Honda Fit EV Concept 2012

Honda has unveiled the all-new Fit EV Concept electric vehicle at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show. Alongside the plug-in hybrid vehicle, the Fit EV Concept is integral to the Honda Electric Mobility Network as an advanced environmental approach to reducing CO2 emissions.

Powered by a high-density motor derived from the FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle, The Fit EV delivers excellent efficiency with a top speed of 90 mph.

The Fit EV will achieve an estimated 100-mile driving range per charge using the US EPA LA4* city cycle (70 miles when applying EPA’s adjustment factor). Driving range can be maximized by use of an innovative 3-mode electric drive system adapted from the 2011 Honda CR-Z sport hybrid.

Battery recharging can be accomplished in less than 12 hours when using a conventional 120-volt outlet, and less than six hours when using a 240-volt outlet. When the Fit EV production model is introduced, it will be powered by a lithium-ion battery and coaxial electric motor.

The Fit EV Concept displayed at the LA Auto Show features an exclusive Deep Clear Blue Pearl exterior color and five-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with blue inserts. Inside, an eco-friendly gray bio-fabric on the seating surfaces is outfitted.

RUF RGT-8 Revealed with V8 Engine Transplant

RUF has unveiled the next generation RGT, the RGT-8.

Based on the current 997 Porsche 911, the RGT-8 “is powered by a completely new RUF designed V8 engine with a 180° crankshaft flatcrank.” It features “four valves arranged spherically together with multipoint fuel injection [which] ensure optimal mixture conditions while the dry-sump system supplies the necessary lubrication.” Boasting a capacity of 4.5-liters, the V8 produces 404 kW (542 hp / 549 PS) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque.

To ensure maximum sportiness, RUF made the RGT-8 as light as possible. It comes with aluminum doors, an aluminum hood, a carbon fiber engine cover, and a carbon fiber rear spoiler. Other performance goodies include ceramic brakes, an integrated roll-cage, and 19-inch forged alloy wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires.

In terms of styling, the RGT-8 remains pretty faithful to the standard 911. However, if you want a more exclusive appearance, RUF offers a Frère package. Inspired by the 550 Coupe, that Paul Frère drove to victory in the 1953 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Frère package consists of redesigned front fenders, a unique front end, and special interior trim.

RUF is planning to launch the RGT-8 in 2011, so look for more information to be released later this year.

Fab Design Porsche Panamera at Geneva

Fab Design has unveiled a modified Porsche Panamera Turbo at the Geneva Motor Show.

Set to become the first non-Mercedes tuned by the company, the Panamera features a widebody kit with a new front end, a circumferential front spoiler, a carbon fiber hood, flared wheel arches, and aggressive side skirts. Out back, Fab installed a new bumper (with an integrated diffuser), a three-tailpipe trapezoidal exhaust, a carbon fiber rear wing, and a massive tailgate-mounted spoiler.

Under the hood, the twin-turbo 4.8-liter V8 produces 515 kW (700 PS / 691 hp). While the company didn’t release performance specifications, the standard 368 kW (500 PS / 493 hp) Panamera Turbo runs from 0-62 mph in 4.2 seconds and has a top speed of 188 mph (303 km/h).

Besides the engine modifications, the Fab Panamera also features 22-inch wheels, a 20mm reduction in ride height, and a high performance braking system.

Pricing information hasn’t been released, but production will be limited to 15 units.