MELBOURNE : September 27, 2009 - The all-new Holden Cruze made its Australian debut at the Melbourne International Motor Show today signalling the company’s latest entrant in the competitive small car segment.

Cruze is the first of General Motors’ new wave of global products and enters Australia’s small car segment equipped with striking road presence, advanced interior comfort and high levels of safety features.

Powered by a 1.8 litre 4-cylinder ECOTEC petrol engine or optional 2.0 litre 4-cylinder turbocharged common rail diesel engine, Cruze will go on sale in the second quarter of 2009.

GM Holden Chairman and Managing Director, Mark Reuss said Cruze represented Holden’s commitment to the small car market and marked the beginning of a new era for the company.

“The small car market is the largest growing segment in the Australian market and this is our response to that change,” Reuss said.

“Cruze will play a significant role in Holden’s future and presents us with a new generation car, a new design and a new way of thinking.

“It is a world class small car that has the perfect blend of both style and substance, all from the base model to the top of the range.”

2009 HOLDEN CRUZE HIGHLIGHTS:

Drawing on GM best practices from around the world, Cruze was developed by a global design and engineering team.

Product line-up

The Cruze line-up will include CD and CDX models, both powered by a 1.8 litre 4 cylinder ECOTEC petrol engine with the choice of a five speed manual transmission or six speed automatic transmission with Active Select.

A 2.0 litre common rail turbocharged diesel engine will be available as an option on the CD model and will form part of the Holden EcoLine range.

The choice of powertrains ensures fuel efficiency and excellent performance all with the ride and handling ability of a true Holden to ensure it feels as good as it looks.

Exterior styling

With a wide track, long wheelbase and its wheels located at the outer edges of its body, the Holden Cruze sedan’s 'four-door coupe' styling delivers the presence of an upscale mid-size sedan.

State of the art manufacturing processes ensures gaps are minimised and margins in the exterior design deliver high levels of quality, fit and finish.

Cruze has been designed to appeal to drivers who value sophisticated design combined with sporty good looks.

Interior comfort

Inside, Cruze boasts one of the most advanced interiors of any small car on the market offering exceptional quality and functionality, while delivering sportiness and luxurious comfort.

Stylish and spacious, the Cruze interior offers exceptional fit and finish and comfort with contoured sport seats and a dual cockpit design which houses an advanced integrated centre panel with graphic information display and CD with MP3 “plug and play” functionality.

An integrated centre stack houses the infotainment display, radio and HVAC controls resulting in a fresh and contemporary look.

With generous rear passenger leg, head and shoulder room this small car comfortably sits five adults, and when combined with one of the largest range of standard features from the base model customers do not need to compromise on large car features.

Storage, functionality and convenience applications found on the new Cruze are plentiful with 60/40 split rear seats, seatback pockets, a centre console CD storage, a shopping bag hook and six cup holders.

Safety

Safety was an overriding objective in the development of Cruze. Significant advancements in structural strength and a full offering of active and passive safety systems should combine to make the all-new Holden Cruze among the safest in its class.

The Cruze’s stiff structure helps to minimise noise and vibration as well as assuring a good crash safety performance and optimal ride and handling properties.

With an impressive level of standard safety features across the range including:

• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Traction Control (TC)
• Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)
• Brake Assist (BA)
• Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Six airbags including driver, front passenger, front side and curtain airbags
• Seatbelt retractor and lap pretensioners with seatbelt load limiters
• Sixty-five percent of the structure is high-strength steel

Holden Cruze CD Feature Highlights:

• 1.8 litre 4-cylinder ECOTEC petrol engine or optional 2.0 litre 4-cylinder turbocharged common rail diesel engine
• 5-speed manual transmission or optional 6-speed automatic transmission with Active Select
• 16 inch steel wheels
• Body coloured door handles and mirrors
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC) incorporating:
• • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
  • Traction Control (TC)
  • Brake Assist (BA)
  • Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• 6 airbags including:
• • Front airbags for driver and front passenger
  • Front side impact airbags
  • Side curtain airbags
• Automatic headlamps
• 6 speaker audio system with MP3 compatible in dash CD, radio and MP3 “plug & play” functionality with graphic information display
• Air conditioning
• Steering wheel audio controls
• Cruise control
• Trip computer
• Power windows, front and rear

Holden Cruze CDX - includes all CD specific feature highlights, plus:

• 1.8 litre 4-cylinder ECOTEC petrol engine
• 5-speed manual transmission or optional 6-speed automatic transmission with Active Select
• 17 inch alloy wheels (4)
• Front fog lamps
• Leather steering wheel
• Leather appointed seats
• Heated front seats
• Rear park assist

Full specifications, fuel economy figures and pricing will be released closer to launch.

[Source : HOLDEN]
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“Vincero! Vincero! – I will win“, that is the self-confident exclamation from Nessun Dorma, probably the most famous tenor aria from Giacomo Puccinis opera Turandot. And Vincero is also the name of the latest automobile accessory line by refining specialist Mansory. Mansory already finds many parallels for the new name: The plot of the aria stems from a Persian tale of 1001 days which also relates to the standard motorisation of the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 with 1,001 hp. On the other hand, it should also refer to the origin of Kourosh Mansory, the founder and CEO of Mansory Corporation. And the opera has another reference to the offered product portfolio by ending after three acts. The LINEA Vincero edition is also not infinite – the project is strictly limited.



It goes without saying that such a sonorous name is only suitable for an absolutely high-quality programme. Already the Bugatti Veyron serial edition sets standards in terms of price, maximum speed and engine power and leaves its competitors far behind when a contender for the super sports car is to be crowned. Whoever now thinks that everything possible has been achieved, can be proved wrong. Already visually, the changes clearly show. The front part gets a comprehensive face-lift including modified wings, a shorter hood and a striking front apron. The LED daytime running lights integrated in the front mount and the implemented stylised “V” as a special tribute to the name “Vincero” draw even more attention to the car.


The newly developed side skirts are the visual and aerodynamic connection between the axles. Larger air outlets at the sides and at the back render optimal engine cooling and in combination with the new diffuser, they underline the powerful car design. Mansory manufactures nearly all auto body parts from ultra-light and high-strength carbon.

The applied hardening technique with strong pressure and high temperatures in the autoclave thereby enormously improve the material quality.

In order to perfect the entire visual appearance, Mansory devised new, striking fully-forged turbine-design wheels for the Linea Vincero in serial dimensions.

Also, the power engine is refined by Mansory. Technical innovation is combined with technical expertise and thereby, an increased cooling air supply and optimised exhaust system produce an unbelievable 1109 hp and 1310 Nm.

The interior is exclusive and yet functional. Also here, Mansory understands how luxury and technology can be harmonically combined. When traditional craftsmanship, selected materials and stylish design merge, the result is an interior of automobile excellence.


This mainly shows by the LED lights of the new Ambiente-Illumination-System which are fitted in the seats, door linings and the dashboard. The entire passenger compartment glows in a soft light which does not only render a comfortable feeling, but also emphasises the high-quality carbon applications and the especially grained leather. The ergonomically designed airbag steering wheel is both sportive and particularly pliable and is equipped with rocker switches.

The Mansory individualisation programme for the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 is offered in a limited edition via the Middle East partner “Prestige Cars Abu Dhabi”.

[Source : MANSORY]
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HKS has established the new HKS CZ200S Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X as the successor to the outgoing HKS CT230R Circuit Time Attack Evo as its latest time attack vehicle. The CZ200S will be the basis where HKS will develop its complete parts line-up for the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X.



The CZ200S will be the basis in which HKS will develop its complete parts line-up for the Lancer Evolution X. Much like the development of products available for the previous generations of the Lancer Evolutions, the CZ200S utilizes currently available off-the-shelf and prototype HKS products. HKS prides itself in its engineering, motorsports development and manufacturing quality assuring customers that the same products that HKS sets records with are the same off-the-shelf products that a customer can expect from HKS.


Working in conjunction with the Yokohama Tire Company, HKS plans on lap times under 1 minute at the famed Tsukuba Circuit. During initial testing of the new Advan Neova AD08 radial tires, the CZ200S posted a best lap time of 59.495 seconds at Tsukuba Circuit.



[Source : HKS]
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MELBOURNE : February 27, 2009 - Toyota has unveiled two new locally developed show cars at the 2009 Melbourne Motor Show which feature cutting-edge customisation ideas from the booming modified street car scene.



The highly modified Yaris and RAV4 are the result of collaboration with Australia’s leading promoter of street car shows and events, Auto Salon.

“Basically, Toyota gave us the cars and told us to go crazy,” said project leader William Ng.

“It’s getting increasingly difficult to do something original within the show car scene but, because the Yaris and RAV4 are not common subjects for modification, the Toyota project gave us an opportunity to do something different.”


The Auto Salon Yaris is distinguished by a camouflage paint-scheme and modified “double-wide” bodywork featuring guards which have been heavily flared to house over-sized 17-inch raised titanium lip wheels and 245/40 Michelin Pilot Preceda tyres.

The Yaris’s suspension has been modified with the addition of Buddy Club coil-over suspension adjustable for ride and rebound.

