CAR TALK
Running on bio, fast
Finland’s four-time world rally champion Juha Kankkunen has set a new world ice speed record by driving an all-wheel drive, 6-litre, 12-cylinder Bentley Continental Supersports convertible on the frozen Baltic Sea, off the coast of Finland. The Finn reached 205.48mph in the car, which was running on biofuel. One hundred examples of the world’s fastest convertible will be available to buy and the car will debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.
Hyundai’s new i40
This is Hyundai’s new i40 that will have its world premiere at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. The car is the Korean manufacturer’s first D-segment created specifically for the European market and was designed and engineered in Germany. The estate version seen here will be the first i40 available ahead of the saloon that will follow later in the year. Both cars will be available with a 1.7-litre diesel engine, which will emit just 113g/km of CO2.
Toyota’s EV
Toyota’s EV prototype, based on the current iQ model, will make its European debut at the Geneva motor show. Toyota has integrated an all-electric powertrain within the iQ by developing a flat, compact, lithium-ion battery that sits under the vehicle floor. Amazingly, this means interior space is the same as in the regular iQ. Range will be up to 65 miles and the car will be available to lease in 2012.