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Published on February 27, 2008

The 2008 show attracted worldwide media attention for the debut of the world's cheapest car, the Bt80,000 Tata Nano. It's the product of Tata Group president Ratan Tata's dream that every Indian family be able to afford its own car. He's facing competition from Bajaj and their Bt100,000 car, but just imagine what the world will look like in 2010 when Tata plans to roll 10 million cars a year off its production line.

This issue dedicates space to the future of car interiors, something that carmakers need to study if they don't want to be left far behind. Some of the new designs dealt with are already in current models while others are still in the pipeline.

More predictions: In the next five years, expect your car keys to transform into yet another function on your mobile phone; then find out why headlight design could be vital if manufacturers want to attract discerning European customers.

Check out the latest car from Land Rover, aimed firmly at a niche market. The Land Rover LRX targets younger drivers more likely to be into hip-hop and bungy jumping than stately trips out to the countryside. Design director Gerry McGovern is a biker and was inspired by the Bianchi racing frame.

Then meet the four-wheeled stars of 2008. Lining up are the stronger, faster Ford Focus RS; the more intelligent BMW X6; the Porsche Panamera, the first four-door saloon that combines sports and limousine functions; the VW Scriocco; the four-seater Lotus Eagle sports car; the Ford Verve; the four-seater Ferrari 2+2 Coupe; and the Dodge Challenger.

Finally, get an introduction to those with a need for speed. The Thai Lotus Car Owners' Club holds regular events, and they are inviting everyone in the region to join in.

compiled by worm boy

The Nation