The interior of the Yaris has been enhanced with the addition of race-style TRD Recaro driver and front passenger seats, and a TRD instrument gauge cluster mounted on the steering column. The standard stereo has been replaced by an enormously powerful Fujitsu Eclipse sound system featuring four amplifiers and six sub-woofers.

An unusual feature of the system is that the entire boot-mounted stereo sub-woofer assembly can be unbolted and removed. “Removing the sub-woofer lowers the kerb weight of the vehicle in order to enhance track-day performance,” said William Ng.


The Auto Salon RAV4 is a show standout thanks to its bright red pearlescent custom paint job and massive 22-inch wheels and tyres.A custom-built airbag suspension allows the RAV4 to be lowered on its wheels by up to 25 centimetres for display purposes and then raised again for driving.


The custom look is completed by new front and rear bumper panels, deep side skirts and “shaved” external door handles - meaning they have been removed entirely and replaced by a remote control door opener.

[Source : TOYOTA via Japanese Sport Car]
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MARANELLO : February 27, 2009 – The 79th Geneva International Motor Show provides the venue for Ferrari to announce two new pieces of good news: the arrival of the sporty, dynamic Handling GT Evoluzione (HGTE) Package for the 599 GTB Fiorano and the world debut of the 599XX which is a technological laboratory aimed at a select group of clients. The latter new car incorporates the most advanced technologies resulting from Ferrari's road-going and F1 research. Many of the technological solutions it carries are being used for the first time and have been developed exclusively for this special car.


The two new arrivals will be introduced to the international media by Ferrari Chairman Luca di Montezemolo on the opening day of the Show, March 3rd, at 10 am.

In addition to the 599 GTB Fiorano equipped with the Handling GTE package and finished in a new three-layer metallic Rosso, and the 599XX in a colour matching the F2008, Ferrari clients and enthusiasts will also be able to admire this single-seater that recently won the Prancing Horse its 16th Constructors' World title. On the stand there will also be the full range of Ferrari road cars: the Scuderia Spider 16M in a Grigio Titanio livery, the 430 Scuderia in Rosso Corsa and two Grand Tourer models, the Ferrari California in Nero Metallizzato with a Sabbia interior and the flagship 612 Scaglietti. The latter will be displayed in the Atelier, a dedicated area where owners can get a taste of the virtually endless personalisation options on offer to them.


[Source : FERRARI]
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MLADA BOLSLAV, Czech Republic : February 27, 2009 - Skoda introduces the Fabia Sportline, new generation of sportline design elements, offered with 17" alloy wheels, projector headlight, lowering chassis, sport seats, leather steering wheel cover and stainless steel pedals.


The new Fabia Sportline featured with 1.4 litre 63 kW to 1.6 litre 77 kW petrol engine and 1.4 litre TDI 56 kW to 1.9 litre TDI 77 kW diesel engine with 5-speed manaul transmission, the top model equipped with 6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission.

Model Fabia Sportline in the Czech Republic can be ordered from 1 March 2009 at all authorized dealers of Skoda. Price base model Fabia Sportline engine 1.4 16V/63kW and five-speed manual transmission is €11,800.







[Source : SKODA]
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TOKYO : February 26, 2009 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC), in cooperation with its Hong Kong distributor Universal Cars Ltd., today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Environment Bureau of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China regarding local evaluation of the zero-emissions i MiEV electric vehicle.


As an investigative step toward possible future introduction of the electric vehicle, the proposed project would begin as early as May 2009 and would examine issues including market acceptability, as well as incentives and structural issues such as the suitability of the charging infrastructure.

Announced in October 2006, the i MiEV represents the pinnacle of Mitsubishi Motors' green technologies. Currently involved in testing and promotional activities in Japan, New Zealand, the United States and across Europe, the i MiEV will be launched in Japan during the summer of 2009.

[Source : MITSUBISHI]
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TOKYO : February 27, 2009 - Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. and Nissan Motorsports International Co., Ltd. (NISMO) today announced their global motorsport programme for 2009.


For 2009, Nissan continues to participate in the SUPER GT series, GT500 class, which is the highest level in Japanese domestic motorsports, with the Nissan GT-R. Nissan will also support grassroots activities in select countries outside of Japan to help nurture the motorsports culture, which has millions of fans throughout the world.

"Motorsports is an important part of Nissan's strategy for building a strong brand with consumers who share our passion for high-performance driving," said Carlos Tavares, Executive Vice President, Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. "In addition to being an important touch-point for consumers, motorsports serve as a dynamic proving ground for automotive innovation."

1. SUPER GT

Vehicles

• The R35 model Nissan GT-R will be entered in the GT500 class of SUPER GT.
  
• This year's entries will incorporate changes that include an improved air-cooling system and a paddle-shift transmission. The vehicles also conform to the racing body's latest regulation changes to decrease down force through shortened vehicle overhang. NISMO provides technical assistance and vehicle development to all participating teams.

Team Composition

• This year's line-up of NISMO, HASEMI MOTORSPORT, TEAM IMPUL and KONDO RACING will deploy 1 car each for a total of 4 Nissan GT-Rs that will race in the GT500 class series. Kunihiko Kakimoto remains as general manager in charge of Nissan related teams with the NISMO team managed by Yutaka Suzuki. HASEMI MOTOR SPORT team welcomes to its roster Hironobu Yasuda, who trained in the rigorous Nissan Driver Development Program (NDDP).

2. Private racers category

March Cup series

• Providing amateur racers a chance to experience the thrill of auto racing, Nissan holds the March Cup races (East Japan Series, West Japan Series, Nissan March Championship Cup). This pits private racers with actual racing conditions, with each car equipped with a data logger and GPS to record the racing lines taken by drivers. As previously announced, 2009 is the final run for the March Cup series.

Japanese domestic private teams

• SUPER GT GT300 class - Technical assistance will be given to private teams competing in Fairlady Zs.
  
• Super Taikyu series - Technical assistance will be given to private teams competing in Fairlady Zs in both ST1 and ST3 classes.

Global Race activities

• China - Aiming for a 3rd championship win, Nissan and NISMO will provide technical assistance to its China partner Dongfeng Motor Co., Ltd., which enters its Nissan Tiidas in the 1600cc Class of the China Circuit Championship (CCC). The event is the country's premier domestic racing event, where locally manufactured production-based race cars compete. Nissan Tiida won the title in 2006 and 2008.
  
• South Africa - With 8 consecutive Driver's championship wins, Nissan seeks to retain its title in the South Africa Off-Road Championship. Dominating the event will be the Nissan Navara, well known for its controlled performance and rugged reliability.
  
• Europe - To check the performance of cars to be sold to racing teams competing in the FIA-GT1 class, a NISMO-developed car will run as a non-championship entry in 4 races in 2009, entered in a team partnership with Gigawave MotorSport. It is expected that the car is to be driven by Michael Krumm (NISMO) and Darren Turner (Gigawave).
• 
  
• Gigawave MotorSport, a racing team based in county Essex, England, has been competing in the FIA GT Championship since 2007. The team's parent company Gigawave Ltd., as an official partner of the FIA GT Championship, provides on-board cameras for real-time coverage of the races.

[Source : NISSAN]
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• The 2009 Boca Raton (Fla.) Concours d' Elegance auctioned the first U.S.-bound Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro with a V10 engine that generates 525 horsepower
  
• Amid strong bids for the first R8 V10, Audi agreed to auction the second U.S. R8 V10
  
• The auction raised more than $1 million for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County

HERNDON, Va. : February 26, 2009 - Charity auctions typically offer high-value items to spur bidding that benefits a worthy cause. But what unfolded at the 3rd annual Boca Raton Concours d' Elegance auction really stood out.


The Florida gala to raise money for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County featured the opportunity to own the first 2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro delivered to the U.S. The newest addition to the highly acclaimed Audi R8 lineup is equipped with a ten-cylinder engine that generates 525 horsepower and achieves a 0-62.14 mph time of 3.9 seconds. The new R8 V10 also offers advanced technologies, such as a lightweight aluminum Audi Space Frame and quattro all-wheel drive, found in the eight-cylinder Audi R8 sports car that claimed several worldwide awards in 2008, including World Performance Car and World Design Car of the Year.

"The live and silent auctions at the Gala always feature amazing items," said James E. McDonnell IV, Chairman of the Boca Raton Concours d' Elegance Event. "But this year we have truly topped the charts. In fact, the auction lineup has made a mark in history by offering one of the most sought after vehicles in the country to guests."

The 2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro isn't expected to arrive in the U.S. until about the fourth quarter of 2009. The Gala auction, held Feb 21 at the Boca Raton Resort & Club, also featured the chance to buy one of the first 2010 Ferrari California sports cars available in the U.S. But none of that dampened interest in the new Audi R8 V10.

After bids for the Ferrari topped out at $350,000, interest in the Audi R8 V10 drove its final price to $500,000 -- a record for any new-production Audi model. In 2007, an Audi R8 sold in a sealed-bid Bergdorf Goodman auction for $425,000.

To raise more money for the Boys & Girls Clubs, the winning bidder at the Boca Raton auction offered to give his rights to the first R8 V10 if Audi would give him the second model available in the U.S. Audi agreed and the two R8 V10 models sold for $850,000 combined. One night, two Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro sports cars, $850,000 in bids to help an organization that helps children find positive influences in life. Overall, the Boca Raton Gala raised more than $1 million in net proceeds for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County.

