DAY1 : January 30, 2009 - SS7 and SS8 cancelled: Loeb leads Rally Ireland after day one

Event organisers stopped Friday’s opening day of Rally Ireland early because of flooded roads - a decision which means Sebastien Loeb will carry the 44sec rally lead he held after SS6 into Saturday’s competition.


WEATHER WREAKS HAVOC - NIGHT STAGES CANCELLED
Concerns mounted during the day as incessant rain poured down on northwest Ireland. Ultimately, organisers were left with no choice and cancelled the two scheduled stages around Fardross and Murley in Co Fermanagh.

"We are especially disappointed for all the fans who were looking forward to seeing the starts of the FIA World Rally Championship on their doorstep," according to Gordon Noble, Clerk of the Course. "All we can do is look forward to better conditions tomorrow."

The stages will not be rescheduled.

Loeb leads Sordo by 44 seconds, with the BP Ford Abu Dhabi of Mikko Hirvonen in third ahead of tomorrow's six stages around Sloughan Glen in Co Tyrone and Ballinamallard and Tempo, Co Fermanagh.

Leading Irishmen are Gareth MacHale in ninth and Eamonn Boland in tenth.

The drivers expressed disappointment about the cancellation but were not surprised given the difficulties encountered earlier in the day, particularly in the morning.

"I don't have a lot of information on the reasons for cancellation but if the organisation decided to cancel these stages they must have had a good reason," Loeb said. "When we saw the conditions this morning and it wasn't cancelled ... if it was worse then I think it was the right choice."

Better news is forecast on the weather front for tomorrow. According to Met Eireann, the region will have further spells of heavy rain but these should clear in the afternoon. Winds should moderate.


CITROEN MAINTAIN 1-2 AFTER FIRST SIX STAGES
Loeb's fortunes have been transformed from the early morning stages when he said a boat would have been preferable to a car such were the atrocious driving conditions. He attributed this to a change to snow tyres, which he has mastered a lot better than his competitors.

“Yeah, it’s going okay,” he said. “I didn’t want to push earlier, we didn’t have the right tyre so we went carefully, but now we can push hard.”

Sordo finished the sixth stage four seconds behind Loeb, having put behind him the earlier problems with his brakes.

“On the last two everything was okay,” he said. “It feels really good to drive with the snow tyre. The feeling is nice. I’m confident with the car, the tyres, the notes - everything is perfect.”

Estonian Urmo Aava, the surprise leader after the first stage this morning, relinquished third place when his Ford Focus spun off the road and into a ditch full of water. Spectators helped him get the car back on the road but he had lost so much time that he decided he had had enough for one day and retired.

Mikko Hirvonen moved into third but he was left cursing his bad luck in the race to catch the Citroens.

“I’m trying to take the fight to Sordo but I stalled the engine at a junction on this one and that cost me some time. I’ll keep on moving,” he said.

Australian Chris Atkinson limped home. His Citroen took a battering, incurring left-hand front corner damage, a broken front bumper, a left-hand rear puncture and signs of a heavy bang on the co-driver’s door.

“About a couple of kilometres before the finish we aquaplaned, spun and hit a pole of the outside of the corner,” he said. “We should be able to carry on but Stephane [Prevot, co-driver] has a sore shoulder, so we’ll have to see.

AAVA LEADS AFTER MORNING STAGES
"It’s really fantastic - I almost can’t say anything - it’s a dream come true," Aava said. "We made a good choice with the winter tyre, and it looks like Mikko and Sebastien made some small mistakes, so we have an advantage. Now we have to keep on driving. I don’t know how Loeb is going so fast on the slick tyre - he must be crazy."

Ominously, his lead had been reduced from 22sec to 6.7sec by Loeb, after the Frenchman took his second stage win of the day.

After Stage 1 Loeb described conditions as "impossible" and told Rally Ireland he was "not taking any chances". Similarly, Dani Sordo was amazed at the difficulties he faced on Stage One.

"It was an incredible stage - very difficult to drive and the final part was very dangerous," he said.

Conditions appeared to improve somewhat for Loeb in Stage 2 - but he was still looking forward to getting back to base!

"It was much better but conditions were still extremely hard," he said. "On the first stage I did not want to take any chances, on the second stage we had much better grip but it is a long way to the finish."

However, Loeb managed to master these conditions better than anyone and he leads the rally.

On a typically wet, windy late January morning, the conditions proved challenging for even some of the best drivers in the world. The overwhelming consensus after this morning's first three stages was that, if anything, Rally Ireland 2009 was going to be even tougher than anticipated.

Jari-Matti Latvala got off to a flyer on the 22.25km first stage around Glenboy on the Sligo/Leitrim border but the signs were ominous for the Finn right from the start.

"It was very difficult, in some places I saw almost nothing," he told Rally Ireland after Stage One. However, worse was to come on Stage Two, when he was forced to retire from the race when he punctured his front left wheel and suffered a broken track control arm and broken drive shaft. A right rear puncture compounded the misery and there was no going on.

The second part of what will be a very long day's rallying, starts again at 13.00 hours and concentrates on the Aughnasheelan area of north Co Leitrim. Large crowds are expected later for the highly anticipated night stage of the event, which begins at 19.00 hours in the Murley district of Co Fermanagh.

Day 1 : Driver Overall Standing


Hi-Light Images : 2009 WRC - Rally Ireland Day-1

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[Source : 2009WRC, FORD ,CITROEN, Official Rally Ireland]
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• Toyota Aygo revised for 2009
  
• New Aygo Blue and Aygo Black feature models
  
• Aygo Blue with Bluetooth, air conditioning and exclusive Cayman Blue metallic paint finish
  
• Aygo Black with 14-inch alloys, Alcantara and leather trim and exclusive black metallic paint finish
  
• Toyota Optimal Drive improves performance and emissions from award-winning 1.0-litre VVT-i engine
  
• CO₂ emissions reduced to 106g/km
  
• More than 100,000 sold annually in Europe
  
• On sale now, on-the-road prices from £7,040

PORTMOUTH : January 30, 2009 - Aygo is a success story in miniature. Since launch in 2005 this small but perfectly formed Toyota has amassed more than 100,000 sales a year across Europe, its combination of low cost of ownership, contemporary styling and fun-to-drive character making it a top performer in the expanding A-segment.


Now the factors that have made Aygo a winner have been further sharpened to make it an even stronger proposition. The result is the new 2009 Aygo, on sale now.

The revised Aygo range includes two new feature models, Aygo Blue and Aygo Black, with exclusive equipment specifications, plus the established Aygo and Aygo+, in three and five-door body styles. All are powered by the Engine of the Year class-winning 1.0-litre VVT-i petrol unit, with five-speed manual or MultiMode transmission.

Sales Success
British drivers were quick to take Aygo to their hearts and the car was named Top Gear Car of the Year in 2005 – an honour it held jointly with the Bugatti Veyron. Since launch more than 44,000 have been sold in the UK, while Europe-wide the figure has already passed the 300,000 mark.

Aygo’s sales performance has been helped by rising fuel costs and taxation linked to emissions: with its low on-the-road price, rock-bottom 1E insurance group, combined cycle fuel consumption of 62.8mpg and £35 (Band B) Vehicle Excise Duty bill, Aygo makes perfect economic sense.

Market indicators suggest Aygo is well-positioned to benefit from a trend for car owners to downsize: the A-segment is expected to grow from 4.7 to 7.0 per cent of total European car sales by 2010, growth powered in part by the wider adoption of emissions-based tax plans.

It’s a car with big appeal for younger drivers, and it has attracted a large number of women drivers, too, who account for 68 per cent of European sales.

1.0-litre VVT-i engine with Toyota Optimal Drive
Toyota’s three-cylinder 1.0-litre VVT-i petrol engine, a category winner in the International Engine of the Year awards in 2007 and 2008, now benefits from the application of Toyota Optimal Drive, a raft of technologies that deliver greater efficiency, improved performance and lower emissions.

When the engine was first launched in Aygo in 2005, it produced 109g/km of carbon dioxide. By early 2008, this figure had been reduced to 108g/km and for the 2009 Aygo it has fallen even further, to 106g/km.

The engineering improvements that make this possible include a new cut-off system that saves fuel during gear changes and the adoption of low viscosity oil for less engine resistance.

With its all-aluminium construction, the 1.0-litre VVT-i is the lightest internal combustion engine on the market, weighing just 67kg. It is also the most powerful in the A-segment, producing 67bhp (68 DIN hp), and it delivers class-leading torque of 93Nm at 3,600rpm.

To provide better driveability in urban traffic, the development team worked to ensure strong torque at low to medium engine speeds by optimising the intake system, setting the appropriate manifold length and giving the intake ports a smaller diameter. The three-cylinder configuration also promotes the availability of torque in the low to mid-range, with less “metal” to move at lower speeds.

The engine remains remarkably fuel-frugal, with consumption improved from 61.4 to 62.8mpg in combined cycle driving with five-speed manual transmission (the figure is unchanged for versions with the MultiMode gearbox at 61.4mpg).

Design and Refinement
Designed and built in Europe, Aygo is 100 per cent Toyota. Its design features familiar elements, such as the characteristic bulge around the Toyota badge on the bonnet and the triangular quarter light. Overall Aygo’s appearance projects a sporty and fun character, with a high quality finish and a comfortable interior.

This spirit is reinforced in the 2009 Aygo, with a re-sculpted front grille and bumper that emphasise the car’s low centre of gravity, giving it a more ground-hugging appearance. The extended front bumper increases overall length by 10mm and allows for neater integration of front fog lights, when specified.

At the rear the rear lamp clusters have gained circular chrome detailing to accentuate their appearance, with a dark finish to the cover to match the look of the headlamps. There are also new-design wheel covers and 14-inch alloys.

On five-door versions the B-pillar is finished in black for a smarter, sportier look and colour side protection mouldings are introduced on the new Aygo Blue feature model.

Aygo Black comes with new Alcantara and leather upholstery and leather trim for the steering wheel and gear knob.

Noise, Vibration and Harshness Improvements
True to Toyota’s philosophy of kaizen – continuous improvement – Aygo’s NVH levels have been reduced. Sound-absorbing felt has been added to the interior A and C-pillar trims; thicker, denser materials have been used for the package tray; and asphalt sheets have been added between the carpets and vehicle floor.

Under the bonnet, a new, damped engine pulley has been added to reduce vibration in the engine bay.

Aygo Blue and Aygo Black
In addition to the regular three and five-door Aygo and Aygo+, Toyota has introduced two new feature models for 2009.

Aygo Blue puts the emphasis on comfort and convenience, with air conditioning and Bluetooth connectivity provided as standard, plus an exclusive Cayman Blue metallic paint finish.

Aygo Black ups the style factor with 14-inch alloy wheels, Alcantara and leather upholstery and leather trim for the steering wheel and gear knob, together with a black metallic exterior. This specification is available exclusively with manual transmission; further Aygo Black models with air conditioning added to the specification are available with a choice of both manual and MultiMode transmission.

Accessory Packs
Owners can add more features to their Aygo with a choice of two accessory packs. The Style pack for Aygo Blue (£580) provides alloy wheels, front fog lamps and front scuff plates. The Xtra Protected pack, available for Aygo Blue (£330), includes rear parking sensors, mud flaps and carpets. For Aygo Black the Xtra Protected Pack (£380) also provides side and rear bumper protection mouldings.

Pricing :











[Source : TOYOTA]
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PORTSMOUTH : January 30, 2009 - There is no questioning iQ’s status as one of the most fuel-efficient cars on the market, but a new hypermiling challenge has seen the tiny Toyota perform way beyond its official mpg figures.



Piloted by two of the team from the iQ blog, a standard iQ2 with a 1.0-litre VVT-i petrol engine, broke through 500 miles on a single tank of fuel. What makes the achievement all the more remarkable is that this was no finely tuned marathon attempt, but a gruelling drive through some of the most congested town centres in the south and midlands of England and Wales.


Setting out from Brighton on 25 January, the team tagged 18 cities in two days on a route that took them as far west as Cardiff and as far north as Wolverhampton. With atrocious weather conditions and rush hour traffic to contend with, there was pessimism about reaching the target, given that the theoretical range from a full 32-litre tank in an iQ is 462 miles.


But in spite of wind, rain, congestion and the need to run the heater, headlights and wipers – all a drain on fuel consumption – the car managed 504.2 miles before ending its journey in central Oxford. That works out at 71.6mpg, compared to an official combined cycle figure of 65.7mpg.

[Source : TOYOTA]
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SAN FRANCISCO, CA : January 29, 2009 - Anticipation is growing as Volvo Cars of North America, LLC, (VCNA) today announced pricing of the exciting new 2010 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD small premium utility. With a starting price of just $37,200* for the well-equipped XC60, buyers will have it all: Class-leading safety, stunning design and unrivaled driving dynamics. The new Volvo XC60 goes on sale this March.


The XC60 is Volvo's entry into the growing small premium utility segment. Features such as leather seating surfaces with a power driver's seat, SIRIUS satellite radio (with complimentary six-month subscription), hands-free Bluetooth connectivity, HD Radio technology with USB and AUX ports are all standard. As a special introductory offer, the unique Panorama moonroof will be offered at no charge. Customers may also opt for Volvo's DVD-based navigation system with integrated back-up camera and two new colors: Lime Grass Green or Terra Bronze.

Continuing Volvo's quest as a pioneer and leader in vehicle safety systems, the XC60 introduces a new world's first "City Safety" as standard equipment. City Safety is a driver-support system aimed at preventing or mitigating collisions occurring at speeds of 19 mph or less.

The new Volvo XC60 is the first production expression of Volvo's new design DNA. As a crossover, it artfully blends a dynamic mix of two car styles. Down below, the unmistakable, immensely capable XC pumps up its muscles creating a strong athletic body that is mated with high ground clearance and large wheels. Up top the flowing lines create the sporty charisma of a coupe.

The 3.0-liter turbocharged T6 engine is based on Volvo's naturally aspirated 3.2-liter inline all-aluminum six-cylinder that was introduced in the Volvo S80 in 2008. The T6 delivers 281 horsepower with torque of no less than 295 lb.-ft., combining for best-in-class performance. Maximum torque is available from just 1,500 rpm and remains on tap throughout the rev range. The result is swift acceleration and impressive passing performance. Volvo's all-wheel-drive system with Instant Traction is standard in the new XC60.

The XC60 is also included in Volvo's recently announced Complimentary Factory Scheduled Maintenance program, which covers the first three years or 36,000 miles (whichever comes first). Complimentary Factory Scheduled Maintenance helps reduce the cost of ownership by providing customers the first four maintenance visits to their Volvo retailer as complimentary. A wide range of services are covered by the program, including oil and filter changes, cabin filter replacement, complete fluid level top-offs and a check of the vehicle's on-board diagnostic system.

VCNA, part of Volvo Car Corporation in Gothenburg, Sweden, provides marketing, sales, parts, service, technology and training support to Volvo automobile retailers in the United States, and oversees Volvo operations in Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.

The 2009 Volvo Cars model lineup includes the award-winning S40 and its wagon counterpart the V50; the award-winning XC90; the sporty S60 sedan; the flagship S80 luxury sedan; versatile V70 wagon and rugged XC70 (Cross Country); the stunning C70 retractable hardtop convertible and the dynamic C30.

2010 Volvo XC60 T6 Pricing




[Source : VOLVO]
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The all-new Mercedes E-Class has been officially unveiled. There are some spyshots of the E-class coupé appear on the net. And now it's the time before new E-class estate make its debut.


The MB-Exotenforum has shown the spyshots of the new E-class estate. The back wagon be covered the various design attributes, you can make idea for the large space of the wagon holds over its sedan trunk.







[Source : MB-Exotenforum]
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• In Galia Blue and Lumina Orange combined with an exclusive exterior
  
• Personalised interior design with several distinguishing elements
  
• Available with four engine choices – two petrol and two Diesel

MARTORELL : January 29, 2009 - The new Color Edition versions for the Ibiza SC are now on sale across the SEAT sales network, with new personalisation packages that increase the model’s exclusivity and sportiness on both the interior and exterior. This vehicle is unique and clearly different than the rest of the Ibiza range models, and with more customisation possibilities on the Ibiza SC, it is bound to satisfy even the most demanding customers.


The exterior looks are greatly enhanced by either the Lumina Orange or Galia Blue colours, and the car’s image is further strengthened by the black roof paint and eye-catching 17 inch rims.

The interior gains a greater level of customisation with the addition of body colour elements such as the gearknob, door panels, ventilation nozzle bezels, dashboard inserts and on the area surrounding the air vent between the steering wheel and the door.

The Color Edition versions are only available in the Sport finish and with the following engine choices – the 85 hp 1.4 and 105 hp 1.6 petrol engines and the 90 hp and 105 hp 1.9 TDI Diesel versions.

The Lumina Orange package includes 17 inch “Saga” alloy rims, dark glass, Mágico Black roof and park position door mirrors, Lumina Orange interior inserts, Carbón Black steering wheel spokes and orange stitching on the steering wheel and front seats.

The Galia Blue version features 17 inch “Saga” rims, dark glass, Candy White roof, park position door mirrors and grille surround, body blue interior inserts, Carbón Black steering wheel spokes and blue stitching on the steering wheel and front seats.

Besides, the Galia Blue Color Edition version is also available with 17 inch white alloy rims at no extra cost.

Moving on to the optional equipment, customers can choose from a wide array featuring front and rear seat head airbags, side airbags, climate control, dual xenon headlights + AFS + headlight washers and USB port + Bluetooth, among others.

The Naranja Lumina Color Edition can already be acquired in the SEAT sales network. Meanwhile the Ibiza SC in Galia Blue won’t be available until mid February.

The DSG version is now available in the dealership network

The new Ibiza is already available in the SEAT sales network equipped with the seven-speed DSG gearbox and 105 hp 1.6 petrol engine in the Reference, Style and Sport finishes. In Spain, this model costs 1,320 € more than the 1.6 manual gearbox in all three versions on offer.







[Source : SEAT]
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• Peugeot’s lowest CO₂ and most-economical car – the 107 – has arrived
  
• In the UK, and in Europe, Peugeot sells more low CO₂ cars
  
• New style and design features enhance youthful spirit of 107

COVENTRY : January 29, 2009 - The new Peugeot 107 is now available in UK showrooms with three trim levels available, starting with the Urban Lite model at £7,595 (on-the-road). All 107s benefit from a new look, an enthusiastic 1.0-litre petrol engine but with exceptionally low CO₂ of just 106g/km and economy of 62.7 mpg (on the official Combined Cycle).



Its love of the city dates from the Spring of 2005, and with more than 322,000 units produced (to the end of September 2008) and owners among the best ambassadors of its numerous qualities, the 107 provides an efficient and clever response to the needs of urban mobility and it does so now with a ‘new smile on its face’.

The popular and extra-equipped Urban model has standard features over the Urban Lite that include body-coloured items, electric front windows, side airbags and remote central door locking, and the choice of either manual and 2-Tronic (an electronically controlled manual that operates as an automatic) transmission.

The new Verve model is a top-of-the-range Special Edition that includes as standard air conditioning, 14” alloy wheels and a rev counter, and exclusive availability of the new Mandalin Orange paintwork (as pictured).

Appreciated for its fun-and-youthful appearance, a stylish and trendy design, for its handling and low running costs with low road tax (currently just £35) and low emissions, the 107 has a user satisfaction level way above the market average.

For 2009, a new 107 features a design update with enhanced specification. The 107 has lost none of its sparkling appeal, both in its three- and five-door versions, and continues to express being ‘cool’ and ‘energetic’.


Nevertheless it has evolved stylistically with a new front-end style that reflects a sharper and fuller personality.

The new profile of the lower front panel has more substance and robustness. It repositions the number plate in the lower section, like other Peugeot range models, and features a redesign of the contours of an air intake now featuring a cross-link grille. This new lower front panel incorporates side vents complete with grille and a decorative two-part insert, which can house the fog lights that are available as an accessory. An original and highly contemporary refinement radiates from this design with a wide chrome insert that accentuates the new bumper capping.

New 14″ ‘Cordouan’ wheel trims styled with a seven-spoke design reinforce the new car’s distinctive vitality. At the rear, the style of the 107 continues to display an attractive aspect with its dark glass tailgate/rear windscreen separating the angled contours of the rear lights.

Two all-new colours ‘Mandalin Orange’ and ‘Electra Blue’ supplement the existing range of Raven Black, Citrus Yellow, Laser Red, Carbon Grey and Zircon Grey. The passenger compartment is designed to accentuate the exterior colour with contrasting or matching trims that add emphasis or an imaginative touch.

Simple and functional, the interior of the 107 is also brimming with originality – the seats feature integral head restraints, a distinctive orange back-lit translucent panel for the heating/ventilation or air conditioning system (incorporating graphics with a modern feel), and a single instrument panel from which a rev counter is placed above.

