Car Review - Car Pictures - Car Wallpapers

Jaguar XF-R Sports Sedan Spied

2007-11-27T15:53:00.000-08:00

The R-designated big cat is back. And packing increased power, uprated looks and a host of expected enhancements over the standard XF, the R version will have its sights firmly set on de-throning the M5. These first spy shots, taken by a car magazine photographer, reveal the first prototype XF-R to not be a modified from an S-Type-based XF mule. They follow the car's Frankfurt debut and first production roll-off just yesterday.

Using a further tuned version of the V8 model's 416 hp 4.2-litre supercharged unit with higher boost pressures, the XF-R is expected to gauge power of nearer to 500 hp. With the 0-62 mph sprint with the present supercharged unit in just 5.4 seconds, expect M5 levels of performance for the XF-R. Uprated R suspension and brakes will feature in addition to an upgraded styling package.

In these spy shots, the game is given away for Jaguar somewhat clearly, with quad exhaust pipes featuring where the standard model boasts only two, a blackened front mesh grille and a noticeably lowered ride height. Residing under arches designed to cater for larger wheels, there are attractive 20" rims, behind which lie R ventilated discs. According to car's photographer, this XF sounded like no other XF he had ever photographed. Unsurprisingly, when approached by the magazine, Jaguar refused to comment.

With standard models hitting the market in March, the tuned XF-R won't be seeing the light of day just yet, with sales expected to start early 2009 with a possible late '08 motor show debut.

Hyundai Genesis Ready by 2008

2007-11-27T15:44:00.000-08:00

aunch coincides with 40^th anniversary

The all new, up-market Hyundai Genesis (or endearingly still referred to by Hyundai as BH) is set for a 29 December release party, coinciding with Hyundai's 40^th anniversary. Of course, the luxury sedan will be released on home soil first before its world conquest commences.

To commemorate Hyundai's 40 years of growth, they will use a new official emblem for the year which will grace all advertising, product as well as corporate and in showrooms and sales / marketing events. The logo is made up of two brush strokes, combining elements of the past and future into one silhouette.

The Hyundai Genesis will be powered by a newly developed DOHC 32-valve V8 engine producing well over 300hp, should be able to hit 60mph within 6 seconds and is rear wheel driven. The Genesis is entering new territories for Hyundai, territories where BMW, Mercedes, Lexus and Infiniti are well represented.

Press Release

Hyundai Celebrating 40th Anniversary

Dec. 29th will mark forty years of growth

On December 29 this year, Hyundai Motor Co. will celebrate the fortieth anniversary of its foundation and to mark this major milestone, the company is releasing an official emblem.

Executed with two simple but elegant calligraphic brush strokes which combine elements of the past and the future into the dynamic silhouette of car, the emblem symbolizes 40 years of growth and progress in the automotive business. It expresses the spirit of a forward-looking, progressive organization which prizes responsiveness and responsibility: Hyundai will always remain responsive to the needs of our customers and will adhere to the highest standards of responsibility to our stakeholders, the community and the environment.

The anniversary emblem will be incorporated into all Hyundai Motor advertising, product as well as corporate, and in signage displayed in showrooms and sales/marketing events.

Coinciding with the anniversary celebrations will be the Korean market launch of the company's all-new luxury sedan codenamed BH.

Hyundai Genesis Spied Uncovered

2007-11-27T15:35:00.000-08:00

Since its concept debut at the New York Auto Show this past April, numerous spy photos of the new rear-wheel-drive 3.8-liter V8 sedan known internally as BH, have been taken during its development. But these latest detailed shots found on South Korean hi-fi stereo forum site, Wassada.com, show it completely in the buff. Aside from some interesting design details on the exterior, one particular detail which was speculated but unconfirmed, until now, is the BMW 5 Series iDrive like controller in the center console just below the gear lever.

Hyundai has already announced a release party for the upmarket Genesis on December 29^th, coinciding with their 40^th Anniversary, and then making its public debut just two weeks later at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. With pricing expected to come in well below $30,000 USD, the Genesis is sure to turn a lot of heads.

Zap Zebra Approved for UK Roads

2007-11-27T15:32:00.000-08:00

Free passes for London

While ZAP is in Californian courts battling Daimler and smart, they are also expanding their markets. After opening a Chinese factory, now the 40 mph (64 km/h) ZAP Zebra 'city car' has been approved for UK roads.

But besides just being street-legal, the ZAP Zebra will also be one of the first (if not the first) car to be eligible for 'free passes' from London daily congestion tolls and parking. ZAP CEO Steve Schneider: "Here is a unique electric vehicle that will help drivers save significantly on fuel costs as well as free passes for the daily congestion tolls and parking.”

A very noble attempt, and most definitely a step in the right direction in regards to saving the planet but we'd still not want to be caught in a Zebra, let alone the pick-up truck version.

Corvette ZR1 LS9 Engine Photos Leaked

2007-11-27T15:28:00.000-08:00

As expected, the Detroit Motor Show this January will see the debut of the new Corvette ZR1 packing an all new engine, the LS9. As previously suspected, these leaked photos confirm the 6.2-liter LS3 V8 engine gets supercharged. The photos show the supercharger in its two main components, the twin intercooler which integrates on top of the main supercharger unit sitting underneath. The LS9 engine is expected to produce approximately 650 hp.

Related entries:

Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1 Spied
Corvette ZR1 Caught On Video Ahead of Debut
Chevrolet Joins Supercar Realms with Corvette ZR1 at Detroit

Mercedes SL Facelift Uncovered via Photoshop

2007-11-26T22:04:00.000-08:00

After being on the market for 6 years, the current generation R230 SL-Class is set for its midlife major facelift. Here now are photos showing the next SL without any disguise, just a few pieces of black tape were removed from the car by computer. Besides a revamped interior design, the most dramatic change will be the CLS-Class style headlamps together with a new front bumper fascia in addition to a new front grille with a single bar moulding/emblem. On the rear, new LED tailamps and a restyled rear bumper fascia. Engines are likely to remain the same, but rumours are talking about a turbocharged version of the 350 engine with 354 bhp. Top of the SL range will be the well known biturbo V12 SL 65 AMG with 612 bhp. The 2009 SL-Class with its debut expected for this March at the Geneva Motor Show will have its market launch towards the end of 2008. The next generation SL-Class is expected to hit in 2012.

BMW X6 details

2007-11-26T21:44:00.000-08:00

BMW has finally released the photos and all the details in the BMW X6 concept. The BMW X6 is a combination of sporty coupe and BMW X DNA. The BMW X6 features Dynamic Performance Control for unique directional stability and precision under all driving conditions as well as BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive technology. BMW Press Release:

Character:

- Concept innovation of the world’s first Sports Activity Coupe.
- As the founder of the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) segment, BMW is now once again presenting a new, consistently developed concept.
- The most sporting and dynamic interpretation of a BMW X model, with the emphasis above all on the car’s active driving potential. Superior driving dynamics taken up by typical BMW design language and authentically visualised in the car’s design.
- Extravagant body design combining the sporting elegance of a BMW Coupe with the striking DNA of BMW X.
- Clear orientation to the wheels, generous ground clearance and extra-large wheel arches give BMW X6 the powerful presence so characteristic of a BMW X model.
- BMW X6 is the first car in the world to feature Dynamic Performance Control for unique directional stability and precision under all driving conditions as well as BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive technology.

Exterior design:

- The powerful presence of the car’s body merges smoothly and harmoniously with the low-slung roof of the greenhouse. This flowing roofline is indeed a characteristic element of the coupe silhouette, just like the short front overhang, the long wheelbase and long rear overhang.
- In its design, BMW X6 expresses all the DNA so characteristic of BMW X. The optical balance of the front and rear wheels clearly visible from the side bears convincing testimony to BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive technology.

The second dominating element in the design of the body is the clear orientation to the car’s
wheels, muscular wheel arches and large wheels providing a particularly impressive look and sign of stability.
- The exterior is characterised by exciting interaction of convex and concave surfaces.
- The side contour line rising up dynamically to the rear and the growing distance between the shoulder and the sill-line as the car moves to the back generate a dynamic wedge shape.
- The striking front view with clear focus on the car’s width bears out the ,expression so typical of a BMW X model. This powerful look is further enhanced by the extra-large BMW kidney grille serving as the air intake with robust slats, the headlights cut in a sharp profile, and clear accentuation of the side panels highlighting the flared contours of the wheel arches.
The large air intakes, in turn, characterise the significant demand for cooling air in the engine, make the car look longer and underline its sporting character also from the front.
- The engine compartment lid comes with clear contours subdivided by sharp lines tapering out towards the BMW kidney grille. The elegant look created in this way is also characterised by bumper elements finished in body colour with discreet plastic appliques in the typical style of a BMW X model.
- The unique design of the D-pillars expresses sheer power and stability, the innovative design of the rear lights emphasising the width of the car. Positioned far to the outside, the exhaust tailpipes and horizontal lines of BMW X6 accentuate the wide track of the car.
- The dark paintwork standing out clearly form the chrome elements symbolises the sporting and technical character of BMW X6, with sophisticated highlights being added by the sill trim at the side, the chrome-coloured slats, the foglamps with their special surrounds in the outer air intakes, as well as the chrome-plated tailpipes.
- The underfloor protection front and rear is made of milled aluminium.
- White direction indicator lines are integrated in the rear lights and the special night design of BMW X6 is characterised by light bodies with a homogeneous light effect.

Debut of the World’s First Sports Activity Coupe:
The BMW X6.

Inventing the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), BMW has established a highly innovative and, indeed, trendsetting segment in the automobile market. And now the time is ripe for another brand-new concept: The Sports Activity Coupe combining an elegant, dynamically flowing roofline with the typical features of a BMW X model – a truly fascinating combination now borne out for the first time in the guise of BMW X6.

Presenting this concept car, BMW is proudly demonstrating the vision of a unique vehicle developing the striking design language of BMW X cars with a clear and consistent focus on sportiness and elegant presence.

BMW X6 captures the eyes of the beholder through its highly innovative combination of design and concept features. The car combines four doors and a dynamically flowing coupe roofline with a high sill-line, muscular wheel arches, and a strong centre of gravity positioned right in the middle and making a clear reference to four-wheel-drive technology.

The result is a unique vehicle clearly presenting the DNA of a BMW X model but interpreting the character of such a vehicle in a unique and truly sporting manner. The design of BMW X6 is the authentic visualisation of outstanding driving qualities borne out by the car mainly through BMW’s intelligent xDrive technology as well as Dynamic Performance Control.

Unique, aesthetic look: dynamic coupe line and the typical features of a BMW X model.

The front end of BMW X6 is dominated by highlights in design clearly symbolising the car’s dynamic orientation to the road. From the side, in turn, the proportions are definitely elegant, the short front body overhang emphasising the dynamism of the car, the long overhang at the rear, its stretched and sleek look. The long line of the engine compartment lid merges smoothly and gently into the elegantly rising A-pillars, the greenhouse moved far to the back and the roofline tapering out clearly and consistently from the B-pillars interacting with the high window line to provide low and, indeed, almost flat window graphics.

The roofline, in turn, flows down gently to the rear spoiler, finally moving up again slightly in a small upward swing perfecting the overall line of a coupe and at the same time optimising the car’s aerodynamic qualities.

The dynamically stretched side lines highlight the aesthetic effect of this concept car, with BMW X6 obtaining its impressive presence clearly through the unique combination of these lines and the design elements of a BMW X car.

Apart from the high window line, the large wheel arches and the centre of gravity visibly in the middle of the car, particularly this distinctive and powerful interaction of convex and concave surfaces, of the muscular side-sills with running boards made of drilled aluminium beneath the doors and the strong underfloor protection elements front and rear also made of aluminium express all the genuine DNA of BMW X.

Consistent focus on sporting performance.

BMW X6 combines the design features so typical of a BMW X model with a truly individual, aesthetic look. In its character and design, this concept car stands out clearly from BMW’s highly successful SAV models, although the core features of those models provide a strong and sound foundation for the development of a unique personality in the guise of BMW X6 as the Sports Activity Coupe.

With its impressively dynamic driving characteristics, the BMW X5 already excels as a true exception in its segment, and was indeed the forerunner creating the entire segment in the first place. Now BMW X6 provides a clear impression of how an even more consistent focus on sporting performance in this class is able to set standards once again.

Through its design alone, this new concept car arouses the greatest expectations of the driving experience in a Sports Activity Coupe, bearing out the robustness and superior traction of a BMW X model in combination with dynamic driving qualities never seen before in this segment of the market.

World debut: Dynamic Performance Control in BMW X6.

Dynamic Performance Control making its world debut in BMW X6 provides ideal qualities for experiencing new dimensions in driving dynamics. This drivetrain and chassis control system, combined with BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel drive technology, offers a truly unique standard of driving stability in every situation, benefiting both driving dynamics and safety at the same time.

Dynamic Performance Control, a truly innovative system, spreads out drive forces as required in all situations, feeding a varying degree of power whenever required to the two wheels at the rear.

Dynamic Performance Control is the only system of its kind in the world able to provide its stabilising effect both under power and with the engine in overrun.

As soon as the system detects possible over- or understeer of the vehicle, for example in a bend, it will vary the distribution of drive forces between the wheels for perfect stability, dynamic traction, and forward motion. And in the process Dynamic Performance Control improves driving stability at all speeds, this unique chassis and suspension innovation ensuring not only safe traction when setting off and precise control when entering a bend, but also higher lateral acceleration and optimum directional stability when accelerating out of the bend.

BMW – setting the standard in a dynamically growing market segment.

Launching BMW X6, BMW is once again proving the company's outstanding competence in the development of new car concepts. First, this fascinating study shows how the range of BMW X models highly successful the world over might be extended by yet another exclusive version; second, BMW X6 presents the possibility to experience the sporting performance so typical of the brand in entirely new style and with brand-new features. The highly innovative Sports Activity Coupe created in this way is therefore once again paving the way into a dynamically growing market segment.

BMW X6 is beyond comparison with any existing series production vehicle the world over. But at the same time it creates clear references and associations through its unique, sophisticated design, the world’s first Sports Activity Coupe guiding the fantasy of the particularly demanding motorist in a clearly defined direction: this car promises driving dynamics in a dimension never seen before.

Yet a further point is that BMW X6, through its extravagant look and appearance, opens up very tempting perspectives for the future, this Sports Activity Coupe boasting design ideally suited to prove individual style and character.

Unique, innovative – and BMW all the way.

BMW X6 is unique and brand-new in the world of the automobile. But it nevertheless stands out as a genuine BMW at first sight, all design features of this concept study clearly reflecting the particular language of BMW design. Indeed, through its design language alone BMW X6 makes a number of clear and highly recognisable statements simply because they are quite unique in this constellation: The car expresses sporting elegance, superior presence and stylish extravagance as well as the symbiosis of superior power and outstanding robustness so characteristic of a BMW X car and now enhanced to a significantly higher standard in BMW X6.

Clear orientation towards the product features characterising the concept of a Sports Activity Coupe gives BMW X6 a fascinating look right fromthe start. Through its design alone, this car expresses the features essential to such an innovative vision of a completely new car. Conversely, this design principle now arouses the expectation that a BMW Sports Activity Coupe may well develop precisely the outstanding sportiness and superior power both on the road and offroad clearly borne out by this concept study.

So it is precisely the unique features of the vehicle that lead to its unmistakable design. And it is this authentic design so typical of a BMW which gives the BMW X6 its individual style and character and also reflects the image of the brand. In other words – only BMW is able to create a Sports Activity Coupe, and BMW X6 shows what such a car must look like.

Front end with dynamic orientation to the road.

BMW X6 stands out clearly as a genuine BMW from every angle. This is ensured primarily by the sculptural shape and design of the car characteristic of all BMW X models, the front, side and rear areas merging smoothly into one another, the car’s shapes and surfaces forming one common unit.

Individual details also bear out the design so typical of the BMW brand, ranging from the BMW kidney grille with its dual round headlights cut away at the side and the powerful contour line along the flanks of the vehicle all the way to the horizontal lines accentuating the sheer width of the car.

Like on the BMW X5, the fundamental look and impression of the front area of this concept car symbolises powerful presence right from the start. But given the large share of surfaces finished in body colour, the front end nevertheless creates an impression of lower height, emphasising the dynamic, road-going orientation of this Sports Activity Coupe.

The DNA of BMW X is also to be admired on the engine compartment lid and the structure of the almost vertical BMW kidney grille, with its slats finished in high-quality titanium colour. In addition, clear signs of distinction to be admired in many details serve to accentuate the sporting potential of this high performer.

Large air intake scoops positioned far to the outside not only bear testimony to the cooling requirements of an engine one can rightly expect to be particularly powerful, but also show a clear orientation, together with the side panels extending far to the inside beyond the headlights, to the wheels, emphasising how stable the car is on the road.

The air intakes are split horizontally by chrome-coloured bars also supporting the surrounds on the round foglamps. The contour of the central air intake, finally, is characterised by lines oriented to the outside, again providing a clear optical orientation to the road as such.

Through their design sharply cut across at the top, the dual round headlights typical of BMW express a particularly intense and focused look. Hence, the entire vehicle will appear to be concentrating even more on the road ahead.

The outer contours of the headlight units, in turn, extend far into the side panels, making the front overhang look shorter than it really is and giving the vehicle an even more sporting and dynamic appearance from the side.

Side view: characteristic wedge shape, dynamic roofline.

The unique proportions of BMW X6 are particularly clear from the side, the gently tapering roofline and the long body overhang at the rear giving the car its stretched and sleek coupe silhouette.

The roofline itself reaches its highest point directly behind the steering wheel, highlighting the driver' position and creating an effect most appropriate for the extravagant design of BMW X6. The chrome surrounds on the side windows, in turn, made of one piece, accentuate the sheer elegance of the vehicle, while the absence of pillars dividing the side area gives the window graphics a completely homogeneous look making the entire vehicle appear lighter and almost transparent.

The counter-flowing line at the bottom of the D-pillar so characteristic of BMW and well-known to the connoisseur as the “Hofmeister kick” stands out clearly towards the rear of the window frame, while slender plastic protection panels at the bottom edge of the bumpers, the side-sills and wheel arches discreetly allude to the robust character of BMW X6.

The side-walls are split by two intuitively contoured lines merging slightly towards one another at the front of the car and thus creating a wedge shape signalising the forward-pushing motion of BMW X6.

The contour line extending to the rear at the level of the door openers comes out particularly clearly, emphasising the dynamic wedge shape of the car further accentuated by the growing distance between the shoulder line and the sill-line towards the rear end extending all the way to the rear lights to give the entire vehicle an even sleeker and more stretched-out look.

The second character line runs parallel to the side-sills, half-way between the contour and the sill-line. Both front and rear, this second character line ends where the large and muscular wheel arches bulge strongly out of the side panels.

Reflecting the usual style and character of a BMW X model, the wheel arches are almost square in their contours, offering sufficient space for light-alloy rims measuring no less than 21 inches, with Y-spoke design created specifically for BMW X6.

The exterior mirrors on BMW X6 likewise come in brand-new, innovative design. They are made up of two units with a white-glistening strip of lights between the lower unit finished in body colour and the upper section of the mirror cap made of aluminium. This row of lights supplements the corona rings in the headlights so typical of BMW and serving as daytime driving lights.

BMW X6 provides particularly powerful interaction of concave and convex surfaces between the characteristic lines of the side panels. The play of light and shade created in this way gives the entire vehicle an unusually muscular look, visualising the agility so typical of a Sports Activity Coupe in a particularly fascinating manner. And the generous surfaces also emphasise the powerful presence of the vehicle, while the elegant lines structuring these surfaces are a clear expression of its elegance.

Strong shoulders and powerful roadholding distinguishing the rear end.

The rear end of BMW X6 offers a fascinating combination of elegance, sportiness and robustness in one smooth and harmonious symbiosis. The muscular bumper and the protective underfloor panel are classic design elements of a BMW X car. In addition, the proportions typical also of a coupe are borne out here in design language again characteristic of BMW X, with the greenhouse featuring an unusually angled rear window tapering out to the rear.

The stable grip on the road emphasised by the powerful rear section is expressed above all by the equally powerful and elegant shoulder sections, another feature typical of a coupe being the rear lid integrating a striking air flow contour lip.

The entire rear end is split and characterised by horizontal lines making the rear end look even wider and emphasising the powerful stance of the car on the road, in the process creating attractive interplay of convex and concave surfaces.

The rear end reaches its full width in the area of the wheel arches, the two exhaust tailpipes positioned far to the outside and featuring high-quality surrounds together with a trapezoidal contour guiding the eyes of the beholder to the wheels.

The distinctive light edge along the lower section of the bumper provides yet a further highlight referring in particular to the ground clearance of BMW X6 so typical of a BMW X car. Again, it is details of this kind that characterise the exclusivity and refined nature of the world’s first Sports Activity Coupe.

The rear lights, in their design, likewise reflect the unique character of BMW X6, re-interpreting the L-shape so typical of BMW’s X models and adding a dynamic, sweeping line. Extending far into the side walls, the rear lights again express the full width of the car also through its night design.

Extravagance and dynamic design for a unique driving experience. In its design and looks, BMW X6 sets new standards and leaves a lasting impression, the concept study presenting brand-new options in expressing sportiness and modern elegance. Creating a car which combines the dynamic lines of a coupe with the superior power and refined robustness of a BMW X car, BMW is once again entering new terrain in the market segment of all-wheel-drive luxury cars, where the BMW X5 has already shown how dynamic driving qualities may well become a decisive criterion in a new segment. The BMW X3 then added outstanding agility as a further factor for success, and now BMW X6 stands for the ongoing continuation of these priorities.

Despite its consistently sporting orientation, BMW X6 retains the full character of a BMW X model, which indeed makes this concept study particularly appealing. Hence, BMW X6 features not only the dynamic flair of a coupe, but also four doors, a large rear lid and a wide range of attributes, that is all the fortes of a BMW X model. And it is precisely this combination that expresses the extravagance and thrill of a brand-new car concept as well as the innovative power of the BMW brand.

BMW PAS Crossover Rendering

2007-11-26T06:55:00.000-08:00

Since the last batch of V-Series spy photos back in September, some new spy photos of the BMW crossover variant dubbed Progressive Activity Sedan (PAS) have emerged from our neighbors to the left, Sweden's AutoMotorSport.se. In addition to the spy photos, AMS Sweden also has a couple of interesting computer renderings of what the vehicle could look like. Check them out.

The Gran Turismo model based on the CS Concept, which was recently announced by Chairman of the Board of Management at BMW AG, Dr. Norbert Reithofer, as approved for production, serves as the design basis for the PAS crossover. The V-Series' underpinnings and engines will be based on the future 5-Series. Similar to the X6, the V-Series will be a strict 4 seater with two buckets in the rear. The V-Series is expected to launch in 2010.

Audi Q7 V12 TDI Concept at NAIAS

2007-11-26T06:26:00.000-08:00

The Audi Q7 V12 TDI: Majestic power

Audi is advancing to the cutting edge of diesel technology development. The Ingolstadt brand already has a host of landmark achievements to its credit – and the list is about to be extended with the advent of the first ever V12 TDI passenger car engine. The six-litre unit under the bonnet of the Audi Q7 V12 TDI study delivers a majestic 368 kW/500 bhp and a formidable 1,000 Nm of torque. This injects the high-performance SUV with the dynamism of a powerful sports car.

The colossal power of the Audi Q7 V12 TDI takes it into a whole new dimension. A time of 5.5 seconds for the sprint from a standstill to 100 km/h and an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h put the performance SUV from Audi on a par with high-calibre sports cars. The engine limits its consumption to an average of just 11.9 litres/100 km.

The new V12 TDI is the crowning glory of an engine line-up brimming with dynamic performance – each and every one of the diesel engines from Audi generates a high output and tremendous pulling power for a sporty drive. This character has emerged over and over again in the brand's models, not least in the form of the six- and eight-cylinder 2.7 TDI, 3.0 TDI and 4.2 TDI models.

The pioneering role that Audi assumes in the field of diesel technology stems from the peerless expertise it has amassed over a period of decades. Since the 1970s, the Audi engineers have been responsible for one vital breakthrough after another, the most important being the world's first ever TDI engine to be fitted in a passenger car which made its debut in 1989. And in 2008, Audi intends to start making inroads into the US diesel market with Bluetec technology: thanks to Bluetec, TDI models bearing the four-ring emblem are not just sporty and economical, they can also run so cleanly that they comply with the emissions legislation in all 50 US states.