[Source ; AUDI]
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• World premiere of all-new Toyota Verso
  
• European premiere of new third-generation Toyota Prius – fuel economy improved to 72.4mpg, CO₂ emissions reduced to 89g/km
  
• New iQ with 1.33 Dual VVT-i engine with Stop & Start
  
• Spotlight on Toyota environmental leadership

World premiere of new Toyota Verso
Toyota will unveil its all-new Verso at the Geneva motor show, a no-compromise MPV that offers more space, comfort and practicality, and benefits from the latest occupant and pedestrian safety features. Ride quality, acoustic comfort and dynamic abilities match those of conventional passenger cars.


The interior features an improved Toyota Easy Flat-7 system for quick and convenient folding of the five individual rear seats. Special attention has been paid to increasing comfort for rear passengers with improved second and third row accommodation.


Introducing Toyota Optimal Drive throughout the Verso range has returned increases in engine power of up to 20 per cent, while fuel economy and CO₂ emissions show improvements of up to 12 per cent, compared to the current model.

In the UK Verso will be launched in the spring with new 1.6 and 1.8 Valvematic petrol engines which will have a class-leading combination of power and CO₂ emissions. These will be offered with a new six-speed manual transmission as standard, with the option of Toyota’s new Multidrive S continuously variable transmission on the 1.8 unit. A revised version of the 2.0-litre D-4D diesel will also be available, with a 2.2 D-CAT 150 engine with new six-speed automatic transmission due to join the line-up later in the year.

New Verso has a class-leading drag coefficient of Cd 0.295, a longer wheelbase, wider front and rear tracks and extensively revised suspension geometry, all of which combines in better driving dynamics, handling, body control, stability and ride comfort.

Active, passive and pedestrian impact safety features are all upgraded and the new highly rigid body shell incorporates a larger percentage of high tensile steel. The standard equipment list will include curtain shield airbags that extend protection to the third row passengers, and intelligent steering assist Vehicle Stability Control (VSC+).

New Verso is designed to follow the example set by new Avensis and iQ in achieving a maximum five-star rating in the more stringent Euro NCAP crash test programme.


European Premiere of New Toyota Prius
The world’s most advanced mainstream passenger car, Prius stands as a motor industry milestone in vehicle powertrain development. Successive generations of the model have showcased Toyota’s commitment to environmentally conscientious forward-thinking and have led the company’s advance towards the creation of the ultimate eco-car.

The new, third-generation Prius remains the undisputed reference point for mass-mobility hybrid technology, setting new standards in innovation, design and driving enjoyment. Ninety per cent of the components in the award-winning Hybrid Synergy Drive system have been redesigned, making it lighter and more compact, increasing power and reducing real-world fuel consumption. Operation in cold weather has also been improved.

Overall system power has been increased by 22 per cent, while fuel economy improved by 10 per cent and CO₂ emissions reduced to just 89g/km.

Prius’s striking new design is inspired by Toyota’s ECO-ICON concept with an aerodynamically efficient exterior that has an exceptionally low drag coefficient, Cd 0.25. The interior has an innovative dual-dashboard design, housing a series of driver assistance features that are unique in Prius’s class. These include a head-up display, a steering-wheel mounted Touch Tracer control to monitor and operate a range of equipment functions, a solar-powered ventilation system to keep the car cool when parked, and a new version of Toyota’s Intelligent Parking System.

New Prius will go on sale in the UK in July 2009.


New iQ 1.33
Toyota’s revolutionary iQ, the world’s smallest four-seat passenger car, will adopt Toyota’s 99bhp (100 DIN hp) 1.33-litre Dual VVT-i engine from July.

Benefiting from Toyota Optimal Drive technology and equipped with the economy-boosting Stop & Start system, the new engine will give iQ combined cycle fuel consumption of 58.9mpg and CO₂ emissions of 113g/km, using the standard six-speed manual transmission. Toyota’s seamless Multidrive transmission will also be available, giving 55.4mpg and 120g/km (mpg and CO₂ figures provisional, subject to final homologation).

In spite of its compact dimensions, iQ has been designed to offer the highest levels of occupant protection and is fitted as standard with a comprehensive range of active and passive safety equipment and pedestrian impact protection. The performance of these and the effectiveness of the iQ’s multi-load path body structure have been proven in independent Euro NCAP crash testing, earning the car a top five-star safety rating.

Toyota Environmental Leadership
Toyota is taking an environmental lead through its simultaneous development of new technologies: Toyota Optimal Drive and Hybrid Synergy Drive.

Toyota Optimal Drive combines wide-ranging, advanced technologies that focus on reducing engine weight, reducing unnecessary mechanical losses, and maximising combustion efficiency. Together these technologies deliver the best possible balance of performance and driving pleasure with fuel economy and low emissions.

Hybrid Synergy Drive is a core technology that is due to become more widely available in the Toyota product range. It provides full series/parallel hybrid drive capability, with its ability to operate in both petrol and electric modes alone, as well as in a combination of both. It gives the energy-saving, zero emissions, ultra-quiet electric motor-only benefits of a series hybrid, combined with the enhanced performance benefits of a parallel hybrid.

The next-generation Prius features a revised Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain, which gives lower fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions with increased power.

Future Developments
The Hybrid Synergy Drive platform has proved itself adaptable for the development of both a Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle (PHV) and a Hydrogen Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicle (FCHV). Toyota’s PHV functions as an electric vehicle on short trips and as a conventional hybrid over longer distances. Increased battery capacity allows for a greater electric-only cruising range, while the battery can be recharged from a domestic electric supply in less than two hours.

The Toyota FCHV was the world’s first production fuel cell vehicle, introduced in 2002, fitted with a fuel stack in place of the petrol engine in the hybrid drive system. Toyota’s next-generation fuel cell hybrid, FCHV-adv, achieves a 25 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency. Furthermore, equipping the vehicle with Toyota-developed high-pressure hydrogen tanks makes it possible to travel approximately 515 miles on a single fuelling – performance that more than doubles that of its predecessor.

[Source : NEWSPRESS]
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MARTORELL : February 26, 2009 - Just one short year ago SEAT was blazing a colour-coded trail through the UK’s drab street scenes with its phenomenally successful Leon Cupra K1 – one of the trend-setting cars of the last 12 months and especially striking in what has quickly become its trademark hue, Candy White.


Spaniards are once again leading the way on car colours. This time, it’s the turn of the new special edition Ibiza Black to turn heads.


Based on the already elegant Ibiza 5dr 1.4 Sport the limited edition newcomer – in showrooms now and strictly limited to just 150 examples nationwide – adds a raft of smart extras to the standard supermini’s chic shape.

The extensive styling extras include unique front and rear bumpers, side skirts, striking tailgate roof spoiler and arch-filling 17” alloys. There are also dark tinted rear windows and, of course, that eye-catching paint job: Black Magic metallic, to be precise.

Add discrete but effective tailgate badging and the car’s smart credentials are clear for all to see.

Priced at £12,345 RRP, the limited edition Ibiza Black of course sports the same top notch quality, practicality, safety and equipment as the standard Ibiza 5dr Sport – meaning a class-leading package of value, as well as style.

Air conditioning, sports seats, electric windows all round, six-speaker radio/MP3-compatible CD with steering column-mounted remote controls and Aux-in socket, leather steering wheel and gearknob, body-coloured heated and electrically adjustable door mirrors, trip computer and integrated front fog lights with cornering function: these are just a selection of the Ibiza Black’s standard fit kit.

Driver and front passenger airbags plus head-thorax front side airbags, front passenger airbag disconnection, seatbelt reminder chimes, rear seat ISOFIX child seat points with Top Tether anchoring and remote central locking keep the SEAT and its occupants safe and secure.

The limited edition offering has the ‘go’ to match its ‘show’ courtesy of a free-revving 1.4-litre 85 PS petrol engine mated to a smooth and precise five-speed manual gearbox. A top speed of 108 mph and 0-62 mph time of 12.2 seconds sits alongside combined CO₂ emissions of just 149 g/km and impressive combined fuel economy of 45.6 mpg.

Combine that with a particularly low insurance group – 3E – and it’s easy to see why SEAT is confident the Ibiza Black will appeal to the head, as much as the heart, of today’s cost-conscious new car buyers.

Andy McGregor, SEAT UK’s Ibiza Product Manager, said of the high fashion newcomer: ‘Building on the great lines of the existing Ibiza 5dr with the addition of a sporty body kit and larger alloy wheels has allowed us to create a very impressive offering.

‘The obvious appeal, particularly for younger buyers who want to keep a lid on insurance costs but don’t want to sacrifice style, means I expect the Ibiza Black won’t be around in showrooms for long!’

[Source : SEAT]
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KEMPTEN : February 26, 2009 - ABT Sportsline has achieved plenty of success with the AS5, which is based on Audi’s A5 – as the coupe has a dynamic and elegant design, is full of technical power and also quick. All this makes it a "real” ABT. Now the company from Kempten has brought out the jewel in this range - the AS5-R. This vehicle is an ab(t)solute super sports car, nothing more and nothing less. Thanks to ABT POWER R, i.e. the change to the engine management and the insertion of an ABT Compressor, the performance is increased by an impressive 156 HP (115kW) to a powerful 510 HP (375kW). The AS5-R reaches 100km/h in 4.5 seconds and continues on powerfully up to its maximum speed of 292km/h. In spite of this enormous increase in performance, consumption and thereby emissions still remain at the level of the series-produced vehicle. CO₂ emissions per HP thereby fall from 0.81 to 0.56g/km.