Interior trims have developed in line with changes to style and body colours. A new ‘Code’ trim, accompanied by a silver grey bead on the seat surrounds. The Urban level retains its predominantly grey ‘City’ mesh trim but also features highlights linked to the sparkling new body colours. This design is another aspect likely to have wide appeal with customers, complementing the new front design aspect and its wider use of chrome decoration.

With further reduced fuel consumption and even closer attention paid to environmental-friendliness, the 107 highlights the economy of its engines and the frugality of its greenhouse gas emissions, both on the three cylinder petrol engine:


This environmental performance contributes to Peugeot’s excellent result in terms of greenhouse gas emissions: Peugeot is the leading European manufacturer of cars emitting less than 120g of CO₂/km (in 2007), and by a greater amount in the UK too.

The 107 is even more practical - short and able to seat up to four people, the 107 offers a boot volume of 200dm3 VDA to the height of the seat backs and 139dm3 under the tilting rear parcel shelf (due to the parcel shelf’s low position). The design of the rear parcel shelf has been improved to allow better access to the boot and for better use of the 477mm available between the sill and the rear seat backs. The folding rear seats liberate a total volume of 751dm3 and a usable length of 1093mm.

Finally, the 107 is as reassuring safe to drive, as ever …
Awarded 4 EuroNCAP stars in the adult protection test and 3 stars in the child protection test due to its design, safety equipment (up to six air bags can be fitted) and easily mastered road holding capabilities, the 107 ensures peace of mind for its occupants. A city car par excellence, EuroNCAP also awarded it 2 stars for the protection of pedestrians.



[Source : PEUGEOT]
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STUTTGART : January 29, 2009 - Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is adding yet another new model to the second generation of the 911 model series: the new GT3 even more powerful, faster, and refined than its predecessor.


In developing the most sporting and dynamic road-going 911 with a normal-aspiration power unit, Porsche has applied a wide range of know-how gained in motorsport. Indeed, this is precisely why the new GT3 is truly impressive not only on the road, but also on the race track.

The new 911 GT3 is making its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show on 3 March, with Europe-wide sales starting in May.

The 911 GT3 offers an even higher standard above all in two key areas: performance and driving dynamics. Now the proven six-cylinder naturally-aspirated power unit develops maximum output of 435 bhp (320 kW), up 20 bhp over its predecessor. This results first and foremost from an increase in engine capacity by 200 cc to 3.8 litres and from the improved gas cycle: now not only the intake, but for the first time also the exhaust camshafts are adjusted by VarioCam.

A further important point is that, through its upgraded power and performance, the boxer engine also offers a significant increase in torque at medium engine speeds, a benefit of particular significance in everyday motoring. Clearly, this also means a further improvement in performance, the new GT3 accelerating from a standstill to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds and reaching 160 km/h in 8.2 seconds. Top speed is 312 km/h or 194 mph.

The second highlight in developing the 911 GT3 to an even higher standard was to further improve the car’s driving dynamics: For the first time the 911 GT3 comes with a particularly sporting variant of PSM Porsche Stability Management, offering the option to deactivate both Stability Control (SC) and Traction Control (TC) in separate steps. And to give the driver unrestricted, individual control over the driving dynamics of his car, these functions are not reactivated automatically even under the most extreme driving conditions, but only at the touch of a button.

The new GT3 offers even better grip and stability also at high speeds, specific modifications of the car’s aerodynamics increasing down-forces both front and rear to such an extent that the overall pressure pushing down the car is more than twice as great as on the former model. At the same time the new Aerodynamics Package gives the GT3 a brand-new look further accentuated by the new bi-xenon headlights, LED rear light clusters, as well as modified air intakes and outlets.

The active PASM suspension of the 911 GT3 enables Porsche’s engineers to make the springs and anti-rollbars somewhat stiffer yet again, thus ensuring even more precise handling in the PASM sports mode, while retaining appropriate roll comfort suitable for everyday use in the normal PASM mode. New, even lighter wheels in racing design with central locking and UHP (ultra-high performance) tyres now even featuring tyre pressure control round off the functional and visual enhancement of the GT3.

With driving dynamics and performance increasing to an even higher level, the brake system, following an old Porsche tradition, has been enhanced accordingly on the new 911 GT3. The brake discs now come with an even larger friction disc and an aluminium cover to reduce weight even further. Further improvement of brake ventilation, in turn, guarantees an even higher level of consistent brake power also over long periods. And as an option the GT3 comes as before with an exclusive version of PCCB ceramic brakes made specifically for this model.

Starting in autumn, the new GT3 will be available with yet another option making the car even more suitable for the race track: new and highly innovative PADM (Porsche Active Drivetrain Mount) engine bearings. These special engine mounts recognise a particularly sporting, race-like style of driving, making the normally elastic engine suspension hard and particularly resistant. This retains all the motoring comfort of the GT3 in everyday traffic, while on the race track the car is not affected by any mass forces coming from the engine, as would otherwise be the case in fast bends and on winding tracks.

Yet a further advantage is the car’s improved traction when accelerating from a standstill.

Another feature also new on the new model is the optional lift system for the front axle able to raise the ground clearance of the car for driving on bumpy surfaces or steep gradients – for example into an underground garage – at the touch of a button by 30 millimetres or almost 1.2”.

The Euro base price of the new GT3 is Euro 98,100, in Germany the retail price including value-added tax and specific national features is Euro 116,947. In the USA the GT3 will be at the dealership in October at a price of USD 112,200 (MSRP without taxes).

VIDEO : 2009 Porsche 911 GT3 on Testing by Walter Röhrl










[Source : PORSCHE]
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SLOUGH : January 29, 2008 - Honda has announced that the Honda S2000 Ultimate Edition will go on sale from March 2009 in Europe. This limited edition has been produced to mark the end of production for the award winning sports car.


The Ultimate Edition retains its highly acclaimed 2.0 litre 9000 rpm VTEC engine and combines it with a Grand Prix White body and graphite coloured alloy wheels. The shade of the paint evokes the colour first used on Honda's 1964 F1 car and many sporting models since. The exterior colour combination with the dark metal alloy wheels and unique black S2000 badging gives a fresh look to the timeless shape of the roadster body.

The white exterior will be matched with a red leather interior and complimented by unique red colouring for stitching on the gear lever gaiter. Ultimate Editions will be marked out by their unique numbered plaques on the kickplates, denoting their position in the series.

The 2-seater sports car may now be almost 10-years old, but its 240PS 2-litre is still one of the highest output per litre and highest revving engines ever made. In recognition of its incredible power output, the Honda S2000's engine has won the International Engine of the Year category for 1.8 to 2.2 litre engines five times in its lifetime.

As the name suggests, the Honda S2000 Ultimate Edition will be the last version before global production of the model ceases titleogether at the end of June 2009. Since the introduction of the Honda S2000 in 1999 until the end of 2008, Honda has sold 110,673 units worldwide - 19,987 of those in Europe.

The first viewing of the Ultimate Edition will be the 2009 Geneva International Motor Show starting with the press day on the 3rd March.

On 26 Jan., Honda has reported the 2009 Honda S2000 will be the final model year produced.


[Source : HONDA]
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STUTTGART : January 28, 2009 - This Wednesday at the headquarters of Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen the new Porsche-Museum was officially declared open. On the occasion of the ceremonial act in the spectacular new building on the Porscheplatz Dr. Wendelin Wiedeking, Chairman of the Board of Porsche AG, welcomed State Parliament President Peter Straub, the Prime Minister of Baden-Württemberg Günther Oettinger, Interior Minister Heribert Rech, the Lord Mayor of Stuttgart Dr. Wolfgang Schuster, members of the Porsche and Piëch families as well as a further 200 invited guests. On Saturday 31st January the museum will for the first time be opened to the public.



In his speech Wiedeking emphasized the particular significance of the Porsche- Museum on the site of the headquarters of the Company: “This is our new business card on the Porscheplatz. At this meeting point, we welcome our international customers as well as numerous people from all over the world who themselves may not drive a Porsche but are nonetheless fascinated by our sportscars. While the bold architecture of the building reflects the individuality, self-confidence, and orientation towards the future of Porsche itself, the exhibition with the turn-key sportscars from the Museum on Wheels, which are always ready to spring into action, breathes plenty of life into the Company's history.” The head of the Board also announced: “We will not only use the museum as an exhibition, but also as a communication platform – as a permanent, integral part of the ongoing dialogue which Porsche conducts with the public.”

On its 5,600 square meters of exhibition space, the modern building provides space for approximately 80 historic vehicles and more than 200 carefully arranged small exhibits from the Company’s history. Spacious conference areas are available for events, including access to an impressive roof terrace. The exclusive restaurant “Christophorus” integrated into the exhibition, adds to the assortment of haute cuisine in Stuttgart. Furthermore, the museum bundles the entire historical spectrum of the sportscar manufacturer with its Historical Archive in one central location. And the experts in the glazed museum workshop will ensure that the exhibition vehicles not to mention the historic vehicles of customers are kept in impeccable condition.


Dr. Wolfgang Porsche, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Porsche AG, emphasized the task of the sportscar manufacturer: to remember the founding personalities of the Company and to keep the spirit of their work alive: “My grandfather and my father were passionate automobile pioneers, engineers, and entrepreneurs. Their life’s work and everything that their successors successfully made of this and further developed from it, is documented here”, said Porsche. With the opening of the new museum, the Stuttgart Company has fulfilled its obligation of preserving the dream of sports driving and to pass it on to future generations.

For Uwe Hück, Chairman of the Company Works Council of Porsche AG, the new building not only represents part of its identity, but also the motivation and commitment for all its employees: “This museum should become a part of Porsche culture – a culture of esteem amongst employees, a culture of humanity, a culture of employer and employee alike working together as well as a culture of honest and open contact with one anotherr”, said the Head of the Works Council.

Prime Minister Oettinger particularly praised the special charismatic radiance of the Porsche-Museum which would shine far beyond regional boundaries: “The history of Baden-Württemberg as the cradle of automotive engineering is closely entwined with the biography of the designer Ferdinand Porsche. All of the things which had their origin in his fountain of creativity, and which were continued by his son Ferry, are shown in this unique collection of sportscars which can be displayed to the public in its full extent for the first time. This exhibition is a reflection of the Swabian art of engineering that has given the region a worldwide reputation.”

After a walk through the new building on the Porscheplatz Lord Mayor Dr. Schuster’s verdict was: “This is a big hit for Zuffenhausen. The state capital has gained, in the form of the new Porsche-Museum, an additional, magical magnet for automobile fans from all over the world. At the same time the region can also add another attractive address for a wide variety of events. In this way Stuttgart becomes a metropolis of the automobile – and one that everyone can enjoy.”

The museum, designed entirely in white with its exhibition area resting on only three single supports that as a result, appears to be hovering, was regarded as a sensation in professional circles during its three-year construction period due to its bold architecture. Roman Delugan from the Viennese Architects' Practice Delugan Meissl Associated Architects, whose design won the competition in January 2005, was determined from the very start to put the museum's visitor at the very centre of things: “Architecture should not just be seen as another building, but should have an effect on the mind and body of human beings. This museum should make the Porsche cosmos a palpable reality for each person.”

The exhibition concept of the Stuttgart museum designer Professor HG Merz deliberately dispenses with the idea of a staged theme world with show effects and instead lets the sportscars speak for themselves. “Exhibits of this quality need no elaborate packaging”, stresses Professor Merz. “In Zuffenhausen they stand like sculptures in a white gallery. Against these reduced surroundings, the visitor can be alone with the vehicles and with his or her own personal feelings.”


Porsche is expecting at least 200,000 visitors per year. Even in the previous museum on the works site, which could barely accommodate 20 exhibits, 80,000 guests a year would turn up. Altogether the historic collection of Porsche AG encompasses a fleet of 400 racing and sportscars. Since almost all exhibition vehicles still take part in historic racing events, the rare items on show in the “Museum on Wheels” are constantly being changed. Apart from anything else, this make repeated visits all the more fascinating for regular guests.

The new Porsche-Museum is open daily as from the 31st January, except on Mondays, from 9 to 6 p.m.. Adults pay 8 euros admission (discount: four Euros). Children up to the age of 14 get free admission when accompanied by an adult.

[Source : PORSCHE]
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TORRANCE : January 28, 2009 – Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. will launch a Safety Recall with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) involving approximately 134,900 Yaris vehicles sold in the United States.


The Yaris is equipped with driver and front passenger seat belt pretensioners that retract the seat belts to begin absorbing the occupant’s forward momentum when a severe frontal impact is detected. On 2006 through 2007 model year Yaris, Toyota has determined that the seat belt pretensioner deployment may affect the sound insulating foam in the center pillar, following a collision.

There are no reported cases of this condition in the United States and no other Toyota or Lexus vehicles are involved.

Toyota will inform owners of the involved vehicles with a Safety Recall notification via first-class mail beginning in early February. Owners are requested to contact their local Toyota dealer for repair. The repair will take approximately one hour, depending on the dealer’s workload.

[Source : Toyota]

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Teodor Kyuchukov, a Bulgarian PhD student at the University of Ruse "Angel Kanchev", Bulgaria, Department of Industrial Design, who developed Audi A’KIMONO LS2.0 Concept based on the original A'kimono Concept which received the third prize at the Desire Design Contest 2007 organized by Domus Academy & Stile Bertone.


On the "Automotive Lighting Sculpture" concept, the exterior surfaces integrate an artifical lighting system which makes the car's silhouette recognizable at night. This system makes use of hidden lighting, where the source is not visible.

The exterior design combines the formal language of the latest Audi models with the lines of the Japanese national costume - the kimono, which is used in the martial arts where it allows optimal movement of the human body.










[Source : Car Body design]
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On March 3rd at the 2009 International Geneva Motor Show, Bentley will reveal its fastest, most powerful production car ever.


Delivering supercar performance, this new model is very much the extreme Bentley. It will be capable of running on biofuel, delivering on a key component of Bentley's environmental commitment and pioneering the use of this fuel in the luxury sector.

In February 2008, Bentley Motors announced ambitious plans to embrace biofuels as part of a far-reaching environmental strategy. One of the key commitments made at the 2008 Geneva “Auto Salon” was to introduce renewable fuels across the entire Bentley range by 2012. The renewable fuel solution will be based around the incorporation of “FlexFuel” powertrains – engines that can use either biofuel or gasoline – into Bentley cars, dramatically cutting CO₂ emissions on a well-to-wheel basis.

On January 11th 2009 at the Detroit Auto Show, Bentley reaffirmed its commitment to address CO₂ emissions and released ‘Bentley and the Future of Biofuels’. This document provides a balanced review of the key questions surrounding biofuels and why biofuels is a key component of the Bentley’s plan to minimise the environmental impact of our vehicles.

[Source : Bentley]
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GTA and SIC inked a contract for SUPER GT events for 2009 and 2010 seasons. At the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) in Malaysia, GTA Co., Ltd and SIC signed a 2-year contract for Sepang Circuit to host SUPER GTfs Malaysia round in 2009 and 2010 season.


GTA Representative Director Masaaki Bandoh and the new CEO of SIC, Razlan Razali, attended the conclusion of the agreement, and signed the contract in a cordial atmosphere. The two commented, "Despite the economic crisis, we should work hard on the both sides and strengthen our cooperative ties to make the event a success," and grasped firmly by the hands.

2009 Super GT SCHEDULE


[Source : SUPER GT]
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STUTTGART : January 28, 2009 - The new Porsche 911 GT3 RSR has passed its premiere on the race track with flying colours. At the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) winter tests in Sebring, the long distance racer, which received modifications in many areas, immediately proved exceptional in its reliability and handling. The Porsche teams Flying Lizard Motorsports and Farnbacher Loles Racing conducted an intensive three-day test schedule and worked on a basis set-up for the Sebring 12 hour race in March.


“Right from the start, the cars ran very well and the teams made excellent progress with their work,” said a satisfied Martijn Meijs, head of Performance Porsche Motorsport. “Due to changes in the technical regulations, the cars tackle this season with a smaller air inlet restrictor and the ride height must be five-millimetres higher. For this, the teams can use hardly any of the data from 2008 and virtually have to start from zero with their suspension set-up.”

Porsche works driver Wolf Henzler (Germany), who competes with his compatriot Dirk Werner for the Farnbacher Loles team, also heads into the ALMS season with optimism after these initial tests. “The GT3 RSR has made another noticeable step forward. I think we are well equipped to win the championship.”

Porsche works drivers Patrick Long (USA) and Joerg Bergmeister (Germany) also set-up their new racer for the ALMS season-opener in Sebring. “The new GT3 RSR has a much better turn-in than the 2008 car,” Long said enthusiastically. “Now we just have to work on finding an optimal spring-shocks set-up for the extremely bumpy circuit here in Sebring,” added Bergmeister.

In Sebring with a 2008 GT3 RSR, the Vici Racing squad concentrated on set-up tests with the Michelin tyres, which are new for the team. From the first race of the season, the outfit will also run a 450 hp Porsche 911 GT3 RSR with the new four-litre six-cylinder boxer engine.



[Source : PORSCHE]
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NORFOLK : January 27, 2009 - Group Lotus plc welcomes the government’s investment boost into green and low carbon vehicle projects in addition to increasing the funding for training of employees in the motor industry.


Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive of Group Lotus plc, said, “It has been a long time coming but I welcome the announcement given by Lord Mandelson, today. I am delighted that the UK government has recognised the vital importance to the automotive industry of research into green, environmental and low carbon vehicle solutions. This is an area that Lotus has been working for many years and I am pleased to say that Lotus is now acknowledged as a world leader in the relevant and significant areas of alternative fuels, electric and hybrid technology and of course staying true to the Lotus brand value of creating light weight and efficient vehicles.”

Commenting on Group Lotus business, Mike Kimberley said, “It will be a very tough year for the global automotive industry, but Lotus is reasonably placed compared to some other car companies. We have an ambitious research and development programme and we are very encouraged by the invitation given by Lord Mandelson to Regional Development Agencies to bring forward programmes for research and development into cleaner engines and lighter cars, an area in which Lotus is one of the world leaders.

“We have restructured and prepared our three key areas of business, the manufacture and sale of Lotus cars, world class high technology automotive engineering consultancy and contract manufacturing for third parties, to assist in riding this economic down-turn and to continue as world leaders in advanced automotive technology and low carbon cars of the future.”

[Source : LOTUS]
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COPENHAGEN,Denmark : January 27, 2009 - Better Place, in conjunction with DONG Energy, has closed approximately €103 million (US$135 million) in equity and convertible debt for the initial deployment of their electric car charging network in Denmark. (Earlier post.)


Under the terms of the agreement, DONG Energy will assist in the Better Place Denmark network rollout as well as be the preferred supplier of renewable energy to power the network. The move sets the stage for Better Place and DONG Energy to execute as planned against their commitment to enable the widespread adoption of mass-market electric vehicles by 2011.

In conjunction with the news, Better Place named Jens Moberg as Head of Better Place Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) Business Development and Chief Executive Officer of Better Place Denmark, effective 2 February. As CEO, Mr. Moberg will focus on establishing Denmark as its first operation in Europe and play a significant role in expanding Better Place to other European countries.

He joins Better Place Denmark from Microsoft Corp., where he was responsible for developing and growing Microsoft’s multi-billion dollar enterprise business in Russia, India and China.

In March 2008, Better Place named Better Place Denmark as its second operator following Israel, which recently unveiled its first installed electric charge spots. Starting in 2011 through the extensive network, The Renault-Nissan Alliance will begin to commercialize a range of EVs especially adapted to Danish customer requirements. These cars will benefit from the Better Place mobility services and products.

[Source : GreenCarCongress]
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• Prices start at £26895
  
• On-line ordering commences 2nd February
  
• Three trim levels – 370Z, GT Pack and GT Ultimate
  
• Customer deliveries expected in July

RICKMANSWORTH, GB : January 27, 2009 - As with its predecessor, the 370Z will be available in an uncomplicated grade structure to simplify the ordering process which commences online from Monday 2nd February. First customer deliveries are due in July.



The entry level 370Z, priced at £26895, comes equipped with Intelligent Key, engine stop/start button, power adjustable seats, climate controlled air-conditioning, 18” alloy wheels, automatic xenon headlamps, curtain airbag, alarm, audio with auxiliary input and Bluetooth hands free phone connection.

GT Pack priced at £30195 gets 19” forged RAYS alloy wheels, heated seats trimmed in black suede and leather, a six-CD Bose audio system with eight speakers, cruise control, speed limiter and Synchro Rev Control; a new innovation that automatically matches the revs, during up and down-shifts, with the manual gearbox, making gear changes faster and smoother.

Topping the range and priced at £31895 is the GT Ultimate which includes Persimmon suede leather along with a DVD satellite navigation system with full European mapping covering 33 countries and voice guidance in seven languages. Hands free operation is possible with voice recognition which also integrates with the MP3 compatible audio system.