A year ago, Audi added yet another new chapter to the ongoing diesel success story on race tracks around the world. Developing over 650 bhp, the V12 TDI fitted in the R10 TDI sports prototype left its petrol-powered rivals trailing in all of the races it participated in, including the most challenging of them all, the classic Le Mans 24 Hours. The R10 TDI also triumphed in the LMP1 category of the American Le Mans Series with an impressive string of victories.

The V12 TDI – the new flagship V engine

When working on the road-going version of the V12 TDI, which will be built in its Györ plant in Hungary, Audi drew on all of the know-how that underpins the racing engine. The range-topping diesel is the new flagship model in the Audi range of V engines, spanning petrol and diesel units with 6, 8 and 10 cylinders.

The V12 TDI's cylinders actually sweep a greater volume than the racing engine, which has a capacity of 5.5 litres. Its 5,934 cc are produced by a bore of 83.0 millimetres and a stroke of 91.4 mm, the same dimensions as the six-cylinder 3.0 TDI. The two banks of cylinders are positioned opposite one another with an offset of 17 millimetres. Measuring just 684 mm long, the V12 diesel has an extremely compact design. Indeed, its compact size was one of the key prerequisites for integrating the V12 into the Audi Q7.

The V12 TDI features the same 90 mm spacing between cylinders as the other models in the V engine series. However, the cylinder banks are placed at an angle of 60 degrees to one another instead of the customary 90 degrees. This particular V12 configuration suppresses all of the inertial forces and mass moments which would otherwise cause vibrations. Consequently, the engine's smoothness is flawless in every regard.

Lightweight construction: crankcase made from vermicular graphite

The V12 TDI's crankcase is made from a mixture of cast iron and vermicular graphite – Audi already uses this high-tech material, known as GJV-450, in the manufacture of the V6 TDI and V8 TDI. GJV-450, which is produced using a patented casting method, is around 40 percent more rigid than cast iron and twice as resistant to fatigue.

This enabled the development team to make the walls thinner, paving the way for a potential weight-saving of around 15 percent compared to conventional cast iron.

The crankshaft is forged from chrome-molybdenum alloy steel and is mounted with the aid of an extremely rigid main bearing bridge made from nodular cast iron. The forged connecting rods are cracked, and the pistons are made from aluminium.

The two cylinder heads each comprise three main elements. The bottom section, incorporating the intake and exhaust ports and through which the coolant flows, is made from a low-pressure die-cast aluminium alloy that has a high-strength, lightweight construction. The top section, which conducts the oil, is pressure-cast. The cylinder head is crowned by a reinforcing ladder-type frame which holds the two camshafts.

Perfect air ducting: flaps in the intake ducts

The valves are actuated by four camshafts acting via low-friction roller-type cam followers, the compression ratio is 16.0:1. The map-controlled swirl variation of the combustion air deployed in the V6 and V8 TDI models has been retained. With this system, one of the intake ports for each cylinder is either opened or closed by means of an electrically operated flap, depending on the engine's operating point. Intermediate flap positions are also possible. This allows the swirl to be adjusted for optimum exhaust emissions combined with high power delivery.

As is customary on V engines from Audi, the maintenance-free chain drive is fitted in a space-saving location on the rear face of the engine. The developers devised a new layout for the V12 TDI, however. The crankshaft's sprocket wheel meshes with an intermediate gear which in turn drives the camshafts by means of two simplex chains. Two additional chains drive the oil pump as well as both high-pressure pumps for the common-rail injection system.

2,000 bars of pressure: ground-breaking common-rail technology

The injection technology featured in the V12 TDI is every bit as revolutionary. The high-pressure pumps both form part of the common-rail system supplied by system specialist Bosch. The twin plunger pumps are capable of building up pressures as high as 2,000 bar in the rails, considerably more than the previous usual maximum of, at most, 1,600 bar.

The piezoelectric injectors with their eight-hole nozzles have also undergone a thorough reworking. The tiniest quantities of diesel fuel are injected into the combustion chambers through their eight-hole nozzles, whose diameter has now been reduced to a mere 0.12 millimetres. The high pressure produces an optimum spray pattern inside the combustion chamber, which makes for a faster, more homogeneous and, as a result, more acoustically refined ignition process. What's more, the improved combustion efficiency increases power output whilst reducing both fuel consumption and pollutant emissions.

Ultra-fast and ultra-precise: the piezoelectric injectors

The latest generation of inline injectors employs the piezo effect: piezo crystals expand slightly when an electrical voltage is applied to them. Over 300 piezo discs are packed into each of the V12 TDI injectors, which transmit the minimal expansion to the valve needle directly (inline) without the need for any form of transmission mechanism between the two. Each actuation takes just a few milliseconds – by comparison, a wink of the eye lasts 100 ms.

The fuel pressure and quantity can be adjusted according to requirements; the number of injection phases per power stroke can be varied up to a maximum of five with the piezoelectric technology in the V12 TDI. Main injection can be accompanied by both pilot and post-injection phases. Pilot injection lessens the harshness of the combustion sound, which is particularly noticeable at low engine loads. The delayed post-injection of fuel serves to increase the temperature of the exhaust gas – this allows any particulate residue to be burned off in order to regenerate the two particulate filters which are included as standard.

Supercharging: a turbocharger for each bank of cylinders

Attached to the outside of the engine's V are the two turbochargers which each supply compressed air to one bank of cylinders. Their variable vane geometry ensures that the full exhaust flow is directed through the turbine at all times – the turbochargers offer fast response even at low rev speeds and attain a high degree of efficiency.

Both turbochargers generate up to 2.6 bar of absolute boost pressure and therefore have a vital role to play in achieving the formidable peak torque of 1,000 Nm which the new V12 TDI constantly has on tap between 1,750 rpm and 3,000 rpm. The diesel's 368 kW/500 bhp equates to a specific output of 62.0 kW/84.3 bhp per litre.

Cooling effect: two intercoolers to reduce the temperature of the air

The temperature of the compressed air is reduced by two large intercoolers. The V12 comes with a double-flow exhaust system featuring two particulate filters. The intake system is similarly structured – for each bank of cylinders there is an air cleaner followed immediately by a hot-film air mass meter. Two control units operating based on the master-slave principle orchestrate proceedings inside the engine.

The Audi Q7 V12 TDI already complies with the Euro 5 emissions standard, which is due to come into force in mid-2010 and will make especially tough demands in terms of reducing nitrogen oxides. It was with this in mind that the Audi engineers devoted particular attention not only to the new common-rail system and its high-precision fuel metering, but also to the exhaust gas recirculation system.

At partial throttle, up to 50 percent of the exhaust gases are fed back into the intake air in order to reduce NOx emissions. The extensive recirculation system incorporates a water cooler which reduces the temperature of the exhaust gases sharply.

The awesome V12 TDI directs its power as standard to a fast-action, smooth-shifting new six-speed tiptronic transmission. From here, the forces flow to a quattro driveline, which splits the drive power 40:60 between the front and rear wheels under normal driving conditions. This results in slightly tail-heavy, sporty handling characteristics, exceptional agility and exemplary steering precision.

To ensure that its phenomenal performance can be safely harnessed, the Audi Q7 V12 TDI is equipped with powerful, ventilated disc brakes. The ESP dynamic handling control system features a hill descent assist as well as a special off-road mode. The safety specification is rounded off by the pairs of front, side and head airbags in the interior.

An elaborate double-wishbone independent suspension has been used for each of the four wheels, while the majority of the axle components are made from aluminium. The adaptive air suspension, incorporating an electronically controlled damper system, comes as standard, creating a perfect synthesis of sporty handling on the one hand and silky ride comfort on the other. The body's ride height can be adjusted from its starting position of 180 mm above the ground up to the lift mode offering a whole 240 mm of ground clearance. The Audi Q7 V12 TDI study rides on 20-inch cast aluminium wheels.

Design: the best of both worlds

The Audi Q7 V12 TDI is just as fascinating to look at as it is to drive. The principal feature which distinguishes it from its lesser-powered siblings is the contrasting paintwork of the underfloor panels at the front and rear. The striking, almost vertical single-frame radiator grille has a chromed finish and echoes the dynamic Audi S6 and Audi S8 models, which both head their respective ranges powered by V10 FSI engines. Flanking the grille are wide headlight units with visible light tubes.

The Audi Q7 styling has a thrilling air of elegance blended with dynamism, and displays both tremendous sportiness and the robustness of an accomplished off-road vehicle. The Audi Q7 cuts a powerful, elongated figure, boasting the sportiest proportions in its segment, with a length of 5,086 millimetres, a width of 1,983 mm and a height of 1,737 mm.

The high side panelling gives the vehicle's body a muscular feel, particularly in the way it contrasts with the flat, sporty styling of the window area. The dynamic line above the wheel arches, the powerfully contoured shoulder section and the flowing roof line combine with the standard-fit roof rails to emphasise the car's athletic looks. The distinctive tapering at the front end and the tail with its steeply angled D-pillars form the end markers of a distinctly coupé-like silhouette.

The Audi Q7 offers outstanding levels of spaciousness courtesy of a wheelbase measuring 3,002 mm. The three rows of seating accommodate up to seven people. The seats in the second row can be specified with fore-and-aft adjustment as an option and offer occupants a class-beating footwell length. Both of the rear rows of seats can be folded down flat, increasing load capacity to a maximum of 2,035 litres. The 5-seater version of the Audi Q7 offers 775 litres of load space in its luggage compartment, while the 6-seater version features individual second-row seats. The tailgate of the Audi Q7 V12 TDI opens and closes electrically at the push of a button.

Amply sized interior plus innovative operating concept

The interior and cockpit area of the Audi Q7 create the impression of a light and airy expanse, flawless ergonomics and top quality. The standard-specification deluxe automatic air conditioning regulates heating and ventilation separately for the driver's and passenger's side, taking sunlight levels into account in the process. The Audi Q7 also comes equipped as standard with the MMI operating system which has already earned high praise in the A8 and A6 and can be expanded to include numerous additional functions.

A number of state-of-the-art driver assistance systems may be specified as an option. These include the radar-assisted "Audi side assist" for lane-changing manoeuvres, the "Audi parking system advanced" featuring both visual and acoustic guidance as well as a rearview camera, plus the latest-generation automatic proximity control system, Audi cruise control with braking guard, which is capable of braking the vehicle to a standstill if required.

The seats are upholstered in leather, and the front seats are heated. Carbon panels give added emphasis to the interior's sporting flair. And to ensure that drivers can enjoy supreme operating convenience there is a cruise control system, a driver information system and a multifunction steering wheel.

Audi already offers the Q7 with a choice of three engines: the 3.6 FSI has an output of 206 kW/280 bhp, the 4.2 FSI generates 257 kW/350 bhp and the 3.0 TDI delivers 171 kW/233 bhp. The eight-cylinder 4.2 TDI is due to be added to the model line-up in mid-2007.

Low-emission TDI engines for the USA: Green power

The trend towards diesel engines is becoming ever more pronounced in the United States too. Audi, the inventor of the modern-day TDI, is going on the offensive in an effort to bolster this tendency. 2008 will see the arrival of the Q7 3.0 TDI in US showrooms. Thanks to the exceptionally low emissions resulting from its cutting-edge Bluetec technology, this engine is able to meet even the most stringent emissions limits.

In Europe, diesel-engined cars have been enjoying an inexorable rise in popularity for years now – in Germany, for instance, they accounted for over 45 percent of new car registrations in October 2006. Today's diesel engines are powerful, fast, efficient, smooth and dependable – virtues which Audi, in its capacity as a pioneer of diesel technology since 1989, has been instrumental in achieving.

The diesel market is also beginning to take off in the USA. In 2006, diesel-powered passenger cars and light trucks secured a market share of around 3.5 percent, and this figure is widely predicted to keep on rising. Firmly convinced that the TDI engine represents the powerful and economical alternative for the future of motoring, Audi is seeking to reinforce this trend: the Ingolstadt brand is embarking on its US diesel initiative.

Strict LEVII standard in California

The stringent legislation governing emissions represents a key criterion for all passenger car engines in the USA. The emission standard entitled US Tier II Bin 8, which is in force in 45 of the 50 US states, limits emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) to 0.20 grams per mile and particulate emissions to 0.02 g/mile. The LEVII standard, which is enforced in California and a number of states in the north-east, goes much further again, restricting emissions of nitrogen oxides to 0.07 g/mile and particulates to 0.01 g/mile.

The LEVII limits are simply beyond the capabilities of the emission control technologies required to meet the current Euro 4 standard in Europe.

This is why Audi has teamed up with Volkswagen and DaimlerChrysler to develop a revolutionary new technology – it is called Bluetec and denotes exceptionally clean-running diesel engines.

The Bluetec technology is built around a dedicated catalytic converter which goes under the abbreviation of SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) and is positioned downstream from the oxidation catalytic converter and the particulate filter. The second system component is an auxiliary tank containing an aqueous carbonyl diamide solution. The solution, which has been labelled "AdBlue", is injected into the exhaust system in small doses. Once in the hot flow of exhaust gases, it decomposes into ammonia which in turn breaks down the nitrogen oxides into nitrogen and water.

The "AdBlue" reducing agent is routinely topped up at the workshop each time the vehicle is serviced, without the customer having to lift a finger. Audi ensures that there is sufficient "AdBlue" to safely cover the distances between services. Additional benefits include the fact that "AdBlue" is biodegradable and the system's guaranteed effectiveness for the duration of the vehicle's service life.

Audi is a driving force behind the advancement of diesel engines

The ultra-clean Bluetec diesel engines see Audi hold true to its tradition of always being at the cutting edge of diesel technology development. The Ingolstadt brand developed direct injection technology back in 1989 – since then, the fuel efficiency of diesel engines has been improved by around 30 percent on average. Compared to 1989 levels, the European emission standard Euro 4 heralds a 93 percent reduction in passenger car particulate emissions; long before the standard came into effect, Audi had already brought out models onto the market which complied with the stipulated limits, even without a particulate filter.

The Audi philosophy has always been to offer customers the best possible solution. And as the only good emissions are those which are not created in the first place, Audi engineers gave top priority to implementing internal engine measures that would further refine the combustion process.

The common-rail technology in the new Audi Q7 V12 TDI with an injection pressure that has now reached the 2,000 bar mark is, for the moment at least, the last link in a long chain of diesel developments.

Others include the four-valve-per-cylinder technology and the accompanying swirl and inlet ports for controlling the airflows, as well as the controlled and cooled system of exhaust gas recirculation; the latter of these innovations is of great importance for the future of diesel engines at Audi.

Higher fuel prices, improved diesel infrastructure

The growing trend towards diesel power which is emerging in the US has been prompted by a number of developments. The sharp increase in energy prices has raised public awareness of the importance of making economical use of resources.

The infrastructure of filling stations stocking diesel fuel for passenger cars is growing, at the same time increasing availability of the low-sulphur diesel fuel (containing less than 50 ppm sulphur) that is one of the fundamental requirements for using Bluetec technology and particulate filters. Irrespective of this, Audi is promoting the development of sophisticated synthetic fuels derived from biomass or natural gas, which by their nature contain considerably fewer pollutants.

The Q7 3.0 TDI will be the first model from Audi to showcase the all-new, ultra-clean Bluetec technology when it is launched in the US in late 2008. Further models are set to follow. And other countries apart from the United States have voiced an interest in the new, extra-green diesel engines, including Japan, China and, not least, the Europeans.

High-tech diesel engines from Audi

Technical superiority

The new V12 TDI with its supreme performance is a trademark Audi engine. Ever since it first invented the TDI engine 18 years ago, the brand has played a pivotal role in advancing technology in this field. Diesel engines from Audi are powerful, efficient and smooth, and they have demonstrated their superiority both on the road and the racetrack.

368 kW/500 bhp – the new V12 TDI engine in the Audi Q7 is a veritable pageant of technology and represents the new pinnacle of passenger car diesel development. The twelve-cylinder power unit provides unquestionable proof of the pre-eminent technological expertise at Audi. 18 years after the Ingolstadt brand invented the modern-day TDI engine, it is presenting it in an all-new high-tech, range-topping guise.

The wide-ranging pool of know-how at Audi is also plainly in evidence in the brand's other large diesel engines which likewise succeed in fusing sheer power with excellent efficiency. The two V6 TDI units summon 132 kW/180 bhp and 171 kW/233 bhp respectively from their capacities of 2.7 and 3.0 litres, with the V8 TDI drawing 240 kW/326 bhp from its 4.2 litres. The TDI engines from Audi are full of power and torque, yet they are also efficient and economical, as well as being quiet and smooth.

TDI engines are full of power

The three-litre TDI unit propels a variety of Audi models, ranging from the mid-size A4 up to the Audi Q7 high-performance SUV. Its 171 kW/233 bhp equates to an output of 57.6 kW/77.9 bhp per litre – a figure which up until just a few years ago was unprecedented outside of the sports car faction. In all of the models it is fitted in, the 3.0 TDI drives all four wheels via the quattro permanent four-wheel drive system, yet another Audi technology whose tremendous potential for motoring pleasure and driving safety underscores the brand's sporty essence.

The three-litre diesel engine ensures dynamic performance. It powers the Audi A8 luxury saloon, for example, to a majestic top speed of 243 km/h and from nought to 100 km/h in just 7.8 seconds. Yet more evidence of the Audi brand's exclusive expertise can be found in the A8 3.0 TDI quattro: its body tips the scales at a mere 222 kilograms thanks to its state-of-the-art Audi Space Frame (ASF). ASF reverses the weight spiral. Recently, Audi received the European Body Car Award for the TT body with its hybrid construction that makes intelligent use of aluminium combined with steel.

TDI engines are full of torque

The great strength of all diesel engines from Audi is their immense torque. The pulling power of diesel engines clearly surpasses that of comparable petrol units. What's more, their power is on tap at very low revs, just above idling speed in fact – meaning that the driver merely has to coax the accelerator pedal for a smooth yet persistent build-up of thrust. Consequently, the pulling power is there whenever it is needed, making for a composed and relaxed driving style.

Built in the vein of a classic American small block, the three-litre V6 transmits as much as 500 Nm of torque to the crankshaft at engine speeds as low down as 1,400 - 1,500 rpm. The diesel powerplant generates an exceptional 168.5 Nm for each litre of capacity.

TDI engines are efficient and economical

Diesel engines make more efficient use of the energy contained in the fuel they run on than petrol engines do. Audi has played a decisive role in the development of the many different solutions that have been devised to capitalise on this fundamental principle of physics – four-valve-per-cylinder technology for an optimum cylinder charge in any operating situation is just one example, as is the principle of variable turbine geometry used in turbochargers.

The A8 is a saloon of stately proportions, measuring 5.06 metres in length, but even in such a large car the 3.0 TDI demonstrates astounding restraint in terms of fuel consumption. On the EU driving cycle, it limits itself to an average of 8.5 litres per 100 km, while the 2.7 TDI in the Audi A4 is even more frugal, burning just 6.7 l/100 km.

Such high efficiency heralds more than just financial benefits for drivers, especially on long journeys: thanks to the 90-litre tank capacity, motorists adopting a relaxed driving style can cover far in excess of 1,000 km between refuelling stops – not only does this cut costs, it saves time and nerves too.

TDI engines are quiet and smooth

The sound from Audi's latest direct-injection diesel units is barely perceptible to passengers' ears, as they run every bit as quietly as their petrol counterparts. This is partly down to the extensive development work carried out by the acoustic engineers at Audi. Carefully positioned finning on the cylinder blocks nips vibrations in the bud, while all of the potential paths via which vibrations could be transmitted into the interior have been eliminated from the engine mountings and bodyshell.

One of the key advances can be attributed to the common-rail technology, as it virtually gives the control unit free rein over the injection of fuel, which can take place up to five times during each power stroke. The pilot injection phases take place well in advance of the main injection to produce a more gradual pressure build-up for smoother combustion. The innovative piezoelectric injectors used by Audi in its large diesel engines heighten this effect with their extremely fast, high-precision actuation, finally putting an end to the harsh knocking and metallic rattling sounds normally heard at partial throttle.

Audi – drawing on a wealth of TDI expertise

The engine unveiled by Audi at the Frankfurt Motor Show in the late summer of 1989 was nothing less than an absolute sensation: exhibited in the Audi 100, the five-cylinder turbodiesel mustered 88 kW/120 bhp and 265 Nm of torque from its capacity of 2.5 litres. It was the first ever passenger car diesel engine to feature direct injection and fully electronic management – in short, the world's first TDI.

The beefy power of the five-cylinder drive unit redefined standards in the diesel segment when it went into series production in 1990. And Audi has been consolidating its head start ever since with one new development after another.

1991 marked the debut of a four-cylinder TDI model which extracted 66 kW (90 bhp) and 182 Nm from its capacity of 1.9 litres. Four years later its output was upped to 81 kW/110 bhp, thanks partly to the inclusion of a brand new turbocharger with turbine vanes that could be adjusted flexibly to match current requirements. The advertising slogan "Where's the tank?" made the TDI's proverbial economy and its tremendous operating range famous in Germany – the 66 kW/90 bhp variant of the 1.9 TDI made do with a mere 5.1 l/100 km in the Audi A4.

The five-cylinder engine's output was uprated to 103 kW/140 bhp in 1994; coupled to a six-speed gearshift and optional four-wheel drive, it advanced to the status of the first TDI quattro. With vital statistics reading 290 Nm of torque at 1,900 rpm, a top speed of 208 km/h, 9.9 seconds for the 0-100 km/h dash and a Euromix fuel consumption of 6.0 l/100 km, it set a new benchmark for sporty touring saloons to measure themselves by.

The world's first V6 TDI passenger car engine followed in 1997. Fitted with a four-valve cylinder head – yet another major innovation on the TDI front – it had an output of 110 kW/150 bhp. Audi premiered its first diesel engine with the pioneering common-rail injection system in 1999 when it unveiled the 165 kW/225 bhp V8 TDI. The very same technology is employed by the current family of V diesel engines, ranging from the 2.7 V6 TDI and the 3.0 V6 TDI to the 4.2 V8 TDI and finally the new six-litre V12 TDI.

For 18 years now, Audi has been harnessing all of the innovative flair it has amassed in this field to constantly push back the limits of what is possible. The TDI engines have been pivotal in the Audi brand's rise to the rank of sporty premium manufacturer; today, every second Audi that is sold worldwide has a diesel engine under the bonnet. The TDI engines have enjoyed an unparalleled triumph – and the success story is set to continue apace.

TDI on the racetrack: a quiet, efficient, dominating force

Initially, even the drivers could not believe their ears – seasoned professionals of the likes of Tom Kristensen and Frank Biela suddenly had to change their habits. Previously, they had used the engine noise emanating from their open sports cars as an important yardstick – and now the engine noise faded out altogether above a certain speed, so quiet was the V12 TDI in the new R10.

The V12 diesel race car from Audi has taken motorsport into a whole new era. Designed in accordance with the regulations that govern the Le Mans 24 Hours, the 5.5-litre TDI racing engine is a cut above the rest. With its prodigious torque of over 1,100 Nm, it comfortably outperforms any petrol model. At its rated engine speed, over 478 kW/650 bhp is on tap – translating into a top speed in the region of 330 km/h.

A further forte of the V12 TDI is its low fuel consumption. Measured against its already extremely efficient predecessor, the R8 with petrol direct injection, the R10 TDI burned considerably less fuel at Le Mans. This was despite the fact that the diesel was unable to make the very most of its strengths on the Sarthe circuit with its long straights and a full throttle ratio approaching the 75 percent mark.

The high range was crucial to victory

The high range and the resulting reduction in the number of refuelling stops proved to be a crucial factor in the victory at the classic 24 Hours. Frank Biela (Germany), Emanuele Pirro (Italy) and Marco Werner (Germany) only had to call in at the pits 27 times in their car with start number 8.

They completed 380 laps – 5,187 km – at an average speed of 215.409 km/h.

Spurred on by its triumph at Le Mans, Audi went on to achieve something that no other manufacturer had before it – the R10 TDI won all eight of the races it competed in over the course of the 2006 season. The sequence of victories spanned the breadth of the United States, starting in March at the 12 Hours of Sebring in Florida and culminating at Laguna Seca in California in October.

In the American Le Mans Series, Scotsman Allan McNish together with Dindo Capello from Italy emerged as the overall champions of the large LMP1 category long before the season had drawn to a close. With a total of 23 wins under his belt, Capello is the most successful ALMS driver of all time. Audi also took the constructors title in the large LMP1 category by a substantial margin after racking up 215 points ahead of Lola in second on 160 points.

A panel of judges from the British magazine "Race Engine Technology" voted the V12 TDI in the Audi R10 TDI "Race Engine of the Year 2006" and "Alternative Race Engine of the Year". The engine's design engineer Ulrich Baretzky, Head of Engine Technology at Audi Sport, and the Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich perceive the V12 TDI as a perfect illustration of motorsport and series production cooperating closely with one another.

