Top 5 Frankfurt Motorshow 2011

#3: Audi Urban Concept Vehicle

The Audi urban concept is an innovative 1+1 seat concept car, unveiled for the first time at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The sleek cockpit is made from CFRP, it has free-standing wheels with protective plates, an elaborate suspension and a compact electric drive system for sporty performance.

Its ideas are all visions for Audi’s future, and it should be interesting to see how many of these make it onto a ‘real’ Audi in the next few years.

#4: Ferrari 458 Spider

The “old” 458 turns into a Spider. The new V8 engine will take you from 0-100kmh (0-62mph) in 3.4seconds and it has a maximum speed of 320 kmh (nearly 200mph). The 458 Spider has a retractable aluminum roof that can be closed in under 15 seconds, Ferrari also say its wind deflector system allows you to have a normal conversation while driving with the roof off at 120mph.

Two problems: It is likely to cost about £190,000 and you will have to wait until next summer for it to arrive.

#5: smart electric drive – test drive

One of the highlights for me at the Motor Show was being able to test drive the Smart ED (electric drive), in reality, and for 30 minutes around the city of Frankfurt. I did it, and it was a pure JOY! So smooth, so fast, so small, so easy to park – perfect urban car! And this is one car we don’t have to wait too until the “future” before it arrives.

On sale from spring 2012 you can order your own smart ED for less than 16,000 euros (£13,000).

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