• 315-Horsepower Crossover with WRX STI Engine, 6-Speed Transmission
  
• DCCD All-Wheel Drive and Brembo Brakes from WRX STI
  
• Adjustable Coil-Over Suspension
  
• Custom Bodywork and Paint

CHERRY HILL, NJ : October 31, 2008 - Subaru of America today revealed the Forester XTI Concept. It will be unveiled to the public at the 2008 Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association (SEMA) Show, which runs at the Las Vegas Convention Center Nov. 4-7. The Forester XTI Concept combines the versatility of the all-new Forester 2.5XT with the all-out street performance of the rally-bred Impreza(R) WRX STI.


All new for 2009, the Forester was named MOTOR TREND magazine's SUV of the Year. The magazine applauded the new Forester's combination of performance, utility, comfort, safety technology and value in giving it the award. MOTOR TREND editor Angus MacKenzie, citing the judges' unanimous decision, said, "The Subaru Forester is the SUV for our times." The new Forester XTI Concept is an SUV for 0-60 times, estimated to hit the mark in less than 5 seconds.

Practically Wicked
Can a vehicle be both wicked and practical? The Subaru Forester XTI answers with a roomy interior and a lot of turbo boost. The Forester XTI ultra-performance CUV inherits the full STI treatment, with parts developed by Subaru Tecnica International (STI), the high-performance and motorsports subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd.

The "Wicked" portion starts with the styling, which is set off by a custom Atmospheric "Re-Entry" paint scheme. The front lower spoiler and Sport Mesh Grille are from the Subaru Genuine Accessory catalog and are joined by a JDM body kit, including side skirts, a rear skirt and a gate spoiler.

Designed and built by Subaru of America technicians, the crew installed the engine and entire drivetrain from the Impreza WRX STI. In the Forester XTI, a custom stainless steel cat-back exhaust system from the Subaru Performance Tuning (SPT) catalog helps to raise output of the 2.5-liter intercooled turbo engine to 315 hp (from 305 stock) and 300 lb.-ft. of torque (from 290 lb.-ft. stock). As in the WRX STI, power flows through a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission and the Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) version of Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. The DCCD system offers three selectable automatic performance modes in addition to six manual center differential-locking settings.

The 18 x 8-in. S204 forged alloy wheels are by STI and are wrapped in Yokohama Advan Neova 255/40R18 performance tires. The Forester XTI also features an adjustable coil-over suspension by STI. The powerful Brembo brakes come right from the stock WRX STI, with 4-piston front calipers, 2-piston rear calipers, Super Sport ABS and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). Inside, the Forester XTI features leather and Alcantara sport seats, a special instrument cluster, front dash and center console and leather-wrapped steering wheel.

[Source : SUBARU]
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• Designed as an over-the-top First Responder Vehicle for Ski Areas
  
• All-New Forester Named MOTOR TREND SUV of the Year for 2009

CHERRY HILL, NJ : October 30, 2008 - Subaru of America, Inc. today revealed the Mountain Rescue Forester® Vehicle, built for the National Ski Patrol (NSP). It will debut at the 2008 Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association (SEMA) Show that runs at the Las Vegas Convention Center Nov. 4-7. Working with Subaru of America, Detroit-based Specialized Vehicles built the Mountain Rescue Forester Concept as the ultimate first responder vehicle, bolstering its trail-driving capability and equipping it with essential Ski Patrol rescue gear.


Based on the 2009 MOTOR TREND SUV of the Year Subaru Forester 2.5XT turbo crossover utility vehicle, the Forester Mountain Rescue Vehicle is designed to help Ski Patrol crews conduct rescues in difficult terrain and weather conditions. The men and women of Ski Patrol risk their lives in the mountains, fighting avalanches, performing daring rescues and keeping unruly skiers and snowboarders from endangering others on the slopes.

Ready for Rescue Missions
Subaru and skiing have gone together since 1974, when skiers first discovered the all-weather traction of Subaru models with 4-wheel drive. In stock form, the 2009 Forester 2.5XT combines Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with 8.9 inches of ground clearance, more than other crossover SUVs, which are typically in the 6.5-7 in. range. The Forester Mountain Rescue Concept delivers more than 14 in. of ground clearance through an Air Lift custom adjustable ride height air suspension system. Added off-road and snow traction is provided by Yokohama Geolandar MTS 30 x 9.5-in. tires on special 15-in. Subaru custom-reversed near-zero offset steel wheels.

For extra protection on the trails, the Forester Mountain Rescue Concept is equipped with custom front and rear skid plates by DeeZee and custom Trail Armor by Bushwacker, including fender flares, lower door cladding, a rear gate guard and tail light guards. Skiers won’t have trouble seeing the Forester Mountain Rescue Vehicle coming: an emergency light package, augmented by Subaru Genuine Accessory Baja Sport Activity Lights, ensures visibility from a distance and in all types of weather.

To illuminate a rescue site, the vehicle is equipped with roof mounted Visi Light LED spotlights – five in front and two in the rear – by Hamsar Diversco. Topping off the concept vehicle’s distinctive styling, a DeeZee custom grille guard helps protect the Sport Mesh Grille from Subaru Genuine Accessories.

Once on the rescue site, the Ski Patrol crew can use an Ultimate Performance 9.5i Thermometric 9,500-lb. winch by WARN. Remote rear door openers and external quick-access utility compartments play a vital role when time is of the essence. Extra wide round crossbars help secure the Subaru Yakima ski carriers, which on this vehicle hold Nordica snow skis. A rescue toboggan from Cascade rounds out the rescue equipment.

Subaru is proud to be the official vehicle of the NSP, a nonprofit organization headquartered in Lakewood, Colorado and dedicated to serving the public and the ski industry by providing education on emergency care and safety. Subaru has been the Official Vehicle of the NSP for many years and for good reason – Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, robust construction and durability make any Subaru ideally suited to tough winter conditions.

[Source : SUBARU - Image courtesy of Newscom]
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HIROSHIMA : October 31, 2008 - Mazda Motor Corporation will display the Mazda MX-5 (known as the Mazda Roadster in Japan) at the “Japan Car” exhibitions to be held in London and Paris during November 2008.


Intended to showcase Japanese culture and innovative Japanese design and technology to Europe, the exhibitions will focus on Japanese car design. Seven automobile manufacturers and several famous artists will contribute to the display, which will include 14 vehicles. The exhibitions will explore the concept of the vehicle in terms of “size,” “the environment” and its role as a “mobile urban cell.”

First launched in 1989, the Mazda MX-5 design features elements with a sense of harmonious beauty that has universal appeal. This was achieved on the first generation MX-5 by incorporating a traditional Japanese sense of beauty through a Noh mask design motif. This design has helped to boost the MX-5’s popularity all over the world; it currently holds the Guinness World Record for the world’s highest production two-seat open top sports car, with over 800,000 units built. From the first to the current third generation model, 854,554 units have been produced as of September 2008, demonstrating the global popularity of this iconic sports car.

The Mazda MX-5 is a lightweight modern sports car that offers maximum driving pleasure with eco-friendly features and the latest in safety technologies, developed under Mazda’s technology vision, Sustainable Zoom-Zoom.

Opening first in Paris at the “Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie,” the exhibition will run from November 1 through November 9, 2008, at which time it will move to the Science Museum in London for the period November 29, 2008 to April 19, 2009.

[Source : MAZDA]
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Shipments to Mideast, S. America Part of Optimizing Global Supply System


TOKYO : October 31, 2008 - TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announced today that it plans to export the "Sequoia" SUV made at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana, Inc. to the Middle East and South America, and the "Tundra" pickup truck made at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas, Inc. to South America.


The planned exports, scheduled to start in December 2008 and to be conducted through Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A, Inc., are part of an ongoing TMC effort to optimize global production and supply structures to allow TMC to better respond to changes in market demand; they also reflect increasing demand for full-size SUVs in the Middle East and South America and for full-size pickup trucks in South America.

Annually, TMC will export to the Middle East approximately 15,000 units of the Sequoia, and to South America, approximately 150 units of the Sequoia and approximately 1,000 units of the Tundra.

Holding a long-term view, TMC plans—by uniting research and development, procurement, production and sales functions to more-flexibly meet changes in demand—to establish a stable global supply system based on strengthened production and supply structures.

[Source : TOYOTA]
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WOLFSBURG : October 30, 2008 – Volkswagen AG hasn’t raced in its first Baja 1000 yet, but it already is promising to do better the next time around.


Motorsports Director Kris Nissen is realistic about the auto maker’s chances in its first go-around at the Baja 1000 race next month but vows 2009 will be a different story.

VW will unveil its specially built Touareg TDI Baja racer at the Los Angeles auto show Nov. 19 before heading off for the Nov. 20-23 event, which starts and finishes in Ensenada, Mexico.

The racecar is powered by the same 5.5L V-12 turbodiesel used in the Audi R10 Le Mans racecar. It generates 550 hp and 627 lb.-ft. (850 Nm) of torque in the 4,850 -lb. (2,200-kg) Touareg.

“We don’t expect to win the first race,” Nissen says here at a media backgrounder on VW’s expansive racing program. “It’s a new vehicle, with rear-wheel drive; a heavier vehicle.

“We’ll do our best to finish the race, then work hard in the winter – and I promise we’ll be a winner in 2009. Our goal is to go to the 2009 Baja 1000 next November and have a good feeling we can win the race.”

Although it is outspent on racing by sister Audi AG, Nissen says he believes VW has built over the past four decades the auto industry’s most expansive racing program.

In addition to this year’s entry in the Baja 1000, VW races in the Dakar Rally Series, 24-Hours of Nurburgring, the Formula 3 Euro Series and the Formula ADAC Masters.

It also operates its own racing circuits, such as the Polo Cup in Germany and Jetta TDI Cup in the U.S., in eight countries worldwide and is looking to continue expanding into new markets.

“Our goal is to have national cups in as many countries as possible,” Nissen says. “Our goal is to add one new country a year.”

The Cup programs give young drivers a chance to race VW-provided vehicles at relatively low investment costs.

In the U.S., for example, racers pay $35,000 per season, with VW providing the track-prepped Jetta TDI sedans, maintenance and training. Drivers are responsible only for their helmets and travel expenses. The season’s winner gets $100,000, but that is hiked to $150,000 if he is signed to a professional contract within six months of the final race.

Next year’s Jetta TDI Cup already has drawn interest from more than 1,000 potential drivers, and VW has yet to officially solicit applications. The eventual list will be culled to 100 who will be invited to a Sonoma, CA, track to select the circuit’s 30 drivers. These will be judged not only on their driving abilities but also for their media-friendly skills and how well they would handle other off-track duties.

For now, VW is getting ready for the Dakar Rally, which Nissen says is the auto maker’s No.1 racing program. Slated for Jan. 3-18, the 5,600-mile (9,000-km) race starts and ends in Buenos Aires, Argentina, with about 90% of it run over sandy terrain and under the most extreme conditions.

VW is entering the race with the Touareg 2, powered by a 5-cyl. turbodiesel generating 280 hp and 443 lb.-ft. (600 Nm) of torque. It features a 5-speed manual transmission and permanent 4-wheel drive.

Two similar Touaregs competed in VW’s first foray in Baja in 2007, finishing a surprising 11th and 16th overall in the 500-mile (805-km) Baja 500.

Weighing in at 3,942 lbs. (1,788 kg), the Dakar-bound Touareg 2 can hit 62 mph (100 km/h) from a standstill in 6.9 seconds and has a maximum speed of 118 mph (190 km/h).

“This is the hardest race on people and technology,” Nissen says. “It’s absolutely incredible.”

Participating gives VW the chance to prove its mettle in front of some 600 million people who watch the race worldwide, he says.

[Source : Volkswagen via WardsAuto]
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BEIJING : October 30, 2008 - As part of the strategy to further expand its global business activities, Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. will found a branch in China. Following a recent decision by the Board of Management, the Italian luxury sportscar manufacturer will establish Automobili Lamborghini China in the country´s capital city Beijing and will start operations at the beginning of 2009.


Lamborghini´s rise to become one of the most successful and profitable super sportscar manufacturers is the result of a clear dual strategy. First, the creation of an incomparable new, broad and attractive product portfolio. Second and equally important, the ongoing expansion of brand representation to ensure substantial presence in all major markets of the world.

The President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A., Stephan Winkelmann, points out the strategic rationale of the move: “China has the strongest dynamics of change to undoubtedly become the leading economy in the world. As one of the symbols of European luxury tradition, our products and our brand promise are irrevocably moving into the focus of a growing number of people. The development of wealth and the developing ‘savoir-vivre’ in China makes it one of the pivotal markets for Lamborghini’s future growth. The decision to establish a branch in China illustrates our dedication to opening the potential of this market for Lamborghini. Our new regional office will ensure the presence of the brand and further the prosperity of the corporation on a global scale.”

In 2008 Automobili Lamborghini expects a growth of car sales in China by 186% ( 28 cars in 2007 toward 80 in 2008). The market for luxury products is characterized by stable and solid growth and by a wide presence in practically all major economic metropolis throughout the country. At the time being, Automobili Lamborghini has three dealers located in Shanghai, Guangzhou, Beijing, one in Hong Kong, and another two will be shortly be opened in Chengdu and Qingdao. More are to be established.

Lamborghini is focused on establishing a roughly equal split of worldwide sales between the three major continental regions: Northern America, Europe and Asia.

Stephan Winkelmann has appointed Eginardo Bertoli as Country Manager of Automobili Lamborghini China. Mr Bertoli will report directly to Enrico Maffeo, Director of Sales and Customer Service worldwide, who is based at the Lamborghini headquarters in Italy. Mr. Bertoli has a strong background in the automotive industry, having worked for a range of international companies such as Fiat Powertrain Technologies, Kongsberg Automotive and Interpump Group S.p.A.

Mr Bertoli’s career has included senior positions in Italy, the USA as well as China. During his three years’ assignment for Iveco Motors in Shanghai he gained substantial experience of the Chinese market.

Zhang Xiaodong will be head of customer service China. He will manage all aftersales operations including warranty, parts and service, and will report to Eginardo Bertoli.

[Source : LAMBORGHINI]
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TOKYO : October 30, 2008 - The head of Mazda said on Thursday he did not expect any change in the Japanese automaker's relationship with Ford Motor, amid reports that the struggling U.S. automaker would sell part of its controlling stake.


"We've had a relationship with Ford since the 1970s," CEO Hisazaku Imaki told a news conference.

"Our ties are so close that you can't tell how much of the company is Mazda and how much of it is Ford. We don't expect that there will be any change in this relationship."

Shares in Mazda have been the worst performer of any Japanese automaker in the past month, punished for the company's vulnerability to a stronger yen since it ships most of its cars sold abroad from Japan. The share price has fallen more than 50 percent in the past month, compared with a 28 percent drop in Tokyo's transport sector subindex.

[Source : Reuters via Automotive News .. Sub. Req.]
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WOLFSBURG : October 30, 2008 - Volkswagen presents its vision of the car of tomorrow with Internet access at the International Suppliers Fair (IZB), which is being held from 29 through 31 October at the Allerpark in Wolfsburg. The centre of attention will be a Tiguan prepared by Volkswagen Group Research and a WLAN network created by the research cooperative "Wireless Wolfsburg". The interaction of the pair provides the driver with selected information pertaining to life in the city directly in the display of the navigation system.


In the research cooperative "Wireless Wolfsburg", Volkswagen, Wolfsburg AG, the AutoUni and WobCom together with a group of partner companies have set up a WLAN network for testing mobile Internet access. The Tiguan with the name "auto@web" is in constant contact with the Internet portal, which provides it with current, pertinent information. This all happens unnoticed by the driver. The city's events calendar and various search machines serve as additional sources of information.

The spectrum of information is broad: from the cultural programme to interesting destinations in the city of Wolfsburg, the Tiguan receives a constant overview of the subjects "City Life", "Travel" and "Wellness". This selection of information appears neatly in the display of the navigation system.

The auto@web and the "Wireless Wolfsburg" portal have still more innovative features: you can check, for example, whether the car's doors are locked or if the tank is full from your PC at home or your iPod. Furthermore, it is possible to load a map for your walking route from your parking space to your final destination on your mobile device or display the place where your car is currently parked.

[Source : VOLKSWAGEN]
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Volkswagen’s miniature Up! seems to be spawning little ones of its own. Audi is planning to unveil a new city car based on the Up! concept in 2012. The Audi will likely compete with top-end versions of the Ford Ka and Fiat 500.


The car will likely feature Audi’s hallmark trapezoidal grille, clear headlamps, and beefier wheelarches than the VW. Under the hood, Audi will place a pair of 600cc two-cylinder turbocharged units – one gas and one diesel. Audi has high hopes for fuel economy and is aiming for an impressive 95 MPG (with CO₂ emissions of less than 100g/km.)

Audi is not the only one to borrow from this new micro-car platform. Lower market brands Skoda and SEAT are expected to get versions as well.

[Source : Topspeed]
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TORRANCE, CA : October 29, 2008 - The restyled 2009 Honda Element entry-level SUV builds on its spacious and versatile character by adding a more chiseled exterior appearance and a refreshed interior design with an expanded selection of available high-tech and functional features. Manufacturer Suggested Retail Pricing (MSRP¹) starts at $20,175 for the 2009 Element 2WD LX, plus a destination and handling charge of $670.



For 2009, Honda has enhanced each of the three unique Element styles that range from the rugged and simple Element LX, to the more refined Element EX, to the sporty Element SC. Available new features on the Element EX and SC include the Honda Satellite-linked Navigation System² with Voice Activation and a rearview camera (automatic transmission-equipped vehicles only); USB digital media connectivity; and improved overhead console storage areas with modular compartments.


Significant exterior styling changes include a new front grille and bumper design, restyled front fenders (now metal, previously composite material), a new hood design, squared wheel arches, and new headlight and taillight configurations.

"The Element's key strength is a spacious, versatile and rugged interior that adapts quickly and conveniently to people and cargo," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "For 2009, the enhancements strengthen the totally unique original concept with more refinement and functionality."

New interior changes include new, brighter color schemes with titanium-look side linings, new fabric patterns, and revised switchgear designs and meter graphics. A restyled low-profile center console is standard on the Element LX.

The Element EX adds a new convertible center console with a removable cooler/storage box while the Element SC retains its exclusive center console. For additional storage, the Element EX and SC are equipped with a modular three-compartment overhead console based on the Railport™ Vehicle Personalization System, expanding the vehicle's hidden storage versatility compared to the previous version. The new overhead console includes two large storage bins that can accommodate CD cases and similar items and a rear storage area for sunglasses.

The 2.4-liter i-VTEC® 4-cylinder engine is available with either a standard 5-speed manual transmission or an available 5-speed automatic transmission. Real Time 4WD™, available on the Element LX and EX, enhances all-weather traction. The Element LX and EX continue to be available in two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive configurations, while the sport-tuned Element SC continues to be available exclusively in two-wheel-drive. EPA city/highway fuel economy ratings³ range from 20/25 for two-wheel-drive models with an automatic transmission to 18/23 for manual transmission models with either two-wheel-drive or Real Time 4WD.

Versatile and Accommodating Interior with Available High-tech Features
The interior provides seating for four people along with a cargo area that quickly adapts to large items with its flip-up rear seats that fold flat, fold up and to the side, or can be removed titleogether (64-plus seating arrangements). The Element LX and EX have a water resistant urethane-coated utility floor that quickly wipes down and seat fabric that resists moisture; the Element SC has a carpeted passenger area. Air conditioning with micron air filtration is standard on all models.

The Element LX has a 4-speaker AM/FM audio system with a CD player. The Element EX and SC feature a 270-watt high-output audio system, an AM/FM tuner, CD player with MP3/WMA™⁴ capability, auxiliary audio input for MP3 players or other audio devices, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, seven speakers including a dynamic linear phase 6.5-inch subwoofer (located in the bottom center of the instrument panel). XM® Satellite Radio⁵ is standard on the Element EX and SC.


The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System becomes an available feature for 2009 on the Element EX and SC (automatic transmission models only), and includes a rear backup camera and a USB audio interface⁶. The navigation system features a 6.5-inch motorized display that opens and closes for access to an internal single-disc CD player and a digital audio card reader that can play MP3 and WMA® files from CompactFlash® cards. The navigation system contains more than 7 million points of interest and can control the audio system. The voice recognition is capable of recognizing and entering numbers, street names and cities.

Numerous storage bins and beverage holders provide places for cell phones, CDs and super-size drinks. Available storage areas include: a large three-bin tray above the glove box (ideal for mobile phones and portable music players); a modular 3-compartment overhead storage bin (EX, SC); seat back storage (EX, SC); six hooks for strapping down bikes or other bulky gear; and door storage pockets on all four doors.

Exclusive Element SC interior appointments include passenger-area carpeting, a center console with storage, piano black trim pieces and unique fabrics and patterns. The center console provides an enclosed storage area in the vehicle and integrates the auxiliary audio input jack and two beverage holders. Meter styling color on all Element SC models is copper-hue, replacing the blue backlit illumination on the other models.

Restyled Exterior with Stronger Character Lines
For 2009, exterior styling changes to the front of the vehicle provide a more substantial and bolder look. Changes to the front fascia and side profile involve a new hood line that follows a continuously horizontal plane extending from the A-pillar to the front of the vehicle. The new design replaces the downward slope that began mid-fender on the previous models and results in a more vertical front appearance. Steel front fenders replace the composite body panels on all models (the rear fenders retain composite construction). The new grille design provides a consistent appearance similar to other Honda truck models. The rear skylight, previously exclusive to Elements equipped with Retitleime 4WD, has been discontinued.

The Element SC provides an exclusive appearance with street custom-inspired styling with a lowered stance and exclusive premium features. The Element SC's exterior styling exhibits a performance-oriented attitude with a monochromatic color scheme and exclusive features that include custom front and rear painted bumpers, large alloy wheels, custom grille, and a lowered stance. The lowered stance is achieved by lowering the ride height and by using uniquely shaped painted side sills and slimmer roof moldings.

Refined Chassis Design
The Element's fully independent suspension uses a front MacPherson strut design and a rear compact double wishbone design for responsive handling and a comfortable ride. A 101.4-inch wheelbase contributes to a compact exterior size and an ultra-tight turning diameter of 34.9-feet (36.9-feet, Element SC) provides maneuverability in tight places.

Chassis safety highlights include Vehicle Stability Assist (also known as Electronic Stability Control) and four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. Vehicle Stability Assist helps sense oversteer and understeer, and can adjust brake pressure at each wheel and/or reduce engine power to help restore the driver's intended course. Electronic Brake Distribution helps to balance braking forces depending on dynamic loading. Brake Assist helps apply full braking force in some emergency braking situations. A Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) alerts the driver when tire pressure is significantly under-inflated.

Element LX and EX models are equipped with 16-inch wheels (steel on LX, alloy on EX) with all-season P215/70R16 tires. Additional LX and EX standard features include power rack-and-pinion steering and front and rear stabilizer bars (30.0x4.5 mm tubular front / 21.0 mm solid rear). The Element SC adds 18-inch alloy wheels, P225/55R18 tires, exclusive spring and damper tuning (30 percent firmer), a lowered ride height (approximately 0.7 inches) and increased rear stabilizer bar size (25.0 mm, solid). Compared to Element LX and EX, the solid front stabilizer bar is 25 percent stiffer and the rear stabilizer bar is 30 percent stiffer. The steering rack also provides a 6 percent faster ratio (2.94:1 compared to 3.26:1).

Efficient Powertrain
An all-aluminum, 2.4-liter, DOHC i-VTEC engine produces 166-horsepower at 5800 rpm and 161 lb-ft. of torque at 4000 rpm. The Element's i-VTEC system combines Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®) and a cam position-adjusting Variable Timing Control (VTC) system to enhance low rpm torque while extending high rpm horsepower. The result is a broad torque curve that starts early at low RPM's while still delivering high-RPM horsepower.

The five-speed manual transmission features a lightweight and rigid aluminum die-cast housing. Multi-cone synchronizers used on first through fourth gears contribute to a smooth, fluid shift feel while reducing throw distances. Inside, the instrument panel- mounted shift lever facilitates quick, direct gear changes. The five-speed automatic transmission (available) delivers exceptional smoothness, economy and intuitive shift points. Grade Logic Control minimizes "gear hunting" on hilly roads.

Available on Element LX and EX, the Real Time 4WD system aids traction in snow, rain and sand. Real Time 4WD sends power to the rear wheels when the front wheels experience traction loss.

The vehicle maintenance schedule is calculated by the Maintenance Minder™⁷ system. Maintenance Minder automatically indicates when to have standard service performed based on actual driving conditions (tracked by the ECU) and minimizes the guesswork in determining standard or severe use conditions for maintenance interval purposes. The display indicates when to change the oil, air filter, transmission fluid, spark plugs or coolant, as well as when to rotate the tires. The Element requires no scheduled tune-ups for 100K+/- Miles.

Honda Safety
The Element is equipped with dual-stage, dual-threshold supplemental restraint system (SRS) airbags for the driver and front passenger. The airbags are designed to minimize the potential for airbag injury while providing head and chest protection for the occupants in the event of a frontal collision. The front airbag system features front passenger seat weight sensors and a driver seat position sensor designed to further enhance occupant protection.

Seat-mounted front side airbags help safeguard the driver and front passenger from side-impact injury. An innovative Occupant Position Detection System is used to assure that the passenger's side airbag has a clear path for deployment. In the event that a child (or a small-statured adult) leans into the deployment path of the side airbag, a seven-segment "antenna" system built within the seat back signals this condition to an electronic control unit (ECU) and the passenger's side airbag is switched off.

Both rows of occupants are protected by Honda's Side Curtain Airbag with rollover sensor system. The side curtain airbags deploy from modules in the headliner in the event of a sufficient side impact, providing a significant level of head protection in the window area. In the unlikely event of a rollover, a roll rate sensor and multiple G-force sensors determine the rate of roll and deploy the side curtain airbags accordingly.

Both front seat belts have automatic tensioners and load limiters that work together to help protect the driver and front passenger in a collision. A LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child-seat mounting system is standard for the two rear seat positions, allowing two outboard child seats to be installed. For pedestrian injury mitigation, design features in the front of the vehicle can help absorb energy in the event of a collision with a pedestrian to help minimize injury. New for 2009, active front seat head restraints have been designed to help reduce the severity of neck injuries in the event of a rear impact.

The Element is assembled in Ohio at the Honda of America Mfg., Inc., East Liberty Auto Plant using domestic and globally sourced parts.

1 MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $670.00 destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.

2 The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System is available on Element EX and SC models in the United States, except Alaska. See your Honda dealer for details.

3 Based on 2009 EPA mileage estimates, reflecting new EPA fuel economy methods beginning with 2008 models. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

4 Windows Media® Audio is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.

5 Required XM® Radio monthly subscription sold separately after 90 day trial period. Installation costs and other fees and taxes may apply after initial trial period, including a one-time activation fee. Subscription fee is consumer only. All fees and programming subject to change. Subscriptions subject to Customer Agreement available at xmradio.com. XM service only available in the 48 contiguous United States. The XM name is a registered trademark of XM Satellite Radio Inc.

6 The USB Audio Interface is used for direct connection to and control of some current digital audio players and other USB devices that contain MP3, WMA or AAC music files. Some USB devices with security software and digital rights-protected files may not work. Please see your dealer for details on compatibility.

7 May vary with driving conditions. Does not apply to fluid and filter changes. Exact mileage is determined by actual driving conditions. Please see your owner's manual for more details.

Images : 2009 Honda Element EX







Images : 2009 Honda Element SC







[Source : HONDA]
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DEARBORN, Mich. : October. 29, 2008 - A choice lineup of gas-powered engines will deliver even more horsepower and better fuel economy in the 2010 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan mid-size sedans, which already stand out for their strong reliability and driving dynamics.


For 2009, the 2010 model year Fusion and Milan will offer Ford's all-new Duratec 2.5-liter I-4, producing 175 horsepower; an enhanced 3.0-liter V-6 with 19 more horsepower than its predecessor; and a 3.5-liter V-6 that pumps out 263 horsepower on the Fusion Sport model.

Fusion models equipped with the 2.5-liter I-4 engine are expected to deliver at least 3 mpg better on the highway than the Honda Accord and 2 mpg better than the Toyota Camry.

All are paired with six-speed transmissions for up to a 10 percent fuel economy improvement and a host of other industry-first technologies aimed at improving performance while gaining fuel economy.

"Customers want it all exhilarating performance, continuing fuel economy improvements and low emissions -- all for a price that offers great value," said Barb Samardzich, vice president, Powertrain Product Development. "Ford intends to deliver on every expectation as we migrate advanced technologies from shelf to showroom."

Recent internal research shows that fuel economy continues to top customers' purchase-consideration lists, with 38 percent of new-vehicle intenders citing that they would be willing to sacrifice performance for better fuel economy.

Ford's powertrain strategy is built on a no-compromise proposition, using affordable engine, transmission and vehicle system technologies in large volumes so millions of customers can enjoy the best of both worlds -- class-leading fuel economy and high-quality driving performance.

The all-new 2010 Fusion and Milan are the latest vehicles in the Ford lineup to benefit from the company's push to improve the commonality of its powertrain products globally. Ford's strategy is to create a smaller number of flexible engine and transmission architectures, resulting in more consistent quality for customers and manufacturing cost efficiencies for the company.

Ford already has invested millions of dollars to develop advanced powertrain technologies and convert engine plants to flexibly produce high-technology smaller-displacement engines. These investments are helping Ford make good on commitments to upgrade or replace nearly all of its North American engines by the end of 2010; power one of every five products in North America with its fuel-conscious-yet-great-performing 3.5-liter V-6; and offer fuel-efficient six-speed transmissions on 98 percent of its North American lineup by the end of 2012.

An array of 2009 products already is the best or among the best for fuel economy in their respective segments, including the Ford Flex (best highway at 24 mpg), the Ford Focus (unsurpassed for best highway at 35 mpg) and the Ford Escape (best-in-class for the small SUV segment with 28 highway/20 city mpg).

The 2010 Fusion and Milan are expected to deliver similar fuel economy achievements in the mid-size car segment, helping build upon a stellar quality reputation that includes Best Buy recommendations from several top consumer publications.


The 2.5-liter I-4

First launched on the fuel-economy segment leader 2009 Ford Escape, Ford's all-new Duratec 2.5-liter I-4 gives the 2010 Fusion 175 horsepower and 172 lb.-ft. of torque, 14 more horsepower and 16 more lb.-ft. of torque than the preceding year's 2.3-liter engine.

The 2.5-liter uses intake variable cam timing (iVCT) technology to optimize valve timing, creating a broad torque curve that helps deliver increased power along with improved efficiency.

The powertrain also incorporates electronic throttle control (ETC), dual-mode crankshaft damping, new intake and exhaust manifolds, and a new underbody-only catalyst, which refine performance and contribute to greater fuel efficiency.

The 3.0-liter V-6

The improved 3.0-liter V-6 available on the 2010 Fusion delivers 19 more horsepower and 23 more lb.-ft. of torque for a total of 240 horsepower and 228 lb.-ft. of torque.

The 3.0-liter features a new air induction system and ETC as well as an industry-first Cam Torque Actuated (CTA) iVCT technology that uses available camshaft torsional energy rather than pressurized oil to phase the camshafts. This allows for a smaller displacement oil pump versus traditional hydraulic VCT systems for improved fuel economy.

"With this technology, we are taking energy that is in your engine today -- energy that was previously wasted -- and using it to make an engine more efficient," said Steve Wilkie, supervisor of Cam Drive/VCT Design. "The cam torque actuated technology is a significant player in the 3.0-liter's ability to provide customers fuel economy and performance."

