Auto shows around the world are as much about production cars as about concept vehicles. Futuristic design, advanced technology, avant garde styling — concept vehicles are all this and much more. But the one factor common to all concepts is that about less than half of them are translated into actual production vehicles. Nonetheless, concepts indicate the future of design and are used to measure customer reaction to new ideas.

The recent biannual Auto Expo in Delhi’s Pragati Maidan saw a convoy of concept cars being rolled out by major manufacturers. Here are a few that caught our eye:

HYBRID DEBUT

Maruti showed its “future-ready green technologies” in the form of the concept SX4 Hybrid, which is a full parallel hybrid concept with automated manual transmission (AMT). The car has been developed in-house, propelled by the government’s National Hybrid Propulsion Programme and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy Sources’ High Energy Density Battery Development Programme. Maruti will produce a fleet of the SX4 hybrid for the Commonwealth Games in October.

(Top) The Concept Fascination from Mercedes Benz; (above) the Concept rIII from Maruti

The system features an electric motor and twin clutches with advanced lithium-ion battery technology. The 1.2-litre petrol engine, 50kW electric motor and 5-speed AMT enhance fuel economy and lower emissions. The vehicle will also be capable of running solely on its electric motor.

Another concept from the Maruti stable is the Concept rIII, a next-generation compact Multi Purpose Vehicle. Concept rIII is aimed at joint families who need extra room but do not want to compromise on the ease of driving in congested urban environments. The Concept rIII has been designed by a young team of Maruti designers and took less than nine months to roll out.

SMALL WONDER

Honda world-premiered its New Small Concept, the first time the Japanese major has chosen India to unveil a concept car. The vehicle currently in development especially for the Indian market has a futuristic design with maximum cabin space. With its “man maximum-machine minimum” design principle, the concept vehicle is set on a wide platform for generous cabin space.

INDIA SPECIAL

Toyota’s much awaited small car was unveiled as a concept named Etios, with technology and features developed specifically for India.

The Etios Concept also world-premiered in India. Interior space, comfort and efficient mileage are what the company promises. Around 2,000 engineers in India and Japan worked on the project for over four years.

COOL COUPE

Occupying pride of place at the largest standalone luxury pavilion at the 10th Auto Expo was Concept Fascination from Mercedes Benz. Right at the entrance, this concept car dazzled visitors with its lines and fluidity. The elegant and sporty concept has a two-box design and the company is working on a “future E-Class Coupe”, previewed by this concept. Among its frills is a mini bar that unfolds at the touch of a button. Plus, there is special storage for your camera and binoculars.