BMW Maasaica

It may never end up on a showroom floor, but this concept car takes vehicle design and production to a whole new level. Working in partnership with BMW, Swedish designer Erik Melldahl sought to design a sustainable vehicle for emerging markets. The result is the Maasaica, a “contextual concept” that is assembled by members of the Maasai tribe in Africa’s Serengeti region. The sheet metal is formed by a mixture of mycelium mushrooms and grass that grows upon a 3-D-printed frame over the course of several days. 

Aston Martin DP-100

The Aston Martin DB5 holds a special place in the hearts of James Bond fans for its appearance in 1964’s “Goldfinger” and its return in the series’ latest entry, “Skyfall.” Aston Martin’s newest concept, the DP-100, could convince 007 to trade up. Created using the full range of techniques applied in the development of the OEM’s production sports cars — including hand sketches and 3-D modeling — the DP-100 was unveiled at the 2014 Goodwood Festival of Speed. 

Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge

Although still considered a concept vehicle, the Q50 Eau Rouge will probably make it to the production line. The only obstacle is the projected $100,000 price tag, which would make it the most expensive Infiniti to date and limit annual production to less than 500 units. Named after a high-speed corner of the famed Spa-Francorchamps race circuit in Belgium, the Q50 Eau Rouge would boast aerodynamic carbon-fiber bodywork and at least 500 horsepower at 600 pound-feet of torque.