Automotive Insider

Coolest Concept Cars of 2010

Major car manufacturers and small boutique designers alike come out almost every year with concept cars, automobiles combining either practical elements that might eventually find their way into the mainstream or wholly dreamlike elements that will never see the light of day in major manufacture.

A big factor in concept cars these days is fuel-efficiency and smaller cars with roomy interiors. On the opposite end of the spectrum however, expect over-the-top luxury and incredibly luxurious interiors and exteriors.

Included in this year’s line-up for 2010 are a BMW Concept Gran Coupé, manufactured for the Chinese market. It’s a high-end 5 series couple that incorporates the absolute finest in quality elements the manufacturer could incorporate.

There’s a Maybach Sedan that includes new LED technology for interesting and practical lighting elements all over the car. There’s an edition with reclining rear seats and crystal Swarovski design elements, for those who want the sort of luxury more typically associated with higher end car designers.

Among the crazy/sporty entrants is a new Lamborghini Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce. This superfast, sports dream is limited to only ten numbered cars. That means while the chances of getting one are slim, the bragging rights associated with having a car like this in the garage will be substantial.

Bentley’s offering to the concept market are two new Continental models, which have been designed and engineered exclusively for the Chinese market. Bentley’s sales have become very strong in this market, and along with most majors, they’re looking for even stronger sales in 2010.

GM has a fuel-efficient entry, with is Cruze and New Sail. The Volt is an all-electric vehicle which will debut in 2011. The Voltec propulsion system offers gas- and tailpipe emissions-free electric driving. This is really a ‘green’ car that people can feel good about driving – and not a moment too soon.

Ford’s Start Concept car is also offering up a fuel-efficient new engine technology that promises power without sacrificing ecology. It’s tiny, and has a deceptively roomy interior.

Also look for entrants from Mercedes (the Shooting Break) and Volkswagen will be introducing its first production electric cars in 2013. The electric car is a big theme this year, and with good reason. Consumers have been demanding electric and hybrid options ever since gas began to skyrocket in 2007.