|
|
|---|
Thursday, October 28, 2010
The specification of 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X SE are a predictable blend of GSR and MR kit, including a GSR front fascia and black vents. along with an MR rear diffuser and upgraded Bilstein shocks. Inside, cloth Recaros come standard – our preferred choice compared to the MR’s leather-lined thrones. – autoblog.com
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X SE
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X SE
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X SE
They have also included some pins between the wheels (of TRAK, you can see on the image side quite well) that reduces the distance between the tire and the body (or, more precisely, between the tire and fender area), reducing turbulence in the area and improving the performance also when riding fast. Logically, the downside is that it also significantly reduces off-road capability of the Juke.
Nissan Juke 2011
Nissan Juke 2011The Juke, as did his brother the Qashqai, is reaping many best sellers, despite his short life and nel market. Japan has been quantified in 20,000 requests, while in the U.S. since it went on sale (early month) already has 17,500 orders.
In Europe we find a range of engines of 190 hp with 240 Nm of torque, 1.6-liter gasoline and a model 117 hp with 157 Nm and the same cylinder, in diesel engine there is a 1.5 liter dCi with 110 hp and 240 Nm of torque. In the United States currently offer only the variant of 190 hp turbo gasoline.
Nissan Juke 2011
Nissan Juke 2011Sunday, October 24, 2010
Lamborghini Sesto Elemento Paris Motor ShowIf you're a car fanatic then undoubtedly you'll have been keeping a close eye on the 2010 Paris Motor Show. The place to see all the latest concept cars, the Paris Motor Show is the best place to see some truly amazing cars, of which a few become reality and will be pushed into production sometime in the future.
If you were unfortunate enough to miss this year's event, here's a little look at some of the cars that made the headlines.
Jaguar C-X75 - definitely one of the show stoppers at this year's event. The Jaguar C-X75 is driven by four in-wheel electric motors as well as twin jet turbines. A futuristic car, the C-X75 provides 780bhp, 1,180lbft of torque, and with a 560-mile range of which 68 miles are possible on battery power alone, this Jag is certainly a spectacular piece of machinery.
Lotus Esprit - Lotus were definitely aiming to steal the limelight this year and with no less than five high performance cars on show, they certainly made a huge impression. Equipped with a 5.0-litre V8 engine providing 620bhp, the Esprit manages 0-63mph in just 3.4 seconds. And a top speed of 205mph.
Lamborghini Sesto Elemento - weighing just 999kg, the Lamborghini Sesto Elemento is powered by a 570bhp V10. Achieving 0-62mph is just 2.5 seconds; the Sesto Elemento is certainly a rocket!
Range Rover Evoque - Range Rover's are famous for their heritage and the Evoque is without doubt futuristic looking. Deliveries of the Range Rover Evoque will start around summer 2011, with a five-door version to be unveiled later in 2010.
Lexus CT200h - Hybrid is definitely in at the moment and but it's only a matter of time before people become bored of the Toyota Prius. The Lexus CT200h is a premium hybrid that is trendy and hits 96g/km CO2.
Lotus Elan - here's another one of Lotus' concepts. Revival of one of Lotus' classics has been inevitable and long awaited. Fingers crossed that Lotus build this fantastic concept sometime in the very near future!
Car Insurance
Without a doubt if you're interested in purchasing one of the cars mentioned above, if they go into production, then it'll be well worth your while shopping around for car insurance. You'd certainly want to be covered against any mishaps in these beauties!
Saturday, October 23, 2010
For decades, BMW has made the reduction of emissions and fuel consumption a key part of its product development strategy, just as enhancements to the dynamic ability of each BMW have been a lasting, sustained brand value. BMW’s EfficientDynamics engineering philosophy – the pursuit of an enhanced, athletic driving experience while simultaneously lowering the consumption and emissions of each vehicle – resulted in the most dramatic drop in fleet consumption of any automaker from 1990 through 2005, according to an Environmental Defense study.
Now, the BMW Vision concept car clearly demonstrates that the EfficientDynamics objectives are fully compatible when applied to a sports car. Conceived as a 2+2-seater with plug-in full-hybrid technology, this unique car combines the performance of a BMW M vehicle with a standard of fuel efficiency and emission management that exceeds even the current levels achieved by the latest small cars. This outstanding result is made possible by the combination of BMW ActiveHybrid components with an extremely economical combustion engine, and outstanding aerodynamic qualities.
BMW EfficientDynamics Concept is the result of a “clean-sheet” development process to ensure that the correct achievements were made in the areas of efficiency, driving pleasure, technology, and emotional design. BMW EfficientDynamics Concept is the most comprehensive implementation of the EfficientDynamics philosophy seen so far. The powertrain provides a top speed limited electronically to 155 mph, with acceleration to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 3.76 liters/100 kilometers, equal to 62.6 mpg, and the CO2 emission rating is 99 grams per kilometer. CO2 emission management is even more outstanding when driving in the all-electric mode after charging the battery from a plug-in source: Taking all emissions in the generation of electricity into account, as prescribed by the EU formula, the car’s emission rating is just 50 grams per kilometer.
BMW EfficientDynamic Concept
BMW EfficientDynamic ConceptThrough this unique balance of driving pleasure and fuel efficiency, the BMW EfficientDynamics Concept car clearly demonstrates the potential of BMW ActiveHybrid technology, which makes its world debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show in the BMW X6 ActiveHybrid and BMW 7 ActiveHybrid production models.
The power and performance are made possible by combining a fuel-efficient 3-cylinder turbodiesel with one electric motor on each axle. The intelligent combination of these units, together with precisely controlled energy management, simultaneously enhances the dynamic performance and the efficiency of the car. Overall system output is 356 horsepower, and peak torque is 590 lb-ft. The special arrangement of the two motors and diesel engine allows all-wheel drive when driving in all-electric mode. The result is minimum power loss and a harmonious transmission of the power available under all conditions.
In its design, BMW EfficientDynamics Concept for the first time conveys the dynamic look of a BMW sports car to a hybrid vehicle. Developed with decades of experience in Motorsport, the body of this unique sports car is a result of intelligent lightweight technology and aerodynamic efficiency. In the design of the interior, the focus was likewise on both the fascinating driving experience and, in particular, on transparent, hands-on technology and maximum reduction of weight.
