McNamara First Official Pictures 08 July 2008 10:52 Citroen today announces the C3 Picasso, a supermini-MPV it claims has the innovative magic of the company’s DS masterpiece, the ‘useful and beautiful’ approach of Apple’s iPhone and the unblinking practicality needed to wound the market-leading Vauxhall/Opel Meriva. The spacious, eye-catching MPV goes on UK sale in summer 2009. It’s based on the next-generation C3 supermini, and runs four-cylinder engines turning the front wheels.