the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept

After successful initial testing of the vehicle concept, the decision for a series-production vehicle was quickly made. The BMW i8 Concept is the next step in the evolution of the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept. The result: The most progressive and innovative sports car of its time. Its innovative plug-in hybrid concept combines the modified electric drive system from the BMW i3 Concept – fitted over its front axle – with a high-performance three-cylinder combustion engine producing 164 kW/220 hp and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) at the rear. Working in tandem, they allow the two drive systems to display their respective talents to the full, delivering the performance of a sports car but the fuel consumption of a small car.

http://www.google.com/imgres?um=1&hl=en&client=firefox-a&hs=EvJ&sa=N&tbo=d&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&biw=800&bih=461&tbm=isch&tbnid=1aZNKK997dPbIM:&imgrefurl=http://www.worldcarfans.com/112042443733/bmw-i8-concept-spyder-debuts-in-china---announces-edrive&docid=rBhpV3R1auna0M&imgurl=http://cdn3.worldcarfans.co/2012/4/24/big/92878679360626267.jpg&w=660&h=439&ei=uaDLUKvZHa7EiwKMuIHYBA&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=484&vpy=148&dur=5081&hovh=183&hovw=275&tx=217&ty=122&sig=111193758442730049663&page=5&tbnh=147&tbnw=214&start=44&ndsp=12&ved=1t:429,r:51,s:0,i:250

the Urban SUV Concept

Up until a few months ago, Honda was accused by many of being lethargic with the release of their products in terms of its competitors and of course the lack of a diesel option. Now, Honda has already launched their diesel based hatch and sedan; the Honda Brio and Amaze. Now to the question of new products; Honda has recently released a teaser image of their latest offering; the Urban SUV Concept. The image is not very clear on th details of the vehicle but with a little educated guessing we figured this to be the long promised Honda Jazz based SUV. The Urban SUV concept will be first showcased in the upcoming Detroit Motor Show to be held in January.

http://www.cardekho.com/india-car-news/honda-urban-suv-concept-teaser-image-9358.htm

801 TOWER

Chinatrust Bank has agreed to move its U.S. headquarters from Torrance to downtown Los Angeles.

The bank will rent two floors in 801 Tower, a company representative said. The high-rise is in the financial district north of Staples Center.

“We wanted to be in a major financial area,” said Brian Gregson, head of Chinatrust U.S.A.’s retail banking group. “This is the early stage of getting our ducks in a row to start some expansion.”

The bank’s name will be affixed on top of the 25-story tower at 801 S. Figueroa St., he said.

Taiwan-based Chinatrust has 12 branches in the United States, seven of which are in Southern California. The bank will move about 175 employees to the new headquarters by the middle of next year, Gregson said.

http://www.latimes.com/business/money/la-fi-mo-chinatrust-bank-headquarters-20121130,0,5588987.story