Transfer between motorsport and series production

"We can avail ourselves of the expertise and test facilities of our colleagues in series development," remarks Dr. Ullrich. The know-how flows both ways though, with technological highlights from the racetrack often injecting vital new stimulus into series development.

Audi performed a similar technology transfer back in the late 1980s. At that time, the touring cars from Ingolstadt were dominating the TransAm and IMSA races thanks to their quattro drive and turbocharged petrol engines that generated in excess of 700 bhp in some cases. 20 years on, large-scale series development is once again reaping the benefits of motorsport technology.

The data and the performance and fuel consumption figures stated here refer to the model range offered for sale in Germany. Subject to amendment; errors and omissions excepted.

Audi RS Models to Arrive Sooner as Production Increases

2007-11-26T06:24:00.000-08:00

Audi subsidiary, Quattro GmbH, is responsible for production of Audi's low volume performance cars such as RS models, S-Line models as well as Audi Exclusive customization packages and lifestyle accessories. In 2007 the number of vehicles coming out of the Quattro GmbH stable included 5300 RS4's, 4000 R8's, 50.000 Exclusive models plus 300.000 S-Line packages making a total of 360.000 vehicles. Compared to only 2500 vehicles back in 2000, its fair to say demand for bespoke and exclusive products from Quattro GmbH are in high demand.

According to German enthusiasts magazine, Auto Motor und Sport, Werner Frowein, Director of Quattro GmbH, stated slight increases in production will take place in 2008 despite their position of always producing enough product just below demand. Currently, production of the Audi R8 mid-engine sports car has been increased to maximum capacity of 27 additional units per day, which will continue throughout 2008, giving a total production of 5500. Also planned for 2008 are 5000 RS 6's, only 1000 RS 4's since production is concluding, and the addition of the 12-cylinder diesel Q7.

Sounds good, but it gets even better. Typically, RS cars are released in the last two years of a vehicle's six year life cycle, however, quattro GmbH have now changed this policy which will see future RS models coming to market after the first two years. Although it is unknown which RS model this new production schedule will apply to first, we can speculate based on recent spy photos that it will most likely be the TT-RS followed by the RS 5. Additionally, with consideration to Quattro GmbH's policy of having only one RS model on the market at a time, this accelerated cycle of RS cars explains why we have been seeing spy photos of the simultaneous development of RS cars (linked above).

Volkswagen Targets Toyota with 4 New Platforms

2007-11-26T06:12:00.000-08:00

Four new architectures

Volkswagen has big plans, really big plans. So ambitious that even the mighty Toyota get caught in between the crosshair's of VW's board. VW hopes to catch up to Toyota by 2018 with 10 million sales. Volkswagen tallied up 5,7 million sales in 2006.

Key to the VW plans are four new architectures, of which the transverse-engined MQB platform will be a cornerstone. The MQB platform will be used for small, lower-medium and upper-medium models, possibly totalling a grand total of 6 million cars, and is rumoured to be the logical platform replacement of up to 20 models. Current record holding platform is the VW PQ35/46 platform with 2,3 million units, underpinning, amongst others, the VW Golf.

According to an insider, the first model based on the new MQB platform could be launched by 2010 as the next generation VW Touran. Ulrich Hackenberg, VW Board Member, was quoted: “MQB is planned for a broad application, from small cars up to and including upper-medium. The first model to emerge can be expected in 2010.”

The second architecture will be called the rear-engined MHB platform and is destined to underpin VW's New Small Family minicar range, of which the Up! concepts are forerunners.

VW also has a mid-engine sports car platform in mind for the R8 and Lamborghinis. There are even some rumours floating around that Bugatti may come with a more-affordable model.

Last, but certainly not least, is the MLB platform with longitudinally mounted engines taken over from Audi. The MLB is currently used for the new Audi A4 and A5. Hackenberg said: “But MLB could be used for models up to the largest in our group.” Which would not just be the larger Audis (A6 and A8) but also the VW Phaeton and even the Bentley's.

All this sounds very logical, but besides that it will also be highly efficient. Four major platforms to cover every model in the VW Group can cut development costs by up to 40%, for instance safety technologies like crumple zones can be shared across many models. But besides cutting costs, it will also enable Volkswagen to develop new and niche models very quickly in order to respond to market demand.

Brabus Mercedes C-Class Wagon

2007-11-26T06:03:00.000-08:00

In time for the market introduction of the new Mercedes C-Class wagon BRABUS presents an exclusive sport program. The product lineup for the S 204 model series comprises powerful engine tuning for gasoline and diesel models, an elegant aerodynamic-enhancement program, light-alloy wheels up to 19 inches in diameter with corresponding suspension modifications, and custom interior options.

For the CDI models BRABUS offers its BRABUS PowerXtra kits. They start with the D2 (III) kit that boosts power output of the C 200 CDI by 39 hp (28 hp SAE net) / 28.7 kW and bumps peak torque to 385 Nm (284 lb-ft). BRABUS D3 S tuning in the C 220 CDI model increases power output by an extra 50 hp (49 hp SAE net) / 36.8 kW to 220 hp (217 hp SAE net) / 162 kW. Peak torque is 480 Nm (354 lb-ft).

The top-of-the-line turbodiesel model C 320 CDI adds 48 hp (47 hp SAE net) / 35.3 kW with the D6 (III) power kit. Peak torque grows to 590 Nm (435 lb-ft). Thus equipped, the new V6 wagon turns into one of the liveliest diesels on the market: The sprint from 0 - 100 km/h (62 mph) takes just 6.9 seconds, top speed is 250 km/h (155 mph).

For the gasoline-powered V6 models C 280 and C 350 there is the BRABUS 4.0 displacement engine. Displacement of the V6 engine is increased with the help of a special crankshaft with longer stroke and larger cylinder bore with correspondingly larger pistons. The four-valve heads are optimized for mixture flow and fitted with custom camshafts. Newly programmed engine electronics and a stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with metal catalysts round out the conversion.

The BRABUS 4.0 engine produces 332 hp (327 hp SAE net) / 244 kW and a peak torque of 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) at 4,200 rpm, giving the five-door excellent performance: The wagon accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds, top speed is 275 km/h (171 mph).

The BRABUS stainless-steel quad sport exhaust systems - available custom-tailored to each C-Class model with or without engine tuning - were developed to further improve power yield.

BRABUS stands behind the exceptional quality of all its products including engine tuning with the one-of-a-kind BRABUS Tuning Warranty of three years, up to 100,000 kilometers or 62,000 miles (see BRABUS warranty conditions as of November 2006).

A major contribution to even further improved driving dynamics comes from BRABUS tire/wheel combinations with diameters of 17, 18 and 19 inches and corresponding BRABUS sport suspensions, lowering kits and sport sway bars, all custom-developed for the new wagon. The largest wheel option features BRABUS Monoblock VI, E or S light-alloy wheels in size 8.5Jx19 in front with size 235/35 ZR 19 tires. The rear axle is fitted with size 9.5Jx19 wheels and tires up to size 265/30 ZR 19.

BRABUS high-performance brake systems - available in two versions - offer maximum endurance and stopping power on the level of a sports car.

BRABUS design is synonymous around the globe with sporty elegance. The aerodynamic-enhancement kit for the new C-Class wagon continues this tradition. Custom-tailored components that offer excellent aerodynamic properties and precise fit were developed in the wind tunnel.

The BRABUS front spoiler with four auxiliary headlights lends the Mercedes a more striking front. But that's not all: By reducing aerodynamic lift on the front axle the spoiler also further optimizes directional stability.

The BRABUS rocker panels create an optimal aerodynamic transition between front and rear wheel houses. The rocker panels are optionally available with integrated LED entrance lights that are activated with the keyless fob or by pulling on a door handle. BRABUS also offers custom-tailored covers for the exterior mirrors made from exposed carbon fiber.

The BRABUS components for the rear bumper of the wagon feature cutouts on both sides that frame the two dual tailpipes of the BRABUS sport exhaust system.

Exclusive BRABUS interior design adds value to the new C-Class wagon as well. The product lineup includes an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel, aluminum pedals and a speedometer with 300-km/h dial. In addition there are stainless-steel scuff plates with illuminated BRABUS logo, and precious-wood and carbon fiber trim sets.

Requests for even more customized interiors are fulfilled by the company-own upholstery shop. The upholsterers create exclusive interiors made from especially soft and breathable BRABUS Mastik leather and Alcantara, perfect down to the last detail.

Audi A4

2007-11-26T05:55:00.000-08:00

At a glance

Body

Length 4703 millimetres, width 1826 mm, height 1426 mm, cD = 0.27
Luggage capacity 480 litres, larger than any core competitors
Taut, sporty styling, low weight
Outstanding safety concept with new airbag and seat belt force limiter settings

Interior

Ample space at all seats
Exemplary ergonomics, MMI control terminal available as an option

Engines

Two strong, economical petrol engines with FSI direct injection, displacement 1.8 and 3.2 litres
Three powerful, refined TDI diesels with either four or six cylinders and common rail fuel injection with piezo injectors

Transmissions

Six-speed manual gearbox, multitronic, or six-speed tiptronic
For 3.2 FSI and 3.0 TDI: quattro permanent four-wheel drive with 40:60 torque split

Running gear

Audi dynamic suspension, long wheelbase and front axle moved forward for dynamic handling and outstanding road behaviour
Option of Audi drive select dynamic driving system
Option of variable-ratio dynamic steering for sporty driving pleasure

Equipment

Generous specification with automatic air conditioning and radio as standard
Many features found on luxury-class cars also available on the new A4

Short version

Sporty and superlative, progressive and emotive – the A4 takes Audi into a new dimension in the midsize car segment. The saloon’s engines – three TDI units and two petrol engines that also have direct fuel injection – provide supreme performance with fuel consumption that is an average of nine percent lower than the previous model. The highly efficient powertrains are just as clear evidence of Audi’s outstanding technical expertise as the dynamic suspension or the many other technologies adopted directly from the large luxury class. The Audi A4 reaches the market at the end of November 2007, at list prices in the region of 26,000 euros. The new Audi A4 – the new way to drive.

New design idiom

The new Audi A4 combines many fascinating aspects. Its design is expressive, taut and dynamic. The high precision and technical character of its styling clearly confirm Audi’s leading position in this field. Compared with the previous model, the designers have altered the proportions to create a new, sporty impression. The front overhang is shorter, the bonnet and wheelbase distinctly longer.

At an overall length of 4.70 metres, the new A4 is a large saloon. It boasts a substantial, powerful road presence. Its body illustrates the technical progress that has been made: it is significantly more rigid and safer than the previous model, but also distinctly lighter, thanks to intelligent weight-saving. With a drag coefficient of cD = 0.27, the new saloon cuts its way through the wind with ease, and its 480-litre boot is larger than that of any of its direct competitors.

Inside the new A4, the ambience is spacious and full of light, as would be expected in a much larger model. It embodies the traditional Audi strengths: a distinguished appearance, no-compromise high-quality workmanship with close attention to detail and logical, intuitive controls.

A whole series of high-tech optional extras taken from the luxury class is available to enhance the interior still further, from the MMI operating system, acknowledged as being superior to its competitors, to the automatic air conditioning with three-zone control. To take one’s seat in the new A4 is to experience the sensation typical of an Audi – one immediately feels at home. In the safety area too, the brand sets new standards: the airbags and seat belt force limiters work together even more effectively to protect the occupants better than ever before.

The new Audi A4 is being launched with a choice of five refined, powerful engines, covering a power-output range from 105 kW (143 bhp) to 195 kW (265 bhp). All of them use the direct fuel injection principle: FSI technology for the two petrol engines and the common-rail system for the three TDI units. The four-cylinder engines are turbocharged. With their smooth running and impressive flow of power, the engines in the new A4 are a source of pure driving pleasure. They also use distinctly less fuel than the corresponding units in the previous model: consumption is down by an average of 13 percent for the petrol engines and six percent for the TDI units.

More dynamic than ever: the quattro driveline

In the transmission area, Audi offers customers a wide range of high-tech solutions. Easily operated manual gearboxes or tiptronic automatic transmissions, and also the multitronic continuously variable transmission, deliver engine torque to either the front wheels or the quattro permanent four-wheel-drive system. For the new saloon model, this is more dynamic than ever before, with the torque split biased more strongly to the rear wheels.

The driver will experience the new A4 as the sportiest of the midsize saloons – a car that is agile, precise and effortless to control. The differential has been moved further forward in the driveline by interchanging its position with the clutch or torque converter. This has enabled the front axle to be repositioned 154 millimetres further forward – a solution that permits the axle loads to be ideally balanced. For the new Audi A4, the dynamic suspension is a totally new development. Thanks to the use of numerous aluminium components, the suspension, steering, wheels and brakes are exceptionally light in weight.

Two innovative technologies add even greater fascination to the driving experience. One of them is the Audi drive select control system, with which the driver can adjust the operating characteristics of the engine, automatic transmission, steering and adaptive damping to suit his or her own preferences. The other is Audi dynamic steering, which operates with a superimposed gear system that varies the effective steering ratio according to road speed. Close to the handling limits, it acts together with the ESP to stabilise the car by slight but very rapid adjustments to the steering. In this way, the system combines sporty driving fun with a high level of safety.

The innovative assistance systems on the new A4 make driving even more relaxed and enhance the driver’s control of the situation. Audi equips its new saloon model on request with various high-tech systems that have so far been available only on luxury cars. These systems control the distance from the car in front, help the driver to keep within the chosen lane or to move safely from one lane to the next, and provide support when parking the car.

Technical area of the future: multimedia

The Audi A4 also sets new standards for a midsize car in one of the most fascinating technical areas of the future, namely multimedia. The new saloon enters production with a series of communication and entertainment technologies at the customer’s disposal that would be impressive even in a luxury-class car.

Among the components are various audio systems, a TV receiver, two navigation systems, an iPod interface and a highly convenient Bluetooth telephone. Audi is supplying the new A4 in three equipment lines, known as Attraction, Ambition and Ambiente.

Audi TT New LED Daytime Running Lights Uncovered

2007-11-26T05:30:00.000-08:00

As Santa's home land here in Finland, the Christmas season is a very big deal. Christmas is about festive winter cheer and good spirit with family and friends as opposed to the associated consumer frenzy. The Finnish people, and Scandinavians in general, mark the beginning of the season with Christmas festivals, lights and decorations, and a lot of alcohol – lots of it. However, here at WCF headquarters in Helsinki, the start of the Christmas season makes us warm and fuzzy not because we love Christmas but because it marks the beginning of the winter test season! From now until April, all of the car manufacturers head north towards the arctic circle to Lapland which extends across the top of Norway, Sweden and Finland. With a small army of spy photographers already on location, we bring you our first of many winter testing spy stories to come.

Back in October one of our snappers caught an Audi TT-S, which in itself is a good spy story, but this one was wearing some peculiar coverings across the lower portion of the headlamps signifying LED daytime running lights (DRL) which have been cropping up on new models such as the new A5, RS 6 and A4 . And now these latest shots taken in Lapland show a TT Roadster with DRL's on and off. Sources indicate a Geneva debut in March 2008 for the TT-S and its new DRL's.

First Official Renderings of 1018 hp Koenigsegg CCXR Special Edition

2007-11-25T18:24:00.000-08:00

Supercars and eco-friendliness are terms rarely seen occupying the same linguistic space. But it is Swedish supercar maker Koenigsegg that wishes to unite the apparently radically-opposing concepts in a new Special Edition model dubbed the CCXR. Announced earlier this year, these are the first official renderings via Autoblog.nl of the new Koenigsegg CCXR Special Edition, fitted with an engine capable both of running on biofuel and de-throning the Bugatti Veyron.

The Special Edition model features a cast-aluminium V8 engine with sequential multipoint fuel injection and twin rotrex centrifigual superchargers for up to 1.5 bar boost pressure. Burning the ethanol in E85 biofuel results in the cooling of combustion chambers, while combined with a higher octane rating, power of 1,018 hp at 7,200 rpm and torque of 1,060 Nm at 6,100 rpm is produced.

The 4.7-litre turbocharged engine propels the biofuel CCXR Special Edition to 100 kph in just 2.9 seconds, with top speed expected to exceed 400 kph. The supercar achieves 22l/100km or 10.7 mpg on the combined cycle. And all for a cool 1.5 million euros.

Koenigsegg CCGT and CCXR Revealed

2007-11-25T18:09:00.000-08:00

CCGT

DOWN TUNED TO 600+ HP in order to comply with race regulations.

Koenigsegg has created a new race car - the CCGT, based on the production CC-model range. The CCGT complies with the ACO and FIA GT1 regulations.

The CCGT engine is based on the Koenigsegg CCX production engine with the superchargers removed but enlarged to 5.0 litre.

The reliability of the race engine is expected be exceptional as it is based on the proven strength and durability of the significantly more powerful road car engine.

The minimum weight allowed for a GTI race car is 1,100 kg and most manufacturers struggle to meet this target, having to undergo massive weight saving programs.

Due to the fact the Koenigsegg CC cars are very light and stiff in road configuration, the racing CCGT weighs in at just under an astounding 1,000 kg. This gives the possibility to place 100 kg of ballast freely within the car structure, still following the set rules. This should give Koenigsegg an interesting advantage over the competition.

The CCGT has very short overhangs, which could be seen as an issue when it comes to generating enough downforce. However, by further developing the clever and “slippery” design concept of the CC range, Koenigsegg believes they have created a unique package incorporating a surprising amount of down-force combined with a very compact package and optimal weight distribution. Since the CCGT has a short overall length and low overall height, whilst still maintaining adequate track width and length, it is thereby gifted with superior agility compared to most of the competition, which should be evident in future heated racing combats.

The Koenigsegg CCGT development team, headed by Dag Bölenius, has done a superb job by refining the CC into the CCGT.

The race engine is being developed in-house in parallel with the production units by Koenigsegg engineers, supported by Anders Hoglund from Cargine engineering and JP Motorsport.

CCXR

Flower Power

When thinking about supercars, one of the last things that spring to mind are their environmental friendliness.

Even though the very low and exclusive production volume of Koenigsegg can hardly be considered to have a measurable impact on the Co2 problem that global society is facing, it is an impressive statement that even a small and extreme company like Koenigsegg can afford to develop environmentally focused solutions.

By following conscientious and forward thinking strategies, Koenigsegg has managed to create the Bio Fuel Powered CCXR - environmentally friendly 1200 with even more spectacular performance than the standard CCX.

These two almost conflicting results are made possible due to the simple fact that the ethanol in biofuel has the positive side effect of cooling the combustion chambers, as well as a higher octane value, well over 100 RON, which gives the high power. Due to the fact that the biofuel has higher octane and cooling characteristics, the power has gone up to 1018 hp at 7200 rpm and the torque to 1060 nm at 6100 rpm.

It is natural to expect a substantial gain in power when optimizing the engine for E85(biofuel) instead of Petrol. Still the actual gain obtained even surprised the enthusiastic engineers at Koenigsegg.

Following the long term strategy of Koenigsegg, all previous CCXs will have the possibility to be converted by the factory to accept the biofuel option and reap the performance and environmental benefits of this wonderful and eco-friendly fuel.

The CCXR Biofuel upgrade has been developed in-house on the factory’s engine dyno by the skilled technicians at Koenigsegg, led by Christian Koenigsegg, Marco Garver and Anders Hoglund from the Koenigsegg partner company Cargine Engineering.

Curiously enough the CCXR is the first homologated car currently in production to reach over 1000 BHP.

CCX

Updates for 2007

A new and revolutionary instrument cluster with intuitive display of all important information. The New Koenigsegg Chronograph Direct Focus Instrument Cluster - envisioned by Christian v. Koenigsegg & engineered in-house by the Koenigsegg Engineering Team.

Key Features:

New Revolutionary Design - Patent Pending
One single focus to read the most critical data; RPM, Oil pressure, Speed and Boost
No need to re-focus. The driver’s eyes can be back on the road at least 50% faster compared to traditional dials or LCD readouts, without the utilization of the sometimes disturbing pop- up windscreen displays.
The main instrument can help visualize the gear ratios and the influence of boost pressure on the RPM advance, as well as velocity and oil pressure

The most intriguing feature of the new instrument cluster is the Patent Pending tri-axial 3D three pointer layout. With this layout the relations between the velocity, engine speed and boost pressure become instantly clear in an unprecedented fashion. The driver can easily pick up on gear ratios and boost pressure enhanced acceleration through the gears.

As the driver become accustomed to this new concept, he will find that during spirited driving there is no need to look at the actual numbers on the dials, but at the relationship and angles between the needles and how they interact with each other, since they all pivot from the same point, similarly to a traditional timepiece. Due to this the driver can re-direct focus from the instrumentation to the road ahead at least 50% faster compared to traditional systems.

Furthermore, this is the first instrumentation in a road car that can actually describe the gear ratios in a comprehensible fashion.

The instrument cluster displays a large amount of understandable information in a small area without the need for menus or the flicking of buttons. The dials use a non-refl ective high contrast surface with innovative illumination and fluorescent style needles, a combination often found in aircraft, again for maximum clarity.

With the logical grouping of information in the central cluster, the driver will fi nd fast moving, primary inter-related data in a fixed pattern. The left satellite shows the slow moving needles, such as temperatures and fluid levels.

In the right satellite, the driver finds the distance traveled and a vital and clearly stated fuel pressure dial in solitude.

The warning lights are located in related groups and are only visible when activated, as they otherwise are hidden behind aluminum tinting that matches the billet machined anodized instrument housing.

The design is pure and clean Scandinavian, based on the now famous Koenigsegg circular interior features in combination with exclusive materials.

New bespoke billet aluminum uprights, offering reduced un-sprung weight and increased stiffness.

Traction control is now standard and works extremely well even in the snow or very wet conditions with it’s high performance settings.

Aluminum door hinges have been implemented for further weight saving.

A new ICE-Pod system. Integrated In Car Entertainment Ipod® system. Through the one cable connector to the car, the I-pod is also hooked up to a radio antenna in the car and fully controls RDS radio function directly from the I-Pod. Even though there is only one cable going to the I-pod, it is also being charged by the car at all times.

No normal car stereo functions are missing even considering the very compact format of the I-pod.

Basically there is no need for any other control unit in the car, all functions are directly controlled through the I-pod.

Koenigsegg believes this new way of utilizing the I-pod, will make normal car stereo head units obsolete in most application.

By combining the latest Ipod® technology with a state of the art lightweight carbon fibre trimmed amplifier built by Genesis in England, Koenigsegg has taken the next step in Supercar ICE system design. A side from the improved functionality and significant weight savings, there is also a practical glove-box installed where the traditional unit used to reside and the interior is now even cleaner and more elegant looking.

Koenigsegg CCXR

2007-11-24T05:34:00.000-08:00

March 2nd, 2007 - When thinking about supercars, one of the last things that spring to mind are their environmental friendliness.

Even though the very low and exclusive production volume of Koenigsegg can hardly be considered to have a measurable impact on the Co2 problem that global society is facing, it is an impressive statement that even a small and extreme company like Koenigsegg can afford to develop environmentally focussed solutions.

By following conscientious and forward thinking strategies, Koenigsegg has managed to create the Bio Fuel Powered CCXR - environmentally friendly 1200 with even more spectacular performance than the standard CCX.

These two almost confl icting results are made possible due to the simple fact that the ethanol in biofuel has the positive side effect of cooling the combustion chambers, as well as a higher octane value, well over 100 RON, which gives the high power. Due to the fact that the biofuel has higher octane and cooling characteristics, the power has gone up to 1018 hp at 7200 rpm and the torque to 1060 nm at 6100 rpm.

It is natural to expect a substantial gain in power when optimizing the engine for E85(biofuel) instead of Petrol. Still the actual gain obtained even surprised the enthusiastic engineers at Koenigsegg.

Following the long term strategy of Koenigsegg, all previous CCXs will have the possibility to be converted by the factory to accept the biofuel option and reap the performance and environmental benefi ts of this wonderful and eco friendly fuel.

The CCXR Biofuel upgrade has been developed in-house on the factory's engine dyno by the skilled technicians at Koenigsegg, led by Christian Koenigsegg, Marco Garver and Anders Hoglund from the Koenigsegg partner company Cargine Engineering.

Curiously enough the CCXR is the first homologated car currently in production to reach over 1000 BHP.

Koenigsegg CC

2007-11-24T05:09:00.000-08:00

The Koenigsegg CC is a mid engine supercar, built to excel both on the road and on the racetrack. It provides an uninhibited racing experience and still enables fully comfortable long distance traveling.