This innovative method uses torsional energy to move the camshafts similar to the way a hydraulic ratchet works. The system takes oil from one side of the phaser and channels it to the other side, rather than draining one side and filling the other as with a traditional hydraulic system. This allows the CTA system to work more efficiently at all engine speeds and it requires a smaller oil pump, which equates to lower parasitic energy loss.

CTA reduces oil pump flow requirements by approximately 25 percent, producing a fuel economy benefit up to 0.4 percent. In addition, the CTA-based system responds more quickly than a traditional hydraulic oil actuated VCT system, improving tip-in performance feel and contributing to horsepower gains.

The 3.0-liter is also flex-fuel capable and can run on E85, helping Ford deliver on a pledge made to double annual production of vehicles capable of running on renewable fuels by 2010.

The 3.5-liter V-6

The award-winning Duratec 3.5-liter V-6 joins the Fusion lineup for 2010, powering the Sport model with a beefy 263 horsepower and 249 lb.-ft. of torque.

The 3.5-liter uses a compact, lightweight dual-overhead cam valvetrain for peak power and smooth operation at high RPMs. This engine also incorporates intake variable cam timing to optimize valve timing for a smooth idle and an impressive broad torque curve with good power. A high 10.3:1 compression ratio and aluminum cylinder heads designed for high airflow and optimized combustion help complete the package, supporting the engine's ability to deliver great performance and fuel economy, along with low emissions.


The Six-Speed Trans

The new pairing of Fusion's engines with the 6F35-Mid automatic transmission further drives the mid-size sedan's competitive advantage, especially when compared to the outgoing five-speed gearbox that was offered with Fusion's I-4 models. A five-speed is still the gearbox-of-choice for the 2.0-liter varieties offered on segment contenders Toyota Camry and Honda Accord.

When the six-speed is paired with the 2.5-liter engine, for example, the Fusion powerpack delivers a 10 percent improvement in fuel efficiency along with increased power. The 3.0-liter configurations gain a 4- to 6-percent efficiency.

The Ford transmission team made several specific modifications to the 6F35-Mid to optimize its performance for Fusion, including using unique final drive ratios for the 2.5-liter and 3.0-liter, developing an improved converter lock-up for lower operating temperatures and efficiency, recalibrating the converter clutch to accommodate a fuel-saving aggressive deceleration fuel shut-off system as well as other tweaks to diminish parasitic losses.

A SelectShift function on the 3.0-liter applications was also added to give customers the option of a fun-to-shift manual experience.

Other Fuel Savers


The Fusion gas powerpacks incorporate other advanced fuel-saving and performance technologies, including:

• Electric Power Steering (EPS). The 2010 Fusion has a rack- or belt-driven EPS system. Available on the 2.5-liter and 3.0-liter engines, energy consumption of an EPS system is typically less than 7 percent of a conventional hydraulic rack and pinion power steering system, contributing to less fuel consumption. Ford has committed to fit up to 90 percent of its Ford, Lincoln and Mercury products with EPS by 2012 and first introduced a column-based EPS system on the 2008 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner.
  
• Adaptive Spark Ignition. Included on the V-6 configurations, this system can sense what type of fuel is being injected into the motor and communicates the information to the powertrain control module (PCM), which adjusts the spark accordingly. The ignition system features two knock sensors rather than one to further improve performance. These two sensors detect the presence of uncontrolled burning in the chambers more accurately, so the control module can retard engine timing as needed to eliminate the potential for engine knock and pinging.
  
• Aggressive Deceleration Fuel Shut-off. The 3.0-liter V-6 also regulates its gas consumption by using aggressive deceleration fuel shut-off for an efficiency improvement of approximately 1 percent. When the driver releases the accelerator pedal to slow down, the system temporarily turns off the fuel. The flow of fuel seamlessly resumes when the vehicle reaches a low speed or when the driver accelerates again. The system uses the transmission to keep the engine running at a low, more efficient operating point whenever possible. This system will be added to the 2.5-liter lineup later in the 2010 model year.

[Source : FORD]
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• Five Axis "Project GS" luxury sport sedan
• Five Axis "Project IS F" with a newly fortified engine
• F-Sport-equipped IS 350 with a new concept body kit
• Four new projects based on the IS F high-performance sport sedan
• A specially modified LX 570 luxury utility vehicle

TORRANCE, CA : October 29, 2008 - marks its return to the SEMA Show with another selection of exciting project cars following its official debut at the 2007 show.


All of the vehicles will be available for viewing at the Lexus exhibit tent, located outside between the Central and South Halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center. The tent sits next to the Motor Trend Proving Ground powered by Lexus, where the 416-horsepower IS F and an F-Sport equipped IS 350 will be available for test drives.



Project GS by Five Axis

After wowing the SEMA Show crowd in 2007 with the amazing Project IS F, Troy Sumitomo makes a return engagement, this time with a fresh take on the Lexus GS 460. Sumitomo brings the considerable expertise of his Five Axis automotive design company to bear on this exciting GS concept. The car will be unveiled on Tuesday, November 4 inside the Lexus SEMA Show display where Troy will be on hand to discuss his latest creation with members of the media.

Highlights:

Exterior

• Five Axis widebody conversion
  
• PPG custom formulated Satin Titanium Pearl paint by Five Axis with onyx and papaya accents

Exhaust

• Custom fabricated exhaust with dual finishers by Five Axis

Wheels

• FIVE:AD ONYX R5:F alloy wheels
  
• o Front: 20x8.5", ET25
  o Rear: 20x10.5", ET22

Tires

• Yokohama Advan concept tires with tread design by Five Axis
  
• o Front: 245/30- ZR20
  o Rear: 295/25-ZR20

Suspension

• Sport shocks
  
• Performance lowering springs

Brakes

• High-Performance Big Brake Kit - Front
  
• o 355mm x 32mm rotors
  o Six-piston opposed, 2- piece fixed, bolt-in-bridge caliper

• High-Performance Big Brake Kit - Rear
  
• o 345mm x 28mm rotors
  o Four-piston opposed, fixed, bolt-in-bridge caliper

Project IS F by Five Axis

Following its stunning debut in 2007, the Five Axis Project IS F went back to the shop for another makeover, this time in the engine compartment. With 416 hp on tap right out of the box, the standard IS F is no slouch. But the Project IS F concept brief included exploring the performance potential of its direct-injected 5.0-liter V8, so it now sports 5.8 liters while receiving ported and flowed cylinder heads, a new exhaust system and changes to the electronic controls. The upshot is enough power and torque to put an evil grin on even the most jaded enthusiast's
face.

Highlights:

Engine

• Bored to 100 mm and stroked to 91.5 mm to yield 5.8 liters
  
• Forged JE Pistons
  
• 12.8:1 compression ratio
  
• Titanium intake and stainless steel exhaust valves
  
• Nitrided crankshaft
  
• Dyers connecting rods

Exhaust

• Custom fabricated low restriction system with dual finishers

Exterior

• Five Axis Design 6" wide body conversion
  
• Five Axis custom satin black pearl paint with satin bronze accents

Interior

• Five Axis Design Sculpted Front and Rear Seats Upholstered in Alcantara with Garrett Basket Weave Leather and Stainless Steel Woven Inserts
  
• Material Specifications by Zing Design by Turinmodel, Inc.
  
• Uniquely Appointed Five Axis Design Interior Trim and Color Enhancements
  
• Chilewich floor mats

Wheels

• FIVE:AD S5:F Wheels with Satin Bronze Finish
  
• o Front: 20x8.5", +25mm offset
  o Rear: 20x10.5", +33mm offset

Tires

• Yokohama Advan Sport
  
• o Front: 245/30-ZR20
  o Rear: 295/25-ZR20

Suspension

• TEIN Adjustable Coil-over Suspension

Brakes

• Brembo GT Brake System

IS 350 with F-Sport Accessories

The IS 250/350 is Lexus' entry point into the luxury sport sedan arena. It's a tuner-friendly and robust platform that responds extremely well to performance upgrades. This car is fully loaded with all the offerings from the F-Sport performance accessory catalog. It also sports a new concept ground-effects body kit designed to complement the increased performance and aggressive stance provided by the F-Sport components.

Highlights :

Exterior

• Four-piece ground-effects body kit and grille by Five Axis
  
• Lexus Genuine Accessory rear spoiler
  
• PPG Vibrance Orange Glow 3-stage paint with satin accents

Interior

• Custom leather interior appointments by Five Axis and Turinmodel, Inc.
  
• F-Sport floor mats

Engine

• F-Sport Performance Air Intake
  
• F-Sport Carbon Fiber Engine Cover

Exhaust

• F-Sport Performance Exhaust

Suspension

• F-Sport Bilstein Shocks
  
• F-Sport Lowering Spring Set
  
• F-Sport Sway Bar Set
  
• F-Sport Under Chassis Brace

Wheels

• F-Sport 19" Forged Aluminum Wheels
  
• o Front: 19"x8"
  o Rear: 19"x9"

Tires

• Yokohama Advan Sport Ultra-high Performance Tires
  
• o Front: 225/35-ZR19 88Y
  o Rear: 255/35-ZR19 96Y

Brakes

• F-Sport Performance Brake Upgrade Kit (Fr)
  
• o 355mm x 32mm Rotor
  o Six-piston opposed, 2 piece fixed, bolt-in?bridge caliper

• F-Sport Performance Brake Upgrade Kit (Rr)
  
• o 345mm x 28mm Rotor
  o Four-piston opposed, fixed, bolt-in-bridge caliper

IS F by Fox Marketing/Artisan Performance

Fox Marketing and Artisan Performance teamed to create this subtle yet aggressive makeover of the already aggressive IS F. The subtle part involves the numerous bodywork changes, which enhance rather than rethink the lines of the IS F, making it look even more muscular in the process. 'Aggressive' can be applied to the engine which gets the full twin-turbo treatment. Fox expects the changes will yield something north of 600 horsepower.

Highlights:

Exterior

• BASF Glasurit Sunset Orange Pearl paint
  
• Webasto Hollandia 9001 sunroof
  
• BodyKits.com Licensed Fox Marketing front bumper
  
• BodyKits.com Licensed Fox Marketing side skirts
  
• BodyKits.com Licensed Fox Marketing rear valance
  
• Custom fender flares
  
• Lightwurkz BASF Black painted HID headlights
  
• Lightwurkz BASF Black tinted taillights
  
• Impressive Signs graphics
  
• Meguiar's Car Care Products
  
• Paint & body by Powell Customs

Interior

• Black leather seats with blue stitching
  
• Callaway golf clubs in the trunk

Engine

• Artisan Twin-Turbo kit
  
• Artisan air intake with AMSOIL filter
  
• Artisan front mount intercooler
  
• Brian Crower connecting rods
  
• JE Pistons
  
• Mishimoto radiator
  
• AMSOIL 0w-30 synthetic engine oil
  
• AMSOIL transmission fluid
  
• Tuned by Kenny Strickler - TurboChargers.com

Exhaust

• Artisan cat-back exhaust

Suspension

• Eibach Pro Kit

Wheels

• Front: 20x9.5 iForged FS Imola
  
• Rear: 20x11.5 iForged FS Imola

Tires

• Front: 255/35-20 Toyo T1R
  
• Rear: 305/30-20 Toyo T1R

IS F by Import Tuner Magazine/TEIN

Import Tuner Magazine and TEIN suspension company put their collective heads and expertise together to create an IS F that's focused on track performance, while still remaining practical for the street. Weight reduction, added chassis stiffness, special suspension and big sticky tires take care of the corners, while a comprehensive nitrous system boosts the engine for bursts of overtaking power. Coming soon to a track near you.
Highlights:

Highlights:

Exterior

• Five Axis dry carbon front lip
  
• Black chrome dipped emblems and front grill
  
• Smoked headlights
  
• S&A Design vinyl

Interior

• Bride racing seats (Brix II for driver, Xax II for passenger)
  
• Custom tinted interior trim
  
• TEIN Dampachi mascot
  

Engine

• NOS 12.8 lbs composite bottle
  
• Nitrous bottle opener
  
• Single fogger wet nitrous system
  
• Quick release bottle bracket
  
• Ntimidator dual LED purge kit
  
• Nitrous bottle heater
  
• P.O.D. system
  
• Nitrous pressure gauges
  
• K&N intake
  
• Tom's Linear Throttle Controller

Exhaust

• Fujitsubo custom full titanium dual exhaust

Suspension/Chassis

• TEIN re-valved Comfort Sport monotube coilovers with Electronic Damping Force Control (EDFC)
  
• SPD Metal Works adjustable fr. upper cont. arms
  
• M1 Fabrication stitch-welded body seams (strategic locations)
  
• Tom's upper performance rod
  
• Tom's front and rear suspension member braces
  
• Tom's rear body strengthening brace

Wheels

• Volk RE30s
  
• o Front: 19x9"; +38 offset
  o Rear: 19x10"; +38 offset

Tires

• Yokohama Advan Sports
  
• o Front: 255/35-19
  o Rear: 275/35-19

Brakes

• Brembo GT Big Brake kit
  
• o Front: 6-piston calipers and two-piece rotors
  o Rear: two-piece rotors
  
• Baker custom rear stainless steel brake lines

With track performance a common theme among IS F builders, 0-60 Magazine ups the ante on their IS F project with a supercharger to tease out another load of horses from the big V8. Carbon fiber body components reduce weight while lowering the center of gravity and a custom roll cage adds stiffness and protection. A beefy brake-upgrade kit was added to balance the performance equation.

Hilights :

Exterior

• Seibon Carbon Panels: Hood, Fenders, Trunk, Spoiler

Interior

• Design Craft Fabrication custom roll cage
  
• Sparco Chrono Road Seats wrapped with interior-matching leather

Engine

• Greddy MP92 Supercharger w/ custom aluminum intake manifold
  
• Greddy Intelligent Informeter Touch
  
• Greddy Intake and filter
  
• Braille Carbon Battery

Exhaust

• Custom system using Greddy Spectrum Elite components

Suspension

• Tein Super Street Coilovers w/ EDFC Kit

Wheels

• Yokohama Advan Racing RZ Wheels
  
• o Front: 19x9"
  o Rear: 19x10"

Tires

• Hankook Ventus EVO V12:
  
• o Front: 245/35-19
  o Rear: 275/30-19

Brakes

• Performance Friction Lexus IS F Z-Rated brake upgrade kits (front and rear):
  
• o Forged 4--piston monobloc calipers
  o Radial mount caliper brackets
  o 2-piece rotor/hat assemblies (372mm front; 355mm rear)
  o Z-rated Carbon Metallic ? multipads specifically for IS-F chassis
  o Stainless steel braided brake lines

IS F by MotorworldHype.com

MotorworldHype has taken another path that is a bit less aggressive, yet more easily accessible for the average consumer. Lots of carbon to reduce some unwanted mass and a well-rounded package of suspension, brake, engine and cosmetic changes provide sharper responses in all directions.

Highlights:

Exterior

• Carbon fiber aero package featuring carbon front chin/splitter and rear diffuser
  
• Weight reduction package featuring carbon fiber replacement trunk lid
  
• Lexus Starfire White paint
  
• Gloss black emblems
  
• Gloss black window sills and roof
  
• Matte black tips

Interior

• Blue Alcantara seat inserts

Engine

• Custom air intake system

Exhaust

• Borla high performance exhaust system

Suspension

• Tein Full Suspension System w/ EDFC

Wheels

• Rays Engineering Volk Racing TE 37 in matte black
  
• o Front: 19x8.5"
  o Rear: 19x9.5"

Tires

• Michelin Pilot Sport 2
  
• o Front: 235/35-19
  o Rear: 265/30-19

Brakes

• Brembo GT Big Brake Kit w/ 6 piston front calipers and floating rotors

LX 570 by ICON 4x4 Design

ICON specializes in 4x4s that are typically off-road oriented. But they envisioned something different for the plush yet rugged LX 570. Their approach here is to give the LX a clean and stealthy appearance through clever use of colors and trim, then top with performance improvements to further enhance the appeal of Lexus' premier luxury utility vehicle.

Highlights:

Exterior

• Matte two-tone gray paint
  
• Black chrome trim and emblems
  
• Side trim removed, roof rack deleted

Interior

• All wood panels replaced with carbon fiber surface effect coatings
  
• Window tint

Engine

• Custom intake system

Exhaust

• Stainless steel exhaust system

Wheels

• Custom finish 24" MOZ Calgary wheels

Tires

• Pirelli Scorpion Zero Asimmetrico 285/35R-24

Brakes

• 6-piston front, 4-piston rear performance brake system

[Source : LEXUS]
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REDWOOD CITY, CA. : October 29, 2008 - EA and Nissan shift into high-gear this holiday! TheNeed for Speed series continues the tradition of featuring the most desirable cars as Black Box, a studio of Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ:ERTS) and Nissan today revealed the highly-anticipated all-new 2009 Nissan 370Z. This marks the first time an auto manufacturer has partnered with a videogame company for the world premiere reveal of a car. The Nissan ZÒ will be available exclusively in this holiday’s hottest action driving title, Need for Speed™ Undercover, available in North America on November 18 and in Europe on November 21.


“For the past 15 years, Need for Speed has helped define contemporary automotive culture by bridging the gap between gamers and the world’s hottest cars. As such, we are very excited to partner with one of the automotive powerhouses today to exclusively reveal the all-new Nissan ZÒ,” said Keith Munro, vice president of Marketing at Electronic Arts. “Need for Speed is about style, fast-paced action and power; this is definitely a car made for Need for Speed fans. Come November, they’ll be able to test drive the all-new 370Z in the game before the car is released on the market.”


“Our relationship with EA has been instrumental in bringing the Nissan brand to a passionate and unique audience,” says Christian Meunier, vice president, Nissan Marketing. “By launching the all-new 2009 Nissan ZÒ first through Need for Speed: Undercover, we also gain the spirit and energy that EA gamers experience so strongly. Together with EA, we have truly integrated the all-new 370Z in the overall game experience in a meaningful, multi-layered and profound way.”


With the signature boomerang headlights and taillights to the enhanced powertrain, Need for Speed Undercover designers worked closely with Nissan to accurately replicate the overall look, feel and performance of the all-new Nissan ZÒ. From the game’s opening moment, players will be thrust right into the action with gamers whipping the 370Z in-and-out of traffic at high speed.

The all-new 2009 Nissan 370Z is a super evolution of the iconic Nissan ZÒ, building on the strengths of it’s predecessor, finding the sports car “sweet spot” in performance, style, and value. The 2009 Nissan Z marks the first full redesign of the Nissan ZÒ since its reintroduction as a 2003 model.

The all-new 2009 Nissan 370Z Coupe will be unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 19, hitting dealerships in early 2009.

VIDEO :

See : Renault Megane Coupe in EA's Need For Speed "UNDERCOVER"

[Source : NISSAN - Electronics Art]
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NASHVILLE, Tenn. : October 29, 2008 - Today! Nissan has released 3 official images of the new Nissan 370Z. No details about the fresh 370Z released with these images. The new 370Z will be shared with Infiniti G37's 3.7 litres V6 engine with 6-speed manual or 7-speed semi-automatic transmission.

Nissan offers the first look at the upcoming 2009 370Z Coupe, which makes its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 19th.


The all-new 2009 Nissan 370Z, the first full redesign of the iconic Nissan Z since its reintroduction as a 2003 model, solidifies the strengths of its predecessor with an unmatched balance of performance, style and value. The all-new 370Z will go on sale at Nissan dealers in early 2009.


[Source : NISSAN]
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STUTTGART : October 29, 2008 - The American environmental authority EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has put the smart fortwo at the top of its current list of the most economical cars without hybrid drive. The US authority confirms independent European studies that had already established the clever two-seater as the most economical car.


According to findings by the American environmental authority EPA, the smart fortwo boasts the best fuel efficiency of all vehicles without hybrid drive approved for the USA. In addition, the two-seater already exceeds the US standards for fleet consumption (CAFE = Corporate Average Fuel Economy) which are planned for 2020 and it has already been classified as an ultra-low emission vehicle (ULEV) in California.


The model available in the USA with 52kW/71 hp and the current smart fortwo mhd models with 45 kW/61 hp and 52 kW/71 hp consume 4,3 litres of fuel per hundred kilometres (CO₂ emissions of 103 g/km). The smart fortwo cdi with a 33 kW/45 hp engine is, with a combined consumption of 3.4 litres per hundred kilometres (NEDC), still the most fuel efficient series production vehicle worldwide and with emissions of 88 g /km remains CO₂ Champion. At the same time they take up an unrivalled small amount of road and parking space and yet bring two people including luggage to their destination very comfortably and extremely safely. In this way smart provides a unique answer to many questions concerning individual urban mobility.

Thanks to its outstanding features and its fresh design that combines functionality with joie de vivre, the smart fortwo has become a sought-after cult car in many countries. The sales figures also demonstrate this. Since the start of 2008 the number of smart fortwos delivered to customers worldwide rose by 53 percent to 101,900 cars. In the USA, 19,000 smart fortwos have already been delivered to customers since its launch in January 2008.

[Source : DAIMLER - Smart]
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• Audi brand launches in Vietnam
  
• Exclusive importer opens first Audi dealership in Ho Chi Minh City
  
• Sales chief Schwarzenbauer: “We expect to achieve annual growth rates of 20 to 30 percent in the region.”

HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam : October 29, 2008 - Yesterday’s opening of the first Audi dealership in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) marked the Ingolstadt-based company’s official entry into the Vietnamese market. By launching its sales programme in Vietnam, AUDI AG is reinforcing its position in the region, where the brand is currently scoring its highest growth rates.


“The developing markets of South East Asia represent a great opportunity for us,” said Peter Schwarzenbauer, Member of the Board of Management for Marketing and Sales. “This year we’ll sell around 40 percent more cars than in 2007. For the next few years I anticipate constantly high growth rates of 20 to 30 percent in the region.”

In 2007 the brand with the four rings sold 1,390 automobiles in South East Asia. In Vietnam, Audi is venturing into one of the region’s most dynamic economies: The economic boom of the past few years has been especially beneficial to the premium market in Vietnam, which experienced a disproportionately high growth rate. Audi’s most important location in South East Asia to date has been Singapore, where AUDI AG is represented by a wholly owned National Sales Company.

For this year, Audi is projecting total sales of about 1,300 cars in the city state – effectively doubling its unit sales in just two years. This makes Audi the fastest-growing premium brand in Singapore, with a market share of 11.2 percent (January – September 2008; 8.0 percent in 2007).

In the Vietnamese market, Audi will cooperate with the Automotive Asia group, which will sell the premium cars with the four rings as the exclusive importer. Initially Audi will introduce two top-of-the-line models: the Audi A8 4.2 L TFSI, the brand’s flagship with a long wheelbase, and the Audi Q7 4.2 TFSI. Next year the model range will be increased by the Audi A6, the Audi Q5 and the Audi A4. In addition to the showroom, the Ho Chi Minh City facility offers customers with the brand’s exclusive Audi Service and Audi Genuine Parts in its 1,600 square meter (over 17,000 square feet) dealership.

[Source : AUDI]
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COLOGNE : October 29, 2008 - Unmistakable quality, Scandinavian design and innovative technologies at an attractive entry price: The Volvo V70 is now in a new variety from the initial 29,900, - Euro. The engine program consists of a four-gasoline car, a four-common-rail diesel and a special economic FlexiFuel variant.


"The Volvo V70 is not only a classic , it's also one of the best-selling vehicles in the premium segment and Patterns in its class is the clear number one among imported automobiles," said Thomas Viehweg, managing director of Volvo Car Germany GmbH

Sporty dynamism, extremely comfortable space, elegant design and unique security solutions such as integrated child seats adjustable two-tiered draw the wagonnation of premium. With the new equipment variant, the Swedish car manufacturer is now a very attractive entry opportunity for price-sensitive wagon-lovers. This equipment variant convincing performance, best security, excellent design and perfect functionality, to the squareest detail mature.

The initial version of the new Volvo V70 is available in three engines. As a Volvo V70 2.0 petrol engine with cylinder, 2.0 liter engine capacity, 145 hp (107 kW) and five-speed manual gearbox. The Volvo V70 2.0 accelerates in 11.3 seconds from 0 to 100 km / h, reached a maximum speed of 200 km / h and consumes an average of 8.6 liters per 100 km. The four-common-rail diesel bears the name Volvo V70 2.0D, also has two liters engine capacity, makes 136 hp (100 kW) and has over a standard six-speed manual gearbox. He needed for the sprint from a standing start to 100 km / h 11.4 seconds, reaches 195 km / h speed limit itself and, on average, with 5.9 liters per 100 km.

The third engine variant is a FlexiFuel version with five-speed manual gearbox and 145 hp (107 kW), which titleernatively with bio-ethanol (E85) or gasoline can be operated. The Volvo V70 2.0F accelerated in 11.3 seconds from 0 to 100 km / h and reaches a top speed of 200 km / h.

The standard equipment of the new base model includes air conditioning, the audio package "sound performance" and decorative deposits in the interior. As a supplement is also an optional "comfort package" available, inter alia, to the 16-inch alloy wheels, a speed control device , A multifunction leather steering wheel and leather switching selector belong.

Overall, for the Volvo V70 four gasoline engines with a capacity of 145 hp (107 kW) and 285 hp (210 kW) to choose from, including two six-cylinder. Three powerful and economical common-rail turbo diesel particulate filter including serienmäßigem with an output of 136 hp (100 kW) to 185 hp (136 kW) and two FlexiFuel versions with 145 hp (107 kW) and 200 hp (147 kW) round out the offerings.

V70 has great potential as a trendsetter in the premium segment of the combos proves the Volvo V70 in several areas. With its intelligent cargo system and the threefold Backseat bank, he has the character of a multifunction model that the needs of families as well as those needs of professional users that their vehicles for various purposes. High-quality materials and first class series provide scope for a luxurious ambience.

In addition, the Volvo V70 has a highly developed network of interactive safety. While the patented body structure, the impact energy absorbed in an effective manner, the interior offers a multitude of advanced systems optimized SIPS head and shoulder airbag until Whips whiplash protection system all passengers the best possible protection. Complemented the range of safety equipment by modern driver-information systems, such as IDIS, or the emergency system Volvo On Call.

Traditionally, the Swedish premium manufacturer with a strong focus on child safety. For the premium combo are optional two unique in the backseat Bank and two-height adjustable integrated child seats available.

The Volvo V70 is also a testament to the fascination of modern Scandinavian design. Its harmonious proportions underline the strong character and give him individual class. The Volvo V70 impressed by versatility and driving dynamics. In addition strengthens the model of success with a fine, but discreet luxury its position in the premium segment.

Images : 2009 Volvo V70








[Source : VOLVO]
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LUSTENAU, Austria : October 28, 2008 - The time has come! Austrian tuner O.CT Tuning has completed development on power upgrades for vehicles with the new ECU class MED 17 using the OBD II connection.


All power kits are uploaded to the OBD connection using IPRO (Intelligent Programming). Like all O.CT upgrades, the new MED 17 kits are developed by O.CT personally and are tailored to each engine's specifics, guaranteeing maximum durability and performance. Opening the engine control unit is no longer necessary. Every customer can have power upgrades performed by one of our worldwide dealers – including models with the MED 17 ECU.

One of the first vehicles using this system that O.CT has modified is the 1.4 TSI engine by VW. This engine is offered in two trims from 140 to 170 horsepower. An additional 125 or 122 horsepower version is also available for many VW vehicles. Using a revolutionary concept of direct injection combined with a supercharger and turbocharger, Volkswagen has extracted commendable performance from this 1,4 liter engine, while drastically reducing emissions and fuel consumption.

However, O.CT Tuning still saw room for improvement.

As a result, O.CT developed a 193 horsepower power upgrade. Combined with the increase in torque (up to 65 Nm), the engine now offers noticeably improved acceleration, reaching 100 km/h from standstill 1,2 seconds quicker than the 140 hp stock version. Even more impressive: the difference to 180 km/h. The O.CT 1.4 TSI reaches this speed a breathtaking 12 seconds quicker. That translates into 110 car lengths! More importantly, this performance offers increased comfort and safety when passing slower cars on the freeway or a country road. Top speed rises from 205 to 225 km/h – while beiing just as frugal with fuel as the standard car.

O.CT also offers power upgrades via OBD for the 150, 160 and 170 hp versions of the award winning 1.4 TSI engine family.

O.CT paid particular attention to the 150 hp VW Tiguan 1.4 TSI 4 Motion. With an additional 40 hp and 40 Newtonmeters of torque, the small SUV sprints to 100 km/h a full second faster and reaches 180 km/h a whopping 10 seconds sooner than the standard vehicle – an 86 car length advantage. The small sports utility vehicle transforms into a big performer with O.CT Tuning.

Images : VW Tiguan 1.4 TSI - Tuned by O.CT Tuning




[Source : O.CT Tuning]
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SCHWABACH : October 28, 2008 - Hot camshafts? In the age of chip tuning, that sounds like a relic of the Eighties. Incorrectly, as there is not much extra power to be gained electronically from a naturally aspirated engine.



Mechanical measures continue to be the first choice there, and more effective than ever before in combination with an adjustment of the engine management. One particularly successful example is the C 350 Limousine from Sportservice Lorinser, an almost irresistible temptation for everyone with petrol in their blood: special camshafts and a modified engine control unit kindle here far more fire than the series version of the extremely successful 3.5-litre V6. 305 HP (224 kW) instead of 272 HP (200 kW) are an end result that can be more than seen in a non-charged engine, especially since the fast Mercedes accelerates powerfully with 380 instead of 350 Nm, even at very low RPM. As a result of the tuning measure, the interval between opening the exhaust valve and closing the intake valve becomes bigger. The result is a "hot" overlap, which is where the camshaft modification gets its name from. On the other hand, the Lorinser lowering kit is responsible for the "hot" handling in the bend. An additional bonus in the driving-fun account.


Digital or analogue? Music fans may argue about this point, but not car enthusiasts.. Of course, the Lorinser sports exhaust system plays music purely mechanically, and develops such a crescendo when the accelerator pedal is pushed enthusiastically that even eardrums get goosebumps. But the optical charms of the C-Class also easily arouse the desire to own one. Is it the well-designed exhaust tailpipes integrated into the Lorinser rear apron that the sporty roof and rear spoiler soar above? The muscular side sills or the striking front apron? An abundance of details that add up to a fascinating automobile. The model RS 8 matt black 19-inch light-alloy wheels draw attention to themselves as they provide exciting contrasts in combination with the white bodywork colour. An additional stylish titleernative is the silver-coloured light-alloy wheel RS 9 from the Lorinser assortment. An offer that repeatedly proves in its totality that the Winnenden customiser won't be losing steam any time soon when it comes down to stirring up passions for automobiles.

Images : New Lorinser C-Klasse 305 HP Tuned!




[Source : LORINSER]
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DEARBORN, Mich., Oct. 28, 2008 – America’s best-selling pickups for 31 consecutive years are also the most accessorized vehicles in the aftermarket, and this year’s Specititley Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show brings new options aplenty for the 2009 Ford F-150.


Four F-150 project trucks – running the gamut from a rolling work shop to a functional fun machine – debut at the SEMA show in Las Vegas, which runs Nov. 4-7.

The F-150 Heavy Duty DEWtitle Contractor Concept was designed to be the “ultimate contractor’s truck,” according to Jennifer Ervin, director of Business Development for DEWtitle.

“At DEWtitle, we are obsessed with developing innovative solutions for the professional contractor that will deliver productivity on the job site,” she said. “We have thoroughly thought through how a contractor uses his or her truck on the job, and we’ve worked hard to integrate every application into the truck.”

The DEWtitle Contractor includes features such as a built-in charger for battery-powered tools that is hidden in the center console, a customized storage area beneath the second-row seat and Ford Works Solutions™ Tool Link™ from DEWtitle.

