Nissan is turning over...
Nissan is turning over a new leaf! The Japanese firm has unveiled its first specifically-designed electric car, the Leaf, which it claims is the world"s first affordable, zero-emission passenger vehicle.
The E Boost took honours...
The E Boost took honours in the design explorations category thanks to its clever hybrid powerplant, which features an electric motor mated to a petrol engine to enhance performance and economy, plus reduce emissions.
The awards, held in California, were organised by the Industrial Designers of America (IDSA), a body which promotes high-quality design in everything from computers to cars. A spokesman for IDSA praised the sleek two-seater Mitsubishi for its "combination of power, beauty and conscience - a sexy body on a hybrid engine".
Externally, the E Boost"s styling is derived from the Eclipse coup탩, which went on sale in the US earlier this year, and is powered by a choice of conventional petrol engines: a 162bhp 2.4-litre or a 263bhp 3.8. However, the show vehicle won recognition for the novel idea of using hybrid technology in a high-performance two-door.
Sadly, neither the concept nor the roadgoing Eclipse are expected to make it to the UK. A spokeswoman for the Japanese manufacturer explained: "The Eclipse is the kind of car we"d like to see over here at some point, but that looks unlikely for now."