It is currently the fastest street-legal car in production, with a top speed exceeding 390 km/h and an acceleration that takes it up to 100 km/h in less than 3.5 seconds. The CC is made using state-of-the-art materials and technology; both body and chassis are made of carbonfiber, reinforced with Kevlar and aluminum honeycomb.

The Koenigsegg developed suspension system, modeled from Formula One racing, has been judged by expert test-drivers to provide better handling than any competing supercar. Its supercharged engine delivers 655 horsepower and a torque of 750 Nm. The design of the CC creates an impression of strength and flowing motion, and perfect aerodynamics have been achieved without compromising this aggressive beauty. A hardtop roof-panel, which is easily removed and stored under the front hood, covers the luxurious interior. The leather and aluminum fitted cabin incorporates all the top equipment for comfort and security.

New in 2002 model

For the year 2002 some minor changes have been made to the CC. The front headlights have been redesigned, and the car now has xenon lights in milled aluminum casings. The lights are covered to optimize aerodynamics. The rear hood is slightly reshaped and lowered, in order to enhance the streamlined characteristics and to reduce drag. The customer can now choose to eliminate the rear wing to reduce drag and facilitate a higher top speed. The front bumper has a built in wing similar to that used on the latest Le Mans cars, which provides downforce and great airflow to the cooler.

Education

Three days of high performance driving instruction with safety and technical education included

Engine
Type:	V8, Supercharged
Displacement cu in (cc):	287 (4700)
Power bhp (kW) at RPM:	655(481) / 6800
Torque lb-ft (Nm) at RPM:	554(750) / 5000
Redline at RPM:	7000
Brakes & Tires
Brakes F/R:	ABS, vented disc/vented disc
Tires F-R:	245/40 - 315/40 ZR18
Exterior Dimensions & Weight
Length × Width × Height in:	165 × 78.3 × 42.1
Weight lb (kg):	2579 (1170)
Performance
Acceleration 0-62 mph s:	3.5
Top Speed mph (km/h):	240 (390)
Fuel Economy EPA city/highway mpg (l/100 km):	n.a. (14)

koenigsegg ccr

2007-11-24T04:43:00.000-08:00

Performance

Acceleration: 0-100 km/h (0–62 mph) under 3.5 seconds
Top speed: 390 km/h (240 mph)
Standing quartermile: 10 seconds, end speed 217 km/h (135 mph)
Braking distance: 32 m (100–0 km/h)

Body

Two-door, two-seater with removable hardtop stowable under the front boot lid. The body is made of preimpregnated carbonfibre/kevlar and lightweight hard-foam sandwich reinforcements.

Dimensions

Ground clearance: 100 mm (3.9 inch)
Fuel capacity: 80 litres (17.6 gallons)
Luggage compartment: 120 litres (26.4 gallons)
Dry weight: 1175 kg

Aerodynamics

Cd. 0.297. Frontal area 1.825 m2. Completely flat underside of chassis. Venturi tunnels at the rear of chassis/body.

Chassis

Semi monocoque made of preimpregnated carbonfibre and with honeycomb reinforcements for added stiffness.
Front and rear suspension: Double wishbones, adjustable Öhlins Racing gas-hydraulic shock absorbers, pushrod operated. Anti-roll bar. Electronically adjustable ride height.

Brakes

Front brakes: Ventilated discs Ø 340 mm, 32 mm wide. 6 piston light alloy calipers. Power assisted. Koenigsegg Advanced Control system.
Rear brakes: Ventilated discs Ø 315 mm, 28 mm wide. 4 piston light alloy calipers. Power assisted. Koenigsegg Advanced Control system.

Wheels

Koenigsegg magnesium alloy wheels with centre locking.
Front: 18” x 9,0”.
Rear: 20” x 12,5”.

Tyres

Michelin Pilot Sport 2. Unidirectional with asymmetric tread pattern.
Front: 255/40 ZR 18
Rear: 335/30 ZR 20

Steering

Rack and pinion power assisted steering. 2.7 turns lock to lock. Turning circle: 11 metres.

Engine

Type: V8 cast aluminium, 4 valves per cylinder, double overhead camshafts. Cam cover of carbonfibre.
Displacement: 4.700 cm3.
Compression: 8.6:1
Weight: 210 kg
Lubrication system: Dry sump with unique oil spray piston cooling. Oil cooler.
Oil: SAE 10W60 fully synthetic racing.
Oil tank capacity: 12 litres (2.64 gallons)
Induction system: Sequential, multipoint fuel injection. Supercharging with 1.0 bar boost pressure. Intercooler.
Fuel: 98 RON unleaded.
Ignition system: Direct coil on plug. Transistorised.
Power output: 655 bhp at 6.800 rpm.
Maximum torque: 750 Nm (550 ftlb) at 5.000 rpm.
Maximum rpm: 7.300 rpm.

Transmission

Specially developed 6-speed gearbox by Cima. Incorporated internal oil pump and oil cooler. Torque sensitive, limited slip differential.
Clutch: Dual Plate, organic or cintered Ø 215 mm (8.46 inch).

Equipment

In standard mode the car is very well equipped with many items that competitors have as options. Many customers, however, want to further equip the car. Therefore we can offer a list of customer options which should fulfil every demand.

Standard equipment

Removable roof panel
Climate control
Electric rear mirrors
Leather interior
Central locking
Electrical windows
Alarm with immobilizer
Toolkit
Driver side airbag
Power steering
Hydraulic ride height control
Servo assisted brakes
ABS
Traction control
Stereo with CD-player

Customer options

Custom Color Leather Interior
Custom Paint Color
Parking Sensors
GPS Navigation
Sequentially operated gearbox
Rearview Camera
Fitted Luggage

Maybach Landaulet

2007-11-24T03:13:00.000-08:00

This Landaulet concept gets an uprated V12 engine, co-designed by AMG. The 6.0 litre machine cranks out 612 horsepower, and 738 ft-lb of torque from 2000 to 4000 rpm and from 4800 to 5100 rpm. With twin turbochargers and water intercooling, this engine is a step up from the V12 found in the 62 S - the most powerful production limo.

Hummer H3 GT Alpha by Geigercars

2007-11-24T02:00:00.000-08:00

While some are still raving about the most powerful Hummer H3 yet to be designed, others are already a step ahead. The tuning experts at GeigerCars.de have taken the new Hummer H3 Alpha with its 5.3 liter 300 bhp V8 Vortec engine a step further: It has been modified to create improved performance, more driving power, more speed and not to mention its exclusive styling – it is an impressive package both on and off road.

The Hummer H3 GT Alpha achieves its additional power by means of a Geiger Tuning Kit, which raises the engine’s maximum performance to 300 bhp. The engine produces a peak torque of 3876 in-lbs, which allows the 2.3 ton Hummer to effortlessly reach a top speed of 124 mph.

GeigerCars.de has employed three specific components to produce this performance upgrade: software for the engine and transmission, a sport air filter, and a complete stainless steel high performance exhaust system. The distinctive sound emitted from its impressive tailpipes is synonymous with focused power and appeals to even the sportiest of drivers.

Competent off-road, Confident on the road

The H3 Alpha’s four wheel drive makes the vehicle ideal for heavier off-roading, and at the same time allows the H3 to feel at home on the road. GeigerCars.de has modified the H3 with a sport suspension, which lowers the ride height of the SUV to make it suitable for the road and provides a stable and smooth ride when taking fast corners. The Hummer H3 Alpha is easy and safe to drive both on road and off. GeigerCars.de also outfit the vehicle with a high performance brake system providing an additional safety measure- you can be sure that the 2.3 ton H3 Alpha can be steered confidently in every situation.

An extravagant appearance

The H3 GT Alpha’s power and strength is highlighted by its exclusive GT design. Its look is customized, turning the standard Hummer SUV into a truly unique specimen. With racing stripes in any available color, body kits in the car’s chosen color, and black tinted windows- the H3 GT Alpha exemplifies both an extravagant and sporty character. Most impressive is the SUV’s outer appearance boasting 23 inch alloy wheels and 305/35-23 size tires. Alternatively, the vehicle can be equipped with 24 inch wheels and 305/35-24 size tires.

A cinematic atmosphere in the rear

The interior of the H3 GT Alpha is pure luxury with Carbondesign applications and comfortable leather seats. A multimedia system, including both a navigation and sound system ensures a relaxing ride. The cinematic atmosphere provides passengers pure travel enjoyment. Each headrest has an integrated display screen with a personal DVD player.

Improved fuel efficiency using natural gas

For those who are concerned about fuel efficiency and emissions there is the option of converting to the more economical natural gas solution. The H3 Alpha and all other US cars from GeigerCars.de can be equipped with an environmentally friendly natural gas system. Once installed, total carbon dioxide emissions can be reduced by up to 20% and soot particle emission can be reduced entirely. This not only protects the environment but also your pocketbook: 40 Euro and the tank is full! The 75 liter tank has been installed in the rear undercarriage in such a space saving manner that the entire floor space remains unaltered. The Hummer H3 Alpha also reaches its complete performance power when tanking natural gas.

Pagani Zonda R

2007-11-24T01:41:00.000-08:00

While we certainly cannot say the Zonda F lacks performance figures, driving around the Nürburgring in 7:32 and achieving lateral G forces of almost 1.5 G, it is however a road car, easy to drive, intuitive and setting the benchmark for comfort, safety and lightweight.

Paired with a quality finish and the attention to detail this made the Zonda F one of the most desirable supercars resulting in the 25 Coupé models being sold out in record time. This did not seem to fulfil the requirements of our most demanding customers, who adore the weekend drive on a racetrack.

The spark has been set by an Italo-American customer, enthusiast and already proud owner of 3 Zondas. He describes the project this way: “The thought has been on my mind for quite some time, but I am not interested in racing”.

The Zonda R is born with full liberty. The target: the ultimate performance at the racetrack without any implications of rules, except for safety, where no compromise is allowed. In September 2006 the first drawings were ready, but it was crucial to have the support of Mercedes-AMG for a high revving engine with a power output of 750hp, dry sump, light and with a low centre of gravity. The basis was the self supporting engine of the mighty CLK GTR, which has dominated the GT championships.

Even at constant racing pace the engine would have to cover over 5.000 km before servicing. The challenge has been accepted without hesitation. The Zonda R is a car designed from scratch, with only 10% of the Zonda F components to be carried over. The suspension forged in Avional, a new Pagani six speed transversal sequential gearbox, carbon fibre monocoque, aeronautical four pump fuel tank are only part of the equation.

The wheelbase has grown by 47mm, the overall length by 394 mm and the track is increased by 50mm. The bodywork and aerodynamics have been studied to offer maximum downforce. Even though built for the track, the project would not have received kick off, if the quality and finish of the car and its details was not up to the level of the Pagani road cars.

One of the first cars to be delivered however will be kept in a living room, designed by Pagani and built with the same materials as the Zonda F, beautifully textured carbon fibre, avional, titanium, inconel and other state of the art materials. Additionally it will feature a bespoke HiFi System that will allow the customer to listen to the sound of this car at Le Mans and the Nürburgring.

The Pagani customers who have ordered the Zonda R will be relieved of almost 1.2 million + taxes.

Type V12 - M120
V - angle 60 degrees
Displacement 5987 ccm
Stroke 80,20 mm
Bore 89,00 mm
Valves per cilinder 4
Horse Power 750
Power output 551 KW at 7.500 1/min
Torque output 710 Nm
Aspiration Single throttle bodies, mechanically operated
Lubrification Dry sump with separate oil tank
Firing order 1-12-5-8-3-10-6-7-2-11-4-9

Production Ford Kuga Spied

2007-11-24T01:34:00.000-08:00

Here is the first photo of the production version of the Ford Kuga completely uncovered. We're not sure who the source is, but the hollywood extra has the scoop. Based on the Iosis X Concept, a production preview model debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show this past september showing us all but a few minor trim and specification modifications. Fortunately, it appears Ford have kept their promise - judging by this photo - the only visible difference is the addition of the aluminum roof rails.

Production will start early next year at Ford's Saarlouis plant in Germany with sales beginning throughout Europe sometime during the first half of 2008. Unfortunately, since this Kuga looks pretty cool, naturally, the U.S. won't be getting it.

Ford iosis X Concept

2007-11-24T01:19:00.000-08:00

Ford of Europe's Design team has interpreted the Company's distinctive new 'kinetic design' form language in an exciting new crossover concept - the iosis X – which makes its debut at the 2006 Paris Motor Show.

"We're calling this car iosis X as a deliberate link to our 'kinetic design' concept car lineage started last year," said Martin Smith, Ford of Europe's Executive Design Director. "The link is not just in the name – there's a strong visual relationship between the two cars, and the 'X' signals the new vehicle's crossover capabilities."

"The iosis X is an exciting five-door sports-crossover that proves we can extend the boundaries of kinetic design into a niche market vehicle,” added Smith. "It takes our 'energy in motion' philosophy even further and shows how different Ford cars will be in the future."

One of the specific purposes of iosis X is to prepare the public for the introduction of a future Ford of Europe niche model.

"There's been a lot of speculation about Ford producing a compact crossover or Sport Utility vehicle," said John Fleming, President and CEO, Ford of Europe. "The iosis X is intended to send a very strong message that we will be entering this market in around eighteen months from now, and that our new model will be both stylish and individual."

Ford iosis X is very clearly a concept and is not intended to be representative of this future production model. Instead, it sets out to explore the ways in which Ford's kinetic design form language and detailing can be applied to a niche vehicle in a rugged and exciting way.

"Customers will be able to get a feel for the design direction our production model will take, and when we do reveal that model next year the relationship between it and the iosis X will be immediately apparent," Smith explained.

In a stunning concept at Frankfurt 2005, Martin Smith and his team revealed the new form language that ultimately will be applied in varying levels across Ford's future European vehicle portfolio. The original iosis presented all of the key elements of what Ford identified as 'kinetic design' in their purest form.

“The iosisConcept has been a great ambassador for Ford design,” said Smith, adding “the reception it received from the public and the media gave us the confidence to stretch our design team even further for future Ford vehicles.”

Part of the task since iosis has been to widen the audience for this new look, and to generate a heightened expectation for what Ford is going to do next and demonstrate how 'kinetic design' could translate into other market segments.

The signal for that future direction is now revealed in iosis X. This dramatic concept car sends a clear message that the look of Ford’s European products is changing. Already, elements of kinetic design are appearing in Ford's latest new production models such as the Ford S-MAX and the all-new 2007 Ford Mondeo.

But, as with its concept predecessor, iosis X is not intended to be a future Ford production vehicle.

"What iosis X does do is to move our customers' understanding of our new design language on further," Smith concluded. "It demonstrates that 'kinetic design' is becoming a consistent and enduring reality in Ford's future and it assures them that when Ford enters this particular sector of the market, it will be with an individual and dynamic product that shares much of the excitement of this Concept."

“Feel the difference” – iosis X on the outside

“One of the aspects people recognised and liked about the original iosis was the considered complexity of the forms,” observed Stefan Lamm, Ford of Europe’s chief exterior designer, before explaining that “we wanted to explore and demonstrate how kinetic design could work on a high packaged body. This was one of the challenges for us, to maintain this dramatic, emotional design language on a car like iosis X.”

Lamm and his team were keen to exploit what appears to be an emerging trend for sporting crossovers or SUVs and a movement away from the traditional two-box styling that dominates the segment irrespective of vehicle size. "This opportunity suits kinetic design perfectly – iosis X is more of a four-door coupé crossover which is very compact and emphasises Ford’s driving dynamics."

Lamm and his team wanted to move the 'kinetic design' story on while retaining all of the key elements of the form language. As a result, the chunky five-door sports coupé crossover couldn’t be more different in its stance and dimensions to the original iosis Concept, a sleek muscular four-door coupé, yet the two are undeniably linked.

"This vehicle shows how we can apply kinetic design principles to a different type of vehicle," said Martin Smith. "We’ve taken all the key themes and graphic elements first seen on iosis and morphed them into a very sporty crossover with the footprint of a compact C-segment car.”

At the front, iosis X features the bold new Ford of Europe face translated into a more rugged look to convey the strength of the vehicle.

Most noticeable are the strong inverted trapezoid elements, including a prominent lower grille section.

"The dominant lower inverted trapezoidal grille is now a really strong brand element,” commented Lamm.

Appropriately for a crossover, the lower grille has been enhanced further by reducing the upper grille to little more than a ram air intake – a horizontal slot bisected by a bright metal bar and featuring a deliberately large Ford blue oval badge that appears to be thrusting forwards from within the engine bay.

Impending pedestrian impact legislation has influenced Ford's distinctive approach to front overhang and headlamp design. The front corners are aggressively chamfered, reducing the apparent size of the overhang, while the large headlamps follow the chamfering into the front wings, resulting in a distinctive kicked back appearance.

"Rather than see the pedestrian protection legislation as an inhibitor to the design philosophy, we now treat it as a positive design attribute," said Smith. "To accommodate the required volume in the front of the vehicle we have not only chamfered the corners back, but we have included a deep offset from the top of the hood to the front wings, creating a distinctive shoulder that runs along the side of the car to the rear."

In side profile, muscular surfacing and these strong and athletic shoulders run through the car, and are underscored by a dynamic undercut line that gives iosis Xan extremely dynamic stance, further enhanced by very bold wheel lips. Air vents aft of the front wheel arches, a key signature on the original iosis, appear also on iosis X, drawing air from the front brakes.

Side doors hinge outwards at the leading edge of the front door and rear edge of the smaller back door and are designed without a ‘B’ pillar to give easy access and an uninterrupted view of the stunning interior.

“When the car is viewed from three-quarters, either front or rear, the last visual points you should see are the wheels, and that’s just the case with iosis X," asserts Lamm. "I especially like looking at the car from the rear three-quarters view because that emphasises the undercut which develops in a different direction to the original iosis, with a stronger shadow at the rear gradually fading out to the front."

As well as balancing the proportions between the upper and lower body sections, this undercut gives the car its sleek proportions, and it seems to be moving forwards even when standing still. This is further emphasised by the swooping roofline and daylight opening that has a coupé-like profile at the rear. The resulting confident stance of iosis X belies its relatively compact C-segment size.

In addition to leading the eye around each of the corners at the front, acute chamfering also serves to disguise the longer rear overhang.

"It needs to be longer at the rear otherwise the roof line would stop abruptly and the car would look quite truncated,” explained Lamm.

Rugged and dynamically formed 'skid plate' claddings on the lower part of the vehicle stand off from the body and create a very new look.

“Usually there is some dark plastic or painted, grained plastic in the rocker area," Lamm explained. "We decided to move in a different direction and designed 'skid plates' as separate elements on the car that aren’t integrated into the shape but floating on the side panels. These were inspired by the aerodynamic foils we see on the side of a Formula One car.”

At the side, these 'skid plates' fold down to act as a step for easy access into the vehicle. They are fitted with rubber treads featuring the same patterns used in the tyres.

Key elements of kinetic design are trapezoidal shapes and three-dimensional forms and the interplay between them. Whilst the inverted grille at the front is the most obvious trapezoidal graphic it appears in many other interpretations throughout the exterior: the intakes at the front, the chamfers at the base of the windscreen and rear window, within the wheels, in the ‘C’ post kink and the ridges running down the bonnet are all elements of this basic shape.

A bird’s eye view is the best illustration of iosis X’s 'three-plane plan" form but this is also hinted at within the unique wheels which Lamm considers to be the most extreme so far designed by his team. “Mixing the finishes within the wheels heightens the three-dimensional effect, especially on the perimeter castings that look as if they could almost be scooping the mud and water out of the way.”

Lighting elements have developed significantly since the original iosis, and for iosis X, the team has been able to capitalise on the use of latest lamp technology.

Both front and rear lamps deploy LEDs in a highly detailed execution featuring swept back top edges. But what excites Lamm is not just their 3-D structure but the way in which they seamlessly follow the contours of the body.

"Too many vehicles feature elements that look as if they’re attached to the surface or are poking through apertures that have been cut into the body work," clamed Lamm. "That’s not the case with iosis X. The lamps appear to be formed as one with the surface, which gives a terrific 3-D effect and, if you look at the rear lights, you can see obvious links to the new S-MAX and Galaxy.”

Wing section door mirrors housing spotlights are mounted high up on the ‘A’ pillars while the rear fog lamp runs the width of the car above the rear skid plate that also floats away from the bodywork.

There was intense debate about the car’s colour before the team arrived at their final choice.

Unusually for this class of vehicle, iosis X is finished in an icy, brilliant white chilled further by a blue 'flip' effect in the paint finish which is set off by twin silver stripes running the length of the bonnet and etched into the glass roof.

“Most products of this type tend to be modern interpretations of moss green or greys. We thought it would be fun to do iosis X in a sheer white. That's appropriate for us as we have a history of using white to good effect - think of the GT40s and rallying Escorts – and the current Fiesta ST is very popular in white with blue racing stripes,” Smith said.

“It’s not a pure white, because that would make the car look pretty heavy," explained Lamm. "The paint we have created features a blue 'flip' effect that changes tone with light and helps describe the forms and shapes in the car."

Inside iosis X - Optical Impact

Ford's interior design team, led by Nikolaus Vidakovic, have created a dramatic and exciting interior for iosis X.

“We started with all of the positive elements from the original iosis project, and evolved these to deliver even more visual interest and drama that you might not expect from a crossover,” Vidakovic explained.

The interior is dominated by a new 'interlocking bridge' centre console structure inspired by modern helicopter cockpit design. The large console dives down from the instrument panel dividing the front and rear pairs of seats and dominating the interior before dramatically sweeping upwards at the rear and into the roof.

"Think of a Scorpion's tail!" added Vidakovic.

The rear section of this console has a practical side to it as well, as it provides a support and opening mechanism for the one-piece rear hatch in place of traditional hinges. It also provides a secure location for the spare wheel.

A central overhead panel contains personal lighting for the front and rear occupants plus ambient lighting and an entertainment screen for rear passengers. It also houses three passenger grab handles which would traditionally be located on the cant rails above the doors.

Twin glass roof panels flank the central overhead console, and these are complemented by a totally unique new feature – a solid glass floor beneath the drivers and passenger seats which offers a most unusual view of the terrain below.

“Because this is a rugged crossover rather than a four-door coupé, we needed to make different interior design decisions," Vidakovic said. "At the front, you have the usual functional elements you need to control a car, but when you go rearwards we introduce elements more appropriate to this type of vehicle such as lighting and storage features.”

The slim instrument panel is a further development from that in iosisand some elements of this theme will undoubtedly feature in future Ford products.

New technology has allowed the interiors team to locate hardware for the information, entertainment and heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems remotely away from their controls. This has dramatically freed up space under the instrument panel, creating a floating centre console and offering a greater feeling of spaciousness. It also allowed the team to develop a range of practical storage facilities that customers could choose from, allowing them to tailor that area for their own needs.

A similar section in the rear console opens up the floor space for the back seat passengers.

The slim instrument panel flows through into the door lines, creating a dramatic cockpit feel for the front seat occupants. Facing the driver is a radical steering wheel developed from that used in the original iosis, featuring orange perspex sections and contrasting white 'piano' inserts.

The controls in iosis X employ soft touch screens and touch sensitive controls in the centre stack.

The main instruments present themselves in the form of a pair of orange illuminated transparent foil dials that create a deep 3-D effect, and are housed in individual goggle-like binnacles. Between them is a Ford HMI screen that allows easy driver control of navigation, advanced cruise control or other vehicle settings.

Although iosis X is not intended to be a mechanical prototype, it is fitted with an electronic sequential gear change control in the centre console. Its innovative design is similar to that found on many computer games consoles, and fits snugly into the palm of the hand. Surrounding the gear shifter is a series of soft touch buttons for dynamic controls, including suspension and traction settings.

Air vents, which are usually a dominating feature of any fascia, have been subtly disguised with fine mesh blending them into their surroundings.

“We’ve spent a lot of time developing this mesh over the years,” revealed Vidakovic. “It took a lot of work to get it right so that the mesh wouldn't vibrate or restrict air flow to the passengers.”

Orange mood lighting, created by light emitting diodes and light pipes, illuminates the interior. However, not much lighting is needed in a car that features not only frosted glass panels in the roof (to continue the twin silver stripes from the bonnet over the roof) but also a glass floor.

“We wanted to create the feeling that driver and passengers are connected to the outside world and can see their surroundings more clearly," Vidakovic said. "The glass floor is absolutely unique in a vehicle, like those that you get in boats which allow their passengers to look into the ocean. In this case, occupants will be able to see the elements beneath them as they travel.”

The glass floor also led the design team to develop a unique mounting system for the front seats with runners either side of the glass panels. The added benefit to this is that it gives the rear seat passengers more foot room beneath the front seats.

