Don’t be surprised to find a new pickup at the Melbourne Motor Show which sports the logo of Volkswagen. If you do, then perhaps you have stumbled upon the new Volkswagen Pickup Concept which is bound to give other familiar pickups like the Hi-Lux and Navara a run for their money.

The Pickup concept previews the full production model that is currently in development. The 5.18 metre long concept vehicle is not based on any current model VW, but will feature the latest generation of highly advanced, torque strong, fuel saving common-rail turbo-diesels (TDI).

“The Volkswagen Pickup will certainly be a welcome and exciting fourth addition to our expanding range of light commercial vehicles,” commented Phil Clark, Director of Volkswagen Group Australia Commercial Vehicles. “Being the only premium European offering a product in the 1 tonne segment is a great opportunity for Volkswagen. I believe the Pickup will be one of the best selling models in the Volkswagen line-up.”

(Source) TMR

Continue reading...

How would you like to drive a car made out of seaweed? Would you feel eco-friendlier? Would you feel safer? What would you choose between a Prius or a seaweed car?

The seaweed car will be an ultralight hybrid ready to offer you a new driving experience while saving you some money on gas. Will bring you all the official details once we have them. And we’re probably going to have to wait about 10 years to get them. In the mean time you can always enjoy the 1/X eco-friendly hybrid which will be displayed at the Melbourne Auto Show.

via Wired

Continue reading...

After the successful debut of the Toyota Prius, it looks like Toyota Motors is taking it to the next level as it is reportedly planning the car of the future using bioplastic materials made from seaweed.

Named the 1/X (pronounced 1-x’th) after the fraction of its carbon footprint compared to other vehicles, the hybrid is greener than others not only because of it gas mileage: Compared to standard petroleum-based plastic, bioplastic allegedly produces up to 60 percent less carbon dioxide and uses about 30 percent less energy as well.

Toyota plans on presenting their 1/X concept car at the Melbourne Motor Show on Feb. 28, even though it could be another 15 years until this seaweed car actually makes it to production.

(Source) Wired

Continue reading...