As well as the introduction of the Synchro Rev Control to the six-speed manual gearbox, the 370Z is now offered with a new 7-speed automatic priced at £1400. It is equipped with Downshift Rev Matching (DRM) and is designed to offer quick, manual-like shifting when operated in manual mode, using either the gear selector or paddles behind the steering wheel. In automatic mode, the driver can relax and let the gearbox change gear, reacting to the driving style to choose the most appropriate shift-mapping.


Metallic paint is the only other option available for £450 and with this you also get Nissan’s Scratch Shield Paint*, which, thanks to its advanced resin coat, automatically repairs the light scratches and blemishes which are typically collected by light stone chips.

Customers and enthusiasts are also encouraged to visit Nissan’s dedicated new micro-site for the car, where they can register their interest in the car, see images and films and download the 370Z Widget to their desktop, which will automatically update them with news and developments.

Compared with the outgoing 350Z, the new 370Z now sports a shorter wheelbase, greater use of lightweight body materials resulting in a weight reduction of 32kg, updated engine with more horsepower, all of which combine to improve its agility and responsiveness.

As its new moniker suggests, the new 370Z is now powered by a 3.7-litre VQ37VHR engine with VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift). Power is rated at 331PS, while torque is 366Nm. Along with its larger displacement, the new engine gives better power delivery all the way to the 7,500rpm redline, improved low-end power and more high-end torque.


Inside, buyers will welcome the removal of the rear strut brace (replaced with less intrusive structural reinforcements) and the addition of a new “shelf” area behind the seats, creating an ideal storage area. A retractable cover is standard on the 370Z and a locking glove compartment has also been added.

Life on board has been improved thanks to the addition of an engine start and stop button, larger diameter dials and the use of soft touch materials on the instrument panel, stitching on the centre console, leather and suede on the seats and doors, as well as a black roof lining (depending on grade).

UK deliveries will begin in July 2009.

[Source : NISSAN]
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TOKYO : January 27, 2009 - Subaru released the 'Black Leather Limited' special edition of Forester SUV and Stella Compact "L Black Interior Selection" that become available on Japanese market.


Subaru offers 2 models of Forester "Black Leather Selection" special edition “2.0XS” and “2.0XT” that equipped with SRS side air bag and SRS the curtain air bag. Subaru set the premium leather selection to “2.0XS” and “2.0XT” of a new grade, and functional improvement of the HDD navigation system and a new body color "Paprika Red Pearl" and new design of suspension for improving both the steering stability and ride comfort.


While Stella Compact "L Black Interior Selection" based on naturally aspirated engine model, comes with all black of interior, sheets, decorative instrument panel, trim and door.

"L" Black Interior Selection equipped with dark color UV & IR a cut-glass front, rear door and rear quater side. Auto- air conditioning with pollen filter response, with a deodorant roof trim. ABS electric, Four-channel ABS and EBD are additional equipments.

Subaru Forester "Black Leather Selection" price starts at 1,995,000 yen and Stella "L Black Interior Selection" price starts at 1,071,000 yen.














[Source : SUBARU]
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RÜSSELSHEIM,Germany : January 27, 2009 - Opel has announced Ampera as the name of its revolutionary extended-range electric car. The five-door, four-seat Opel Ampera will be revealed at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show (March 5-15).

“With the Ampera, Opel will be the first European automobile manufacturer to provide customers several hundred kilometers of non-stop electric driving,” said Alain Visser, GM Europe Chief Marketing Officer.

GM’s ground-breaking electric propulsion technology, called Voltec, operates differently from other advanced propulsion systems. For short trips up to 60 km, the Ampera will run only on lithium-ion battery power charged via a standard 230v outlet. For longer distances, the car will continue to drive on electricity that is generated by a small internal combustion engine.

The Ampera will be well-suited to the daily driving schedule of most European customers. For example, approximately 80 percent of German drivers travel less than 50 km daily.

[Source : GM-OPEL]
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The Spanish Motorpasion web has shown the cleary spy shot of the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé. The spyshot taken at Mercedes Euro Training in Mallorca, Spain. to show a nice fleet of the new E-Class Coupé. Mercedes makes the fantastic for it's fan who waiting for the new sharper E-class coupé again.









[Source : Motorpasion]
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PARIS : January 26, 2009 - Renault releases 'XV de France' limited edition within the framework of its partnership with the FFR and with the French national rugby team, Renault has decided to mark the start of the 2009 RBS 6 Nations with the introduction of 'XV de France' limited edition versions of Twingo, five-door Clio and Clio Estate.


Renault: a long-term commitment to rugby
To mark the start of the 2009 RBS 6 Nations, Renault has released 'XV de France' limited edition versions of Twingo, five-door Clio and Clio Estate which will appeal to all those who share the values of the game. These three models reinforce Renault's long-term commitment to the game which follows a partnership agreement sealed on January 10, 2008, with France's rugby board (FFR) and with the French national squad for a period of five years. This association extends all the way to local level via Renault's sales network which stands out as the most powerful in France, with some 5,500 sales outlets across the country. Indeed, some local partnerships have been signed with a long list of rugby clubs, from the Top 14 premier category to Fédérale 1 and Honneur levels. Further evidence of Renault's commitment to rugby was the launch four months ago of www.lafamilleRRRugby.com, a community website for fans and supporters, with whom Renault shares the same values, including team spirit, commitment, courage and conviviality.

Three '100 per cent rugby' limited editions:
Twingo, Clio (five-door version) and Clio Estate feature the distinctive signature of the 'XV de France' in the form of exterior badging on the sides and hatch to provide an immediately visible tie with the French national rugby team. The 'rugby spirit' theme has been carried over the interior, too. The 'XV de France' signature is visible on the seats, as well as on the front and rear carpet mats, and even the key housing in the colours of the French squad allows owners to express their
support for the national side.

Extensively equipped
These comprehensively-equipped limited edition versions are based on the Dynamique equipment level of each model, and comfort features include manual climate control, a radio-CD player, electric front windows and electric exterior mirrors. On the safety front, foglamps and additional cornering lights (except Twingo) deliver enhanced night-time vision and visibility in fog. Specific styling differences such as aluminium alloy wheels, extra-tinted rear glass, a leather steeringwheel and a leather gear lever knob add an exclusive touch.

The environment: a converted try
Twingo, Clio and Clio Estate 'XV de France' comply with all three of the criteria necessary to qualify for the Renault eco² signature. TCe 100 and dCi 85 power is available for Clio and Clio Estate 'XV de France', while Twingo 'XV de France' can be ordered with the 1.2 16V 75hp, 1.2 LEV 75 or dCi 65 engines. The latter two powerplants qualify for the €700 eco-bonus scheme in operation in France.

A grand slam package for fans
During the forthcoming RBS 6 Nations tournament, the three cars come with a special French team supporters' pack. This pack includes a man's polo shirt, a lady's polo shirt, a towel, an umbrella.



[Source : RENAULT]
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TORRANCE, CA : January 26, 2009 - The 2009 Honda S2000 will be the final model year produced of the award-winning roadster, Honda announced today. First introduced in 1999 for the 2000 model year, the S2000 helped define its segment with class-leading handling, engine technology and value. Originally envisioned as a limited-edition tribute to Honda's 50th anniversary, S2000 production was extended in response to customer demand and critical acclaim.


"The S2000 is a sports car designed by enthusiasts for enthusiasts," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "It raised the bar for all future roadsters, and it's already considered a classic by many Honda fans."

As a true sports car that can serve as a practical and fun daily driver yet feel equally at home on a racetrack, this concept further evolved with a club racer-inspired S2000 CR trim, first offered in the 2008 model year. The S2000 has been honored with multiple awards through the years, including four appearances on Car and Driver Magazine's coveted "10-Best" list.

The S2000 is sold in 64 countries around the world with cumulative world-wide sales of over 110,000 since its introduction in 1999. Over 65,000 S2000s have been sold in the United States since 1999.

[Source : HONDA]
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STUTTGART : January 26, 2009 - The engineers of Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, have developed a new sports exhaust system for the latest generation of the 911, available as an option on new models as of February 2009.


This special exhaust gives the customer the opportunity to adjust the 911 to his individual, personal preferences also in the car’s particular sound: At the touch of a button the exhaust system switches over to a sporting and emotional sound generated in particular whenever the driver prefers a truly dynamic style of motoring.

The new sports exhaust system is made of modified stainless-steel main silencers and stands out clearly through its two dual tailpipes in unique design. The heart of the system is the exhaust flap on each main silencer activated by the engine’s electronic control system and switching over to a more sporting sound as soon as the driver activates the sound mode. The system itself is activated by a separate button in the centre console varying the sound of the exhaust as a function of engine load, road speed and engine speed.

The Euro base price of the sports exhaust system is 1,610 Euro excluding taxes. In the US the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) is 2,500 US$. Starting in April 2009, Porsche will also be offering a Tequipment version for retrofitting.

[Source ; PORSCHE]
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TOKYO : January 26, 2009 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation is to give the i MiEV SPORT AIR concept model its global debut at the 79th Geneva International Motor Show which runs from March 3 through March 15 at the Geneva Palexpo exhibition and conference complex (opening to the general public on March 5).


The i MiEV SPORT AIR explores the future possibilities for zero-emission vehicles, placing a greater bias on exhilarating driving pleasure. The concept model exemplifies the balance between environmental and dynamic performance implied in the tagline Drive@earth, and highlights the benefits of the Mitsubishi electric vehicle drivetrain :

• Powerful, instant torque from a beefed-up electric motor
  
• Stable driving and handling and a low center of gravity, due to the in-floor lithium-ion battery
  
• Zero on-road CO₂ emissions

Together, these features along with the car's "clear cutaway" top allow the driver to enjoy the exhilaration of fresh-air motoring while also highlighting its eco-friendly qualities.






[Source : MITSUBISHI]
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Switzer Performance Innovation (SPI) has announced its latest tuning package for the Porsche 997 known as the L4 700/750 Tiptronic package which is a decreased step version of the Switzer SLEDGEHAMMER bolt-on it introduced earlier this month.


The SPI L4 700/750 Tiptronic Porsche 997 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds, a quarter-mile in over 130 mph.

The SPI L4 700/750 Porsche 997 comes with a unique DME software, a pair of VTG V3 turbochargers, SPI’s intercoolers and a competition-style “full-exhaust” system.

According to Tym Switzer, the L4 700/750 is a very reliable package that’s as easy to drive fast as it is to drive slow and they designed the L4 package to be flexible enough for everyday driving without compromises, and their 700/750 customers are always telling him how easy the car is to drive.

The Switzer L4 700/750 package is priced at $18,450 and is available through SPI.










[Source : SPI]
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French forum, Forum-peugeot.com have spy photos of an unknown prototype of the new model Peugeot, probably sedan Peugeot 408. As the users of the portal, the conveyor machine should stand in the 2010-2011 year, but its debut will be held this year at Geneva Motorshow.



Because of the poor quality pictures to address the details of the exterior of the car is quite difficult, however, shows that the design has changed the front of the sedan: there were other head-lamp light, the lower part of which is "cut", change the form of fog lamps and grille. The site Caradisiac also said that the length of Peugeot 408, compared with the predecessor to rise by 12 centimeters.

In addition, it can be assumed that the photographs represented only a conceptual version of Peugeot 408. This is evident too early period debut vehicle, "the exhibition" chrome wheels and a bit strange proportions of body.


[Source : Forum-Peugeot]
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TOKYO : January 23, 2009 - The Nikkei reports that Japan’s eight automakers are expected to produce 1.7 million or so vehicles from their domestic factories in the January-March quarter, down more than 40% from a year earlier.

This total reduction of 1.3 million units is seen as the largest on record and may rise further depending on sales trends. Usually, automakers boost domestic output this time of year for the sales battle ahead of the March 31 end of the fiscal year.

Among the projected reductions:

• Toyota, down 40% in January and down more than 50% in February and March.
  
• Nissan, down 30%+ in January, and possibly 40-50% in February March
  
• Honda, down 30-40% for January-March

The big production cuts by the automakers are sure to affect related sectors, such as manufacturers of autoparts, materials and machine tools, and will likely lead to further job losses.

[Source : NIKKEI via GreenCarCongress]
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NEW ORLEANS, LA : January 24, 2009 - Electric transportation pioneer ZAP will give auto dealers a first-hand look at its pre-production running Alias roadster during the National Automobile Dealers Association annual exposition January 24-27, 2009 in New Orleans.


The ZAP Alias from electric car pioneer ZAP will debut to auto dealers January 24-27 in New Orleans at NADA, the National Automobile Dealers Association annual conference and exposition.

The ZAP Alias is a stylish, 100% electric, 2-seater capable of freeway speeds. ZAP indicated the mass-production version of the Alias is targeted to be priced under $35,000. In 2009, ZAP plans to produce a limited number of hand-crafted, Signature Series Alias roadsters.

"This is a logical progression for the market over the next five years as demand gears up for electric cars," says ZAP CEO Steve Schneider. "Consumer interest indicates there is already a market for thousands of units. Independent research and our own experience tell us the future of the auto industry requires a radical change in thinking and the Alias is uniquely positioned to capture demand for an affordable vehicle of this type."

Schneider says the goals for the ZAP Alias were breathtaking design, freeway speeds, 100-mile range, and an affordable price point. The design is a result of collaboration between ZAP and premier automotive engineering consulting in the United States and Europe. While ZAP has contracted most of its manufacturing to China over the past several years as a way to remain cost-competitive, the company will be building the Alias in the United States. ZAP is currently in negotiation to finalize its production requirements.

ZAP's Chairman Eqbal Al Yousuf stated that he is very passionate about the future of electric vehicles and is assigning Al Yousuf Group's COO, Mr. Ashraf Saeed, to oversee project management for the Alias.

Other design goals of the ZAP Alias include rapid 0-60 MPH acceleration, lithium-ion batteries, regenerative braking, composite shell, solar glass, integrated GPS, and "Lambo-style" doors. The Alias is powered by an AC induction motor running at 216 volts.

ZAP currently offers a line of small, 40 MPH electric cars and trucks under $15,000 as well as other electric vehicles. The company operates one of the only EV distribution and service dealer networks in existence with more than 50 dealers throughout the USA. ZAP has taken many vehicles from concept to production since its inception in 1994 and has shipped more than 100,000 electric vehicles to customers in more than 75 countries. It has manufacturing partners in China, Europe, South America and the United States.

Electric transportation has been winning fans. Deutsche Bank analyst Rod Lache states, "There's an inherent braking mechanism on our economy that's tied to oil and will limit our economic growth. This is one of the reasons we're bullish on electrification of the industry."

Electric vehicles are less expensive to fuel and maintain. Even counting the emissions from electric power plants, studies show electric vehicles can reduce automotive emissions by 90 percent compared to gasoline. Electric vehicles are fun to drive, with quiet, smooth acceleration.

Performance

• 0 – 60 mph : 7.8 seconds
• 
  
• Vmax: 105 mph
• 
  
• EV range: 100+ miles (160.9 kilometer)
• 
  
• Vehicle curb mass: 1496 lbs (733 kg)

Safety

• ZAP-3 Homologated as a motorcycle with enhanced safety features
• 
  
• Seatbelts
• 
  
• Roll hoop
• 
  
• CAE will guide the development of structural safety solutions

Images : ZAP Alias Prepares for NADA - Lo-Res.




[Source : ZAPWORLD]
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SLOUGH : January 23, 2009 - Alfa Romeo’s sporty new compact, the Alfa MiTo, will bring a new dimension to the Alfa Romeo range when it goes on sale in the UK from 24 January.


Inspired by the Alfa 8C Competizione, the Alfa MiTo is the first sporty compact from the famous Italian marque since the 1970s.

Designed to appeal to a young, image-conscious audience, Alfa Romeo’s collaboration between the Milano (MI) styling centre, (Alfa Romeo Centro Stile), and the Torino (TO) factory, (Mirafiori), is well priced, well built and well specified.

From launch, three high specification models – Turismo, Lusso and Veloce – will comprise the range, with a choice of five engines – three punchy petrol units and two diesels.

Prices start at £10,745 for the entry level 1.4 16V Alfa MiTo Turismo, and rise to £14,745 for the top of the range 1.4 TB 155bhp Veloce.

Introducing new levels of style and driving satisfaction to the sector, the Alfa MiTo delivers head-turning good looks. Styling cues taken from the Alfa 8C Competizione supercar make the Alfa MiTo appear like the perfect offspring.

At the front, the shield-shaped grille is imposingly sited at the end of a sculpted V-shaped bonnet, flanked by clear lens and teardrop headlamps.

In profile, the high waistline, flared wheel arches, disguised B-pillar and minimal rear overhang combine to communicate power, performance and agility.

The hatchback rear of the vehicle features a segment first: LED (light-emitting diode) lights. Brighter, faster responding and thus safer, these lights can be ordered with a choice of coloured surrounds.

Inside the cabin, the high quality interior feels like a car from a class above, with its unique carbon fibre-look dashboard. The sporty dials are hooded and the central console comes with a satin finish.

Careful soundproofing helps create a quiet and refined environment that optimises the inclusion of a Bose^® sound system and integrated Blue & Me™ with satellite navigation on certain models.

Regardless of engine size, the Alfa MiTo delivers an engaging and rewarding driver experience. Alfa Romeo’s innovative DNA system is another first for the class.

A three-position switch, situated beside the gearlever, alters the throttle response and steering set-up for different driving environments – Dynamic, Normal and All Weather.

In Dynamic mode, the throttle response is quicker, the steering is sharper and the handling is more direct. For icy and loose surface environments the All Weather mode provides a more gentle response.

Alfa Romeo’s Electronic Q2 limited slip differential heads a list of dynamic driver aids, including a long list of safety systems.

Together, these all help deliver impressive driving dynamics and handling, along with sure-footed road holding capabilities.

Four of the five available engines are mated to a six speed gearbox. The entry level 95bhp 1.4 16V Turismo will sprint from 0-62mph in a respectable 11.2 seconds and deliver a top speed of 112mph.

The turbocharged 155bhp 1.4 Lusso model delivers the type of power normally associated with a significantly larger engine as it accelerates from 0-62mph in 8 seconds, and continues to a top speed of 134mph.

In line with entertaining levels of performance and handling, the Alfa MiTo also boasts high levels of safety.

Designed and developed to achieve the highest possible scores in passive and active safety tests, the Alfa MiTo is one of the safest cars on the road, providing driver and passengers with a high level of protection.

In recognition of its safety credentials, the Alfa MiTo has already collected a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating.

Driver and occupant safety is paramount, and the specification of seven airbags including front airbags, window bags, sidebags and driver’s kneebag work with Alfa Romeo’s Self Aligning Head Restraint – a system that moves the head restraints closer to the neck of the front seat occupants to lessen the effect of whiplash in the event of an impact – is evidence of Alfa Romeo’s commitment to the highest possible safety standards.

During emergency braking, the Alfa MiTo automatically operates its hazard lights to alert other road users.

The Alfa MiTo is being launched into a segment dominated by the Mini. The Italian sporting car company is planning to challenge leading rivals with the MiTo’s persuasive combination of stylish looks, high specification and value for money proposition, driving credentials, and genuine four person comfort and luggage space.

Managing Director of Alfa Romeo UK, Christopher Nicoll, says: “The moment is right to introduce a new sporty compact to the sector. Cool, young drivers will relish the choice and excitement that this new model – a real driver’s car – brings. Keen pricing, Alfa’s evocative heritage and the MiTo’s good looks mark it out as a genuine contender within this competitive sector.”


STYLED TO BE SPORTY

With design cues taken from the stunning Alfa 8C Competizione, and only available as a 3-door hatchback, the new Alfa MiTo is styled to match its description as the sportiest compact car on the market today.

From all angles, the Alfa MiTo manages to blend its sports credentials with typical Alfa Romeo style and sophistication to create a compact car that expresses the vitality and emotion of the brand.

Front on, the new addition to the range is every inch an Alfa Romeo. The instantly recognisable shield-shaped grille denotes the lineage of the Alfa MiTo and the shape of the bonnet and the headlamps pay homage to the Alfa 8C Competizione.


STYLISH AND COMFORTABLE

Inside the Alfa MiTo, it’s clear to see that the sporty theme has been maintained.

Throughout the interior, a combination of precision materials, smart upholstery and top levels of build quality, plus neat finishing touches, make the cockpit a cosseting and welcoming environment.

The simply laid-out satin-chrome central console – home to the RDS stereo radio and MP3-compatible CD player – combined with the four air vents, tactile dashboard and the hooded driver instruments housing MPH, RPM, fuel and water temperature gauges – create a high quality interior that is complemented by a choice of dashboard colours and matching seat upholstery.

Dependent on trim level, the driver can choose a dashboard colour – Sprint Black, Sprint Red, Competizione Blue, Competizione Red or Black.

The trim colour is extended to the driver and passenger door panels and complementary seat fabrics.

Controls for the heating and ventilation system are positioned in front of the gearlever on the central console. Across the range, all Alfa MiTo versions come with manual air conditioning as standard, plus the option of automatic dual-zone air conditioning.

