Dodge ZEO
Carmakers from around the world unveiled concept cars at the annual North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Many of the models introduced new technology aimed at producing
greener cars without compromising performance. Left, Chrysler’s Dodge ZEO electric concept car.
Saturn Flextreme
General Motors’ Saturn Flextreme electric concept car will run for up to 34 miles on a motor powered by a lithium-ion battery that’s rechargeable in a household outlet in three hours. A panoramic display under the windshield gives the driver a complete 360-degree view of the car’s surroundings using video cameras instead of side-view mirrors. And a touchscreen is used to control driving, parking, and reversing.
Dodge ZEO
Dodge’s ZEO electric concept car, presented by Chrysler, runs on a 64-kilowatt-per-hour lithium-ion battery pack and can last for a minimum of 250 miles. With a Super White interior to complement the metallic orange paint, this sports car is powered by a 200-kilowatt (268-horsepower) single-electric motor and can accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in less than six seconds.
Chevy Volt
Chevrolet’s Volt electric concept car, presented at the G.M. Style event, kicked off the auto show. Created by more than 200 engineers and 25 interior and exterior designers, the Chevy Volt can complete a 40-mile commute solely on electricity. Besides being rechargeable—you simply plug it into a 110-volt outlet—this sedan also has the option of running on gasoline, E85 ethanol, or both for long-distance drives.
Jeep Renegade
Jeep’s Renegade concept car, presented by Chrysler, runs on a battery pack that lasts for 40 miles and a Bluetec 115-horsepower diesel engine for longer trips. Two 200-kilowatt (268-horsepower) electric motors power each axle of the four-wheel-drive Renegade, while a lightweight aluminum frame and regen-braking system improve its efficiency.
Chrysler ecoVoyager
Chrysler’s ecoVoyager electric concept car is designed to embody the elegance and simplicity of a private jet. The battery-powered electric motor lasts for up to 40 miles, and for longer trips, a hydrogen fuel cell provides power. Chrysler’s logo inspired the shapes of the headlights, taillights, and grille openings. A display screen situated below the windshield displays images from the side- and rearview mirrors.
Audi R8 V12 TDI
Audi’s R8 V12 TDI concept car was presented at the auto show as the first 12-cylinder diesel engine in a high-performance road-going sports car. With an engine similar to that of their two-time Le Mans winner, the R8 V12 TDI has the potential to reach 186.41 m.p.h. and to accelerate from zero to 62.14 m.p.h. in 4.2 seconds. A new addition is a glass roof in the passenger compartment.
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