Turbodiesel engine with unprecedented specific output.
The combustion engine is a cutting-edge turbodiesel featured for the first time in the BMW EfficientDynamics Concept car. Displacing 1.5 liters on three cylinders, the engine consistently follows the downsizing principle of using a relatively small engine combined with a turbocharger to reduce fuel consumption.
Through its compact dimensions, the 3-cylinder fits conveniently in front of the rear axle like in an agile mid-engine sports car, despite the two seats at the rear. Fuel is injected by the latest generation of High Precision Direct Injection, and the turbocharger features variable intake geometry for maximum efficiency. Engine output is 163 hp with peak torque of 214 lb-ft.
The specific output of 109 hp per liter sets a new benchmark in diesel technology. The power delivered by the turbodiesel is conveyed to the rear axle by means of a double-clutch transmission (DCT). This advanced transmission technology, which already offers a particularly dynamic driving experience in BMW’s M3 and Z4 Roadster, allows the driver to shift gears without the slightest interruption of power. BMW EfficientDynamics Concept features a newly-developed version of BMW’s DCT with six speeds for maximum efficiency and flexibility.
Two electric motors for full-hybrid drive.
The combustion engine is supplemented by two electric motors. Consistently applying the BMW ActiveHybrid philosophy, development engineers followed the principle of “Best of Hybrid,” choosing the optimum combination of a hybrid synchronous motor on the front axle and a full-hybrid system at the rear.
In this concept, the driver benefits from the efficiency of the electric motors over a far wider speed range than with a conventional hybrid car. The rear axle comes with a second-generation full-hybrid system corresponding to the technology in the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 production model. The compact electric motor positioned between the diesel engine and the DCT outputs a consistent 33 horsepower and is able to reach a peak of up to 51 hp. Maximum torque for the rear electric motor is 214 lb-ft, the power, either supporting the diesel engine or in all-electric motoring. When coasting or applying the brakes, the electric motor acts as a generator and feeds electric power to the lithium-polymer battery in the car. The electric energy developed in this way is therefore captured without any additional consumption of fuel through the principle of Brake Energy Regeneration. Energy wasted on the brakes of a conventional car is thus saved within the new power system for subsequent use in driving the car.
A second electric motor acts on the front axle. This engine, a hybrid synchronous motor, offers continuous output of 80 horsepower and peak torque of 162 lb-ft. Extra power of 112 horsepower is available for a period of up to 30 seconds, and, for a 10-second “burst,” the electric motor is able to develop 139 horsepower. The power is transmitted through a 2-stage, single-speed reduction gearbox.
BMW EfficientDynamics Concept is able to run completely under electric power, with the power of the turbodiesel engine alone, or through an infinite combination of the three power sources. Depending on driving conditions, the two electric motors may be used both for accelerating and for regenerating energy when applying the brakes and while coasting. This principle ensures efficient energy management, with the charge status of the lithium-polymer battery constantly remaining within the optimum range. When accelerating, the electric motors help to boost the car for even greater performance, ensuring immediate response and a significant reduction in fuel consumption. For a short time, such as in passing maneuvers, the cumulative maximum output of all three engines increases to 356 hp, with maximum torque generated by the three engines reaching 590 lb-ft.
Lithium-polymer battery for electrical energy.
The energy cells featured in BMW EfficientDynamics Concept are housed in a chassis element running from front to rear through the middle of the car. The front unit is the lithium-polymer complex, an ongoing development of the lithium-ion battery. Overall, BMW EfficientDynamics Concept comes with a total of 98 lithium-polymer cells, each offering a capacity of 30 amp/hours and developing continuous output of 600 Amps at a voltage of 3.7 V. For a period of 30 seconds, each cell is even able to develop maximum output of 1,200 Amps.
Serial arrangement of the lithium-polymer cells serves to generate nominal voltage of 364 volts, the gross storage capacity of the battery is 10.8 kW/h. With an unusually high discharge capacity of 80 percent, the battery delivers 8.6 kW/h for driving the car. This superior performance comes on overall weight of the entire energy storage system of just 187 lb. A further advantage is that through their optimum dimensions tailored to the specific qualities and features of the car, the lithium-polymer cells, together with the operating strategy chosen with a concept of “forward looking” energy management, reduces the thermal load acting on the battery to such an extent that there is no need for active cooling.
Plug-in solution: convenient charging of the electric power system from a conventional power socket.
Brake Energy Regeneration captures electric power generated while driving without additional fuel consumption, which is subsequently used to supply power to the electric motors and on-board network. A further option is to connect the lithium-polymer cells to a conventional power socket for a simple and efficient charge process, using a plug-in connector in the front-right wing of the car. Connected to a standard EU power outlet (220 V, 16 Amps), the system requires a maximum of 2 ½ hours to fully charge the lithium-polymer cells. And wherever a power source with higher voltage and amperage (380 V, 32 Amps) is available, the charge time is an even shorter 44 minutes.
In addition to electrical energy storage, BMW EfficientDynamics Concept comes with a conventional fuel tank at the rear end of the central chassis tunnel, offering a capacity of 6.6 gallons. Running on diesel fuel alone, BMW EfficientDynamics Concept is able to cover a distance of approximately 400 miles with its combustion engine. Benefitting from an extra range of up to 31 miles in the all-electric mode, the car offers an overall range of approximately 431 miles. As a result, this unique concept car offers all the requirements for using energy with maximum efficiency and at the same time experiencing the dynamic performance typical of BMW without any restriction of everyday driving qualities.
Performance, fuel efficiency and emission management opening new dimensions in hybrid technology.
The power delivered by the two electric motors and single diesel 3-cylinder engine gives the BMW EfficientDynamics Concept a level of performance superior to anything provided so far by a hybrid vehicle. Acceleration from a standstill to 100 km/h, for example, comes in just 4.8 seconds and the car could exceed its electronically-limited 155 mph top speed.