“Tool Link will enable contractors to know if they have the right tools for the job in the truck when they leave in the morning, and it also helps prevent loss of tools at the end of the day,” said Ervin.

Mike Duval, owner of X’Treme Toyz, had something else in mind for the F-150 he dubbed “Fahrenheit F-150°.”

“I ride motorcycles, mountain bikes and four wheelers, and I like to go camping,” he said. “I wanted to transform the truck into a functional, fun vehicle for outdoorsmen like myself.”

In addition to “hot flame” exterior graphics, the Fahrenheit F-150° includes features including a 9,000 lb. winch hidden behind the license plate at the front and rear of the truck; a bike rack across the top rail; and a Bedslide sliding cargo drawer equipped with a toolbox, tire and small compressor.

“You can basically put all of your toys in the truck, hook up the trailer and go,” said Duval. “And with the winch on both ends of the truck, you can get pulled in either direction if you get stuck.”

Duval says he usually “goes crazy” with the interiors of his show cars, but he didn’t see a reason to tamper with the interior of the 2009 F-150.

“I didn’t do a whole lot to the interior because the factory did such a fantastic job with the vehicle right out of the gate,” he said. “It’s got a great stereo system, Ford SYNC™ and a variety of other creature comforts.”

In addition to a well-appointed interior, the 2009 F-150 offers customizers like Duval a variety of different options straight from the factory to build upon. The vehicle is available with three cab styles, four box options and seven unique trim levels -- a total of 35 different configurations in all.

Ford Designer Melvin Betancourt says he believes the F-150 is so popular in the aftermarket because in addition to all the “built-in” options available on the vehicle, there are still countless ways for customization enthusiasts to change it up.

“Whether it’s adding big tires for off-roading or lowering the truck to give it more of a street performance look, the F-150 is like a blank canvas that you can do almost anything with,” said Betancourt. “It all depends on the personality of the owner.”

The 2009 Ford F-150s featured at this year’s SEMA show include:

2009 Ford F-150 Heavy Duty DEWtitle Contractor
When there is a job to do, Ford F-Series trucks are the leading choice for the men and women who need to get it done. The 2009 Ford F-150 continues this work truck leadership with even more capability and smart pickup features than ever before.

The Heavy Duty DEWtitle Contractor turns the 2009 F-150 into the ultimate tough truck for any job site with features that will drive productivity and help contractors achieve their peak performance. This rugged, durable, hard-working truck is equipped with powertrain mods to improve performance and efficiency plus a long list of custom features that turn it into a rolling work shop. To ensure that they have the right tool at their fingertips for any job, contractors can effectively store and manage their tool inventory through Tool Link and Customized On Board Storage.

2009 Ford F-150 FX-4 by X-Treme Toyz


The 2009 Ford F-150 FX-4 is “Built Ford Tough” for hard work or for rough play. Starting with this extremely capable pickup X-Treme Toyz turns up the heat with its “Fahrenheit F-150.”

This highly functional fun machine is totally tricked out for the active outdoor lifestyle enthusiast. With a radically rugged-looking exterior, a luxuriously refined interior plus a full array of functional upgrades and accessories, this truck will put true weekend warriors in the zone. It lets them play rough all day, hose off the mud, then hit the nightspots in style.

2009 Ford F-150 by Street Scene Equipment


The new Ford F-150 Lariat is built for those who don’t believe in compromises. It combines “Built Ford Tough” performance and capability with a surprising level of comfort and luxury.

Drawing on years of experience and success in the sport truck market, Street Scene Equipment has taken the no-compromise attitude of the 2009 F-150 Lariat Supercrew to the next level. The result is the perfect combination of head-turning style and tough performance with the level of comfort now expected by today’s demanding truck owners. Whether it’s putting in a hard day at work, towing a large boat to the lake for a weekend of family fun or a taking friends to a black tie event, the Ford F-150 by Street Scene will get you noticed and get you there in comfort and luxury.

Hi-Pa Drive™ F-150


What’s been taken out of this Ford F-150 hinges on what’s been put in. The engine, drive train, gear box and all the related parts have been replaced it with the game-changing Hi-Pa Drive™ system. The four electric in-wheel motors that power the fully-electric Hi-Pa Drive F-150 will deliver more than 600 horsepower as well as more torque than the 320 horsepower V-8 engine it replaced. Hi-Pa Drive is helping car designers eliminate oil dependency, carbon emissions and costs, while adding more power, room, performance and design options.

[Source : FORD]
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According to 925.nl for the images of the new One-77 super car from Aston Martin. The One-77 is the fastest (7.3 liter V12 engine) and expensive (for tax £ 1,050,000) car ever made by Aston Martin. Deliveries start from the end of 2009.


Technical Specification


Engine

• Front mid-mounted, 7.3 litre manually aspirated V12 engine incorporating dry sump lubrication system Front mid-mounted
  
• Max Power - over 700 bhp (710 PS, 522 kw)
  
• Max Torque - over 750 Nm (553 lb ft)

Transmission Transmission

• Read mid-mounted, 6 speed Automated Manual Transmission with Auto Shift Manual/Select Shift Manual (ASM/SSM) electro-hydraulic control system

Body

• Two door sports coupe with two seats
  
• Available as left or right hand drive
  
• Carbon fibre monocoque body structure
  
• Hand crafted aluminium exterior body panels
  
• Active aerodynamics with deployable rear spoiler
  
• Approximately 1500kg vehicle weight

Suspension and brakes

• Front and rear, pushrod actuated, adaptive ride height suspension
  
• Carbon Ceramic Matrix breaking system
  
• Dynamic stability control and traction control system

[Source : 925.nl]
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COLOGNE (GERMANY) / BRIDGEND (UK) : October 28, 2008 – Ford is announcing a new investment programme at its high-tech Bridgend engine plant in Wales to produce next generation low CO₂ 1.6-litre, four-cylinder petrol engines.


This latest investment totals £70 million for the plant, where this year employment rose to over 2,000 for the first time in its 28-year history.

Investment at Bridgend has amounted to £315 million in the last five years alone. This additional investment increases the plant's production capability to almost 1,000,000 units per annum. Today's announcement includes Welsh Assembly Government support of £13.4 million.

Investment in global technology
The new 1.6-litre engines will go into production within two years and demonstrate how Ford is meeting future global customer needs by delivering affordable and relevant new technology. They will be among the first of a new generation of global petrol powertrains, known as EcoBoost, featuring turbocharging and direct injection technology.

Ford EcoBoost petrol engines will deliver improved fuel economy and emissions without compromising driving performance and providing an alternative route to hybrid or diesel efficiency.

Compared with current larger displacement petrol engines of similar power, these new engines are expected to provide up to 20 per cent better fuel economy, 15 per cent lower CO₂ emissions and superior driving performance.

EcoBoost engines will join the existing Ford ECOnetic range of frugal, ultra-low CO₂ diesel engined vehicles launched this year – the Focus ECOnetic (115g CO₂/km), the Mondeo (139g) and all-new Fiesta (98g) capable of over 76mpg (European Drive Cycle)*. A new Ford Ka ECOnetic has also been confirmed.

Bridgend's expanding plant
The last new engine added at Bridgend plant was a premium 3.2-litre power unit in 2006. Used by Volvo in its vehicles, the compact in-line six-cylinder engine (SI6) is assembled on a Bridgend line that also produces V8 units and features flexible technology – enabling operators to switch between different products. The SI6/V8 flex line installed in 2004 represented a £245 million investment.

This illustrates the breadth of production at Ford Bridgend: four-, six- and eight-cylinder petrol engines with capacities ranging from 1.25 to 4.4 litres, which will be supplemented by this important new low CO₂ engine.

John Fleming, Ford of Europe chairman and CEO, said: "We're pleased to be able to invest further in the Ford Bridgend facility. The Bridgend team will play an important role in delivering these new engines, which add an innovative ingredient to petrol engine technology and deliver a combination of low emissions and efficient performance that will be vital to meet future customer needs around the world."

Graham Edwards, Ford Bridgend plant manager, added: "We are in an extremely challenging and competitive industry and our employees have demonstrated the ability to deliver continued progress which has been rewarded with this investment.

"The new engine programme will help preserve existing jobs and skills – this has been a real team effort. The joint works council, regional and national unions and our employees worked hard with the management team to secure this new engine. The Welsh Assembly Government provided us with valuable support and assistance."

* Note: Fuel economy figures quoted are based on the European Fuel Economy Directive EU 80/1268/EEC and will differ from fuel economy drive cycle results in other regions of the world.

[Source : FORD]
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• Trazo C1.8 by Dodge is the first sedan for the Dodge brand in key Latin American markets
  
• Offers exceptional value, fuel economy and dependability for customers new to the Dodge brand
  
• Trazo C1.8 is powered by a fuel-efficient, E-100 ethanol-capable 16-valve 1.8-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine
  
• Exterior and interior designs exemplify elegant simplicity and efficiency
  
• Trazo C1.8 gives Chrysler LLC immediate access to new vehicle segments in high-growth markets

SAO PAULO, Brazil : October 28, 2008 - Chrysler LLC launches into a new segment in Latin America with the introduction of the new Trazo C1.8 by Dodge today at the São Paulo Motor Show. Trazo C1.8 will be offered as a four-door sedan with exceptional value and fuel efficiency in Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay. The Trazo C1.8 will be built by Nissan Motor Co., providing Chrysler LLC a high-quality entry into these fast-growing markets.


“The new Trazo C1.8 by Dodge allows us to enter into a segment in which we currently do not compete,” said Mike Manley, Executive Vice President – International Sales, Marketing and Business Development, Chrysler LLC. “The Trazo C1.8 offers customers a high-quality vehicle with great value and provides our dealers with further opportunities to expand their business.”

The exterior of the Trazo C1.8 provides an athletic, yet modern design that is consistent with the rapidly growing Dodge brand. Trazo C1.8’s maximized 102.4-inch (260-centimeter) wheelbase and short front- and rear-overhangs create perfect proportions for city streets, while expressively long rooflines highlight the comfortable and spacious interior.

Trazo C1.8’s grille features intricate louvers that create a contemporary look while integrating the new Trazo emblem. Large halogen headlamps wrap around to front fenders and provide a striking appearance while improving illumination. These elements, combined with a sporty, integrated body-color front fascia, reinforce Trazo C1.8’s youthful looks.

Trazo C1.8’s side profile illustrates aerodynamic efficiency while highlighting generous passenger space within. A raked-back windshield improves Trazo C1.8’s drag coefficient to a low 0.31 Cd while offering a higher roof height for passengers seated in the front and rear. Clean and crisp body-side forms provide a look of sophistication and give balance to the large side glass that gives Trazo C1.8 passengers great visibility.

A well-tailored rear end completes the exterior design while hinting at Trazo C1.8’s cargo versatility. An efficiently shaped deck lid is sandwiched by large jeweled taillamps and provides a strong, integrated look with the wide C-pillar. The deck lid also sits nicely below the large rear window to avoid blocking the driver’s rear view. A large chromed license plate brow and centered Trazo line emblem atop the deck lid ensures the Trazo C1.8 is not a bland, run-of-the-mill four-door.

Space utilization and high-quality interior materials provide Trazo C1.8 with a generously sized interior, rewarding its passenger with comfort and craftsmanship.

Utilizing its longer wheelbase, an interior length of more than two meters front to back makes Trazo C1.8 by Dodge roomy and provides the space needed for an active lifestyle. An up-right seat height position in both front and rear seats allows plenty of leg room. Front-row seats are larger and more comfortable than most C-segment vehicles and deliver comfortable leg room at any position with little compromise to rear-seat passengers. A 60/40 split fold-down rear seat accommodates larger items, while adjustable head rests and a folding arm rest add comfort for up to five passengers on longer road trips.

The instrument panel of the Trazo C1.8 by Dodge duplicates the exterior’s elegantly simple design with a horizontal layout and very efficient use of space. The instruments are housed in three chromed ringed pods, nested in clear view through the sporty three-spoke steering wheel. The center stack contains easy-to-reach climate controls and audio system in addition to a covered storage compartment. A center console, with additional storage features and an ergonomically designed shifter location, flows seamlessly from the instrument panel and defines driver and front-passenger seating areas. Metallic accents on the instrument panel, door panels, steering wheel and other touch points finish off Trazo C1.8’s modern look.

The Trazo C1.8 by Dodge will be available with a 1.8-liter DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder gasoline and E100 ethanol-capable engine with both automatic and manual transmissions. The Variable Valve Timing (VVT) powertrain offers fuel efficiency along with fun-to-drive excitement the Dodge brand is known for.

Quality is a priority for the Trazo C1.8 by Dodge. A three-year, 50,000-kilometer limited warranty is standard on Trazo C1.8, providing ownership confidence.

Chrysler and Nissan’s OEM Agreement
In January 2008, Chrysler LLC and Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. formed an agreement for Nissan to supply Chrysler with a new car for sale in select Latin American markets. The Trazo C1.8 by Dodge will be supplied to Chrysler by Nissan on an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) basis in mid 2009.

The OEM supply agreement is the second product exchange between Chrysler LLC and Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. Nissan affiliate JATCO has been supplying Chrysler with transmissions for various front-wheel-drive vehicles since 2004. The two companies have also agreed to maintain an open dialogue to explore further product-sharing opportunities.

Images : TRAZO by Dodge





[Source : CHRYSLER - Dodge]
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TORONTO, ON : October 27, 2008 – Three Mercedes-Benz Canada vehicles received awards at the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) annual Canadian Car of the Year “TestFest” in Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON. This year, a record-breaking 80 top automotive journalists from across Canada participated in this annual competition. After a week of intensive testing, it was announced that the Mercedes-Benz CL550 4MATIC and Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG tied for first place in the Best New Prestige Car category, and the Mercedes-Benz M-Class BlueTEC diesel was named Best New SUV / CUV (over $60k).



For 2009, the CL550 4MATIC and new generation SL63 AMG both offer sporty, luxurious driving characteristics and unparalleled levels of safety and advanced technology. The CL550 4MATIC is powered by a 382 hp V8, and the new-generation 4MATIC full-time all-wheel drive system, innovative four-wheel electronic traction control and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) integrated with the seven-speed automatic transmission work together to provide greater directional stability, even when road conditions are poor.


The SL63 AMG roadster is powered by a 6.2 litre V8 engine that produces an impressive 518 hp and 465 lb.ft of torque. With special software programming for the Active Body Control (ABC) system, AMG struts with firmer damping and enhanced AMG chassis, the SL63 AMG provides exceptional handling that is consistent with its legendary racing roots.

“We are very pleased that AJAC members have selected both Mercedes-Benz vehicles to receive this prestigious award,” said Marcus Breitschwerdt, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Canada. “For many years the legendary SL-Class and powerful and luxurious CL-Class have had the distinction of being benchmarks in their respective classes. The first place tie for the SL63 AMG and CL550 4MATIC in this important category re-affirms their place at the pinnacle of the premium luxury segment.”


The ML320 BlueTEC diesel is powered by a 210 hp V6 engine that develops 400 ft-lb of torque. Achieving 20%-40% greater fuel efficiency then comparable gasoline engines, the BlueTEC engine offers four cylinder fuel consumption with V8 output; providing impressive acceleration and excellent pulling and towing power.

“The M-Class has always been a trailblazer in the premium SUV segment, and now the new 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML320 BlueTEC offers customers more aggressive styling, a more luxurious interior, and the world’s cleanest state-of-the-art BlueTEC diesel that meets the most stringent BIN5 and ULEV emissions requirements. The ML320 BlueTEC diesel is versatile and fuel-efficient without compromising either performance or the environment,” Breitschwerdt added.

[Source : DAIMLER]
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LAUPHEIM : October 27, 2008 - HAMANN knows how to refine compact sport cars. And with the M aerodynamic package for BMW 1series E 82 Coupe. Hamann once again confirms its supremacy as a manufacturer of sport accessories and thrilling body design.


The aerodynamics package included with front spoiler, rear end panel 4-tailpipes and sport rear muffler 4-tailpipes







[Source : HAMANN Motorsport]
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Simbol Design designed the Lavazza GTX supercar using their 30 year road and racing automotive experience. On the road since May of 2006, and after about 30.000 kms of tests, Simbol reached speeds of about 320 kms/h with excellent stability and braking in every condition.


This result, combined with the overwhelming interest achieved throughout the world, has led to development of the GTX with modified design and improved performance.

It will be equipped with a V12 6.0 cc. Engine achieves 100 hp/litre (this permits a perfect connection between power and reliability) and a speed of 360 kms/h. reaching 620 hp.

Chassis is made with special steel and the body is made with carbon kevlar for greater safety in case of crash (not sprinter as it happens with carbon fibre).

The new brake system and the studied aerodynamics with a coefficient cx 0,19 and variable geometry ensures perfect performances and safety at high speeds.

Electro gearbox with direct grafting without pre-selection ensures a fast and accurate gear insertion. Simbol used a new gearbox with only four gears, in order to reach maximum speed as fast as possible along with faster stopping time.

Simbol offers different engines and fittings according to costumer’s choise, and are also available in rolling chassis in countries where the car is not approved.

As requested by some American devotees, Simbol can install custom engines from their own motor-mechanics, the GTX-R is designed to support up to 1000 hp.

The car will be available in the spring of 2009 in limited production, in order to ensure axclusivity and a secure investment for the buyers.

Images : 2009 Simbol Lavazza GTX




[Source : SIMBOL via All world cars]
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SAO PAULO : October 27, 2008 - General Motors revealed the Chevrolet GPiX crossover coupe concept at the 25th edition of the Sao Paulo International Auto Show. The Chevrolet GPiX concept was developed by General Motors Design in Brazil and represents a potential new segment for GM in the Mercosur region.


The GPiX concept features a two-door body style with high ground clearance appropriate for the
types of roads and conditions found in emerging markets. "It offers the sporty design and versatility necessary for a country with the continental dimensions of Brazil," said Carlos Barba, General Director of Design for GM Latin America, Africa and Middle East.

GPiX also combines Chevrolet's global design "DNA" with the cost-benefit proposition necessary to compete in today's emerging markets. Jaime Ardila, President of General Motors Brazil and Mercosur said, "with this project, the Chevrolet GPiX concept could result in the development of many models for Brazil and the Mercosur region." Chevrolet GPiX

Dynamic and daring design

The GPiX concept draws attention with its strong profile and a lateral waistline that exudes dynamism. Its daring front end is highlighted by the famous Chevrolet gold bowtie in the front grille and LED headlamps. The 17-inch mixed-use wheels and tires add a rugged look to the crossover coupe. And, the panoramic glass roof provides maximum light in the passenger compartment and increases the sensation of space.

Versatile on the inside with space for four

The GPiX concept stands out even more for its versatility and technology. Its interior is functional with seating for four. All seats fold and the floor panel is flat, which increases spaciousness.

The instrument panel has a modern design, with easy-to-read digital displays. The multifunctional steering wheel has a completely new design and is made for total driver-car interaction. The driver can easily use the connectivity and entertainment systems available, such as Bluetooth, hand-held computers, CD player and MP3 player, among others.
It also includes features that customers have come to expect in production Chevrolet vehicles offered in Brazil, such as air conditioning, power steering and power windows.

Images : Chevrolet GPiX crossover coupe concept





[Source : GM - Chevrolet]
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The `Dakar' Rally 2009 promises to be the most demanding test yet for the Volkswagen Motorsport team, as it prepares to take on some of the harshest and most challenging terrain on the planet in its Race Touareg 2.


The four factory-prepared Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 models will be piloted by Spaniard Carlos Sainz, Giniel de Villiers (South Africa), Mark Miller (USA) and Dieter Depping.

The racers are powered by a 2.5-liter TDI diesel engine producing 280hp. They are currently under construction at Volkswagen Motorsport in Hanover, Germany. From there, the support and service trucks plus parts and equipment needed to compete in the world's toughest motorsport event, will be transported to Le Havre, France for scrutineering, which takes place on November 26. They will then be shipped to South America for the race.


For the first time in the event's history, the 2009 race takes place across the South American continent following last year's terrorist threat. Starting in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on 3 January 2009 and covering more than 5,625 grueling miles over 15 stages, the teams will travel through Argentina and Chile from the Atlantic to the Pacific coasts and back again.

The stages include passage through the Atacama Desert, the driest desert in the world with the highest dune fields. It will also cross the Andes twice, encountering altitudes of up to 15,000ft.

In preparation for these extreme conditions, both men and machines have been specially prepared. The drivers have completed altitude training in the Alps, while the 2.5-liter TDI engines have been subjected to thousands of miles of durability testing in an environment chamber designed to simulate extreme altitudes.


The constantly changing landscapes and varying terrain along the route are not only an extremely demanding test for the vehicles, drivers and co-drivers, but they also provide a new set of challenges for the technicians and engineers in terms of vehicle set-up and maintenance.

The Race Touareg `Dakar' prototype has scored nine wins over 24 events and 29 podium finishes. With two victories and a second place in three races during 2008, the Race Touareg 2 is one of the most successful cars of its type and each team will be hoping to build on this success in 2009.

[Source : VOLKSWAGEN via Eurotuner]
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Motorsport is very important for KTM, as indicated by the company slogan 'Ready to Race'. It was therefore entirely logical that at the same time as the plans for the series production were developing, KTM was planning to run the X-Bow competitively on the racetrack.


KTM X-Bow is officially ready to go racing for real. KTM has introduced an FIA-homologated “Race” version of the ultralight roadster that’s upgraded based on KTM’s experiences this past racing season. Pricing starts at €82.900; customer deliveries start in January ’09. The X-Bow trounced the competition in the GT4 European Cup series, taking the top three places in the Sports Light class as well as helping Christopher Haase to claim the GT4 Sports Light title.

The X-Bow took on other lightweights in GT4, including Lotus and Donkervoort, and the experience resulted in about thirty modifications to the road car that are incorporated into the Race version. Most of the changes are safety-related: steel rollbars replace the aluminum ones, the mudflaps are extended, and there’s additional side-impact protection both for the exposed wheels and the driver’s compartment. A six-point harness, quick-fill fuel nozzle, dry battery and fire-suppression system are also installed. The X-Bow Race is built to the same safety standards as open-wheel and ALMS racers.

Working changes to the X-Bow Race include racing semi-slicks, track brakes and pads, a racing catalytic convertor, the removal of some extraneous body parts like the license plate holder and front fins, and a low-profile windscreen. KTM will also offer upgraded parts, including track brake discs, adjustable front and rear anti-roll bars, air jacks, a 2D data logging system with display and racing mirrors. The turbocharged 240ps Audi four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual transmission are unchanged.

KTM also plans to offer a Customer Racing Service (CRS), which will provide a support crew, spares (excluding crash damage) and engineering support for any driver at the wheel of an X-Bow. KTM hopes to help make racing more accessible to owners, as well as increasing the popularity of and competition in the Sports Light category. KTM’s single-make X-Bow Super Sport Cup series is scheduled to start in Europe in 2009.

Technical Data

• Bodystyle: Mid-engined two-seater open extreme sports car
  
• Chassis: Carbon composite monocoque with transverse mid-mounted engine, rear-wheel drive and fully independent suspension
  
• Structure
  
• o Monocoque: Carbon composite construction
  o Torsional rigidity: 35000Nm per degree
  o Nosebox: Carbon construction
  o Rear subframe: Ultralight reinforced aluminium
  o Exterior panels: Carbon fibre
  o Underfloor: Ultra light carbon composite construction with rear diffuser
  
• Engine
  
• o Make: Audi TFSI
  o Type: Turbo-charged, 4-cylinder petrol with direct fuel injection
  o Capacity: 1984 cc / 2.0-litres
  o Bore & Stroke: 82.5 x 92.8 mm
  o Max power: 240 ps (177 kW) at 5500 rpm
  o Max torque: 310 Nm (229 lb ft) from 2000 to 5500 rpm
  o Valves: 16 (4 per cylinder)
  o Materials: Cast iron block, aluminium alloy cylinder head
  o Emissions class: Euro 4 compliant
  
• Transmission: 6-speed manual
  
• Suspension
  
• o Front: Fully independent double wishbones with twin push-rod operated concentric coil spring/damper units (adjustable) mounted on top of the monocoque, Anti-roll bar
  o Rear: Fully independent double wishbones with concentric coil spring/damper units (adjustable), Anti-roll bar
  
• Brakes
  
• o System: Hydraulic (unassisted)
  o Front: Brembo 305 mm ventilated discs with 4-piston fixed calipers
  o Rear: Brembo 262 mm ventilated solid discs with 2-piston fixed calipers
  
• Wheels & Tyres
  
• o Front: 17 x 7.5 inch alloys with 205/50 tyres
  o Rear: 18 x 9.5 inch alloys with 235/40 tyres
  
• Performance
  
• o 0-80 km/h (0-50 mph): 2.86 sec
  o 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): 3.90 sec
  o 0-120 km/h (0-75 mph): 5.27 sec
  o 0-140 km/h (0-87 mph): 6.61 sec
  o 0-160 km/h (0-99 mph): 8.51 sec
  
• Lateral Acceleration / Speed
  
• o Racing: 1.8 g max
  
• Top speed: 220 km/h (137 mph)
  
• Braking to standstill (warm brakes)
  
• o 100-0 km/h (62-0 mph): 32.9 metres
  o 160-0 km/h (99-0 mph): 77.9 metres
  
• Aerodynamic Performance - Downforce
  
• o at 100 km/h (62 mph): 48 kg
  o at 200 km/h (124 mph): 193 kg
  
• Dimensions
  
• o Length: 3738 mm
  o Wheel base: 2430 mm
  o Width : 1900 mm
  o Height: 1205 mm
  o Dry weight: 825 kg
  

Images : KTM X-BOW Race Model





[Source : KTM]
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• Designed by Renault Design America Latina - the design center of Renault in Brazil Sand'up concept car Concept is presented at the Salon de Sao Paulo on October 27.
  
• Sand'up Concept is based on Sandero Stepway, vehicle "urban sports" launched in Brazil in October 2008.
  
• Sand'up Concept Coupe is a versatile 2 2 combines the pleasure of cabriolet at the convenience of pick-up.
  
• For this study style, Renault shows once again the attention to the new trends on his car in various markets worldwide.

SAO PAULO : October 27, 2008 - Sand'up Coupe Concept is a versatile 2 2. Coupe, convertible or pick-up, Sand'up concept is transformed according to the wishes of its passengers. Derived from Sandero Stepway - a vehicle "urban sport" only available in Brazil and Argentina, Sand'up Concept "discovered" and allows its 4 passengers to enjoy a trip to convertible. The concept car is distinguished by its two poles of aluminum roof, from the flag before and extending to the rear lamps. In folding rear seat, Sand'up Concept is pick-up. Finally, Sand'up Concept can also become a cut by positioning its "hard top" red on the pole.


With its gray color effects, Sand'up Concept evokes sophistication and strength while the various inserts red underline the sportiness of the vehicle. The front of Sand'up Concept and differs from that of Sandero Stepway by a red bull bar integrated front bumper. At the rear, two exhaust outlets are trapezoidal in shape to ski integrated protective red. This

bright color is also an elegant border flow throughout the vehicle and separated into two parts. The more fluid design of the upper differs from the more robust lines of the lower part: wheel marked bavolets and 18-inch aluminum wheels. These rims five categories - involving the shiny black to gray lead and the red-caliper brake give a decidedly sporty look to Sand'up Concept. The optical front and rear receive a black mask projector, enhancing sportiness Sand'up Concept.

On the inside, we find the spirit of modernity and sportsmanship that emerges lines outside of the vehicle. Two shades of gray are giving mixed contrast and movement within that concept car. The red details (like the seat) combine harmoniously gray of the dominant carrier. Aluminum inserts on broadcasters and the seats combine again refinement to sportiness.

Sand'up Concept: intelligent solutions

To meet the multiple uses of this vehicle, Sand'up Concept enjoys many innovations. In pick-up configuration, so that the dump offers the flexibility to transport various objects, Renault Design America Latina has created a clever mechanism which lengthens the floor of the vehicle (up to 40 cm). Then presents the bowl 1.7 meter long for a loading capacity of 500kg, to transport motorcycles, jet skis, bicycles or surfboards. But the dump may also close with a black hard cover to protect the loading of weather. Finally, access to the rear is made by the "clamshell" (found on Renault Koleos), whose opening is done in two stages.

The configuration is obtained easily cut through the roof rigid "hard top" to be fixed manually through strong attachment points. The whole is very harmonious, consistency between the design of the "hard top" and that the body had been particularly careful.

Other systems simplifying the life of the driver and passengers. At the rear lights use LEDs to replace traditional light bulbs, which increases the level of visibility at night. On the sides, the traditional exterior mirrors have been replaced by two small cameras. The images captured by these cameras are transmitted to a LCD trapezoidal installed on the dashboard which is also a GPS (Global Position System). For easy access to the vehicle, opening doors is a Elytra through an electro-hydraulic system, a mechanism similar to that used on Laguna Coupe Concept. The doors are glass: the driver and passengers have a full side and enjoy a remarkable brightness inside the cabin. Even within the versatility remains the highlight of Sand'up Concept. The two front bucket seats slide on rails. Two small bags are integrated into the front seat and can be removed and used as a bag or suitcase.

With Sand'up Concept, Renault shows once again the attention to the new trends on his car in various markets worldwide.

Designers Renault Design America Latina were influenced by the market pick-up, and the "sport chic", both very present in Brazil. Buy fundamentally emotional and irrational, the pick-up is essentially sought to Brazil to its look. Furthermore, Brazilians are attracted by vehicles "sport chic", an expression of a sportsmanship and urban youth.

Images : Renault SAND'UP Concept





[Source : RENAULT]
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BERLIN : October 26, 2008 - Automaker Porsche said Sunday it had boosted its stake in Volkswagen AG to 42.6 percent as part of its goal to take a majority hold in Europe's biggest car maker before the end of the year.


Porsche Automobil Holding SE was already Volkswagen's biggest shareholder, with just over 35 percent, and said this month that its stake had increased, without giving an exact figure.

Porsche said it wanted to announce its holding now, given the ongoing turbulence on financial markets. It also said it held an additional 31.5 percent in cash-settled options, that would give it indirect control of 74.1 percent of VW shares.

"The goal remains, as long as the financial conditions are right, to increase (the stake) to 75 percent in 2009 and clear the way for a controlling stake," the Stuttgart-based company said.

As part of that goal, Porsche said it was sticking to plans to lift its VW stake above the 50 percent mark before the year's end.

Porsche has slowly been increasing its stake in VW, which enjoys a special status in Germany under a law that allows the state of Lower Saxony, where Volkswagen is based, a blocking minority right although it holds a stake of just over 20 percent. The European Union has sought to overturn that law, which effectively protects the automaker from being taken over.

The head of Volkswagen's employee council reacted angrily to Porsche's announcement, saying that VW's bylaws stipulate that an 80 percent stake is needed to reach a controlling stake.

"Even if Porsche always disputed it, it was clear that their goal was a profit transfer and controlling stake," said Bernd Osterloh said in a statement.

[Source : Associated Press via Business Week]

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TOKYO, October 27, 2008 - Mitsubishi Motor Corporation (MMC) and its motor sports subsidiary MMSP have entered an all new turbodiesel Racing Lancer (FIA Group T1 Super Production Class) for Portugal's Baja Portalegre (Thursday October 30-Sunday November 2), round six of the 2008 FIA Cup for Cross Country Bajas.



The all-new Racing Lancer will be driven on the Portuguese event by Team Repsol Mitsubishi Ralliart's Stephane Peterhansel (France) and loyal co-driver Jean Paul Cottret (France), with whom Peterhansel has shared all his cross-country rallying successes on four wheels. Peterhansel won six Dakars on two wheels before switching to cars in 1999. Since joining Mitsubishi in 2002, the Frenchman has claimed three further Dakar victories with different iterations of the Pajero/Montero Evolution (in 2004, 2005 and 2007) to become one of the annual marathon's top stars.