The seats themselves are highly complex and have been designed specifically with the rigours of cross country or light off-roading in mind, featuring more supportive padding in the upper back section and integrated seat belts.

“We’ve bought trapezoidal elements and themes into the interior to link with the exterior, whilst the interior sheet metal and piano white surfaces are also links with the bodywork to create a harmonious entity,” concluded Vidakovic.

Colour and Trim - Creating sophistication

“As our intention with iosis X is to stretch Ford's new design language further and introduce the next phase of execution and implementation, we wanted to echo this in the colour and material design strategy," explains Ruth Pauli, Chief Designer for Colour and Trim. "This means a new emphasis on quality and detailing, touch and surface design.”

As with the first iosis, Pauli and her team have taken extreme sports as the inspiration for the materials and effects seen in the iosis X's dramatic four-seater cabin.

“A friend of mine is very keen on extreme winter sports like heliskiing and ice climbing and after visiting a sports equipment fair in Munich we came away with a lot of inspiration as to how we were going to fashion the interior,” said Pauli.

Colours and textures in iosis X are very cool and fresh, contrasting the darker atmosphere of the original iosis. The similarity between the two comes in the athletic and sporty approach, with the emphasis on premium feel in iosis X, and realised in detail elements such as the seams, stitching and combination of materials.

For inspiration, Pauli and her team studied all the best quality ski equipment, including boots, helmets, body protection, goggles, gloves and the latest carbon skis as well as visual clips of personal music systems and fashion accessories. The result is crisp, fresh and young.

Traditional materials have their place too. Considerable use has been made of the finest European Nubuck and aniline leather available in Europe and the keen eyed will notice a subtle shift in tone of the blue used in the cabin.

"What we’ve selected here is a more subdued and sophisticated blue, which we then combine with very strong fluorescent accents, and orange highlights," explained Pauli. “This is a distinct change from Ford’s corporate blue, which is very bold and strong, very classic."

While most of the automotive world is using piano black for its interiors, Pauli's team has gone in the opposite direction using high gloss piano white on the centre console and in the steering wheel.

“We think white is a very strong theme from a product design standpoint and we have applied it to both the exterior and interior. We’ve given the white elements a sophisticated sportiness to show depth and quality of colour," Pauli explained.

"Inside, we have combined the white, high gloss piano finish with metal elements, contrasted with darker, premium leathers that really add a new level of sophistication to the materials story."

The result is a contrast between cold and warm textures that’s also enhanced by metallic elements in the interior to create tension in the material and colour combinations.

"We’re developing different textures and finishes to redefine a modern crossover interior," remarked Martin Smith.

A quartet of high end sports seats with integral seat belts provides the driver and passenger with high levels of comfort and support. All combine four different materials that were inspired by the technicality of skiing gear that Pauli and her team found so interesting.

The unique seats feature an aluminium skeletal structure and look as if they have been modelled from a human torso. They are clad in a combination of leathers and a complementary woven material specially created for this application with contrasting stitching. With its chain-link weave and coarse texture, its richness of detail gives it an almost 3-D appearance, whilst its coarse texture ensures it will provide plenty of grip for the occupants.

This theme is echoed in the inner door panels and across the instrument panel, where new technical materials and neoprenes are used as highlights or details. The major tactile areas of the doors and fascia are covered in leather to achieve a premium ambience to the interior.

The floating centre stack is a combination of piano white, translucent orange perspex to highlight new technology detailing and premium grade soft blue-grey hide.

By using piano white in the interior, there is a direct link to the car’s exterior both visually and emotionally.

As with the interior colours and details, it was snow and ice that inspired the exterior colour developed by Pauli and her team.

“If you look into tunnels of ice you see silvers and powdery whites and that’s reflected in iosis X exterior colours," Pauli notes. "This creates a technical, powder snow look and is enhanced by silver stripes contrasting with the cold blue flip of the paint."

“We believe that, for the first time, we have developed design elements that echo the free spirit of skiing and what’s associated with it," Pauli concludes. "Skiing can be a really emotional experience – the kind of experience we want people to enjoy when they enter the iosis X environment!"

Ford Kuga Concept

2007-11-24T01:09:00.000-08:00

FRANKFURT PREVIEW FOR NEW FORD KUGA CROSSOVER

COLOGNE, Germany, September 5, 2007 – Ford is releasing the first details of its new Kuga crossover at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, where the car will be previewed ahead of production early in 2008. The Kuga will be previewed alongside the new Ford Verve Concept small car and other exciting new products yet to be revealed on the show's first press day, September 11th.

The All-New Ford Kuga in Brief

Stylish Ford Kuga crossover will be previewed at Frankfurt Motor Show in near production form ahead of sales launch in early 2008
Inspired by the iosis X Concept that was revealed at the 2006 Paris Motor Show
Kuga is the latest showcase for Ford's 'kinetic design'
Impressive on-road driving dynamics with substantial off-road ability
Model range features 'intelligent' 4WD and FWD systems
Powered by Ford's acclaimed 2.0-litre 136 PS Duratorq TDCi diesel engine
Benefits from strong Ford Focus lineage
First crossover designed and developed in-house by Ford of Europe
To be produced at Ford's Saarlouis plant in Germany

Ford of Europe's product portfolio is expanding again – and in another new direction. The new Ford Kuga is an exciting 4WD crossover that combines style with technology and promises impressive on-road dynamics coupled with substantial off-road ability.

The new Ford Kuga will go on sale throughout Europe during the first half of 2008. "When we unveiled the stunning iosis X Concept car at the 2006 Paris Motor Show I promised that in less than two years we would enter this segment with an all-new vehicle developed and built in-house," said John Fleming, President and CEO, Ford of Europe.

"In delivering that promise, the commitment we also gave in Paris two years ago to add new and exciting niche vehicles to a newly energised Ford of Europe portfolio was also kept," Fleming added.

"Kuga offers a rare blend of a wagon and SUV features together with coupé-like sporting qualities," said Stephen Odell, Vice President for Marketing, Sales and Service, Ford of Europe.

"A major element of our strategy to return the Ford of Europe business to sustained profitability is the introduction of exciting new products – like Kuga – that attract new customers to the brand," explained Odell. "The S-MAX proved to us that there is demand for vehicles which offer the customer universal usability for work, leisure and family roles and where "driving pleasure" is also very important."

Unmistakably a Ford
One of the challenges of the Kuga development team was to give the vehicle Ford's acknowledged driving quality while at the same time delivering substantial off-road ability.

For this reason, the Ford Kuga will be available with an intelligent four-wheel-drive system which contributes positively to normal road use and helps give the vehicle an almost sporty dynamic ability. The fact that the Kuga will also be available as a front-wheel-drive only version simply emphasises the crossover concept of the vehicle.
Kuga's powertrain will feature Ford's established and highly fuel efficient 2.0-litre, 136 PS Duratorq TDCi common-rail diesel engine mated to a Durashift 6-speed manual transmission. Further details of the Kuga powertrain will be released closer to launch in early 2008.

Kuga Design - Standing Out
"Our kinetic design form language is very flexible and is giving an exciting look to all our new vehicles," said Martin Smith, Executive Design Director, Ford of Europe. "The iosis X Concept demonstrated how kinetic design could be adapted to the C-sized crossover segment of the market. All the expressive design elements of iosis X are clearly visible in the production vehicle. The new Ford Kuga is a dramatic addition to the Ford portfolio which develops our brand significantly."

Kuga closely follows the proportions and basic dynamic forms of the iosis X. This relationship is enhanced by the paint finish in the same unique 'Ice White' body colour and the bold wheel arches are filled with the same alloy wheels, as seen on iosis X which will be available to customers as a 19-inch option. Strength and athleticism in the design are key attributes of Ford's 'kinetic design' philosophy. Kuga demonstrates this through its dynamic lines, full surfaces and muscular presence. This athletic form language is highlighted with the bold kinetic graphics such as the trapezoidal front grills, rising belt-line and kick-up of the rear window graphic and the dramatic swept back headlamp shapes.

For the production Ford Kuga the coupé-like roof profile of the iosis X Concept has been adjusted to a slightly higher silhouette offering comfortable accommodation for five people.

The luggage compartment is accessed via a split tailgate and this, together with the divided rear lights, ensures the maximum full load width is available for loading and unloading.

Finally, the rear end design of Kuga also incorporates the graphic elements of 'kinetic design' such as the high mounted tail lamps, facetted rear glass and sculptured rear bumper. The rear bumper neatly integrates the tailpipes into the contours of the diffuser.

Kuga Interior – Space and Comfort
The interior of the new Ford Kuga has a spacious feel – and not just because of the large panoramic glass roof fitted to the preview model and available as an option in production.

The clean, ergonomic design of the instrument panel and centre stack converge into a voluminous centre console for maximum accessible storage. These interior components contribute to a comfortable surrounding for the driver and front seat passenger. The high seat and shoulder line position of the doors offers the opportunity for maximum glazed areas to give a light and airy environment for passengers and provides the driver a commanding view of their surroundings.

The materials chosen for Kuga's interior also demonstrate the close links to the iosis X Concept. In Kuga we see once again technical materials, fine leathers and striking orange piping. The Ebony interior is set off by a centre console and details in the door which also feature the piano-white finish from iosis X. All these elements together show how Ford intends to enable Kuga customers in the future to personalise their vehicle.

A hint of the technology coming in Kuga is seen in the new Blaupunkt navigation system which incorporates a 7" colour display to also show images from a rear view camera incorporated into the tailgate. This new feature, to aid reversing manoeuvres, will find its way to the production version of the Kuga.

"We're very excited about Kuga, and believe that its blend of great looks, compact exterior dimensions, superb on-road driving quality, spacious and high quality interior and good off-road ability will allow it to stand out from the crowd," said Fleming. "We can't wait to see it on and off road early next year"

40th Anniversary Lotus Elise S Announced

2007-11-24T01:02:00.000-08:00

Lotus Launches ‘Elise S 40th Anniversary Limited Edition’
Lotus Cars is very pleased to release its limited edition for Mainland Europe – the Lotus Elise S 40th Anniversary Limited Edition. This unique limited edition is based on the entry-level model of the Elise Range – the Elise S – and commemorates the 40th anniversary of production at the Lotus factory in Hethel in 2007. The specification of the car is as follows:

Elise S – Model Year 2008, featuring twin airbags
Burnt Orange Premium Paint
Hardtop
Painted rear diffuser and wheels
Leather trim in orange stitching
Painted centre consol & exterior panels in body colour
Coloured brake calipers
Build plate
Country specific unique Decals
40th commemorative letter signed by Mike Kimberley, CEO of Lotus Cars Ltd.

The car is available from official Lotus dealers in Mainland Europe from today and the production numbers will be strictly limited to the following countries as below:

Germany 15
Switzerland 10
France 5
Belgium 5
Italy 6
Other countries in mainland Europe 9, (signified with the Union flag)

To celebrate both the 40th anniversary of production at the Lotus factory in Hethel, England and also the fourth consecutive year of sales growth in Europe for Lotus (up 9% year to date verses the same period last year) the car will be extremely competitively priced giving the customer an extra 10% extra value in terms of equipment and options. The only additional cost options are Air Conditioning and Lotus Traction Control.

The retail prices per country are listed below. Please take into account that all prices include local tax and delivery:

Germany: 39,995 EUR
Switzerland:CHF 58,600
France: 40,200 EUR
Italy: 40,800 EUR
Belgium: 40,600 EUR
Holland: 53,600 EUR

2008 Saturn Astra in Detail

2007-11-24T00:48:00.000-08:00

Saturn announced the addition of the all-new 2008 Astra to its lineup, bringing a decidedly European flavor to the North American compact car market. It is packed with a wide range of standard equipment and safety features, and delivers sporty performance with very good fuel economy.

The Saturn Astra will be offered in three-door and five-door models, each underpinned by a taught, European-bred suspension that delivers a sharp, responsive driving experience. Power comes from a 1.8L Ecotec four-cylinder engine that is both energetic and economical, delivering 140 horsepower (104 kW) and up to 34 mpg** on the highway.

"In Europe , the Astra's combination of style, performance, safety technology and fuel efficiency have made it a hit with owners and auto critics alike," said Jill Lajdziak, Saturn general manager. "Now, Saturn is bringing the newly restyled Astra to North America and marrying it with our celebrated customer experience."

The Astra will go on sale in the fourth quarter of this year. It is the fifth product in a complete revamp of Saturn's product lineup. In fact, when the Astra hits showrooms, the "oldest" vehicle in Saturn's portfolio will be the Sky roadster, which debuted in March 2006. Other new models include the all-new Aura sedan, the redesigned Vue compact crossover - including the Vue Green Line hybrid - and the Outlook crossover.

"It's not a stretch to say Saturn is all-new," said Lajdziak. "The Astra rounds out our portfolio with a smart-driving, well-equipped small car that shares the European designs evident in all our new vehicles."

Product highlights

Saturn offers two trim levels (XE and XR) for five-door models, and a single trim (XR) in the three-door configuration, which was created with more enthusiastic drivers in mind.

The standard powertrain combination in all models is the 1.8L Ecotec DOHC four-cylinder engine, which is paired with a five-speed manual transmission. The Ecotec engine is enhanced with variable valve timing to optimize power output and fuel efficiency. A four-speed automatic transmission is optional on all models.

The Astra offers technologies to provide an agile, yet comfortable, driving experience. StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with traction control is standard on all three-door Astras, and available on five-door models. This system works in concert with the standard four-wheel, antilock disc brakes to help the driver maintain control during adverse road conditions or during sudden emergency driving situations.

An electro-hydraulic, rack-and-pinion steering system is standard on all models. It provides the solid, linear feel of a hydraulic power steering system, but improves fuel efficiency by operating the power steering pump only when necessary. The system has two available configurations: the standard 15:1 ratio on five-door models and a 14:1 Sport ratio (standard on the three-door; optional on five-doors).

Five-door Astras come with standard 16-inch wheels, but can be upgraded to 17-inch aluminum wheels. Three-door models come standard with 17-inch aluminum wheels, which can be upgraded to 18-inch aluminum wheels and performance tires.

Design details

The Astra has a clean, contemporary design that is infused with Saturn's signature styling cues, including a bold, bright grille bar with prominent Saturn logo. Both the three-door and five-door models are distinguished from their European relatives with unique front and rear fascias that conform to North American bumper standards.

Rear-end styling also features a bright trim bar, with large, wraparound taillamps and clear lenses. The center high-mounted stop lamp uses LED technology for fast and crisp illumination.

Proportions on both body styles suggest an enthusiastic driving experience, with the wheels pushed to the corners and subtle fender flares wrapped tightly around the tires for a tailored stance.

Interior design and features

Bold design, refinement and precise execution are the hallmarks of the Saturn Astra's interior, which envelops passengers in a contemporary environment that maximizes space and comfort. Details include a continuation of the exterior's center hood crease on to the center of the instrument panel, as well as a V-shaped center stack motif that also complements the design language of the exterior.

All models convey the Astra's sporting character through firm, well-supported seats and a thick, three-spoke steering wheel with rake and telescopic adjustments. Ahead of the steering wheel is a rounded cockpit binnacle that houses a large, three-dimensional gauge cluster - including large speedometer and tachometer dials. The sporty Astra three-door receives specific seats with more aggressive bolsters and lumbar support.

Additional interior highlights include:

Illuminated glove box with damped door actuation
A large, two-panel sunroof: the largest in its class (available on five-door only)
Available heated seats in cloth or leather surfaces
Auxiliary 12-volt power outlet
Easy-to-remove rear cargo cover
Power door locks (with central locking feature) and power windows with express down feature
Standard six-speaker AM/FM/CD radio and available seven-speaker sound system; multi-disc and MP3-capable radios available
Steering-wheel mounted audio controls (on XR models)

Astra's bold proportions, including a long, 103-inch (2,614 mm) wheelbase and 80-inch (2,033 mm) width, provide exceptional roominess and generous storage capacity. The 60/40-split folding rear seat also folds flat with the touch of a single, high-mounted lever. When the rear seat is folded, the five-door Astra offers 44.8 cubic feet (1,270 L) of storage space.

Occupant protection features

The 2008 Saturn Astra features a comprehensive list of safety systems to help protect occupants in the event of a crash. Highlights include:

Rigid body structure with safety cage
Six standard air bags, including dual-stage frontal air bags; roof rail head curtain air bags and thorax/pelvic air bags (front-seat passengers)
Active head restraints
Collapsible pedals
Front safety belt pretensioners and load limiters
OnStar with one year of Safe & Sound service

Body structure: The unitized body structure is designed with a safety cage around the passenger compartment, and features optimized front and rear crush zones that absorb energy and help maintain the structural integrity of the passenger compartment. High-strength steel is used strategically throughout the body structure.

Air bags: All Astra models feature dual-stage frontal air bags, seat-mounted thorax/pelvic air bags to help protect front occupants and head curtain air bags for front- and rear-seat occupants. Also standard is an automatic passenger sensing system for the front passenger seat; it suppresses the activation of the passenger-side frontal air bag if it detects a child or smaller-stature person in that seating position.

Active head restraints and collapsible pedals: Standard active head restraints instantly move forward if a rear-end crash is detected, reducing the risk of neck injuries. Similarly, the collapsible foot pedals move during a crash to reduce the risk of leg or ankle injuries.

Safety belt pretensioners and load limiters: When a crash is detected, the safety belt pretensioners immediately reduce the slack in the front safety belts, helping limit the movement of passengers. The load limiters permit a small amount of movement in the front safety belts, thereby reducing peak chest loads in a more severe crash.

OnStar: Astra comes with the latest-generation OnStar system, including available Turn-by-Turn Navigation. The system also includes advanced automatic crash notification (AACN). With AACN, an OnStar advisor is immediately contacted by the vehicle when a crash occurs; the advisor can determine the appropriate emergency help required and assist in sending it to the scene of the crash. Astra buyers will receive one year of Safe & Sound Service provided by Saturn.

GM Product Schedule Released

2007-11-24T00:39:00.000-08:00

Details of the General Motors / United Auto Workers agreement have been released, including inside information about the future production schedule at the American auto maker. As part of the contract agreement, UAW sought assurances that GM would guarantee that certain products would continue to be built in American factories, as opposed to Canadian, Mexican, or overseas plants.

Included in a document released to the media by UAW were GM's plans to continue building current and future products at 16 of 18 U.S. assembly plants. Also included is apparently confidential information about GM product cycles. These plans include:

The Corvette and the Cadillac XLR will continue through 2011, with new models to begin production in 2012 at the Bowling Green, Kentucky plant.
After a couple of years of waiting, the new Camaro is expected to begin production in 2011 at Lansing, Michigan.
Pontiac's Solstice and the Saturn Sky roadsters will continue assebly through 2012 in Wilmington, Delaware, but they have no announced replacement at this time. The car is rumored to begin production that year in Bowling Green, Kentucky, opening the door for a possible redesign of the two-seaters. Sadly, this could mean the end of the Wilmington plant.
The Chevrolet Volt, a highly-anticipated electric car, will begin production in 2010 at a plant near Detroit. The MPV7 will also go into production here starting in 2009.
The Pontiac G6 will continue being made in Orion, Michigan, until 2013. Orion is not yet assigned a new vehicle to manufacture.
Cadillac models CTS, STS, and SRX will all continue to be built for two years, with a new CTS wagon and CTS coupe starting up in 2009. Two more cadillac styles are expected to be manufactured beginning in 2011. This will all take place in Lansing, Michigan.
Current models of the Hummer H3 and H3T will end in 2011, with updated models heading into production that year in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Also in Shreveport, the Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon will only exist up through 2011.
Cadillac's DTS and the Buick Lucerne will stay in production through 2010 near Detroit, in Hamtramck.
Buick Lucerne and Cadillac DTS continue in Hamtramck until 2010.
The Lansing/Delta Michigan plant will also see several GMC, Saturn, and Buick products continue assebly through 2011, with replacements coming in 2012.
A brand new, globally distributed subcompact is to be produced in Lordstown, Ohio, where the Chevy Cobalt and Pontiac G5 small cars are already built. Those cars will be phases out in 2009. Two new cars will also be manufactured here starting in 2011.
GM will be closing a plant in Doraville, Georgia. Workers there have already been notified.

The one assembly plant not mentioned in the deal builds midsize SUVs. The Moraine, Ohio, location is not mentioned because a separate union covers workers there.

``The whole thing looks fantastic,'' said Dave Green, UAW local president in Lordstown, Ohio, where new subcompacts will be built. However, the nearly 1,000 employees in Doraville, Georgia, might not feel the same. They have since discovered their plant will be shuttered.

Despite what others are reporting, this deal is certainly not final. With 16,000 employees becoming eligible for buyouts for carrying out non-essential duties, and new hires in noncore functions expected to get half the starting salary of an assembly line worker, there is the possibility that union employees will not ratify the agreement.

GM's 74,000 UAW members are to vote on the contract, with voting expected to be complete by October 10.

Vauxhall Corsa VXR Styling Kit (UK)

2007-11-24T00:28:00.000-08:00

Genetically modify your Corsa

Vauxhall’s highly acclaimed new Corsa hatchback looks great from any angle, but now thousands of customers who rushed out to buy one soon after launch can add extra flair and excitement inspired by the manufacturer’s VXR racing team.

The aftersales experts at Vauxhall have come up with a VXR styling kit that provides more than a flavour of the factory model, but will not break the bank. It’s available from Vauxhall retailers throughout the country now.

Made to fit both three and five door versions of the latest generation Corsa, the kit consists of a front lower spoiler, rear roof spoiler, side sills and rear lower skirt to recreate the dramatic styling cues of Vauxhall’s race-inspired range of high performance cars.

The full VXR styling kit can be supplied and fitted to match body colour for £1249. If your funds will not run to that, the rear roof spoiler can be supplied and fitted on its own for £269.

No car customising is complete without a set of stylish alloy wheels. A whole new range of Irmscher alloys specially designed for the new Corsa are available from Vauxhall retailers, with prices starting at £391 for a set of four 14 inch wheels.

Vauxhall Tigra Exclusiv Red Edition (UK)

2007-11-24T00:22:00.000-08:00

New Tigra Exclusiv Red edition from just £15,515
Extras worth up to £1,350 for no additional cost
Bold and striking red leather interior and unique alloy wheel finish

With spring just around the corner, every driver dreams of catching some rays in a stylish and dynamic drop top. Now there is a way to get the most Exclusiv roadster on the street at a surprisingly affordable price.

The new Tigra Exclusiv Red edition is based on the Sport model, but features an extra £1,350 worth of goodies for no additional cost.

Perhaps Tigra Exclusiv Red’s most distinct feature is the bold interior. The two seats and door trim inserts are trimmed in scarlet leather, and the red treatment is even mirrored in the gear lever surround. This is complemented with the usual classy fixtures you would expect from Tigra such as a leather covered steering wheel, alloy effect centre console and gear knob insert.

It’s not just the interior which gets the Exclusiv look. This special Tigra is available in three metallic or pearlescent colours, Metro Blue, Star Silver and Black Sapphire, each with the distinctive silver-finish targa roof bar. The Tigra Exclusiv Red also sits on uniquely-finished 17-inch alloy wheels.

As with all Tigras, it’s not just the sunny weather which makes the Exclusiv Red shine. The hard top roof raises up in just 20 seconds to make the car as snug and secure as a coupe, and the leather seats are heated to make open top driving even more comfortable during cooler months. If the sun gets too hot, then air conditioning is standard to make sure you can keep looking – and feeling – cool.

A choice of two petrol engines are available, a nippy 1.4-litre and a punchy 1.8-litre. Both are available now from Vauxhall retailers, with prices starting at £15,515.

Vauxhall VXR8: In Detail

2007-11-24T00:18:00.000-08:00

Introduction

There was every reason to mourn the passing of the Monaro, but the Thunder from Down Under hasn't stopped yet.

What better to replace the 6.0-litre V8, rear-drive Aussie performance icon with than an all-new Antipodean muscle car. A car, in fact, just like the VXR8 a car even more powerful and exciting than the Monaro.

The dramatic-looking new saloon is powered by the same 6.0-litre V8 as the outgoing Monaro VXR, but revisions have made it even more efficient. It now develops a massive 417PS and 550Nm of torque, giving it enough grunt to sprint from 0-60mph in just 4.9 seconds. No other supercar offers this sort of power for anywhere near the VXR8's bargain price of just 35,105 pounds.

Yet the VXR8, based on the Australian Holden VE HSV Clubsport R8, offers more in the way of practicality than the Monaro, with four doors and space for all the family.

