Samsung SM5: preview sketch

Samsung Motors, the South Korean subsidiary of Renault, has released an official sketch of the next generation SM5 sedan. Compared with the SM3 model, the SM5 has larger dimensions - a length of 4.9 meters and a wheelbase of more than 2.8 meters - which will allow the car to offer a spacious cabin.

The SM5, will probably provide the basis for the next generation Renault Safrane flagship model, which will replace the Vel Satis and could debut at the 2010 aris Motor Show.

(Car Body Design's news)

Nissan Light Commercial EV sketch

Nissan has released a concept sketch of a light commercial electric vehicle based on the newly launched NV200.

The low-cost multi-purpose vehicle would allow ambulance drivers to drive directly into the hospital or van and taxi drivers to enter urban areas where CO2 emissions are restricted.

The van is one of four electric vehicles Nissan has announced for the future. At the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show, Carlos Ghosn, president and CEO of Nissan, said LEAF – the world’s first mass market affordable EV – will be launched in Japan and the US in late 2010, Europe in 2011 with global mass-marketing efforts to begin in 2012.

(Car Body Design's news)

Mitsubishi Compact Crossover: preview sketch

Mitsubishi has announced the introduction of its all-new Compact Crossover, previewed by a design sketch and based on the 2007 Concept-cX. The car will go on sale on February 2010 and will be focused on eco-friendly technologies.

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) has announced the forthcoming introduction of its all-new on-road Compact Crossover, to be retailed first in Japan from February 2010 onwards.

Derived from the 2007 Concept-cX show car, it is the latest development of MMC's mid-size global platform ("Project Global').

This product will support Mitsubishi Motors’ strategic shift from being an SUV-focused nameplate to a manufacturer of environment-friendly passenger cars & crossovers, with a presence in the “authentic off-roader” segment.

As such – and after i-MiEV – this on-road Compact Crossover will be the Corporation's next step towards lower impact vehicles.

The European premiere is scheduled for the 2010 Geneva Motor Show.

(Car Body Design's news)