Words by Gordon Welsh (Auto Editor)
(Click on Image for full review)
Gordon Welsh (Auto Editor)
Almost every vehicle that crossed my path this year had a common theme: sustainability. This year’s cars and motorcycles weren’t so much about the vehicle itself but rather how it was powered.
Over the last decade, horsepower wars between elite manufacturers reigned supreme. While producers constantly upped the ante, efficiency was merely an afterthought. This year showed us a different side of the industry, however. With gas prices still outrageous and our economy freefalling, carmakers began to churn out likable, earth-friendly vehicles. While this in and of itself wasn’t so revolutionary, this year marked the first time that some of these vehicles actually made it to production. Everyday cars like the Nissan Leaf will shortly be gracing our roads; the terrific thing about the Leaf is that, as opposed to the Chevrolet Volt (whose production has been pushed back every quarter since the Bush administration, it seems), it is affordable, practical, and looks like any Japanese subcompact. The Tesla Roadster established itself as a relatively affordable electric supercar, and has been tested through the roof, to much success, by numerous publications. The Leaf and the Roadster are still the exception rather than the rule, but they mark a point in time where a dream came quickly to fruition, with outstanding results. They are perfect examples of a job done right.
Design, of course, went hand-in-hand with these dramatic new offerings. This year’s creations seemed intent on drawing attention, rather than serving as functional bodywork and accessories. In my interview with Mercedes’ head of design, Gorden Wagener, the question was raised: why does every green car have to look like a green car? Gorden felt, and I concur, that such styling will ultimately be unnecessary. Without a doubt, the aesthetics of many of this year’s cars seemed forced. Certainly yes, there are simple modifications that result from, for example, having an all electric car (for example, less vents due to less heat dissipation from the motor, compared to a gas-powered engine). I suppose that in some cases, companies may want to raise awareness about a new vehicle or a new method of powering a vehicle; if this is so then I can see the case for some cars being styled the way they are. But, once these cars become more common, I think we will come to realize that they are at least mildly overdone. I hope that in 2010 automakers will come to their senses and bring cars to the board that look good and are still considered ‘green.’
I think one should truly enjoy driving at all times, and that when possible, we should drive cars that inspire us and make us smile. Having said that, I think vehicles like the Veritas RSIII, Alfa 8C Spyder, and the Morgan Aeromax Supersports have to point to carmakers who feel the same way. I realize they’re not the most practical of vehicles, but their wicked combination of style and performance leave almost nothing to be desired. Sustainability aside, I think these cars point to the fact that there are still inspired companies out there, and inspriation is what I would like to see in the upcoming year.
In the last few months I’ve read that many companies have cut back on funding and production for smart diesels and other clever vehicles. This would lead me to believe we should expect the same old bland production vehicles in 2010, but I’m hoping this isn’t the case. I’m looking forward to more diesel production from luxury manufacturers like BMW (the 335d is simply outstanding), Audi, and Mercedes, who already have a bevy of terrific cars in their fleet and will add several more throughout the year. I’m excited at the prospect of the Mini Coupe and the Mercedes BlueZero, and other affordable, efficient, and inspired cars. Who knows, 2010 might even be the year Chevy finishes the Volt!