Behind the wheel, the driver benefits from a rake and reach-adjustable steering wheel. Lusso and Veloce versions feature a leather steering wheel, gearlever and handbrake grip.

The three-position DNA switch is located beside the gear lever. The driver is reminded which function has been selected with a digital letter designation on the dashboard alongside a read-out for time, outside temperature and turbo pressure. Turismo and Lusso models get red-on-black dials while the Veloce trim features white on black dials.

On certain models, chrome kick plates, floor mats and a front armrest represent an executive touch, and the option of chrome sports pedals hints further at the sporty lineage of the Alfa MiTo.

Tilting and sliding front seats make rear passenger access easy and comfortable and, unlike some competitors, there’s plenty of head, leg and elbow room in the back seats for two full-size adults.

Radio and Hi-Fi system

A young audience attracted to the Alfa MiTo’s stylish and modern look will take in- car entertainment seriously. For that reason, the new Alfa MiTo includes a sophisticated RDS radio with CD and MP3 file player, and two sound system levels.

The first sound system comes complete with six speakers (two mid-woofers with a power rating of 40W, two 40W full range speakers and two 30W tweeters), while the

higher level comes with eight speakers (four subwoofers with a power rating of 40 W and four 30W speakers).

Significantly, for the first time in its segment, the Alfa MiTo becomes available with a double antennae tuner fitted with a twin aerial for up to 80% better reception.

Built into the design of the dashboard and laid out in user-friendly fashion, the controls for the radio, CD and MP3 player are easily accessible to the driver and front seat passenger.

On Lusso and Veloce models, the sound system can be managed using steering wheel controls.

The radio comes with RDS (Radio Data System), TA (traffic news), and PTY (a code used by radio stations to indicate the type of music played so that the set can automatically select the type of music preferred by the listener).

Every time the radio is switched on, the volume settings remain the same as when it was switched off, while another device automatically corrects sound imbalance on the basis of road speed. The customer can also choose between seven equalisation bands for personal setting of sound parameters.

In addition, the Alfa MiTo radio may be connected both to the Blue&Me™ system – standard on Veloce versions and an option on the rest of the range – plus an optional Bose^® Sound System.


ALL MOD CONS – THE ALFA MiTo RANGE

The entire Alfa MiTo range is extremely well specified and, in some areas, class leading. The inclusion of Alfa Romeo’s DNA system, LED rear lights and the highest Euro NCAP safety rating reinforce MiTo’s keen pricing and exceptional value.

TURISMO

The standard specification list is long and comprehensive, featuring Alfa’s advanced DNA function along with the Q2 system and electric power assisted steering. In addition, this model is fitted with Vehicle Dynamic Control – an amalgamation of ABS, Anti Slip Regulation and Brake Assistant – plus Hill Holder as standard.

Other safety features include driver, passenger, front side, window and driver’s knee airbags, along with fast-reaction LED rear lights and a fire prevention system. The front passenger airbag can also be deactivated.

The LED rear lights complement the height adjustable follow-me-home headlights with titanium grey surrounds, electrically adjustable and heated colour-coded door mirrors and bumpers.

All Alfa MiTo Turismo versions come with 16” wheels with unique design trims and 195/55 tyres.

Inside the cabin, driver and passengers benefit from manual air conditioning, electric one-touch window operation plus an RDS radio with CD and MP3 reader. There’s also an ‘auto-close’ system to complement the Alfa code immobiliser and alarm system.

Drivers can choose two different cabin colours. A Sprint Black dashboard is complemented by black / grey cloth and a Sprint Red dashboard comes with a black / red cloth combination.

LUSSO

From the outside, Lusso versions can be distinguished from Turismo by their fog lights, chrome headlamp surrounds, chrome-effect window surrounds and chrome exhaust pipes. The Alfa MiTo Lusso also differentiates itself from the rest of the range by sporting 16” alloy wheels.

Stepping over the chrome kick plates, the interior of Lusso models can feature a choice of three different interior colour combinations.

Competizione Blue, Red or Black dashboards can be complemented by the inclusion of five different cloth seat colour combinations. All Lusso models come with lumbar adjustment on the driver’s side.

A leather steering wheel with remote audio controls, a leather gear knob and floor mats complete the look.

VELOCE

Top of the range Alfa MiTo Veloce versions are fitted with 17” alloy wheels – similar to those that appear on the stunning Alfa 8C Competizione – along with satin effect headlamp surrounds and door mirrors.

This version features a rear spoiler and sports rear bumper with extractor. Veloce versions also sport red painted brake callipers.

Inside the cockpit, the Veloce features the same dashboard options as the Lusso version, but with an upgraded Veloce sports cloth, front armrest with storage compartment and sports dials with white illumination.

All Veloce models come with the Blue&Me hands-free system with voice recognition, and media player with USB port.

OPTIONS

A list of options, including roof and side graphics, is also available; (see technical and specification table).


DRIVING SATISFACTION

With a long history of developing entertaining, driver-focussed small cars, Alfa Romeo has created a sporty compact that existing Alfisti and future fans are sure to enjoy.

On the road, Alfa MiTo delivers a fun, entertaining, comfortable and safe driving experience.

Its ability to deliver such high levels of driveability and refinement is derived from the choice of five well-suited engines, the introduction of Alfa Romeo’s innovative DNA (Dynamic, Normal, All Weather) system, the five and six speed gearboxes and newly developed running gear, and an innovative suspension set-up.


DNA

Until now, no other compact car has benefitted from advanced DNA driving technology derived from racing and supercars.

Situated beside the gearlever, a three-position switch alters the behaviour of vehicle dynamics with the system working on engine, steering, suspension, and gearbox. This creates three different vehicle behaviour modes based on the driving style best suited to the situation, terrain or the wishes of the driver.

With a choice of Dynamic, Normal and All Weather set-ups at the flick of a switch, the driver can effortlessly shift between the driving modes.

Ideal for urban driving, the Normal setting ensures the engine is tuned for agility in the city. However, shifting the DNA lever to the Dynamic setting delivers a sportier driver experience. Power steering assistance is reduced to bring a sportier feel to the steering, suspension becomes stiffer for improved handling and there is less intrusion from the Vehicle Dynamic Control and the Anti Slip Regulation systems.

When Dynamic mode is selected on 120bhp JDTM and 155bhp Alfa MiTo versions, drivers can utilise an over-boost facility for increased driving entertainment.

Poor, low-grip weather conditions – loose surfaces, wet or snowy situations – could prompt the driver to switch to the All Weather mode.

When the All Weather function is selected, the traction control system increases its sensitivity, thus minimising the prospect of a loss of control in adverse conditions.


RIDE AND HANDLING – SUSPENSION

Key to the sporting ride and handling characteristics of the Alfa MiTo is the suspension layout.

Two tried and tested set-ups have been employed – a MacPherson layout at the front and a semi-independent layout with torsion beam at the rear.

In particular, some key elements have been incorporated to give an exclusive feel to the Alfa MiTo chassis.

To emphasise the promptness of response, stability and control, even under extreme conditions, MiTo’s track widths are among the widest in the segment – 1483mm front and 1475mm rear.

The wheel rims are also wide in relation to the size of the tyres in order to optimise the latter’s handling performance. The stiff, front and rear springs give the vehicle a sporting yet pliant ride, and the torsion beam features high torsional stiffness to enable it to also act as an anti-roll bar, thereby ensuring optimum roll performance and helping maximise the promptness of response.

However, the most distinctive feature of the Alfa Romeo MiTo suspension is that the front and rear dampers feature coilover springs fitted inside the shock absorber that act in parallel with the main spring during extension travel, with the main purpose of reducing roll and increasing chassis response. Special dual-acting telescopic hydraulic dampers are fitted as standard on all versions.


ENGINES

Three petrol engines – 1.4 16V (95bhp), 1.4 TB (120bhp) and 1.4TB (155bhp) – plus two diesel engines – 1.3 JTDM (90bhp) and 1.6 JTDM (120bhp) – will become available from launch.

Four units are mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox to deliver a punchy, responsive, driving experience, and the remaining engine (1.4 120bhp) is coupled with an equally impressive 5-speed ’box.

Distinguished by its performance, eager throttle response, low fuel consumption, durability and reliability, the new 1.4 turbocharged petrol engine powers two of the five models in the petrol line-up, with two different power outputs.

1.4 16V 95bhp

The entry level – normally aspirated – petrol unit can be specified with each of the three trim levels to deliver a spirited and willing performance.

Developing 95bhp at 6000rpm and a maximum 129Nm of torque at 4500rpm, the 1.4 16V engine is capable of accelerating the Alfa MiTo from 0-62mph in 11.2 seconds, and on to a top speed of 112mph.

An ideal partner for relaxed, around town driving, this petrol engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox to make longer, motorway journeys more economical and relaxed.

Official mpg figures reveal that in urban driving, the Alfa MiTo 1.4 16V covers 36.7mpg, while long journeys will push that fuel consumption figure to 58.9mpg. The combined figure is a creditable 47.9mpg.

CO₂ emissions are 138g/km and put the Alfa MiTo 1.4 16V in tax band C.

1.4 TB 120bhp Turbopetrol

New to the Alfa Romeo range, and available with all three trim levels, is a 1.4 turbocharged unit that delivers enhanced levels of driving flexibility and lively performance.

Responsive and satisfying to drive, the new 1.4 TB engine is enhanced by the low inertia of the turbocharger that makes it possible to obtain maximum performance from a throttle command, without the annoying lag typical of this type of engine.

Throttle control for this unit (and the 155bhp version) is drive-by-wire, without any mechanical connection, so that the driver can obtain the desired response from the engine with the greatest energy efficiency.

The 0-62mph sprint takes 8.8 seconds, and in fifth gear, a top speed of 123mph can be attained – impressive figures that have previously been associated with larger engines.

This 1.4 TB unit develops its maximum power of 120bhp at 5000rpm but, more impressively, produces a generous 206Nm of torque at just 1750rpm.

In turn, these characteristics help the Alfa MiTo to achieve 34.9mpg around town and 56.5mpg in the extra urban cycle, plus a combined figure of 46.3mpg.

CO₂ emissions of 145g/km put the Alfa MiTo 1.4 TB 120bhp in tax band C.

1.4 TB 155bhp Turbopetrol

Only available on Lusso and Veloce versions, the new 1.4TB 155bhp unit is the top performing petrol engine in the Alfa MiTo range, delivering its maximum power at 5500rpm along with a maximum torque of 230 Nm at 3000rpm.

Quickest of the Alfa MiTo launch range, this version can accelerate from 0-62mph in just 8.0 seconds and reach a top speed of 134mph.

Despite the increase in power and performance, fuel economy remains notably competitive.

Around town, drivers can achieve 33.2mpg, while motorway journeys and the combined cycle are 53.3 and 43.5mpg respectively.

A CO₂ rating of 153g/km puts the Alfa MiTo 1.4TB 155bhp in tax band D.

1.3 JTDM 90bhp

The latest generation JTDM engines are trailblazing diesel technology and Alfa Romeo is now bringing that expertise to the sporty compact car sector.

Available across the Alfa MiTo line-up, this engine choice extends all the benefits of lower fuel consumption and very low emissions along with remarkable low-down

torque – 200Nm at 2000rpm – for a relaxed driving style with minimal gear changes and a maximum 90bhp at 4000rpm. Official fuel consumption figures show that even in the Urban Cycle, the new Alfa MiTo 1.3 JTDM achieves 47.1mpg, while its Combined Cycle figure is a remarkable 62.8mpg.

1.6 JTDM 120bhp

Representing class-leading diesel technology, this Euro 5-ready 1.6 JTDM 120bhp engine delivers a massive 320Nm of torque at just 1750rpm.

As a result, the engine is perfectly matched for drivers wanting an effective combination of low running costs with useable power and flexibility for authentic driving satisfaction.

Alfa Romeo’s new injection system with new-generation variable geometry turbo engines along with the most advanced exhaust gas treatment technologies – Close Coupled Diesel Particulate Filter and an integral EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system – improves control of temperature and gas flow, simultaneously guaranteeing lower emissions and low fuel consumption.

No other similar size engine currently offers such a high torque delivery at such low rpm. All things considered, the new 1.6 JTDM offers exhilarating driving satisfaction that is difficult to match. This achievement is also borne out by an acceleration time of 0-62mph in just 9.9 seconds and a top speed of 123mph, while Combined Cycle fuel consumption is a remarkable 58.9mpg.


SAFETY AT ITS CORE

The Alfa MiTo has been designed to obtain a maximum score in passive and active safety tests – bringing drivers peace of mind in the knowledge that this is one of the safest cars available today.

Active safety benefits from state-of-the-art technology

To ensure active safety, the new Alfa MiTo offers some of the most sophisticated electronic systems to control the vehicle’s dynamic performance (from braking to traction) and push its dynamic limits still further. These systems are not intrusive for the driver but greatly benefit safety.

Braking system

The power-assisted, hydraulic braking system on the Alfa MiTo comprises two cross-over independent circuits, and is particularly effective, guaranteeing prompt, smooth braking combined with minimal stopping distances.

At the front, the Alfa MiTo 1.4 TB 155bhp is fitted with 305mm ventilated discs with one-piece aluminium four piston callipers. The rear discs are solid (251mm diameter) with floating callipers. A one-piece aluminium calliper on the front brakes increases calliper stiffness without increasing weight, and therefore contributes to increased performance.

Alfa MiTo versions with turbodiesel engines are fitted with 281mm ventilated discs on the front wheels and use a cast iron floating calliper with 57mm piston; the rear brake discs are solid (251mm diameter) while the floating calliper is aluminium with a 38mm diameter piston.

ABS with EBD

In addition to a high-performing braking system, the Alfa MiTo also comes with one of the most advanced ABS anti-lock braking systems available. It features four active sensors and a hydraulic control unit with 12 solenoids.

The ABS contains an electronic brakeforce distributor (EBD). This device apportions braking action over all four wheels to prevent locking and ensure full control of the car under all conditions. The system also adapts its operation to wheel grip conditions and brake pad efficiency to reduce pad overheating.

VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control)

VDC is Alfa Romeo’s version of ESP (Electronic Stability Program), a system that activates under extreme conditions when vehicle stability is at risk, helping the driver to control the car.

Permanently engaged, VDC allows the driver the full satisfaction of controlling the car as long as conditions are normal, but cuts in just before a situation becomes critical.

MSR (Motor Schleppmoment Regelung) cuts in when a gear is shifted down abruptly under conditions of low grip. This device restores torque to the engine to prevent loss of control as a result of lock.

To achieve this result, VDC continually monitors tyre grip in both longitudinal and lateral directions. If the car slides, it cuts in to restore directionality and ride stability. It uses sensors to detect rotation of the car body about its vertical axis (yaw speed), its lateral acceleration, and the steering wheel angle set by the driver (which indicates the chosen direction). It then goes on to compare these data with parameters generated by a computer and establishes whether the car is cornering within its grip limits or if the front or rear is about to slide (understeer or oversteer).

To restore the correct trajectory, it then generates a yaw movement in the opposite direction to the movement that gave rise to the instability by braking the appropriate wheel individually, and reducing engine power (via the throttle). This is the key attribute of the system designed by Alfa Romeo engineers. It acts in a modulated fashion on the brakes to ensure the action is as smooth as possible (and the drive is not therefore disturbed). In addition, engine power reduction is contained to ensure outstanding performance and great driving satisfaction at all times.

ASR (Anti Slip Regulation)

The ASR (Anti Slip Regulation) system, an integral part of the VDC, optimises traction at any speed with the aid of the brakes and throttle.

The system computes the degree of slip on the basis of wheel rpm calculated by the ABS sensors, and activates two different control systems to restore grip. When an excessive power demand causes both driven wheels to slip (e.g. in the case of aquaplaning or when accelerating over an unsurfaced, snowy or icy road), it reduces engine torque by reducing the throttle opening angle and thus air flow. If only one wheel slips (e.g. the inside wheel following acceleration or dynamic load changes), this is automatically braked without the driver touching the brake pedal. The resulting effect is similar to that of a self-locking differential. This allows the Alfa MiTo to get out of difficulty easily on road surfaces with low grip.

CBC (Cornering Brake Control)

The CBC (Cornering Brake Control) system comes into play when the car takes a corner while under heavy braking. In this case, brake pressure is discharged on each wheel individually to maintain vehicle stability, minimising any understeer or oversteer behaviour.

DST (Dynamic Steering Torque)

The VDC on the Alfa MiTo always activates unobtrusively because it is combined with DST (Dynamic Steering Torque), an active electronic steering system that makes corrections automatically and also controls oversteer on surfaces with low grip.

DST improves both driving safety and handling performance. Under all driving conditions, the electronic steering system suggests the correct manoeuvres to be carried out to the driver to allow outstanding road holding performances, while instilling a great sense of security. This is achieved through continuous interaction between the electric power steering (which generates torque at the steering wheel) and electronic control of dynamics (VDC). In detail, DST automatically makes corrections, helps to maintain vehicle control and ensures that the VDC activates unobtrusively.

The DST System is particularly useful in the case of oversteer because it facilitates the most appropriate manoeuvre to maintain control of the vehicle in every situation.

The MCF function (Mu-Split Control Function) activates when the vehicle is being driven over surfaces with different levels of grip. (In winter, it is sometimes the case that two wheels are on ice while the other two are on asphalt.)

In this particular case, the DST System allows automatic counter-steering that makes it possible to control the vehicle (preventing it from spinning) and also to pull up within the shortest possible distance, (braking distances are reduced by up to 10%). In the event of a sporty drive, if the system detects higher lateral acceleration (from 0.6 g) it cuts in to deliver an increase in resistant torque to the steering wheel. In this way it significantly improves the sensation of mastering the car on corners, particularly at high speed.

HBA and Hill-holder

The equipment array on the Alfa MiTo is completed by the HBA system, (hydraulic braking assistance) which automatically increases pressure in the braking circuit during emergency braking; and by the Hill-holder system, which maintains brake pressure for a few moments after the driver removes his foot from the pedal, to simplify hill starts and prevent the car from slipping backwards.

Electronic Q2

Another specific feature of the Alfa MiTo is its Electronic Q2 System that improves the transfer of drive torque to the wheels and, in particular, guarantees excellent cornering behaviour, thus making the car safer and more entertaining during a sporty drive or when grip is poor. In detail, the Electronic Q2 System is based on the principle of making full use of the braking system that, when appropriately controlled by the VDC control unit, develops a form of behaviour very similar to that of a limited slip differential (in other words, the Electronic Q2 System electronically simulates the presence of a self-locking differential).

In practical terms, when accelerating in a bend, the front braking system acts on the inner wheel to increase traction on the outer wheel (bearing the highest load), and therefore distributes torque between the front driven wheels in a continuous, dynamic manner according to driving and road surface conditions.

Systems for comprehensive protection

Alfa Romeo’s deep-rooted commitment to making the Alfa MiTo one of the safest cars in its segment has involved the company in conducting around 100 simulations on a HyGe slide, 500 crash tests, and some 200 tests on components and subsystems.

The new Alfa MiTo thus represents the cutting edge as far as passive safety is concerned.

Comprehensive occupant protection is achieved by the standard specification of seven airbags (two of which are Multistage); three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters; and an S.A.H.R. (Self Aligning Head Restraint) system – an anti-whiplash device built into the front seat backrests.

In addition, the body, bonnet, doors and dashboard crossmember, along with the seats and steering column, have been designed with a view to absorbing impact energy progressively and limiting their intrusion on the driver and passengers.

Air-Bag Smart 2 system

In the event of a head-on impact, occupant protection is safeguarded by an innovative constraint system known as the Air-Bag Smart 2, that automatically adapts the activation parameters according to the severity of the impact.

On the Alfa MiTo, the driver and passenger front airbags operate with dual stage activation. When the impact is of moderate force, the system opens only to the first of two stages, while during more serious collisions, the control unit sanctions the activation of both stages.

The airbags may, however, be activated in accordance with different sequences determined by the various impact types. In each case, braids inside the bags ensure that maximum bag dimension and final shape are as non-invasive as possible for passengers.

The front passenger airbag may be deactivated manually (by means of the control panel menu) so that a child can be carried in a seat with its back to the direction of travel (the pre-tensioner remains active).

The sensors on the Air-Bag Smart 2 system also control seat belt pre-tensioner activation.

Control unit and sensors

The Alfa MiTo is equipped with all the most advanced passive safety systems currently available. They are governed by a sophisticated new ‘nerve centre’ that is controlled by an electronic control unit located in the transmission tunnel. This control unit receives signals from various sensors distributed throughout the car, (and others inside), and decides how many systems should be activated, and which ones.

This is why the system is said to be ‘smart’.

Utilising a CSA (Crash Severity Algorithm), the system is able to recognise the severity of impact and control the Multistage front airbags. At the same time, two-way accelerometers make it possible to enhance the function of satellite sensors, installed in the central ‘B’ pillars, to ensure timely operation of the side airbags and window bags in the event of side impact.

