BOLOGNA, Italy -- An all-electric all terrain vehicle, hybrid retrofitted racecars and clutch-free engine shifting are part of a new exhibit at this year’s Autopromotec trade show.

The Futurmotive display includes distinct areas that educate attendees on alternative fuels, hybrid technology and new systems that help drivers save fuel and increase performance. These innovations, amid the backdrop of one of the world’s largest auto equipment and service events, include a prototype of the Fiat Panda that runs on a hydrogen-methane fuel blend, and the high-performance Bizzarrini P538 Eco Targa Florio, a staid Italian vehicle that’s been given new eco-friendly life with electronic components, hybrid technology and alternative fuel compatibility.

The display also features an electric ATV, whose rugged four-wheel drive structure relies on two electric motors for its all terrain applications.  

“The electric vehicles for sure are the best solution,” admits Maurizio Paschero, from the POMOS Polo per la Mobilita Sostenibile (Center for Sustainable Mobility) at the University of Rome La Sapienza, which developed the concept car prototypes for the exhibit.

Vehicle technology of the future is on display in the Futurmotive section of Autopromotec 2009. Photo by Chris Miller.

Futurmotive plans to work with the traditional auto industry here to teach auto technicians and shop owners the importance of implementing these cutting edge technologies into their bays.

Start & Stop technology from Bosch and SKF’s electronic parking brake can be seen alongside the Magneti Marelli Free Choice roboticized gearbox, which is an electronic transmission control unit that automatically manages clutch and gear engagement, thus eliminating the clutch pedal in otherwise standard shift cars.

Check out more of our detailed coverage of Autopromotec 2009, which runs through May 24.