To boost power output at all engine speeds, the new Racing Lancer's diesel engine is equipped with a two-stage turbocharger which calls on small and large turbines in accord with engine speed and load. In addition, the team's partner Valeo contributed to the development of a particularly efficient cooling system to cope with the hot climates frequently encountered in cross-country rallying. The 3.0-liter V6 powerplant delivers maximum power of more than 280ps (206kW) and peak torque of 66.3kgm (650Nm). The new car's more aerodynamic body styling is derived from that of the production-model Lancer Sportback*1 in order to cope with the increasing speeds of cross-country rally events.

Other differences compared to the previous car include reduced weight thanks to a new, fully-integrated multi-tubular steel frame, and a lowered positioning of the fuel tank for a lower overall center of gravity. Handling has been further enhanced by the reduced moment of inertia resulting from the revised location for the spare wheels, as well as by significant modifications to the suspension geometry. Performance on rough terrain has been improved, thanks to BOS dampers which can be adjusted through a wider range of settings.

The Team Repsol Mitsubishi Ralliart-run Racing Lancer is equipped with Valeo-developed lighting and Brembo brakes with 16-inch ventilated discs and six-piston calipers all around. Mitsubishi's new cross-country rally challenger sits on 7JJx16 OZ aluminum alloy wheels and BFGoodrich low rolling resistance competition tires (245/80-16).

Images : Mitsubishi Racing Lancer






[Source : MITSUBISHI]
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GOTHENBURG : October 27, 2008 - Volvo Cars has engaged world-famous Swedish glassworks Orrefors in the work with the company's next concept car, which will be a first taste of the next-generation Volvo S60. The joint creation, a floating centre stack of hand-made Orrefors crystal, will be shown for the first time at the Detroit international motor show in January 2009.


In the concept car, the graceful, crystal-clear centre stack forms a gentle, calm wave from the instrument panel all the way to the rear seat backrest.

"It almost looks like a waterfall from the instrument panel, flowing through the centre of the car," says Volvo Cars design director Steve Mattin.

The crystal panel appears to float above the centre console's smart functionality. It rests softly on rubber pads and with the help of invisible light sources the crystal's shimmering glow can be tailored to match the driver's mood.

"If you want to explore the full scope of Scandinavian design, Sweden's glassworks are a natural source of inspiration. Large glass areas are also very much part of modern Swedish architecture, creating the special, light transparency," says Steve Mattin.

He adds: "In a concept car, you are able to release your imagination and creativity. Our iconic, super-thin centre stack was the perfect subject. We reinterpreted it and gave it a refined new form. Then it was up to Orrefors to use their superb skill to transform our exciting vision into reality."

Handicraft down to the tiniest detail


The experts at Orrefors were keen to accept the challenge and the result is one of the most unusual and handicraft-intensive objects in the company's 110-year history. Producing the stack was in itself a challenge beyond the ordinary - even for the experienced experts at Orrefors.

Traditionally, the moulds for the crystal are first chiselled by hand from thick planks of alder wood. After casting, the glass is carefully polished to produce its final, crystal-clear lustre.

"The undulating, slightly twisted shape and the precise dimensional requirements were two exciting challenges we had to face. Crystal is a living material, shaped by living people. We are not used to working with tolerances of tenths of a millimetre. What is more, we're talking here about an exceptionally large piece of glass," explains Orrefors design manager Gunilla Arvidsson.

Crystal-like future plans


In order to meet the relevant strength standards, the finished piece consists of three sections joined together at the Volvo Cars concept car workshops.

"The full-size crystal piece in the concept car will not be a production feature. However, it does open up opportunities to use crystal on a smaller scale in the future. We'll have to see how our customers respond," says Steve Mattin.

Creativity and functionality

Although the material in the centre stack radiates uninhibited artistic freedom, the functions that are integrated have been thought through in every single tiny detail.

• Beside the driver's seat, the crystal console cuts straight through the instrument panel and its upper section forms a navigation screen at the precise height of the driver's combined instrument.
  
• At the bottom, the four iconic rotating controls protrude from elegant matt-polished recesses in the glass panel. In the middle there is a removable remote control.
  
• The gear selector has a versatile new shape. In the horizontal position it offers drive in automatic mode. If the driver is in the mood for sporty manual gearchanges, the lever can be flipped up into the vertical position. Beside the gear selector there is also a starter button and parking brake.
  
• The centre console runs all the way to the rear seat backrest, and under the crystal panel between the individual seats there are two drinks holders that slide elegantly forward when required.

"We've put the focus on ergonomics and safety. With the combined instrument at the same height as the navigation screen, all it takes is a horizontal eye movement to switch between sources of information. Another example is that the controls used when you start and stop driving are a few centimetres from each other near the gear selector," explains Steve Mattin.

Mutual inspiration

At the Volvo Cars design centre, exploring the glassworks in the deepest forests of southern Sweden has been a stimulating adventure.

"The clean lines of the Orrefors products have been a true source of inspiration for many years. This was perfect timing for using crystal as a material in a concept car too," says Steve Mattin. For the Orrefors glassworks, the debut as a supplier to the car world has also served as a new creative inspiration.

"Volvo's thin centre stack is an industrial product with an artistic yet at the same time functional form. It immediately inspires you to think of other application areas. Why not an elegant hanging ceiling light or a table-top ornament of some sort? We'll just have to see," says Gunilla Arvidsson.

[Source : VOLVO]
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HOCKENHEIM : October 26, 2008 - In front of the DTM record crowd of 165,000 fans, the Hockenheimring Baden-Württemberg was the scene of a heart-beat finale.



At 3.02 pm, fireworks accompanied Audi driver Timo Scheider on his final metres towards the finish line and towards his most important title in motorsport to date, the 2008 DTM champion. After a perfect race with an excellent start, tactically planned pit stops and a margin of 3.062 seconds after 37 laps, the 29-year old could hardly believe his luck. “This is the most important day of my life in motorsport. I thank my family and my team. To my son, I want to say: ‘Loris, I love you’“, said the emotional winner. Audi’s motorsport director Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich was also excited and already planned his activities for the evening: “Tonight, we will have a party, and a good one.” For Scheider, it eas his third win in his 88th DTM race in seven years. Scheider’s main rival Paul di Resta from Scotland finished second. The Mercedes-Benz driver closed up to the new champion until the final lap, but couldn’t overtake him and thus became runner-up, both in the race and in the final points’ standings. Third place went to British driver Jamie Green (Mercedes-Benz). DTM record champion Bernd Schneider (Mercedes-Benz) ended his 237th and last DTM race in sixth place.

The final started with a bang. Scheider had an excellent start and took the lead from third on the grid. Pole sitter and fellow Audi driver Mattias Ekström from Sweden stayed ahead of the di Resta, who was now third. On lap three already, the Scot overtook Ekström, who eventually came home seventh, and started catching up Scheider. But although di Resta was up to seven tenths of a second faster at times, strong nerves and a tactical masterpiece enabled Scheider to retain his position and to secure the winner’s trophy for 2008 in the most popular international touring car series. The race was attended by numerous VIPs like Reiner Calmund, Sven Ottke and Mika Häkkinen.

There is also reason to celebrate for two more drivers. Audi driver Mike Rockenfeller was the best-placed driver with a year-old car in the DTM final and ended up ninth. British driver Gary Paffett had scored the best results over the season with a used car and got the prize for the best-placed driver with a year-old car.


In the final standings of the 2008 DTM, Timo Scheider is first with 75 points from di Resta (71) and Mattias Ekström (56 points), the 2007 champion. In the teams’ classification, the title went to Mercedes-Benz Bank AMG with 109 points from the Audi Sport Team Abt (102).


Timo Scheider (2008 DTM champion, Audi Sport Team Abt): “This is the most beautiful day of my life in motorsport. The final lap was full of emotions, a feeling one can hardly describe. I have also thought about the guys in my team, who have put in a night shift today to get my car ready. And, of course, about my family. They have witnessed how I have been thinking every second of the past few weeks only about this race. I have wished nothing more than this title and I didn’t want to loose it in the last race. Now, I would rather be standing somewhere at the back and realise what I have achieved. I knew how difficult it would be and therefore, I had put everything at the start. That worked out fine. I have a hard time behind me and I thank Dr. Ullrich, who has given me a chance at Audi.”


Paul di Resta (2nd place, AMG Mercedes): “Of course, first of all, I want to congratulate Timo. We have made a strong comeback during the season, but unfortunately, we just weren’t strong enough. It was not nice that Mattias Ekström tried to push me off the track twice. But I am happy with second place as well. Moreover, I can be back again next year and do one better. But now, all this is finished and tonight, we will have a party for Bernd Schneider before he retires.”


Jamie Green (3rd place, Salzgitter AMG Mercedes): “Also from me congratulations to Timo for this well deserved title. I am quite happy with my results, but with two wins in one season, one also wants to battle for the title. In today’s race, Mattias Ekström has made the way clear as he blocked Paul di Resta and I just went through. Later on, I backed off, because I wanted to give Paul the best possible chance to attack Timo.”

Audi-Motorsportchef Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich: “There were ups and downs. Yesterday, Timo damaged his car while hopping over the kerbs, which is not the best way to start into the decisive race. In front of this great crowd, the situation was really tense, and of course, we wanted to stage a great performance. Timo had it all in his hands to decide it all himself. He succeeded and that makes him a worthy champion who has done an excellent job against the strongest rival one can imagine. Here, we have established a new record crowd and that underlines the status of this championship. Nevertheless, we will soon sit down and see what we can still improve.”

Mercedes-Benz motorsport director Norbert Haug: “I am genuinely happy for Timo as he has had a really hard time. Timo is a good and amiable guy and a worthy champion, but one couldn’t have said much else about Paul. But I am also happy with this season and with our performance, the spectators got to see a great final. Paul’s car was slightly damaged after the collision with Mattias Ekström. But it is hypothetic to guess what could have been without that problem. We have claimed the silver medal for drivers, but the gold medal for teams and with our C-Classes we have scored more points than our rivals. We can be proud of that and we will celebrate it. We really have been fighting hard for it.”

Final round of the DTM at Hockenheim : Race result


Driver Championship Standings :


Constructor Championship Standings :



Images : DTM - 2008 Final Round - Hockenheim








[Source : DTM]
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• SEAT achieves the overall victory in the FIA World Championship for the first time and the first world title of a diesel-engined car in the history of motor sports.
  
• SEAT does also secure the drivers' world title since two of their drivers, Muller and Tarquini, will be fighting for the World Championship in Macau.
  
• The victories achieved today in Japan with two different car models, the petrol WTCC and TDI WTCC, were the key for the final triumph

MARTORELL : October 26, 2008 - As the final highlight of an excellent season, SEAT has become 2008 World Touring Car Champion today, at the Japanese racetrack of Okayama



SEAT's triumph in the manufacturers' standings, is moreover the fulfilment of a pending subject for Spanish motor sports, since an award like this had never been attained before. The Spanish make has mathematically secured the manufacturers' and drivers' title, since only two drivers of SEAT, Yvan Muller and Gabriele Tarquini, have chances to become world champions in the last race to be held in Macau on 16th November.

The Spanish make, which takes part in the championship with a team of five official drivers, Jordi Gene' (Spain), Tiago Monteiro (Portugal), Yvan Muller (France), Rickard Rydell (Sweden) and Gabriele Tarquini (Italy), has counted on the Leo'n TDI WTCC, the best car of the championship that has been able to clinch 11 victories so far.

The penultimate round of the World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) staged today on the Japanese racetrack, allowed SEAT to achieve the necessary points to secure the title mathematically, with excellent wins in both races that proved their technological ability. Rickard Rydell won the first race on the Okayama racetrack at the wheel of the Leo'n TDI WTCC and Tom Coronel succeeded in the second race with the petrol-engined Leo'n WTCC.

The finishing touch of this fantastic season for SEAT will take place on the urban racetrack of Macau on 16th November with the proclamation of the name of the driver to become Drivers' World Champion.

Jaime Puig, SEAT Sport Director: "The excellent teamwork of all people working at SEAT Sport, both those making up the race team, as well as all those who support us from Martorell, has been the key for this success. I want to say a big thank you to all of them, because it was their working capacity and their team spirit that has allowed us to achieve such an significant success".

Images : SEAT : 2008 World Touring Car Champion






[Source : SEAT]
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BANGKOK : October 25, 2008 - Hino Motors has pledged to invest substantially in Thailand to reflect that the country is the Japanese truck and bus maker's most important overseas manufacturing base and biggest marketplace.


"From now on, capital, equipment, technology and human resources will be pouring into Hino's Thai unit in line with its international business expansion plan," said Yoshio Shirai, the new president of Hino Motors Japan.

Speaking in Bangkok during a visit to Hino's Thai operations, he said the company planned to invest up to 200 million baht retooling its production line to make trucks that can run on compressed natural gas (CNG).

As well, Hino Motors Manufacturing (Thailand) Co has been designated as Hino's regional manufacturing base for export. Additional machinery and technology will be available to support the production of medium-sized trucks for exports throughout the region.

Hino currently runs three factories, two at Samrong and Bang Phli in Samut Prakan and one at Bang Pakong in Chachoengsao. The facilities are Hino's largest production base outside Japan.

Last year was the first year that Hino's overseas sales of 65,000 trucks and buses exceeded those in the local market, which totalled 50,000. Overseas sales are forecast to exceed local sales again this year and Hino is aiming for total sales worldwide to reach 200,000 units by 2015.

Average sales of Hino trucks and buses in the Thai market alone over the past six years accounted for 19% of its total exports worldwide.

Yoshinori Noguchi, president of Hino Motors Sales (Thailand) Ltd, said Hino aimed to sell 7,500 trucks and buses in the Thai market this year, representing 41% of the total market projected at 18,300 units.

Sales are projected to increase to 8,700 units next year, of which 2,700 units would be CNG trucks to be launched early next year and the remaining 6,700 units diesel trucks and buses.

Total truck and bus demand in 2009 is expected to reach 21,000 units, a 15% increase from this year driven mainly by CNG-powered vehicles, while demand for diesel vehicles would be steady. Of the total, 3,000 units would be CNG trucks made by Hino and other brands, and the remaining 18,000 units would be diesel-powered.

Mr Noguchi admitted that high diesel prices, the uncertain political outlook and higher demand for CNG conversions were negative factors for the truck and bus market through the third quarter.

Sales of trucks and buses from January to September this year dropped 16% year-on-year to 13,436 units. Hino truck sales in the first nine months fell 18% year-on-year to 12,916 units but its market share rose by three percentage points on stronger bus sales of 520 units, up 70% from the year before.

Mr Shirai said the FM and FG models of Hino tractor trucks with 260 horsepower would be the first CNG models made in Thailand starting next April.

Hino also plans to export Thai-made trucks to India.

[Source : Bangkok Post]
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Bangkok : October 24, 2008 - Automobile production to grow 10% next year. Automobile output should increase 10% next year, according to the director of the Thailand Automotive Institute, Vallop Tiasiri.


Vehicle production should reach 1.5 million units next year from 1.43 million units this year, as export growth is expected to push production expansion.

Exports next year should reach one million units, an increase from this year's forecast of almost 800,000 units, he said.

''However, growth in the domestic market will not be as exciting as local political conflict holds back consumer confidence,'' Mr Vallop said.

This year, the industry's total output is expected to increase 10% to 1.43 million units from 1.29 million last year.

The export market claims 56% of vehicle output and that market should grow over 20% this year while the domestic market is expected to have less than 10% growth. Next year, exports will have a 60% share.

''It is important to notice that even in a slow economy or during the crude price crisis, our automobile industry has never stopped growing,'' he said. ''This is because we are competitive and able to launch new products in time to satisfy market demand.''

He expects the one-tonne pickup to remain a bestseller next year and hopes the new eco-cars will be a trendy choice for fuel-efficient consumers. The first eco-cars will be available next October.

''That is the period when manufacturers will be able to benefit from excise tax privileges, so whichever manufacturer can serve the eco-car market first will have the advantage,'' he said.

Manufacturers remain tight-lipped on their eco-car development, but Toyota, Nissan, Mitsubishi and Honda already have their plants ready.

''Suzuki is done with land purchasing but has not yet set up their plant while the Indian-based Tata Motor is still looking for land,'' Mr Vallop noted.

The institute is preparing to train 100,000 skilled labourers to serve expansion into eco-car manufacturing.

Thai Auto Parts Manufacturers Association (Tapma) president Prasartsilp On-Aht led members in a meeting with Industry Minister Pracha Promnok to call for training support. The automobile industry employs over 300,000 workers.

Another 100,000 personnel should join in the next seven years when eco-car production should be at full capacity.

''The personnel should come from new graduates and workers from other industries,'' Mr Prasartsilp said.

Mr Vallop also expressed confidence that the industry's earlier goal to produce 1.8 million units by 2011 is achievable, despite the global economic slowdown.

''This forecast is possible as the downturn in the global economy and domestic political problems were taken into consideration at the time of evaluation,'' he said.

[Source : Bangkok Post]
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BOLOGNESE : October 25, 2008 - Automobili Lamborghini has today announced The Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo – the world’s fastest one-make series. The series will debut in May 2009, and feature Lamborghini’s Super Trofeo: a lightweight version of the Gallardo LP 560-4 super sports car launched earlier this year. The Super Trofeo will come with a reworked chassis, significantly reduced weight of only 1300 kg, and power output of 419 kW (570 hp) from its V10, ‘Iniezione Diretta Stratificata’ engine. Lamborghini has a clear objective to ensure the Super Trofeo is the fastest one-make series in the world.


The race car will feature Lamborghini’s permanent four-wheel drive, making the Super Trofeo the only one-make, all-wheel drive motorsport series. Lamborghini will build cars for a 30-strong grid, available to individual professional and ‘gentleman’ drivers, as well as Lamborghini dealer teams. One factory car, reserved for celebrity ‘guest drivers’, will be included in the line-up at each round.

“We’re delighted to announce The Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo,” said Automobili Lamborghini President and CEO Stephan Winkelmann. “Both on-track and off, our championship will reflect the Lamborghini brand, with extreme, high performance racing and stylish and luxurious trackside facilities. This gives our Lamborghini clients, as well as professional and gentleman racing drivers looking for a new challenge, the opportunity to experience Lamborghini in the ultimate driving environment.”

The first competition of the 2009 provisional calendar will run on 3 May at Silverstone Circuit in the UK, followed by Adria in Italy on 17 May; Nuremburg’s Norisring in Germany on 5 July; Spa in Belgium on 2 August; Barcelona’s Circuit de Catalunya in Spain on 20 September; and culminating on 4 October in Monza, Italy. At Monza in ‘the world’s fastest one-make series’.

With the Swiss watchmaker as title sponsor, The Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo will run over European race weekends alongside other prestigious series such as the FIA GT Championship, DTM and FIA WTCC (World Touring Car Championship). Either one or two drivers can register for each three-day race weekend, comprising of free practice and qualifying sessions, and three 40-minute races during Saturday and Sunday. The results of the three races are added together: no success ballast is added to winning cars, and the cars cannot be modified during the season.

The Super Trofeo car and parts package is offered at 200,000 euro plus tax and entry fee, via Lamborghini dealerships, with support and parts trackside. The prestigious ‘Lamborghini Village’ will provide a luxurious paddock package in true Lamborghini style, for drivers, sponsors and guests.

The Super Trofeo car

The Super Trofeo race car is based on the Gallardo LP 560-4, powered by the new 5.2 litre V10 direct injection ‘Iniezione Diretta Stratificata’, engine, generating an increased output of 419 kW (570 hp). Its power flows through the e.gear six-speed robotized gear box to the permanent all-wheel drive with viscous traction.
The Super Trofeo is a top-class race car in every detail. Its chassis, featuring double wishbone suspension all round, has been reworked specifically for the purpose. The slick tyres are supplied by Pirelli and a specialist racing brake system provides brutal stopping power. The race car weighs in at only 1,300 kg dry, despite its additional safety cage. Additional body components such as the large, fixed rear wing are made from carbon-fibre composite. The cockpit includes ultra-light racing seat, racing steering wheel and specialized instruments.

Images : Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 Super Trofeo Series Launch Hockenheim @ October 25, 2008




Images : Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 Super Trofeo - Studio Shot




[Source : LAMBORGHINI]
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BRENTWOOD, Essex : October 23, 2008 – Ford is to introduce the sporty Zetec S badge to its acclaimed Focus line-up for the first time.



This new addition to the UK's best selling car range is now available in Ford dealerships and is based on the existing Zetec model but with the addition of a full sports styling kit, of front and rear spoilers with lower sill extensions, 17in alloy wheels, aluminium-style foot pedals and hand brake cover, and an exclusive "S" badge on the front fender.


The Ford Focus Zetec S is available in three-door and five-door versions and is offered with the same wide choice of engines as the existing Focus Zetec with the addition of a 1.6 Ti-VCT 115PS petrol unit. Other available engines are the 1.8 125PS and 2.0 145PS petrol units and the diesel 1.8 TDCi 115 PS, 2.0 TDCi 136PS, and 2.0 TDCi 136PS with diesel particulate filter (DPF) which can also be specified with Ford's acclaimed six-speed PowerShift automatic transmission.


The Ford Focus Zetec S is priced just £750 above the equivalent Zetec derivative, which represents outstanding value, as separately, the additional features are worth over £1,600.


Two optional styling packs are additionally available. The Sport pack (£500) includes 18in alloy wheels and privacy glass, and the WRC pack (£200) includes World Rally Championship 'chequered flag' decals and WRC scuff plates.



[Source : FORD]
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BOLOGNESE : October 24, 2008 - A private ceremony was held today at the Viminale Palace where Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. donated a police version of the company’s newest super sports car, Gallardo LP560-4 Polizia, to the head of the Italian State Police, Prefect Antonio Manganelli.



The new Gallardo LP560-4 Polizia, which replaces the previous Gallardo in use by the Italian police force since 2004 has a 560 horsepower engine that can reach speeds of up to 203 mph. The car will begin service with the Lazio Highway Police Department in order to continue accident and crime prevention to sustain security on the Italian roads.

Proof of outstanding reliability


Its predecessor is proof of Lamborghini’s outstanding product quality. Since 2004, Rome’s police force has had the first-generation Gallardo in regular police service. The sports car has clocked nearly 87,000 miles of patrol duty on the motorways of central and southern Italy, as well as on emergency medical transport detail.

A second Gallardo, painted in blue and white police colors, has been in service around Bologna, Italy since 2005. Its odometer already shows more than 62,000 miles. Aside from regular servicing, neither of the super sports cars has required major repairs.

In addition to the clearly effective deterrent offered by the presence and visibility of a Lamborghini on the highway, the technological equipment on board these vehicles makes them highly effective in the control of hazardous behaviour on the roads (high speeds, driving in the emergency lane, dangerous over-taking); the automatic recognition of number plate tracking and real-time transmission of images to the control rooms.

High-tech video system with real-time retrieval

The cabin of the super sports car is fitted with the latest advancements in police technology to immediately document the evidence of any transgression. The video system is positioned in the center of the cabin with a camera fitted next to the rear view mirror and a computer and recording equipment behind the seats. As soon as police officers discover a suspicious driver, they activate the “Proof Video Data System.” With the help of GPS data, the device can calculate the location, direction of movement and speed of the Lamborghini. This combined with the distance and time before intercept, accurately determines the speed of the vehicle being pursued.

Using radio data transmission, the video system in the Gallardo Polizia transfers its images in real time to the relevant police station. There, the videos are stored and used for automatic number plate retrieval. This information can be used for immediate identification of stolen vehicles.

The “classic” array of police equipment on board too

In addition to its high tech equipment, the Gallardo is also fitted with the “classic” array of police equipment, such as a gun holster, police radio equipment and the “Paletta,” the traditional hand-held stop sign used to advise motorists and traffic offenders to pull over. Officers can then use a removable screen to show offenders their misdeeds immediately, complete with an overlay of all the associated data.

Rapid response in medical emergencies

The Lamborghini is used regularly for urgent medical transportation too. The luggage compartment in the front of the vehicle is equipped with a specialized refrigeration system for safe transportation of donor organs. For extreme emergencies, there is also a defibrillator used to restore a normal heart rhythm to patients by delivering an electrical shock to the heart to stop massive cardiac arrhythmia or ventricular fibrillation, and thus save lives.

Officer training

The 30 police officers permitted to drive the Gallardo Polizia receive special training in the use of the Gallardo’s medical equipment. Each person on the special operations team – which includes three women – has undertaken several days of driver training with Lamborghini, under the leadership of the Lamborghini test drivers. The basis of trouble-free everyday operation is the exceptional safety of the Gallardo LP560-4 with its permanent all-wheel drive and its refined chassis, which maintains stability even at the highest speeds. Lamborghini’s extremely high standards for product quality and reliability ensure that the Gallardo LP560-4 Polizia is always ready for duty.

Even the blue light is designed for speed

Now the successor is ready – a new generation Gallardo LP560-4 with the very latest in special equipment. The Lamborghini wears its uniform with pride, painted in accordance with requirements in “blu Polizia” – whereby the white stripes and lettering follow the Gallardo’s dynamic design angles. Its main patrol beat will once again be central and southern Italy, primarily on the motorway between Salerno and Reggio Calabria.

The police beacon on the roof of the Gallardo had to be aerodynamically optimized being that the new police car reaches a considerably higher top speed than regular service vehicles.. Despite the extremely flat construction of the signal lighting, blue LEDs are fitted round the base to ensure the visual signal cannot be missed. The roof-mounted lighting is supported by further blue LED signals on the front, sides and rear of the light’s aluminium shell. A total of four sirens integrated into the front and rear of the Gallardo generate unmistakable audible warning signals.

On duty even in New York

Just like its predecessor, the new Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Polizia is destined to be not only the fastest, but also the most famous police car – even beyond Italian borders.

The Italian State Police uniform, and the unquestionable attraction of the Lamborghini brand, continue to arouse curiosity and interest. Thousands of citizens have the possibility to see the car for themselves during the many events organized to promote the vehicles in use.

Alongside its daily operational duties, the Gallardo also has regular public appearance obligations, such as its role as parade leader every year in Rome’s traditional “Festa di Polizia,” or its escort responsibilities at events with historical vehicles, like the Targa Florio and the Milan – San Remo Rally. Its predecessor even represented the Italian police in New York City at the 2005 “Columbus Day” parade.

Images : Italian Police's Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4





[Source : LAMBORGHINI]
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SEOUL : October 24, 2008 - Hyundai’s president believes his firm’s future lies in MPVs and more derivatives of its existing models.


Kun-Hee Ahn, chief of the Korean firm’s European operation said: 'The world is currently a very unfriendly place for SUVs. For us the future has two directions. We will do more MPVs: our smaller B and C segment i20 and i30 will each have a people carrier version built on their platform.' The i30 MPV, reportedly very close to the i-Mode concept (pictured right) from earlier this year, is expected to be unveiled in 2010. A vehicle based on the newly launched i20 supermini will follow it.

Ahn added: 'We don’t think the future is in opening new niches. We’ll let other companies do that. We will offer people more choice with our existing cars. So each model will have a larger number of engine sizes and trim levels.' As part of this, the firm will have a warm hatch version of its i20 with a 128bhp 1.6-litre diesel engine to compete with the forthcoming Skoda Fabia vRS.

Is Hyundai being hit by the curernt economic climate?
Despite the global downturn Hyundai and sister company Kia still have ambitious sales targets. Ahn claimed: 'Currently our world-wide sales are just below four million annually and we want to sell six million cars a year by 2010 – and make money on those we sell. We think it’s possible because we’ll achieve growth through emerging markets such as India.'

Hyundai is also to launch a replacement to its Sonata saloon, the i40, next year but hasn’t yet decided on its BMW 5-Series rival, the i50. Ahn said: 'In America (where the i50 is called Genesis) we are stealing customers from Mercedes, BMW and Lexus. But people aren’t as brand sensitive there. Here if we price a car at more than 30,000 Euros (£23,600) customers can’t handle it so we still have some thinking to do.'

Images : Hyundai i-Mode MPV Concept





[Source : CAR Magazine On-line]
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According to Inside Line, who was lucky to test drive the new roadster 2010 Nissan 370Z . These are 2 illustrated images of its external details.




The powertrain of the new Nissan 370Z Roadster will be shared with the 3.7 litres-VQ engine from the G37 coupe,that makes 330-hp output with 270 lb-ft max. torque. The seven-speed automatic and a six-speed manual transmission will be offered, same as G37.

The new Nissan 370Z roadster will debut early next spring at the 2009 New York Auto Show.

[Source : INSIDE LINE]
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Subaru Technica International (STI) founded to commemorate the 20th anniversary, incorporating its own season with Subaru Impreza WRX STI "STI 20th Anniversary" special specification to set the car, it sells simultaneously via the Subaru chain store of entire country from October 23rd.


Impreza WRX STI "STI 20th Anniversary", based on the Impreza WRX STI with superior driving performance-based improvements to the car's sporty. Meanwhile, the interior and exterior changes to minimize the equipment, the only rider STI got a taste of their own pictures expresses the additional equipment by model and price rises are subdued.

The damper and the coil spring where STI tunes attenuation quality, installing the STI individual flexible tower bar and the rear suspension link etc of pyro ball type on the chassis . In addition to the exterior, made and fitted 18-inch aluminum wheels, painted matte black. Only the interior of the front seats made by Recaro, the dark gray color switch panel , STI logo uses, such as red engine starter, ownership made a dramatic appeal.

Subaru Impreza STI 20th Anniversary is priced at 4,126,500 yen and will be limited to 300 units.

Images : Subaru Impreza WRX STI 20th Anniversary Limited Edition







[Source : STI]
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LONDON : OCTOBER 23, 2008 - Today at the Science Museum Lord Drayson, Minister of State for Science and Innovation, launched The BLOODHOUND Project, a three-year mission lead by Richard Noble OBE to create a land speed record car capable of achieving 1,000mph.


BLOODHOUND SSC (super sonic car) will be driven by Wing Commander Andy Green who set the current record of 763mph (1228kmh) at the controls of ThrustSSC on 15th October 1997. If the new vehicle achieves its target of 1,000mph (Mach 1.4) it will mark the greatest incremental increase in the history of the World Land Speed Record; it will also exceed the low altitude speed record for aircraft (c.994mph).

Building a car quicker than a fighter jet is not, however, the primary goal of the project. Rather, it is to inspire future generations to take up careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics by showcasing these subjects in the most exciting way possible. This supports the DCSF’s new three year cinema and television campaign due to be launched later in November which will demonstrate the breadth and variety of careers open to science and maths students.

Unlike all other forms of motorsport, there are virtually no restrictions imposed on the design of a land speed record challenger; each car is a bespoke creation. It therefore means that BLOODHOUND SSC technology and research can be shared with the public, as it is unlikely to provide an advantage to any other team – in stark contrast to, say, Formula 1.

As the ultimate, unlimited racing car, BLOODHOUND SSC will also be the catalyst for a raft of cutting-edge research in fields such as aerodynamics, computational fluid dynamics, materials technology, composite manufacturing and sustainable high-tech engineering.

The numbers generated by initial studies, conducted in secret over the past 18 months, give some idea of the challenges ahead.

The 12.8m long, 6,422kg (fuelled), jet and rocket-powered vehicle will be more advanced than most spacecraft and faster than a bullet fired from a handgun. Its 900mm diameter wheels will spin at over 10,000rpm, generating 50,000 radial g at the rim. The car will accelerate from 0 – 1,050mph in 40 seconds and at V-max (maximum velocity), the pressure of air bearing down on its carbon fibre and titanium bodywork will exceed twelve tonnes per square metre. At this speed, Andy Green will be covering a distance equivalent to over four football pitches every second, or 50m in the blink of an eye.