As is normal with ABT, all the components are perfectly adjusted to the enormous power of a top sports car. The ABT braking system with 380 millimetre disc diameter provides maximum deceleration even in extreme circumstances, and the ABT Coil-over suspension system also helps to bring the potential power onto the road. Motor sport professional Christian Abt has perfectionised the interaction of power with his know-how. The result is a top-class driving machine, which is also enjoyable in everyday use and is pleasant to drive on long journeys. The ABT AS5-R is therefore a maximum of a car – and a statement which shows the high level at which the engineers from Allgaeu work.


Its "suit” fits, of course, like a glove: The front spoiler accentuates the ABT grill and the striking section around the fog lights, inner fender skirt and the gill-shaped air inlets provide contours to the side of the ABT AS5-R. They have also succeeded on the side which most drivers only rarely get to see: The rear with the ABT rear skirt and 4-pipe rear muffler shows that this model athlete on wheels is more than “just” a car. The designers of ABT recommend the 20 inch BR alloys as the perfect accessory. Wheel-tyre combinations with height performance tyres are, of course, also available. Only with these accessories can the fast AS5-R safely unleash its power. And it has lots of that.

[Source : ABT]
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WOLFSBURG : February 26, 2009 - In its second full season Volkswagen complements its young Formula 3 commitment by another valuable element.


In addition to contesting the Euro Series and the German ATS Cup, the two-litre engine from Wolfsburg in 2009 will enter its first season in the high-calibre British Formula 3 Championship. Teams Carlin Motorsport with four – and T-Sport with two – drivers trust Volkswagen Power in the UK. Having clinched victories in the Euro Series and the German Cup, as well as the "vice”-championship in the Euro Series with Italian driver Edoardo Mortara, the 210-hp powerplant proved its competitiveness as early as in its first full season.

"With Carlin Motorsport and T-Sport we’ve secured two promising teams in the UK,” said Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen. "Our strategy of systematically and carefully extending our commitment now includes the British Formula 3 Championship, which is ultra-competitive and has been enjoying a high reputation in Europe for decades.”

Carlin Motorsport and T-Sport: candidates for victory and the title from the UK

Team Carlin Motorsport from Aldershot in the county of Hampshire won the Formula 3 Championship in the UK in 2001, 2003, 2005 and 2008. Team Principal Trevor Carlin is entering four Dallara F309-Volkswagen cars in the new season. The Carlin driver line-up: 19-year-old Australian Daniel Ricciardo from Perth, who is part of the Red Bull Junior Team, won the western European Formula Renault last year and finished the Formula Renault Euro Cup as the runner-up. The Briton Max Chilton from Reigate in the county of Surrey is contesting his second full Formula 3 season and – at age 17 – is one of the youngest drivers in the field. His 21-year-old compatriot and team-mate Henry Arundel, a British aristocrat, has one year of Formula 3 experience as well. Oliver Oakes from Norwich, also aged 21, brings his experience as the 2005 FIA Karting World Champion to the team.

Team T-Sport, based in Brackley in Northamptonshire, clinched four victories in the 2008 British Formula 3 season – an achievement Team Principal Russell Eacott wants to build on this season with two drivers and the Volkswagen engines. His driver line-up: 20-year-old Brazilian Adriano Buzaid from São Paulo, who finished last year’s British Formula Renault Championship in third place, is stepping up to Formula 3. His 18-year-old team-mate Wayne Boyd from Ulster in Northern Ireland won the 2008 British Formula Ford.

Successful history: five title wins in the 1980s with Volkswagen Power

For Volkswagen, the extension of its Formula 3 commitment marks the continuation of a glorious past. Between 1984 and 1989 five racers – Johnny Dumfries in 1984, Maurício Gugelmin in 1985, Andy Wallace in 1986, Johnny Herbert in 1987 and David Brabham in 1989 – won the British Formula 3 Championship with Volkswagen engines and thus contributed to the impressive overall tally of 92 victories in the first phase of the brand’s Formula 3 commitment.

Since the end of 2007, Volkswagen has again been committed to Formula 3, and last year clinched 13 podium places, three wins and the vice-champion’s title in the Formula 3 Euro Series; in the same period two further victories in the German ATS Formula 3 Cup went to Volkswagen’s partner team Van Amersfoort Racing.

[Source : VOLKSWAGEN]
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MATTIGHOFEN, Austria : February 26, 2009 : KTM is giving professional teams and individual racing drivers the opportunity to attend a full-day track test session with its championship-winning X-BOW GT4 race car, ahead of the 2009 motorsport season.


The event will be held at Circuit Paul Ricard (Le Castellet, France) on 17 – 18 March 2009. Guests will be given an introduction to KTM’s motorsport and factory support programmes, before a drivers’ briefing and extensive vehicle test session.

The KTM X-BOW GT4, which is eligible for entry in a variety of GT championships across Europe, is designed exclusively for use on track. The Dallara-designed carbon fibre monocoque delivers both light weight and high chassis rigidity – for excellent handling and safety – which, combined with class-leading aerodynamics thanks to the racing underbody with diffusor, enables the car to achieve 1.8g lateral acceleration on semi-slick tyres.

In its inaugural season in the 2008 GT4 European Cup, the KTM X-BOW swept to a 1-2-3 finish in the ‘Sports Light’ championship at the hands of German-based Reiter Engineering. The fantastic result and comparatively low running costs for the car throughout the season reinforce the manufacturer’s ‘Ready to Race’ ethos.

The cost to attend each track test session is €990 (exclusive of tax, travel and accommodation), which is refundable on purchase of a car.



[Source : KTM]
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STUTTGART : February 26, 2009 - The successful Porsche RS Spyder customer project heads into the next phase. Two teams will again field a Porsche RS Spyder each at the Le Mans 24 hour race (13-14 June). The NAVI Team Goh from Japan and the Essex squad from Denmark are eager to repeat the double victory of the RS Spyder in the LMP2 class last year. Porsche works drivers Sascha Maassen (Germany) and Emmanuel Collard (France) support the teams in their campaign.



Maassen (39), who already piloted a RS Sypder last year in Le Mans, will contest the event for the NAVI Team Goh. His team mates are the experienced Seiji Ara (Japan) and youngster Keisuke Kunimoto (Japan). Ara (34) won the overall classification in Le Mans back in 2004 with the Goh team, whilst the 20-year-old Formula 3 pilot, Kunimoto, contests the endurance classic at La Sarthe for the first time this year. The team’s Porsche RS Spyder is the winning car from last year that the Japanese outfit obtained from Van Merksteijn Motorsport. With the regulations requiring a substantial downsizing of the air-restrictors, the 3.4-litre V8 engine now delivers 440 hp instead of 476. Moreover, the rear wing and the underbody have been modified to conform to the regulation changes. Michelin is the team’s tyre partner.

Emmanuel Collard (37) joins up with Casper Elgaard (Denmark, 30) and Kristian Poulsen (Denmark, 33) to drive for the Essex team. The squad, who secured second place in the LMP2 classification of the 24 hour event in 2008, will race Michelin tyres for the first time. Both squads will conduct tests at the second round of the Le Mans Series in Spa on 10 May.

“I’m very pleased that, with Goh and Essex, we have two highly professional customer teams contesting Le Mans with a Porsche RS Spyder,” says Porsche’s Head of Motorsport, Hartmut Kristen. “Setting the quickest lap times of all LMP2 cars last year, the vehicle underlined its reliability and had the best efficiency of all participating sports prototypes. We have modified the cars to comply with the new technical regulations and I’m sure that both RS Spyder will again be very competitive in the LMP2 class.”

[Source : PORSCHE]
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GOTHENBURG : February 27, 2009 - Volvo Cars has announced first details of the new Volvo S80 executive saloon which will be available in the UK this summer. The changes give the car a more distinctive, dynamic design and striking face, while the interior offers enhanced luxury and comfort.


The new Volvo S80 will also feature three new diesel engines, the 2.4D, D5 and the low CO2-emitting DRIVe. As well as providing the Volvo S80 with a different driving experience, the car will also benefit from lower fuel consumption and fewer emissions. The Volvo S80 will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show on 3 March 2009.

"The new S80 should not just be seen, it has to be experienced. The atmosphere inside is both more comfortable and luxurious. We've also made the interior more driver-oriented, with a new steering wheel and upgraded instruments," says Volvo Cars President and CEO Stephen Odell.

Detail and quality

Steve Mattin, Volvo Cars design director, and his team have increased the exterior's appeal with a number of modifications that give the S80 a lower, longer and wider stance.

The front is more distinctive with a new grille featuring the larger iron mark badge, which is part of the more extrovert DNA as seen in recent Volvo models, including the new XC60 crossover. There is also new chrome detailing on the air intakes, lower part of the doors and under the tail lamps.

