ALL AUTOCARS

Based on the mid-engined, rear-wheel drive electric version of the i MiEV tiny city car, Mitsubishi's Sport Air Concept is a further development of the homonymous 2007 Tokyo Auto Salon show car. The i MiEV Sport Air uses a more powerful version of Mitsubishi's permanent magnet synchronous electric motor generating 60 kW or 80HP of power (vs. the i MiEV's 47 kW or 63HP) and 230 Nm of torque (180 Nm.)

Revealed as a concept in Geneva, Alfa Romeo's high-performance MiTo GTA show car is said to preview a production model that could follow as early as 2010. In line with the famous GTA (Gran Turismo Alleggerito) signature, Alfa's MINI Cooper JCW rival prioritizes weight reduction while power comes from a new 1.8-liter turbocharged engine producing 240HP. Hit the jump for live photos as well a video of the car that was shot during Alfa's press conference at the Geneva Motor Show.

Created to celebrate the firm's 20th anniversary but also to explore the brand's future in terms of design and eco-friendly technologies, the Infiniti Essence is a high-performance, petrol/electric hybrid coupe with rear-wheel drive. "It isn't a teaser for a new model. It is solely dedicated to Infiniti brand promotion, to demonstrate and advocate the Infiniti unique values," said Francois Bancon, Infiniti's General Manager in Advanced Product Planning.

The 4.7-meters long dramatic concept which in some ways brings to mind the Fisker Karma, is powered by a petrol-hybrid system that combines a twin-turbocharged version of Infiniti's familiar 3.7-liter V6 engine producing 440HP with a new a type of electric motor, called 3D Motor that provides 160HP and is positioned between the engine and transmission.

The electric motor draws power from a compact lithium-ion battery pack in the boot area. Because the 3D Motor operates in both propulsion and power regeneration modes, the battery pack is kept charged up.

The two motors can work independently or together as a "parallel" hybrid system. In congested urban areas, the electric motor provides enough power to run the Essence alone. When the traffic clears, the rear-wheel drive coupe can use both engines for a total output of 600HP.

SPECIFICATIONS-----INFINITI ESSENCE