At the same time fuel efficiency and emission management now reach a standard only achieved, if at all, by far less powerful small cars conceived for city traffic and short distances. Applying the criteria of the EU test cycle, BMW EfficientDynamics Concept offers average fuel consumption equal to 62.6 mpg. CO2 emissions, in turn, are 99 grams per kilometer. These consumption and emission figures are measured on a consistent internal power balance, meaning that the batteries and storage media for electrical energy maintain the same charge level throughout the entire test cycle (with the same level at the beginning and end) and are charged while driving only by the car’s on-board systems.
As a plug-in hybrid, BMW EfficientDynamics Concept is able to cover the entire drive cycle for measuring fuel consumption also with its combustion engine completely switched off. Then, to subsequently charge the lithium-polymer cells to the same status as when setting off, all the driver has to do is connect the car to an external power grid. To determine the consumption of electric power, the only requirement is to compare the charge level of the battery before and after the test cycle. Applying this measurement process, the BMW EfficientDynamics Concept car consumes 17.5 kW/h per 100 kilometers, equal to a CO2 emission rating of just 50 grams per kilometer in the EU test cycle.
To determine the total volume of CO2 emissions when driving in the all-electric mode, new legal standards for measuring the level of fuel consumption are currently being prepared for hybrid and electric cars with a plug-in power supply. Applying this calculation method, the CO2 emission ratings generated by BMW EfficientDynamics Concept are reduced further to just one-third of the original figure of 99 grams per kilometer. Clearly, this significant reduction of emissions opens up a new dimension in BMW’s EfficientDynamics development strategy in this unique concept car.
Aerodynamic qualities reflecting BMW’s Motorsport experience.
BMW EfficientDynamics Concept also takes a new approach in its design and streamlining, the body and the interior clearly expressing the unique combination of supreme efficiency and the sporting performance of the brand. Following BMW’s design language, this concept car visualizes both highly efficient aerodynamics and intelligent lightweight construction.
In its design, BMW EfficientDynamics Concept differs from the usual low-emission car concepts. The principle of “form follows function” is not just for the overall look of the car, but embraces each and every detail. Measuring 48.8″ in height and boasting a sweeping, arch-like roofline, BMW EfficientDynamics Concept offers the slender silhouette of a classic Gran Turismo. With the combustion engine fitted in front of the rear axle, the designers have succeeded in giving the car a very low front end, with the flow of air being further smoothened by active louvers in front of the radiator, which close completely when the need for cooling air is low. This efficient function follows in the footsteps of the active air flap control already used as a feature of BMW EfficientDynamics in some of BMW’s current production models. As a further highlight, BMW EfficientDynamics Concept guides air smoothly and exactly as required into the car through an active air intake at the front.
Numerous details in the design of the body are based on the know-how BMW has gained in Motorsport, a number of body elements serving as air deflectors and guide vanes. Designed as ducts, for example, the A-pillars serve to channel the flow of air in the same way as the rear lights with their wing profile. The floor of the car is fully covered from front to rear and from one side to the other, thus maintaining a smooth surface to avoid any air swirl liable to increase fuel consumption. Slender openings around the front air dam guide the air flowing specifically into two closed ducts leading inside the front air dam to the wheel arches where the air comes out again through a very slim aperture at high speed, flowing just next to the outer wheel flanks. This air jet rests on the front wheels like a curtain and is therefore referred to most appropriately as the “air curtain.” It provides a highly stabilizing effect.
Overall vehicle concept for a drag coefficient of just 0.22.
To further optimize the aerodynamic qualities of the entire vehicle and keep rolling resistance to a minimum, BMW EfficientDynamics Concept comes with tires and wheels of quite unusual size on a sports car. The tires measure 195/55, while large 21-inch wheels provide a contact surface on the road otherwise offered only by a much wider tire. In combination with the sophisticated axle geometry, this ensures agile driving behavior.
The extra-large wheel covers extending over part of the tire flanks add to the unique, very different look of BMW EfficientDynamics Concept from the side. The blade profile integrated in the wheels serves furthermore to reduce the negative effect of the turning wheels on the overall aerodynamics of the car. In all, these features optimizing the aerodynamic qualities of the car give the BMW EfficientDynamics Concept car a very low drag factor (CX) of just 0.22.
Technological look as a strong impression of intelligent lightweight construction.
In both exterior and interior design, BMW EfficientDynamics Concept stands out clearly as a strong spearhead in technology. Many components of the vehicle are presented in full view expressing the “transparent” character of the car as a powerful visual feature of lightweight technology. The chassis and suspension of BMW EfficientDynamics Concept are made completely of aluminum; the roof and the outer skin on the doors are made almost completely of a special polycarbonate glass automatically darkening as a function of the light shining on the car.
Measuring 181.1″ in length, 74.8″ in width and 48.8″ in height, this unique concept car offers ample space for up to four passengers and their luggage. Thanks to the consistent lightweight construction strategy applied on the car, curb weight is 3,076 lb, with the center of gravity remaining very low. In its power-to-weight ratio, the BMW EfficientDynamics Concept car is far superior to all other hybrid cars, achieving the same standard as extremely dynamic sports cars with a conventional combustion engine.
Carrying a maximum payload of 981 lb, this unique 2+2-seater is fully suited for everyday traffic. Luggage capacity of 5.3 cu ft, in turn, allows the driver and passengers to conveniently take along two golf bags. And to meet additional loading requirements the backrests of the two rear seats may be tilted down individually to provide extra storage space.
Emotional design through sculptural shapes and layering technology.
Reflecting the innovative drive concept of this unique car, the design of BMW EfficientDynamics Concept likewise takes a new approach in combining functional progress with a most powerful emotional impact.
This has been achieved through the close cooperation of BMW’s Design and Technical Development Divisions starting at an early point and continuing consistently throughout the entire development process. The result is a brand-new vehicle architecture with the drive components as well as the body and interior elements perfectly coordinated and matched to one another with maximum flexibility and individual style.
A fully integrated design philosophy also provided new options in using harmonized design principles connecting the exterior and the interior and providing an interacting effect between the two areas.
Sculptural design language giving BMW EfficientDynamics Concept a fully harmonized, complete look ensures the proportions typical of a BMW sports car. The front, side, rear and roof areas, for example, flow smoothly into one another. Dynamically contoured surfaces and shapes, in turn, create highly attractive light and shade effects accentuating the light and sporting character of the car in an emotional manner.
