2011 Detroit Auto Show Highlights Include Porsche Racing Hybrid

The North American International Auto Show, otherwise known as the 2011 Detroit Auto Show, previewed over 30 new vehicles Monday and Tuesday. The car show is open until January 23, open to the public now that the industry and press have had their peeks at the future of the automobile industry. Like any convention chock full of product releases, the Detroit Car Show launched and teased some vehicles that were more innovative or just plain more sexy than the competition.

Porsche 918 RSR

The Porsche 918 RSR won 'Best Concept' in the Eyes on Design Award at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show. Upping the sexy in environmental racing design, the 918 RSR one-seater uses the same drivetrain as the Porsche 911 GT3 hybrid.
This Porsche brings a combined 767 horsepower. The 6.2 liter V8 provides 563 horsepower, while the rest generates from two electric motors. Braking energy is stored in the flywheel accumulator and can do accessed by the driver for an eight second boost.

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell

Mercedes-Benz also combined sexy style with green technology, in a day-glo yellow emission-free gull-wing sports car. The result is the SLS AMG E-Cell, which wears its combined 525 horsepower four electric motors close to each wheel, to avoid lesser handling. Energy is stored in lithium ion batteries, which can receive a boost from braking energy between charges.

Hyundai Curb Concept

The Hyundai Curb Concept interprets its "Fluidic Sculpture" design into what can only be described as what a really cool athletic shoe would look like as a Urban Activity Vehicle (UAV). Like those same sneakers, the new Hyundai is build with endurance and high style in mind. The 22-inch five-spoke wheels are covered with custom Michelin tires with a golden yellow colored tread pattern. The curvy sleekness is intended for younger buyers--as is the new Hyundai Blue Link™ and vehicle connectivity technology--and it shows. Funky, yes, definitely fitting for an urban concept car.

2012 Chevrolet Sonic

The new Chevrolet Sonic sedans and hatchbacks are trying to borrow a little sex appeal from the Corvette, with vice president of Chevrolet marketing, Chris Perry hailing that, "The all-new Chevrolet Sonic blends the practicality of a small car with the passion for driving that Chevrolet vehicles like the Corvette are known for." It's not a random association, as Corvette engineers fine-tuned the Sonic's drive and handling.

More than anything, the Chevy Sonic is meant to banish thoughts of the Aveo--the horrid car it replaces--from consumers' minds. In design, it appears to be a job well done.