Mercedes F600 concept

Mercedes-Benz has released pictures of their F600 Hygenius, designed in their advanced studio in Yokohama. It is the latest in a series of research vehicles by DaimlerChrysler that encase their latest technologies: appropriately, the fuel cell is the focus this time. The car is proportionally similar to the B-Class, with gawky graphics blending windows with headlamp lenses. Inside, the extra glass drops almost to the H-point, giving a particularly airy atmosphere, while under the hood technology has progressed, Mercedes adopting the hybrid direction Toyota uses on the Fine-X. This places the fuel cell alongside a powerful lithium-ion battery. Power is now up to 115PS, answering criticism mounted against the low power output of previous incarnations – though the additional battery and glass means the F600 is no lightweight.

Lexus GS450

Lexus continues to meld their design strategy, L-finesse, and hybrid technology with the unveiling of the flagship to the GS range, the GS450h. A 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine is mated with an electric motor to give a combined output of 340PS, a conceivable output of a 4.5-litre engine, hence the name. However, the GS's frugality of a typical 2-litre completes their argument against conventional powertrains, and emissions are also down. Set for production next year, the GS450h joins the hybrid RX400h off-roader, while the upcoming LS will also use this technology to produce the equivalent of a 6-litre V12.

Daihastu UFE-III concept

'We do Compact!' screams the press release as Daihatsu unveil their latest cars. Alongside new production models is the UFE-III, first seen as the car-like UFE in 2001, and then two years ago as the UFE-II. Now reborn as the UFE-III, this imaginatively-named sequel is deliberately different, the form increasingly dictated by aerodynamics, as the drag coefficient is now down to 0.168.

Under the skin lurks a familiar 660cc K-class unit mated to twin electric motors, this hybrid source able to achieve over 170mpg. Further stemming the thirst is the low kerbweight of 440kg, while the package places occupants in a 1+2 layout, akin to the Nissan Pivo. Though impressive, Volkswagen will be pleased to see the economy from their equivalent 2002 model unthreatened: the so-called 1-litre car managed 285mpg, prolonging their reluctance to join the alternative-fuel race.

Audi Shooting Brake concept

Audi has revealed the Shooting Brake Concept, a three-door coupé-estate in the vein of the BMW M Coupé. Finished in Bionic White seemingly borrowed from Lamborghini, the Shooting Brake Concept previews the next TT, with less sombre surfaces, neatly avoiding direct comparison through its unique proportions.

The front evolves themes from the RSQ concept, though also bears a resemblance with the 1997 Pininfarina Nautilus, albeit with an egg-slice grille. At the back the trapezoidal rear screen visually connects with the lamps, isolating the intermediate surface. The car also showcases new technology, including intelligently conceived magnetic ride, with a more advanced touch screen monitor with character recognition.

Mini Concept Tokyo

Since its first outing in Frankfurt last month, the Mini Traveller has evolved, ready for the Tokyo Motor Show. Given the popularity of British culture in Japan – and the fact that its the fifth largest market for Mini – it makes sense to demonstrate how a Mini could be customised, as a further extenuating of giving the brand character. The theme for the car is modern Britishness, becoming almost a parody of itself. The sketch by designer David Beasley shows a mini-bar (get it?) in place of the quarter-lights, and a tea-set to appeal to both nations. The lime green trim on the picnic rug adds a contemporary touch in line with the Mini brand, though finding space in Tokyo to lay a rug out is another matter.

Toyota Fine-X concept

Designed in Toyota's advanced studio in Tokyo, the Fine-X continues to push the advantages the company sees fuel cells having over normal gasoline units. The packaging benefit for occupants is clear: despite a footprint of a Yaris, the interior space is that of an Avensis. Beyond this, however, is the unusual ability to spin on the spot, thanks to all four wheels articulated enough to turn at almost right-angles to the body, easing the job of parking. The exterior shows the latest expression of 'Vibrant Clarity', Toyota brand's design theme, although the deep, flat sides and thick C-pillars sit on a box, denying the technology the same appeal as given by the Honda FCX.

Toyota Estima concept

As one of Toyota's latest arsenal, the new Estima marks an interesting advancement in powertrains: it is a hybrid MPV, blending electric motors with fuel cells, instead of the petrol units on current hybrid cars. Already pushing petrol hybrids in Toyota and Lexus cars, this new combination brings fuel cell-only cars one step closer. Inside the Estima has an androgynous dashboard, symmetrical for cheaper RHD-LHD conversions, while outside the DRG abandons conventional grilles in favour of a Honda-like light-band, the beaked expression similar to a Pontiac.

Toyota i-swing concept

This latest one-person car concept by Toyota confirms their commitment to this concept, a means for personal expression as much as movement. Also designed in Tokyo, the forms are more fluent than before, especially at the rear. Hard plastics make way for softer fabrics on the exterior, as the clothing theme becomes increasingly transparent. This 'personal mobility vehicle' is well suited to built-up areas and pedestrian zones, able to rear up so that the user's face is on the same level as a pedestrian's. It also has a 'pedal mode', operated as if a pair of skis. From any other company, the i-swing might be more easily dismissed as a fantasy, but coming from Toyota, it is more unnerving; rivals may want to take note.

Nissan Foria concept

The Nissan Foria is a compact 2+2 coupé with a front-mid engine and rear wheel drive, which is explicitly communicated in the cab-back styling. Access through the B-pillarless apertures invites comparison with the Mazda RX-8, as Nissan attempt to appeal to the aspiring everyman. Despite the parallel concepts, a three-box body and more masculine styling distinguishes the Foria, putting it closer to what a small Lincoln could look like, with sheer surfaces and a horizontal theme.

Inside, the styling is more organic, and the door trim is comparable to the Mini Traveller concept, whereby all features are contained within an ovoid graphic. Though aspects appear familiar, the Foria tidily combines zeal with rationality.

Nissan Amenio concept

The Nissan Amenio is a large MPV proposal that advances the company’s ‘Modern Living’ concept. Despite cuboid volumes, surfaces are confident and dynamic, with a break in the shoulder behind the driver’s door similar to the Citroën C-Sportlounge concept.

Inside it is gentler, the design focussed on providing a relaxing journey for the six occupants. References to aeroplanes are often made by car companies justifying expensive minivans, and Nissan is no exception, except in this case the claim seems completely unreasonable: the front four seats are huge, with incorporated leg rests and trim that extends under the calves for optimum comfort when travelling. Though intended to have worldwide appeal, Nissan still infuses Japanese DNA, using the rosewood on the IP, while subtle contrasts in trim textures help substantiate Nissan’s premium-market goals.

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