Although practical, with a spacious boot, comfortable, long-legged cruising ability and luxuries such as climate control and leather trim, the VXR8 is certainly no softie. Driver aids such as the stability system and traction control can be turned off at the flick of a switch perfect for drivers who want to hone their skills on a track day!

In response to customer demand, the VXR8 will also be the first VXR model to be offered with an automatic gearbox, but that doesn't mean that VXR shifted to being dull. Performance figures are hardly affected, and the auto's fuel economy is actually better than the manual's.

Satellite navigation and 20-inch wheels are among the options for those who want to make their VXR8 look more distinctive and help find their way to the best driving roads. Even with all the option boxes ticked however, the VXR8 is still around half the price of other cars with comparable performance. As all fast car fans know, Aussie rules and here's why...

New Opel Vectra/Saturn Aura Spied in Death Valley

2007-11-24T00:07:00.000-08:00

Flagship shot in the dessert

Shot during secret hot-weather testing in the U.S., these are the best pictures yet of the all-new Opel Vectra which is to replace the current model by the end of next year! The new Epsilon 2 platform will allow a wider and taller body than currently, which should mean more space inside for passengers – something that's vital in a class where machines such as VW's Passat have really upped standards. The wider stance should also mean an even more composed driving experience.

Almost undisguised for the first time are details of the newcomer's styling. Obviously, they will follow the Astra and Antara SUV with a bold front end and a radical fastback profile. A higher-quality cabin will also be key to keeping the new model on terms with its rivals. And it's inside that the new Vectra will make the biggest leaps over the existing car. Flagship Vectras will get a system called Traffic Assist, which has an array of lasers and video cameras that scan the road ahead for warning signs, lane markings and other traffic – meaning the Opel will be the world's first 'driverless' car. Another first will be the arrival of a 4WD version, while the wider engine range will include a 200bhp 2.7-litre V6 turbodiesel, plus a development of the 2.8 V6 petrol. On sale in late 2008, the new Vectra should debut at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show. The Vectra will be available afterwards in the US as the Saturn Ar in 2010.

Opel GTC Concept

2007-11-23T23:44:00.000-08:00

Spectacular Reveal of Striking Opel GTC Concept

Geneva. On the eve of the 77th Geneva Motor Show, Opel illuminated the night. Supported by a dramatic light show, the Opel GTC Concept (Gran Turismo Coupé) made its spectacular debut at the "GM Premiere Night."

Heralding a new design era for the brand, the GTC Concept gives an insight into how Opel's design language will look in the future. Adding to progressive shapes and surfaces, the four-seat coupé features unique LED lighting concepts in the front and rear, providing a new signature lighting style for the brand.

The reveal's exciting light show highlighted the GTC Concept´s signature illumination theme by utilizing state-of-the-art LED technology for the huge stage wall. The car then strutted down a long runway to its final resting spot on a turntable in the center of the room.

Visual effects of the evening were also part of the futuristic iBar concept: Items like mobile phones or drink glasses rested on the bar tops were connected by animation of the concept car and the Opel emblem. In addition, a common denominator of the show was the color red, reflecting the interior lighting theme of the concept car and the red line in its seats, steering wheel and tires.

Two live performances of the U.S. band "Pink Martini" and a fashion show of the hip Spanish label "Mango" rounded off the spectacular presentation of the GTC Concept.

"This evening's presentation perfectly highlighted the GTC Concept as the new interpretation of the Opel brand," explained Alain Visser, Executive Director, European Opel Marketing. "The concept car´s exciting lines, high driving dynamics and interior flexibility reflect what the Opel brand trademark characteristics will be in the future." "With the GTC Concept our team envisioned the new essence of Opel - more confident, relevant and distinctive - in a high-performance four-seat coupé," said Bryan Nesbitt, Executive Director, GM Europe Design. "This style is what to expect of future Opel products."

Key elements of the GTC Concept (length/width/height: 4830/1867/1432 millimeters, wheelbase: 2737 mm) begin with an aggressive front end performance face emphasized by large aluminum vertical intakes that intersect the headlamps. These vertical elements are mimicked in the rear exhaust elements. Another significant design cue of the two-door sport-coupé is the sophisticated bodyside shapes and surfacing.

Echoing the exterior, the interior visually articulates a dynamic driving experience and reveals a new standard of Opel aesthetics. Brand-typical on-board flexibility is ensured by the thoughtful "Flex4" system. The backs of both rear seats can be docked separately to the front seats by remote control, creating a spacious three or two-seater with flat load floor.

The Opel GTC Concept is powered by a 220 kW/300 hp, 2.8-liter V6 turbo gasoline engine and features an intelligent, electronically-controlled four-wheel drive system.

Opel GTC Concept Heralds New Design Era for the Brand

Dynamic and unexpected: New interior and exterior design language
Striking and elegant: Lighting concepts provide new signature style
Flexible and innovative: From four to two-seater at touch of a button with “Flex4”
Intelligent and variable: Four-wheel drive for optimum traction in all driving situations

The world premiere of the GTC Concept (Gran Turismo Coupé) at the 77th Geneva Motor Show gives an insight into how dynamic and refreshing Opel's new design language will look in the future. "This concept car demonstrates the new interpretation of the Opel brand," explains Alain Visser, Executive Director, European Opel Marketing. "The GTC Concept embodies the confident, emotional direction we're taking with Opel. Its exciting lines combined with its high driving dynamics and interior flexibility reflect what the Opel brand trademark characteristics will be in the future." Even a new, more refined brand emblem, with the Opel name proudly embossed into the Blitz ring, is suggested.

"The GTC Concept importantly signals the next chapter in Opel's design identity," says Bryan Nesbitt, Executive Director, GM Europe Design. "Our team strategized to envision the new essence of Opel - more confident, relevant and distinctive - in a high-performance, yet versatile, four-seat coupé. This style is what to expect of future Opel products.

"You have seen a number of recent concept cars become reality at Opel," says Hans Demant, Opel´s Managing Director and GME Vice President Engineering. "Concepts like the GTC Genève and Antara GTC or the Flex-Fix rear carrier system from the TRIXX previewed their production variants. This car is a confident ambassador for the brand and could play a similar role for us, previewing the engineering and design cues of our next-generation Opels."

The four-seat coupé is powered by a 220 kW/300 hp, 2.8-liter V6 turbo gasoline engine and features an intelligent, electronically-controlled four-wheel drive system, which provides optimum traction and stability as well as excellent agility in all driving conditions.

Brand-typical on-board flexibility is ensured by the thoughtful "Flex4" system (patent application submitted). The backs of both rear seats can be docked separately to the front seats by remote control, creating a spacious three or two-seater with flat load floor and up to 1020 liters of luggage compartment capacity. As is typical of Opel cars, the seats do not have to be removed or installed.

Dynamic design: Visually communicating the Opel brand promise

The GTC Concept reveals the next-generation of Opel styling. Much like the Opel Speedster did in 1999, or the GTC Genève Concept did in 2003 this car marks a break in the evolution of Opel's design language and signals that the next chapter is about to be written.

Key elements of the silk grey-lacquered Coupé concept car finished with a matte grey paint (length/width/height: 4830/1867/1432 millimeters, wheelbase: 2737 mm) begin with an aggressive front end performance face emphasized by large aluminum vertical intakes that intersect the headlamps. These vertical elements are mimicked in the rear exhaust elements, proposing an unmistakable down-the-road signature performance graphic, coming or going.

The proud front is highlighted by a prominent, trapezoidal grille with signature Opel bar and Blitz, executed in polished aluminum, and gracefully finished with a bolder Opel Blitz emblem concept. The centerline crease coupled with the distinctive aluminum vertical intakes and outboard LED vertical driving lamps choreograph in harmony to visually communicate power and strength. The distinctive design continues with LED technology, enabling creative headlamp inner shapes that propose a night time signature illumination graphic in the front and rear lamps.

Another significant design cue of the two-door sport-coupé with its sleek silhouette is the sophisticated bodyside shapes and surfacing. The sheetmetal surfaces suggest athleticism coupled with elegance to provide tasteful distinction in a visually loud marketplace. The car features sculpted side lines that further progress the Opel profile shown on the Antara and Opel GT production vehicles.

In addition, large flares hug the aggressive wheel and tire package, visually suggesting road confidence to the customer. Thanks to the wide track (front/rear: 1627/1629 mm), the Opel GTC Concept provides a commanding stance, planted by 20-inch rims with 245/40 R20 "red line" styled rubber. The wheels reference the motor sport aesthetic of black rims - however, elegantly finished with high- gloss black spokes contrasted with machine polished edges, alluding a signature performance wheel look.

The GTC Concept's rear visual solutions strategically echo the design language of the nose with an integrated rear bar and blitz emblem resting on the distinctive Opel rear center crease. Sophisticated surface development sculpturally integrates the rear spoiler into the sheetmetal to visually communicate performance. The rear appearance features Opel signature shaped rear lamps, uniquely displaying a LED night lighting graphic showcasing the exterior brand identity. The smart exterior shape and aerodynamic characteristics are rewarded by the cD value of 0.25.

Interior design: Warmer and more inviting

Opel's interior designs have progressed to become warmer and more inviting in products like the new Corsa, Antara and Opel GT. However, the Opel GTC Concept significantly represents the next chapter of Opel's interior brand identity. Echoing the exterior, the interior shapes and surfaces are sculpturally-crafted to visually articulate a dynamic driving experience. The dashboard's top-pad wraps around from the instrument panel to the door, embracing the occupants. The sweeping décor dynamically stretches one's eye from the surfaces of the door and instrument panel, creating a memorable environment. The horizontal theme is secured with a large integrated centerstack design floating above the décor surface, an appearance reminiscent of premium audio equipment.

Complementing the exterior material theme, matte ebony surfaces are contrasted with rich high-gloss piano black décor finishes and structurally elegant aluminum accents, revealing a new standard of Opel aesthetics. The U-shaped aluminum graphic on the steering wheel is reflected again on the center console and the gear shifter, visually connecting the driving interfaces to emphasize Opel's driving dynamics. The rotating navigation control is ergonomically positioned, allowing it to easily be located and controlled by the driver, without having to remove his/her eyes from the road. The four, sporty, round instruments encircled by translucent rings are backlit in dynamic red, replacing Opel's traditional amber tones. These interior appearance solutions intentionally reinforce the dynamic ownership experience Opel provides.

As a final identity concept, the refined "redline" graphic of the tire pattern is vertically woven into the contoured sport seat surfaces and the centerline of the steering wheel, proposing that a visual performance identity can be distinctive without compromising taste. Intelligent packaging: Compact exterior with spacious, flexible interior "In the last few years, many cars have gotten bigger without passengers benefiting from it. We have reversed this trend with the Opel GTC Concept. In comparatively compact exterior dimensions, we optimized the decisive feel-good dimensions in the interior," says Frank Leopold, Manager GME Innovation, Show Cars and Advanced Packaging. "In this way, the car fits like a glove."

With the lower seating position and vertical hip point ? known as the H-point? , both front occupants sit perfectly integrated in the car. Thanks to the lower-set instrument panel, outward visibility remains excellent. This also provides a generous sense of space, an effect strengthened by its color: the instrument panel's upper section is dark, while the lower section is light.

The intelligent packaging is further highlighted by plenty of space in the rear of the Opel Concept car, despite its flat roof line: rear headroom is 920 millimeters. The rear seats are set low, but the four-seat, two-door car still offers Opel's brand-typical flexibility thanks to a novelty developed by Opel engineers: the "Flex4" interior concept (patent application submitted). "Flex4" enables the backs of both the rear seats in the Coupé concept car to be moved forward separately at the touch of a button via sensor-control and docked to the front seats. The luggage compartment cover is thereby automatically pulled over the remaining seat surfaces in the floor. This creates a three or two-seater with a flat load floor up to 1.80 meters long. Luggage compartment capacity increases from 500 liters to 755 liters (three-seater) or up to 1020 liters (maximum capacity: up to waistline). Powerful engine and intelligent four-wheel drive system

The Opel GTC concept car is powered by a turbocharged, 220 kW/300 hp, 2.8-liter V6 gasoline engine with two variable camshafts, which is combined with a six-speed manual transmission. Maximum torque of 400 Nm is available from 1850 up to 4500 rpm, and accelerating from zero to 100 km/h is calculated to take around six seconds. Top speed is limited to 250 km/h. The power from the high-tech turbo engine is channeled via an advanced, electronically-controlled four-wheel drive system, which is fully integrated into the car's adaptive IDSPlus chassis management system. An electronically-regulated torque transfer device seamlessly distributes power between the front and rear axles for optimum traction and driving performance. The high-speed control allows more power to be provided to the rear axle before any traction loss can occur, for example during quick acceleration. This creates a driving feel similar to a sporty rear-wheel drive car. An electronically-controlled limited slip differential at the rear axle provides additional stability and traction thanks to torque distribution between the rear wheels.

Major benefits of the Opel GTC Concept's intelligent four-wheel drive system are: optimum traction and stability in all driving conditions as well as excellent agility and an active driving feel.

Opel Vectra Interior Spy Photos

2007-11-23T23:41:00.000-08:00

All new dash

The fourth generation Opel Vectra displayed its first signs of life as the Opel GTC Concept at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show, and we have been trailling its progress to production status throughout the year. Our spy photograpghers were in Sweden for the winter testing, in Death Valley for hot weather testing and, of course, in Germany. We even have caught the much anticipated car on video!

The interior has been kept under wraps by the Opel engineers, untill now that is. Earlier today we managed to snap a few pictures of the all new interior. In comparison to the current Vectra, the dashboard seems all new and manages to give the cockpit a sportier look in the process.

The Opel Vectra 4 (or Vauxhall Vectra in the UK and Saturn Aura in the USA) will feature all new exterior styling and will be pitted against the new Ford Mondeo and VW Passat. The engine range is expected to be expanded with a 2.7 liter V6 Turbodiesel (200 hp) and 2.8 liter V6, also new will be the option for all-wheel-drive.

When the Opel Vectra will take its first bow at a motor show is not exactly clear, but rumours are that the London Motor Show in July may get that honour, it would then debut as the Vauxhall Vectra. We have some doubts about that here in the WCF newsroom, our money is on a Geneva world premiere in March 2008.

Bentley Continental GT Speed Test Drive

2007-11-23T23:35:00.000-08:00

New money, new looks and new attitude

Deep in the mountains of Seville, known as Spain’s frying pan thanks to heat well in excess of 35 degrees, a fleet of air-conditioned, relaxed Bentley Continental GT Speeds carved up the side of the mountain in abject luxury at ludicrous speed.

The Continental GT turned Bentley around, bringing a niche, halo brand formerly accessible only to royalty and the seriously rich to a young, hip audience with cash to burn. It might cost the same as a decent house, but it’s still cheap by Bentley’s standards.

Ramping up production from just 1000 cars a year just four short Christmases ago, before the Continental, to 10,000 now speaks tales of unmitigated success. The price paid in terms of brand value is more than compensated by the first profits for many a year and we’ll soon see even more, because the car that revived the company has just got better.

Bentley knew they could do more and were unhappy with the number of customers heading to the tuning houses to boost the power of their creation. So they set to work honing their best seller ever to create a machine that can take the Manchester United set to training and fly up the side of a mountain with equal aplomb. The result is frankly scary and would leave the brightest minds in Physics staring at the floor in disbelief, their figures and facts reduced to dust before their eyes.

For a start this is the first ever production Bentley that officially tops 200mph thanks to some nifty tweaks to the six-litre V12 twin turbo, including lighter conrods, new pistons, better cooling and less internal friction, plus a fraction more boost, that give this monster a whopping 600bhp. And not only will it hit 202mph, it will also nail the 60mph dash in just 4.3s, which is less than it takes a Porsche Carrera and a monumental 0.3s faster than the standard Continental.

But that pace is delivered in a wholly different fashion. Plant the throttle in the Bentley and the brow lifts gently and it lopes down the road, rather than tearing holes in the horizon. The only real indicator of the Speed’s, errr, speed is the scenery flashing past the window at an obscene rate and the video game-style closing speeds on the car in front. It’s louder than the standard car, thanks to a fruitier exhaust, but it’s still every bit as refined as a Bentley should be.

Simply put it in Drive, plant the right pedal and let the car do the rest while the driver gets on with the important business, be it a phone call, playing with the perfectly engineered vent stalks, wondering why the aluminium dashboard looks so much like a 70s-style textured ceiling or finding the perfect settings for a flat out assault on the winding road ahead. And that’s when you switch to full manual mode, drop the car to its firmest and things start to get interesting.

Because Bentley went well beyond a quick power boost for this special edition. For a start the engineers at Crewe stripped 35kg from the kerbweight with lighter cooling and suspension components. And the optional ceramic brakes, at 430mm the biggest on any production car, will pull another 25kg from the final mass, but even with these additions the car still weighs in at a near incredulous 2325kg, so feeling this at the wheel would be like spotting that John Belushi had lost a few pounds after a few days on the celery – it just isn’t going to happen.

Far more important is the work on the suspension itself that lowered the self-levelling kit by 10mm at the front and 15mm at the rear on to 20 inch alloys clothed in Pirelli P Zeros – a mighty serious tyre for a luxury car. They’ve fitted a smaller steering wheel, too, which blesses this big barge with the kind of response that seems totally out of place with a machine that comes with all the trappings of a luxury motor.

Because flinging this car into the bends reveals a depth of feel, a car that responds and encourages insane driving. It’s a side of the car’s character that stays well out of sight, like the very best English butler, until you ask it to truly let rip. And then the beast within rears its head for a rip-roaring time as those mammoth wheels offer real feedback through the wheels and sports car entertainment.

The engineers at Crewe have sharpened the six-speed gearbox and unlocked more from the chassis than they had any right to. The limit on a car this big should be as hard to find as a needle in a haystack and should announce itself in violent storm of noise and tyre smoke, but within hours at the wheel we were nudging gently against the line, engaging the traction control that has been carefully doctored to cut in only when required on this four-wheel drive behemoth.

Our test roads came with a drop off the side of a mountain, and precious little barrier to catch our fall in the true Spanish tradition of Health & Safety. Yet still we piled into each and every bend with outrageous speed, feeding off the nuances fed back from the tyres. In the slower corners it eventually pulls wide as the lateral G pulled the weight to the outside, in faster bends it is simply impossible to unstick, fixing itself rigidly to the line and holding audacious speeds through nerve-jangling bends.

Only the Lamborghini-style paddles mounted on the steering column on the wheel felt wrong as they fell outside the natural grasp mid-corner, but the car itself is stunning on such roads and time and again we had to remind ourselves that this is a luxury car first and foremost as that expensive rubber squealed with delight.

Every reassuring stab on the brakes into a blind bend revealed that the ceramics, which cost more than a hatchback on their own, are well worth the investment too. When it comes to a Porsche or a Lamborghini they are vile creations, but mated to a machine that weighs the same as a small moon they make perfect sense. The added weight means feel isn’t such an issue in the heavier car and hammering a car this size around a mountain pass would cause steel discs to fade faster than an ice scultpture in Hell.

And despite this handling boon, the ride is better than the average car, too, thanks to softer roll bars and perhaps softer tyre pressures. When we blasted well into illegal figures in Spain, the dashboard lit up like a Christmas tree and told us in no uncertain terms that we were travelling too fast for the tyre pressures. If you want to go flat out, therefore, you’ll need to stop at a garage for a dose of air and the softer set-up might well have helped our impressions of the ride quality on Spain’s broken roads.

This notwithstanding, with such an improvement, and the average worth of the average Bentley buyer, it’s almost inconceivable that most customers will opt for the cheaper model when confronted with the Speed’s skills on such a road. But there was just one lingering doubt, considering how brash the average Continental GT driver is, they’ll be annoyed their car doesn’t scream from the hilltops that it cost 20 per cent more than the common or garden car that has taken over Britain.

Apart from a Speed logo on the kickplates, there’s just nothing to differentiate this car from the standard model. The lesser car will get the same upright grill and chrome headlight surrounds and no external badging to boast about their rock crushing power. For the traditional Bentley man that would be the way they’d like it, but the Continental GT is not a traditional Bentley, it’s part of the new breed of new money, new looks and new attitude.

Having to explain and point to minor details is not the way of the footballer, they like to show their increased presence with the kind of subtlety that would make the Bentley Boys of the 1920s weep. So some of them might still head to tuners like Mansory and MTM for the cosmetics.

For the purists, though, the Continental GT Speed is a marvel of engineering, a sportscar wrapped up in a heavyweight frame that carried us out of Spain’s frying pan as if it were on fire – in abject luxury of course.

Ford Closer To Selling Jaguar, Land Rover

2007-11-23T23:30:00.000-08:00

Indian automaker Tata Motors is one step closer to acquiring Jaguar and Land Rover from Ford after winning the support of the unions utilized by the British brands. A non-essential but still important victory for Tata, the unions' shop stewards voted that if Ford were to sell the two manufacturers they feel Tata would be the best choice.

The unions still seem to believe that Ford keeping Jaguar and Land Rover would be the best situation for the workforce.

Union leadership also met with rival bidders, One Equity Partners - a division of J.P. Morgan Chase - and Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., an Indian automaker. Tata apparently won over the union by saying they had no intention of moving or outsourcing workers to India, and top executives at Jaguar and Land Rover would likely keep their positions.

Ford acquired Jaguar for $2.5 billion in 1989, and Land Rover for $2.75 billion in 2000. Ford recently sold off Aston Martin for $925 million, and still needs more liquidity to satisfy its investors.

Aston Martin To Build Outside U.K.

2007-11-23T23:22:00.000-08:00

One of the most British brands of automobile in history may cease to be entirely British. The Financial Times is reporting that Aston Martin is nearing a decision that would have a builder outside the U.K. assemble the company's next model for the first time in history.

According to the Financial Times, the Aston Martin Rapide may be built by either Italian design and engineering firm Pinin-farina, Karmann group, based in Germany, Austria's Magna, and Magna of Finland. Magna builds the Boxster for Porsche. Aston Martin is considering bids from all four companies to assemble their new four-door saloon.

This decision by Aston Martin has been in the works for months, states the Financial Times. The thought process appears to have little to do with the sale of the luxury automaker by Ford to Kuwaiti investors.

Aston Martin, which turned 93-years-old this year, typically builds at their Gaydon headquarters in Warwickshire. However, with a surprising upturn over the last ten years in Aston Martin purchases, building at Gaydon is apparently at capacity.

The Aston Martin Rapide is expected for delivery in late 2009.

Subaru Justy Announced for UK

2007-11-23T23:15:00.000-08:00

Making its debut at this past Frankfurt Motor Show, Subaru presents the all-new Justy for the UK market. The previous Justy was a based on the Suzuki Ignis since 2004, however, this new supermini gets the Daihatsu Sirion as its new donor. Apparently, Toyota who has a common share in Daihatsu and Subaru is credited for making the arrangement.

The Justy is setting no speed records any time soon with a 0-60 mph time of 13.5 seconds and top speed of 99 mph, but the Justy achieves 64.2 mpg and 118 g/km CO2 emissions which are amongst the best performing figures in its class. As a result, the 1.0 liter three cylinder engine making 68 bhp an 69.3 lb-ft of torque which is the same engine found in the Toyota Yaris and Aygo, Citroën C1 and Peugeot 107 should be London Congestion charge-free when it goes into effect in 2008.

Seeking environmentally-conscious customers as well as those seeking ultra-low running costs, the new Justy's is priced at £8495 on the road and will be limited to 1000 units in th UK versus the 6000 in all of Europe. The Justy will be built at Daihatsu's main plant, Ikeda, in Osaka Japan.

Press Release

SUBARU INTRODUCES CONGESTION CHARGE-BUSTING SUPERMINI

Totally new five-door 1.0 litre Justy supermini
Outstandingly good fuel economy at 64.2 mpg Extra Urban
Outstandingly low emissions at 118 g/km
Should be London Congestion Charge-free
Outstandingly low running costs including £35 per year RFL
Standard five-year/60,000 mile warranty
Outstandingly high equipment such as ABS with EBD, air-conditioning, driver, passenger, side and four curtain airbags, alloy wheels, rev-counter, fuel-economy read-out, radio/CD player with auxiliary input socket, rear parking sensors, ISOFIX child-seat mountings, four electric windows and remote central-locking with alarm
Justy 1.0 R on sale now at only £8,495 on-the-road

Subaru’s new Justy supermini is now on sale, offering outstanding fuel economy, equipment and space plus ultra-low exhaust emissions which should make it exempt from the proposed new London Congestion Charge.

In fact, with a 64.2 mpg Extra Urban figure, ultra-low 118 g/km exhaust emissions and annual £35 Road Fund Licence, the new Justy 1.0 R promises to be one of the cheapest petrol-engined cars to run on UK roads.