Designing, building and running BLOODHOUND SSC will be a unique engineering adventure, one that will be shared with the public every step of the way. Eleven years ago, the ThrustSSC website became one of the most popular in the world; The BLOODHOUND Project aims to surpass this. The Project will also make full use of channels such as YouTube, Twitter and other social networking sites to keep a global audience up to date with every breakthrough, set back and triumph. The Project launch will be followed by a week-long exhibition at the Science Museum, London, where the public can meet the team.

The prime objective of The BLOODHOUND Project is to create an unprecedented education and engagement programme, lead led by a dedicated team of teachers and education specialists. From innovative, curriculum based lesson plans covering subjects ranging from geography to citizenship, as well as science, technology, engineering and mathematics, to a schools visitor centre featuring the ‘classroom of the future’ at the team’s HQ in Filton, Bristol, the aim is to make BLOODHOUND SSC accessible to all ages from 5 – 19 and beyond.

The BLOODHOUND Project is a private venture. Government is part funding the three year education programme but not the build and running costs of the car. These costs will be covered by sponsorships. Founder sponsors include Swansea University, STP, Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, Serco and the University of The West of England.

The BLOODHOUND Project is an iconic adventure that will push technology to its limit. In trying to set what research suggests may be the ultimate land speed record, a team of British engineers, designers, mathematicians and technologists hope to tell a new story of science that will fascinate and inspire all those who hear it.

Minister of State for Science and Innovation, Lord Drayson, said: "Breaking world land speed records is no longer about strapping an engine onto a buggy and pointing it at the horizon. Today, the application of new and exciting science and technology is the only way to achieve such results. If BLOODHOUND SSC is to reach its target of Mach 1.4, equivalent to 1,000 miles per hour, the team behind it will need to solve some ambitious challenges in science, engineering and maths. From constructing the largest hybrid rocket motor ever built in the UK, to making major advances in sensor technology and designing wheels to cope with these incredible forces. Britain has a wonderful heritage of rising to the challenge and this exciting project will see that continue.

“This project is not just about the bragging rights to the world land speed record. This will result in tangible scientific developments that will benefit all, for example in areas such as fuel efficiency and safety and which could be used in the cars we drive in the future.

“The development of BLOODHOUND SSC from the drawing board to a 1,000mph reality will be open for all to see at every stage. The project’s involvement with young people is vital to inspire them about the exciting things that can be achieved by science and engineering. Ultimately, I hope that this iconic British project will encourage the next generation of scientists and engineers as we will depend on them to find the solutions to everything from climate change to growing population pressures."
Lord Drayson said:

“There has never been anything like BLOODHOUND SSC before,” said Richard Noble OBE, Project Director. “It is undoubtedly the most stimulating and challenging programme I’ve ever been involved with. The next three years are going to be tough, testing and damned exciting!”

Andy Green said:
“I’ve met graduate engineers who are adamant that our previous record was what inspired their career choice as youngsters: that sort of thing makes all the effort worthwhile. BLOODHOUND SSC will be so much faster and, we hope, will fire up every school kid about the science and technology. We’re going to invite everyone to follow our adventure in this, the most exciting and extreme form of motorsport – the World Land Speed Record. Both as a Mathematician, and as a Royal Air Force Fighter Pilot, I can’t think of anything better.”

Images : Bloodhound SSC




[Source : Bloodhound SSC]
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MILTON KEYNES : October 23, 2008 - Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has released prices and specifications for the exciting new Caddy Sportline and Caddy Maxi Sportline models announced last month, which along with the existing Transporter Sportline panel vans and five-seater kombi, expand Volkswagen’s stylish Sportline range to five models.


Volkswagen’s Sportline range is designed for customers who want a van that stands out from the crowd and creates a dynamic and premium image, with swift performance to match.


The new Caddy and Caddy Maxi Sportline vans were unveiled by Simon Elliott, Director, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, at an exclusive preview at Volkswagen’s Milton Keynes head office yesterday, and are due to arrive in Volkswagen Van Centres in November. The first public opportunity to see the Caddy Maxi Sportline will be at its official show debut on the Volkswagen stand at Interbuild 2008 at the NEC from 26 to 30 October

The exterior enhancements for the Caddy and Caddy Maxi Sportline mirror the good looks of their Transporter Sportline siblings with chrome side rails and front grilles, lower front spoiler with integrated fog lights, rear roof spoiler, body-coloured bumpers, mirrors and door handles, plus unique 17-inch six-spoke alloy wheels with Sportline centre logo.


The interior is a bit special too, with the luxury of bespoke black Italian leather upholstery with red stitching, microperforated red centre panels and an embroidered Sportline logo, plus electric windows, ‘Climatic’ air conditioning, a radio/CD and electrically operated and heated door mirrors.

A six-speed gearbox and top-of-the-range 140 PS, 2.0-litre TDI PD diesel engine delivers impressive performance with the flexibility provided by 320 Nm of torque from 1,800 to 2,500 rpm. The Caddy Sportline can sprint to 62 mph in 10.1 seconds and the Caddy Maxi Sportline in 10.5 seconds, both with a top speed of 116 mph.

Both models are available in a choice of three paint colours – Tornado Red or optional Reflex Silver metallic and Diamond Black pearl effect paint – with basic retail prices (excluding VAT) starting from £17,000 for the Caddy Sportline and £18,280 for the larger Caddy Maxi Sportline.

[Source : VOLKSWAGEN]
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TOKYO : October 23, 2008 - Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. announced today it will initiate a large-scale community-based test of its Intelligent Transport System (ITS), integrating cellular communications with vehicle telematics to help prevent pedestrian-related accidents. The pilot project will be conducted in Atsugi, Kanagawa Prefecture for a two-month period from November 1 to December 27.


This represents the first and largest such experiment conducted of its kind, involving 500 pedestrians and 200 drivers, and in collaboration with NTT DoCoMo Inc, the largest mobile network operator in Japan. Participants will use a special cellular phone that is compatible to the Nissan navigation system on-board test vehicles, and simply go about their regular daily routines, commuting within the neighborhood.

Nissan first began the basic test of the system in April 2007. By conducting a large-scaled community-based trial with real-world data-tracking, Nissan is moving beyond the initial basic testing towards a commercially-viable system.
ITS Test Scheme

Scheme of community-scale test


How the system works
As a vehicle is approaching a residential city area where many blind intersections exist, the driver can be alerted of a pedestrian hidden around the corner, by voice message and screen display via the navigation system. This is possible as the information server detects data transmitted via GPS (Global Positioning System) to the cellular phone carried by the pedestrian and sends it to the vehicle navigation system, which then triggers the alert. The system assists the driver to take precautionary measures and drive more carefully, which can help to reduce pedestrian-vehicle collisions.

Scope of the pilot project
Period: November 1 to December 27
Venue: Tobio, Miharuno and Matsukagedai in Atsugi, Kanagawa Prefecture
Sample: 500 pedestrians, 200 drivers

The pilot aims to achieve two objectives:

1) Verification of the effectiveness of the system to support safer driving
Nissan will monitor the changes in driver-behavior, such as the response time and deceleration after the alert, for quantitative analysis.

2) Optimization of data-processing logic
Nissan will test the data-processing logic, based on a sophisticated software program, which can determine a pedestrian on the street, by identifying the data sent from the cellular phone carried by the pedestrian and calculating the speed of the moving-target.

Statistics*1 have shown that 30% of fatal accidents involve pedestrians. Nissan's safety vision is to halve the number of accidents involving Nissan vehicles resulting in fatality or serious injury by 2015 compared to 1995.

*1: Japan National Police Agency

[Source : NISSAN]
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• Vehicle-to-vehicle communication helps to avoid accidents
  
• GPS and WLAN enable effective monitoring of the traffic environment

RUSSELSHEIM/DUDENHOFEN : October 22, 2008 - The second international forum, the CAR 2 CAR Communication Consortium (C2C-CC) is demonstrating for the first time worldwide vehicle-to-X communication independent of manufacturer or vehicle-type. Opel is hosting the event at the GM Dudenhofen Test Center in Germany.


Preventing accidents by warning drivers about potential danger from other vehicles was a major goal during the development of the new General Motors/Opel C2C (car-to-car or vehicle-to-vehicle) communication systems. Vehicles equipped with this technology can communicate with each other and exchange information such as location and speed. Drivers can then be warned in advance if another vehicle is stopped in an area that is difficult or impossible to see, or about to enter the same intersection as they are.


“Driving is a very complex task. Knowing where the other guy is and where he’s headed can be as critical as being in control of your own vehicle,” said Hans-Georg Frischkorn, Executive Director, Global Electrical Systems, Controls and Software. “With C2C technology, we intensify the driver’s awareness of his environment to improve road safety, without any distraction to him and certainly without reducing his level of control. This sixth sense lets drivers know what’s going on around them to help avoid accidents and improve traffic flow.”

For these systems, GM/Opel uses proven, reliable components that are part of everyday life. The hardware consists of a microprocessor, GPS receivers (Global Positioning System) and Wireless LAN modules. The vehicles establish communication within a few hundred meters of one another and exchange information such as location, speed, acceleration and direction of travel.

Today, vehicles can be equipped with multiple safety sensors, including radar-based sensors connected with speed control devices, lane change assistance systems or sensors to detect objects in a car’s blind spot. GM/Opel can increase the operating range and coverage of individual sensors significantly with its comprehensive technology - a more effective and affordable way to provide extensive observation and assessment of the surrounding traffic conditions.

Demonstration with typical driving situations



GM/Opel engineers demonstrate the new technology’s advantages with a range of practical exercises. Several functions help prevent the rear-end collisions that occur on a daily basis due to poor visibility, twisty roads or short lapses in driver concentration. For example, the system warns of a stationary vehicle on the road even before the driver behind can see it, for example around a corner. Depending on the situation, the system transmits these warnings visually, acoustically or through vibrations in the driver’s seat.

In another scenario, a collision warning system improves safety while approaching intersections. Even if there is no visual contact between the drivers of two vehicles, the system detects any collision danger in advance and alerts both drivers if they need to intervene, for example by braking. Work zones or emergency vehicles can also transmit signals to drivers if a lane is closed or a path needs to be cleared.

Goal: Wide availability for as many vehicles as possible
GM/Opel has deliberately based this technology on inexpensive, proven components, giving it the potential to become standard equipment in many vehicles. The alternative would be to offer extremely expensive high-tech systems for just a few cars, but as Hans-Georg Frischkorn says: “GM/Opel has always been committed to democratizing innovations. Our C2C systems are affordable and could potentially be used in every vehicle class. That’s especially important because cooperative systems like these become more effective when many vehicles are equipped with them.”

[Source : GM - Opel]
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The provenance of a singular vehicle, built to the exacting standards of Mercedes McLaren, the creators of world championship-winning Formula One racing cars, this SLR is the only one built for the United States. Legends are created by a combination of unrivalled performance, technological leadership and exclusivity. The Mercedes McLaren SLR Roadster follows the lineage of the Mercedes-Benz 900 SLR racing car, which triumphed at the 1955 Mille Miglia endurance race and forever imprinted this historic racing victory on the brand Mercedes-Benz.


The Mercedes SLR McLaren Roadster underscores the racing tradition with its 206 mph top speed, 617 horsepower supercharged V-8 engine and carbon fiber body with scissor-type articulated doors. No other roadster on Earth combines this level of technology and performace - and no other SLR will match the singular model.

The Mercedes McLaren SLR Roadster completes its limited production with this unique SLR Roadster. With carbon fiber bodywork finished in bespoke SLR Sienna Pearl metallic paint and composition Tobacco Brown leather interior, only one SLR in this combination is destined for the United States.

Owning this unique vehicle, the final production SLR Roadster for the United States, will make a statement to automotive enthusiasts for years to come.

This vehicle will be available in an exclusive online auction on November 20, 2008 from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm EST. The vehicle's price is $529,500 with any and all funds raised above and beyond donated to St Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Performance and Design Highlights

Sienna Pearl Super Metallic Paint - This unique finish is reserved for this single SLR Roadster and has metallic elements which are three times the size of traditional metallic paint and give this SLR a radiant brown metallic finish with deep metallic copper undertones.

Composition Leather - Complimenting the SLR exterior finish, is an interior of equal beauty. The Tobacco Brown composition leather interior exudes performance for the driver and passenger and compliments the exterior finish.

Wheels and Brakes - Fitment of 19-inch SLR wheels with special brake system, accented with gold brake calipers, completes the exterior design with a technical statement hinting at this vehicle's incredible performance.

Vehicle Specifications

Total displacement: 5,439 cc
Horsepower: 617 at 6,500 rpm
Torque: 575 lb-ft at 3,200-5,000 rpm
Acceleration: 0-62 mph in 3.8 seconds
Top speed: 206 mph
Wheels, front: 9.0 x 19
Wheels, rear: 11.5 x 19
High-performance tires, front: 255/35 R19
High-performance tires, rear: 295/30 R19

MSRP: $529,500.00

[Source : DAIMLER]
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STUTTGART : October 23, 2008 – Mercedes-Benz is introducing the C 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY featuring second generation direct fuel injection as the fourth BlueEFFICIENCY model in the C-Class. Compared to the current C 350, the new saloon consumes more than ten percent less fuel. At the same time, the innovative V6 engine delivers 15 percent more power and already meets future EU5 emission limits. As such, the new Mercedes-Benz C 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY combines driving pleasure, safety, economy and environmental compatibility in a package which is exemplary for a vehicle in this class.


At the heart of the new Mercedes-Benz C 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY, which is available to order immediately, is the world’s first petrol engine with spray-guided direct injection. It produces 215 kW/292 hp and a maximum torque of 365 Nm. This is 15 kW/20 hp and 15 Nm more than the current V6 engine with port injection. Thanks to its innovative combustion system with piezo injection and a particulary efficient gearshift program the C 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY consumes 8.3 litres of premium grade fuel per 100 kilometres in the European driving cycle, with CO2 emissions of 193 g/km. This figure is more than 1.4 litres less than the value attained by the current C 350 and already meets future EU5 emission limits.

In addition to greater economy and environmental compatibility, the new C 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY also affords an impressive driving experience: it accelerates to 100 km/h from a standstill in 6.2 seconds, while its top speed is limited electronically to 250 km/h.
The C 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY will be available as no-cost options with “Elegance” equipment, or as the sporty “Avantgarde” variant. Besides the extensive range of equipment fitted as standard, the saloons feature an AMG spoiler lip on the boot lid, a dual-flow exhaust system with polished stainless steel tailpipe trim, seven-speed 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, 16-inch light alloy wheels (17-inch wheels also available at no additional charge), speed-sensitive steering and also “SPEEDTRONIC” cruise control with variable limit speed.

As well as the exciting design and refinement for which Mercedes is renowned, the new model of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class also features the latest, state-of-the-art technology. This includes for example the AGILITY CONTROL package with situation-responsive shock absorber control, the Intelligent Light System with five different lighting functions and the PRE-SAFE® preventive occupant protection system. Since the official market launch on 31 March 2007, well over 400,000 customers have opted for a model in this series. As such, the multi-award-winning C-Class has become the world’s market leader in its segment.

The price of the C 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENGY is 46,796.75 euros (incl. VAT).

[Source : DAIMLER]
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MARTORELL : October 22, 2008 - SEAT certified excellent results in the month of September in terms of the number of vehicles registered with emission levels equal to or lower than 120 g/km. These results are proof of the Spanish brand’s implication and commitment to preserving the environment by manufacturing vehicles with reduced CO₂ emissions.


According to the “greencar monitor” report developed by TNS, with a figure of 1,149, the SEAT Ibiza tops the ranking of registered vehicles with emission levels equal to or lower than 120 g/km. With 1,704 units, SEAT is the brand with the second highest number of registered vehicles within the same emissions level category.

SEAT has had a very positive sales evolution to date, and is currently in fifth place in the global calculation of brand sales for the January-September 2008 period with a total of 14,296 vehicles registered.

Furthermore, the excellent sales results obtained by the Ibiza in September are joined by the evolution of the SEAT León. Totalling 532 units with emissions equal to or lower than 120 g/km registered, the León is in eighth place in the overall standing. The year to date figures include 9,332 registered units for the SEAT Ibiza and an amazing 4,707 for the SEAT León, both with the same emissions figure category.

Despite the current hardships in the automotive industry, the so-called “greencar” segment (vehicles with emissions levels beneath 120 g/km) has achieved a 19% market share in the first nine months of 2008, up by seven points over the 12% share achieved last year.

[Source : SEAT]
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In its efforts to improve safety for everyone, especially vulnerable road users, Honda's leading motorcycle to car communication system is being demonstrated for the first time in Europe at the CAR 2 CAR Communication Consortium event taking place at the Opel Test Track in Dudenhofen, Germany, from 22-23 October 2008.


The system generates warnings to riders and drivers of other vehicles by continuous exchange of positioning data from satellite GPS sources. This is particularly relevant as road users approach intersections, alerting them to other vehicles that are potentially on a collision course, allowing avoidance manoeuvres.

The demonstration will exhibit the interoperability of the Honda life-saving system which facilitates communication with vehicles from 8 other manufacturers.

European research data shows that the majority of accidents involving a motorcycle are caused by perception failures and this system will reduce these failures.

The development of inter vehicle communication is part of Honda's ongoing approach to safety for powered two-wheelers. This approach tackles Preventive, Active and Passive safety. The resulting technologies in the field of preventive safety include the Motorcycle Riding Simulator and the Riding Trainer, both of which are used for hazard perception training. The introduction of the world's first motorcycle airbag on a Gold Wing in 2006 was a landmark in safety. This year's release of the first ever electronically controlled Combined ABS for Super Sports motorcycles provides enhanced braking capability in a wide range of road conditions and a step forward in the field of Active Safety.

Vehicle to Vehicle (V2V) Systems Development by Honda
Honda has developed this technology within the ASV (Advanced Safety Vehicle) programme in Japan, and is currently participating in projects in Europe, Japan and the United States. In Japan, Honda is now in phase 4 of its ASV development. This ASV-4 system uses a wireless communication unit to ascertain the position and direction of cars and motorcycles in relation to each other, and provides drivers with information on approaching vehicles and obstacles on the road. This follows the introduction of ASV-3 technologies in 2005, and ASV-4 has built on extensive research, data collection and collaboration in advanced safety technologies.

What is Vehicle-to-Vehicle Communication?
V2V communication rapidly relays information in a simple and concise manner, which supports motorists' and bikers' recognition processes. Information including position, direction and vehicle dynamics coordinates is exchanged between vehicles. Motorcycle riders can safely receive warnings about vehicles near them on a Head-up Indicator Display, and can receive information through an in-helmet audio system, neither requiring them to take their eyes off the road. Drivers can view information on the status of cars and motorcycles in their vicinity and receive warnings on, for example, their navigation system display.


Honda Advanced HMI
The effectiveness of a Vehicle-to-Vehicle and Vehicle-to-Infrastructure communication system largely depends on the HMI concept - the interface between the rider and his machine. Based on extensive research, Honda has developed for the Car 2 Car demonstration a simple, logical and intuitive HMI for faster and easier recognition. Both a visual and an audible warning are provided in safety critical situations. The visual HMI is located on the upper edge of the motorcycle dashboard, as close as possible to the line of vision, enabling the rider to spot the information and warnings easily without actually having to take his eyes off the road. The intensity, colour and the position of the lights provide intuitive information on the seriousness and the location of the danger ahead. To augment the riders' recognition and further specify the hazard ahead, an acoustic warning by means of spoken text is given in the helmet, which is connected by means of Bluetooth? communication link with the on-board system. This advanced HMI contributes to enhanced motorcycle safety.






Motorcycle Accident Characteristics.
Motorcycle safety requires special consideration, due to the particular nature of motorcycle accidents. Both the causes and the consequences of these are different to those of accidents involving only cars. The majority of motorcycle accidents are caused by the simple failure of other motorists to detect the presence of a motorcycle on the road until it is too late, or to correctly assess its distance and speed. There are several reasons for this.

Firstly, the front profile of a motorcycle is significantly smaller than that of a car or truck. Not only can it be more easily overlooked, but it can also be obscured by larger vehicles or street furniture. Its smaller size can also be more easily camouflaged by its surroundings. For example, a motorcycle can be completely hidden behind a car's A-pillar for a limited amount of time on the approach to a roundabout.

Secondly, motorcycles are more subject to errors of perception and judgement of distance and speed. This is related to their smaller size and also to certain disadvantageous characteristics of motorcycle lighting systems. Honda is also addressing this through Conspicuity Enhancement Designs, with proven success in helping car drivers to better estimate both distance and speed of motorcycles.

Statistics
In 1999, an EU funded research project (Motorcycle Accident In-Depth Study or MAIDS) investigated the underlying causes of motorcycle accidents. The researchers were a consortium of partners including, among others, ACEM (The Motorcycle Industry in Europe), FIM and FEMA (rider organisations at international and European level).

Data was collected on 921 motorcycle accidents occurring in 5 European countries. It was found that 88% of the accidents were mainly caused by human error, while 8% were due to external environmental factors such as weather conditions or road infrastructure. In 37% of cases the motorcyclist was the cause of the accident, while in 50% of cases the driver of the other vehicle was responsible. A breakdown of this 50% showed that: 72% were so-called 'perception' failures, where the driver failed to see the motorcycle, 3% were 'comprehension' failures (they saw the motorcycle but the brain did not recognize it as such), and 20% were 'decision' failures (they saw the motorcycle but decided to continue with the intended manoeuvre anyway).

The problem of visibility and awareness of motorcycles on the road clearly needs to be addressed.

How can V2V communication help?
The MAIDS research also looked at the most common motorcycle accident configurations. Almost 35% of these were down to two main configurations:

• Accidents at an intersection, where the colliding vehicles were following perpendicular paths;
  
• Left-turn accidents (right-turn in the UK and Ireland), where two vehicles approach in opposite directions and where the other vehicle cuts across the path of the oncoming motorcycle.

The diagrams below illustrate how Vehicle-to-Vehicle communication operates in these two typical situations:


In the above situations, the V2V communication system may compensate for errors of perception or momentary lacks of concentration. The system is also being tested in situations where human senses do not necessarily register reliable data. One example is in the blindspot that remains invisible in a rear view mirror check. Another is the approach of an emergency services vehicle where a siren can be heard but determination of its position, speed or direction is difficult. An additional case would occur when a driver sees a motorcyclist in the mirror but has difficulty judging closing speed and distance, especially at night or in poor weather conditions.

Honda and the Car 2 Car Communication Consortium
Honda believes that by demonstrating its advanced safety technologies, a common approach to safety can be achieved for all road users.

The CAR 2 CAR Communication Consortium is a non-profit organisation initiated by European vehicle manufacturers, and is open for suppliers, research organisations and other partners. The CAR 2 CAR Communication Consortium is dedicated to the objective of further increasing road traffic safety and efficiency by means of inter-vehicle communications. Honda has been researching Vehicle-to-Vehicle communication systems for more than a decade, both independently and in joint research projects in Japan and the USA. To improve motorcycle safety in Europe, Honda became a full member of the CAR 2 CAR Communication Consortium in 2005, with the clear objective of integrating the motorcycle within the CAR 2 CAR system. The common objective of the participating bodies is to develop common interoperable standards for all vehicles, including motorcycles, and ultimately to introduce a standard C2C CC system into the European vehicle market.

Honda's own innovations
The research into vehicle-to-vehicle and infrastructure communication systems is yet one more step in the development of new technologies for enhanced comfort and safety. Previous innovations and world-firsts by Honda are, for example, the world's first car navigation system, which can be found nowadays in many vehicles; collision mitigation braking systems which initiate occupant restraints and the brakes in pre-collision situations; lane keeping assist systems in cars in Europe; intelligent night vision systems recognising pedestrians; and the first floating car data system from a car maker in the Honda Internavi navigation system.

[Source : HONDA]
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The new Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S opens up astonishing dimensions when it comes to open-top driving. Delivering 478 kW/650 hp, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and a maximum speed of 335 km/h, this two-seater cabriolet surpasses the existing benchmark among open-top super sports cars - the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster. Both vehicles feature a fully retractable folding soft top capable of withstanding the high speed and are made of carbon fibre. This endows both models with a very high degree of safety and extreme torsional stiffness. (see full details)


This limited edition of 150 examples is predominantly hand-built at the Formula 1 workshops of McLaren in Woking, England, and is available from January 1, 2009.

Images : Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722S






Images : Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722S .. First released




[Source : DAIMLER - McLAREN]
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JOHANNESBURG, South Africa : October 22, 2008 - On October 15, the 1.6 HDi 308 sedan bvm6 broke a new record in South Africa, traveling 1,689.7 km on a single tank. The 308 has performed with an average consumption of 3.4 l/100 km, Coast2Coast Challenge linking the city of Kleinzee (on the west coast of South Africa, north of Cape Town), the city of Umhlanga , Near Durban, on the east coast.



Peugeot took on the challenge of Coast2Coast Challenge to demonstrate the environmental efficiency of the 308. Peugeot has also chosen to put this challenge under the sign of carbon neutrality. Thus, Peugeot has committed to planting trees corresponding number of carbon emitted during this challenge. The estimate is made by the Global Carbon Exchange and the trees will be planted on the site of Orange Farm, south of Johannesburg.

The famous 308 Coast2coast will be exhibited at the booth of the exhibition Peugeot Johannesburg from October 30 to November 9 2008.

[Source : PEUGEOT]
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DETROIT : October 22, 2008 - The Detroit News reports that the Renault-Nissan alliance is proposing to acquire around 20% of Chrysler LLC and bring the Auburn Hills automaker into the French-Japanese automotive partnership. The offer is now before private equity firm Cerberus Capital Management LP, which also is in talks with General Motors Corp. about its Chrysler holding.


Sources familiar with the discussions...said Tokyo-based Nissan would acquire the stake because it has cash on hand, whereas Renault now has debts of more than $5 billion. Nissan and Chrysler already have several joint projects in the works, with Nissan planning to produce small cars for Chrysler and Chrysler scheduled to make the next generation Titan full-size pickup for Nissan. Chrysler and Nissan managers say the teams work well together.

But another source close to the talks has told The Detroit News that Cerberus founder and CEO Stephen Feinberg favors a deal with GM, viewing it as the best solution for the embattled U.S. auto industry. Under the scenarios being discussed with GM, the automaker might absorb its smaller rival or establish it as a subsidiary, with Cerberus expected to take a stake in the combined automotive entity. But these scenarios would require financing, which is hard to obtain in this economic environment.

Citi auto analyst Itay Michaeli estimated that the combined entity would need at least $10 billion to $12 billion of fresh cash.

[Source : Detroit News]
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SAO PAOLO, Brasil : October 21, 2008 - Fiat Automóveis will present at the 25th Salão Internacional do Automóvel, which is set to take place from 30 October up to 10 November in São Paulo, a brand new concept car, that has been dubbed the Bugster, and which has been totally developed by automotive engineering division of the Italian carmaking brand in Brazil.



Bugster is a vehicle that seeks to unite two concepts that are very relevant today, the environment and fun, as it is a rich mixture of ecologically-correct components as well as being a fun car to drive. Besides the futuristic design, the concept is fitted with a zero-emission producing electric engine, and its bodyshell is constructed using only natural fibres, renewable sources that have less impact on the environment, and nanotechnology to build lighter and more resistant pieces.

Fiat Automóveis' new Bugster vehicle project is a dramatic-looking starting point for the adoption of new solutions for mobility using alternative materials, commensurate with the philosophy of non aggression to the planet.

The bi-annually held Salão Internacional do Automóvel, now preparing for its 25th edition in 2008, is the most important event for the Latin American automotive industry, and this year it gains further prestige as it will make its debut in the OICA global motor show calendar, reserved for the most important shows. The event is expected to bring together some 30 global brands that will be showing off more than 400 individual models. Fiat Automóveis always presents a full model line up Salão Internacional do Automóvel and introducing a show-stopping concept car is nothing new either, during the last edition, held in 2006, the autonomous Brazilian division of Fiat Group presented the FCC Adventure, an original concept sports off-roader.

[Source : Italiaspeed]
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Continued from the latest post : The Design Challenge is part of the Design Los Angeles automobile designers' conference that has evolved into an integral element of the Los Angeles Auto Show. Entering its fifth year, Design Los Angeles provides designers with leading design speakers and the opportunity to address common issues. More than 500 designers attended last year's event.


"Motorsports 2025" is the concept of this year design challenge, there are 9 entries from automaker's design studios as followed :

Audi R25 - Volkswagen/Audi Design Center California



Audi introduces the R25, the latest prototype in its legendary racecar lineup. The inaugural Los Angeles round of the ALMS 2025 incorporates innovative features never previously seen in any form of motor sports, such as high-velocity banks and tunnels, which allow cars to race "inverted" and the opportunity to pass anywhere with aerodynamic racecars. All top sections of the tunnels and banks are also WiTricity wireless electrical charging zones, which encourage the drivers to utilize these free energy zones instead of fuel stops.

The R25 is designed to utilize and excel in this new racing environment, with features such as:
1) The new Dynamic Space Frame, allowing much greater degree of flexibility, integration of circuits and rigidity
2) Algae bio fuel for endurance and electric motor capability through Wireless power transfer technology
3) Audi Design: Staying true to the "Form is Function" philosophy, there is not an ounce of needless element in the R25, which incorporates advanced technique and efficient form management into one.

The car also uses: active micro-control surfaces which optimize airflow during the race; Man Machine Interface, which inputs all vehicle data output into the driver's helmet visor; all-around vehicle dynamic sensors and integrated on-board HD cameras with real-time data links to allow for spectator interaction, allowing fans to virtually "sit" and experience the race in any racecar through monitors and virtual reality booths.

Produced by: Audi Design Center California Claus Potthoff, Executive Design Director Hendrik Veltmann, General Manager Jae Min, Chief Designer Concept & Art: Craig Durfey, Senior Design Advisor Raul Cenan, Designer Taeho Kim, Designer Concept contribution & editing: Tomi Lin, Audi Advanced Product Planning Nancy Holman, Designer Alex Marzo, Design Intern

Images : Audi R25



BMW Hydrogen Powered Salt Flat Racer - BMW Group DesignworksUSA


"Do not wait for extraordinary circumstances to do good action; try to use ordinary situations." - Jean Paul Richter
BMW has designed a hydrogen powered sTitle flat racer based on the premise of Reuse (instead of recycle).

This concept utilizes existing, ordinary, and mundane materials, such as old oil barrels and barbeque lids, as main components for the body and wheel discs. Friendly, whimsical and sustainable, the concept employs goldfish as "co-pilots" or "canaries-in-a-coal mine" to ensure that the vehicle is running clean emissions (if your fish get sick, you must be running "rich"). The wheels are gel-nylon for necessary flex, allowing tires to be airless and re-vulcanized or re-treaded.

Design Team: President: Verena Kloos Director: Chris Chapman Creative Director: Erik Goplen Designer: Richard Kim Digital Modelers: Jason Rowlands and Blair Taylor

Images : BMW Hydrogen Powered Salt Flat Racer




GM Chaparral Volt - General Motors Advanced Design, California


Designed for the 2025 revival of the LA Times Grand Prix, the Chaparral Volt uses advanced EREV propulsion, energy collection, generation and management system to create an entirely new category of racing - the eco?triathlon.

The Chaparral Volt collects and generates its own energy from three different clean, renewable and abundant California resources: Earth, Wind and Fire.