Lastly, the Alfa MiTo is also fitted with a decentralised sensor for detecting frontal impact or ECS (Early Crash Sensor); this extra device is located on the front structure of the car and allows the control unit to activate the front airbags earlier. Unlike conventional systems, this device allows the bag to inflate fully before belted occupants even start to move in the direction of the steering wheel or dashboard.

Window bags and side airbags

These airbags drop down along the windows to safeguard the passengers’ heads in the case of side impact. Compared with other solutions, the windowbags adopted on the Alfa MiTo are more protective (because they always take up the correct position); they are also faster to inflate and less invasive for passengers. They open from top to bottom and do not involve a risk of secondary damage to occupants’ arms.

They also effectively safeguard the heads of front as well as rear passengers because they extend along the entire length of the window area and ensure protection even during rollover. Two bags are located under the roof rails where they are folded into a closed compartment. At the appropriate moment, the roof lining bends open to allow the bags to expand and drop downward.

The Alfa MiTo comes with two side airbags located inside the seat backrest to protect the pelvic and chest areas of its passengers, even when the car is struck from the

side. This positioning affords better protection for passengers regardless of height, sitting position and seat adjustment.

Driver’s knee bag

The area beneath the steering column, typically the most dangerous for a driver’s knees, has been made safer by the use of a knee bag and also a new steering lock location that involved moving the ignition key from its conventional position.

Protective, wrap-around seats

Particular attention was also paid to the seats. These play an all-important role in ensuring effective containment of the occupants and therefore achieving the required level of safety during head-on, rear or side impact. The seat performance required exceeds that imposed by European type-approval standards. The seats have been developed to exceed the toughest standards required by the market. Among other things, the front seats of the Alfa MiTo are equipped with an S.A.H.R. (Self Aligning Head Restraint) system that moves the head restraint closer to occupants’ necks to lessen the effect of whiplash in the event of impact.

Emergency stop indication

The Alfa MiTo also employs a system that indicates an emergency stop by operating its hazard warning indicators. The function becomes operational when – at a speed greater than 30mph – a deceleration greater than 7m/s² occurs, the brake pedal is being pressed and the hazard warning lights are not active. Once these parameters are satisfied, the system automatically activates both front and rear direction indicators.


OPTIONAL TECHNOLOGY

Bose^® Sound System

The Bose^® Sound System produced for Alfa Romeo by the US company Bose, a leader in the Hi-Fi sound sector, offers each passenger exceptional listening quality under all driving conditions. The hi-fi system has a power output of 690 W (345 W regular power) and the sound system comprises eight speakers and a subwoofer with a 4-channel amplifier (320 watts maximum power) built into the luggage compartment, which plays the lowest frequencies.

In-car telematic and satellite navigation systems

The Alfa MiTo is a bearer of new technology in terms of its engines and also in terms of the electronic systems it employs to ensure on-board comfort and well-being. An obvious example is the ‘Blue&MeTM system that adds major new features to aid musical enjoyment in this new Alfa Romeo.

Blue&MeTM

Standard equipment on Veloce versions, all versions of the entire Alfa MiTo range may be equipped with Blue&MeTM as an option. This innovative system has been created as a result of a joint venture between Fiat Group Automobiles and Microsoft, that changes the dynamics of in-car communication, information and entertainment to improve comfort and quality of time spent in the car.

The system is extremely simple to use, and allows occupants to make/receive telephone calls and to listen to music simply and safely, while on the move. And thanks to

Bluetooth^® technology, they can also communicate with the outside world from the car, using their own personal equipment, such as mobile phones or handheld computers.

Blue&MeTM is a system that is always able to keep pace with the times, with updatable, flexible and modular features. Fiat Group Automobiles and Microsoft, with the support of Magneti Marelli, also offer a platform that can be adapted to most mobile phones, music players or other personal equipment to replace the current costly and rigid hardware, with the great benefit of being able to constantly keep pace with market innovations and maintain perfect integration with the car.

Blue&MeTM ensures the greatest safety and ease of use. Because the voice control system is fully integrated with keys on the steering wheel and information on the instrument panel display, customers equipped with a Bluetooth^® mobile phone can use it even if it is in a jacket pocket or handbag, without ever taking their hands off the steering wheel. Not to mention the fact that ‘advanced voice recognition’ allows immediate interactivity – no voice learning stage is required – and also allows incoming texts to be read out.

On the Alfa MiTo, Blue&MeTM achieves a further step forward by adding new functions that confirm the platform’s great flexibility. By connecting a digital system to the USB port, it is possible to listen to hours of digital music in MP3, WMA and WAV format recorded on mobile phones, MP3 players and USB pen drives.

For greater compatibility with an i-Pod, it is now possible in a MiTo to listen to music tracks with an AAC extension in addition to the above formats, provided they are free from digital rights (DRM) and saved in Hard Disk Drive mode. For greater passenger comfort, the Alfa MiTo Blue&MeTM also displays information on music tracks in the radio display, (they were previously available on the control panel).



PRICE :





[Source : ALFA ROMEO via NEWSPRESS]
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Carlsson CK63 RS based on Mercedes Benz SL 63 AMG with tuned up performance of the 6.3 litre V8 from 525 hp(386 kW) at 6,800 r.p.m up to 600 hp(411 kW) The torque significantly increases from 630 to 705 Nm and therefore the car only needs 4.1 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 adaption, a maximum speed increase to 325 km/h (202 mph)(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 325 km/h for all models with an electronic device. The Carlsson sport rear muffler from the 600 hp strong CK63 S-Kit not only renders an enormous sound but also 10 extra hp (7 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 asphalt, 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.

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.

Carlsson CK63 RS pricing starts at €272,500.




[Source : CARLSSON]
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• Around 25,000 employees affected
  
• Adjustments in production also help to secure jobs

INGOLSTADT : January 23, 2009 - Audi has decided to institute a phase of reduced work hours for six days between February 20 and 27 at its Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm plants. The arrangement affects some 25,000 employees. Divisions that are not directly associated with the production of automobiles are exempted from the reduced work hours.


Despite the fact that Audi concluded 2008 with the sale of one million cars and a new sales record, the company will not be able to permanently elude the negative impact of the current financial crisis. “The overall demand in some major markets has dropped so drastically, especially in the last few weeks, that we’ve been forced to act,” said Dr. Werner Widuckel, Member of the Board of Management for Human Resources at AUDI AG. “This is our way of reacting to the downward trend in demand on worldwide car markets.” The company is utilizing every possible instrument in its personnel policy arsenal. Personnel and production turntables between the plants have long been successfully used to utilize the capacity at the two locations as evenly as possible. “By reducing work hours we’re securing the jobs of employees and can be confident of having good prospects for the future,” Widuckel emphasized. He added that the company is holding to its long-term targets for growth and is continuing its model initiative as planned.

“Preparations are therefore continuing at full speed for the start of production of the six new models due for launch this year,” said Frank Dreves, Member of the Board of Management for Production at AUDI AG.

Company management and the works council agree that the future of Audi’s permanent staff is secure. This is also confirmed in the Zukunft Audi (Future of Audi) agreement that rules out layoffs due to operational conditions until 2011.

“The works councils in Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm will be able to agree to the company’s proposal for reduced work hours,” said Peter Mosch, Chairman of the General Works Council of AUDI AG. He also emphasized that the reduction in work hours serves to secure jobs. “In the agreement on reduced hours compensation allowance, we agreed with the Board of Management on a gross increase in the reduced hours compensation. Through this, remuneration should for the most part be equalized.”

Norbert Rank, Chairman of the Audi Works Council in Neckarsulm, added: “To avoid burdening the time accounts of our workers any further, the works council is supporting the recommendation of the company management for reduced work hours. We expect the management to step up its efforts to secure jobs at our locations.”

[Source : AUDI]
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Former McLaren designer Jim Dowle (JJAD) first announced details of his eye-catching P1 sports car back in February of last year. The response was universally positive and the subsequent progress has been both rapid and dramatic – in particular, a switch to electric power means the P1-E is destined to be one of the world’s first purpose-built electric sports cars. With stunning acceleration (0-60mph in 2.9 secs), practical range (230 miles), low weight (1,055kg) and a price around £55,000, this gullwing–doored, pocket rocket will be the electric car enthusiasts really will want to own.


Having worked on such landmark projects as the McLaren F1, Dowle knows what it takes to make a drivers’ car. The P1-E’s twin electric motors and attendant lithium-ion batteries are placed for optimum weight distribution and low centre of gravity, while the long wishbones front and rear ensure ideal suspension geometry. Four-wheel drive endows the car with maximum traction. It also allows regenerative braking on each wheel, the energy gained from which is used to top up the batteries.

Said Dowle, “All the electric cars produced to date have been compromised in one way or another and most have been of little attraction to the enthusiast driver. We decided it was time to create an affordable electric sports car that combined the advantages of conventionally-engined machines with those of electric ones, without the disadvantages of either – in short, a drivers’ car for the 21st century.

“Since February we’ve been busy finalising the specification, fine-tuning the styling and seeking appropriate funding, and plan to have our first prototype up and running during 2009. Most of the programme’s key partnerships are now in place, though we’d still welcome approaches from any companies interested in investing in our mould-breaking performance car. Another remaining task is to agree its final name, P1-E being the project’s code.”

[Source : JJAD via NEWSPRESS]
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• Ford wins four awards – best supermini, family car, estate car and Car of the Year
  
• British wins for Jaguar XF and Mini Cooper S
  
• VW Golf GTi wins Reader Award for ‘most exciting car to be launched in 2009’

LONDON : January 22, 2009 - The all-new Ford Fiesta took top honours at the 32nd annual motoring ‘Oscars’, the What Car? Car of the Year Awards 2009.


Ford scooped four awards during the glittering ceremony held at the Grosvenor House Hotel on London’s Park Lane.

What Car? editor Steve Fowler said: ‘The Fiesta is the right car at the right time – small in size, but big on ability. We love the way it looks and the way it drives, but it also stacks up as a shrewd buy, offering space and quality, while being affordable to buy and run”.

The Fiesta was also named best supermini, while Ford’s Mondeo won two awards, for best family car and best estate car.

John Fleming, chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe, said: "This is tremendous news for the whole Ford team – the great British public has already made new Fiesta the UK's best-selling car in the closing months of last year, and this ultimate endorsement by What Car? will drive the new Fiesta to even greater success this year."

Jaguar’s XF, last year’s What Car? Car of the Year, retained its title of best executive car, while the British-built Mini Cooper S won the best hot hatch Award for the third year running.

Volkswagen came away with three Awards including the Readers’ Award for the Golf GTi, voted most exciting new car to go on sale in 2009 by users of whatcar.com and evecars.com. The new VW Golf was also named best small family car, while the VW Eos won the best open-top car Award.

Euro NCAP, the European New Car Assessment Programme, picked up the prestigious What Car? safety accolade for its work in testing and rating the safety of all new cars over the last 10 years and influencing the design of the cars we drive today.

Other winners included the Citroën Grand C4 Picasso – a three-time winner in the MPV category – Nissan’s new GT-R in the performance car category, Volvo’s XC60 in the SUV category and the Audi TT in the coupé category.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown, Conservative party leader David Cameron, and Nick Clegg from the Liberal Democrats recorded messages of support for those who work in the industry in the UK, which were played at the awards.

What Car? Car of The Year Winners 2009



Previous What Car? Car Of The Year Winners


[Source : NEWSPRESS]
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In one of the first commercial examples of under-the-hood metals replacement by Nissan in the company’s European operation, DuPont Minlon and Zytel nylon resins are being used for the rocker and front cover on turbo diesel engines for the Pathfinder model.


The injection molded parts offer top performance in terms of stiffness, strength and dimensional stability —essential for ensuring a tight seal to protect the valve control system and to prevent lubricating oil from escaping. The resins can resist operating temperatures of up to 150 °C as well as exposure to hot oils or chemicals.

The parts were developed by DuPont customers in Spain, with DuPont applications development assistance.

The success of the project opens future possibilities to extend metals replacement to other components on Nissan nameplate models.
—Xavier Soler of DuPont Engineering Polymers

In October 2008, DuPont showed an oil pan module made from Zytel for use in Daimler’s new four-cylinder diesel engines (model OM651). The engine uses a die-cast aluminum upper shell and a multifunctional lower shell made of DuPont Zytel 70G35 HSLR.

[Source : Dupont via Green Car Congress]
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BANGKOK : January 21, 2008 - Up to 40,000 permanent workers in the auto parts industry are at risk of losing jobs as car assembly production dropped by an estimated 40% this month, according to Damri Sukhotanang, the permanent secretary of the Industry Ministry.


After discussions yesterday between automakers and parts makers, participants estimated total vehicle production in January would only be 70,000 instead of the monthly average of 120,000. The reduction stems from shrinking demand and high inventories.

The talks also concluded that around 20% of the 200,000 workers in the auto parts industry were at risk of losing their jobs, especially those working in plastic parts, stamping, casting, trimming and machinery sectors.

There are 1,600 auto parts makers in the country. Mr Damri said parts producers had already cut down their outsourcing and overtime payments to lower costs, and the last measure is inevitably to cut permanent staff.

"Subcontractors were laid off late last year, so contract employees would be the next target," he said.

"It is expected that the severe hardship will be contained to the first half of the year with the industry picking up in the latter half. This possible [total of] 40,000 unemployed is only the result of a first-half slump."

To tackle the labour issue, the Industry Ministry will seek a budget of one billion baht to get 50% of the newly unemployed people into skill training courses so that when the economy picks up, they will be able to re-enter the industry, he said.

The remaining 20,000 workers are expected to be able to shift into other industries.

The budget will come from the six-billion-baht unemployment relief project, which is also a part of the broader 115-billion-baht stimulus package.

Vallop Tiasiri, director of the Thailand Automotive Institute, said the project would train 20,000 workers in a six-month period and each would receive a 5,000 baht monthly allowance.

He added that the forecast for total vehicle output, projected to drop 24% to 1.1 million units this year from 1.4 million last year, is still optimistic as some operators project the recession will take a larger toll on exports and the domestic market may sink below what was expected.

Pramote Vittayasook, the director-general of the Industrial Promotion Department, supports a skills-training programme, but he said he wanted to see a solid plan so that fruitful results can be expected.

He is also hoping a weakening yen will force Japanese automakers to relocate more work to Thailand as it would help ease the impact on labour.

The industry also proposed yesterday that the Finance Ministry consider a tax deduction for car buyers in a bid to spur domestic demand, said Somchai Sujjapong, director-general of the Fiscal Policy Office.

He said the office would take the proposal into consideration. However, he believes the measure would be more effective if it only allowed a tax cut for energy-saving cars.

The industry also asked the Finance Ministry to restructure import duties for vehicles and parts, saying the import duties for completely built units (CBU) is lower than for some auto parts.

[Source : Bangkok Post]
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BANGKOK : January 21, 2009 - The US government's approval of a financial package of US$13.4 billion for General Motors will enable GM Thailand to move ahead with regional plans and reassure customers of its viability, said Steve Carlisle, president of General Motors Southeast Asia Operations Ltd and Chevrolet Sales (Thailand) Ltd.


He said GM Thailand's plans include continued development of auto technology and a restructuring to ensure long-term viability, global competitiveness and energy efficiency.

"Besides our clear strategic direction, other creative initiatives will be implemented to boost sales, enhance production performance and control all unnecessary expenses. We also aim to create flexibility in our working system by rotating tasks and assignments," he said.

Despite the financial crisis in the second half of the year, GM had record sales in Asia Pacific in 2008 and outperformed the industry as a whole.

Growth was led by China, which set a company sales record. Sales also rose in India, Japan and parts of Asean, which enabled GM to be profitable in the Asia Pacific region in 2008. For Asean, GM posted sales of 32,023 last year compared with 29,255 in 2007, a 9.4% increase.

Last year also saw positive results for GM Thailand, which had sales of 23,343, up 9.9% on 21,240 in 2007.

In 2009, GM Thailand and Chevrolet Sales (Thailand) has said it will focus on implementing a suitable marketing plan for the slowdown, enhancing its aftersales service and developing products to meet the requirements of Chevrolet owners.

"GM Thailand and Chevrolet Sales (Thailand) has in plan a series of measures to help us make it through the current global economic crisis with a strong focus on cash conservation and cost reduction," said Mr Carlisle.

"We continue to emphasize quality, safety and cost, which are important aspects for creating a stable future for our company and our stakeholders. In 2009, Chevrolet plans to develop every aspect of our business and continue to play a leadership role in the alternative fuel vehicle market."

[Source : Bangkok]
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SUPER GT's brand new GT300 class machine for the 2009 season, "COROLLA Axio apr GT," was unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon.


The developer of the new machine, apr, has competed in SUPER GT/JGTC with MR-S and MR2 and won driver's title three times in the past. They scored 1 win with MR-S last season. The team with outstanding record chose Corolla Axio as their machine to compete in the '09 season.

At the presentation held at Toyota booth, Team manager/chief engineer Hiroto Kaneso who takes the helm of apr explained the reason for picking a popular road car as their based vehicle. "My team has been using Corolla on the street, and, in spite of having a manual transmission, I often have taken the wheel also. I always thought that the car has everything in a pack: good balance, maneuverability, drivability, etc. From there, I thought 'Would we be able to make a racing car out of it?'"

He described the key points of the development as, "Utilize its characteristics and not to spoil them. Only a few people notice it, but the angle of Axiofs windshield is ideal for a racing car. The size of the car also fits right in the numeric that I consider ideal. MR-S isn't bad either, but it's a little bit peaky. Contrastingly, Axio is easy to handle. If we can carry over the easiness to the racing machine, it would lessen the effort (for drivers)." He revealed the unexpectedly high potential of the car.

"To say 'We will win' is nothing special. In addition, we want to share the fun of racing with Toyota fans, Corolla fans, motorsports fans, and many other people." The team manager expressed his determination for the new season and left a strong message as the leader of one of the top player in the racing industry, apr.

Corolla Axio apr GT specification

Based vehicle : Corolla Axio
Car model : NZE141
Dimensions (L x W) : 4,410mm~1,795mm
Weight : Over 1,100kg
Wheelbase : 2,600mm
Transmission : HEWLAND 6-speed sequential
Suspension: F/R : Double wishbone
Engine model : 2GR-FSE
Engine type : Water-cooled V6 NA (Longitudinal-mounted)
Displacement : 3,500cc
Max power : over 300ps / 6800rpm
Max torque : 39kg-m / 5200rpm
Tire: TBD
Wheel : RAYS F:10.5~18 / R:11.0~18

Images : apr's Toyota Corolla Axio GT-300






[Source : SUPER GT.net]
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STUTTGART : January 22, 2009 - The successful Porsche 911 GT3 RSR takes off into the new model year with extensive modifications. The most powerful race car based on the Porsche 911, which last season secured wins in the American Le Mans Series and at the Nürburgring 24 Hours, competes in the GT2 class at international long distance races. The most distinguishing feature of the new GT3 RSR is the redesigned front with large air outlets on the front hood. Under the light-weight bodyshell, as well, major changes were made to the quickest 911.



Noticeable at first sight are the air outlet slots, or the so-called louvers, on the front hood: an indication of the completely redesigned air ducting of the radiators, which became necessary through the new design of supply and discharge air with the installation of an optional air-conditioning unit. The aerodynamics under the rear underwent further optimisation. The rear wing now features a wider adjustment range. The weight-optimised brake system and the lighter wiring harness contribute to further improved handling, compared to the predecessor model.


The capacity of the well-known six-cylinder boxer engine increased from 3.8 to 4.0-litres. After another reduction in the size of the air restrictors for the 2009 season, the engine now delivers around 450 hp (331 kW) at 7,800 revs per minute and develops a maximum torque of 430 Nm at 7,250 rpm. The rev limiter of the efficient six-cylinder unit kicks in at 9,000 rpm. Compared to the forerunner, the rev level for a given power output was significantly lowered. Thanks to this, the engine features an optimised torque curve and offers better driveability.
In the cockpit, a new multi-function display located above the dashboard indicates the opti-mum moment to change gears. Another new feature is the programmable multi-function, onboard supply system control device, giving teams the choice of many individual functions. One of these is the infinitely adjustable blinking frequency of the lights in the front apron, which helps to immediately recognise race cars when they enter the pits in the dark. For eas-ier servicing under race conditions, other modifications were made. The GT3 RSR now fea-tures a new air-jack system with overpressure valve. The oil refill with fast filling function has now moved to the rear lid, giving mechanics better access.


Aside from GT3 Cup and the GT3 Cup S, the GT3 RSR is the third race car based on the Porsche 911 offered by Porsche Motorsport. About 20 of the successful long distance racers have been built in Weissach and are now being delivered to customer teams around the world. The GT3 RSR costs 380,000 Euro plus VAT specific to each country.

Technical Description Porsche GT3 RSR (2009)

Engine:

• Water-cooled, six-cylinder boxer engine; four valves per cylinder.
  
• Dry sump lubrication; individual throttle butterflies.
  
• Fuel injection; air restrictors 2 x 29.5 mm.

