The future of the car takes shape

The future of the automobile is up for grabs, and no one is more aware of this than the car industry.

So says the Canadian International AutoShow's general manager, Tom Tonks.

Changes in the economy and in consumer lifestyle choices have dictated a new mandate to world automakers, Tonks says, adding that the industry needs to "create solutions that meet an entirely new set of criteria."

We have entered a new automotive era that will be characterized by innovation, experimentation and the introduction of new technologies at a breathtaking pace.

Which is why the auto show's reprisal of the GTA in Motion exhibit, which made its debut at the show last year, is so timely.

The show gives visitors a look at alternatives to the automotive status quo that might become reality in the near term and the more distant future.

For starters, expect electricity to play a major role in our automotive future. It's front and centre in the GTA in Motion exhibit, whose theme is "The Future Is Electric."

But rather than simply showcasing stylish concept cars that will attract attention but accomplish little, GTA in Motion is intended to help explain the various technologies that are here now – or will be within a few years.

Through presentations and displays, the exhibit addresses the future of the automobile and the challenge of urban transportation.

A series of signboards helps guide visitors along both the exhibit and the pathway to future electric-vehicle technologies, from today's hybrids to tomorrow's plug-in hybrids to the fuel-cell electrics of the day after tomorrow.

The journey from here to there has already begun, but it is important to note that the progression will not be serial – that is, one form will not replace the other but they will exist in parallel, each new form adding to those already in use.

So by 2020 or 2025, we'll probably have a mix of hybrids, plug-ins and fuel cell electric vehicles on our road, in addition to vehicles with internal-combustion engines. And there will be variations of each.

There are already, for example, many variations on the hybrid theme. Not all hybrids use the same technologies. Not even close.

Similarly, plug-in vehicles will include plug-in variants of conventional hybrids – such as a converted Toyota Prius that is part of the exhibit.

But they will also include totally different concepts.

One of those is the Chevrolet Volt, which is a series hybrid (the gasoline engine is not mechanically connected to and never directly drives the wheels).

They will also include pure battery-powered electric vehicles, such as the Canadian-built ZENN on display – one of a sub-set of EVs limited to low-speed use in gated communities and on some low-speed roadways.

Several manufacturers, however, are intent on building EVs that will be suitable for broad-based use, just like regular cars.

A key element in the practical development of plug-in vehicles of any type is the successful adaptation of lithium-ion battery technology for automotive use.

One of the vehicles on display has been converted by Mississauga-based Electrovaya to use lithium-ion batteries produced by that company.

Further Canadian content in the GTA in Motion exhibit is provided by automotive design students from Humber College, who have been charged with designing electric vehicles that will appeal to both young customers and mature drivers.

Their vehicles must also help relieve congestion and eliminate greenhouse gases in the GTA.

The challenge is huge – you can see what's involved at the GTA in Motion exhibit – and perhaps have a hand in designing a car of the future for yourself.

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