The interior of the car has a clear focus on exclusivity and comfort. The soft, cosseting leather seats with matching stitching are accompanied by door panels echoing the same trim. The super-slim floating centre stack is upgraded with a Silk Metal frame that enhances its exclusive feel, while simultaneously creating a design link to the Volvo XC60.

The instruments in the new Volvo S80 feature exclusive aluminium dials and Volvo is also launching a new generation of steering wheel. The décor trim with Silk Matte metal-effect finish on the four-spoke steering wheel is also found in the gear selector and around the starter button.

New diesel engines


The new S80 will also offer a completely different driving experience due to the introduction of three diesel engines. The twin-turbo five-cylinder 2.4-litre D5 turbodiesel offers 205 horsepower, 420Nm of torque over a very wide range of engine revs. Fuel consumption (EU combined) is 45.6mpg and 164g/km CO2 emissions (preliminary figures) – a particularly low figure for a car of this size and performance level.

The upgraded Euro 4-compliant 2.4-litre diesel engine will also be available with 175 horsepower, 420Nm of torque, fuel consumption (EU Combined) at 48.7mpg and CO2 emissions of 154g/km (preliminary figures).

The Volvo S80 DRIVe model will come equipped with the same powertrain – 1.6-litre diesel engine and manual gearbox – as the smaller C30, S40 and V50 but with specially tailored engine software and different ratios in third, fourth and fifth gears. The optimised powertrain is a major aid in helping the Volvo S80 significantly cut fuel consumption and CO2 emissions to 129g/km and 57.6mpg respectively (preliminary figures).

Volvo believes the Volvo S80 is in a segment that is dominated by customers with very firm expectations on exclusiveness, driving properties and brand image.

"Customers in this segment are often very brand-loyal. In order to appear on the radar of customers currently driving competitor cars, we have to offer something that is extra. We do this by offering exclusiveness and comfort of the absolute top level. In combination with world-leading safety, this makes the new S80 very hard to beat," commented Stephen Odell.





[Source : VOLVO]
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TOKYO : February 26, 2009 - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced that the company has signed an “Agreement concerning regulations and standards for establishing R&D facilities in Kazusa Akademia Park*” with Chiba prefecture and Investment Promotion Association of Kazusa Akademia Park (chaired by Governor Akiko Domoto of Chiba prefecture) based on its decision to build a new research facility that will enable Honda to work toward the establishment and practical application of bio-ethanol production technology from non-edible cellulosic material such as the stems and leaves of plants.


The new Kazusa-branch facility of Honda R&D Co., Ltd. Fundamental Technology Research Center, will be built within the Kazusa Akademia Park (in Kisarazu, Chiba). Honda plans to build a single 1,050m² building (approximate gross floor space) as a testing facility on the 5,000m2 lot. The construction is scheduled to begin in April 2009, with the goal to begin operations in November 2009.

Honda is continuing its collaborative research on bio-ethanol production technology with RITE (Research Institute of Innovative Technology for the Earth) which began in 2006 and has been conducting research on the bio-ethanol conversion process using an experimental plant built within the Honda R&D Co., Ltd. Fundamental Technology Research Center (Wako, Saitama) since April 2007. In order to move toward practical application of the technology, Honda decided to build a new facility as it became necessary to conduct a research using a large-scale experimental facility which enables more accurate evaluations.

* Kazusa Akademia Park is a research and development zone where research, academia, production, and resort functions are gathered together.

[Source : HONDA]
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HERNDON : February 25, 2009 – After first introducing its clean diesel technology on the race track in 2008, Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced it will use B5 biodiesel to power its race cars, transport vehicles and generators during the 2009 Jetta TDI Cup season. Houston-based HYPERFUELS will supply B5 biodiesel for the series, which is sanctioned by the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) Pro Racing.


“We are extremely pleased to have HYPERFUELS as a partner for the 2009 Jetta TDI Cup series. SynDiesel^® B5 biodiesel has been fully approved for use in all Volkswagen TDI powered vehicles that are available at local Volkswagen dealerships today,” said Clark Campbell, Motorsport Manager, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “The addition of SynDiesel B5 biodiesel in the Jetta TDI Cup race cars further demonstrates the feasibility of biodiesel as an alternative fuel source for American consumers and supports the clean and green racing of the Jetta TDI Cup series,” added Campbell.


Performance testing has proven that diesel powered vehicles offer more low-end torque than traditional gasoline engines, providing quicker off-the-line acceleration that’s well suited for the race track. In addition, the Jetta TDI engine’s use of a “common rail” direct injection system improves fuel economy over gasoline engines and reduces sooty emissions by 95 percent, even under demanding race conditions. During the 2009 season, the Jetta TDI Cup cars will consume approximately two tanks of B5 biodiesel during race conditions and overall carbon emissions produced by the series will be reduced by 2,583 pounds as a result of the new fuel. These environmentally-friendly characteristics classify all Volkswagen TDI models as Advanced Lean Technology Vehicles, qualifying consumers for a $1,300 Federal Income Tax Credit.

"HYPERFUELS is excited that the 2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup and SCCA Pro Racing acknowledge that the addition of biodiesel creates a clean performance racing fuel," said Jess Hewitt, President, Gulf Hydrocarbon, the parent company of HYPERFUELS. "If we can help take biodiesel awareness and performance to the next level, then everyone wins. It's cleaner burning, yields a faster burn, produces less emissions and is easily accessible. I can't imagine a better fuel or better cars to showcase the performance and benefits of biodiesel," added Hewitt.

The SynDiesel B5 biodiesel that HYPERFUELS is supplying is a synthetically made diesel fuel, with a 63 cetane rating, storage life of up to 10 years and 20 percent more BTU’s than conventional diesel. The same fuel used in the 2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup racing series is available for purchase on www.hyperfuels.com

Beginning with the season-opening race on April 25 at VIRginia International Raceway, drivers will compete in ten events on eight road courses around North America in identical factory-prepared and maintained Jetta TDI’s powered by B5 biodiesel. The series champion will win $100,000. In addition, each driver who competes in the series will earn a Pro Racing license from SCCA at the conclusion of the season. The Jetta TDI Cup car is powered by a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder TDI clean diesel engine mated to a six-speed, double-clutch, automatic DSG transmission. The car is only slightly modified from stock with race suspension and brakes.

[Source : VOLKSWAGEN]
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NORFOLK : February 25, 2009 - Lotus Engineering, the world-renowned automotive consultancy division of Lotus Cars Limited, unveils its latest research into engine efficiency at the 79th International Geneva Motor Show. The Omnivore engine concept has the potential to significantly increase fuel efficiency for sustainable alcohol based fuels, which increases the prospect of a greater amount of vehicle miles travelled using renewable fuels. On display will be the single cylinder research engine monoblock that demonstrates the novel architecture designed for high thermal efficiency when fuelled on any alcohol based fuel or gasoline.


The Omnivore concept features an innovative variable compression ratio system and uses a two-stroke operating cycle with direct fuel injection. It is ideally suited to flex-fuel operation with a higher degree of optimisation than is possible with existing four stroke engines.


The engine concept features a monoblock construction that blends the cylinder head and block together eliminating the need for a cylinder head gasket, improving durability and reducing weight. In this case, the application of a monoblock is facilitated by the absence of the requirement for poppet valves. A novel charge trapping valve in the exhaust port allows asymmetric timing of exhaust flow and continuous variation of the exhaust opening point.

The variable compression ratio is achieved by the use of a puck at the top of the combustion chamber. This simple, yet effective system moves up and down affecting the change in geometric compression depending on the load demands on the engine.

Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus plc said: “We are delighted to unveil this major milestone in the development of an engine configuration for a new breed of more efficient multi-fuel engines. The automotive sector is focusing on its environmental obligations to improve efficiency, minimise reliance on fossil fuels and reduce harmful emissions and Lotus continues to be an industry leader through our work on all aspects of future fuels. Sustainable alcohol based fuels have the potential to reduce the overall CO2 footprint of internal combustion engines towards zero and for this reason, need to be embraced as future fuels for road transport.”


In this collaboration with Queen’s University Belfast and Orbital Corporation Limited Australia, with sponsorship from DEFRA/DECC and DOE NI through the Renewables Materials LINK programme, Lotus Engineering is currently in the final stages of commissioning the Omnivore single-cylinder research engine. It uses the Orbital FlexDI™ fuel injection system which produces fine in-cylinder fuel preparation irrespective of fuel type, and together with air pre-mixing allows efficient two-stroke combustion and low-temperature starting, whilst offering singular opportunity for advanced HCCI control.

The Omnivore programme is another development of Lotus’ research into understanding the complex combustion processes involved in running an engine on mixtures of alcohol based fuels and gasoline, which included the Lotus Exige 270E Tri-fuel, unveiled at the International Geneva Motor Show in 2008. This research is vitally important for a successful transition from today’s fuels to the more efficient sustainable fuels of the future.

Geraint Castleton-White, Head of Powertrain at Lotus Engineering said, “The absence of poppet valves in two-stroke engines makes the incorporation of a variable compression ratio system relatively straightforward. Our research into these systems on four-stroke engines has led us to the conclusion that while thermodynamically it is a desirable technology to incorporate, practically it is very difficult, particularly taking into consideration production feasibility. This two-stroke engine could solve these practical difficulties and simultaneously permits a much larger range of compression ratio adjustment, with the potential to perform at a much higher efficiency when running on renewable fuels.”

