Shanghai Auto Show 2009: Guangzhou Honda Linian roadster concept

Guangzhou Honda surprised everyone at the Shanghai show with this tidy little roadster, its second Linian concept in as many years. While the 2008 Beijing show concept was a more pedestrian five-door, this two-seat droptop has us wishing for a proper S2000 successor. Oh, one can quibble over some of the design details (oversized grille element, the showcar-only airplane yoke-style steering wheel, etc.), but fundamentally this is an interesting package.Sadly, according to our compatriots at Autoblog Simplified Chinese, Honda's domestic partner was mum on specifics, including driveline configuration, powerplant, and so on. That said, the shape does look quite production friendly. Add in a stronger windshield header, some larger mirrors, and do away with that Knight Rider steering wheel, and the rest seems plausible enough.

Honda turns Element SUV into first-class transport for dogs

Honda Dog-Friendy Concept

Americans are mad about their dogs. With an estimated canine population of 75 million, the US pet products and services industry was worth £30 billion last year alone… Which might explain the thinking behind Honda’s Dog-Friendly concept, unveiled at the New York Motor Show this week.

Based on the US-only Element, the concept adds a raft of accessories to make Fido’s journey safer and more comfortable. A cushioned pet bed in the boot provides a secure and squishy place for your dog to lie down, while a pet-restraining basket can be fitted to the rear seats, too.

Other pooch-pampering add-ons include a rear ventilation fan, bone-patterned rubber floor mats and a retractable ramp for easier access to the cargo area.

The show car is only a trial project at present, but there are plans for the optional extras to go on sale in this Autumn.