Bore:
102.7 mm

Stroke:
80.4 mm

Capacity:
3,996 cc

Power output:
331 kW (450 bhp) at 7,800 rpm

Max. Torque:
430 Nm at 7,250 rpm

Max. revs:
9,400 rpm

Transmission:

• Six-speed gearbox with sequential jaw-type shift;
  
• Oil/water heat exchanger; single-mass flywheel;
  
• Hydraulic disengagement lever; three-plate carbon-fibre clutch;
  
• Rear wheel drive; limited-slip differential 45/65%.

Body:

• Monocoque body (basis GT3 RS) of hot-galvanised steel;
  
• Aerodynamically optimised front end with front spoiler;
  
• Aerodynamically optimised front underfloor; adjustable
  
• Rear wing; 90-litre safety fuel tank with fast filling function;
  
• Air jack; welded-in safety cage; bucket-type racing seat
  
• (on driver's side only) with flame-resistant seat cover;
  
• Six-point seat belt adapted for use of the HANS - Head and Neck Support; electric fire-extinguishing system.

Suspension:

Front:

• McPherson spring strut axle; Sachs four-way gas pressure dampers;
  
• Double coil springs (main and ancillary spring);
  
• Front axle arms adjustable for camber; adjustable sword-type anti-roll bar on both sides;
  
• Power steering.

Rear:

• Multi-arm axle with rigidly mounted axle sub-frame;
  
• Sachs four-way gas pressure dampers; double coil springs (main and auxiliary spring);
  
• Rear axle tie-bar reinforced and infinitely adjustable; adjustable sword-type anti-roll bar on both sides.

Complete suspension infinitely adjustable (height,camber, track).

Brakes:
Brake system with balance bar control.

Front:

• Single-piece six-piston aluminium fixed callipers;
  
• Inner-vented, 380 mm in diameter; racing brake pads.

Rear:

• Single-piece four-piston aluminium fixed callipers;
  
• Inner-vented, 355 mm in diameter; racing brake pads.

Wheels:

Front:

• Three-piece BBS light-alloy wheels (11J x 18-34); central bolt;

Rear:

• Three-piece BBS light-alloy wheels (13J x 18-12.5); central bolt.

Electrical System:

• Motec display with integrated data recording;
  
• Multi-function display with integrated gearshift indicator;
  
• Adjustable traction control;
  
• Battery: 12 volt, 50 Ah, 140 Ah alternator.

Weight:

• Approx. 1,220 kg complying with A.C.O. regulations,
  
• 1,245 kg complying with FIA regulations.

[Source : PORSCHE]
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TOKYO : January 21, 2009 - imultaneously to the Detroit Auto Show Asia’s leading trade show in the automobile sector took place from January 9th through 11th : the Tokyo Auto Salon. With over 600 cars being presented and more than 300 exhibitors, the convention is the worldwide biggest of its kind.


Promptly to the beginning of the year ABT Sportsline was able to present two of the main sellers from Bavaria. Together with the Lager Cooperation the leading tuner for cars of the Volkswagen group presented its ABT Touareg together with the ABT AS4. “The participation on the Tokyo Auto Salon represents the significant role the Asian market is playing for ABT Sportsline”, says ABT ASIA CEO Wolfgang Kitzeder. “Apart from the economic trend worldwide, ABT Sportsline is going to take the chances the Asian market is giving us for extending our market share”, Kitzeder completes.

[Source : ABT]
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WEST RICHLAND, WA : January 21, 2009 - Shelby SuperCars (SSC) released the details today of the revolutionary electric vehicle technology to be unveiled in the second quarter of this year. SSC will reveal its innovative all-electric powertrain in the current Ultimate Aero, the Guinness Certified "Fastest Production Car in the World," to create the Ultimate Aero EV and will reinforce the company as a benchmark in the auto industry. But unlike other auto manufacturers, SSC's new technology will set a new standard in the electric car industry - one of 10 minute recharges, super horsepower and ranges of up to 200 miles per charge.


While other auto manufacturers focus on producing Green technology for specific cars, SSC's focus is on producing Green technologies for a wide range of applications for an even wider range of vehicles. SSC's electric powertrain package, named AESP (All-Electric Scalable Powertrain) is unique due to its scalable horsepower, light weight, compact size, quick recharge time and liquid cooling.

SSC's Nanotechnology Rechargeable Lithium Battery pack is rechargeable in only 10 minutes on a standard 110 outlet and has a 150-200 mile range on a single charge. This means that in a typical 8 hour day, the car using this technology could go 200 miles, charge for 10 minutes (the time it typically takes to fill up a tank of gas), then drive 200 more miles, charge for 10 minutes and continue on. Some other EV technologies necessitate an overnight charge creating a class of "commuter electric cars" and are not practical alternatives to gas combustion automobiles.

The AESP's main feature is its scalability. The all-electric SUV or delivery truck is now a reality in the not-so-distant future. The AESP is scalable from 200 horsepower for economy and midsize cars, to 500 horsepower for light trucks and SUVs, and up to 1200 horsepower for delivery trucks, heavy duty equipment, buses and military vehicles. The revolutionary design proves electric-powered vehicles not only match, but also provide more linear power (electric motors have 100% torque at 0 RPM) and overall performance than internal combustion vehicles.

SSC Electric Powertrain Technology

• All-electric. No gasoline.
  
• Light weight. Just a fraction of the weight of a standard combustion engine (less than 200lbs.)
  
• Extended performance. Internal cooling systems are built into the motors.
  
• Compact size. 1/18 the space of a standard engine; significant increase in cargo room.
  
• Scalable horsepower. From 200 horsepower (one motor) to 1200 horsepower (two motors "piggy backed").
  
• Quick recharges. Only 10 minutes on standard 110 outlet.

The current AESP was designed to meet the manufacturing and quality requirements of major automotive manufacturers, transportation operators and the military. SSC will wholesale the AESP to mass production car companies, governments, and to public, private, and niche businesses. Costs for mass-produced units are $5K-$6K per unit for 1000 to 10,000 units (with further reduction in unit cost for increased production.)

SSC's next milestone will be the pursuit of the "World's Fastest Electric Car" with the Ultimate Aero EV later this year.

[Source : SSC]
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VALENCIA : January 20, 2009 - The BMW Sauber F1 Team raised the curtain on its 2009 season in Formula One in Valencia this morning. Robert Kubica (24) and Nick Heidfeld (31) unveiled the new BMW Sauber F1.09 shortly after nine o’clock. Kubica then took the car for its first lap of the southern Spanish circuit. The team goes into its fourth season with the ambitious aim of fighting for the World Championship title.


BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen reinforces the point: “We have set ourselves the task of further improving our performance relative to the rest of the field. The 1-2 in Canada and a total of eleven podium finishes in 2008 set an exacting standard. In 2009 we are looking to maintain our first-class reliability record while at the same time enhancing our performance levels so that we can be at the front of the pack on a consistent basis. We are aware that we are aiming extremely high. This is the final step in our development, and that’s generally the hardest one to take.”

Building the new car represented a massive challenge. Fundamental changes to the regulations have, in many cases, consigned the fruits of experience to the dustbin. Development work on what is a radically different race car got underway even earlier than usual. Indeed, the concept phase for the BMW Sauber F1.09 began back in February 2008. The 2009 car cuts a very different figure from all of its predecessors. Its nose is higher and much wider than before. The huge front wing consists of three elements and stretches across the full width of the car. The rear wing, on the other hand, is considerably slimmer – in line with the new regulations – and stands unusually high against the onrushing air. Intricate aerodynamic add-ons, such as air deflectors and cooling air exits, have been reduced to a minimum. Another eye-catching feature are the sidepods, which are now higher at the front.

2009 also marks the return of treadless tyres (slicks) to Formula One. These will deliver increased front-end grip, which makes moving more weight to the nose of the car an attractive proposition. Counteracting this, however, is another new development which the teams have the option of introducing in the upcoming season: KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System). The component parts of this technology add extra weight at the rear of the car. Alongside aerodynamics and the optimum use of the slick tyres, the integration of KERS represents another key challenge for the engineers. To this end, the front axle has been modified and the rear axle is a new design.

Willy Rampf is responsible for the F1.09 concept and will oversee operations at the race track in his capacity as Technical Coordinator. Managing Director of BMW Sauber AG Walter Riedl will lead the technical department at Hinwil in Switzerland and has responsibility for the development of the car.

While the chassis is the work of the Hinwil team, the KERS technology has been developed in Munich. There, Markus Duesmann (Head of Powertrain) and his team also have the job of preparing the BMW V8 engine for the extra mileage stipulated in the regulations. Each driver is allocated eight engines for the total of 17 races in 2009.

It may be all-change in terms of the engineering behind the car, but the men behind the wheel will be the same as in 2008. The BMW Sauber F1 Team will once again line up on the grid with the Pole Robert Kubica and German Nick Heidfeld as its driver pairing. And 26-year-old Austrian Christian Klien also stays with the team as test and reserve driver.

The team’s race drivers both demonstrated impressive reliability in 2008. Kubica racked up the most points for the team. The Pole added his name to the list of Formula One race winners in Canada, brought home the team’s first pole position in Bahrain and also notched up three second places and three third-place finishes during the course of the season. For 2009 he is hoping “that we are as strong at the start of the season as in 2008 and that we can maintain this level of performance up to the final race.”

Kubica’s team-mate Heidfeld, meanwhile, collected four second places and recorded the team’s first two fastest race laps in 2008. Looking ahead to the new season, he says: “The team started work early on the wide range of changes. I’m confident that we’re in good shape and am looking forward to the first race, when we’ll see whether the balance of power has shifted at all.”

The BMW Sauber F1 Team has conducted intensive preparations for 2009 as it attempts to achieve its latest ambitious aim. These have included early testing with KERS and new aero elements. “In the three years since the BMW Sauber F1 Team was formed, we have always met the goals we set ourselves and are confident that we can do so again this season,” explains Theissen. However, no matter how motivated the team may be and how much development work they have behind them, gauging their progress against the competition has never been so difficult – as Theissen acknowledges: “You can plan your level of performance, but not your results.”



[Source : BMW Motorsport]
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MARANELLO : January 21, 2009 – The new photovoltaic system, installed on the roof of Ferrari’s Engine Mechanical Machining facility, was officially unveiled to the world today.


The installation comes as part of Ferrari’s ongoing environmental sustainability and renewable resources investment programme.

The photovoltaic panels will reduce the amount of power Ferrari takes from the national grid by over 210,000 kWh annually. The system is the work of EnerRay, a Maccaferri Group company.

Ferrari’s plan to reduce the environmental impact of its production activities also includes the installation of a trigeneration plant which will be operational by the middle of this year. The new plant will cover virtually all of the company’s electricity requirements, which will in turn cut its CO₂ emissions in 2009 by 25-30% compared to the present levels.

Ferrari’s commitment to environmental sustainability dates all the way back to 2001 when it was awarded ISO 14001 certification; the Prancing Horse also obtained Integrated Environmental Authorisation in 2007.

Over the last few years, Ferrari has also made numerous investments to increase the size and number of green areas both inside and outside its various industrial pavilions. The complex now boasts around 165,000 square metres of green areas with more than 200 trees planted there in the last six months alone.

Our environmental protection investments are also part of the overall Formula Uomo programme launched in the early 1990s by President Luca di Montezemolo to put the individual workers, their needs and skills at the centre of the Company’s activities.

Technical Specifications Of The Photovoltaic System :

• Installed by: EnerRay
  
• Type of system: not integrated – installed on flat roof
  
• Orientation: SOUTH-FACING
  
• Number of modules: 1075
  
• Module type: 185 Wp Mitsubishi Electric
  
• Peak power: 198.85 kWp
  
• Annual electrical output: 213,985 kWh
  
• Number of inverters: 2
  
• Inverter type: Siemens Sinvert Solar 100, master/slave configuration

[Source : NEWSPRESS]
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MILTON KEYNES : January 21, 2009 - Škoda is introducing the new Limited Edition Octavia vRS which is sure to draw the eye of motorists looking to get even more value for their money.



The exclusive 500 run of the performance model features a number of sporty additions and is based on re-aligned vRS with increased specification and upgrades for 2009.

The Octavia vRS Limited Edition, has a unique production number stitched onto the seat and offers over £1,900 worth of added equipment for an added cost of only £750, which includes:

• Bespoke design Italian leather seats
  
• Metallic paint
  
• Limited Edition 18” alloys
  
• New touch screen Bolero radio
  
• 3 spoke leather steering wheel
  
• New interior dash trim
  
• Maxi-dot computer
  
• Red and black limited edition badging on the rear

The car features Anthracite Grey metallic paint available for the first time on vRS, dynamic multi-spoke “limited edition” 18” alloys, while the Octavia’s interior has been produced with bespoke design black and grey premium grade Italian leather sports seats.

As well as the improved specification, the Octavia vRS comes with dual zone climate control, cruise control and Bolero touch screen 6 CD auto changer as standard.

Warren Richards, Product Marketing Manager at Škoda comments: “The Octavia vRS is already astonishingly good and for a select number of drivers we’ve made it even better by creating this exclusive limited edition.


“The additional equipment represents outstanding value for money. Only 500 cars are available, so those looking for a stylish yet affordable driving experience should test drive the limited edition Octavia vRS today.

“We are also very pleased to announce that it will come with an unbelievable offer to kick start the New Year. All VAT on the car will be paid for the customer, ensuring the car is not only desirable but also highly affordable – an irresistible combination.”

Prices start from £16,294.56 (with VAT paid) on the road with a choice of two engines 2.0 T FSI 200 bhp petrol in hatch or the 2.0 TDI CR 170 bhp with DPF in hatch or estate.

[Source : SKODA]
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AFFALTERBACH : January 21, 2009 – With immediate effect, the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class is also available with the AMG sports package. This new, optional package includes sporty and dynamic features, some of which are not available individually. The AMG sports package can be combined with all engine variants and all E-Class design and equipment lines.


The new AMG bodystyling makes for a more sporty appearance and greater emotional appeal. It comprises an AMG front apron with large cooling air intakes, striking AMG side skirts and an AMG rear apron. The exhaust tailpipes are further attractive features: in the four-cylinder petrol models these polished stainless steel tailpipes are of twin oval design , while four-cylinder diesel models have a single, oval tailpipe in polished stainless steel. All the six and eight-cylinder models feature twin, rectangular tailpipes of polished stainless steel integrated into the AMG rear apron.

Other eye-catching details include the completely newly designed 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels, which are painted in sterling silver with a high-sheen finish and are shod with 245/40 R 18 wide-base tyres at the front and 265/35 R 18 tyres at the rear. Perforated brake discs and silver-painted callipers bearing the Mercedes-Benz logo at the front, plus the sporty DIRECT CONTROL suspension lowered by 15 millimetres, are also included in the AMG sports package as standard.
Sports seats and an AMG sports steering wheel with DIRECT SELECT shift paddles

The interior features of the AMG sports package impress with a combination of sportiness and style. Thanks to their optimised contours, the front sports seats provide outstanding lateral support when cornering at speed. The new material combination of DINAMICA microfibre/ARTICO man-made leather with light-coloured, twin decorative seams for the seat upholstery, door armrests and centre console lend a touch of enhanced quality to the interior. The AMG sports package also includes floor mats with AMG lettering, a sports pedal cluster in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs, a black roof lining and a shift/selector lever in nappa leather with chrome highlights. Perfect control is ensured by the AMG sports steering wheel with three spokes and a newly designed rim in nappa leather. In models equipped with an automatic transmission, the gears can be shifted manually using DIRECT SELECT shift paddles. The AMG sports package also includes the manual "M" transmission mode.

Depending on the engine variant and the design and equipment line, the AMG sports package costs between 2915 and 4046 euros (incl. 19 % VAT). It is available from the market launch of the new E-Class in March 2009. The AMG sports package is available for numerous Mercedes-Benz models and is proving increasingly popular, not least thanks to its attractive combination of features and favourable price/value ratio.









[Source : DAIMLER - AMG]
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DETROIT : January 21, 2009 – Ford Motor Company announced today it will introduce an advanced dual-clutch PowerShift six-speed transmission in North America in 2010 for the small-car segment.



PowerShift will deliver the fuel efficiency of a manual gearbox with the convenience and ease of a premium automatic transmission – making it a key enabling technology as Ford targets best-in-class or among-the-best fuel economy with every new vehicle it introduces in North America.

"PowerShift represents a true competitive advantage for Ford and is one of the many technologies that will help our global small-car platforms set a new world standard for efficiency and drive quality," said Barb Samardzich, vice president, Global Powertrain Engineering, who announced PowerShift's production timing at the 2009 Automotive News World Congress. "This advanced six-speed is an improvement over today's automatic transmissions in terms of fuel economy, while providing customers an even more fun-to-drive experience."


Overall, Ford has committed that almost 100 percent of its transmissions will be advanced six-speed gearboxes by 2013. Six-speed transmissions already have helped vehicles such as the 2010 Ford Fusion achieve best-in-class fuel economy, while at the same time allowing the Ford Flex and Ford Escape to achieve unsurpassed fuel economy in their respective segments.

Ford is leveraging six-speed transmissions, advanced internal combustion engines such as EcoBoost, hybrids, full electric vehicles, vehicle weight reduction and electric power-assisted steering to improve fuel economy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions fleet-wide by 30 percent by 2020.

Automatic Comfort
Compared to traditional automatic four-speed transmissions, PowerShift can help reduce fuel consumption by up to 9 percent depending on the application.

PowerShift provides the full comfort of an automatic with a more sophisticated driving dynamic, thanks to uninterrupted torque from the dual-clutch technology, which consists essentially of two manual transmissions working in parallel, each with its own independent clutch unit. One clutch carries the uneven gears – 1, 3 and 5 – while the other the even gears – 2, 4 and 6. Subsequent gear changes are coordinated between both clutches as they engage and disengage for a seamless delivery of torque to the wheels.

In Europe, Ford currently offers a PowerShift transmission in the Ford Focus. This PowerShift uses a twin wet-clutch system to handle the higher torque levels of the 2.0-liter TDCI engine available in the Focus.

In North America, a dry-clutch derivative of Ford's PowerShift transmission will be used for added efficiency and durability. A dry clutch transmits power and torque through manual transmission clutch facings, while most automatic transmissions utilize wet clutch plates submerged in oil. As a result, the dry-clutch PowerShift transmission does not require an oil pump or torque converter, providing superior mechanical efficiency.

"A dry clutch is a real sweet spot for lighter vehicle applications," said Piero Aversa, manager, Ford Automatic Transmission Engineering. "PowerShift is more efficient, it saves weight, is more durable, more efficient and the unit is sealed for life, requiring no regular maintenance."

PowerShift, unlike conventional automatic transmissions, does not need the heavier torque converter or planetary gears. In addition, the dry-clutch derivative eliminates the need for the weighty pumps, hydraulic fluids, cooling lines and external coolers that wet clutch transmissions require. As a result, the dry-clutch PowerShift transmission can weigh nearly 30 pounds less than, for example, the four-speed automatic transmission featured on today's Ford Focus.

Differentiating PowerShift even further in terms of its customer appeal is its shift quality, launch feel and overall drive dynamic, which are all facilitated by an expert blend of Ford-exclusive electro-mechanical systems, software features, calibrations and controls. These unique driving features include:

• Neutral coast down – The clutches will disengage when the brakes are applied, improving coasting downshifts and clutch robustness as well as reducing parasitic losses for increased fuel economy.
  
• Precise clutch control in the form of a clutch slip to provide torsional damping of the engine vibration – This function improves noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) at low engine speeds and enables lower lugging limits for improved fuel economy.
  
• Low-speed driving or creep mode with integrated brake pressure – This function simulates the low-speed control drivers are accustomed to from an automatic transmission. The amount of rolling torque in Drive and Reverse is precisely controlled, gradually building as brake pressure is released.
  
• Hill mode or launch assist – Prevents a vehicle from rolling back on a grade by maintaining brake pressure until the engine delivers enough torque to move the vehicle up the hill, providing improved driver confidence, comfort, safety and clutch robustness.

[Source : FORD, Gearbox Image Courtesy of ae-plus]
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Last week, Honda made the world debut of the new Insight Hybrid at 2009 NAIAS. Yesterday Honda Europe has released full details of the Insight hybrid model as followed :



INTRODUCTION

• 5-door family hatchback with Honda's petrol-electric IMA system
  
• Combines practicality and flexibility in an affordable package
  
• Low emissions and great fuel economy based on real world driving conditions
  
• Unique Eco Assist driver coaching system that can help any driver maximise fuel economy
  
• Sleek, sporty and aerodynamic design influenced by FCX Clarity
  
• Practical and spacious interior to accommodate five passengers
  
• Flexible and class-leading load space of 408-litres
  
• Generous value for money specification
  
• Honda's enviable build quality and low running costs
  
• Excellent crash protection for occupants and pedestrians

Honda first marketed the original Insight Hybrid in 1999 and has been working on the technology for almost two decades.