However, the five-door body offers interior space from the next class up while the efficient, 69 PS three-cylinder 1.0 litre engine offers sufficient power for long-distance driving. Top speed, for example, is almost 100 mph and the 0-60 mph time is 13.5 seconds.

The new Subaru Justy also carries a peace-of-mind five-year/60,000 mile warranty backed by five-years’ UK and European roadside assistance.

Standard equipment is outstanding for a small car and includes: ABS with EBD, driver, passenger, side and front and rear curtain airbags, alloy wheels, air-conditioning, radio/CD player, rev-counter, fuel-economy read-out, four electric windows, reversing sensors, remote central-locking with alarm and ISOFIX child-seat mountings.

The front-wheel drive Justy is based on the Japanese-built Daihatsu Sirion. It is supplied thanks to an arrangement with Toyota which has a share in both Subaru and Daihatsu.

Subaru’s version will be limited to only 6,000 units per year throughout the whole of Europe and 1,000 sales in the UK, ensuring strong residuals.

Strong Customer Loyalty
Lawrence Good, Subaru (UK) Limited Managing Director said: “Everyone is very enthusiastic about the new Justy as it is will appeal to environmentally-conscious motorists and those seeking ultra-low running costs.

“Subaru dealers enjoy strong customer loyalty and the new Justy gives them a much-needed entry-level car to sell to both existing customers and new prospects.”

The new Subaru Justy carries a five-year/60,000 mile mechanical warranty and five-years’ UK and European roadside assistance.

It also has a 12-year anti-perforation warranty and its Group 5D insurance rating is also highly-competitive.

Spacious Interior
The new Subaru Justy has a particularly spacious five-seat interior clothed in a stylish body with an exceptionally low 0.31 Cd drag coefficient which improves fuel economy and high-speed touring and refinement.

Its wide-opening doors and 590 mm seat height allow easy entry and exit – especially appreciated by older customers. The rear doors, for example, open to 80 degrees. Luggage space measures 225 litres with the rear seat up and 630 litres (VDA) when folded, making it a practical small family car. Its turning circle is an especially tight 9.4 metres.

Well-Proven Powertrain
The punchy 1.0 litre twin-overhead camshaft petrol engine – mated to a manual five-speed gearbox is not only extremely economical and low-polluting but also well-proven.

In fact, the same three-cylinder engine not only sees service in the Daihatsu Sirion but also in the Toyota Yaris and Aygo, Citroën C1 and Peugeot 107.

Producing 69.3 PS at 6,000 rpm and 69.3 lb ft of torque at 3,600 rpm, the 12-valve unit offers some of the highest outputs for its class.

And the variable valve-timing enhances both low-speed pulling power and high-rev responsiveness.

Top speed is a highly competitive 99.4 mph with a 0-60 mph time of 13.5 seconds. Meanwhile fuel economy figures are class-challenging at 46.3/64.2 and 56.5 mpg on the Urban/Extra Urban and Combined Cycles.

In addition, the CO2 emissions are among the lowest available in a petrol-engined car at 118 g/km.

This puts the Justy in Band B for Road Fund Licence at only £35 per year and should result in it being London Congestion Charge-free when proposed new changes take place in 2008.

European-Tuned Chassis
The new Subaru Justy benefits from a European-tuned chassis which has long suspension-travel for a smooth ride. Unusually, anti-roll bars are fitted at the front and rear which combine with firm damping to aid agility.

The front suspension is via MacPherson struts and the rear is equally conventional featuring a torsion bar with separate coil springs. Its power steering is via an electric system which helps fuel economy but has been tuned for more feel than provided by some competitors.

Safety-wise, the new Justy’s multiple airbags are complemented by an advanced braking system featuring not only anti-lock ventilated front discs and rear drums (ABS) but also Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD). This optimises the braking force according to the weight distribution of passengers and luggage.

Performance And Economy:

	Top Speed mph	0-60 sec	Urban mpg	Extra Urban mpg	Combined mpg	CO2 emissions
Justy 1.0 R	99.4	13.5	46.3	64.2	56.5	118 g/km

NEW SUBARU JUSTY 1.0 R - SPECIFICATION

DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHTS

Overall length mm		3,600
Overall width mm		1,665
Overall height mm		1,550
Wheelbase		2,430
Track
	Front mm	1,460
	Rear mm	1,465
Ground clearance mm		150
Turning circle (kerb-to-kerb) m		9.4
Fuel capacity litres		40
Luggage capacity litres		Seat up
VDA		225
Load length mm		570
		Manual
Kerb weight kg		890
Payload		500
Towing weight kg
	Braked	750
	Unbraked	350
Gross vehicle weight kg		1390

ENGINE		1.0 litre
Type		Water cooled, three-cylinder mounted transversely. Four valves per cylinder with double overhead camshafts. Dynamic Variable Valve Timing (DVVT)

Bore and stroke		71 x 84
Capacity cc		998
Compression ratio		10.5:1
Maximum power PS (kW) (bhp)		69.3 (51) (68.4)
at		6,000 rpm
Maximum torque lb ft (Nm)		69.3 (94)
at		3,600 rpm
Fuel system		Unleaded 95 octane petrol. Electronic fuel injection

TRANSMISSION		Front-wheel drive with 5-speed manual

Clutch		Mechanically operated, single dry plate with diaphragm spring

		Manual 1.0
Ratios	1st	3.182
	2nd	1.842
	3rd	1.250
	4th	0.917
	5th	0.750
	Reverse	3.143
	Final rear drive	4.500
mph/1000 rpm
	1st	4.6
	2nd	8.0
	3rd	11.8
	4th	16.1
	5th	19.7

STEERING		Power assisted rack and pinion. Speed-sensitive electric system

SUSPENSION
Front	Independent, MacPherson struts and coil springs, anti-roll bar
Rear	Semi-independent with torsion beam axle, coil springs, anti-roll bar

BRAKES	Ventilated discs front, rear drums leading and trailing. Handbrake - mechanical on rear wheels. Four sensor, four-channel anti-lock (ABS) with electric brake force distribution (EBD)

TYRES	175/65 R14

WHEELS	14 x 5 ins alloy

PERFORMANCE	1.0 Litre Manual
Maximum speed, mph	99.4
0-62 mph, sec	13.5

Department of Transport fuel consumption figures, mpg (litres/100 km)

Mpg (litres/100 km)	1.0 Litre Manual
Urban	46.3 (6.1)
Extra Urban	64.2 (4.4)
Combined	56.5 (5.0)
CO2 Emissions, g/km	118

VW Create New United Special Edition Models

2007-11-23T23:06:00.000-08:00

Next month will be the start of Germany's biggest indoor soccer contest - the "Volkswagen United Masters", which will see 35,000 amateur footballers around the country competing for the crown in indoor soccer. To commemorate the event, VW will create "United" special edition models of the Polo, Golf, Golf Plus, Touran, Sharan, New Beetle, New Beetle Cabrio and Jetta ready for the big kick-off.

The pick of the entire series is the Golf United BlueMotion which has a fuel consumption of just 4.3 liters per 100km making this model the most efficient Golf available. This was achieved by making modification to the third, fourth and fifth gear ratios, aerodynamically enhancing the underbody and practically closing-off the front grille.

The Golf and Golf Plus models are treated to an exclusive Heaven Blue Metallic finish as well as 16-inch "Mugello" alloy wheels which you will also find on the Touran.

All models will feature the "United" logo decal on the quarter panel or rear door and for the interior you will find the new "Surprise" design, or leather versions of the gear-shift knob and the hand-brake lever.

Press Release

Driving the Team Spirit: Volkswagen’s special new “United” model is ready for kick-off

- Available as a Polo, Golf, Golf Plus, Touran, Sharan, New Beetle, New Beetle Cabrio and Jetta

- Golf United Blue Motion is the most efficient Golf of all times

The new United team line-up is ready for action. Effective immediately, the Polo, Golf, Golf Plus, Touran, Sharan, New Beetle, New Beetle Cabrio and Jetta are now available as a special edition with price advantages of up to 3,300 euro.

This new series of special models will lend its name to Germany’s biggest indoor soccer contest, the "Volkswagen United Masters", due to be held in 35 towns and cities around the country next spring. The tournament will see 35,000 hobby kickers competing for the crown in indoor soccer. The special pitch-side line-up will include the Polo, Golf, Golf Plus, Touran, Sharan, New Beetle, New Beetle Cabrio and Jetta "United".

The fittings package for these vehicles has been exclusively composed for the United series and ideally reflects what customers want. Depending on the model, highlights in the package include air-conditioning, a multi-functional steering wheel, a parking pilot and fog lights, as well as cruise control and an automatic driving-light system with the "coming home and leaving home" function. In the Golf, Golf Plus and Jetta United, driving assistance will also be provided by the "MFA Plus" on-board computer; the Golf and Golf Plus United come with a RCD 210 radio.

This new series of special models is recognisable by the "United" logo situated on the side section at the rear of the vehicle. The exclusive Heaven Blue Metallic finish for the Golf and Golf Plus and the 16-inch "Mugello" alloy wheels on the Golf, Golf Plus and Touran – optionally also available in a machine-polished finish – are genuine eye-catchers.

The special appeal of the interior design in this series is the originality of the fittings. The middle sections of the seats, for example, feature the new "Surprise" design, and leather versions are available for the gear-shift knob and the hand-brake lever. United vehicles also come with sporty accessories; the package contains a Nike football, sports bag and towel.

Golf United BlueMotion – The most efficient Golf of all times

What’s more, the Golf United is also available in a BlueMotion configuration with a price advantage of 2,312 euro. The Golf BlueMotion United boasts fuel consumption of 4.3 litres per 100 km and CO2 emissions of only 115g/km, making this two-door model the most efficient Golf available right now and one of the most environmentally friendly vehicles in its class. These top qualities were achieved on the back of modifications to the engine proper, longer gear ratios in the third, fourth and fifth transmission levels, a cd-enhanced underbody, and a practically closed-off radiator grille.

Prices

All United models are available for order immediately. The choice of diesel and petrol engines for all five series is oriented on the Trendline models, and some of the models (the Golf, Golf Plus and Touran United) are available with a double-clutch gearbox. The Polo United is available from 14,275 euro (price advantage: up to 2,389 euro), the special Golf and Golf Plus United models are available from 18,525 euro (price advantage: 2,312 euro) and 20,125 euro (price advantage: 2,422 euro), respectively. The basic price for the Touran United is 25,575 euro (including a winter package; price advantage: up to 1,407 euro), that for the Sharan United is 30,025 euro (price advantage: 3,300 euro). The New Beetle and the New Beetle Cabrio are available from 20,475 euro (price advantage: up to 2,830 euro) and 24,550 euro (price advantage: up to 3,175), respectively, while the Jetta is available from 23,375 euro (price advantage: up to 3,325 euro).

Lamborghini Reventon Takes on a Tornado

2007-11-23T22:55:00.000-08:00

Lamborghini Reventon Takes on a Tornado

The Ghedi (Brescia) military airport was the setting this week for an extraordinary acceleration race between a Tornado aircraft [A200-A] provided by the airbase, and the Lamborghini Reventón driven by an official Lamborghini test driver.

The fighter pilot and the Lamborghini test driver challenged each other on the 3000 m-long runway.

The Reventón took the lead in the first leg of the race, but the Tornado caught up in the last few metres, taking off and flying over the Reventón that was going at a speed of over 340 km/h.

The Ghedi military base was chosen as the venue at which to present the Lamborghini super car to international TV networks. The ideal environment in which to emphasise the Reventón’s aeronautic styling, the airbase was made available to Lamborghini by General Carlo Landi of the Fifth Department of the Stato Maggiore dell A.M, and Colonel Aurelio of the Sixth Formation.

The Reventón’s design – entirely designed by the Centro Stile Lamborghini and perfected down to the finest detail in close collaboration with Lamborghini’s R and D management - drew its inspiration from the world’s fastest aircraft in modern aviation. It is from this heritage that the Reventón has drawn its extremely precise, technically impressive style with sharp edges, exact lines and clean surfaces, along with its exclusive new matte grey-green exterior colour.

There are only 20 Reventón cars available, each with a price tag of 1 million euros plus taxes. All are already sold and will be built and delivered in 2008.

The Lamborghini Reventón, officially presented to the public at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, also won the “Most Beautiful Automobile in the World 2007” award this month in the special models category, and is destined to become a new legend in the fascinating history of the House of the Raging Bull.

Logan Renault eco2 Concept Revealed

2007-11-23T06:30:00.000-08:00

Last May saw Renault launch the Renault eco appellation, a hallmark which underpins the firm's pledge to produce a range of vehicles that are both ecological and affordable. Today, Renault takes the wraps off Logan Renault eco2 Concept, the experimental car it will use to contest the forthcoming Michelin-organised Challenge Bibendum in Shanghai, China. In addition to epitomizing the economical motor car, Logan Renault eco2 Concept is ecological, too, and complies with all three of the criteria relating to production, use and recycling required to warrant the Renault eco2 label. And with a CO2 score of just 97g/km, Logan Renault eco2 is particularly efficient on the emissions front.

The Renault eco appellation is an eloquent illustration of Renault's commitment to the production of a range of vehicles that are both ecological and affordable; in other words, vehicles that offer measurable results throughout their lifecycle and which make advanced technologies available to the vast majority of motorists.

To qualify for the Renault eco appellation, vehicles must comply with three criteria:

they must be produced in an ISO 14001-certified factory,
they must emit less than 140g of CO2/km, or else run on biofuel,
they must be 95% end-of-life reusable, while at least five per cent of the plastics they contain must be sourced from recycling.

Today, 40% of the versions that make up the Renault range have already been awarded Renault eco status.

To participate in this year's Michelin-organised Challenge Bibendum (November 14-17), which takes place in Shanghai, China, Renault will be represented by the new Logan Renault eco Concept. In addition to this experimental vehicle's outstanding economical credentials, Logan Renault eco Concept is also ecological and complies with all three of the criteria required to qualify for the Renault eco label. To begin with, Logan Renault eco Concept was made in the Romanian factory of Pitesti which received ISO 14001 certification in 2005. Meanwhile, 8.3 per cent of the plastics it contains come from recycling and 95 per cent of its mass is reusable. Last but not least, a special effort has gone into achieving a level of CO2 emissions performance that takes it under the 100g/km threshold.

Logan Renault eco Concept is powered by a B30-compatible 1.5 dCi engine (63kW/85hp) and benefits from a long list of technical solutions and optimisations that all stand out as avenues of development for future Renault vehicles.

These solutions cover the following areas:

Powertrain: modified pistons and injection system for enhanced combustion, detail work on tolerances and lubrication to minimise friction, new gearbox ratios.
Aerodynamics: the combination of a VORTEX generator (a small, drag-reducing, roof-mounted feature), a flexible splitter under the front bumper, wheel fairings and a rear lip spoiler have enabled the Cd to be cut from the 0.36 of a standard Logan to 0.29.
Running gear: Logan Renault eco Concept is equipped with low rolling resistance Michelin Pure tyres (185/65 R15). The camber and toe settings, as well as the braking system, have also been optimised as part of the across-the-board bid to combat friction.

The work accomplished on these three fronts enables Logan Renault eco Concept to boast record low CO2 emissions of just 97g/km (NEDC combined cycle), equivalent to fuel consumption of 3.8 litres/100km.

The dashboard of Logan Renault eco Concept is also equipped with a gearshift indicator which permits the driver to make an active contribution to the optimization of fuel consumption and reduce CO2 emissions. By taking full advantage of this feature's benefits, it is possible to take Logan Renault eco Concept's CO2 emissions performance below its homologated score of 97g/km.

Logan Renault eco Concept reaffirms Renault's determination to demonstrate that ecology and affordability are perfectly compatible and asserts its conviction that the most effective environmentally-friendly techniques are those that are readily accessible to the vast majority of motorists.

New Renault Kangoo: In Depth

2007-11-23T06:26:00.000-08:00

More practical and comfortable

Renault have today released the successor for the in 1997 launched Kangoo, the new Renault Kangoo. This 4.21 meter long LCV (light commercial vehicle), 18 cm longer than its predecessor, is available for businesses as well as families.

The new Kangoo comes with a choice of three engines, namely a 1.5 liter dCi (producing 70 hp, 85hp, 105hp or 105hp with DPF), a 90 hp 1.6 liter 8-valve engine and the 105 hp 1.6 liter 16-valve engine. Cargo space ranges from 660 liters to 2.8 cm3 with the seats folded down. The 1.5 liter dCi with 70 hp and 85 hp have been awared the Renault Eco2 badge.

The new Kangoo comes in three trim levels, Authentique, Expression and Privilège, where the Privilege trim has a foldable front passenger seat for even more storage space.

We can't really get excited about the new Kangoo here at WCF, but we must appreciate Renault's honesty, 'Reduced investment costs for optimal profitability' is how Renault titles the final pages of the press release.

Read on for further details.

Press Release

On its launch in 1997 Kangoo’s affable, expressive style revolutionised the leisure utility vehicle sector. Roomy and versatile Kangoo has been a success, selling over 2,300,000 units since it was launched. New Kangoo matches family expectations more closely. It draws on Kangoo fundamentals, turning them into an optimised blend of quality, comfort, and practicality.

By keeping engineering costs and reducing investment costs, New Kangoo is priced in a competitive bracket that is comparable to that of Kangoo. New Kangoo is produced in France, in the strongly modernised MCA Maubeuge factory. The first Kangoo was also manufactured on the same site, which is one of the most productive factories in Europe in the LCV segment.

At 4.21 m in length, New Kangoo’s resolutely contemporary, affable, cheery lines exert a strong appeal. Its short, chunky front end frees up space for the bright, airy passenger cabin, which is further enhanced by its steeply-raked MPV-style windscreen. Some versions have pop-open windows, and other others electric ones. All have large doors which open onto a comprehensively reworked interior.

New Kangoo emphasizes well-being and ride comfort. For improved ride pleasure, a number of features have been upgraded. With its outstanding roominess, New Kangoo has put the onus on space and the shared ride experience. It is 18 cm longer than its predecessor and that extra length has been lavished on the cabin, where more volume gives the five occupants more room and more comfort! Resolutely contemporary and featuring a more ergonomic design, the dashboard resembles an MPV’s, while the cabin has been refitted and finished with quality materials. New Kangoo boasts standards of thermal and acoustic comfort worthy of an MPV.

Some versions feature automatic climate control. Air is evenly distributed at both front and rear thanks to the design of the circuit, which has outlets at each passenger’s feet. To ensure acoustic comfort, engineers have used the same techniques as for the rest of the range.

New Kangoo takes an ingenious approach to modularity. With its practical design dedicated to the pursuit of leisure, it brings to the segment a novel touch of ergonomic design, roominess, and user-friendliness. Its 60:40 split-fold rear bench folds down easily in one fell swoop to form a flat load space. On some versions the front passenger seat can fold down in the same way, Payload can thus be boosted from 660 litres to 2.8 m3.

What’s more, in this configuration the vehicle can carry objects that are 2.5m long. New Kangoo’s interior boasts up to 77 litres of stowage space, with for example some handy aircraft-style stowage compartments for the rear passengers. It also debuts innovative longitudinal roof bars that convert into a luggage rack. No tools are needed and the rack can take loads of up to 80kg.

New Kangoo comes complete with a diverse and comprehensive range of reliable powertrain packages to meet the needs of all motorists: two petrol engines and one diesel, and three different outputs. This offering is firmly built on strong values like robustness, reliability, economy, and respect for the environment. The New Kangoo 1.5 dCi 105 (78kW) will offer consumers a diesel engine with particulate filter (76 kW) from launch-day-one. Both other 1.5 dCi powertrains (70hp/50 kW and 85/63kW) fulfil Renault’s eco2 signature, with CO2 emissions lower than 140g/km.

Developed from a C-segment platform that is acknowledged for its dynamic quality, comfort, and safety, New Kangoo offers features hitherto unprecedented in the leisure utility vehicle segment. Its 2.7 m wheelbase lends it sound, balanced, secure handling. Its active and passive safety equipment is identical to that of a family saloon. All versions are equipped with the latest-generation ABS and Emergency Brake Assist and engine torque overrun regulation functions. Some versions feature ESP with understeer control and ASR traction control.

For the safety of its occupants, New Kangoo benefits from state-of-the-art driver assistance systems, most of which originate in the segments above. They include cruise control/speed limiter, automatic headlamp actuation, and wipers with automatic rain sensors, none of which was available on the previous model. New Kangoo also has between two and six airbags, seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, and anti-submarining humps in the front and back seats, as well as three seats with Isofix anchorage points (depending on the version).

1. Family resemblance

Affable and robust, it runs in the family
Ambience for all tastes

2. Well-being and comfort in every seat

A very automotive world
Thermal and acoustic comfort levels unprecedented in the segment

3. Unprecedented modularity

A range of functional interior layouts
Every object has its place

4. High-performance, fuel-efficient engines

1.5 dCi: 70 hp (50kW), 85hp (63kW), 105hp (78kW), and 105hp with particulate filter
105hp (78kW) 1.6 16v
90hp (66kW) 1.6 8v
New Kangoo and the Renault eco2 label

5. Top-class safety and dynamic performance

A dynamic ride
Top-class active safety
Comprehensive protection

6. Reduced investments costs for optimal profitability

New Kangoo: more than a “passenger vehicle”
The same demands were made of the conception, testing and production of New Kangoo as of New Laguna
Development engineering costs and investments costs reduced by 25%
A strongly modernised MCA factory
New Kangoo is central to Renault Commitment 2009

Mercedes C-class Estate by Carlsson

2007-11-23T06:10:00.000-08:00

204, 269 or 295 hp

The new Mercedes C-Class Estate has just been released at the Frankfurt show and before it has even hit dealerships Carlsson is ready with a tuning kit.

Carlsson has a range of tuning modules for the new C-Class, like the C-Tronic CD22 and CD32 to boost the C220 CDI and C320 CDI respectively adding roughly 20% power. The C220 CDI ends up with 204 hp and the CD320 CDI with 269 hp. The range topper will be the 3.5 litre V6 producing 295 hp and is directly based on the Carlsson CK35 performance kit, currently also used in an SLK for long distance racing on the Nurburgring.

Enhancements found on the new estate consists of a front apron, a diffuser-look apron at the rear, side mouldings, rear spoiler, Brilliant Edition 19inch single-piece, 11-spoke wheels, electro-polished grille insert, double-headlight units and luxurious interior.

Press Release

Before its official launch, Carlsson has already devoted considerable attention to the new Mercedes Benz C-class Estate resulting in a new automotive dimension in both visual and dynamic terms. The company achieved these goals through a variety of measures including elegant aerodynamic parts, performance kits, new wheels and improved interior appointments. The result is a vehicle that meets the highest expectations of driving pleasure and active safety. A car with race-track engineering that meets the promise of looks and paper form.

Diesel-Power through Carlsson C-Tronic®

With the new C-Tronic® Diesel POWER generation, Carlsson offers 20 % more power and torque for all Mercedes common-rail diesels from the A to the S Class. Increasing the output via the C-Tronic® Diesel POWER supplementary control unit results in a significant improvement in performance. Consisting of the control unit and a plug-and-drive adapter, which is connected to the standard engine control unit, the C-Tronic® reads all signals from the series control unit needed to determine the optimum values for fuel quantity and the injection point.

Carlsson C-Tronic® CD 22 for C/E 220 CDI engines

The new generation of C-Tronic® performance kits for four-cylinder CDI models of the C and E Classes provide a power increase of 34 bhp. Thus, the engine generates 204 instead of 170 bhp and a torque of 480 instead of 400 Nm. The result is a second off the time for the 0-100 km/h dash and a reduction of no less than seven seconds in the 80 – 180 km/h time.

Carlsson C-Tronic® CD 32 for all 320 CDI engines

The Carlsson C-Tronic® CD 32 has been developed for all Mercedes Benz models fitted with the current basic 320 CDI engine. The increase in power amounts to 42 bhp so that the modified engine produces 269 bhp outpacing easily the standard engine with its 224 bhp. Torque rises to a massive 612 Nm, which is available from 1,600 to 2,300 rpm. No less impressive are the performance figures, which improve by around a second for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h.

To ensure the greatest possible safety for both driver and vehicle, the C-Tronic® Diesel POWER has correction maps that guarantee the engine's reserves are only used when the operating parameters are within the appropriate range. Thus, the coolant temperature is monitored and the additional power only generated when the engine is running at a coolant temperature between 65° and 100° C. The intelligent control system ensures the optimum settings are selected regardless of the operating conditions. Carlsson gives a three-year warranty on the new generation of C-Tronic® supplementary control units.