Layering technology developed by the BMW Group Design Division acts as the fundamental guideline in designing the exterior and interior. Applied for the first time in exterior design, this technology layers one surface on top of the other, creating very smooth seams and joints to reduce the number of components and, accordingly, the weight of the car. As a result, BMW EfficientDynamics Concept meets the most demanding aerodynamic requirements without using any additional body elements, simply through the structure of the surfaces optimized for a smooth flow of air.
Interior: innovative lightweight construction and unprecedented orientation to the driver.
In the design of the interior, innovative layering technology provides an unprecedented symbiosis of function and stylish shapes intentionally reduced to a minimum, consistently implementing and visualizing the lightweight principle also inside the car.
Specific components such as the central air vent not only serving to enhance motoring comfort but also acting as part of the cockpit, perform several functions in one. This multi-functionality is then presented visibly within the car, the use of particularly sophisticated materials providing a highly attractive combination of innovation in technology and quality clear to the eye and the touch of the surface.
This interaction of lightweight construction and individual well-being also comes out clearly in the design of the controls and switches, with a leather band, for example, running round the aluminum gear selector lever on the center console. Materials combining lightweight technology and all the qualities required are also to be admired all round the cockpit of BMW EfficientDynamics Concept, giving the car an unusually generous feeling of space for a 2+2-seater. The body-contoured seats, for example, are made up of a kevlar shell, a backbone structure, and seat padding with personalized fillings. Clearly, this combination alone ensures comfort at a minimum weight. The driver’s and front passenger’s seats are connected firmly to the center console to form a joint interior “landscape”, while the rear seats anchored on the floor would appear to be hovering in space. Natural materials and light colors on the seat upholstery and all interior linings underline the light, sophisticated and sustainability-oriented atmosphere within the passenger compartment.
The instrument panel is deliberately padded only where technical components have to be appropriately covered, thus making an important contribution to passenger safety in the event of a collision. The instrument cluster played a fundamental role right from the start in the design process, serving as the starting point for all surfaces within the interior and thus creating a particularly powerful rendition of that driver orientation typical of BMW.
Innovative light technology: providing clear signals to the outside and offering soothing ambient illumination inside in a unique symbiosis.
LED lights at both the front and rear end of BMW EfficientDynamics Concept provide an innovative combination of the symbols typical of the brand and clear design language oriented towards trendsetting technology. The distinctive look of the dual round headlights characteristic of a BMW is emphasized in particular by the use of LED technology. The rear lights are integrated also in their function into the design of the entire rear section, forming part of the rear air deflector and thus merging completely into the rear contour.
Extremely flat and compact, the rear lights are made up of innovative LED units forming a smooth and consistent red surface when not in use. Only when used do the respective light chambers take on the appropriate color such as yellow on the direction indicators. This innovative light technology also provides an intense symbiosis of the exterior and interior, again promoting and further refining the driving experience.
This is also why the ambient illumination of the interior comes with new features and qualities, the light sources within the passenger compartment being fed from the positioning lights at the side, the rear lights and the brake lights, thus changing the atmosphere created by the lights within the car as a function of driving conditions.
The optical impression conveyed by BMW EfficientDynamics Concept also results in other areas from the symbiosis of the exterior and interior, eliminating the conventional barriers between the two. The lines within the interior, for example, continue on to the innovative design of the engine compartment lid, while in its shape the third brake light positioned higher up on the car follows the structure of the glass roof and tapers to the outside where the roofline moves down gently to the rear.
Overhead doors for convenient access to all seats.
The doors on BMW EfficientDynamics Concept open up like bird’s wings, turning on pivots in the front roof column at the level of the side direction indicators. Since the car has no B-pillars, the large door cutouts ensure convenient entry also to the rear seats. The pivots on the doors also provide the base for the exterior mirrors, thus forming an ideal combination of function and aesthetic design. The structure of the doors is also characterized by several layers of materials on top of one another and the optical and functional symbiosis of the interior and exterior this technology is able to offer. Made up of three layers, the overall structure comprises the outer glass surface, an interim load-bearing layer, and the interior cover with its particularly smooth shapes and fl owing forms clearly visible to the passengers, layering technology again, therefore, opening up new perspectives.
The large glass surfaces extending far down on the body also provide a strong optical impression of the low seating position close to the road. And at the same time a stable sidebar ensures the body stiffness and crash safety naturally required on every vehicle. Flowing to the inside at its central point, this safety element also serves as an armrest. This interplay of the three layers also helping to minimize the weight of the car continues on the trim bar running along the door and extending out of the armrest, finally flowing into the outer door opener on its path from inside to outside.
Clear focus on the essential: 3-dimensional Head-Up Display.
Layering technology is also used on the displays in the instrument cluster and in the Head-Up Display developed to an even higher standard on BMW’s new concept car. The Display now creates a powerful impression of three dimensions, at the same time providing the option to present various signals more in the front or more in the background, depending on their relevance and current driving conditions.
The Head-Up Display projects information important to the driver on to the windscreen. Indeed, innovative presentation technology even allows the superimposed presentation of several views in three dimensions, keeping, the gauge graphics visible in the background while the latest information on route guidance or warning signals from BMW Night Vision, for example, are shown in the foreground.
The sequence in which such signals appear depends on the driving mode chosen by the driver, the display technology, again depending on the driver’s personal preference, enhancing a particularly sporting, a more comfort oriented, or an efficiency-based style of motoring. Through its design alone, the BMW EfficientDynamics Concept car clearly shows that highly efficient individual mobility may by all means be presented in emotional style. BMW already offers models in all vehicle segments which, compared with the competition, ensure the lowest level of fuel consumption and emissions combined with superior power and performance.
And now BMW EfficientDynamics Concept confirms BMW’s commitment to offer a perfect combination in future of unique driving pleasure and optimum qualities in the responsible use of natural resources.
In the design process the need for sustainable management is borne out most clearly by the GINA (Geometry and Functions in N-fold Augmentation) concept developed by the BMW Group. In this case maximum creative freedom sets the foundation for innovative solutions challenging the conventional and meeting the requirements of the future. This makes the GINA principle particularly well-suited for developing visions for the future reflecting both the wish for emotional style and individual character as well as the quest for sustainable management and efficiency. From the dimensions of its wheels through the design of the rear lights and all the way to the configuration of the cockpit, BMW EfficientDynamics Concept therefore boasts a number of details both outside and inside which, going far beyond conventional solutions, open up a new approach to maximum efficiency and that Dynamic ability typical of BMW.
