Karma's SC1 Concept is following a trend for cars with amazing doors. California-based Karma Automotive has drawn inspiration from the local landscape for this model as well as from aviation for the concept which was launched at the recent New York motorshow. The Karma SC1 Vision Concept’s paint is said to capture the stunning color of California sunsets.
The Karma’s patented “wing” doors are inspired by a fighter jet cockpit. "Its “wings” required us to develop an articulating hinge so the doors could gently rise up and forward, and rotate around the front wheels. After engineering the doors, we realized we had unused space between the front axle and passenger cell, so we created a hidden, built-in storage compartment behind the driver-side door, complete with tailor-fit luggage.
“When you watch the doors open, it gives you goosebumps … it gave me chills the first time I saw them open. The doors are really special, inviting you into the experience you’re going to have," said Jacques Flynn, Karma Automotive Concept Design Manager.
The Karma SC1 also uses some unusual materials - rubber neoprene is used on some surfaces, inspired by California’s surf culture — bonded with gentle Italian cashmere. The varnished, waxed edges of SC1 Vision’s seats are threaded with impossibly thin, LED-lit fiber and the sides of the soft leather seats are finished in elegantly laced hides. Several interior structures, including the center are made from chopped carbon fiber flakes; each piece is molded by hand.
Thanks to eight radars, six Lidar sensors, and a half dozen external cameras, the SC1 Vision Concept will be capable of Level 4, fully autonomous driving.
Mint Concept
Genesis also launched the Mint Concept at the New York International Auto Show. The company describes it as an 'all-electric, luxury car for the city, a new vehicle typology, featuring organic design and an innovative interior user experience'.
Koenigsegg
Supercars like to have super unusual doors this Koenigsegg hypercar is extraordinary, right down to its ‘dihedral synchro-helix doors’.
Cadillac
Not so recent but still rather stunning is the Cadillac Ciel concept of 2011: a four-door convertible that was “the ultimate open-air expression of American luxury”. At the back you’ll find a pair of large rear-hinged doors, providing access to a pair of individual bucket seats.
Rezvani Motors
You've got to love a car that's called Beast - this is the Beast Alpha with its trademark ‘SideWinder doors’. With 500hp and a 0-60mph time of 3.5 seconds you can see how it got its name.
