Despite its monstrous...
Despite its monstrous size and appearance, early indications suggest the new R-Class really is very good indeed. Predictably, other car manufacturers are keen to join the battle for sales in this emerging sector. BMW is developing a rival in the shape of the V5, while Audi"s Q7 goes on sale soon. Vauxhall is the first of the volume manufacturers to commit so openly to the new class - so is it expecting to do battle with Germany"s finest? The simple answer is no - Vauxhall simply wants to try something new in a tough sector of the market.
Conceived as a mobile...
Conceived as a mobile working environment for scientists, geologists and adventurers, the Terranaut is designed for the most challenging environments on the planet. Its cabin carries three people - a driver, passenger and scientist working in a rear lab or computer room. It will feature a computer console, as well as communications and analysis kit.
London-based Nissan Design Europe focused on function when building the car. Project leader Felipe Roo Clefas explained: "The Terranaut is intended for study in all four corners of the world."
To accommodate the work area, the passenger side has one door, while the other flank gets a pair of swing doors, but no central B-pillar. The 19-inch wheels are clad in special Goodyear tyres. These are puncture-proof, and function as normal road items - but by changing the air pressure, can be transformed into chunky rubber for off-tarmac work.