[Source : LOTUS]
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"M" is the most powerful and evocative letter in the BMW alphabet. The character that denotes BMW’s motorsport history and its prowess in developing road-going sports cars now enters a new chapter in its history.


In a first for BMW UK, the marque has teamed up with MotorSport Vision (MSV) to offer a package of high octane ‘M’ car thrills on some of Europe’s best circuits. Now anyone can drive the class-leading BMW M3 as part of MSV’s RaceMaster experience.

MSV’s expert instructors will help customers to extract every inch of performance from this outstanding machine. A fleet of BMW M3 Coupés will be offered for the RaceMaster driving experiences at former British Grand Prix circuit Brands Hatch in Kent and Oulton Park in Cheshire. As part of the RaceMaster package thrill-seekers also get the chance to undertake some flying laps of the circuit in a Formula Brands single-seater race car.

MSV will also be introducing an exclusive M3-only experience at Bedford Autodrome, in addition to the two other circuits, with even more track time behind the wheel. The BMW M3 will feature in MSV’s high octane corporate driving days and will be available to selected trackday participants at Club MSV events across its circuits.

Schooling for the next Andy Priaulx

The BMW experience is to be extended to the next generation of car owners, courtesy of the MotorSport Vision YoungDrive experience. Now children aged 13 and over who are at least 4’10’’ tall will be able to get the perfect introduction to driving in a safe, traffic free environment at either Brands Hatch, Oulton Park or Bedford Autodrome. Youngsters are allowed behind the wheel of a BMW 1 Series and start with the basics of car operation before graduating to car control and hazard perception and avoidance.

Jonathan Palmer, Chief Executive of MotorSport Vision, said: “BMW is a name synonymous with motorsport success, from its race winning Formula One team to its three World Touring Car titles with British superstar Andy Priaulx at the wheel. I’m delighted BMW has chosen MotorSport Vision as a partner for its UK-based driving experiences, as their outstanding machinery and expertise will elevate our driving packages to an even higher level, to give our guests a truly unforgettable experience.”

Tim Abbott, Managing Director for BMW UK Ltd, said: “With the operation MSV runs and the circuits at which they are based, BMW couldn’t wish for a more logical partner. MSV perfectly complements the ethos of BMW M while at the same time provides the next generation of drivers with their first taste of a BMW and the joy of driving.”

BMW will also power the essential race meeting safety vehicles at four MSV circuits – Brands Hatch, Oulton Park, Snetterton and Cadwell Park. The marque will provide four M3s to be used as safety cars, four BMW X6 medical cars and four X5 course vehicles.

[Source : BMW]
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ZUMIKON, Switzerland : February 25, 2009 - What is this? It is round, small and cuddly, has eyes to fall in love with, a sexy behind - and on demand 60 or 160 hp as necessary. It is Rinspeed’s answer to the fast changing requirements of the market and sociopolitical perception about the tuning industry.’ Rinspeed boss Frank M. Rinderknecht hits the nail on the head: “Just like the auto industry has to adjust to the demands of a new era, tuners have to look for new ways to do business as well.” The Swiss automobile visionary Rinderknecht, who has his roots in the tuning business, observes a change in people’s attitude, at least in the western world: “We need an intelligent use of our fossil resources, especially of our energy".


Rinspeed’s creation is based on the Abarth version of the Fiat 500. Its name ‘E²’ signals the fact that the nimble little Italian car is equipped with two different power levels: The 60-hp ‘Commuting’ level is more than sufficient to move along with city traffic while saving energy. In this mode the ‘E²’ consumes just some four liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. Outside the city, the ‘Highway’ mode provides driving fun and added power for fast and safe passing. In ‘Highway’ mode the engine produces 160 lively horsepower and transforms the Italian flea into a venerable hornet. Fuel consumption in ‘Highway’ mode is in the neighborhood of seven liters per 100 kilometers. The energy management system of the ‘E²’ is controlled by a small button in the cockpit that affects the engine electronics.

Rinderknecht believes he is on the right path with his new interpretation of automobile customizing. With the ‘E²’ and his concept car ‘iChange,’ which is much further removed from production, he wants to nudge the automotive as well as the tuning industries in a new direction, to leave well trodden paths and creatively look for new ones: “I don’t believe too much in eco tuning. Many drivers are not willing to miss out on driving fun and don’t want to drive a something that announces to the world that they do without. But the number of people who want to use our energy supply responsibly not in the least because they want to protect our environment will grow quickly.”






[Source : RINSPEED]
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STUTTGART : February 25, 2009 - A special edition of the smart fortwo will be celebrating its world premiere at the 79th Geneva Motor Show. The "edition limited three" boasts exclusive, elegant paintwork and a spring-like fresh interior design concept. Thanks to mhd technology as standard, the cult two-seater car combines a chic appearance with outstanding environmental friendliness. The smart fortwo "edition limited three" will be produced as a limited series.


smart is welcoming the spring with a special series featuring melon green metallic paintwork and extensive equipment, thus continuing the tradition of smart special models. The new special finish of the spring model injects a fresh shot of colour for the new season and harmonises with the tridion safety cell. The 15 inch alloy wheels in a sporty six-spoke design fitted with tyres measuring 175/55 R15 at the front and 195/50 R15 at the rear are a further eye-catching feature. The exterior look is rounded off by aluminium-effect "limited three" logos in the mirror triangle.

The interior boasts an unusual, fresh design concept in terms of colours and materials. Here, the melon green metallic colour scheme is continued in an exclusive fabric design with shades of brown creating a stylish contrast, for example on the seats and in the door trim. The instrument panel featuring dark brown leather-effect details also continues the fresh play of colours that contrast with the green fabric. The 3-spoke sports steering wheel with steering wheel gearshift is covered with dark brown leather, as is the gear knob. Shimmering matt silver trim parts round off the harmonious impression of the interior.

The new edition, which is available as a coupé and a cabriolet, is based on the "passion" equipment variant. Among other features it comes with softouch automatic gear programme, electric windows, air conditioning with automatic temperature control, and for the coupé a panoramic roof with sunblind. The standard equipment of the "edition limited three" also includes dashboard instruments and the radio 9. Power steering, heated seats, a lockable glove compartment and the smart sound system with five high quality loud speakers and a smart MP3 interface are optionally available.

The special series of the new smart fortwo also places a focus on "green" when it comes to the environment thanks to micro hybrid drive (mhd) technology as standard with an intelligent and user-friendly automatic start/stop system. The control electronics shut down the 52kW /71 hp engine as soon as the driver brakes and the vehicle's speed falls below 8 km/h - for example when approaching traffic lights. The engine starts again in the fraction of a second when the driver releases the brake pedal. The system is perfectly tailored to the automated manual transmission of the smart fortwo and is fully automatic - the driver does not need to do any clutchwork or gear shifting.

The automatic start/stop system reduces the combined fuel consumption by approximately eight percent (NEDC consumption per 100 km: coupé: 4.4 litres, cabrio: 4.5 litres). It also reduces the CO2 emissions to 104 grams per kilometre for the coupé and 106 grams per kilometre for the cabrio version. Fuel savings of up to almost 20 percent are possible in urban traffic with frequent stop-and-go situations.
The special model "edition limited three" costs €15,470 as a coupé and €18,510 as a cabrio (German list price incl. VAT).



[Source : DAIMLER]
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TOKYO : February 25, 2009 - Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. announced today that it has started testing a vehicle with a next-generation fuel-cell stack.


Announced in August, the new fuel cell unit is 25% smaller than the previous model and provides 1.4 times the power output, 130Kw against 90kw before. With half the amount of platinum in its electrodes and a more durable catalyzer, it will also last longer and be less expensive to build.

Working toward commercial introduction of the fuel-cell stack, Nissan began onboard testing in late 2008, and in February this year started cold-weather testing at its Hokkaido Proving Ground.
Nissan will show the technology at FC Expo 2009*, one of the world's largest fuel-cell exhibitions, scheduled for Tokyo Big Sight February 25-27.

The next-generation fuel-cell stack is part of a range of eco-friendly technologies that Nissan is pursuing under Nissan Green Program 2010, a plan focused on developing new technologies, products and services leading to real-world reductions in CO2 emissions, cleaner emissions, and expanded recycling of resources.







[Source : NISSAN]
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NASHVILLE, Tenn. : February 24, 2009 - Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced complete pricing on the 2009 Nissan cube^®, which goes on sale in early May at Nissan dealers nationwide. In conjunction with the pricing announcement, a new “Reserve Your cube^®” program, which allows customers to research and reserve the cube^® of their choice, launches today at Nissan USA.


The dramatically styled Nissan cube^® has a starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)* of $13,990 for the cube^® 1.8 equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission. Three other models are also offered: cube^® 1.8 S, priced at $14,690 with the 6-speed manual and $15,690 with the Xtronic CVT^® (Continuously Variable Transmission); cube^® 1.8 SL, priced at $16,790; and the cube^® 1.8 Krom specialty vehicle, priced at $19,360. Both the cube^® 1.8 SL and cube^® 1.8 Krom come with standard Xtronic CVT^®.

