Aera Cadillac: Compressed Air Powered Car Prototype Introduced in Los Angeles

The Cadillac Aera (Aero + Era) launches Cadillac’s philosophy of “Art and Science” into new territory by taking an innovative and stylistic approach to ultra-light weight vehicle design.

It was designed by California-based General Motors Advanced Design Studio for the Design Challenge hosted at the 2010 LA Auto Show.

Aera is a 1,000 lb, 2+2 touring coupe, with a range of 1,000 miles and an advanced body structure based on a 3D lattice, mono-formed frame.

This polyhedral structure is inspired by similar configurations found in nature, for example inside the grouping of bubbles.
 
The structure is formed from unique, alloy semi-solid freeform manufacturing, which creates a naturally strong, extremely lightweight frame.

 All major body parts, including interior components, are “grown” into a single part lattice structure.

Honda Air Concept

Presented by Honda at the 2010 LA Design Challenge, the Honda Air Concept is a lightweight open four-seater with a compressed-air powertrain and an essential design inspired by modern roller coasters.
Created for the 2010 LA Design Challenge by the Honda Advanced Design Studio in Pasadena, CA, the Air concept is defined as “a vision of the future of lightweight and alternative fuel performance vehicles”.

Inspired by modern roller coasters and skydiving wing-suits, the Air is powered by a compressed air and pneumatic regulator system and has a total weight of 800 lb.

It utilizes turbo vacuums and external air-flow to regenerate tank pressure for extended range and increased boost for an estimated 100 miles.

The chassis doubles as the master tank and all components, including the seats, are mounted to the central chassis/tank to eliminate redundant structure and reduce overall weight.

The body features vegetable-based polymer panels and fairings.

The Air’s cockpit and package is aimed at maximizing the open air experience.

In order to save weight and increase performance, a hub-less wheel and drive system eliminates the use of heavy drive train components.

Additional weight savings are achieved thanks to the glass reinforced seating panels, urethane tire composition and skeletal sub-frame components.

The main tanks and reserves can be filled quickly and safely using a simple generator / air compressor at home or a tire filler at the local filling station.