Forward-looking energy management adjusting to individual requirements.
With the individual system components on board BMW EfficientDynamics Concept being networked with one another, conditions are perfect for implementing a forward-looking system of energy management using information gathered by the sensors of the driver assistance units fitted in the car. Data provided, for example, by the rain sensor or Active Cruise Control with its Stop & Go function as well as by the navigation system, and subsequently evaluated by the central control unit, offers an overview of current and upcoming driving conditions. Then, evaluating such data, the on-board computer is able to forecast driving conditions on the stretch of road immediately ahead, such calculations serving to prepare the car for upcoming requirements and make efficient use of the energy available through optimum operation of all systems.
Should the high-performance central computer establish, for example, that the driver is about to take the motorway, the power used for running the cooling system is reduced for a certain period in advance, on the assumption that the short increase in coolant temperature resulting from such an energy-saving measure will quickly be set off by the higher speed of the car on the motorway. Another example of such pre-conditioning is the regeneration of energy from the air conditioning, from Electronic Power Steering and the Brake Assistant.
Mastretta MXTMexico may be known for building most of our vehicles, including supposedly American products, but they haven’t built a true sports car of their own. The good people over at Mastretta are looking to change all of that.
The new MXT will be powered by a 2.0-liter Duratec inline-four with a turbocharger that will crank out 250 horsepower and 257 pound-feet of torque. That power should be plenty as the MXT is lightweight and very basic.
The exterior of the car is nothing to write home about, but we hear it looks much better in person. The car uses an aluminum semi-monocoque construction with a carbon fiber belly pan and a steel subframe. Covering all those goodies is a body of fiberglass-reinforced plastic.
The MXT is on its way to Europe with a price of £31,000 and £38,000. While that might seem cheap for a high-performance sports car, take a look at the specs and you’ll change your mind in a heartbeat. The MXT is without ABS, stability control, and airbags, making this machine a deathtrap to the inexperienced driver. Convert that price from pounds to dollars and you’re looking at a vehicle that costs as much as a Ford Mustang GT500.
We can’t be certain that the MXT will be coming to America any time soon, as the company will look to build some sales momentum in Europe first. Not to mention passing emission tests in this country is harder than astrophysics. Still, it might be years behind the Mustang GT500, but it sure will turn more heads than one.
Mercedes SLR 722.Okay, listen, if you’ve ever heard of a little sport called basketball, then you have no doubt heard of a certain player that goes by the name of Michael Jordan. Yes, the one and the only, Michael Jordan. Turns out, this very same dribbling, dunking, tongue-hanging-out, Space Jam star who has an elite line of basketball shoes himself has an equally impressive vehicle that is currently on sale on eBay. Oh yeah, this car also happens to be the hot, limited edition Mercedes SLR 722. Wait, yeah, perfection has raised its hand to say hello.
The SLR 722 Edition is powered by a 5.5-liter V8 supercharged engine that delivers 640 Hp and 820 NM of torque. The result is an impressive 0 to 60 mph time of 3.6 seconds, a 0 -124 mph time of 10.2 seconds, and a 0 to 186 mph time of 28.0 seconds. Top speed is 209 mph.
Modifications made to the car include: 19-inch light-alloy wheels, modified suspensions, with a stiffer damper setup and 10 mm (0.39 in) lower ride height introduced for improved handling, larger 390 mm (15 in) diameter front brakes and a revised front air dam and rear diffuser, red "722" badge, hearkening back to the original 722 racer, and slightly different taillights and headlamps.
The former NBA star rocket is being sold by A&M Auto Export for about $50,000 less than what the base SLR 722 sold for back in 2007. But at $429,998, this vehicle is more than worth it considering all of the modifications that were added plus the low mileage (odometer reads 962 miles). That, and the fact that the man himself had to sign the title for the vehicle. A rare and beautiful car and an autograph.
Friday, October 22, 2010
The model presents an extreme preparation, characterized by the AMG Performance Package Plus kit, bringing the power of its V8 to 6.3 liters of displacement, from 457 hp to nothing less, 487 hp. This is also reflected in an increase in torque, which is now 600 Nm.
Mercedes-Benz Concept 358 in Australia
Mercedes-Benz Concept 358 in AustraliaTop speed (electronically limited) is in the 250 km / h, with acceleration from 0 to 100 in 4.4 seconds. Your tires are 19-inch multi-link. The most curious, however, is that, despite its striking color, the other components are nothing too “loud”, having a rear spoiler, a diffuser, and redesigned their bumpers as reworked elements, the rest if not for the painting, it could go almost totally unnoticed.
If anyone asks the price of this unit, when there is nothing official, but to give an idea I can say that the C63 AMG kit costs about € 85,724. We can begin to do math.
Peugeot EX1 previews future electricWe were able to check out the EX1 electric concept from Peugeot at last month’s Paris Auto Show and although this concept was fun to look at and explore, the look of the overall car didn’t seem like something that would be driving down the road anytime soon. Of course, this concept isn’t just an oversized paper weight, Peugeot has stated that it is a preview for a future sports car from the French company.
In a recent interview, a Peugeot spokesman said: "The EX1 shows that we can do many things with electric cars. It shows how far we can go."
The timeline isn’t set in stone just yet, though. Peugeot has no plans to produce an electric sports car "for the time being." However, the spokesman said Peugeot could still one day make a production model EV sports car.
Chevrolet Camaro T-Top by Drop Top CustomsDrop Top Customs has taken us back to the glory days with their new T-Top Kit for the 2010 Chevy Camaro. The customized Camaro is set to debut at 2010 SEMA next month, and sales for the T-Top kit will start about a month after. For $6,500 you can have the car of your 80’s dreams. Of course, with a kit like this, who will want the Camaro Convertible when Chevrolet actually unveils it?
Along with the cuts in the roof, Drop Top Customs will more than likely add superchargers to all of the Camaros they tune, but they have assured us all that chassis flex will not be an issue.