Available cube^® technology includes the Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Ignition, Bluetooth^® Hands-free Phone System, Rockford Fosgate subwoofer with six upgraded speakers, XM^® Satellite Radio (XM^® subscription required, sold separately) and Interface System for iPod^®.

In addition, cube will be available with more than 40 individual accessories, ranging from a unique 20-color interior illumination kit and “shag dash topper” to aerodynamic body kits and custom 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels – allowing cube^® owners to personalize their vehicles to reflect their own tastes and personalities.

“Cube has generated tremendous buzz for Nissan – it’s fun, functional and it’s an ideal extension of cube owners’ lifestyle,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, NNA. “Cube offers features that you just can’t put a price on – clever design, inviting interior, ease of driving and outstanding quality. No other car in its segment comes close to cube.”

“Reserve Your cube^®”
To help consumers navigate the expected strong demand for the new cube^® at launch, Nissan is making cube^® inventory information available online as part of a “Reserve Your cube^®” program. Accessed through NissanUSA.com/cube, buyers can view pricing, colors, trim and equipment available in their local areas, then contact a dealer to reserve a specific vehicle.

“The ‘Reserve Your cube^®” program will help facilitate conversations between customers and dealers, helping match cube^® and owner in a timely manner,” said Castignetti. “We’re excited about the cube^® launch and want to make the buying process as hassle-free as owning one.”

About the 2009 Nissan cube^®
The 2009 Nissan cube^® is designed to meet the practical needs of today’s active, environmentally aware drivers, providing a small footprint with a large interior space. The front-wheel drive cube^® is built on Nissan’s proven B-platform and is available with a standard 1.8-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine and a choice of Nissan’s advanced, smooth shifting Xtronic CVT^® (Continuously Variable Transmission) or 6-speed manual transmission.

Cube^®’s long list of standard safety features includes the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS), seat-mounted driver and front-passenger side-impact supplemental air bags, and roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection. Cube^® also offers standard front-seat Active Head Restraints, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS), along with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).

Along with the long list of standard features on the cube^® 1.8, the cube^® 1.8 S adds body-colored outside mirrors, premium grade fabric, cruise control, cargo area cover and more. The cube^® 1.8 SL adds standard CVT, 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, auto on/off headlights, Automatic Temperature Control, Interface System for iPod^®, six speakers and more. The uniquely equipped cube^® 1.8 Krom includes an exclusive integrated body design, Krom 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, sporty interior treatment, Rockford Fosgate subwoofer, Xtronic CVT^® and much more.



[Source : NISSAN]
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• The Continental Supersports is the fastest, most powerful Bentley ever with 630PS (621 bhp) 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds) and a 204 mph (329 km/h) top speed.
  
• The Supersports reaffirms Bentley's environmental commitment with the launch of its first FlexFuel performance car.
  
• The Supersports combines the looks of the iconic GT with a distinctive style that reflects its supercar character.
  
• The Supersports is the extreme Bentley delivering a highly focused driving experience – a muscular two-seater that is 110 kg lighter than the Continental GT Speed.

CREWE : February 25, 2009 - The Continental Supersports is the fastest and most powerful Bentley ever. It is the extreme Bentley, a muscular two-seater that delivers supercar performance and a highly focused driving experience.


The Supersports is also the first Bentley capable of running on both petrol (gasoline) and biofuel, pioneering the use of FlexFuel technology in the luxury sector. This represents stage one of the company's commitment to make its complete model range compatible with renewable fuels by 2012. Available worldwide from autumn 2009, the Continental Supersports will be FlexFuel compatible in the majority of markets from launch with North American cars offering the capability by summer 2010, following regulatory approval.


The Continental Supersports began as an 'under the radar' project exploring the possibilities of weight reduction on the Continental GT but with more power and torque. A largely experimental process crystallised over a period of 24 months into an official new car programme, driven by the passion and enthusiasm of a small group of Bentley engineers and designers.

The results are dramatic. With 630PS (621 bhp) and new 'Quickshift' transmission that halves shift times, the Supersports sets new performance benchmarks for Bentley. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds) onto a top speed of 204 mph (329 km/h).

Supercar performance is complemented by an array of chassis enhancements including retuned steering and suspension, utilising lighter weight components, retuned dampers and anti-roll bars.

Agility is further sharpened by the 40:60 rear-biased torque split for the all-wheel drive system, a wider rear track, bespoke lightweight 20-inch alloy wheels and a unique electronic stability programme.

Carbon ceramic brakes are standard fitment, benefiting steering response, grip and ride comfort, while saving weight. Overall, the engineering team have achieved a weight reduction of 110 kg (243 lb) compared with the Continental GT Speed.

The evolution of the Supersports' design is very much a case of 'form following function' with new purposeful sculptural forms signalling the engineering changes beneath the skin.

For example, the increased power and torque of the W12 engine necessitated additional airflow to the twin turbocharger intercoolers and cooling system. Bentley's designers responded with a purposeful and dramatic style that features large vertical intake apertures and twin bonnet vents.

Similarly, new flared rear wings that accommodate the 50 mm (2 inches) wider rear track are designed to emphasise the powerful stance of this ultra-high performance coupe. The resultant Supersports style combines the looks of the iconic Continental GT with a new and distinctive appearance that reflects its more extreme character.

The Supersports is further distinguished from its Continental coupe stable mates by a unique dark-smoked steel finish to all exterior 'brightware', including front grilles, lamp bezels, window surrounds and wheels. A complex 'Physical Vapour Deposition' process is applied to all stainless steel components to give a lustrous and highly durable finish. A car industry first, this process is normally used as a coating on industrial tools, watches and even hip replacement joints.

Fully embracing the extreme spirit of the Supersports, Bentley's interior designers have created a unique ambience. The cockpit represents a dramatic re-interpretation of Bentley interior design in which carbon fibre and AlcantaraTM not only convey a sporting and contemporary style but also reduce weight.

The Supersports is a strict two-seater featuring all-new lightweight sports seats with carbon fibre clamshell rear panels. In the rear compartment, the seats are replaced by a stowage deck with a carbon fibre luggage retaining beam.

The new interior also provides a showcase for the skills of Bentley's craftsmen and women at the company's factory in Crewe, England. Signature premium grade leather and brightware are complemented by carbon fibre panels, replacing traditional wood veneers.

The Continental Supersports is capable of running on either petrol and E85 biofuel or any combination of the two. E85 biofuel can offer a reduction of up to 70 per cent in CO₂ emissions on a 'well-to-wheel' basis.

Well-to-wheel is a measurement of a fuel's net CO₂ contribution to the atmosphere, not just tailpipe emissions. It is a way of quantifying how much CO₂ a fuel emits from its growth or extraction (well) to its combustion or deployment (wheel). It includes refinement, distillation and transport of the fuel.

The fuel supply system detects the blending ratio of the fuel in the tank and ensures that power and torque remain constant regardless of the ratio of petrol to biofuel. The result is seamless power delivery in the Bentley tradition.

The 'Supersports' name is inspired by the original two-seater 3-litre Supersports model introduced in 1925, itself an evolution of the 3-litre Speed. The lightweight, 85 bhp Supersports was the first production Bentley to reach 100 mph and was also renowned for the application of Le Mans-winning race technology.

Commenting on the new Supersports model, Dr. Franz-Josef Paefgen, Bentley's Chairman and Chief Executive said: "The Continental Supersports reflects the passion and enthusiasm of Bentley's engineers and designers. This is the fastest, most extreme Bentley ever, dramatically styled to underline its supercar character. Importantly, it also pioneers the use of FlexFuel technology in the luxury sector."


The fastest most powerful Bentley in the company's 90-year history

• 6-litre W12 engine twin-turbocharged engine now produces 630PS (621 bhp/463 kW) at 6000 rev/min and 800 Nm (590 lb ft) of torque at 1700 – 5,600 rev/min
  
• 0 – 60 mph in 3.7 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds)
  
• 0 -100 mph (0-160 km/h) in 8.9 seconds
  
• 50 – 70 mph in 2.1 seconds
  
• 80 – 120 km/h in 2.6 seconds
  
• Top speed of 204 mph (329 km/h)

Continental Supersports reaffirms Bentley's environmental commitment by pioneering the use of biofuel in the luxury sector

• Capable of running on petrol and E85 biofuel or any combination of the two
  
• Power and torque remain constant whatever the ratio of petrol to E85 biofuel
  
• A Fuel Quality Sensor detects the blending ratio of the fuel in real time sending a signal to the engine control unit (ECU), initiating the correct engine mapping. This ensures all performance parameters remain balanced and consistent.
  