The motivation behind pursuing this technology is fundamental and basic, avoiding waste. In simple terms, the energy from braking on a car with a conventional drivetrain is lost by being converted into energy that disappears into the atmosphere as heat and noise. The task Honda's R&D engineers set themselves was to harness this energy to the benefit of the customer and the environment.

One decade on, Honda is launching a new Insight that takes those core principles and extends them, allowing a customer to carry their family and luggage in an efficient, flexible and affordable vehicle.

The Direction of the Honda Insight

The aim was to make petrol-electric technology available to more people by developing a family hybrid car that was more affordable.

The Insight is a 5-door hatchback with Honda's IMA hybrid system that offers low-emission, fuel efficient motoring in a practical, no-compromise offering -to make an attractive, lower cost package.

Honda expects this car to have a significant impact on the industry. Because the Insight will be more affordable to more people, it makes cleaner car technology accessible to a completely new group of car buyers - opening the hybrid market to a new section of society.

That's why the main aim in the development to reduce the size, complexity and price of components and systems to drive that final retail price down. Honda wants to bring hybrid technology to a wider market, but knows that the price, or the perceived price, of cleaner cars has prevented some car buyers from even looking at them seriously. Honda wants those people who've never considered buying a hybrid car to try one for size.

It is one thing to develop an ultra-green product, that only the affluent can afford, but in its quest to be a company that society wants to exist, Honda challenged its engineers to build a hybrid for everyone.

Making it Affordable

The Insight is the culmination of over 20 years of hybrid development and more than 35 years of lower impact petrol engine development, which started with the CVCC engine in 1972.

That experience and technical knowledge has enabled Honda to develop the components and parts in our IMA system so they can be produced at a lower cost.

Honda has also been building production hybrids for a decade. In that time, a lot has been learnt about the production of electric motors and other key parts of the hybrid system. This understanding has led to improved production equipment and techniques, which will reduce production costs. And because the major hybrid components are produced in-house, this also helps to control overall costs.

"Our engineers have shown great tenacity and skill in reducing the cost of our IMA system to allow us to reduce the build costs of the Insight. By using so many components that are manufactured in-house, we have the ability in the market to continuously refine our processes in a way an outside supplier might not." Yasunari Seki, Insight Large Project Leader

The plan to produce and sell a much larger number of hybrid cars than before leads to economies of scale, and thus a lower final cost per unit. To achieve these numbers, a new electric motor production line has been added to the Suzuka factory, in Japan, which will double its per hour production capacity for IMA motors.

There are also specific product developments that helped keep the costs down:

1. 95 per cent of the IMA unit was redesigned to reduce both size and cost
   
2. It was a bespoke model, so any additional costs required to ‘shoe-horn' technology into an existing model (eg. Civic Hybrid) were eliminated
   
3. The platform and chassis share many components with that of the new Jazz

All the cost-saving doesn't mean cutting corners or compromising on performance or durability. Engineers have focussed on finding engineering solutions to drive costs down, developing the most efficient hybrid technology at the lowest possible cost to the customer.

The Motivation for Building an Affordable Hybrid

A key part of Honda's global philosophy is to be "a company that society wants to exist". And while that may at first sound like another piece of marketing strategy speak, it is a mantra that is followed the world over, starting with the R&D centres.

This philosophy helps explain why the marketing of a more affordable hybrid car; it's part of Honda's efforts to have a positive impact on society.

Honda could have chosen to place this cleaner technology in high-end cars; showpiece environmental machines to sell at a premium rate to a low number of customers. There's probably an argument that says there's more money per unit in that approach.

However, in line with Honda's philosophies, beliefs and heritage, the approach was to bring low emission hybrid technology to the masses by using our engineering experience to reduce the costs and therefore the retail price.

As well as introducing new sections of society to cleaner cars, this should also help increase the sales volume of hybrid cars - which will have a positive effect on overall emissions figures, and therefore the environment.


Fuel Consumption and Emissions Improvements

The fuel economy (combined) is 4.4 l/100km, while CO₂ emissions are as low as 101g/km.

Honda has concentrated on developing a car that will deliver better fuel economy in the ‘real world', taking into account the actual conditions in which the car will be driven by their customers.

Honda would rather concentrate on delivering the kind of economy customers can see and experience every day, whether driving with the heater and head lights on during the winter or with the stereo pumping and the air conditioning hard at work heat of the summer. These are the real world working environments in which the Insight has been designed to excel.

Honda has produced an affordable, efficient, exceptionally frugal and low emission car but there are styles and techniques of driving that can be employed to take even greater advantage of the hybrid technology. The Eco Assist system developed for the Insight, will train drivers, helping them achieve the best possible fuel economy.

The Insight's unique driver coaching system marks a new era of motoring where manufacturers and individual drivers share responsibility for their final fuel consumption.

Target Customers

Because the Insight is designed to bring hybrid technology to a wider audience, equally Honda expects the car to appeal to a broad customer base.

The majority of customers will be new-to-hybrid, traditional C-sector customers that are looking to replace their conventional family car with a more efficient one. They may have deemed a hybrid too expensive previously, but will appreciate the Insight's roomy proportions and low running costs, as well as the outright purchase price.

For the same reason, Honda expects some existing hybrid customers and owners of more conventional, low CO₂ models to move across into the Insight, making the most of the advancements in cost-reducing technologies.

Sales Targets

Honda aims to sell 200,000 Insights each year.
Global sales are planned at 200,000 units with the US taking 100,000 of these cars.

As CEO and President, Mr Fukui has already announced, hybrids will make up 10 per cent of Honda's total car sales by the middle of the next decade and to achieve this target, Honda will also launch a sporty hybrid (based on CR-Z) and a Jazz Hybrid over the next few years. With these four hybrid cars, Honda is targeting to sell over 500,000 hybrids globally per year.


Hatchback Practicality and Aerodynamics

"The reason we chose a 5-door hatchback was that we wanted the car to be popular in Europe," says Yasunari Seki, Large Project Leader. "American Honda - the biggest market - asked us to build a car with a boot, but we insisted on a hatchback, because to compete with other green cars and sell more in Europe, it had to be a 5-door design. Of course, aerodynamically it is also a more favourable shape."

Exterior Styling

As a low emission hybrid car, it was important for the Insight's design to express its environmental credentials. It had to look like a ‘green' car but it also had to appear dynamic and fun to drive.

Above all, the Insight had to appeal to a broad range of people globally and another important factor related to this was the body style itself. Customer research showed that 5-door body shapes were most popular, and so this layout was chosen to appeal to as many people as possible.

Thirdly, the Insight takes many styling cues from the FCX Clarity. This was deliberate to position the Insight as a recognisable, global car with green credentials as well as the aerodynamic advantages of the body shape.

Where will the Insight be built?

The Insight will be produced at Honda's Suzuka factory in Japan where a new hybrid motor production line has been added to double the motor production capacity.

When does it go on sale?

The Insight will go on sale in European Market from Spring 2009.


Downsizing

With the world in the grip of an economic downturn, the trend for downsizing is expected to continue, with more people moving from thirsty larger vehicles into smaller, more efficient machines.

A poll on one motoring website showed that two thirds of car buyers will opt for a greener car next time around. However the vast majority said the main reason was to save money, not necessarily to be green.



EXTERIOR DESIGN

Although the design team started with a blank piece of paper - in that this was a brand new model with no history - they faced many challenges in creating the exterior appearance of the Insight.

On the one hand, as a low emission hybrid car, it had to express environmental credentials - it had to look like a ‘green' car - but on the other hand it had to appear dynamic and fun to drive; part of Honda's key design principles. Above all, in line with the positioning of Insight, the design had to appeal to a broad range of people.

"We wanted the car to be widely accepted," says Creative Chief Designer, Motoaki Minowa. "If we just created an environmentally-friendly car it could have looked dull, or boring. We wanted to insert a sporty factor to make the car more appealing - and after all, sportiness is in Honda's DNA."

While the ‘greenness' of the car may have challenged the sporty direction of the overall design, in some areas it actually helped the dynamic cause. Because the newly-developed IMA system is more compact, it meant the nose of the car could be shorter, creating a snubbed, more aggressive look to the front end.

Another important factor that led (and to some extent restricted) the exterior design was the bodystyle itself. To appeal to as many people as possible, a 5-door layout was chosen, and this brought its own challenges, particularly when optimising the aerodynamics of the car, and creating enough headroom for passengers in the rear

"The reason we chose a 5-door hatchback was that we wanted the car to be popular in Europe," says Yasunari Seki, Large Project Leader. "American Honda - the biggest market - asked us to build a car with a boot, but we decided on a 5-door design because to compete with other green cars and sell more in Europe, it had to be a 5-door hatchback. Of course, aerodynamically it is also a more favourable shape."

One thing that didn't restrict the area of design was the budget, even though the rest of the project was so concerned with reducing costs. If anything, the development team spent more money getting the appearance of the car right. Adding an extra window to the rear quarter, for example, was costly, but was essential in creating a sleeker look. "The car had to be stylish and make its owner feel proud," says Mr Minowa.

Many will have noticed the similarity in the overall shape and look of the Insight to its fuel cell cousin, the FCX Clarity. As well as the aerodynamic advantages of this shape, Mr Minowa says there's a definite reason for mimicking the body style of the advanced hydrogen-powered car.

"We intentionally tried to make the Insight look like a baby version of the Clarity," he says. "There are some design treatments and colouring effects we have taken from the FCX, but basically the car's shape is very similar. FCX Clarity is the leader, the most advanced car, the ultimate clean car - and we want the Insight to follow that lead. In a way, because the new Insight takes design cues from the old car and from the FCX, it is bridging the gap between the past and the future."


Lights

The Insight adopts slim, projector-style headlights in a 4-light cluster. The headlight's low beam has blue detailing, and the indicators are located in the lower bumper face.


At the rear, the Insight uses LEDs for the taillights and stop lamps. LEDs consume less power, which aids fuel economy. But rather than just replacing bulbs with LEDs, the designers attempted to ‘spread the light' through the design of the taillight unit and the use of reflective surfaces.

While there were many considerations and factors that affected the exterior design, it was aerodynamics that most governed the shape and look of the Insight.

Making the car as slippery as possible exaggerates the already frugal hybrid technology on board the Insight, increasing fuel economy. So the design team set about creating a shape that had minimal drag. Elsewhere we've spoken about the similarity in the exterior design to that of the FCX Clarity, but that likeness is closest when the two cars are viewed in profile. It's clear that the rear sections of these two cars are almost identical in shape - and for good reason.

Firstly, the line from the centre of the roof to the top of the boot lid is at the optimum angle for controlling the flow of air off the top of the car, with minimum turbulence. Also, you'll notice that the top half of the body tapers in towards the rear of the car, which also helps the air flow travel smoothly over the car. Stable air flow over this section helps the car pass through the air with minimal drag.

"The concept for the main shape of the car is called ‘Aero Athlete'," says Mr Minowa. "It reflects a sporty, lean body with no fat, the tension of muscles and nothing unnecessary added."

The shape of the tailgate is also very important - again, compare the Insight's boot to that of the FCX Clarity, or CRZ, or even the original Insight. They all share the same shape and lines to help the aerodynamics.

"We learnt a lot about aerodynamics from the first Insight," says Mr Minowa, Creative Chief Designer. "From the B-pillar back the two cars are very similar, but we couldn't have radical optimisations like the covered wheels, for example, as this Insight had to have more appeal."

The lower body sections are much wider, which also helps the aerodynamic qualities, and provides a stable, wide stance - giving the car a more masculine appearance.

Paint

There are eight exterior paint colours: Spectrum White Silver Pearl, Cerulean Blue Metallic, Alabaster Silver Metallic, Polished Metal Metallic, Neutron Blue Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Urban Titanium Metallic and Milano Red.

Aero Athlete

This was the overall design theme for the exterior appearance of the Insight. Aero stems from the desire to minimise drag and reduce frontal area, while retaining an attractive and sporty character. The shape has been tested repeatedly in a wind tunnel and was effectively shaped by the wind. The athlete part of the concept refers to a taut, honed body, without unnecessary weight or excessive bulk. Dynamic visual tension forms in the panels of Insight like muscle of an athlete. The sensuous shape of "Aero Tail" is formed by Aerodynamics and as similar shape can be seen on the rear of the FCX Clarity and the original Insight models.

The shape of cabin is integrated into the bonnet and flows into the shape of front grille which enhances the bold hexagon shape of the lower part of the bumper. The front design incorporates the identity of FCX Clarity to recognize the fuel cell car's status as an environmental pioneer.

CHASSIS

The Insight chassis is newly designed, but in the quest to produce an affordable car with compact dimensions, it is based on components used for the latest Jazz - and as such, it shares some components (suspension brakes and steering) and characteristics with the supermini. From the starting point of Jazz, engineers devised a package that accommodates the hybrid system, provides space for adults to sit in comfort and allows room for the impressive load space.

The structure of the engine compartment and front section of the car is almost identical to Jazz, with some minor alterations to aid crash protection, but behind the front bulkhead the platform is unique to Insight. The wheelbase is 2550mm (50mm longer than that of the Jazz).

Upon this platform, front and rear suspension from the Jazz are used, which means MacPherson struts at the front, and an H-shaped torsion beam at the rear to keep the load floor low, increasing luggage capacity inside.

Dynamically, the goal was to achieve pliant, but stable handling performance in a range of conditions and on a mixture of road surfaces.

Relocating the fuel tank

Although it shares many commonalities, perhaps the most significant difference between the Jazz and the Insight platform is the position of the fuel tank. Many of you will be familiar with the Jazz's distinctive central tank layout, under the front seats, which helps make the car so versatile, but on the Insight platform, the decision was taken to put the fuel tank under the rear seats.

This meant that the seating for occupants could be mounted lower in the car, resulting in a lower roof, smaller cross-section area, and thus a more aerodynamic body shape, which assists fuel economy at high speed.

Brakes

The braking system comprises of front and rear discs matched with ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist as standard equipment.

Honda engineers concentrated on delivering effective stopping power with a linear, natural feel to the pedal, both in normal daily use and when heavier braking is required.


Wheels and tyres

The Insight is fitted with a seven-spoke alloy design, to enhance the sporty image of the car.

Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)

All Insight grades are equipped with Honda's Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system, designed to assist the driver in maintaining control during cornering, acceleration and sudden manoeuvres by applying braking to the right or left hand wheels as necessary and managing the engine torque systems.

At its simplest level, VSA has a traction control function whereby it detects wheel slip under acceleration and coordinates the use of braking and engine torque to regain traction. In situations where the driven wheels are on surfaces with different levels of traction, such as a partially wet road surface, the system applies braking action to the wheel that's slipping, allowing the tyre with better grip to move the vehicle. In addition, the system reduces engine output to minimise wheelspin.

An indicator light flashes on the instrument panel while the system is actively enhancing the stability of the vehicle. A cockpit switch to the side of the instrument panel is provided to disable the VSA.

Warranty

The Insight is covered by a 3-year / 144,000 km standard warranty, 3-year surface corrosion warranty, 5-year exhaust system warranty and 12-year structural corrosion warranty - plus, a unique 8-year warranty for the entire IMA system, including high-power battery.


ENGINE, MOTOR AND TRANSMISSION

Honda's IMA hybrid system concept is now 10 years old - having made its debut in the original Insight back in 1999. IMA stands for Integrated Motor Assist, which consists of a low-friction 1.3 litre engine that serves as the primary power source, an ultra thin electric motor, a lightweight and compact battery with a continuously variable transmission. (see Why IMA?, p19).

This system has been used successfully in not only the Insight, but also the Civic IMA, and its successor, the Civic Hybrid. Over the years the system has evolved and become smaller, more lightweight and less expensive to produce, and the latest version in the new Insight is the most advanced IMA technology introduced by Honda to date. The fifth generation IMA system in the Insight is 24% more compact than the fourth generation system freeing up space for luggage.

The engine itself is new, but is based heavily on the 1.3-litre from the Civic Hybrid. This modified i-VTEC unit from the Civic Hybrid has been further enhanced with lessons learned from the Jazz incorporated to improve fuel economy. The low friction, pattern coated piston design has been combined with a new catalyst design to further optimise this already highly efficient power unit. These measures along with a further stabilised combustion process give a fuel economy improvement for the engine alone of 2% on what is already a highly-efficient unit.

During deceleration, when the engine's cylinders have no load on them and so combustion in all four cylinders is stopped and each pot is sealed shut. This virtually eliminates the pumping losses, decreasing resistance to allow the motor/generator to operate more efficiently and increase energy recovery to charge the battery.

The technology used to shut the cylinders, VCM (for Variable Cylinder Management), is also used to shut all four cylinders when only little torque is required - during low speed cruising for example. In this mode the Insight is powered by the electric motor only, with the pistons running idle.

In addition, virtually everything possible has been done to the engine to reduce friction, including an offset crankshaft/connecting rod design, plateau honing of the cylinders for a smoother surface and a second low friction piston ring.

On its own, the engine produces 88PS and 121Nm of torque, but the key to hybrid systems is the support given by the electric motor that can help boost performance as well as keep emissions and fuel consumption to a minimum.

Electric motor

As well as a new engine, the Insight gets a new, improved motor which uses coils with high-density windings and high-performance magnets to produce 14PS and 78 Nm. But the real step-forward with the motor has been its size and shape - the latest version is much thinner than the motor in the current Civic Hybrid (35.7mm vs 61.5mm), which means the entire IMA system is more compact and lightweight.

Improvements have also been made to the high-power battery, which is located under the boot to help lower the centre of gravity. The IPU is smaller and lighter than that found in the Civic hybrid, with size reduced by 19% and weight by an impressive 28%.

The cooling system for the battery has been much improved, which means it's more efficient in its use of power, and can feed it to the electric motor more often. A motor on the side of the battery pack draws through air from pipes leading to intakes outside of the rear seat bolster in the car (on the Civic Hybrid, the air intake is on the parcel shelf, which can be obstructed).

The recovery speed of the battery has also improved, meaning that with power from regenerative braking, it can charge more quickly and therefore deliver power to the electric motor more regularly.

Performance

When combined, the motor and engine produce lively performance ideal for urban environments, with good throttle response and acceleration times to rival conventional 1.6-litre petrol cars with automatic gearboxes. The Insight reaches 100 km/h from a standing start in 12.6 nds, and goes on to a top speed of 186 km/h.


Transmission

Using a CVT transmission in a hybrid provides smooth and predictable gear transitions and helps keep the IMA system operating in its most efficient range. In the Insight, an evolution of the high-torque CVT unit from the Civic Hybrid is used.

This version of CVT has a lower final drive gear ratio (4.200 from 3.937), which results in faster-acting initial acceleration performance.

The start clutch control has been redesigned to take full advantage of the characteristics of the IMA motor that delivers more torque at lower revs. By engaging at lower revs to enhance initial acceleration and contribute to fuel efficiency.

Also, for the first time on a Honda hybrid, the Insight benefits from paddle shifts, so quick gear changes can be made from levers just behind the steering wheel.

Emissions/economy

Of course, one of the major benefits of hybrid powertrains is that they can reduce exhaust emissions and boost fuel economy. And when the systems are placed within a purpose-built, aerodynamic body, the advantages are enhanced. The Insight performs well in government emissions and economy testing, achieving 101g/km and 4.4 l/100km (combined) - but that's not the whole story.

Life Cycle Assessments

As a matter of course, Honda carries out a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) Programme for all of its vehicles which looks at the CO₂ emissions at each stage of a car's life cycle, including production.

Honda developed this programme in 2007 to introduce a product specific LCA system to investigate the volume of CO₂ emissions associated with the whole life cycle of each Honda vehicle. This allows Honda to compare the environmental impact of the manufacturing stage and indeed the whole life cycle of their hybrid cars.

The findings demonstrated two things, the importance of the ‘use stage' in a car's life cycle CO₂ emissions, and that there is very little difference between the CO₂ emissions associated with the raw material and production stages of hybrids compared to conventional cars.

The Insight will be produced at the Suzuka plant, the same as the Civic Hybrid as well as many non-hybrid products.

Eco Assist

A few years ago, while monitoring customer use of the Jazz, the Insight development team found that there were significant differences in the fuel economy achieved from one driver to another. For example, at an average speed of 30km/h (20mph), there were differences of up to 21 per cent in the actual fuel consumption being recorded by different drivers. With this in mind, the engineers tweaked the car's management system in an attempt to minimise the effect of varying driving styles on fuel economy. When the tests were repeated, the least efficient drivers improved their results, and the difference between all the results was reduced to 12 per cent.

Honda has taken these learnings into the development of Insight, and the result is the ECON switch. When activated by the driver, this switch tells the car's management system to adopt specific settings to improve fuel consumption. It does this without affecting overall safety levels or the general usability of the car.

