Concept cars are getting tinier, greener and more fuel efficient. Volkswagen's latest concept, the UP! was displayed at the Frankfurt Auto Show and made a huge impression despite its ueber-mini design. In addition to VW, General Motors is also looking at reducing the size of future vehicles. GM's "triplets" include the Groove, Beat and Trax and "are even smaller than the new Agila being introduced by GM's European Opel division during the Frankfurt show," the Car Connection explains. GM$ will be introducing eight new Two-Mode hybrids this year. Early hybrids "work best in stop-and-go city traffic," but the new technology "promises to boost fuel economy on the open highway, as well."
"Anyone who wanders through the nearly dozen different display halls at the Frankfurt Messe will likely come away convinced that in an era of record-high fuel costs and mounting worries about global warming, small is the big theme for automakers around the world."
Pint-Sized Concepts
GM Triplets & VW Up!
Trend Themes
1. Tinier Concept Cars - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore the development of ultra-compact electric vehicles for urban commuters.
2. Green and Fuel Efficient Cars - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Invest in the research and production of environmentally-friendly vehicles with improved fuel economy.
3. Hybrid Technology Advancements - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop hybrid systems that optimize fuel efficiency on both city streets and highways.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive Industry - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Embrace the trend of smaller, greener cars by offering a wider range of compact and eco-friendly vehicle options.
2. Electric Vehicle Industry - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Capitalize on the demand for compact electric cars by developing innovative EV models tailored for urban environments.
3. Hybrid Vehicle Industry - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Lead the market by creating hybrid technologies that deliver superior fuel efficiency across various driving conditions.