1. Ford S-MAX
Ford has just revealed the Ford S-MAX concept and it will be showcased at Frankfurt early September. The concept features a bolder front end with chrome detailing and raked back headlights. It’s based on the same platform as the next generation Mondeo and is likely to use a range of turbocharged EcoBoost petrol and TDCi diesel engines. A hybrid version is also a possibility with prices expected to start in the region of £23,000.
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Full story: New Ford S-MAX turns on the style
2. Nissan Autonomous drive
Nissan has confirmed plans to introduce autonomous drive cars to the new automobile market by 2020. The producer has practically completed the construction of an autonomous proving ground in Japan, which will enable these automobiles to be evaluated to the limit in the safest possible environment. A labyrinth of laser scanners, 360-degree view cameras, actuators and synthetic intelligence will help the automobile navigate and assess its surroundings, in essence making the chauffeur a passenger in their own car.
Full story: Nissan to introduce autonomous drive by 2020
3. Peugeot 208 FE Hybrid
Peugeot had a busy week revealing another Frankfurt debutant, this time the Peugeot 208 FE Hybrid. using the conventional 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine from the 208 VTi, the FE hybrid model is twinned with a 40bhp electric motor, resulting in emissions of only 49g/km of CO2. It’s capable of covering 0-62mph in eight seconds and can run purely on electric power for 12 miles. The FE hybrid is a full carbon fibre construction to keep weight down, shedding practically 200kg from the conventional 208’s kerb weight. However, there has been some fairly substantial sacrifices in purchase to reach those headline figures, including a lack of air-con, power steering, assisted brakes and a smaller 20-litre fuel tank.
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