When the ECON switch is depressed, the Insight enters a ‘super economy' mode, resulting in the following:

• Power output is limited and torque is reduced by 4 per cent (except when the driver presses the pedal to the floor)
  
• Smoothes driver accelerator input to optimise throttle position and engine speed. At any engine speed, there is an optimum throttle angle, which if maintained, results in the best fuel efficiency. But some drivers apply a more on/off approach to throttle control, often pressing the accelerator down too far. To counteract this, the system ‘smoothes out' driver input by maintaining the throttle opening to match the speed and conditions.
  
• Smoother CVT shift pattern
  
• Regenerative brake energy is increased
  
• Idle stop time is increased
  
• Air conditioning operates more frequently in the recirculation mode
  
• The fan blower power is reduced more frequently to limit the system's consumption of energy
  
• During Idle Stop mode (the engine turning off when the car is stationary), the air conditioning shuts down.

The ECON button

A few interesting facts about that helpful green switch:

• ECON stands for Effective CONtrol
  
• The different sections of the symbol are designed to reflect a tree growing
  
• If you turn the tree symbol on its side, the symbol reads ‘ECO'

Eco Guidance

"Our work as engineers is not just to develop and deliver products to our customers - it is also to devise ways to help them use those products even better." -Yasunari Seki, Large Project Leader of Insight.

While the petrol-electric IMA system is already incredibly efficient in its use of fuel, there are driving styles and techniques that can be employed to take greatest advantage of the hybrid technology.

Driving as smoothly as possible, without heavy acceleration or braking, reduces excessive fuel consumption and allows the high-power battery to remain charged, which in turn means it can power the electric motor to support the engine more regularly, resulting in greater fuel economy. And driving without a heavy right foot generally equals better fuel consumption anyway.

That may sound easy in theory, but in practice it can be tricky to change the way you've been driving, in some cases for decades. Honda is not expecting everyone to know how to drive like an eco-warrior - or indeed, to have to monitor the way they drive to get more miles from a tank of fuel.

Instead, Honda has developed some useful technology to help Insight owners become more efficient behind the wheel. It's called Eco Assist, and it does what it says on the tin.

The great thing about Honda's Driver Coaching technology is that it's not a fixed set of rules to follow, or a limit on what you can and can't do as a driver. It's a simple system that rewards the driver if they adopt a certain driving style.

Together with the ECON switch, the guidance function can be used to achieve high fuel economy and thus minimise harmful exhaust emissions.

During driving, there are two main elements to the system: an ‘eco drive bar' indicator within the black and white Multi Info Display (MID), and an ambient meter behind the digital speedometer display. Both instruments are synchronised, to give ‘real time' information on the consumption of fuel and provide guidance on how you should alter your driving style.

The ‘eco guide bar' in the MID is a solid bar symbol that moves to either side of a central line. The idea is to drive in a way that keeps the bar in the centre and away from the shaded/dotted areas on either side.

When driving smoothly, and thus efficiently, the bar stays near the centre of the indicator, shifting slightly right during gradual acceleration and slightly to the left when braking gently. During these conditions, the ambient meter behind the speed display glows a green colour to show optimum economical driving performance.

Under greater acceleration, or when braking moderately, the bar in the MID shifts more towards either end of the scale, showing the use of more fuel, and the ambient meter glows a green/blue colour.

With aggressive acceleration, or sudden braking, the indicator bar will head to the right or left, deep into the shaded areas of the scale to show major fuel consumption and the ambient meter turns blue respectively.

In order to achieve the best fuel consumption figures, the driver should aim to keep the bar in the centre, and the display glowing green as much as possible throughout each journey.

To help motivate Insight drivers during each journey, another display above the bar indicator grants rewards for more efficient driving. If performing well, small leaves will ‘grow' above the bar to show the driver's eco-progress, with more leaves and eventually a flower added if the system records a ‘perfect' score.

Also, by pressing the Info button on the steering wheel, and scrolling through the MID displays, drivers can not only look at their average mpg of the current trip, but can also retrieve their average fuel economy of the last three journeys.

Eco Scoring

Once a journey is over, and the ignition is turned off, the black and white ‘eco guide' in the MID changes to an ‘eco score' display. Now, the leaf symbols at the top report on the driver's performance during the last drive, while the bar and symbols at the bottom of the display show a lifetime score. This is shown in three stages with the fully grown tree and flower to the right of the bar showing the best score.

If the driver's stage has improved since the last journey, a recognition symbol with wreathes is displayed. At the end of the third stage a trophy symbol appears indicating good progress.

Conversely, if the driving style is worse, and the lifetime score and stage regresses, then the recognition symbol of a withering plant is displayed.

VERSATILITY

As the Insight will bring hybrid technology to a completely new audience, its design had to be versatile enough to meet the demanding requirements of such a varied customer base. Be it transporting the children, grandchildren, grandparents or carrying shopping to gardening equipment, the Insight can fit it all in.


Load space

In terms of boot for your buck, the Insight stacks up well. Relocating the smaller, more compact IPU (high-power battery pack) under the floor of the cargo area means there is 400-litres of luggage space (VDA). This rivals most C-sector competitors, exceeding luggage capacities of several of the key players.

As on the latest Jazz and Civic, a sunken well under the cargo floor provides an additional 8-litres storage space - an ideal space for items that are wet and need to be kept separate or for possessions that need to be concealed.

For larger loads, the 60:40 split folding rear seats fold down to open up a 584-litre flat load area. As in the latest Jazz, integrated headrests mean the rear seats drop down easily, without needing to remove the headrests or adjust the front passenger seat.

The boot floor can be configured in two different ways to accommodate different loads. For large items like pushchairs, suitcases, golf bags or trolleys it can be kept in the normal flat position, making best use of the boot's ample dimensions. Alternatively, the cargo floor can be dropped down to a lower position, creating a large rectangular recess (as on Civic) capable of carrying taller items or shopping bags and things prone to rolling around.

The 8-litre storage well beneath the boot floor can be accessed in either configuration by lifting the small rectangular cover. And there's an additional storage compartment on the left hand side of the boot also.

The tonneau cover can be pulled taught to conceal the boot contents. However, to accommodate taller items it can be stored just under the floor board in the fittings specially provided.

Cabin storage

The designers have squeezed every inch of possible storage space out of the Insight. There are six cup/bottle holders spread throughout the cabin - two integrated into the wide and spacious door bins, two in the rear doors and two cup holders ahead of the gear stick. In front of the front cup holders there is a detachable partition box useful for storing sunglasses, mobile phones and other smaller items.

The armrest storage box between the driver and front passenger houses the USB port (ES models only) for this purpose, an iPod pocket can also be found inside the storage box. As well as room for CDs, keys and other items better kept out of sight, there's a rubber band on the underside of the lid to hold sunglasses in place.

Storage recesses for smaller items can be found in each of the doors behind the electric window buttons and another right below the audio system for keys fobs, cards and smaller items best kept away from prying eyes. All models feature a passenger seatback pocket.


INTERIOR

The Insight has been designed to comfortably accommodate five passengers, cleverly packaged within an aerodynamic shell.

Within this sleek exterior, the Insight can still boast headroom and tandem distances among the best in class and rival many medium sized cars.

An inviting and airy interior has been created with clever designs that give an increased sense of space, and practicality.

Convex shapes have been used wherever possible to reduce mass of the interior plastics and create a sense of space, particularly where passengers sit. This moves away from the traditional interior design rules that mainly dictate concave surfaces.

For instance, the front dash is split into two distinct sections. The lower light-coloured section is convex and curves away from the driver and front seat passenger giving a greater sense of space and leg room while the upper, darker section surrounds the front occupants, the driver in particular, to give the feeling of a cockpit-style cabin.

Special attention was paid to outward visibility. Forward visibility is excellent thanks to slim A-pillars, large front door window surfaces that do not require a separate pillared front quarter window, and the same cabin-forward design used for the latest Jazz. Equally, the integrated window in the boot enables good low, rearward visibility, allowing the driver to see a low post, or child behind the vehicle. In addition, retractable rear headrests and rear three quarter lights increase rearward visibility.


Generous specification

High quality, tactile materials, stylish designs and tasteful colours have been used throughout the cabin. Plastics have a soft-touch leather-like appearance and fabrics are plush and comfortable.

Two interior upholstery colour combinations are available - dark royal blue with cream or warm, creamy beige. Seats are covered in two textured fabrics - a dotted pattern for the seating and soft suede-like material for the side bolsters. All models are equipped with active headrests for greater safety.

The steering wheel is fully adjustable for reach and rake to ensure drivers of all heights can be accommodated. A slim armrest and dead foot rest are also provided for extra comfort.

Also fitted as standard across the range are one-touch indicators for easy lane changing on motorways, an adjustable driver's seat, foot rest, passenger seat back pocket and vanity mirrors for both driver and front passenger.


Instrument panel

The two-tiered instrument panel allows the driver to focus on the important information - the speedometer above the steering wheel and the main instrument panel directly below it.

The fascia comprises of four main indicators - a large rev counter, flanked by the petrol gauge and motor assist gauge. The automatic gear selected is displayed within the rev counter. As on the Civic Hybrid the motor assist gauge shows, during driving, whether the electric battery is being charged e.g. during regenerative braking or whether the electric motor is assisting the petrol engine e.g. during hard acceleration.

A useful LCD multi-information display set within the centre of the rev counter provides information such as instant and average fuel economy, range, outside temperature as well as other displays to encourage more economical driving techniques. The information button on the steering wheel allows the driver to flick through the different information displays.

All instruments are located on or around the steering wheel, within easy reach for the driver.


ECON system

The green ECON button can be found on the dash, to the right of the steering wheel. When switched on the ECON system indicator appears in the top left of the instrument panel. The LCD display also indicates whether the system is active and serves as a coaching system by providing additional information to help the driver maximise economy.

Air conditioning

In automotive air conditioning units there is a cooling circuit involved that delivers a refrigerant to a condenser and evaporator thus delivering cool air to the cabin. This process involves a compressor and with it associated thermal, mechanical and pumping losses, which affect fuel consumption.

To improve the thermal efficiency of the air conditioning system on the new Insight, Honda engineers have expanded the usable thermodynamic range compared to conventional systems. Ingeniously, the piping layout is changed with the low pressure cold pipe enclosing the high pressure hot refrigerant pipe which has a scroll type groove on the, which means the cold refrigerant on its way back to the engine bay helps cool the warm refrigerant travelling to the cabin. The indentation on the outside of the inner pipe is in a spiral arrangement, which increases the surface area and therefore the efficiency of the heat transfer between the outer and inner tubes. This principle improves the thermal efficiency of the air-conditioning system and as a result, less effort is required from the compressor, resulting in improvements to fuel consumption.

Air conditioning in ‘Idle Stop' mode

When driving the Civic Hybrid, during ‘Idle Stop' mode the air conditioning could still be operated, thanks to an extra electric motor powered by the high-power battery pack. However, to save costs, this function has not been included on the Insight. Instead, to keep the occupants comfortable, the length of the idle stop time is limited. However, when ECON button is pressed, a longer idle stop time is set for improved efficiency.

Audio systems

All models are equipped with a single CD/audio system, four speakers, steering wheel mounted audio controls and auxiliary jack with MP3/WMA/AAC playback capability. In addition, some models are fitted with a USB port, located in the centre arm rest/storage box which enables fifth generation or later iPods (including Nanos), plus a variety of other digital audio players, to be played through the Insight's main audio system. MP3 players docked via the USB port can also be controlled using the steering wheel mounted audio controls and depending on type, will charge once connected.

Satellite Navigation

The voice-activated satellite navigation system is a touch-screen unit utilising a fully updateable DVD for all data. The Honda navigation features 11 text languages, including: English, German, Italian, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, Danish, Swedish, Norwegian and Suomi. Five of these, English, German, Italian, French and Spanish can be used for voice activation and spoken guidance instructions. The Insight's system allows the user to find a wide range of places of interest, including restaurants, petrol stations, airports and Honda service centres. The majority of points of interest include phone numbers where appropriate for added convenience. Where it is available, the Honda navigation system works with traffic information to alert customers to potential delays and navigate a route round them.

Hands-Free Telephone (HFT)

ES grades will also be equipped with Hands Free Telephone (HFT) kit, which uses Bluetooth technology to allow mobile phone calls to be made safely on the move.

A series of speakers and microphones installed in the car can connect to any Bluetooth-enabled communications device, even in a bag or briefcase.

The HFT system allows the driver to automatically transfer a call onto the HFT once the ignition has been turned to the ACC position. The user can also utilise the phone's keypad to make calls as well as storing up to 50 names with a speed-dial number. More importantly all numbers can be accessed by HFT.

Thanks to the satellite navigation, it is also possible to import the phone books of up to six separate mobiles via the Interface Dial, up to 1000 names with a potential of 10,000 numbers. Once imported, numbers are accessed by selecting ‘search imported phonebook' on the screen, followed by a keyword search or by listing all records.

Safety
Two ISOFIX fittings in both the right and left rear seats are provided together with tether anchor points provide secure child seat mounting points and ensure correct installation.

INSIGHT TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

INSIGHT TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

All data is in-house data and is subject to change upon homologation. All data refers to cars equipped with 15-inch wheels.

Images : New Honda Insight Hybrid

[Source : HONDA}
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BANGKOK : January 20, 2009 - Mercedes-Benz has claimed the top spot in Thailand’s luxury car segment for the 8th consecutive year. Sales figures for 2008 give Mercedes-Benz a luxury car market share of 52.7 percent with unit sales of 3,807 vehicles.


Despite the global economic recession together with other factors such as the fluctuation of fuel prices and the political situations in Thailand, Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) was satisfied with its total sales volume. Professor Dr. Alexander Paufler, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) said the 2008 figures for Mercedes-Benz were an achievement for the company and it was an exceptional effort in a difficult year. “The launch of 4 new models in 2008 i.e. the new C-Class, CLC-Class Sport Coupé, the new generation SL 350 and the new generation SLK 200 enabled us to provide more variety across customer segments and lifestyles. Moreover, Mercedes-Benz has continueously introduced new technologies and innovations which increased customer confidence in the brand and allowed us to maintain our leadership for the 8th consecutive year.” “We are delighted to hold the leadership position not only in the overall figures but also as the leader in each of our categories.” Professor Dr. Paufler said. Mercedes-Benz C-Class lead for the brand with 1,714 units sold, followed by the E-Class with sales of 1,512 units and S-Class with 467 units with market share of 58.1%, 59.2% and 72.1% consequently. The breakdown for Mercedes-Benz sales in 2008 were:

• C-Class 1,714 units were sold (58.1% of total segment sales)
  
• E-Class 1,512 units were sold (59.2% of total segment sales)
  
• S-Class 467 units were sold (72.1% of total segment sales)
  
• A/B/M/G/R-Class altogether 114 units

“In order to be responsive to the current economic crisis, we plan to implement more aggressive marketing strategies to reinforce our sales by firstly best selecting various models to cater to different customer’s needs. Moreover, we at Mercedes-Benz offer environmentally friendly vehicles,” added Professor Dr. Paufler.

“E 200 KOMPRESSOR NGT is a perfect alternative for whoever is looking for an environmentally friendly car as it is euipped with bivalent drive system that enables drivers to smoothly switch from petrol power to natural-gas mode at any time. It is very impressive to know that our sales for this model gained the highest market share accounting for 50 percent in the category.”

In 2009 we plan to offer customers more exciting vehicles such as E 220 CDI Classic, E 230 2.5 AV Sports Premium Edition and ML 280 CDI Sports new generation. In particular, the Mercedes-Benz flagship model, the S 500 L CKD (completely knock-down unit) started successfully from its launch last year and remained unchallenged market leader in Thailand with performance and safety perfectly combined with luxury and elegance, for which Mercedes-Benz is famed. Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) has won “Mercedes-Benz Quality Award CKD” from its Headquarters in Germany. The award was the guarantee of global quality of standard for Mercedes-Benz Assembly Plants which are located in 7 countries around the world i.e. India, Egypt, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, China and Thailand.

“At present, there are various Mercedes-Benz models being built in Mercedes-Benz Assembly Plant such as S-Class, E-Class and C-Class. All cars are produced with the same standard as in Germany which has proven the quality of Thai engineers and the high level industrial technology being used in Thailand.” Professor Dr. Paufler said.

In addition to the quality of product, Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) very much focuses on after sales service. The company has continuously developed service management systems for its authorized dealers nationwide which has resulted in higher scores on the Customer Satisfaction Index.

With the above competency and our brand mission in product development we are strongly confident of maintaining the leader position in luxury car segment in the coming year, Professor Dr. Paufler said.

[Source : Mercedes Benz - Thailand]
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COLOGNE/SAARLOUIS : January 20, 2009 – The first production example of the exciting new Ford Focus RS rolled off the production line today at Ford of Europe's Saarlouis plant in Germany.


The 305 PS (224 kW) / 440 Nm top of the range performance version of the Focus extends the flexible production mix at the Saarlouis Plant. The German facility already produces the Ford Focus range in 3- and 5-door hatchback, wagon and sporty ST bodystyles, plus the
C-MAX and Kuga models.

Saarlouis is one of Ford's seven vehicle assembly plants in Europe. More than eleven million vehicles have been produced there since its opening in 1970, including the Ford Escort, Fiesta and Capri.

The new Ford Focus RS will be available in more than 20 European countries including Russia, with the UK, Switzerland and Germany expected to be the highest volume markets.

The Saarlouis team will build into the car a number of unique exterior and interior design details including new body parts to incorporate wider wheel arches and a wider track, complemented by revised, deeper side rocker mouldings and unique front and rear bumpers.

At the rear a large venturi tunnel and a dramatic rear spoiler create a purposeful look. Such is the exclusivity of the new RS, that customers will have a choice of just three expressive exterior colours: Ultimate Green, Performance Blue and Frozen White.

"We are excited that a new RS-badged Ford performance model is back in our portfolio and that production at Saarlouis is starting on schedule," said John Fleming, Ford of Europe Chairman and CEO. "We've had a huge amount of interest in this model from the loyal army of Ford RS enthusiasts as well as potential customers who have never owned an RS before. I am confident that they will fall for it the moment they get behind the wheel."

[Source : FORD]
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• Total investment of around €70 million
  
• Construction to commence in 2009, production launch scheduled for the third quarter of 2010
  
• Consistent implementation of the Global Excellence Program
  
• Dr. Holger Steindorf, Head of Global Axle and Transmission Production for Trucks and Vans at Daimler AG: “The decision to construct a new stamping facility is an investment in the future of Mercedes-Benz as well as an expression of our commitment to the production location Gaggenau.”

STUTTGART : January 20, 2009 – The Daimler Board of Management decided that the company will invest in a new stamping facility for Mercedes-Benz.


The stamping facility for exterior panels for Mercedes-Benz trucks and the successor generations of Mercedes-Benz passenger cars A-class and B-class will be built in Kuppenheim and be part of the Mercedes-Benz plant in Gaggenau. The total investment in the stamping facility will amount to around €70 million. The most important factors that led to the selection of Kuppenheim were the site’s proximity to Gaggenau and to the plants in Wörth and Rastatt for which the panels are destined, as well as the good infrastructure and road connections in the Murgtal area and the outstanding qualifications of the skilled workers in the region.

The Gaggenau plant serves as the Group’s center of expertise for mechanical and automated manual transmissions and it consistently implements the company’s long-term transmission strategy. Due to the crowded situation at the Gaggenau plant and the lack of space into which it could expand, the forming technology unit will be relocated to the new stamping facility. The space freed up as a result of the move will then be available for the expansion of the powertrain manufacturing facility in Gaggenau.

Construction of the new stamping facility will commence on the 156,000 m2 plot of land in the first quarter of 2009. The building is scheduled to be completed in the third quarter of 2010, when test operations will be launched. Once the first stage of construction is completed, the new stamping facility will provide jobs for around 130 people, some of whom will be employees already working for Daimler. Today, employees engaged in forming technology work at a stamping and welding facility in Gaggenau, where they produce high-quality sheet metal body parts and components for the Mercedes-Benz car and truck assembly plants in Rastatt and Wörth.

“The decision to construct a new stamping facility is an investment in the future of Mercedes-Benz as well as a clear expression of our commitment to the production location in Gaggenau and to the Murgtal region,” said Dr. Holger Steindorf, Head of Global Axle and Transmission Production for Trucks and Vans at Daimler AG. “Ensuring the location’s economic success is a major priority for us, as it safeguards the jobs we offer in the region.”

“This is one of the most important industrial facilities in the region,” said Michael Brecht, Chairman of the Labor Council at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Gaggenau. “With this development the plant has taken a further step toward achieving its strategic goals. We would like to thank the managers and the stamping facility’s entire staff for working so hard to create the conditions for making this investment possible. I would also like to thank the mayors Mußler and Wein from Kuppenheim and Bischweier for their highly professional and farsighted support“.

The investment in the stamping facility is an example of how the company is consistently implementing Daimler Trucks’ Global Excellence program. Within the framework of the “Future Production Generations and Technologies" initiative, the division invests in pioneering projects and future model projects even during economic downturns in order to secure its medium and long-term competitiveness.

[Source : DAIMLER]
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