That’s about all the details we have on the gussied up Camaro, but we’ll have more information after we stop by their booth at the 2010 SEMA Show. We’ll also make sure to drop by the convertible Cadillac CTS Coupe also provided by Drop Top Customs.
Saker Rapx and SniperWe haven’t heard from these guys in quite some time now, but Saker, the Dutch automaker specializing on limited-run race cars, is now back with two new offerings: the Rapx and the Sniper. The two cars, unfortunately, are only available for race track purposes, which means that anybody who’d want to buy one won’t be able to bring it out to WalMart to but some groceries.
The two new Saker racers will share the same 2.0-liter Subaru engine that its predecessors have, although the two new racers will be given a sequential transmission as an optional add-on. On the flip side, the Rapx and the Sniper niper are both lighter than the aforementioned GT and Sprint, thus creating a better power-to-weight ratio.
Undoubtedly, the best part about these two cars is the ‘reasonable’ price tag attached to it – about €50,000, or $70,000. For now, though, the two race cars are going to be sold in Europe, although Saker has stated that they’re planning on having international releases soon.
It may not be as powerful as other race cars in the world, but if you’re looking for a car to enjoy out on the track on a lazy Saturday afternoon without burning holes in your bank account, the Rapx or the Sniper are two perfectly good choices for you.
Lamborghini Gallardo by ZR-Auto Okay, so we have no idea who ZR-Auto is, but we do have to give them props for the job they have done on this Lamborghini Gallardo. After taking a look at this project we decided that the Canadian tuning firm was a force to be reckoned with, especially since they share a great love for Lamborghini models.
Starting with a regular 2004 Gallardo, the tuner managed to squeeze an impressive 1176 HP to the wheels. How? By adding a Heffner tuned AEM stand-alone ecu and Heffner complete twin turbo engine build. Add that to the Titanium rods, hi-tensile fasteners, sleeved block, pistons, reworked internals, Heffner spec twin ball-bearing turbos with external billet wastegates, blow-off valves, Heffner intake system with cold air conical filter inlets, and a Heffner custom stainless exhaust system, and you have this killer Lamborghini. What makes it even better is that it produces more than 800hp on regular gas!
And the good news doesn’t stop there as ZR-Auto have also offering an IMSA wide body conversion, IMSA custom painted lightweight multi-piece wheels, IMSA 8 piston big brake kit, IMSA clear glass engine decklid, Moton fully adjustable coilovers designed specially for the IMSA Gallardo, a custom color matched interior, and racing restraint harnesses.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder
Spyker Cars alien the aboriginal ancestor of the new Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder had its apple admission at this year at the 59th Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. The Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder comes with all-aluminum V8 agent bearing 400 bhp and breeding 354 lbs of torque at 3,400 rpm. The Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder delivers a top acceleration of 300km/h (187 mph) and accelerates from standstill to 60 mph in a bald 4.5 seconds. The agent is commutual to a chiral six-speed gearbox, active the rear auto via a bound blooper differential.
The Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder ancestor appearance a semi-automatic canvas soft-top which is anchored by one axial latch operated manually. After opening, the soft-top of the Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder is absolutely amid aural the anatomy of the car. The bendable top of the Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder appearance a bottle rear windows and it’s offered in eight altered colors. The Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder comes with a baggage rack, CNC-machined from solid billets of aluminum, army anon abaft the cycle hoops, on which a wing-shaped aluminum case is strapped. The Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder case is akin in the aforementioned checky covering as the autogenous and buttresses.
The Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder is the aboriginal ancestor for the open-top model, appointed to go into assembly in the aboriginal bisected of 2010.
Nissan GT-R R35
Nissan GT-R R35The Nissan GTR has always been a vehicle that stands for extreme performance. What most people don't realize when they think about this machine is that it has always been a well rounded type of performance car. The new R35 GTR has been injected with the same DNA as the previous R32, R33, and R34 models. This means that the car will have extreme performance and also practicality to meet the demands of anyone's lifestyle. Nissan describes the new R35 GTR as a multi-performance sports car meaning that it's not just another fast car with all the right numbers that look great in magazines.
The main question about the R35 GTR would be, "Is it a super car?" The fact that this question has been brought up makes me happy to see that people realize there is more to a super car than just the numbers generated from performance tests. When I think of a super car or at least what a super car has been up until now would be something that is fast, stimulating, violent, loud, and visually attractive on an extreme level. The GTR without a doubt is fast, and not just in a straight line. This vehicle took out top level Porsche models and also gave the lightened Gallardo a run for its money on Tsukuba circuit in Japan. It also clocks one of the best times on Germany's Nurburgring for a production car which is a better reference than a tight circuit like Tsukuba. With these accomplishments it can be said that the GTR has great power, braking, and cornering abilities that either match or rival cars that are considered super cars.
It's as fast as a super car, but that's not enough. My opinion is that it doesn't fall short of being called one, it just falls somewhere else. A super car is just a category, it doesn't necessarily mean better. The R35 is better than a super car, but the things that make it better would be the only reasons why someone would rather not buy it. It's a useful machine, meaning that it can get you to work in any condition and can be driven all year round through any rain or snowstorm. It has space for passengers and luggage. It's quiet enough to drive down the street at 2am without the neighbors hating you. It rounded and can visually fit in with the rest of the cars on the road, especially 350zs and G35s. These are all great qualities, but not the types of traits that the type of person that will buy such an item is looking for. Most people that are in the market for a vehicle like this are looking for one thing and one thing only, extravagance, both in the looks, and the driving characteristics of the car.
The fact that most of this machine's testing was done on the Nurburgring says a lot about it. Nurburgring is a demanding circuit that requires a car to be setup to be both fast and safe simultaneously. The ideal car at this circuit would be something that makes the driver feel safe while clocking amazing times. One lap around this course in a real super car would make most people have a heart attack before they got halfway through, but in this car anyone can do a few laps in a row without shaking too much while traveling at the same speeds. The R35 is a perfect ultra high performance street car designed for the average driver. Certain pro racing drivers like Keiichi Tsuchiya drove this car and did not like that fact that it had so many computers that take away control from the driver, saying that the car felt "unnatural" at its limits. What a pro doesn't realize is that the average driver that doesn't practice on the track daily is happy to return some driver control responsibilities back to the car so he or she doesn't have to worry while they rush to work or have some fun of winding roads during their weekend off.
