Doc Brown would have been proud. Nine automakers have submittedentries in the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show’s Design Challenge, acompetition aimed at conceiving a futuristic car that’s environmentallyfriendly, by both design and fuel source, and can be recycled afterfive years on the road. It’s the third such competition sponsored bythe auto show, and all entries are strictly two-dimensional. Judgeschoose a winner based on originality, environmentalism, safety and howwell it reflects Southern California’s “green” lifestyle.
For details on the winner, stay tuned for our full L.A. Auto Showcoverage coming at the end of November. For now, here’s a sneak peek.
Acura FCX 2020 Le Mans: Try saying it six times fast. The Le Manslooks like the Batmobile, but uses lightweight, recyclable materials. Ahydrogen fuel-cell drivetrain propels it to take on a future 24 Hoursof Le Mans, while molecular nanotechnology allows lightweightconstruction.
Thumbs up: Motors in each wheel assist the hydrogen powertrain, effectively creating AWD.
Thumbs down: Drivers must lie flat on their stomachs.
Audi Dynamic Space Frame: The Space Frame has built-in channels tofacilitate an elaborate drive-by-fluid system. That’s right: Instead ofa traditional mechanical linkage between the steering and the wheels,there’s a fluid coupling. The car’s suspension also features liquidportions that are electrically charged to alter the car’s ride.
Thumbs up: The minimal overhangs and gigantic wheels project an athletic stance.
Thumbs down: The suspension concept exists today, but the fluiddriveshaft seems like a giant torque converter – hardly the stuff ofefficiency.
Hummer O2: GM’s California design studios say the O2 has a netpositive effect on the environment thanks to its algae-filled panels,which turn carbon dioxide into oxygen. Other features include a fuelcell drivetrain and parts made from post-consumer recycled materials.
Thumbs up: Hydraulic motors power all four wheels, and carbon dioxide from each motor is routed toward the algae.
Thumbs down: The algae need to be changed annually. We doubt Jiffy Lube will offer a $29.99 special.
Honda Extreme: Honda’s Extreme can take on different forms – from apickup truck to a low-slung sports car – thanks to interchangeable bodypanels. After five years, the polycarbonate chassis can be recycled.
Thumbs up: Evolving body styles on the same car? Sign us up.
Thumbs down: Sheet-metal makeovers come courtesy of HondaSustainability Centers, which look like miniature airport terminalswith hokey status readouts like “transforming” and “transformationcomplete.”
Mercedes-Benz RECY: The RECY, an open-air roadster that looks likeit took a few cues from the 1980s SL, offers wood, alloy, glass andrubber materials said to be 100 percent recyclable. A BlueTec dieselengine provides power. Design inspiration came from wooden yachts andsunglasses, Mercedes says.
Thumbs up: Unlike many objects of automotive inspiration, thesethings actually show up in the concept. The two-frame windshield lookslike a pair of Oakleys, and the body has a nautical profile.
Thumbs down: A long aluminum brace splits the two seats. Seems like it could put a crunch on shoulder room.
MINI Biomoke: The Biomoke sports biodegradable paneling infused withpalm tree seeds. When the car expires, the panels compost and the seedssprout. There are no windows – Mini says the open-air cockpit is bestfor Southern California’s temperate climate. And like Mini’s real cars,the Biomoke’s exterior can be customized to fit its owner’s tastes.
Thumbs up: We’re still chuckling about the palm tree seeds.
Thumbs down: Temperate climate notwithstanding, a mile on the 405 without a windshield could bury drivers in grit.
Kia Sandstorm: Kia says its two-seat runabout can hit the beach ornavigate through highway traffic. Its aluminum safety cage protectsoccupants, while cargo space can accommodate a barbecue. Power comesfrom a biodiesel hybrid engine with plug-in electric capability andrecyclable batteries.
Thumbs up: It looks like a genuine dune buggy, so it’s sure to be a hit at the beach.
Thumbs down: We’re all for minimizing waste, but having detachable recycling bins inside the cabin seems a bit overboard.
Toyota RLV: The Renewable Lifestyle Vehicle seats two, one behindthe other. Power comes from an electric powertrain or bicycle-stylepedals, the latter for situations like bumper-to-bumper traffic. Apop-up roll cage and active headrests aim to protect occupants during arollover, and the floorboard is made from bamboo and aluminum.
Thumbs up: Pedaling recharges the battery, and the wheels telescope outward for better high-speed stability.
Thumbs down: Since you’re giving him a lift, there ought to be an extra set of pedals for the passenger.
Volkswagen Nanospyder: The Nanospyder uses billions of spore-likenanobots – complete with eyeballs, mouths and tiny VW logos – that bindtogether to create the vehicle. Impending collisions can be picked upby the lead bots, and the information can be sent elsewhere to bolstercertain sections of the vehicle.
Thumbs up: Hands down, Nanospyder is the coolest name here.
Thumbs down: Stability depends on these little critters gettingalong. What happens when you’re doing 65 on an overpass and the botsholding the wheels together decide to mutiny?
After Clarkson took the Tesla round the track, James May, Top Gear's Captain Slow, spent time with the Honda FCX Clarity, or, as he calls it, "The Most Important Car in 100 Years."