Greater driving pleasure – with a clear conscience

The environment also benefits from the C-Tronic® Diesel performance kits. Through the intelligent use of modern technology, the C-Tronic® reduces average fuel consumption and in the course of that CO2-emissions by 10 %. At the same time is reduces pollutant emissions, slashing environmentally harmful exhaust gases, such as NOX, by around 10 %.

Naturally, the C-Tronic® meets the special requirements of the particle filter in full and also shows the technological advantage of Carlsson engineering: the C-Tronic® takes account of all important data from the particle-filter system, e.g., exhaust back pressure, exhaust temperature, when generating the increase in power to utilise them in the interests of a cleaner environment.

Race-proven CK35 performance kit

Carlsson has been a successful competitor in the VLN Long Distance Trophy at the Nürburgring for many years. At the world's most demanding race-track for both driver and technology, Carlsson tests parts that are later to be found in its range of parts and accessories. The company currently uses the CK35 performance kit based on the 3.5 litre V6 for long-distance racing in an SLK. In other words, every Carlsson CK 35 customer participates in Carlsson's racing success. "The concept of taking developments 'from the race track to the highway' applies to the CK35 more than any other engine", says CEO Markus Schuster proudly explaining how this piece of high-tech engineering has been breathed on to ensure durability and great efficiency.

Developed in motor racing for absolute reliability and superior performance, the CK35 kits give customers the assurance that they, too, could win races with this engine. The Carlsson unit produces 217 kW / 295 bhp and presses maximum torque of 385 Nm onto the crankshaft.

Also part of the CK35 kit, the stainless-steel sports rear silencer with four oval tailpipes hints clearly but not too loudly at the increased engine output. Carlsson also modifies and significantly improves the engine's electronic control system while a sports air filter ensures that the V6 has no trouble in taking a deep breath.

The increased output coupled with effortless power delivery result not only in a better paper form but also significantly improved flexibility and, therefore, greater driving pleasure. The top speed of the CK35 is 270 km/h. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h takes just six seconds, four tenths faster than the standard car. At the same time, the sound emitted from the four tail pipes is certain to set the pulse of every racing enthusiast.

Carlsson aerodynamic kit: the dynamic and striking alternative

Without making the car look flashy, Carlsson fits an aerodynamic kit that not only reduces lift at the same time as making the car more elegant and powerful looking but also lends an individual touch and, of course, the sporting flair so typical of Carlsson. The aerodynamic kit consists of a front apron, a diffuser-look apron at the rear, side mouldings and a rear spoiler that stabilises the car at higher speeds. In this connection, too, Carlsson underscores its close association with motor racing. All parts are made of high-grade PUR and, in addition to fitting exactly, distinguished by top surface quality. The kit also includes an electro-polished grille insert and double-headlight units with fog and driving lights for improved light output and, therefore, greater safety. These parts are also available separately for fitment in combination with the standard bumper.

Suspension components for optimum road-holding and a more dynamic look

In common with all suspension components, the sports springs used to lower the car also are derived from motor racing. Their racing equivalents have been well proven in thousands of kilometres around the Nürburgring race track. For Carlsson customers, they not only offer significantly improved handling but also give the car a more dynamic look.

B for Brilliant Edition - exclusive wheels from Carlsson

Wheels are the easiest and most expressive way of giving a car a personal touch. If they should also combine high technological qualities with sporting elegance, then Carlsson 1/11 Brilliant Edition wheels are the obvious choice. The front wheels measure 8.5x19" and are fitted with 225/35 ZR19 Dunlop SP Sport Maxx tyres while the rear wheels come in the dimension 10x19" and 255/30 tyres. These single-piece, 11-spoke wheels are characterised by an exclusive surface finish unparalleled in the Mercedes Benz tuning sector. The polished brilliant silver rim base and the painted brilliant silver centre, which makes the wheel virtually unmatched in visual terms, form an interesting contrast.

Unadulterated luxury inside

For the interior of the C-class, Carlsson uses on the very best materials that turn it into a small S Class. The very attractive yet restrained components, which can be combined in accordance with customer wishes, make sitting in the car a great pleasure. With the ergonomically designed Carlsson sports steering wheel in leather / Alcantara or leather / wood, the driver always has a firm and extremely pleasant grip on the car.

Land Rover Defender SVX Special Edition

2007-11-23T01:03:00.000-08:00

60^th Anniversary

At last nights British Red Cross Ball in London, Zara Phillips unveiled the Land Rover Defender SVX Special Edition. The Defender SVX commemorates the 60^th anniversary of the iconic off-roader and the first SVX has been donated to the Red Cross for auctioning.

“Funds raised from auctioning this vehicle will go towards the work of the Red Cross in the UK and overseas, which this year has included the UK floods, Darfur Crisis and ongoing HIV work in Africa." said James Johnstone, chairman for the British Red Cross Ball.

The Land Rover Defender SVX comes in metallic black with subtle satin black decals and is available in both 90 soft-top and 90 station wagon versions. The exterior is touched up with silver finishes, clear lens headlights, new surround on the front grille, tubular side-steps, 'diamond turned' five spoke alloy wheels, reinforced aluminium front udnershield, LED rear lights and of course custom badges.

Inside the special edition is adorned with Recaro sport seats, alloy gear knobs, sat nav, iPod cradle, fancy audio system and the soft-top comes with a metallic silver tubular cage that supports a tailor-made, removable black fabric hood.

200 units will be made (140 Defender 90 soft-tops and 60 90 station wagons) and each one will have a numbered plaque with production starting in the spring of 2008. "The Defender SVX looks very different to a spartan 1948 Land Rover, but it's still an essentially practical vehicle that will enable you to go almost anywhere," says Phil Popham, Land Rover's managing director.

2008 Barrett-Jackson Shelby GT Revealed In Arizona

2007-11-23T00:59:00.000-08:00

Introduced this week at the Arizona International Auto Show is a new limited edition Shelby GT, co-designed by Shelby, Ford, and auction house Barrett-Jackson. The 2008 Barrett-Jackson Shelby GT will be limited to 100 units, including both coupe and convertible models.

Included is Ford's racing package with 319 horsepower and 330 ft-lb of torque. Paired with that is a five-speed manual with a Hurst short-throw shifter. An automatic transmissions is available.

The specialized limited edition comes in a black exterior, with "Barrett-Jackson" red stripes across the sides and the LeMans hood, and with black, 18-inch wheels. There are several pieces of Shelby and Barrett-Jackson badges around the car as well. Barrett-Jackson is one of the top auction houses for specialty and collector cars.

Only Ford dealers in Arizona will be selling the car, with a base price of $38,980. Of that, $250 goes to the Carroll Shelby Children's Foundation.

Press Release

EXCLUSIVE 2008 BARRETT-JACKSON SHELBY GT UNVEILED IN ARIZONA

2008 Barrett-Jackson Shelby GT production is scheduled for 100 total units
Black exterior with "Barrett-Jackson" red stripes and other touches included
Cars will be sold through Arizona Ford dealers
A portion of proceeds from sales to benefit the Carroll Shelby Children's Foundation.

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., November 21, 2007 - Three American automotive icons, Ford Motor Company, the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company and Shelby Automobiles, have collaborated to create collector car history with a limited edition 2008 Mustang Shelby GT. The companies today unveiled the 2008 Barrett-Jackson Shelby GT based on the Ford Mustang at the Arizona International Auto Show.

With an MSRP beginning at US$38,980.00, a total of 100 2008 Barrett-Jackson Shelby GTs, in both coupe and convertible body styles, will be sold through Arizona Region Ford dealers beginning today. The purchase price of each car will include a $250 donation to the Carroll Shelby Children's Foundation.

"The Arizona and Las Vegas Ford dealers have been strong supporters of mine over the years, which is why Shelby Automobiles joined with Barrett-Jackson and Ford Motor Company to create a limited edition car just for their customers," said Carroll Shelby, CEO of Shelby Automobiles. "And I'm pleased that a portion of the sales will benefit an endowment we're building at the Carroll Shelby Children's Foundation. This is a rare chance for enthusiasts to enjoy a very special car and support a great cause."

Ford is a strong supporter of Barrett-Jackson and has sponsored its Family Value Day that kicks off the automotive lifestyle week in Scottsdale. Family Value Day was designed to attract a new generation of car enthusiasts by offering discounted tickets for adults and admitting children under the age of 12 for free.

"Barrett-Jackson's unrivaled lifestyle events celebrate America's love of the automobile," said Ford Motor Company Phoenix Regional Sales Manager, Tim Stoehr. "Their passion for the automobile has resulted in a unique venue to share our vehicles with the public. This limited edition car symbolizes our high octane relationship and gives a few lucky people the chance to own a piece of the Barrett-Jackson experience."

Over the past 37 years, Barrett-Jackson has evolved from an auction primarily attended by dedicated collectors and dealers into a retail automotive lifestyle event that is broadcast live worldwide. Shelby Cobras, GT350s and GT500s have been among the most popular cars to cross the auction block.

"We have a long tradition of selling the best Shelbys in the world because they are among the most desirable cars ever built," said Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company. "Over the past several years, we've worked with Ford Motor Company to raise almost a million and a half dollars for Carroll's Foundation by offering new Shelby cars for sale. It was natural to celebrate our connection to these cars with a very limited edition Shelby."

From the black 18-inch wheels to the Shelby Cobra roadster hood scoop, the car is mean. The engine is upgraded with a Ford Racing package to pump out 319 horsepower and 330 lb.-ft. of torque through a high-flow exhaust system with X-pipe crossover. The Shelby GT comes standard with a five-speed manual transmission featuring a Hurst short-throw shifter; a five-speed automatic transmission is optional. The package includes a Ford Racing Handling Pack with special-tuned dampers, unique sway bars and a 3.55:1 ratio rear axle assembly. Overall ride height was dropped and a front strut-tower brace added.

"The Shelby GT was designed to deliver an exhilarating driving experience," said Amy Boylan, President of Shelby Automobiles. "In addition to the 'go faster goodies,' each will receive special badges and equipment, as well as a photo of one of these cars signed by Carroll."

Unique features of the Barrett-Jackson edition will include:

Black exterior with "Barrett-Jackson Red" LeMans Hood and Side Stripes
Barrett Jackson Edition Door Sill Plates
Black interior with the Shelby GT serial number plate
Special Gas Cap Insert
Autographed photo of Carroll Shelby, Craig Jackson, Amy Boylan and Steve Davis

"As someone who has been personally involved with Shelby cars for the past three decades, I'm very proud to be part of this limited edition car," noted Steve Davis, President of Barrett-Jackson. "Rarity and documentation are two of the keys to collectability, which is why only 100 Barrett-Jackson Shelby GTs are scheduled to be built. Each car will come with complete documentation and be included in the factory authorized registry."

The Barrett-Jackson Shelby GT will be displayed at the Arizona International Auto Show from November 22-25.

Jaguar C-XF Concept

2007-11-23T00:48:00.000-08:00

New Design Direction for Future Sport Sedans

The all-new Jaguar C-XF concept car, a stunning four-door sedan that blends dynamic, modern features with classic, heritage cues, will make its debut at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Mich. This concept, which boasts a 4.2-liter supercharged V8 engine, signifies a new era for the company and is a clear indication of the design direction for the company’s next-generation of sport sedans.

Headed by Jaguar Director of Design Ian Callum and Head of Advanced Design Julian Thomson, the concept was designed by the same team that produced the award-winning 2007 Jaguar XK Coupe and Convertible. The team looked to create a vehicle that presents a confident statement of design purity. In doing so, the C-XF possesses a sense of latent power through a look that is dynamic and athletic.

“The Jaguar C-XF concept is the most dynamic and modern four-door car that Jaguar has ever created, a design showcase heralding the next generations of our sports saloon models,” says Ian Callum. “It signals a future for Jaguar that is as exciting as the C-XF itself.”

The concept sedan features single, slim-wedged headlamps which have evolved from the twin-lamp motif seen on past Jaguars. The lights are thin and angular, producing an aggressive look for the car’s front profile. Running from the headlamps to the rear wheel haunch is an unbroken, main feature line that gives the car a sense of power and movement. Furthering the vehicles aggressive appearance are the muscular bonnet, side power vents, tapered tail and deeply recessed front grille.

The vehicle’s modern, sports design philosophy is applied to the cabin as well, with the emphasis tailored toward performance as opposed to luxury. Inside are lightweight, sculpted bucket-style front seats and twin individual rear bucket seats. Running in between the seats is a tall, central transmission tunnel that gives the occupants a sense of sitting deep within a futuristic cockpit. In addition, a brushed aluminum fascia wraps around the cabin, producing a dynamic linear graphic that instills a sense of velocity. Design Director Ian Callum describes the cabin of the all-new C-XF concept car as “one of the most exciting interiors Jaguar has ever done.”

Enhancing the cabin experience is the introduction of the vehicle’s new technologies that blend simplicity of design with practical innovation. JaguarSense, a prototype technology which employs motion detecting sensors to activate certain vehicle features, reacts to the sweep of a hand, making it advance yet intuitive. Also, the C-XF has a jewel-like Power button that pulses like a heartbeat on the center console and once pushed, aluminum rings lower from the center console to reveal the gear shift knob. As the engine starts, a blue light sweeps around the cabin, the entire roofline illuminates with a muted blue light and a final blue light shines from the front grille, signifying the car’s ignition.

The C-XF is not just another concept car – it is much more than that. Its dynamic styling and modern design offer a glimpse to the future for Jaguar. The exterior is pure and athletic, the interior striking and contemporary while the technology innovative and practical. The C-XF is the new direction of Jaguar design.

From its beginning as a manufacturer of motorcycle sidecars in 1922, Jaguar Cars has grown to become one of the world’s premier manufacturers of luxury sedans and sports cars and with that, one of the most recognized commercial brands. The company's vision is simple: To produce beautiful fast cars that are desired the world over. The company operates two manufacturing plants in the United Kingdom and is fully engaged in environmental programs, community work and brand awareness exercises such as motorsports.

INTRODUCTION

"Great Jaguars turn heads in the street. They make people stop and pay attention. They evoke instant desire. That’s what the C-XF does and that’s what the next generation of Jaguars will do.”
Ian Callum, Director of Design, Jaguar Cars

The C-XF concept car signals the onset of a new era for Jaguar. A stunning, four-door sports saloon which blends design purity with unmistakable dynamism, the C-XF is a clear indication of the design direction that the next generations of Jaguar saloons will take.

Designed by the same teams that produced the award-winning Jaguar XK sports GT range in 2005 – headed by Jaguar Director of Design Ian Callum and Head of Advanced Design Julian Thomson – the C-XF concept is a precursor to cars that will become recognised for their ground-breaking exterior looks and innovative interiors.

As a striking interpretation of the design values that are the bedrock of every great Jaguar, the C-XF is wholly contemporary yet succeeds in paying homage to its renowned predecessors.

“The C-XF – and the future generations of sports saloons it signals – reaffirms the direction Jaguar is taking,” says Bibiana Boerio, Managing Director of Jaguar Cars. “When we launched the new XK sports car series, we talked about a product-led transformation of the company. We promised that new Jaguars would be beautiful, fast, glamorous and evocative. The new XK delivered on that promise and the C-XF proves that these same values and more are coming in Jaguar saloon cars.”

JAGUAR C-XF SUMMARY

The C-XF is not just another concept car – it is much more than that.

The exterior design is pure, athletic and, of course, beautiful.
The striking interior design uses traditional materials, but fashioned in new and contemporary ways.

The four-seat cabin – sufficiently spacious but not a bland, featureless expanse – is a welcoming, rewarding place to be.

The technologies and innovations are typical of the features on a Jaguar – and preview others that are still under development.

The powertrain – a supercharged V8 of proven excellence and a sophisticated six-speed automatic that delivers lightning-quick manual gearchanges thanks to the Jaguar Sequential Shift System – is perfectly suited to a true sports saloon.

The sum of the C-XF parts is impressive enough, but the whole – an exciting, modern, dynamic sports saloon that evokes absolute desire – is an extraordinary preview of the Jaguars of tomorrow.

“The Jaguar C-XF concept is the most dynamic and modern four-door car that Jaguar has ever created, a design showcase heralding the next generations of our sports saloon models. It signals a future for Jaguar that is as exciting as the C-XF itself.”
Ian Callum, Design Director, Jaguar Cars

DESIGN PHILOSOPHY

“One thing should be abundantly clear whenever people are discussing Jaguar design,” asserts Director of Design Ian Callum. “Jaguars should be seen as modern cars and in the future people will appreciate them for that.”

The C-XF is a confident statement of design purity and efficiency. It possesses a sense of latent power that conveys dynamism and movement even when the car is stationary. But the design language of C-XF is about more than just performance and power – it also succeeds in blending many of Jaguar’s unique heritage styling cues with bold, contemporary features, signalling how Jaguars will evolve as new generations of sports saloons go into production.

“Throughout its history Jaguar has created some of the most striking, modern and beautiful sports saloons imaginable and our objective with C-XF was to recognise those principle design disciplines,” explains Ian Callum. “The values that I see in Jaguar aesthetics include purity, dynamism, latent power, balance and modernity.”

Those Jaguar values are instantly recognisable in earlier iconic models. Founder Sir William Lyons demanded the same aesthetic correctness and every one of his legendary designs proved his skill in creating some of the most beautiful cars of all time.

The C-XF’s design team took inspiration from some of Lyons’ greatest cars, including the 1950 Mark VII and 1959 Mark 2 saloons. Their beautiful flowing lines were influenced by some of the great sporting Jaguars of the era including the XK120 and both display that extraordinary feeling of latent power that so signifies a Jaguar.

Ensuring that C-XF, while still a saloon, possessed the sporting profile expected of every Jaguar required maximum design efficiency – the whole exterior ‘skin’ had to be as tight as possible to the body architecture. This focussed the Jaguar design team on creating a car that Ian Callum describes as “the absolute definition of athleticism”, a performance-oriented sports saloon that is still inherently practical and capable of carrying four people in total comfort.

C-XF has a taut beauty, but it is also a car that will challenge people’s preconceptions about Jaguar; it has an edginess that exudes a sense of underlying menace.

“Jaguars should be perceived as cool cars,” says Ian Callum, “and cool cars attract interesting, edgy people. The next generations of Jaguars will do just that.”

The new Jaguar XF

2007-11-23T00:40:00.000-08:00

The new Jaguar XF, which fuses the style and performance of a sports car with the refinement, space and sophistication of a luxury saloon, has a generous array of equipment across the range. There are three levels of specification:

Luxury

The ‘Luxury’ specification is the starting point for XF ownership and is available to order with the 2.7-litre diesel or the 3.0-litre petrol engines. Highlights include 8x8 way adjustable leather trimmed seats, 7” colour Touch-screen display, Navigation system, Bluetooth® Telephone Connectivity, 6-disc in-dash CD changer, Rear parking aid, interior mood lighting, heated exterior mirrors with electric adjustment, 17” alloy wheels, Automatic Climate Control and Cruise Control with Automatic Speed Limiter.

Premium Luxury

If customers choose to move up a level they can choose the ‘Premium Luxury’ specification for an increment of £3,600 with both the 2.7-litre diesel and the 3.0-litre V6 petrol engines. The 4.2-litre V8 petrol (n/a) also comes with ‘Premium Luxury’ specification offering, in addition to the Luxury model’s standard features, highlights such as 10x10 way heated Softgrain leather seats with lumbar adjust, 18” alloy wheels, Jaguar 320W premium sound system with 8 speakers and sub-woofer, driver's seat memory function, heated windscreen and Softgrain leather stitched and tailored instrument panel and door top rolls.

SV8

The SV8 specification is available on the 4.2-litre supercharged model only and customers can enjoy additional features such as active heated and cooled front seats, 20” alloy wheels, Bi-Xenon headlamps with automatic levelling and headlamp washers and CATS (Computer Active Technology Suspension).

Speculations: First Sighting of New Maybach

2007-11-23T00:10:00.000-08:00

More individuality

Don't be afraid, this Frankensteinian look on the Mercedes S Class is purely for testing purposes. But testing for what? We reckon that Daimler AG is running preliminary tests on the streets of Stuttgart for a new Maybach.

Maybach has never performed as well as Daimler had hoped, selling just 32 vehicles in Germany in 2006, but the German manufacturer has not given up hope on the ultra-luxury brand just yet.

Recently a special, officially one-off but rumoured to be a limited edition, Landaulet version of the Maybach 57 was shown at the Middle East Motor Show in Dubai. And only last week Brabus catapulted the 57 around Nardo to set the ultra-luxury class speed record at 330,6 km/h.

The current line-up of Maybach are all based on the Mercedes S Class, but with this new addition Maybach is set to receive a more individual design to distinguish itself more from th 'regular' luxury of the Mercedes brand.

The ultra-luxury market has been flailing (direct competitors like the VW Phaeton and Rolls-Royce Phantom are no big sellers either) except for the Bentley GT and Flying Spur have booked success. And it is those customers that Maybach, just like Rolls-Royce, will be targeting with a new model.

Lorinser Catapults Exclusive 660 PS Mercedes SL to 325 kph

2007-11-23T00:07:00.000-08:00

The South Italian ring in Nardo is a track made legendary by the cars that have conquered it. And joining their ranks will be a Lorinser-tuned limited-run special edition version dubbed "Nardo3" of the Mercedes SL. In a bracket reserved for supercars, the exclusive SL was measured independently at 325 kph. But the Nardo3 SL is not simply a car built for straight-line performance - it is 'a racing car for the road' which brings ambience as much to the forefront of the concept as it does racing-bred performance thrills.

Based on the V12 biturbo-powered SL65 AMG, the car produces 660 PS / 485 kW and maximum torque of 1013 Nm - on a par with a medium-sized truck. And it is styled to impress too. Typical racing car reminiscent styling cues feature, with aggressive front and rear aprons being the most noticeable new additions. The side profile is characterised by widened fenders and gaping air intakes on the flanks. And with most road users only ever set to catch a glimpse of the rear, a visually appealing acoustic exhaust system is fitted, while special treatment is paid to the rear skirt with the integrated double pipes.

Inside, a comfortable atmosphere greets the driver, a sense of luxury and sportiness combined in an elaborate Alcantara interior that echoes the fusion of sports and luxury car at every turn. This is a car where exclusivity is truly meant, with the treatment set only to be reserved for 50 units.

Rolls-Royce Coupe

2007-11-21T22:01:00.000-08:00

In soft-top disguise

We fully appreciate the intelligence of BMW and Rolls-Royce engineers, but they can't fool us. See, this is not the Rolls-Royce Drophead Coupe but actually the all new Rolls-Royce Coupé.

Rolls-Royce has done well to disguise their newest addition to the range by making it look like an outgoing model. But the gas cap in the B-pillar is quite a give-away that this is not a soft-top but indeed a car with a solid metal roof.

The new coupe focusses on powerful driving, instead of 'cruising down the boulevard' like the Drophead Coupe did, and follows the trend of car manufacturers branching out. The new coupe will have some stiff competition from the Bentley Brooklands and Continental GT. Truth be told, the Bentley's have the Rolls beat on looks alone, but R-R prestige has its own appeal.

Expect the 101EX Concept to make a triumphant return to Geneva next spring two years after its debut, but this time as a production model.

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aunch coincides with 40th anniversary

Press Release

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Hyundai Genesis Spied Uncovered

Zap Zebra Approved for UK Roads

Free passes for London

Corvette ZR1 LS9 Engine Photos Leaked

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Supercharging: a turbocharger for each bank of cylinders

Cooling effect: two intercoolers to reduce the temperature of the air

Design: the best of both worlds

Amply sized interior plus innovative operating concept

Low-emission TDI engines for the USA: Green power

Strict LEVII standard in California

Audi is a driving force behind the advancement of diesel engines

Higher fuel prices, improved diesel infrastructure

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TDI engines are full of power

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Transfer between motorsport and series production

Audi RS Models to Arrive Sooner as Production Increases

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Four new architectures

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More dynamic than ever: the quattro driveline

Technical area of the future: multimedia

Audi TT New LED Daytime Running Lights Uncovered

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Koenigsegg CCGT and CCXR Revealed

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Koenigsegg CC

koenigsegg ccr

Maybach Landaulet

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Competent off-road, Confident on the road

An extravagant appearance

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Pagani Zonda R

Production Ford Kuga Spied

Ford iosis X Concept

Ford Kuga Concept

40th Anniversary Lotus Elise S Announced

2008 Saturn Astra in Detail

GM Product Schedule Released

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Genetically modify your Corsa

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Vauxhall VXR8: In Detail

Introduction

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Opel GTC Concept

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aunch coincides with 40^th anniversary

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60^th Anniversary