So what does an auto show look like in the midst of one of the worst markets in history? Not so bad, actually. The 2009 New York Auto Show is looking like it will finish the season strong, with a handful of notable world debuts along with a dozen or so North American firsts.

Think SUVs are dead? Well, not quite. Acura, GMC and Land Rover have all come up with what they think are the next generation of SUVs. Smaller, more nimble and less painful at the pump, all-new vehicles from all three manufacturers will be making their world debuts in New York.

If you’re still not buying into the efficient, high-performance SUV thing, then look for the new 2010 Subaru Legacy. It’ll be shown for the first time in New York and is likely to have all the utility you’ll ever need. And for those who couldn’t care less about utility, Nissan will display the convertible version of its new 370Z coupe. Coverage starts April 8 with video, blogs and photos from the show floor.

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Many “next generation” gas-electric hybrids were unveiled. While dual-mode hybrids are efficient at stop and go traffic, they don’t quite add as much on the highways. A new concept plug-in hybrid from Saturn can potentially go for 10 miles on pure electric power, before needing to use gas.

But whether its battery technology, plugging into the grid, powering vehicles from solar, nuclear, or wind, all renewable fuels come into play. Automakers say that having a diverse set of alternatives is the best way to reduce our dependence on gasoline.

Produced for General Motors

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The GT-R’s new 3.8-litre twin turbo V6 “VR38″ engine features plasma-sprayed bores and a special twin-turbo exhaust manifold system. A secondary air management system enables the newly designed powerplant to provide approximately 40kg/m of torque during ordinary low-rev driving, giving an optimum air-fuel ratio for around-town efficiency. The new engine produces 480PS (353kW) at 6400rpm and a maximum torque of 60kgm (588Nm) from 3200 to 5200rpm. Also newly developed, the GR6-type dual clutch transmission features paddle shifting and a Borg Warner six-plate dual clutch for direct control.

Nissan has created every styling aspect to maximize the vehicle’s driving experience. The GT-R’s body is constructed with a combination of steel, carbon fiber and aluminum, providing a unique combination of stiffness and lightness. The car features a low coefficient of drag of 0.27, providing it with enhanced grip in all weather situations, while also enhancing fuel efficiency. The GT-R’s hallmark four-ring taillights, efficient rear spoiler and large, integrated 120mm-diameter exhaust tips, provides the signature rear view of the GT-R, as well as optimizing airflow along the top and under the vehicle.

Sculpted performance bucket seats give the driver and passenger a comfortable driving experience. The instrument panel that surrounds the driver has all meters and multi-function meter at a uniform height to minimize the driver’s head movement when traveling at high speeds. Each meter features a dial plate design that evokes the idea of engaged gears.

The GT-R’s list of safety and environmental features include, for enhanced visibility inside and out of the vehicle, high-mounted LED stoplamps, bright LED rear combination taillights, super wide beam headlights, heated door mirrors and flat-blade wipers. Standard safety equipment includes a pop-up engine hood system for enhanced pedestrian safety, driver and front passenger air bag system, and ELR front seat belts with tension reducer. The driver and front passenger side air bag system and curtain air bag system are offered as options.

The top-of-the-line GT-R Premium Edition is priced at 8,347,500 yen (US$72,000). Nissan is aiming to ship 200 units per month.

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Director: Joel Kenemore
Choreographer: Mike Weaver

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Related Link:
http://www.yamaha-motor.co.jp/global/motorshow2007/booth/
http://www.yamaha-motor.co.jp/global/news/2007/10/05/tms-mc.html

Pioneering a new type of vehicle, Yamaha has developed their four wheeled Tesseract which turns just like a motorcycle but has a Dual Scythe Suspension for improved safety.

Roughly the equivalent width of a regular motorcycle, the Tesseract is a hybrid vehicle powered by a liquid cooled V-twin 2 cylinder gasoline engine and an electric engine thus reducing emissions and protecting the environment.

With a mantis like appearance, the dual scythe suspension allows stable turning while still allowing for motorcycle like banking. Built into the upper arms of the vehicle is a dual arm lock system which lets the Tesseract stand upright when parked without a kick-stand.

Currently only a concept model, Yamaha plans to continue researching this design in the future.

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