Even though the R35 is not a super car, it is still something different that sends a positive message to people about the advancement in automobiles. Sure it's not raw enough to be a pure sports car like the NSX R or Porsche GT3 that are designed for driving enthusiasts that want to be stimulated, but I believe that Nissan wanted to show the world what they are capable of doing in terms of drivability technology with this car. Pure sports cars are generally fast because they are stiff, lightweight, and responsive, much like racing cars driven by professionals off the streets. The GTR weighs almost 2 tons meaning that the secrets to its speed are not so simple. The R35 can be considered to be a beast with manners that was built to appeal to everyone. It may be a little too cheap for the status driven upper class and a little too pricey for the current 350z, Evo, and STI owners. A car's price says a lot about it and for only $80K, I would say that it should be higher to match the lower numbers that it generated during its performance tests.
ACS6 BMW M6Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Giugiaro Namir In Concept
Ferrari 360 Modena Driving Experiences
Ferrari 360 Modena Driving ExperiencesFerrari driving experience is generally held in two venues, you direct drive racist or drive in real Aerodrome. Aerodrome for offering the opportunity to quickly drive Ferrari, most feel that the area drive Ferrari in the track. At the track, Ferrari really come to life, experience is not only impressive acceleration, but you will also feel how the Ferrari drive on the environment, was built for.
Upon arrival at the circuit you will have a 15 minute briefing on what your Ferrari driving experience will involve including all aspects of your safety. After that it’s off to the track where a qualified racing driver will accompany you for four miles in a Mini Cooper S, teaching you the racing lines of the circuit and showing you how to get the best out of your Ferrari drive. After the familiarisation it’s time to climb into the Ferrari for the drive of your life.
Driving experience company offers various Supercars for you to drive, even though most people choose to drive a Ferrari, you can drive Lamborghini, Audi R8 drive, drive V8 car tour, you can actually move whatever you select Supercar.
Ferrari 360 Modena that clearly has many things to live, not only may well need to be credible and most ideas, it is exactly like that, fantastic.
Ferrari FXXThe FXX boasts a very low gear shifting time (under 100 ms), which is essential for a sports car of this high magnitude. The brake pads have also been tweaked in order to create a safer atmosphere for the driver, while still making the car just as superficially viable as its predecessor. The tires are another feature that are highly touted as an individual characteristic of the car, and are custom made only for the Ferrari FXX, not for any other vehicle. Like the Enzo, the features of the Ferrari FXX's interior are custom made for the user, which means that every driver is measured specifically measured for the car upon purchase.
The Ferrari FXX is definitely a supercar that cannot be mass-produced, mainly due to production costs, but also due to the fact that only a select few are willing to purchase such an exotic car due to the extensively high $ 1,773,000 / 1,500,000 euro price. Thus only 29 units of this sports car were built. The Ferrari FXX computer technology held inside the car also makes for a great driving experience, and tells the driver how their technique can be improved to assist their ability to function along with the car.
Orca SC7
Koenigsegg CCRKoenigsegg is an exclusive manufacturer of super sports cars, the latest being the Koenigsegg CCX with a performance speed of 403 km/h. The CC (Competition Coup) led by Koenigsegg is unlikely to be defeated in the near future. The McLaren F1 and Ferrari Enzo supercars still have to come a long way to prove superior in the squad of Production cars. The performance speed of McLaren F1 is 372 km/h and that of Ferrari Enzo is 355 km/h as per the results at Nardo/Prototipo.
Koenigsegg CCR is synonymous with speed. The engineering and design of this sports car substantiate this fact. The aerodynamic body and the lightweight chassis display the main purpose of the vehicle, the speed. The front bumper reminds you the cutting shark with pointed face and deep nostrils. The materials of the body are the lightweight carbon fiber compounds reinforced with Kevlar and aluminum honeycomb. These features ensure the complete safety along with the super speed even in extreme driving conditions. A feather-touch driving experience from Koenigsegg!
Koenigsegg CCR is specially designed considering the tastes of the sporty car customers. The low and broad appearance of the body adds a pleasant feeling of safety; added to this is the fashionably designed semicircular windscreen and organically shaped rear hood. Under roofless driving conditions, the hardtop can be turned to fit under the front bonnet. The whole chassis can be exposed when the hoods and the roof are open; this adds a lot of convenience while inspecting the body.
The most important feature of any sports car is the design of its body. Koenignsegg CCR's body is perfectly symmetrical adding a sense of equilibrium while driving. The gear lever is located at the center point of the supercar. All other important mechanisms are mounted around the steering so as to have a good control over them, and these instruments are visible from the upper spokes of the wheel avoiding unnecessary acrobatics while driving.
A lot more technological additions, such as the cutting edge brakes, new racing shock absorbers, CCR advanced throttle, a monocoque carbonfibre intake plenum, and 19" front wheels, etc., are applied to make Koenigsegg CCR the choice of the leaders.
Chevrolet VoltFinally, after almost four years, we've driven the 2011 Chevrolet Volt in a variety of conditions, talked over our impressions, and reached a conclusion: Yes, the 2011 Volt electric car is a real car.
It may be propelled by electricity. It may plug into a wall socket or a special garage recharger to "refuel." But the new and remarkable compact hatchback also rides and drives quietly, seats four comfortably, and performs briskly.
The fact that it also has a revolutionary powertrain that operates as an electric car or a plug-in hybrid--and is the first Chevrolet you can plug into a wall to recharge--could almost be an afterthought. It's that well executed.
The sole fly in the ointment is the inevitably high early adopter price: $41,000. New auto technology always costs a lot when it first hits the market, and the Volt's lithium-ion battery pack all by itself likely costs half the price of a new 2011 Chevy Cruze subcompact.
New Ford Focus 2012Ford has announced a few more details regarding the standard four-cylinder engine that will be under the hood of most, if not all, 2012 Ford Focus models. And there's truly something for everyone; the new engine has more power, is smoother, and goes farther on a gallon of gas than the engine it replaces.
