ASIAN AUTOMAKERS SHINE AT GENEVA AUTO SHOW

Alternative Fuels and Driver-Assist Safety Features are Conspicuous…

An alphabet soup of Asian automakers used the Geneva auto show to showcase, and in many cases, debut, new models and concept vehicles. Mitsubishi, for instance, unveiled the Engelberg Tourer all-wheel-drive CUV concept. Named after a Swiss ski resort, the twin-motor plug-in-hybrid electric CUV has a range of 43 miles (70 km) on a fully charged battery and a total range of 434 miles (700 km), according to the company.

Nissan also used the occasion to debut its IMQ crossover concept, meant to hint at the future design and technology direction for its CUVs. While the turbo-charged IMQ has a total output of 250 kW (335hp) and 516 lb.-ft. of torque, it’s the advanced technology that’s most interesting. Specifically, the invisible-to-visible tech, which meshes the real and virtual worlds into a 3D interface and can be helpful in seeing around corners and in determining traffic-jam causes.  The IMQ also sports a 33-inch (84 cm) infotainment screen and Bridgestone Connect tires that transmit tire data directly to the driver.

Korean automaker Kia introduced the all-new Soul EV, which brings long-range, zero-emissions power to the urban crossover class. While the Soul EV embraces the iconic design and playful character of its predecessors, the third-generation car will be powered in Europe exclusively by electric energy, with a choice of two long-range, zero-emissions powertrains. The new-generation battery packs are up to 30 percent more energy efficient than Europe’s best-selling electric vehicle, according to Kia.

Other standout examples included Toyota’s unveiling of the Supra sports car—with the European allotment of 900 cars already presold—as well as a retro-looking Honda battery-electric prototype, the Honda e, which the company claims can fast charge its battery to 80 percent in 30 minutes.

Mitsubishi’s twin-motor plug-in-hybrid electric Engelberg Tourer concept crossover has a range of 43 miles (70 km) on a fully charged battery and a total range of 434 miles (700 km).

Subaru debuted two vehicles at the Geneva show, including the VIZIV Adrenaline concept, shown here. Said to wear the boldest styling of vehicles with the automaker’s Dynamic x Solid design language, the angular CUV features a uniquely designed roof and white accents on the wheels and tires.

The all-new Kia Soul EV, which embraces the iconic design and playful character of its predecessors, will be powered in Europe exclusively by electric energy, with a choice of two long-range, zero-emissions powertrains.

SALON PRIVÉ TO CELEBRATE BENTLEY’S 100^TH ANNIVERSARY

Event to Grace the Grounds of Britain’s Blenheim Palace…

To mark the centennial anniversary of one of the most prestigious automotive marques, Salon Privé will dedicate September 7 – 8 to Britain’s iconic Bentley Motors. The two-day celebration, to be held on the luxurious grounds of Blenheim Palace, will consist of the Bentley Masters, a Bentley Drivers Club Concours d’Elegance, as well as the newly launched Salon Privé Classic & Supercar.

The third running of the Masters Series will be devoted to marking Bentley Motors’ 100^th anniversary. Although the event will have a competitive element, the main attraction will be an enviable display of 50 Bentleys from the earliest through to the very latest models.  The Bentley Drivers Club Concours d’Elegance will merge with the Salon Privé Classic & Supercar, which is expected to draw no fewer than 1,001 Bentleys from across the globe.

“It’s a real honor for us to have been selected as the host event for Bentley’s centenary this year, and we are planning a spectacular weekend of celebrations at Blenheim Palace,” said Salon Privé Cofounder and Sales Director David Bagley. “Stretching across the North Lawns, it will be the ultimate tribute for this iconic British marque.”  For additional information and to purchase tickets, visit www.salonpriveconcours.com.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Blenheim Palace, Salon Privé, now in its 14^th year, will pay tribute to the rich, 100-year legacy of Bentley Motors.

LAMBORGHINIS TAKE CENTER STAGE

London Concours to Feature Show-Stopping Array of Iconic Supercars…

Montres Breguet, presenter of the London Concours, has announced an exceptional gathering of iconic Lamborghini Miuras will take place on June 5 – 6. Once the world’s fastest production car, and hailed as one of the greatest automotive designs of all time, as many as eight examples will be on display at the London Concours.

In addition to the Lamborghinis, nearly 100 automotive greats from all eras will also be on display on the idyllic lawns of the Honourable Artillery Company HQ during the event. “If any single model deserves to be celebrated at the London Concours, it’s the Lamborghini Miura,” said Andrew Evans, London Concours director. “In a spectacular event showcasing nearly 100 automotive icons, from the Ferrari F40 to the Bugatti Veyron, this colorful slice of supercar history is set to be a real highlight.”  Tickets are available at www.londonconcours.co.uk/tickets.

A show-stopping display of Lamborghini Miuras will serve as the focal point—and main draw—at the London Concours, which will also showcase 100 iconic motorcars of various eras and marques.