The 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show-Part One
The heart of any auto show is what’s new in vehicles that consumers can actually see, smell and touch at their neighborhood car dealership. To drive is what makes buying a vehicle such a worthwhile experience. Mobility is something we all assume as a basic right, much like having clean air to breathe or fresh water to drink used to be.
But if new vehicle introductions are at the heart of any auto show, concept vehicles are surely the soul. So it is that we always look forward to seeing what automotive manufactures have up their sleeve now, and the future vehicles and technologies designers envision may one day make it to market. With this in mind, Frankfurt, Germany welcomed journalists from around the world to the 62nd International Motor Show.
Mercedes-Benz
The theme of this year’s show was protecting the environment. No company more boldly declared their intention to make a difference than Mercedes-Benz. The “Road to the Future” took on spectacular proportions as in some ways the vehicles paraded across the stage played a supporting role to the dancers. Once under the lights as a group, however, it was impossible to not be impressed with what the inventor of the automobile presented.
A total of 19 vehicles offer both current and future potential to reduce emissions, lower fuel consumption and cause less stress on the planet. Of particular interest were the F 700 research vehicle and a total of eight BLUETEC vehicles including the new C-Class Estate, (wagon) and S 300 BLUETEC Hybrid. Both offer a unique approach to luxury motoring, with the later meeting all EU6 or BIN5 criteria across all 50 US states.
BMW
“One is the loneliest number that you’ll ever do”, or so the words say to a 70’s song made famous by Three Dog Night. In the case of BMW, the new 1 Series is sure to be a friend to many the moment it arrives.
Making its worldwide debut, the BMW 123d showcased a twin turbo diesel engine rated at 204 horsepower. Taking inspiration from the legendary BMW 2002, North America should see the base 128i and top-of-the-line twin-turbocharged, gasoline powered 135i as early as next year. Designed to reach a new market for BMW, the 1 Series will appeal to buyers who may have stayed away from the brand due to its relatively high entry price.
Possessing slightly less tech, but just as much power as the larger 3 Series Coupe, the new price leader for BMW in North America has a proven track record in Europe with both 3-door and 5-door models being available. Expect high quality and demand as a more affordable BMW takes aim at the Japanese automakers who have dominated this segment of the market for the past few decades.