The new 2.0-liter engine doesn't have jaw-dropping power and torque figures—a respectable 160 horsepower and 146 pound-feet—but thanks to the deployment of Ford's twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) and direct injection, it should be a good deal more flexible and responsive compared to the 140-hp, 136 lb-ft version that's currently in the focus.
Ti-VCT promises continuously variable—and quick—responses to changes in loads or driving styles by using a combination of engine oil pressure and electronically controlled solenoid valves.
What's even more impressive is the new Focus models' projected fuel economy: up to 40 mpg on the highway, according to Ford. Based on the automaker's record with the 2011 Ford Fiesta, this will likely come with the new six-speed DCT automatic transmission; a six-speed manual gearbox will be standard.
Flex-fuel capability will be built into the new engine from the start, with it capable of accepting gasoline blends with up to 85-percent ethanol (E85). Direct injection, with Denso high-pressure injectors, also helps permit this engine's high 12:1 compression ratio and compatibility with regular gas.
Ford says that it's taken special measures with this new engine to reduce friction yet reduce weight. Of course with the new Focus, as any of the automaker's recently redesigned or refreshed models such as the 2011 Ford Mustang or 2011 Ford F-150, you'll find electric power-assisted steering (EPAS), while the Focus employs so-called stretchy belt technology to eliminate the need for a belt tensioner. The alternator and water pump run on a separate decoupled belt that helps isolate vibrations, and the intake is entirely made of composites.
This won't be the only powertrain for the new 2012 Focus; both a Focus BEV electric vehicle and a higher-performance (yet still economical) EcoBoost (turbocharged and direct-injected) version of the Focus are in the works. Keep an eye out for more details as they emerge.
Ford dealerships are already taking orders for the 2012 Ford Focus, and deliveries will begin this coming winter.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Ferrari 458 Italia Spider And 612 ScagliettiThere’s a reason that Ferrari is a household name for any auto enthusiast, and the next couple of years will illustrate just what that reason is with new models just pouring out of the Italian sports car manufacturer.
The beginning of this liberation of models will be the successor for the current 612 Scaglietti. This successor will be unveiled in early 2011 at the Geneva Motor Show, with a Spider version for the Ferrari 458 Italia coming out later that year at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The long rumored successor for the Enzo supercar will arrive in early 2012, and the 599 GTB’s replacement, codenamed F152, will arrive in the second half of 2012.
The new 612 has been codenamed F151 and was already rumored to combine a V12 front engine that delivers a total of 550 HP with a 100-HP electric motor at the rear. The result will be a fuel consumption reduction of 35%. As for the 458 Italia Spider, it will feature the same folding hardtop as the California.
VLN is one of several operators who run the 24-hour race at the Nurburgring and the Audi TT RS SP 4T will be tested during the last two this year, 16 and 30 October. Drivers will be Marc Hennerici and Christopher Mies, who is running for the Austrian Team Raeder Motorsport. Audi and quattro GmbH have tried to keep costs down by using components from R8 LMS and do not alter the wheelbase. However, – as we see – a gauge of substantially broadened by at least said large wheel arch extensions. How much power is picked out of the 2.5-liter turbo fifth grade are not reported but probably put it on a “moderate” level to get good reliability.
Audi TT RS
Audi TT RS
Audi TT RS
Audi TT RS 
Audi TT RS 
Audi TT RS 
Audi TT RS 
Monday, October 18, 2010
BMW's New Z4
BMW debuting sustainable In FrankfurtSunday, October 17, 2010
Volkswagen One-Liter L1VW has decided that the day is near, and will bring an updated version of the L1 Concept to the Frankfurt Motor Show this week. With plans for the L1′s production slated for 2013, VW will show the new concept in “near-production” form, with every component reengineered. The L1′s chassis is crafted partially from lightweight aluminum. VW claims the L1 weighs in at a scant 380 kgs with its CFRP body, and will accelerate to a top speed of just over 160 kph courtesy of its ultra-low drag coefficient of just 0.195. The L1 utilizes a 1L TDI diesel engine and a single electric motor in a full-hybrid configuration and consumes 1.38 liters of diesel for every 100 km it travels.
Porsche 918 Spyder
Audi R3Audi is readying this stunning new R3 sports car, a mid-engined little brother to the R8 supercar. Developed in conjunction with parent firm Volkswagen, the Audi R3 could arrive in five years' time, with four-cylinder power to take on the Mazda MX-5 but not enough grunt to tread on the toes of Porsche’s Boxster (now an inhouse family rival, don't forget). The Audi R3 is a replacement for the stillborn R4.
It will be co-developed with a Volkswagen sports car; we’ll see a concept of VW's version in just a few months' time, before development starts in full for launch in 2013.
So just what is this Audi R3?
Plans are still at an early stage, but sister brand VW will test the waters with a mid-engined sports car concept at the November 2008 LA Auto Show (see the current October 2008 issue of CAR Magazine for the full scoop on the sporty VW).
Porsche 911 Carrera Cup AsiaPorsche Asia have quietly announced the launch of a limited edition Carrera Cup model – with just 30 units on offer exclusively for the growing Chinese market.
Like most special Porsches, the limited Carrera Cup Asia, makes absolutely no effort in hiding its performance heritage or close relationship to the race track. The available color schemes further emphasize this point – Guard Red, Carrera White, and black all come with in-your-face Porsche Racing decals and painted, lightweight 19” wheels. Let’s just say you’ll never mistake it in traffic or on the track for that matter.
Power is the same as the “normal” Carrera S at 385HP and 420Nm whilst the 0-100km/h sprint time is improved to 4.3 secs (from 4.6) due to more clever shedding of weight without compromising on comfort. They are only available with the 7 speed PDK transmission though – a bummer if you’re a serious driver wanting total control, but don’t let that deter you one bit as it’ll still hit 300km/h. This is still a Porsche and a drivers’ one at that.
Inside you’ll find special alcantara Recaro seats that are bespoke to the car, with the option of carbon fiber backrests for that racy feel - not that they’re necessary. There are red signatures spread throughout the cabin that stir the blood, of which our favorite being the illuminated Carrera S logo housed in the carbon fiber door sill. Who wouldn’t want to spend all their time in here?! The limited edition plaque on the inside completes the unique experience: “whoever drives this car is amongst the winners” You can be certain of that!
