USA / Global
March 1, 2016
Tech analysis: F1 teams unleash updates as final test begins
F1 technical experts Giorgio Piola and Matt Somerfield guide you through Day 1 of the second week of Barcelona testing, as the clock ticks down towards Melbourne. Formula 1 returned to action at Barcelona on Tuesday as teams began work in the second and final pre-season test. Despite only a few days since the first test finished, the updates and developments kept on coming as teams sought out performance gains and worked on solutions to problems that came up last week.
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![IED Shiwa concept is a futuristic, autonomous EV [video]](https://cdn.motor1.com/images/mgl/BBvb4/s4/ied-shiwa-concept1.jpg)
IED Shiwa concept is a futuristic, autonomous EV [video]
The IED Turin and Quattroruote have unveiled the Shiwa concept at the Geneva Motor Show. Named after the Japanese word for "fold," the Shiwa was created by Youngjin Shim and eleven other students who are completing their master's degree at the university. As the name suggests, the model draws inspiration from origami and features a diamond-shaped exterior which is constructed of a "metal composite material" that has been given an aluminum finish. The concept has also been equipped with LED headlights and an exterior OLED display that indicates the charging level of the car's batteries. More notably, since the car was envisioned as an autonomous vehicle, designers were free to eschew a windscreen and side windows.
Porsche 718 Boxster marks the return of four-cylinder sports cars
Porsche is making a return to four-cylinder sports cars by introducing the new 718 Boxster at the Geneva Motor Show. Essentially a facelifted and renamed version of the previous model, the 718 Boxster features a modestly revised front fascia and bi-xenon headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights. The car has also been equipped with revised side skirts, larger air intakes, and three-dimensional LED taillights that are separated by an accent strip with "Porsche" lettering.
Maserati Levante arrives in Geneva with up to 430 hp
Following a preview last month, Maserati has officially unveiled the Levante crossover. Billed as the "Maserati of SUVs," the Levante has an aggressive front fascia which a prominent grille that is flanked by slender Bi-Xenon headlights and round fog lights. The model also has a rakish windscreen, front fender vents, and muscular rear haunches. Other notable highlights include a sloping roofline, “Saetta” badges on the C-pillar, and an assortment of wheels ranging in sizes from 18- to 21-inches.
Fiat 500S facelift unveiled in Geneva
The Geneva Motor Show continues as Fiat has taken the wraps off the facelifted 500S. Designed to appeal to buyers looking for a sportier appearance, the 500S features unique bumpers, special side skirts, and a larger rear spoiler. The model has also been equipped with fog lights, mesh grille inserts, and "Satin Graphite" accents on the mirrors and door handles. Last but not least, there's rear privacy glass and a chrome exhaust tip.