Earth (Geologic) Gravity and momentum-capture regeneration and aero-thermal resistance provide astounding levels of braking efficiency in addition to active energy regeneration.

Wind (Aero-Thermal) Building on the legendary Chaparral 2J, the Volt utilizes rear turbine extractors for power cell cooling, down force and (in reversed direction) a combination of aero-assist braking and energy regeneration.

Fire (Radiant Sunlight) Integrated thin-film PV panels for the racer's body and team support unit takes advantage of Southern California's most abundant resource, the sun, and converts it for use as the Chaparral Volt's primary energy source.

Design Team:
Frank Saucedo, Steve Anderson, Thamer Hannona, Jussi Timonen, Loren Kulesus, Alessandro Zezza, Sean Moghadam, Tony Liu and Phil Tanioka
*"Chaparral" and the Chaparral logo are used under the permission of Jim Hall, Chaparral Cars

Images : GM Chaparral Volt




Honda's The Great Race 2025 - Honda Research and Development


In 1908, 17 men dared to take on the "toughest race ever devised." Spanning six months, the Great Race brought these men over 22,000 miles, through three continents and around the world. 117 years later, the Great Race of 2025 is tougher than ever.

Competitors must circumnavigate the globe in 24 hours on land through the United States, by sea through Asia and by air over Europe.

The vehicle's sonar/echolocation sensors are able to detect changes in speed, terrain, and Titleitude, allowing it to switch to any configuration. With expertise in automotive, marine, robotics, and jet technologies already in place, Honda possesses a distinct, competitive advantage over its rivals, allowing it to lead in the evolution of motorsports in the 21st century.

Design Team: Franco Corral

Images : Honda's The Great Race 2025




MAZDA KAAN - Mazda Research and Development


The MAZDA KAAN is an electric race car designed to compete in the E1 races, the pinnacle of international motorsports in terms of technology and popularity. In 2025, California freeways have been resurfaced with a sub-level electro?conductive polymer that powers the electric cars of the modern world. MAZDA's patented electronic tire system uses this technology to power the KAAN to reach 250 mph with no harmful emissions!

The vehicles are piloted by individual drivers but teams are made up of thirty cars, all on the track together. Using strategies similar to those in cycling peletons, the tighter the group sticks together, the more aerodynamic and powerful it becomes.

Inspiration for the KAAN comes from electric fields and textures seen in nature, particularly those in a lightning bolt. The car is uniquely designed around its
powerful electric wheels while the cockpit acts as a capsule to safely house the driver, allowing for tighter peloton formations and a team victory.

Design Team: Jacques Flynn Carlos Salaff Minyong Lee Greg Lee Tim Brown Jordan Meadows

Images : Mazda KAAN




Mitsubishi Motors MMR25 - Mitsubishi Research & Design of North America


Mitsubishi breaks from convention and introduces the MMR25.

While the look is shocking, the multi-terrain, omnidirectional wheels consist of eight independently-controlled motors, allowing for "8 x 4" wheel drive so that the car can be driven forward while pointing in any direction. The MMR25 drives sideways into a corner and points the nose of the car outwards before even reaching the apex of the curve while driving sideways or backwards.

The MMR25 also uses special Oblique Aerodynamics to give the vehicle aero advantages. The center wing acts as a spoiler, actuated by pneumatic and fabricated from Memory Metal Alloy while the front and rear spoilers double as suspension blades which are able to control stiffness and ride height.

Design Team: Jon Hull (design, surfacing, rendering and animation)

Images : Mitsubishi Motors MMR25




Mercedes-Benz Formula Zero - Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design of North America


Luxury racing arrives in the Formula Zero Racer by incorporating the thrill of Formula One, the track dynamics of the bobsled or luge, and the grace and efficiency of yacht racing.

Reminiscent of the Mercedes Benz racing heritage of the 1930's, the Formula Zero Racer is loaded with technology designed to extract the maximum thrust from the electric hub motors, aero-efficient solar skin and high-tech rigid sail.

Each team is allocated the same amount of stored energy and it is left to the teams and drivers to manage the variables to win the race. The winner is determined by total elapsed time combined with the energy efficiency factor.

Spectators at the Mercedes Benz Formula Zero racing Series are treated to a new dimension of racing as the transparent track is visible from all perspectives ?even from below!

Design Team: Alan Barrington George Yoo Kevin Verduyn

Images : Mercedes-Benz Formula Zero



Toyota Lemans Racer - CTitley Design Research, Inc.


Technological superiority and endurance creates the ultimate race car that never needs to stop. Not only is the racer powered by highly efficient hydrogen fuel cell electric motors, each of its body panels is embedded with photovoltaic panels that supply electricity when extra energy is needed.

The vehicle features two basic modes: High Speed Mode and Cornering Mode. In High Speed Mode, the body and wheels narrow, creating less drag and resistance to reach its highest speed of 350 mph. The Cornering Mode transforms the body to create a wide and stable stance with expanded wheels, establishing maximum contact and grip through tight turns.

To aid the driver in darkness or unreliable weather, the cockpit is a completely digital environment with a display enhanced by virtual reality, computer trajectory plotting, collision avoidance assistance and a robot co-pilot, which manages the on-board systems and repairs so that it can maintain full speed all the way to the finish.

Design Team: President: Kevin Hunter Studio Design Manager: Erwin Lui Senior Creative Designer: Craig Kember

Images : Toyota Lemans Racer




Volkswagen Bio Runner - Volkswagen/Audi Design Center California


The Baja 1000 now introduces the "One Tank Unlimited Solo Class." The only stipulations are one driver and one 10-gallon tank of fuel, forcing competitors to use every bit of technology, strategy, and wit to finish.

In the Bio Runner, the rider is positioned inside a protective cage on a motorcycle-like saddle with controls attached to the hands and feet. These controls manipulate all wheels via synthetic muscle-based suspension which offers unparalleled control and traction.

Much like a motorcycle this system allows the rider to lean into turns as well as shift the center of gravity by changing the position of the wheels in relation to the cab. This system offers an unparalleled degree of control and traction which ultimately results in much higher speed runs.

The vehicle is powered by dual-turbine engines that run at an ultra-efficient 500,000 rpm and operate on a patented bio-synthetic jet fuel.

The vehicle also boasts an Arial Reconnaissance Drone (AR-D) which feeds video to the driver when visibility is limited.

The Support Team Chopper transports, follows and in the event of a crash, swoops down to perform repairs. It also contains telemetry analysis software, which in the case of emergency, takes over piloting to avoid danger unseen by the driver.

Design Team: Derek Jenkins Patrick Faulwetter Ian Hilton

Images : Volkswagen Bio Runner




[Source : LA Auto Show - Design Challenge]
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CARLSBAD, CA. : October 21, 2008 - The entrants for the 2008 Design Los Angeles Challenge have been officially released, At the end of last month, Mitsubishi has introduced MMR25, the 2025 Rally racer. Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design Center of North America unveils the creature pictured calling the Formula Zero. Built around the theme of motor sports racing in the year 2025, the Formula Zero concept aims to combine "the thrill of Formula One, the track dynamics of the bobsled or luge, and the grace and efficiency of yacht racing."



Luxury racing arrives in the Formula Zero Racer by incorporating the thrill of Formula One, the track dynamics of the bobsled or luge, and the grace and efficiency of yacht racing.


Reminiscent of the Mercedes Benz racing heritage of the 1930’s, the Formula Zero Racer is loaded with technology designed to extract the maximum thrust from the electric hub motors, aero-efficient solar skin and high-tech rigid sail.


Each team is allocated the same amount of stored energy and it is left to the teams and drivers to manage the variables to win the race. The winner is determined by total elapsed time combined with the energy efficiency factor.

Designers:
Alan Barrington
George Yoo
Kevin Verduyn

[Source : DAIMLERS]
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• Beats New Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan in the Full-Size Pickup Category
  
• All-new 2009 Dodge Ram recognized by Texas journalists for utility, value and efficiency

GRAPEVIEN, TX. : October 20, 2008 - Voting after their annual Truck Rodeo, members of the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) named the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 "Full-Size Pickup Truck of Texas," giving Dodge honors over competitors from Ford, Chevrolet, GMC, Nissan, Honda and Toyota.


"This is quite an honor," said Mike Accavitti, Director, Dodge Marketing. "In a head-to-head competition, our game-changing all-new 2009 Dodge Ram un-seated the new Ford F-150, long considered the leader in the market. This is not only the best pickup truck we've ever built, it's the best pickup on the market, period."

TAWA's competition names three overall winners, including Truck of Texas, SUV of Texas and Crossover of Texas (a new category this year), along with 12 additional categories. Judging by the 40-plus TAWA members occurs over two full days of on- and off-road evaluation. Consideration is given to everything from exterior styling and off-road capability to the entrant's overall utility, value and fuel efficiency.

"The TAWA Truck Rodeo is the most comprehensive evaluation of new trucks and SUVs in the country and manufacturers consider it a great honor to win their category," said Harold Gunn, President of TAWA. "This was an especially tight competition because several manufacturers are building great product. We're proud that the Texas truck rodeo is considered the most important competition of its type in the nation."

The all-new 2009 Dodge Ram includes more than 35 new or improved features when compared to the previous light-duty Dodge Ram. These features include:

• Dodge Ram's first-ever crew-cab size model
  
• First-in-segment coil-spring, five-link rear suspension fitted to a solid rear axle provides the required towing and payload capability, with ride and handling unexpected in a pickup truck
  
• New 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 provides more horsepower (390 hp) and torque (407 lb.-ft.), with increased fuel economy (20 mpg on the 4x2 model)
  
• Best-in-class aerodynamics -- .387 Cd -- helps improve fuel economy and performance
  
• First-in-segment, RamBox cargo management system that includes versatile, weatherproof, lockable, illuminated, drainable storage bins; pickup bed dividers; 2-foot bed extender; and cargo rail system with sliding, adjustable cleats
  
• First-in-segment, factory-installed 4-inch dual exhaust styled dramatically into the rear bumper
  
• First-in-segment store-in-the-floor bins
  
• Nearly twice as many storage bins (42) than the previous model (26)
  
• 35 safety and security technologies, including standard front and rear side-curtain air bags, four-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
  
• Significantly upgraded interiors with segment-first surround-sound audio system and live SIRIUS Backseat TV^TM

Images : 2009 Dodge RAM














[Source : CHRYSLER]
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AACHEN, Germany : October 21, 2008 – A century after the Model T put the world on wheels, Ford Motor Company has announced the winners of a four-month competition that challenged five universities from around the world to create a revolutionary vehicle concept for the 21st century.



The only European university to take part – the ika (Institute of Automotive Engineering Aachen) from Aachen University, Germany – has won the challenge and $25,000 in scholarship funds for delivering an innovative concept that embodied the spirit of the Model T and best met the criteria of the challenge.

The core team at the ika, consisting of eight students and engineers, developed a concept which had to meet certain requirements set by Ford: the vehicle had to be simple, lightweight, practical, and durable, offering a range of at least 200 kilometers and be able to accommodate a minimum of two passengers. Perhaps the most challenging criterion was that the base target price should not exceed $7,000.

The result is a modular vehicle concept – the Model T for the year 2015 – with an estimated base price of $6,780.

The base model is a mini-size pick-up version of a three-seater, where the passengers are accommodated next to each other. With the driver's seat centrally located, there are no extra costs for right-hand-drive or left-hand-drive versions. Additional weight and costs can also be saved by making only the driver's seat adjustable.

The basic vehicle weighs just 800 kilograms when ready to run but without occupants. That weight would increase if the petrol engine is combined with an electric motor to become a full hybrid vehicle, or when it is converted into a pure battery electric driven car.
Whichever method of propulsion is specified for the vehicle, this will affect the cost. For example, an electric-only system will cost double that of the standard gasoline unit. The CO₂ emissions also vary between 54 and 100 grams per kilometre depending on the chosen propulsion system.

The simple flexibility of the frame structure allows for new derivatives to be developed without high investment. Through this, the concept complies with the requirement to adapt easily to different market conditions and customer demands. The vehicle even incorporates elements of Ford's European 'kinetic design' form language.

"We are very proud, as the only European institute, to have been able to participate in this exciting competition. Then to top it off with winning is not only very satisfying, but also confirms that German engineers and students have the capability to compete successfully on the international stage," said Professor Stefan Gies, managing director of the ika.

Aachen University, as well as the ika, have worked in close co-operation with Ford of Europe for many decades. In particular, they are working very intensively with the Ford Research Centre in Aachen, which is the only Ford research facility of its type outside the US. Charles Wu, the Managing Director of the Ford Research Centre congratulated Aachen University and said: "The high quality of their concept impressed us deeply and confirms that Ford of Europe has made the right choice in co-operating with such a strong and capable academic partner."

The Ford jury also named the Deakin University in Melbourne, Australia, as second winner.

[Source : FORD]
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• Test fleet reaches Los Angeles after 7,865 kilometers (4,887 miles)
  
• Audi Q5’s average fuel consumption is 6.1 liters per 100 kilometers (38.56 US mpg), A4 records 5.3 l/100 km (44.38 US mpg)
  
• Audi Q7 – powerful model with ultra low emission system

INGOLSTADT / SANTA MONICA : October 21, 2008 - The Audi Mileage Marathon, now completed, has provided convincing evidence of the efficiency of TDI engine technology. The fuel consumption of all 23 models in this 7,865-kilometer (4,887-mile) test was excellent. The best Audi A4 3.0 TDI quattro, for example, had an average fuel consumption of 5.3 liters per 100 kilometers (44.38 US mpg); the new Audi Q5 3.0 TDI performance SUV finished the test with a convincing 6.1 l/100 km (38.56 US mpg). In its first tough road test since it was announced, the Audi Q7 3.0 TDI with ultra low emission system performed outstandingly well: the world’s cleanest diesel scored a best average fuel consumption of 7.1 l/100 km (33.13 US mpg). The lowest consumption of all the cars taking part was the 4.7 l/100 km (50.04 US mpg) achieved by the Audi A3 2.0 TDI.


The 23 Audi models crossed the Mileage Marathon’s finishing line on Sunday in Santa Monica, near Los Angeles, after crossing the American continent from the east to the west coast. Since the start in New York, 184 drivers from 15 countries had taken the wheel in these cars, as they completed the total distance of 7,865 kilometers (4,887 miles) in 13 daily stages. The actual driving time for all these vehicles averaged 93 hours.

Participants were brought into close proximity with the sheer size and varied scenery of the USA. They encountered the vast open spaces of Illinois and Tennessee, the awe-inspiring natural splendor of Death Valley and Yosemite National Park, and of course the country’s great cities such as New York, Chicago and Las Vegas.

Fuel consumption based on typical road conditions

The route was a realistic combination of typical road and traffic situations. Long sections of highway Titleernated with stages on regular out-of-town roads. Stop-and-go driving in major cities was included as well as lengthy uphill and downhill gradients, for instance over 3,300-meter (10,826.77 ft) Rocky Mountain passes or in the Sierra Nevada.

As the route shows, the Mileage Marathon was not conceived as an extreme economy run, but as a practical test closely related to typical day-to-day conditions. Nor were the Audi models from the lower end of engine-output scale: many of them featured a combination of powerful three-liter V6 TDI engine, automatic transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive.

The extremely low fuel consumption figures recorded by the Marathon vehicles once again confirmed the remarkable efficiency of Audi’s TDI technology. Outstandingly good results across the field of entrants and from all the four Audi model lines taking part in the test – the Audi Q7, Audi Q5, Audi A4 and Audi A3 – began to be recorded on the very first stages, and were confirmed on each successive day. Measurement of the cars’ fuel consumption figures was supervised by an independent body, the US International Motor Sports Association (IMSA).

TDI technology – clean and ideal for future needs

The Mileage Marathon was the first tough practical test for the Audi Q7 3.0 TDI with ultra low emission system. This exhaust emission control system reduced oxides of nitrogen by up to 90 percent, and therefore complies with the toughest emission limits so far enforced anywhere in the world – California’s ULEV II BIN 5. It even outperforms the Euro 6 limits that are not scheduled for introduction until 2014. The three-liter V6 TDI is the world’s cleanest diesel and clear proof that TDI technology is the reliable approach for the future.

Each stage of the Mileage Marathon provided further evidence of the efficiency of this technology. The best entrants’ fuel consumption was in the region of 7.1 liters per 100 kilometers (33.13 US mpg), and other teams too recorded figures between 7.4 and 7.7 l/100 km (31.78 and 30.55 US mpg). These are most impressive results for an SUV with up to seven seats, quattro permanent all-wheel drive and outstanding power output (165 kW/225 hp) and maximum torque (550 Nm (405.66 lb-ft)). Series production of the Audi Q7 3.0 TDI with ultra low emission system will start before the end of this year, and its market launch is planned for 2009 in both the USA and Europe.

Supreme technologies from the modular efficiency system

The new Audi Q5 “performance SUV” surprised Mileage Marathon participants not only by the way it performed on the road with its 176 kW (240 hp) 3.0 TDI engine, and by the dynamic agility of its precision suspension layout. Its fuel consumption figures, with 6.1 liters per 100 kilometers (38.56 US mpg) as the best value, were even more remarkable. Another key to this apart from TDI engine technology is the outstandingly high efficiency of the S tronic 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The Audi A4 too is not only the sportiest midsize sedan but also convincing in its efficiency. Top fuel consumption values of 5.3 liters per 100 kilometers (44.38 US mpg) in the Mileage Marathon illustrate the economy potential of the technologies in Audi’s modular efficiency module.

They include energy recuperation when the brakes are applied, a regulated cooling circuit and demand-based control of the pumps. Yet all features blend successfully with a high level of sportiness and dynamism: the A4 has a power output of 176 kW (240 hp) and a maximum torque of 500 Nm (368.78 lb-ft).

The lowest fuel consumption of all was achieved, logically enough, by the compact Audi A3 2.0 TDI. The version with 6-speed S tronic transmission regularly finished a Marathon stage with a consumption of under five liters per 100 kilometers (47.04 US mpg). Its best results were in the region of 4.7 l/100 km (50.05 US mpg).

Varied scenery and routes

These were all excellent values, Titlehough Audi did not spare the cars that took part in the Mileage Marathon. On the fourth stage, for instance, both the vehicles and their drivers faced extreme geographical and climatic conditions. From the arid Death Valley west of Las Vegas, where the temperature was still as high as 33 degrees Celsius (91.4 degrees Fahrenheit) at this time of year, the route led up within a few hours to the heights of the Sierra Nevada, where the Marathon cavalcade encountered snow. After admiring the grandiose natural spectacle of Yosemite National Park, the Marathon descended to Monterey on the Pacific coast and then to Santa Monica near Los Angeles.

On the previous stage from Denver to Las Vegas, the participants had already been able to admire the sheer variety of this vast country’s scenery. There was snow by the roadside as they crossed the Rocky Mountains, and icy surfaces on mountain passes up to 3,300 meters (10,826.77 ft) meant a slight delay in the schedule. On the following day the route passed through Monument Valley and past the Grand Canyon. As the cars approached Las Vegas, the temperature rose again to more than 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit).

It all began on October 6 in New York. The first stages of this long-distance practical test were along the east coast as far as Washington, then inland to Chicago. After this came daily stages as long as 870 kilometers (541 miles) southward through endless farmland, with stopovers in Memphis and Dallas, Texas. The drivers from 15 countries who took turns at the wheel came from the USA, Australia, Mexico, Peru, Japan, Poland, Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, Great Britain, Denmark, Switzerland, Austria and Germany.

Images : AMM in SANTA MONICA




Images : From Monterey to Santa Monica





Images : AMM at Laguna Sega in Monterey






Images : From Mammoth lakes to Monterey





Images : From Death Valley to Mammoth lakes






Images : From Las Vegas to Death Valley






[Source : AUDI]
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• Rent a smart anywhere and anytime, at a moment’s notice
  
• Find and book via cell phone or internet
  
• Pilot project with 50 smart fortwos starts October in Ulm

STUTTGART/ULM : October 21, 2008 – With car2go, Daimler is launching a completely new mobility concept and is providing a future-oriented answer to increasing traffic volume in urban areas. “car2go is an intelligent and creative solution that provides a simple, flexible and value-for-money approach to mobility with environmentally-friendly vehicles” is how Dr Dieter Zetsche, CEO of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, describes the objective of the project.


On 24 October 2008 the first pilot phase will start in the southern German city of Ulm where car2go will be tested in real-life conditions. “Ulm has been one of our most important research locations for many years, and is therefore the ideal choice for testing this future-oriented mobility concept,” says Dr Thomas Weber, member of the board of management responsible for research and development at Daimler AG. Welcoming the commitment of Daimler AG, Ivo Gönner, the Mayor of the City of Ulm, says: “As a centre of scientific activity, Ulm offers the right environment for laying the groundwork for new ways forward in mobility.” The City of Ulm is supporting the car2go project team, in particular with issues of traffic planning.

Simple and economical city driving


And this is how it works: a fleet of smart fortwo vehicles will be made available within the city, functioning for all citizens as a vehicle pool that can be accessed at any time. Following a one-off registration process, the smarts can be hired spontaneously in passing, or pre-booked and used for as long as desired. The concept aims to ensure that a reliable vehicle is available at any time, just a few minutes walk away. The customer gets in and can drive off right away. Once the trip is completed, the driver simply parks the rental smart somewhere within the city limits. Billing for the Ulm project is just as straightforward and flexible as the entire operation of car2go – to the nearest minute, for just 19 cents per minute.

car2go in detail


On registering for car2go, the customer’s driving licence is provided with an electronic chip that enables the car to be unlocked. Customers have several possibilities for accessing a car2go. A spontaneous ‘passing’ rental, for example – wherever a customer finds a free smart, they can hire it ‘on-the-spot’. To do so, the customer simply holds their driving licence up to a reading device behind the windscreen, gets in, enters their PIN number and drives off. Available vehicles can be located quickly and easily via the internet or a telephone service hotline. Titleernatively, vehicles can be booked up to 24 hours in advance. In this case the location and directions to the vehicle reserved are sent to the customer in good time via a text message.

The rental period can last for as long as desired. The vehicle remains reserved for the customer during any stops made – when shopping, for example. When customers wish to return the car2go, they simply leave the vehicle in a parking space within the city limits. All "non-managed" parking spaces within the city limits can be used, for example the car can be parked at the side of the road or within marked parking spaces. In addition, specially marked car2go parking spaces are provided at railway stations or airports.

Charged to the minute
car2go is also notable for its simple and transparent payment system. Charges are not based on distance, but on time – minute for minute – similar to mobile phone usage. Customers can use a car2go in Ulm for 19 cents per minute – inclusive of all associated costs such as fuel, insurance and taxes. Favourable hourly or daily rates apply to longer rental periods. There is no joining fee as a special motivation to try out car2go. Customers are not required to enter into any long-term contractual commitment, and there is no deposit or minimum usage fee. Customers pay for the actual vehicle use by means of a convenient monthly bill.

High quality and reliable service
A service team cleans the vehicles on a regular basis and handles all technical maintenance work. This guarantees that every customer receives a clean, tidy and undamaged vehicle for every trip. The service team is also responsible for refilling the fuel tank, or customers can do this themselves using a pre-paid fuel card found in the glove compartment of the car2go in return for free minutes credited against their next trip. Customers can use the integrated navigation system via a special car2go monitor and they can establish a telephone connection to the service centre should they have any questions about the vehicle.

Start-up with 50 smart fortwos
The first phase of the project with 50 smart fortwos will start in Ulm on 24 October and the vehicles will initially be available to employees of Daimler AG only. Robert Henrich, the responsible project manager in Daimler's Business Innovation division says: “Our objective in this initial project phase is to gather practical experience of using car2go. For example we will analyse the technical implementation, the service concept and the usage behaviour of the customers.” The next pilot phase will begin in the spring of next year, and will see the size of the vehicle fleet in Ulm increased considerably and the group of possible car2go users expanded to include all residents of the city and visitors.

In supporting car2go, Ulm is promoting efficient individual mobility concepts for inner city traffic and the optimum usage of available parking space, and the city is also setting international standards. “The implementation of the car2go pilot project in Ulm has been made possible primarily thanks to the comprehensive support of the city,” Robert Henrich continues. The firm Daimler TSS GmbH based in Ulm played a decisive role in the development of the telematics systems, the internet portal and the fleet management systems.

The origin of the concept: smart - “Not just another car”
When the first smart was produced in 1997, the new two-seater micro-car also carried with it a vision of mobility in the 21st century; tailored to address traffic problems in large urban areas. A host of mobility services, such as special rates for occasional rental of a larger vehicle, cheaper car wash rates, special parking arrangements in large cities and combined usage of car, rail and local public transport all positioned the smart as “not just another car”.

The original idea of the smart mobility concept was taken on by Daimler's Business Innovation division, which identifies emerging business sectors and derives corresponding business models. In view of increasing crude oil prices, higher traffic volumes in urban areas and the growing need for individual mobility, Business Innovation devised car2go as a tailor-made response to the issues raised by today’s urban mobility.

[Source : DAIMLER]
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NORFOLK : October 21, 2008 - Lotus Engineering, the world renowned automotive consultancy division of Lotus, is celebrating its latest accolade after triumphing at 'The Engineer Technology + Innovation Awards 2008' with another environmentally focused project. The winning project, Project HOTFIRE, developed a gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine concept that reduces fuel consumption by 15% and was named the leading academic collaborative project in the automotive sector.



Project HOTFIRE was made up of a collaboration of engine specialists from Lotus Engineering, Continental Powertrain, University College London (UCL) and Loughborough University, with funding from EPSRC (Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council). The project studied the potential efficiency gains of spraying fuel directly into the cylinders of a petrol-driven engine, rather than introducing a fuel/air mixture. Due to outstanding early results, the project progressed further with the delivery of a concept-car engine which has been the subject of interest from a number of large manufacturers.

Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus Plc said: "I am absolutely delighted that our global high technology Lotus engineering division is continually being recognised for leading the industry across a number of advanced technologies which are contributing to the reduction of CO₂ emissions. Project HOTFIRE is an excellent example of an industry and academic partnership producing world-class research for the benefit of the environment and the car buyer."

Kimberley continued: "The most important part of the project is that the technologies developed are available and affordable and as we have already shown, can be easily implemented into next generation models to produce lower emissions."

Geraint Castleton-White, Head of Powertrain at Lotus Engineering said: "The project studied the benefits of homogeneous, early, direct injection for a spark ignition engine, using inlet valve events to minimise throttling losses. Being able to introduce the fuel separately from the air gives you freedom with how you operate the engine, there is no fuel lost to the exhaust, so hydrocarbon emissions are reduced, and you get more efficiency from the engine. It is our dedication to research such as this that keeps Lotus Engineering at the forefront of advanced combustion technologies, which ultimately will find their way into engines of the future."

Two single cylinder research engines were designed and constructed by Lotus Engineering, one of which was optically accessed. The in-cylinder geometry of the two engines was identical and features a close spaced direct injection system with a centrally-mounted injector architecture.

The optical version of the engine incorporated a full length fused silica quartz cylinder liner with a full view of the pent roof of the combustion chamber and a sapphire window in the piston crown. This allowed an advanced suite of laser diagnostics to measure air motion, injection characteristics, air/fuel mixing and combustion. This engine was based at Loughborough University for detailed studies of these in-cylinder phenomena.

The second engine was placed at UCL, and was updated to the same engine architecture as the optical engine, to measure emissions and fuel economy. The principle of the investigation was to use early inlet valve closing as a means of controlling the load on the engines, with a minimum amount of throttle, and so gain significant fuel savings. The emission measurements were essential, as any fuel savings could not be at the expense of the exhaust emissions from the engine.

The end application of this project is a direct injection spark ignition engine architecture that does not require stratified lean burn combustion to achieve significant, fuel economy savings of approximately 15%. This ensures that the system can be used over all speed/load ranges and eliminates the need for an expensive lean NOx trap which is usually required when lean combustion is employed.

Early results from this project were so successful that the same architecture was adopted for the Low CO₂ project, a collaboration between Lotus Engineering and Continental Powertrain with funding from the Energy Saving Trust (EST). This Low CO₂ project has successfully delivered a 3-cylinder mild-hybrid engine incorporating the cylinder head design used by the research and this engine has been installed in Opel Astra demonstrator vehicles which demonstrate significant improvements in both performance and CO₂ emissions.

[Source : LOTUS]
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MERZIG, Germany : October 20, 2008 - With the C-Class top-of-the line model C 63 AMG, Mercedes-Benz has given an impressive statement in the medium class. Where else can you get an enormous larger than 6 liter V8 engine in a relatively small car? But as the power output is comparably low, the high-tech manufacturer Carlsson activates the hidden potential. With up to 565 hp, the Carlsson CK63 leaves its competitors behind its (stainless steel) end pipes. And equipped with new wheels and even more sporty aerodynamics, the top-of-the line C-Class model refined by Carlsson also shows clear features of a top athlete.


Carlsson CK63 – that stands for performance and full torque. The performance kit for the motor type M156 increases the serial performance of the 6.3 liter V8 from 457 hp (336 kW) at 6,800 rpm up to 565 hp/415 kW. The torque significantly increases from 600 to 685 Nm and therefore the car only needs 3.8 seconds to accelerate from 0-100 km/h instead of the serial 4.5 seconds. Once more, the Carlsson engineers are able to prove their expertise gained in motor sports.

All kits include a special motor electronics adaptation, a maximum speed increase up to 300 km/h (electronically limited), a sport air filter and a noble three-part Carlsson motor cover made of real carbon as well as the obligatory Carlsson nameplate in chrome. Carlsson gently limits the never-ending thrust at 300 km/h for all models with an electronic device. The Carlsson sport rear muffler from the 565 hp strong CK63 S-Kit not only renders an enormous sound but also 15 extra hp (11 kW).

Coil-over kit and limited slip differential

The perfectly set-up Carlsson RS coil-over kit which has been co-developed by Ellen Lohr offers a step-less height adjustment and renders a driving dynamics which has never been experienced before. With the individually adjustable damping characteristics, the driver can regulate the setup according to his preference. With this new technical development by Carlsson, the driver does not have to make any compromise. He can enjoy the comfort of the roadworthy suspension system or race for top speeds on a racetrack. To ensure that the extra performance which has been imbued to the C-Class by Carlsson does not go up in smoke on the asphTitle, Carlsson recommends fitting its torque-sensitive multi-plate limited slip differential with mechanically variable lock-up (produced with lock-up values according to customer requirements). This increases the traction and driving stability, especially when accelerating in bends.

Powerful-dynamic Carlsson aerodynamics

The elaborate premium Carlsson aerodynamics consists of a front spoiler, the front spoiler lip RS and a Carlsson rear spoiler (with an imprinted Carlsson logo) which renders stability at higher speeds. All accessories are made of high-quality PUR or optionally real carbon. The styling kit does not only stand out for its perfect finishing, but also for its unique design. It emphasizes the Carlsson designers' claim to always develop something a bit nobler than its competitors.

High Tech forged wheels 1/16 Ultra Light

When developing the Carlsson light alloy wheels 1/16 UL, the engineers and designers most of all focused on a perfect weight optimization. All force effects on the wheel are led into the wheel spider by the regular distribution of spokes. This avoids an over-dimensioned wall thickness and leads to a low wheel weight. The latest forging technology leads to a weight reduction of 38% compared to ordinary wheels with a similar wheel load and dimension! Thanks to the metal compression, the induced forces are forwarded in a far more homogenous way than with a cast wheel. Therefore, the unsprung masses are held as low as possible at the wheel suspensions and that leads to a noticeable driving comfort improvement by the Carlsson forged wheels compared to customary light alloy wheels. The forged Carlsson wheel 1/16 Ultra Light is available in the sizes 8,5x19“ (FA+RA) and 10x19“ (only RA) for the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG.

