If NAIAS 2010 is remember for a theme in the European community, it will definitely be remembered as the year of the electric car concept.  As with years past, general themes start to emerge.  In 2009 we saw a lot of green cars, literally green cars.  Painted green to signify their "green" effort, many manufactures apparently had the same idea.  This year, for "ze Germans" at least, the appearance of an emerging trend is no different; electric drive.

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If NAIAS 2010 is remember for a theme in the European community, it will definitely be remembered as the year of the electric car concept.  As with years past, general themes start to emerge.  In 2009 we saw a lot of green cars, literally green cars.  Painted green to signify their "green" effort, many manufactures apparently had the same idea.  This year, for "ze Germans" at least, the appearance of an emerging trend is no different; electric drive.

BMW and Audi both unveiled full electric vehicles, with Volkswagen premiering a full electric Hybrid (full electric hybrid meaning it can run strictly on battery power); and luckily each unique in its own way.  

The effort from BMW came in the form of the Concept Active E, an all electric version of the current 1-series.  With an entirely new electric drivetrain retaining the rear wheel drive essence of BMW, this promises to be [hopefully] a more fun iteration of the all electric car when it hits public streets later this year.   The Concept Active E will join the MINI E as part of BMWs ongoing real world study of all electric vehicles.

Joining the game of all electric vehicles is Audi.  Premiering its second all electric vehicle concept, the first concept appearing at the LA Auto Show last December, Audi is taking the route that not all electric cars have to be boring.  With 1200 ft*lbs of torque, a 0-60 time in the 5 second range, and a chassis based on the R8 supercar, Audi is out to make a Sport Electric.

 

Not to be outdone by it's sister company, Volkswagen rolled out the NCC (New Concept Coupe), not to be confused with the NCC-1701 for all you Trekkies out there.  The NCC is a "sport coupe" iteration of the full electric hybrid.  With the ability to run purely on battery power, Volkswagen hopes to take on the full hybrid market with this "sporty" coupe.  With stats like a combined rating of 45 mpg, 0-60 mph in 8.1 seconds, and a top speed of 141 mph, Volkswagen's aim is to make a realistic, yet fun and affordable full hybrid.