Finest craftsmanship dominates the interior

According to the customer requirements, Carlsson compiles various components to an individual comfort-mix, from a sport steering wheel to leather interiors or multi-media accessories. In the noble manufactory, also the Carlsson CK63 S is once again significantly individualized. This is how unique specimen are created with the best materials according to customers wishes.

Images : Carlsson CK63 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG





[Source : CARLSSON]
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BANGKOK, Thailand, October 21, 2008 – Honda Automobile (Thailand) Co., Ltd., Thailand’s second largest manufacturer and exporter of passenger cars, announced that production has begun at the company’s second newly operational world-class auto plant, built adjacent to its existing plant in Ayutthaya province, Thailand.


Honda has invested more than Bht. 6.2 billion in its second manufacturing facility in Thailand. Covering an area of about 150,000m², the new auto plant will employ an additional 2,200 Honda associates and double its annual production capacity to 240,000 units.

Fumihiko Ike, President & CEO of Asian Honda Motor Co., Ltd., said, “With this second plant, our Thai operations advance to the next stage. This means not just providing high quality products to global markets. Our operations here will enhance their responsibility as the leader plant in Asia to provide technical support to other plants across the region. With the rapid changes occurring around the world, our operations in Asia will play a greater role than ever,”

The new plant at Ayutthaya will manufacture Honda’s current portfolio of best-selling products – the Accord, Civic, CR-V, Jazz and the City. The first model that rolled off from Honda’s latest facility is the Accord.

The inauguration of Honda’s latest venture in Thailand has raised its total investment in this country to over Bht. 21 billion, making Honda one of the country’s top foreign investors. The company’s first plant started manufacturing operations in 1996.

The investment in the new plant was driven by the growing demand for Honda vehicles in both domestic and key export markets in the Asia/Oceania region. Locally, Honda has sold about 64,000 vehicles in the year up to September, increasing its sales by 33% for the same 9-month period in 2007. Honda’s market share rose from 10.5% last year to 13.9% between January and September 2008.

Kenji Otaka, HATC’s President, said, “With the start of this new auto plant, Honda Automobile Thailand is now ranked the largest manufacturer of passenger cars in ASEAN. This plant incorporates the most advanced clean production technologies currently deployed anywhere, making it one of Honda’s cleanest auto manufacturing facilities in the world.”

The new facility at Rojana Industrial Estate, Ayutthaya, is one of Honda’s most modern and advanced plants in the world, raising the standard for environment-friendliness, ergonomically-designed manufacturing processes, and safety for the team working on site. It is equipped with a “complete water-recycling system” to eliminate water wastage.

The new plant will also reduce the use of volatile organic compounds by 50%, while the installation of Honda-developed CIGS (copper, indium, gallium and selenium) thin-film solar cells will cut carbon dioxide emissions by 10% compared with 2005 standards.

In addition, Honda has ensured that its employees at the plant are given the safest and most work-friendly environment.

More automated systems are also featured at the new facility. The assembly line is equipped with advanced light-weight tools and sophisticated conveyor systems that automatically adjust the position of the car on the assembly line to optimise convenience and comfort for its employees, thereby reducing fatigue.

Honda’s manufacturing facility in Thailand is currently ranked the sixth largest in Honda’s operations around the world after Japan, USA, China, Canada and the United Kingdom. In Thailand, it employs over 4,200 associates and will increase the number to more than 6,400 employees to manage manufacturing operations at the two auto plants.

[Source : HONDA]
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• Saloon and hatch body styles with Sports Tourer to follow
  
• Sporty silhouette with class-leading aerodynamics
  
• Five engines from 130PS to 260PS; two new engines to follow with Sports Tourer
  
• Technical innovation throughout the range

LUTON : October 20, 2008 - The UK’s mid-size sector has traditionally been the preserve of conservative and predictable designs. But now Vauxhall is launching the Insignia, which is set to break from convention by offering buyers in this class a compelling mix of breathtaking design and leading technology.


Vauxhall Insignia saloon and hatch models will hit UK dealerships at the end of 2008 with a broad range of two diesel and three petrol engines. The Sports Tourer - due in 2009 - will bring with it two further powertrains, a 1.6-litre, 180PS petrol and a new 2.0 CDTi BiTurbo with a maximum output of 190PS. An ecoFLEX version with lower C02 emissions, but with no performance compromise, will join the line-up in 2009. All powertrains will come with either a six-speed manual or six-speed auto transmission.

New technology benefits dynamics and safety

A range of new or improved features on the Vauxhall Insignia enhance everything from dynamics to comfort and safety. The FlexRide system, available on selected models, allows drivers to personalise their suspension set up at the press of a button, or if left alone will automatically adapt to different driving styles. Complementing FlexRide is Adaptive 4X4, which improves handling and stability in all conditions. Standard with both turbocharged petrol powertrains, the system uses electronically controlled hydraulic disc clutch plates to distribute torque from 0-100 per cent between the front and rear axles. On SRi models, an electronic limited slip differential which balances rear wheel torque left to right is also standard.

Vauxhall's Front Camera System will appear as an option on Insignia soon after launch. This leading technology uses a square camera, positioned inside the car's windscreen to read and memorise both speed warning and no-overtaking signs, the details of which are relayed back to the driver from the instrument panel. The system also incorporates a lane departure warning, alerting drivers if they unintentionally leave their lane.

The Vauxhall Insignia is also the first Vauxhall to use the latest generation Adaptive Forward Lighting. This clever system now uses nine lighting functions which automatically adapt to information relating to road profile, driving status and general visibility. Models fitted with Intelligent AFL are also equipped with LED daytime running lamps.

DESIGN

With its groundbreaking design and sophisticated technology, the new Insignia takes Vauxhall's new-found design language to another level. The premium styling of the new five-seater clearly defines Vauxhall's philosophy of making advanced technology and attractive design affordable.

Vauxhall has a long and successful tradition of building aerodynamic cars - remember the 1990 Calibra with its Cd of 0.26? With a drag coefficient of 0.27, the Vauxhall Insignia is more streamlined than competitors. The Insignia's fuel consumption and driving dynamics benefit from its sleek, flowing styling which was optimised during more than 650 hours in the wind tunnel, in addition to 290 computer simulations.

In addition to its streamlined body shape and sporty roofline, the Vauxhall Insignia boasts numerous details designed to improve aerodynamic performance. These include the front bumper corners, boot-lid spoiler, the exterior mirror's wing form and the profiled rear axle's lower control arm. The future ecoFLEX version, designed to produce low CO2 emissions, will take these improvements a stage further, to a cd at only 0.26

Fresh and innovative appearance

Like the signature crease on the bonnet, a blade form can be seen in the side of the car, highlighting a styling element that will become a defining characteristic of future Vauxhalls. Other design elements of note include a distinctive front grille with a newly-designed Vauxhall Griffin badge, as well as sweeping front and rear light lenses.

The shapes and surfaces of the exterior are also echoed in the Insignia's interior. Crafted in high quality materials, the new car's dashboard wraps around from the instrument panel to the door, embracing the occupants. The bold exterior "blade" graphic is picked up in the shape of the interior door grab handle, the steering wheel and the gear-shift surround.

POWERTRAIN

The new Vauxhall Insignia launches with a range of five engines, all of which meet Euro 5 emissions standards. The three petrol engines range from 140 to 260PS and two new 2.0-litre turbo-diesels are available with either 130 or 160PS. All engines are highly competitive in terms of CO2 and fuel consumption in their respective power output categories. In Spring 2009, two additional powertrains - a 180PS 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol and a BiTurbo version of the 2.0 CDTi with 190PS - will become available. An ecoFLEX version with low CO2 emissions will also join the lineup.

Apart from the auto-only 260PS V6 model, each engine is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, with all but the 1.8-litre petrol model being available with the optional six-speed automatic transmission. Adaptive 4x4 is standard on 260PS V6 models, and optional on 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol cars.

1.8 ECOTEC

The entry level petrol engine is the four-cylinder 1.8 ECOTEC recently introduced on other models in the Vauxhall range. It produces 140PS at 6300rpm and maximum torque of 175Nm at 3800rpm. Technical highlights of the four-valve per cylinder unit include variable camshaft phasing, a two-phase intake control pipe, and a new magnetic crankshaft sensor - one of many ways in which Vauxhall has worked to reduce the weight of its engines.

While the 1.8 ECOTEC weighs in at just 118kgs - 20 per cent less than its predecessor - extensive bracing of the head and block has resulted in greater rigidity and structural strength.

In contrast to conventional engines, in which the crankshaft and camshaft are connected mechanically via a belt or chain, the ECOTEC's variable phasing allows the camshaft to turn relative to the crankshaft. This happens with the aid of a highly-compact, vane-type electro-hydraulic lightweight adjuster. The adjustment range on the inlet side is a 60 degree crankshaft angle, and a 45 degree crankshaft angle on the outlet side.

Double cam phasing enables variable valve control times, which in turn allows the engine to adapt to various speeds and cylinder charges. The benefits are higher performance, better torque over a wide rev-range, lower emissions due to high gas recirculation rates, lower fuel consumption, and reduced engine noise.

2.0T ECOTEC

The 2.0-litre turbo is new in the Vauxhall mid-size class segment. The 220PS direct-injection engine is of all-aluminum construction and generates 350Nm of torque from 2000 to 4000rpm, with twin balancer shafts to ensure smooth running. This engine also illustrates the downsizing policy at GM as this 2.0-litre, four-cylinder model is competitive with five- and six-cylinder cars in terms of performance, but has lower fuel consumption and emissions.

Fitted with this engine, the Vauxhall Insignia can accelerate from 0-60mph in 7.2 seconds and achieve a top speed of 150mph, yet will still return 42.2mpg on the Extra-urban cycle.

A direct petrol injection system contributes toward the 2.0T's overall efficiency, ensuring a more thorough combustion of the fuel/air mixture. A high-pressure pump driven by the camshaft increases the pressure of the fuel drawn from the car's tank up to 155 bar. The multi-hole injection nozzles are located below the intake ports and the special shape of the piston head means that the mixture swirls around the centrally positioned spark plug. Due to the efficiency of the combustion process, a particularly high compression ratio (for a turbocharged engine) of 9.3:1 was achieved, which is beneficial to the 2.0T's fuel consumption while the engine is under partial load.

The 2.0T's uses a twin-scroll turbocharger, with the first and fourth channels of the exhaust manifold are separated from the second and third channels. The pulsing gas streams are led through spirals, or scrolls, and brought together directly before the turbine. This separation optimises the gas flow and allows a build up of pressure from as early as 1400rpm, providing more immediate acceleration from lower revs. The maximum charge pressure is 1.38 bar.

A pneumatic over-run air valve and highly efficient turbine wheel also feature on the 2.0T's compact turbocharger. At a defined vacuum, a valve is opened which leads the air back to the compressor inlet, maintaining the turbine's speed while it does so, and therefore providing instant charge when the accelerator is pressed. To increase volumetric efficiency in the combustion chambers, the pre-compressed air is cooled by around 100 degrees Celcius in an intercooler before entering the chambers.

The 2.0T's high thermal endurance is supported by a water jacket which extends to the bottom of the cylinders, and oil-spray cooling of the underside of the pistons. The cast aluminium pistons are mated via forged rods to a forged crankshaft.

Both camshafts can be adjusted via an electro-hydraulic cam phaser to match valve opening times according to engine load via the ECU. In addition, a higher overlap at lower speeds with continuously variable camshaft phasing ensures the turbocharger responds more quickly. The outlet valves are sodium-filled and all valves are actuated via low-friction roller valve levers.

Other engine features are two counter-rotating balance shafts, low-maintenance chain drive for the camshafts, and a cast-on oil filter housing, which is easily accessible from above. An oil change simply requires replacing the cartridge, and is signaled by an interval indicator. Sensors measure wear and tear of the fully synthetic lubricant according to parameters such as the number of cold starts and the number of ignition sparks delivered by the plugs.

2.8 V6 Turbo ECOTEC

The Insignia's most powerful engine at launch will be the 2.8 V6 Turbo, which develops 260PS and 350Nm of torque between 1900 and 4500rpm. It boasts a wide array of high-tech features: a classical cylinder angle of 60 degrees and overhead camshafts driven by double chains; variable valve control and a four-bearing crankshaft made from micro-alloy forged steel - a material commonly used in racing engines. The advanced construction of the V6 includes details such as friction-reducing, coated pistons. These are provided with hard-anodised ring grooves for longer life, run in cast iron sleeves and are cooled by oil spray. Sinter-forged steel conrods, outlet valves filled with sodium for improved cooling and the oil sump which is die-cast in aluminum for extra structural rigidity also illustrate the advanced overall design of this engine.

Operating with a 9.5:1 compression ratio, the engine has a single, twin-scroll turbocharger. The intercooled unit, installed centrally above the transmission, has an integrated charge air control valve and feeds the engine with up to 0.6 bar boost pressure. The turbine wheel is made of a high-grade special steel alloy. Due to the twin-scroll design, the turbine is fed uniformly from both banks of cylinders. Separate channels - one for each cylinder bank - separate the exhaust gas pulses. This keeps energy-related losses of the turbocharger low, while benefiting exhaust gas flow and operating efficiency.

The continuously variable, electronically controlled and hydraulically activated phasing of the inlet camshafts ensures a rapid throttle response and strong torque, even at low engine speeds. The inlet camshafts can be turned within a range of 50 degrees relative to the crankshaft in order to adapt the valve control times, and thus the charge cycle, to the prevailing engine load and speed. Both the inlet and outlet shafts are made of high-strength aluminum, which makes them especially lightweight, heat-resistant and durable.

In addition to the quick response behavior of the turbocharger, the rapid but smooth build-up of engine power is due mainly to the 32-bit Bosch-Motronic engine management system. The control unit's software was specially adapted to the Vauxhall Insignia and regulates all key functions such as ignition timing, fuel injection, turbo boost pressure, airflow measurement and throttle valve position.

The exhaust manifolds have double walls, with the innermost made of hydro-formed stainless steel. This reduces exhaust emissions after a cold start because the manifold absorbs less heat. In addition, air is blown into the manifold for up to 30 seconds after a cold start so that the upstream catalytic converter responds more quickly.

The performance of the engine is as impressive as its technical specification. Some 90 percent of the maximum 350Nm of torque is generated at only 1500rpm and the peak value is available between 1900 and 4500rpm. The 2.8-litre V6 comes as standard with a six-speed automatic transmission and Adaptive 4x4 all-wheel-drive.

2.0 CDTi (130 & 160PS)

The new-generation Vauxhall 2.0-litre diesel engines in the Vauxhall Insignia feature more power and torque, as well as excellent fuel economy. The Insignia will launch with two versions of the 2.0 CDTI engine developing either 130PS or 160PS. This last engine variant will also power the Vauxhall Insignia ecoFLEX with lower fuel consumptions and CO2 emissions. All versions come with a maintenance-free diesel particulate filter as standard and meet Euro 5 emission levels.

Both engines are exceptionally economical, and when fitted with the standard six-speed manual transmission (a six-speed automatic is available on both engines) achieve 58.9mpg on the Extra urban cycle. Despite this, the 2.0 CDTi 160 will accelerate from 0-60mph in 8.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 135mph.

The 2.0 CDTis have two overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, and common-rail, multiple fuel direct injection, together with a variable geometry turbocharger for a rapid throttle response from low rpm. Thanks to the large 70-litre tank, the diesel models boast a range of approximately 750 miles, based on their combined fuel consumption figures.

CHASSIS

An all-new chassis underpins the Vauxhall Insignia. Its MacPherson strut front suspension has dual path top mountings in the body structure turrets, separating the transfer of spring and damper loadings. To reduce unsprung weight, the combined steering knuckle and strut carrier is made from aluminum, and the anti-roll bar from hollow section steel.

Steering and lower suspension arms are attached through two mountings to a substantial front sub-frame, which is bolted via four bushings to the front structure's longitudinal members. This isolated mounting technique helps reduce the transfer of road shocks and noise to the cabin. The hydraulic damping of the rear arm mounting also adds to ride comfort.

The rear suspension comprises an independent, four-link layout, with the second lower link in aluminum. For all-wheel-drive applications, a lower H-arm is used. The bushes in the rear-most arms are hydraulically damped to help prevent road shocks and vibrations from being transmitted through the steering wheel.

FlexRide system

The new FlexRide system enables drivers to choose a chassis setup that matches their own particular driving style. In addition to the Standard ride setting, FlexRide enables the driver to select a relaxed (Tour) setting or a firmer suspension set-up (Sport) by pressing one of two buttons on the instrument panel. Deactivating the Sport or Tour mode returns the ride to the Standard setting. In all modes, the chassis management system automatically adapts damping in real time to the driving and road conditions.

In Sport mode, FlexRide not only provides stiffer damping, but also swifter throttle response. It also changes the valving in the Variable Effort Steering (VES), raises the shift-points of the automatic transmission to a higher rpm and adjusts the Adaptive 4X4 system for more rear-wheel drive. In Sport mode, the Intelligent AFL system reacts more quickly, and the lighting on the instrument panel changes from white to red to add to the driving experience.

In the customisation menu, accessible via the infotainment display (available with satellite navigation), the driver can personalise the Sport mode by specifying which functions are activated when the Sport button is pushed. For instance, the electronically controlled dampers, VES, and all-wheel drive can be added or switched off.

At the heart of FlexRide is the Driving Mode Control (DMC) which oversees and executes the system's settings, allowing the car to react to sudden changes in driving style or emergency situations. For example, if an obstacle must be avoided when the car is in 'Tour' mode, various chassis sensors convey this to the DMC and the dampers are adjusted within a split second, optimising acceleration, braking and cornering.

FlexRide is standard on all petrol models, other than the 1.8 ECOTEC, where it is available as an option on SRi models. All 130PS 2.0CDTi SRi models can be specified with FlexRide as an option, while SE, Elite and SRi models powered by the 160PS 2.0CDTi also receive FlexRide as an option.

Adaptive 4X4

Both the Insignia's turbocharged petrol engines are available with the latest-generation advanced all-wheel-drive system. This system will also be available on future, more powerful diesel versions. Called Adaptive 4X4, it is designed to optimise handling and driving stability in all conditions, as well as increase traction at take-off and on slippery surfaces. Under electronic control, the Haldex hydraulic rear clutch unit continuously adjusts and optimises torque distribution between the front and rear axles.

The Adaptive 4X4 control unit is fully integrated with Insignia's other control systems. It consists of a Power Take-off Unit (PTU) in the front final-drive that transmits engine torque through a prop-shaft to the Rear Drive Module (RDM), which includes a Torque Transfer Device (TTD). A rear electronic Limited Slip Differential (eLSD) enhances the system on SRi models.

Adaptive 4X4 processes signals from the ESP sensors, the steering angle sensor and accelerator pedal position to adapt power distribution to the prevailing driving conditions. While offering better traction on low friction surfaces, the sophisticated operation of the Adaptive 4X4 improves stability in all situations.

In the SRi variant, Adaptive 4X4 is coupled to an electronically-controlled eLSD, which takes chassis control a step further. It is installed alongside the RDM and operates via pressurized clutch plates on a principle similar to the larger TTD. In icy or wet split-friction conditions, for example, it uses input from the rear wheel speed sensors and can transfer up to 50% of torque between the drive shafts, to whichever wheel has more grip.

The eLSD also gives the driver enhanced control when cornering hard or completing a high speed manoeuvre, such as a lane change, by momentarily applying more or less torque to either of the wheels to help the rear of the car follow the direction of the front wheels. That way, the eLSD keeps the Vauxhall Insignia better balanced and more tightly controlled without requiring 'outside' intervention from ESP.

Brakes and wheels

All Insignias come as standard with disc brakes all round, ventilated at the front. The 2.0T and 2.8 V6 Turbo models also have ventilated discs at the rear. Entry level Insignias come as standard with 16-inch rims and 215/60 R 16 V tyres, while the Exclusiv gets 17-inch Structure rims with 225/55 R17 W tyres. The SE, SRi and Elite all ride on 18-inch alloys as standard, while 19-inch rims with 245/40 R19 Y tyres are optional. For the first time on a mid-size Vauxhall, 20-inch rims with 245/35 R20 Y tyres are also available as an option.

SAFETY

The new Vauxhall Insignia is designed, engineered and built to make it not just one of the safest cars on the road, but one of the most comfortable, too. The Vauxhall Insignia is built with a stiff body structure to withstand the toughest crashes. Its seats are among the best in class not only in terms of ergonomic comfort but also safety. Moreover, the mid-size car offers an advanced chassis and an Adaptive 4x4 all-wheel drive system that enhances stability even in challenging road conditions. Finally, Vauxhall has added extra assistance and safety systems - like its Front Camera System - to make the driving experience more relaxing, comfortable and secure.

In addition, there is a plethora of standard safety equipment on all Insignias, including the following:

• Anti-lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution, cornering brake control comprehensive brake assistance system, that comprises emergency brake assistance, hydraulic brake-fade assistance, brake disk cleaning and hill start assistance.
  
• Electronic Stability Programme (ESP)
  
• Traction Control with engine and brake intervention (TC Plus)
  
• Three height-adjustable head restraints in the rear
  
• Three-point safety belts all around
  
• Belt-force limiters and pyrotechnic double belt tensioners in front
  
• Seatbelt warning signals in front (on all rear seats)
  
• ISOFIX child seat fixtures in the rear
  
• Comprehensive airbag system, including multi-stage front and side airbags for driver and front passenger, head curtain airbags (front and outer rear seats)
  
• Adaptive brake lights that warn vehicles driving behind the car if it brakes suddenly or if ABS intervenes at speeds above 20mph. All three brake lights then flash at a frequency of five hertz and continue flashing for three seconds after the car comes to a stop
  
• Pedal Release System (PRS)
  
• The latest generation active head restraints in front, which provide front occupants with highly effective protection against whiplash injuries

Intelligent AFL, Adaptive 4x4 and Front Camera System

In addition to the generous safety equipment available throughout the Insignia range, Vauxhall is offering levels of technology and innovation that is seldom seen in this sector, such as:

• Intelligent Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL) cornering light system, in which the car's headlamp beam automatically adjusts to prevailing road and weather conditions. The AFL now has a total of nine light functions so drivers can see the road better while, for example, turning a curve or driving on a country road at night. In addition, LED daytime running lights, including automatic light switching, are standard, improving the car's visibility during the day.
  
• Adaptive 4x4 improves the traction on take-off and on slippery surfaces, as well as optimising handling and stability in all conditions. In combination with the Sport trim, the AWD system is enhanced by an electronically controlled Limited Slip Differential (eLSD), which further enhances the traction and improves vehicle stability.
  
• Vauxhall's Front Camera System has two jobs: it can warn drivers when they unintentionally veer off the road and it can detect and recognize traffic signs. In this way, drivers are given added assistance without interference.
  
• The all-new Vauxhall Insignia seats take occupant comfort and safety to new levels. A wide range of adjustment on both the seats and steering wheel enables occupants to find an optimal seating position, and their ergonomic design offers superb back support. An active ventilation system is available as an option together with the AGR-certified Ergonomic Sport Seat.

Extras in the Vauxhall Insignia making driving easier and more comfortable

Electronic climate control ensures a stable cabin climate, even under changing external conditions. The electronic climate control's multi-patented controller does not follow the conventional principle of temperature measurement and re-adjustment. Instead, calculations are based on a mathematical energy balance model, making it possible to prevent disturbance variables such as the heat emission of the audio system from causing control errors. When the vehicle is parked, the system continues to monitor the environmental conditions, outside temperature and solar radiation for a period of two hours. From these parameters, it computes the required response of the electronic climate control for a comfortable continuation of the journey.

EQUIPMENT & RANGE

An all-new satellite navigation system, operated through a centrally mounted multi-function controller is available on all Insignias as a cost option. The system includes a seven-inch monitor, 3-D map view and improved scroll and zoom functions. It also incorporates a port for either iPod or MP3 USB functions. In MP3 mode, the system allows improved access to files and directories, and in iPod mode, the interface uses functions such as track and list.

Accessing these functions is easier through the Insignia's new multi-function controller. In conjunction with the satellite navigation system, the controller uses a turn/push selection action that is located on the centre console between the front seats (in combination with an electric handbrake). This control benefits tall drivers who sit well back in their seats, and another rotary knob, operating the same functions, can also be found below the monitor.

Range

All Insignias come with high levels of equipment as standard, including ESP, passenger airbag deactivation, automatic headlights, electric driver's seat height adjuster and electrically adjustable four way lumbar support. Cruise control is also standard across the range, along with front, side and curtain airbags, Isofix on all 3 rear seats, and ABS.

S

High quality begins with the S entry level, which features chrome highlights with a real metal feel. The interior has metallic trim on the instrument panel, centre console and doors, while the charcoal fabric has a classic 'labyrinth' pattern. The S offers generous standard equipment, including comfort items such as manual air conditioning, a CD 300 audio system with seven speakers, power outside mirrors, split rear seat back (60:40), on-board computer, cruise control, steering wheel mounted audio controls and leather trimmed steering wheel. The S comes on 16" steel wheels with 215/60 tyres.

Exclusiv

The Exclusiv will be available in two seat trim colours, charcoal or beige. 'Dune' fabric features a pattern inspired by organic graphics in home interiors. As with the S trim, the interior again has metallic inserts on the instrument panel, centre console and doors. Specification over and above the S trim includes single zone climate control, 17" structure wheels with 225/55 tyres, a front centre armrest with storage facility, and interior ambient lighting.

SE

The SE is also available with a choice of interior seat trim, charcoal or beige, and comes with part leather effect seat bolsters. Standard on the SE are 18" alloy wheels with 245/45 tyres, an electronic handbrake, rain sensitive windscreen wipers, electric rear windows, electric passenger's seat height adjuster and electrically adjustable four way lumbar support. In addition the SE receives an audio upgrade to the CDC400 system with integral six-disc autochanger, MP3 format and DAB digital radio. Flexride is also standard on the 2.0 Turbo petrol engine.

Elite

The Elite model builds on the SE, adding full leather seat trim, available in either charcoal or beige, eight way electrically adjustable drivers seat, dual zone climate control, front and rear parking distance sensors, Intelligent Adaptive Forward Lighting, front fog lights and electrically foldable door mirrors. Flexride (Adaptive Stability Technology) is standard on the 2.0 Turbo and 2.8 V6 petrol engines, while 4X4 is also standard on the 2.8 V6 model.

SRi

The Piano Black décor in the SRi contrasts with silver highlights to create a highly modern and sporting cabin. This is enhanced by the charcoal 'Vitesse' fabric found on the SRi's ergonomic sports seats, and front occupants also benefit from an extendable squab section, the angle of which can be adjusted. A perforated leather sports steering wheel, CD 300 audio and alloy covered pedals are all standard, along with 18" alloy wheels with 245/45 tyres, single zone climate control, electric rear windows, front fog lights and a sports chassis 15mm lower than on other trim levels. Ventilated Sport Leather seats are available as an option, which includes an upgrade to dual zone climate control. FlexRide (Adaptive Stability Technology) is again standard on the 2.0 Turbo petrol engine, but is also available as an option on all other SRi engines.

Images : 2009 Vauxhall Insignia - New images








Images : 2009 Vauxhall Insignia - First released images




Images : 2009 Vauxhall Insignia Sport Tourer



[Source : GM - Opel/Vauxhall]
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INGOLSTADT : October 20, 2008 - The new Audi S4 and Audi S4 Avant are top-class athletes ahead of their field. Their engine, the 3.0 TFSI, delivers 245 kW (333 hp) yet consumes only 9.7 liters of fuel per 100 km (24.25 US mpg). quattro permanent four-wheel drive, sports suspension and a high-performance brake system control the power reliably. With optional performance technologies - the seven-speed S tronic, the new sport differential and the Audi drive select dynamic driving system - both new S models from Audi are extending their lead even further.


Engine

It takes just two figures to comprehend the dynamic potential of the new Audi S4 and S4 Avant: 5.1 seconds for the sprint from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) and only 4.4 seconds for the intermediate sprint from 80 to 120 km/h (49.71 - 74.56 mph) in fourth gear. Behind these figures there is a fascinating driving experience, marked by the sonorous sound of the new mechanically supercharged V6 engine, its mighty propulsive power, its free-revving character and its sharp, spontaneous response to the throttle.

The 3.0 TFSI is the new range-topping unit in Audi's V6 engine family. It develops 245 kW (333 hp) and delivers a powerful 440 Nm of torque (324.53 lb-ft) to the crankshaft between 2,900 and 5,300 rpm. The 3.0 TFSI combines two state-of-the-art technologies - gasoline direct injection and mechanical supercharging. These technologies make it a prime example of Audi's downsizing philosophy for greater efficiency, i.e. engine capacity is replaced by a supercharger.

The brand with the four rings has a long tradition of supercharged engines. The legendary Grand Prix racing cars built by Auto Union back in the 1930s already featured mechanical superchargers, which coaxed as much as 440 kW (around 600 hp) out of the mighty 16-cylinder and 12-cylinder engines. From the late 1970s on, Audi focused its attention on the exhaust turbocharger, which helped it to a succession of noteworthy triumphs in the world of motor sport. The turbo engines also began to enjoy resounding success in the market.

Now the supercharger is staging a comeback - the T in the engine description no longer stands for the turbocharger alone. Extensive comparative tests revealed the mechanical supercharger to be superior to a biturbo concept for the big V6 engine. In conjunction with direct injection this concept has clear advantages in terms of the prioritized features of packaging, starting performance and responsiveness.

The supercharger is so compact that is easily accommodated in the 90-degree V of the cylinder banks, in place of the intake manifold. The engine-driven Poly-V belt that powers the mechanical turbocharger provides full thrust right from idling speed. The 3.0 TFSI delivers its maximum 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft) at only 2,900 rpm and maintains this constantly until 5,300 rpm. The intermediate sprint from 80 to 120 km/h (49.71 to 74.56 mph) is completed in fourth gear in 4.4 seconds; even in sixth gear it takes a mere 7.1 seconds.

The gas paths after the supercharger are very short which is why the 3.0 TFSI builds up torque extremely quickly when accelerating, even more dynamically than a naturally aspirated engine of the same displacement. The 3.0 TFSI responds directly to the throttle in true sporty fashion, is agile and sprightly, revving up to the maximum of 7,000 rpm with playful ease.

27 percent decrease in consumption

In terms of fuel consumption too, the new Audi S4 and S4 Avant 3.0 TFSI score top marks - using only 9.7 liters per 100 km (24.25 US mpg), the sedan outdoes its predecessor by a remarkable 3.6 liters (0.95 US gal), as much as 27 percent. The Audi technology of gasoline direct injection according to the FSI principle was what made this trailblazing efficiency possible in the first place. Unlike conventional solutions, the supercharger is located behind the throttle valve. At loads below supercharging level and when coasting, i.e. when the throttle valve is closed, it lies in a vacuum: due to the low density its rotors are free-running and the amount of power required to drive them is low.

The supercharger is a so-called Roots blower. Inside it, two four-vane rotary pistons counter-rotate at a speed of up to 23,000 rpm, with the air gap between them measuring just a few thousandths of a millimeter. The rotors can deliver 1,000 kilograms (2204.62 lb) of air per hour and force it into the combustion chambers at a boost pressure of up to 0.8 bar. Two intercoolers made of aluminum, connected to a separate coolant circuit, are integrated into the housing in a particularly efficient way. Here, the compressed and thus heated intake air is cooled down again in order to increase the volume of air required for the combustion process.

The three-liter V6 engine itself belongs to Audi's family of ultramodern V engines. In addition to the standard cylinder angle of 90 degrees, their attributes include systematic lightweight construction - the three-liter's crankcase, which is made from cast aluminum/silicon, tips the scales at just 33 kilograms (72.75 lb). The entire engine, including the supercharger, weighs 189 kilograms (416.67 lb). The bore measures 84.5 millimeters (3.33 in) and the stroke 89.0 millimeters (3.5 in), producing a swept volume of 2,995 cc.

Audi has included a whole array of refined high-tech features on the 3.0 TFSI. The crankcase has been adapted to the higher prevailing pressures and all components are frictionally optimized. The intake camshafts can be adjusted through a 42- degree crankshaft angle. In the intake ports, tumble flaps aid mixture preparation.

The injection system is a fundamentally new design. A common rail system with six-hole injectors injects the fuel directly into the combustion chambers at a pressure of up to 150 bar. The injectors' highly dynamic response permits up to three fuel injections per operating cycle across an extensive range of the characteristic map. The high compression ratio of 10.3:1 also contributes to optimum combustion and therefore superior efficiency. The direct injection principle is once again the key, because the intensively swirled fuel cools the combustion chamber, reducing the tendency to knock.

Transmissions

Audi delivers the Audi S4 and S4 Avant with a six-speed manual transmission as standard - its short and precise lever travel and low operating force make every gear change a delight. Special selector fork mountings decouple the gear lever from the driveline so that the driver does not sense any vibration.

Internal friction in the transmission has been minimized, improving the already high level of efficiency still further. A change-up display in the driver information system helps the driver to adopt a more economical driving style. It shows which gear is in use and recommends a different gear if this would be a better choice. The dual-mass flywheel and the hydraulically actuated single dry-plate clutch are not bolted to the crankshaft in the usual way, but supported on the transmission input shaft. On the Audi S4 and S4 Avant, the differential is located in front of the clutch. Output to it is via a hollow shaft, which features a so-called beveloid gear on both sides, enabling it to be installed at an inclined angle of 7.2 degrees.

Interchanging the components has moved the front axle forward by 154 millimeters (6.06 in) compared with the previous model. This has many advantages - a long wheelbase, a short front overhang and good weight distribution. It results in handling characteristics that set new standards in terms of dynamism, precision and stability.

Dynamic and efficient: the seven-speed S tronic

On request the new Audi S4 and S4 Avant leave the assembly line equipped with the seven-speed S tronic transmission, which is exceptionally dynamic and at the same time remarkably efficient. The innovative dual-clutch transmission can be used in various ways. The fully automatic mode features the D (Drive) and S (Sport) programs. The gears can also be manually switched with the shift selector lever or with the paddles on the steering wheel - an amazingly fast process. The gearshift feel is dynamic, comfortable and very precise - typically Audi.

The seven-speed S tronic consists of two separate transmissions and uses two multi-plate clutches that control the various gears. The large outer K1 clutch transmits the power through a solid shaft to the gear wheels for gears 1, 3, 5 and 7; they are located at the rear of the aluminum transmission housing. A hollow shaft rotates around the solid shaft. It is connected to the compact K2 clutch, which is integrated into the inside of its larger sibling, and which controls the gear wheels for gears 2, 4 and 6, as well as reverse gear. All gear wheels are arranged one behind the other on both output shafts, in the order 4, 6, 2, R, 1, 3, 7 and 5.

Both transmission structures are continuously active, but only one is powered at a time by the engine. For example, when the driver accelerates in third gear, the fourth gear is already engaged in the second transmission structure. The shifting process takes place as the clutch changes - K1 opens and K2 closes with lightning speed. The gear change takes only a few hundredths of a second and is completed without interrupting traction. It is so fluid and smooth that the driver hardly notices it.

Each component of the new seven-gear S tronic attests to Audi's innovative approach and to the company's uncompromising quality standards. Carbon-coated synchronizer rings guarantee synchronization of unsurpassed quality and stability. The gears one through three and reverse are also designed as three-cone synchronizations. Both multi-plate clutches are managed with supreme precision when driving off and shifting between gears thanks to the compact pressure cylinders, electronically controlled speed compensation and optimized coil spring packages.

Quattro drive and the sport differential

Since 1980, quattro has been a synonym for cars with outstanding driving dynamics. In its basic setting, the torque-sensing centre differential delivers 40 percent of the tractive force from the engine to the front axle and 60 percent to the rear axle. Since the latest Audi RS4 was introduced in 2005, this degree of rearward bias has been standard on all new Audi models; it guarantees a high level of driving pleasure. The torque-sensing differential redistributes engine output without delay if road surface conditions change, and is thus the most advanced technical principle on the market.

This exceptionally good traction puts the quattro system at an extremely high level as far as dynamics in a forward direction are concerned. But quattro technology also has distinct advantages in terms of lateral dynamics. By distributing traction among all four wheels, each wheel has greater potential to resist lateral forces, and tire grip is maintained for significantly longer. The action of the electronic differential lock (EDL) and the typical Audi settings adopted for the ESP electronic stabilization system also add to driving pleasure and a high level of stability.

Superimposed stages for acceleration

The superimposed output stage rotates ten percent faster than the half-shaft that normally drives the wheel; the two drivelines can be connected together by the multi-plate clutch. If the clutch is engaged, the wheel is accelerated by the superimposed stage that is running at a higher speed, and thus receives an additional torque input. The differential reduces the tractive force reaching the opposite wheel accordingly. In most driving situations, almost the complete input torque can be diverted to one rear wheel in this way. The maximum difference in torque between the wheels is 1,800 Newton-meters (1327.61 lb-ft).

The sport differential is even capable of completely eliminating the classic loadreversal reactions when the accelerator is lifted or the brakes applied suddenly while cornering; the driver can specify this function by selecting 'comfort' mode. If the accelerator pedal is released, torque distribution between the wheels is adjusted almost instantaneously.

Unlike other systems, the Audi sport differential is just as effective when the engine is driving the wheels as it is on the overrun or when the car is coasting freely. In simplified terms, here too one wheel is braked and the other accelerated with the aid of the superimposed drive stages. This diverts the torque to the wheels and the vehicle is given a precisely calculated impulse in the required direction.

A technically superior solution

The task of distributing a high level of torque with minimum losses by way of a transmission that is compact and light in weight was an extremely challenging one. The solution arrived at by Audi's engineers is as ingenious as it is innovative. A new transmission stage, consisting of two sun wheels and a ring gear, performs the task in a very simple fashion. The ingenuity lies in the fact that the ring gear is displaced in relation to the sun wheels. The resulting generous gear tooth overlap enables torque transfer to take place using a minimum number of components.

This is the first time that this principle has been used in a road-vehicle driveline. The system needs no maintenance throughout its life, and operates at a high level of efficiency. The additional fuel consumption needed for the active sport differential is so small that it is hardly measurable. The device takes effect extremely quickly and has a very high level of control accuracy.

Thanks to its control unit, the sport differential is an intelligent unit. Audi developed the necessary software, which uses a unique operating principle, inhouse. The computer obtains the information it needs from the steering angle, wheel speed, lateral acceleration and yaw-rate sensors and from current engine data. Twin yaw-rate and lateral acceleration sensors are installed for the sport differential. This explains the system's extremely high reaction speed: data from both sensors are continuously compared in the control unit, which means that reliable results are available more rapidly.

Audi drive select - the unique high-tech package

The quattro driveline with active sport differential is part of Audi drive select, the innovative dynamic driving system premiered on the new Audi A4. As part of an optimal combination with Audi dynamic steering and electronic shock absorber control, the permanent four-wheel driveline and the sport differential demonstrate their immense capabilities with regard to driving dynamics.

Audi drive select integrates the technical components that determine the quality of the driving experience: engine, transmission, steering, shock absorbers and the sport differential. Drivers can adjust the characteristics of these systems at any time to suit their personal preferences. Audi drive select is a successful synthesis of comfort and convenience with dynamic sportiness at a previously unattained level.

Buttons on the centre console enable drivers to vary the operation of Audi drive select in three stages ranging from comfortable to sporty, or to put together a profile that suits their personal preferences. The engine's throttle response characteristic can be determined first, followed by that of the servotronic speeddependent power steering and, if the car has automatic transmission, its shift points.

Three operating modes for the sport differential

The functions of the sport differential can also be varied to suit the driver's individual wishes. In the 'comfort' mode, driving safety and the car's stability have absolute priority, with optimal damping of load reversals. In the 'auto' mode the program achieves a harmonious balance between all the functions. Finally, the 'dynamic' mode emphasizes the functions contributing towards agility, so that the dynamic effect of the sport differential is most easily felt. In this case, response to load reversals is both agile and easily controllable.

Electronic damper control

Audi drive select with the sport differential can be combined with electronic damping control. The gas-filled hydraulic shock absorbers have an additional valve with a continuous opening action. The control unit computes the optimal damping force at a cycle frequency of 1,000 per second.

The electromagnetically controlled valve selects a damping characteristic to match the current driving situation at any given moment. Higher damping force may be needed to resist body movement when cornering rapidly or braking, whereas a lower damping force will be appropriate on potholed roads and a moderate setting on poor country roads.

Dynamic suspension

The dynamic suspension of the new Audi S4 and S4 Avant is based on the layout that has made the A4 the sportiest car in the midsize class. Numerous suspension components made of aluminum reduce unsprung masses. The five-link front suspension can handle longitudinal and lateral forces separately; a firmly mounted subframe ensures exceptional rigidity for the front section. The springs and shock absorbers of the self-tracking trapezoidal rear suspension, which permits a wide luggage compartment thanks to its compact design, are aligned separately to improve response.

In keeping with the dynamic performance of the Audi S4 and S4 Avant, the suspension has been retuned. Stiffer bearings for the control arms guarantee elastokinematics for a sporty performance; lateral and camber rigidity are clearly enhanced. The minimal body movements lend the Audi S4 and the S4 Avant maximum stability, even when braking. The shock absorbers have firmer settings and the body has been lowered by 20 millimeters (0.79 in).

Handling precision - without compromise

All these measures lend the Audi S4 and the S4 Avant the driving dynamics of a sports car - their reactions are smooth, almost reflex-like; handling precision knows no compromise. The steering connects the driver with the road to provide sensitive, well-differentiated feedback.

The low-mounted steering gear transmits the steering forces via the track rods to the wheels over the shortest distance, its ratio of 16.5:1 is sporty and direct. The regulated vane-type pump, which supplies the system with hydraulic energy, always delivers only as much oil as is needed; in this way it too contributes towards high consumption efficiency. As a servotronic system, it bases the amount of assistance on road speed.

The new Audi S4 and S4 Avant are fitted with impressive cast aluminum wheels, which carry size 245/40 tires on 8J x 18 rims. As well as the standard 5 parallelspoke wheel in the S design, an additional design is available. Furthermore, there is a choice of winter wheels in two different widths, one of which is suitable for snow chains. quattro GmbH offers three 19-inch wheels with size 255/35 tires: the 5 segment-spoke design, 7 twin-spoke design and 20-spoke design (twopiece).

The large wheels provide space for a 17-inch brake system developed for maximum performance. All four disks are ventilated, the front having a diameter of 345 millimeters (13.58 in), the rear 330 millimeters (12.99 in). An innovative concept, which dispenses with the conventional cooling ducts, ensures impressive power and stability: the two halves of the disk are connected by hundreds of small metal cubes, between which a high volume of heated air can flow in a very short time. This design also lowers the weight - here too, drivers will experience the reduction in unsprung masses in the form of enhanced driving dynamics.

The black-painted brake calipers - sporting the S4 logo at the front - are of a composite design based on the floating caliper principle. The areas subject to high loads are made of nodular cast iron; the bolted-on piston housing made of aluminum conducts the heat effectively, and the calipers are extremely rigid despite being light in weight. Compared with the predecessor model, the surface of the brake pads has increased by 25 percent at the front, and as much as 60 percent at the rear. New materials increase the amount of friction.

The brakes on the Audi S4 and S4 Avant set new standards in terms of power and precision, not to mention accurate feedback provided to the driver. The electronic stabilization program ESP also uses high-precision hydraulic valves, which control pressure build-up with great accuracy. It intervenes at a later stage and is more subtle. The ESP can be switched off completely: the driver can deactivate the traction control function separately at a speed below 70 km/h (43.50 mph).

Design

The very design of the front section alludes to the power of the new Audi S4 and S4 Avant. The LED daytime driving lights in the standard-specification xenon plus headlights can be seen from afar. The single-frame grille, in platinum gray, has the typical look of the S models from Audi - its vertical double struts bear chromed inserts and the S4 badge. Two ribs define the lower trapezoidal air vents and chrome rings encase the front fog lights. An aluminum-look "blade" forms the centerpiece of the striking bumper.

The side view also reflects the athletic character of the Audi S4 and S4 Avant. Sill trims painted in the body color emphasize the width of the body; the aluminum-look exterior mirror housings gleam. The new midsize athletes have a powerful stance on the road with their 18 or 19-inch wheels, the rim spokes allow the blackpainted brake calipers to shine through. The so-called high-gloss package adds elegant touches all round the side windows with aluminum strips and black trims.

At the rear, too, the new Audi S4 and S4 Avant remain unmistakable - thanks to the badge on the trunk lid, the LED lights and the quadruple oval tailpipes. The rear bumper, incorporating a diffuser, has also been redesigned, its blade likewise in aluminum look. The spoiler - on the trunk lid of the sedan and the roof edge of the Avant - separates the airflow in a clean, defined way, further enhancing driving stability at high speeds.

Audi offers its midsize athletes in four solid colors - Ibis White, Brilliant Red, Brilliant Black and Imola Yellow - and in seven metallic and pearl effect finishes. These are Ice Silver, metallic, Quartz Gray, metallic, Meteor Gray, pearl effect, Phantom Black, pearl effect, Deep Sea Blue, pearl effect, Sprint Blue, pearl effect and Garnet Red, pearl effect. Imola Yellow and Sprint Blue are reserved exclusively for the S models.

The Audi S4 and S4 Avant are large midsize cars with a high level of everyday suitability. They are 4,717 millimeters (185.71 in) in length, with a wheelbase of 2,811 millimeters (110.67 in), 1,826 millimeters (71.89 in) in width and 1,406 (55.35 in) and 1,415 millimeters (55.71 in) in height respectively. The luggage compartment of the sedan has a capacity of 480 liters (16.95 cu. ft); the Avant has a basic capacity of 490 liters (17.30 cu. ft) and 1,430 liters (50.50 cu. ft) when the rear seat backs are folded down.

Interior

Dynamic, elegant, sophisticated - this is the interior of the new Audi S4 and S4 Avant. The ergonomics are exemplary, the amount of space generous; the electromechanical parking brakes leaves room on the centre tunnel. The interior in cool black - the roof lining is optionally available in silver - creates an atmosphere of sporty and technical expertise, underlined by the uncompromising craftsmanship so typical of Audi.

The many meticulously thought-out details are another characteristic of the brand. The S4 logos are found on the door sill trims, the leather multifunction sports steering wheel, the remote control key and on the instruments, the dials of which are gray, the needles white. Understated aluminum-look inlays provide subtle highlights; the versions with seven-speed S tronic sport aluminum-look shift paddles, mounted behind the steering wheel.

The electric sports seats feature lumbar supports and pull-out thigh supports; the standard version is upholstered in a combination of black Alcantara/leather. For the S sports seat, Silk Nappa leather is also available, with the option of a bi-color look with contrasting stitching. The climate-controlled comfort seats represent the high-end option; they are equipped with small cooling fans in the seat backs and are upholstered in black or brown leather. Customers who appreciate firm support can order the strongly contoured S sports seat with integrated head restraints. A sliding front center armrest including two 12-volt sockets comes as standard with all seat versions.

The inlays in the new Audi S4 and S4 Avant also have a sporty and individual look. Matt brushed aluminum is standard. Carbon, fine gray birch wood and genuine stainless steel mesh are optionally available. The filigree structure, consisting of numerous steel threads, feels slightly rough, but is fascinating to the touch.

Equipment and trim

The new Audi S4 and S4 Avant come off the assembly line with a wide range of standard equipment. The highlights - besides quattro drive, 18-inch wheels, sports suspension and servotronic - include many comfort and convenience features, namely automatic air conditioning, driver information system, a lighting package for the interior, leather multifunction sports steering wheel, electric sports seats with lumbar support and folding rear backrests - also for the sedan. Xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights and LEDs in the rear lights give the Audi S4 a highly distinctive look.

Audi delivers the new Audi S4 and S4 Avant, on request, with a range of high-tech systems that make driving an even more supreme and relaxed experience. These include the parking aid Audi parking system advanced with rear-view camera and Audi side assist, which monitors the blind spot during lane changes. The adaptive cruise control regulates the speed and distance from the car in front, while braking guard warns the driver of an imminent bumper-to-bumper collision.

The standard-fit tire pressure monitoring system informs the driver as soon as the tire pressure in one or several tires drops and thus provides added safety.

Audi also sets new standards when it comes to multimedia. The Audi Music Interface (AMI) allows an iPod and its entire range of control functions to be connected; an up-to-date mobile phone and its functions can be fully integrated into the Bluetooth car phone. The navigation system with DVD is combined with the competition-beating MMI operating system. The radio tuner receives digital programs on request and the luxury sound system from the exclusive Danish brand Bang & Olufsen boasts a 505-watt amplifier that controls 15 speakers through ten channels.

The range of options for the Audi S4 and S4 Avant includes other excellent features such as a three-zone automatic air conditioning system, a convenient key for keyless entry, a high-beam assistant and the dynamic cornering light system adaptive light. An electric tailgate and a large panoramic glass sunroof are available for the Audi S4 Avant. The 19-inch wheels, the active sport differential, the seven-speed S tronic and dynamic driving system Audi drive select incorporating adaptive damping and dynamic steering underscore the leading role in terms of sporty expertise that the Audi S4 and S4 Avant enjoy in their competitive field.

Audi will begin delivery of its new S models in March 2009. The basic price is particularly competitive: 50,950 euros for the sedan, 52,600 euros for the Avant.

Images : 2009 AUDI S4/S4 Avant - New images

Images : 2009 Audi S4




Images : 2009 Audi S4 Avant




Images : 2009 Audi S4/S4 Avant Technical Images




Images : 2009 AUDI S4/S4 Avant - First released images

Images : 2009 Audi S4





Images : 2009 Audi S4 Avant




[Source : AUDI]
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Boulogne Billancourt Cedex : October 20, 2008 - Renault and the specialist video game publisher Electronic Arts have spent almost a year working together and sharing their passion for the automobile.



From November 21, video games fans will have the chance to test drive New Mégane Coupé ahead of its release thanks to the latest instalment of the Need For Speed franchise which will be called Need For Speed: Undercover'.


Mégane Coupé's sporty, racy looks convinced the developers of Need For Speed to incorporate the new model in the prestigious line-up of exceptional cars featured in the game.
The game's development team sought to reproduce New Mégane's outstanding performance and handling characteristics as accurately as possible based on information supplied by
Renault.


The resulting graphics, sense of power and roadholding ability are simply stunning, while the new 'Heroic Driving' graphic engine ensures a breathtaking driving experience at the wheel of Mégane Coupé which players will be sure to appreciate!


Created 14 years ago, Need For Speed evolves every year to reproduce the thrills of street racing and is considered by players as the uncontested benchmark franchise, thanks to its prestige line-up of cars and incomparable features and graphics. The game is developed and distributed by the world's leading video games publisher, Electronic Arts, which boasts a catalogue of innovative games that explore new limits in the intensity of the immersionexperience.


More information on New Renault Mégane Coupé's starring role in Need For Speed : Undercover can be found at the game's dedicated micro-site www.agentM09.fr. Visitors to the
site will get a chance to enjoy an 'AgentM09' New Mégane Coupé game and also view the game's official trailer.


Images : New Renault Mégane Coupé




[Source : RENAULT]
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MARTORELL, October 20, 2008 - 953 kilometres and 29 mountain passes in Italy, Austria and Switzerland in only 22 hours is the magnificent feat achieved by the SEAT Altea freetrack on the gruelling mountain tour carried out last weekend by Tyrolean Gerhard Plattner and Austrian Franz Doppler. During the challenge, SEAT’s all-roader demonstrated its magnificent performance along the steep and winding route.



The difficult event involved crossing 24 mountain passes in 24 hours. From the outset in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, both Gerhard Plattner and Franz Doppler experienced first-hand the exceptional performance of the 140 hp Altea freetrack 2.0 TDI with four-wheel drive. The car’s hydro-mechanical connection and AWD Haldex electronic control unit provided progressive tractive force at all times to deal with all types of rough terrain.

The drivers got encouraged with the idea of taking the challenge a step further, and so they did. 22 hours later, Plattner and Doppler had already covered the entire distance, but had crossed 29 mountain passes.

Upon completion, Plattner and Doppler commented that “the SEAT Altea freetrack was the perfect vehicle to drive on this tour. We’ve driven on all kinds of surfaces, including a short snow-covered road, and the car behaved perfectly. One of the big surprises was the fuel consumption – only 7.1 l/100 km, even when we spent the whole time driving on winding uphill and downhill roads.”

The 140 hp Altea freetrack 2.0 TDI with four-wheel drive is one of the Spanish company’s high-performance all-road versions, along with the other Diesel, a front-wheel drive 140 hp 2.0 TDI and the petrol powered four-wheel drive 200 hp 2.0 TSI.

[Source : SEAT]
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TORRANCE, CA. - To illustrate the versatility of the new 2009 Toyota Venza a specially modified show vehicle by Five Axis will make its public debut at the 2008 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas from November 4-7.


The Five Axis Venza Active Sports Versatility (AS V) was created to illustrate the versatile applications of the new 2009 Toyota Venza with an emphasis on active sports. It is outfitted with several features offering unique solutions for the transport and storage of all types of winter sports equipment.

The rear of the vehicle houses a very unique utility system. Created by Magna Car Top Systems, an Integrated Cargo Carrier (ICC) stow away rack system provides numerous opportunities for transporting a variety of wet and dry goods such as skis and bicycles.

To complement the ICC system, Five Axis designed and created a multi-purpose rear cargo unit that allows for storage of various items. This hideaway design offers both privacy and protection from other heavier items that can be easily stored on top of the unit. The system also allows for isolated storage of messy items, offering further protection to the interior.

ASV exterior body enhancements include new front and rear bumpers and over-fenders for a more rugged appearance. Wider 20 x 10.5-inch wheels and larger diameter tires also complement the new look of the Venza AS V.

To best illustrate the active sports theme, an emphasis on winter sports was chosen. The Magna Car Top Systems' ICC unit is fitted with a unique snowboard and ski carrier. At the SEMA Show the Venza ASV will be hitched to a trailer mounted with a snowmobile to display its towing capability.

Finally, a Five Axis custom-blended earth tone color palette of Lunar White and Bronze accents finish off the exterior for a fresh reference to some of latest trends in winter fashion.

Exterior Modifications:

• Five Axis custom body enhancement
  
• Five Axis custom paint and accents
  
• Five Axis AD R6:F_SPEC wheels
  
• -Front 20"x10.5"
  -Rear 20"x10.5"
  
• Yokohama Advan ST tires
  
• -Front 305/45ZR20
  -Rear 305/45ZR20
  
• Five Axis custom exhaust finishers
  
• Custom multi-purpose rear cargo storage unit
  
• Magna Car Top Systems Integrated Cargo Carrier

Brake Modifications:

• TRD Big Brakes
  
• -Front 15" diameter
  -Rear 13.6" diameter
  
• TRD forged calipers
  -Front 6 piston
  -Rear 4 piston
  

Images : 2009 Toyota Venza AS V By Five Axis



[Source : TOYOTA]
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TORRANCE, CA. - The new 2009 Toyota Venza underwent a unique transformation by Street Image resulting in the creation of the SportLux Venza performance show car. The Venza SportLux will be displayed at the Toyota exhibit throughout the 2008 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas from November 4-7.




The conceptual vision of the Toyota SportLux Venza by the Street Image design team was centered on a vehicle which could be offered as a factory tuned model. Taking cues from European tuners, Street Image added an assortment of subtle, yet aggressive, body kit modifications including a six-piece lip kit enhancement, rear hatch spoiler, custom grille and integrated hood scoop.

Its performance driven stance reflects the Toyota SportLux Venza’s substantial boost in power output. Among its many performance modifications are several components from Toyota Racing Development (TRD) including a supercharger kit. The SportLux Venza’s power surge is complemented with a height adjustable coil over tuned suspension and rides on Chrome Cognac No 20 Wheels measuring 24-inches and Toyo Proxy 4 performance tires. The massive wheels are controlled by 15-inch front and 13.6-inch rear TRD Big Brakes with forged calipers.

Street Image added appropriate interior comfort and convenience modifications to the SportLux Venza including special Black & Burgundy leather seating. A state-of-the-art Eclipse entertainment system features a premium navigation system and includes front and rear video and high-powered audio. The overall effect gives passengers a refined sports car feel without sacrificing the utilitarian appeal of the Venza.


Exterior Modifications:

• Six piece lip kit enhancement
  
• Rear hatch spoiler
  
• Integrated hood scoop
  
• Flash window film
  
• Custom grille
  
• Mirror turn signals
  
• Chrome Cognac No. 20 wheels Front 24" x 9.5" Rear 24" x 10.0"
  
• Toyo Proxy 4 performance tires : Front 255/30ZR24, Rear 275/30ZR20
  
• Dual center exiting stainless steel exhaust

Interior Modifications:

• Seating in black and burgundy leather upholstery
  
• Accent upholstery in black suede
  
• -Headliner and sun visors
  -Pillars
  
• Steering wheel upholstered in black leather
  
• Accent lighting
  
• Color matched accents

Engine and Bay Modifications:

• TRD supercharger, oil filler cap and high pressure radiator cap
  
• Cold air intake system
  
• Hose Techniques silicone vacuum hose, couplers and t-bolt clamps
  
• Color match accents
  
• Polished accents pieces and hard lines
  
• Optima D34/78 Yellow Top deep cycle battery
  
• Counter sunk stainless steel metric hardware

Suspension Modifications:

• Height adjustable coil over suspension

Brake Modifications:

• TRD Big Brakes
  
• -Front 15"diameter
  -Rear 13.6" diameter
  
• TRD forged calipers
  
• -Front 6 piston
  -Rear 4 piston
  
• Braided stainless steel brake lines
  
• Motul RBF 600 brake fluid

In Car Entertainment:

• Eclipse AVN6620 - In-dash navigation with 7? wide TFT display and dual DVD multi-source receiver x 1; SIR-ECL1 - Sirius Satellite Radio tuner x 1; MRE-700W - 7? wide screen monitors x 2; XA4200 - 1000 watt 4 channel class D amplifier with channel flex crossover x 1; ZA1200 - 1500 watt 1 channel class D subwoofer amplifier x 2; SC8355 5 1/4" component 3-way speaker system x 1; SC6500 6 1/2" component 2-way speaker system x 1; and SW8000 10? dual coil subwoofer x 2
  
• Cascade APS90 continuous power supply
  
• Headrest mounted monitors for rear passenger entertainment
  
• Custom false floor subwoofer enclosure
  
• Black suede trunk area upholstery

[Source : TOYOTA]
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OITA ; AUTOPOLIS Racing Course, Japan : October 19, 2008 - the SUPER GT IN KYUSHU 300 km (lap = 4.674 km x 65 laps) took place at the Autopolis in Oita Pref., as Round 8 of the 2008 AUTOBACS SUPER GT. The GT500 class winners were the XANAVI NISMO GT-R driven by Satoshi Motoyama and Benoit Treluyer, in their third victory of the season.



The winner of the pole position in Saturday's qualifying, Benoit Treluyer, was the starting driver in the XANAVI NISMO GT-R, and after the start he proceeded to pull away from the competition at a fast pace and open up a significant lead. Motoyama took over the wheel for the second half of the race and drove on unthreatened, having never once given up the lead except during the pit stop in a perfect “pole-to-checkered" win.


This was the XANAVI NISMO GT-R team's third win of the season and their first since round two. For the new Nissan GT-R that debuted in SUPER GT this season, this is its sixth victory in the first eight rounds of the season.


In the GT300 class the DAISHIN ADVAN Z driven by Takayuki Aoki and Tomonobu Fujii came from second position on the starting grid to score their first win of the season.


In this season's nine-round SUPER GT series, the next round to be held at Fuji Speedway on November 8 and 9 will be the ninth and final round of the season. With this win, the XANAVI NISMO GT-R team's Motoyama and Treluyer now stand at the top of the drivers' ranking, but they won't be able to clinch the title until the final round. In this debut year for the new Nissan GT-R, they will be battling with their Honda NSX and Lexus SC430 rivals at Fuji Speedway.

(Spectators: 28,800)

Winner Comments

No. 23 XANAVI NISMO GT-R [GT500]


Satoshi Motoyama: "I'd say I'm more relieved than happy. This was a race we had to win (to stay in contention for the title), so there was considerable pressure on both of us. What's more, the temperatures were high this weekend, which made it difficult in terms of tire performance. But, despite being understandable nervous, Benoit went out and got us the pole position yesterday. The team's pit work was fast too, so you have to say that this is a victory won by the whole team. The pit work had been fast going into my stint and I had a margin from Benoit to begin with, so I just pushed as hard as I thought the tires, brakes and the machine as a whole would tolerate. I think the result was a good one. We will be carrying a heavy load of handicap weights in the final round, but every point we can win will increase our chance at winning the title. And I am looking to [celebrating] after the race is over."


Benoit Treluyer: "I feel great. It was a high-pressure weekend, so I'm really relieved. It has been a good weekend for the whole team too. We will have a heavy load of handicap weights in the final race, so I can't say how things will go. But I'm just very happy right now. I knew that if I got passed on the first corner it would be difficult recovering the lead, so I really concentrated at the start. Then I worked right away to get a good margin over the pack, and after that I ran with an eye on how the tires were holding out. I had to pass a lot of back-lappers but I was able to hand over the machine to Satoshi with no problem. I'm glad that I was able to do my job."

No. 81 DAISHIN ADVAN Z [GT300]


Takayuki Aoki:"To tell you the truth, I am quite relieved. I didn't think it would take us this long to get a win. We just lost the win at SUGO (round 5) and I think there was considerable frustration throughout the team. I saw this as our last chance for a win, so I'm very happy that we made it happen. The race went just according to plan. Since there was a need to save the tires, I just kept the leader in sight, knowing that we could win in the end. I thought the tires would lose grip sooner, but Yokohama made us some good tires and I was able to hold out to the pit stop. With a 30-second margin at that point, I knew we could make it. We have had a lot of tough races this year, but now I feel redeemed. It will be tough to win the title at this point, but we are not giving up. I am going to go all out in the final round."

Tomonobu Fujii: "I came to DAISHIN with the intention of winning the championship but have been unable to get the results I wanted, so I am very relieved to get this win. It was tough going in the Friday practice, so the team worked late into the night to make some major improvements in the machine. That changed the flow and Aoki san went out and got us a good position in the qualifying. After that, I knew that we could win if everyone did their jobs as they can. In the race, Aoki san kept the lead No. 11 machine just in front of him throughout his stint and our pit work was fast. I knew that the first lap out of the pit would be important, and since we had made our pit stop early, I tried to gain as much ground as I could before the others settled in. The final round won't be easy but I am not going to give up until it is over."

AUTOPOLIS
Length : 4.674km x 65Laps =303.81km
Weather: Fine
Course : Dry

2008 AUTOBACS SUPER GT Round 8
SUPER GT in KYUSHU 300km : GT-500 Race result




SUPER GT in KYUSHU 300km: GT-300 Race result



Driver Championship Standings : GT-500



Driver Championship Standings : GT-300



Constructor Championship Standings : GT-500



Constructor Championship Standings : GT-300




[Source : 2008 AUTOBACS SUPER GT - NISSAN]
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