• Offers a reduction in CO₂ emissions of up to 70% (well-to-wheel), a measure of a fuel's net contribution to the atmosphere, not just tailpipe emissions

Continental Supersports is the extreme Bentley, delivering a highly focused driving experience

• Revised ZF 6HP26 transmission with 'Quickshift' system that cuts shift times by 50% and enables double downshifts
  
• New 40/60 rear-biased torque split for the all-wheel drive system reduces understeer when powering out of bends and provides for better modulation of line and attitude by 'throttle steering'
  
• Uprated front suspension with aluminium forward levers, stiffer bushes together with retuned anti roll bar and Servotronic steering for sharper turn-in
  
• Revised Continuous Damping Control (CDC) for improved body control
  
• Unique lightweight, 20-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels offer 10 kg (22 lb) weight saving per car, reducing unsprung and rotating mass and improving brake cooling. Increased 25 mm (I inch) offset on rear wheels improves grip and stability
  
• 275/35 ZR20 Pirelli Ultra High Performance tyres
  
• Advanced ESP system fully exploits potential of the most powerful W12 engine and improved chassis
  
• Standard-fit carbon-ceramic brakes – the largest and most powerful brakes ever fitted to a production car - contribute 20 kg (44 lb) weight saving
  
• 110 kg (243 lb) weight saving compared to Continental GT Speed, Continental Supersports combines the looks of the iconic GT with a distinctive style that reflects its supercar character
  
• Form follows function: distinctive centre air intake and vertical grilles feed larger volume of air (+ 10%) to turbocharger intercoolers while bonnet vents extract hot air from engine bay
  
• Subtly curved rear wheel arches with newly tooled side panels accommodate increased rear track of the uprated chassis and provide muscular stance
  
• Distinctive 'smoked steel finish' to all exterior 'brightware', including the first automotive application of 'Physical Vapour Deposition' to stainless steel
  
• Larger, twin elliptical exhaust tailpipes and rear valance with discreet vertical divider
  
• 2 new pearlescent and 2 new matt finish colours
  
• Unique driver-focused, two-seater cabin with lightweight sports seats, giving a 45 kg (99 lb) weight saving
  
• Rear seats replaced by stowage deck with carbon fibre luggage retaining beam
  
• Alcantara^TM, carbon fibre and 'Soft Touch' leather' provide a very different interpretation of Bentley craftsmanship with choice of Single Tone and Duo Tone combinations

The fastest, most powerful Bentley ever
For the Continental Supersports, Bentley engineers have created the most powerful engine in the company's 90-year history.

Bentley's renowned 6-litre, twin-turbocharged W12 now develops 630 PS (621 bhp/463 kW) at 6000 rev/min, an increase of 3.5 per cent compared with the Continental GT Speed. Maximum torque of 800 Nm (590 lb ft), up by 6.7 per cent, is achieved from 1700 rev/min across virtually the entire rev range for effortless power delivery.

The extra power and torque resulting from the increased turbocharger boost necessitated a 10 per cent increase in air flow to the intercoolers and radiators following an extensive programme of Computational Fluid Dynamics.

Dramatically-styled front air intakes feed the intercoolers behind, while twin bonnet vents ensure positive extraction of hot air above the engine.

These changes also help to increase downforce at the front, balanced by the addition of a re-profiled spoiler on the rear aerofoil with a raised rear edge.

The new 'Quickshift' version of the six-speed ZF 6HP26 automatic transmission is engineered exclusively for the Continental Supersports. Shift time has been cut by 50 per cent and the revised transmission also helps double downshifts (e.g. 6th down to 4th)

During upshifts, fuel and ignition are cut momentarily to give faster mechanical shift times through torque reduction, also improving shift quality and durability. Positive torque during downshifts is achieved through engine and gearbox electronic controller interaction for extra throttle and fuel injection during the overrun. This replicates manual throttle 'blips' for precise rev matching and helps double downshifts for enhanced response.

Acceleration times are improved, response times throughout the whole gear range are enhanced and engine braking can be better exploited during enthusiastic driving. The result is a driving experience with a sportier feel and sound.

To cope with the additional power and torque, the planetary gear set of the ZF transmission is also strengthened.
The increased power and torque, 'Quickshift' transmission and a 110 kg reduction in weight endow the Supersports with a top speed of 204 mph (329 km/h) and a 0-60 mph sprint time of just 3.7 seconds (0 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds). It also accelerates from 0-100 mph (0-160 km/h) in just 8.9 seconds.

Engineering Bentley's first 'FlexFuel' engine

At the 2008 Geneva Auto Salon, Bentley announced a far-reaching environmental programme to reduce CO₂ emissions and improve fuel economy across its model range.

An important element of this strategy is by 2012 to make the entire Bentley fleet capable of running on renewable fuel through the introduction of FlexFuel technology, where engines are capable of running seamlessly on bioethanol, petrol or any mix of the two.

At the same time Bentley declared that this would be achieved without sacrificing its well-known performance and luxury.

This statement of intent has taken shape in the Continental Supersports – a car that balances extreme potency with the pioneering use of biofuel technology in the luxury sector.

The result is a net CO₂ reduction of up to 70 per cent on a well-to-wheel-basis, the measurement of CO₂ release of a fuel from its production (well) to its combustion or deployment (wheel).

Bioethanol can be derived responsibly from crops such as corn, soybeans, sugarcane and switchgrass. Second generation bioethanol uses the non-food fibres of the plant (biomass), as well as agricultural waste and forestry residues. These are collected and refined into cellulose ethanol.

CO₂ is absorbed by plants as part of the photosynthesis process, and cars using biofuel then release that CO₂ back into the atmosphere, thus creating an unbroken energy cycle. In addition, biofuels are not derived from fossil fuels, making them a renewable resource ensuring a secure supply into the future.

Bioethanol is often blended with petrol in a variety of percentages ranging from E10 (10% bioethanol) to the most widely known, E85, blended to a ratio of 85 per cent bioethanol to 15 per cent petrol to ensure cold-start capability.

Bioethanol presents unique engineering challenges compared with petrol, due to its chemical composition and characteristics. E85 biofuel has a very high octane rating of 105 but a lower energy content that requires a 30 per cent increase in the engine fuel flow rate.

This necessitated a complete review of the fuel system to identify, and if required replace, components deemed to be insufficiently resistant to the corrosive properties of ethanol.

For the fuel system all O-rings, seals, gaskets and pipes are new. In addition, increased fuel flow is achieved through a returnless fuel system and twin variable flow fuel pumps for the engine. The use of bioethanol also requires new valve coatings and hardened valve seat material for additional lubrication, a new closed loop fuel rail design with pressure sensor for higher fuel flow rates and new spark plugs with a wider heat range for slower combustion.

The W12 6-litre power unit has the technology to run on petrol, E85 or any mix of these two fuels.

A new Fuel Quality Sensor in the fuel supply circuit detects the current mix of petrol and bioethanol in real time. The engine control unit instantly initiates the correct engine mapping to ensure all performance parameters remain balanced and consistent. Power and torque remain constant whatever the ratio of petrol to bioethanol.

Brian Gush, Director, Chassis and Powertrain Engineering: "The W12 has been re-engineered to run on petrol or a mix of petrol and bioethanol. A sophisticated fuel sensing system ensures that power and torque remain constant irrespective of the fuel ratio to deliver seamless power delivery in the Bentley tradition."


A highly focused driving experience

The Supersports' high performance is complemented by an array of chassis enhancements and weight reductions to deliver a highly focused driving experience with the emphasis on grip, agility and response.

The complex, four-link front suspension features not only high stiffness aluminium uprights, but now lightweight aluminium forward levers (saving 4 kg/8.8 lb). New double-stiffened bushes are fitted at the inboard mounting point to improve steering response and feedback.

A new hydraulic bush for the trailing link is 33 per cent stiffer to improve response and has a revised damping peak for better control of fore-aft wheel movement.

The anti-roll bar geometry is retuned for improved roll stiffness, while the Servotronic speed-sensitive steering system is tuned for sharper turn-in, improved feel and linearity.

The front and rear suspensions benefit from changes to the electronic control strategy of the Continuous Damping Control (CDC) system that improve body control.

In common with the GT Speed, the Supersports' suspension is lowered by 10 mm (0.4 inches) at the front and 15 mm (0.6 inches) at the rear for optimal handling.

Agility is further sharpened by a revision to the continuous all-wheel drive system, which provides exceptional traction in all weathers. As before, the drive is transferred between the front and rear axles automatically via a highly sensitive Torsen centre differential which automatically sends more power to the wheels with greater grip.

For the Supersports, the standard 50/50 front/rear torque split is replaced by 40/60 split with a rear-bias. This provides for better modulation of line and attitude by 'throttle steering' as well as neutral acceleration out of bends.

The Supersports is fitted with unique, lightweight 9.5J x 20-inch forged alloy wheels, offering a total weight saving of 10 kg (22 lb) per car. These reduce both unsprung and rotating mass while the open 10-spoke design offers superior brake cooling. The rear wheels have a 25 mm (I inch) greater offset resulting in a 50 mm (2 inches) increase in the rear track, further benefiting handling and stability.

The new wheels are fitted with 275/35 ZR20 Pirelli Ultra-High Performance tyres, shared with the Continental GT Speed and provide excellent steering response. The wider rear track further enhances the already high level of grip.

To ensure optimum aerodynamic balance at speeds of up to 204 mph (329 km/h) the Supersports is fitted with a re-profiled automatic spoiler which deploys at 50 mph (80 km/h).

The Supersports is fitted with Bentley's carbon-ceramic brakes as standard – the largest and most powerful ever fitted to a production car. The large diameter (420 mm front, 356 mm rear), lightweight discs and eight-piston calipers offer fade-resistant braking performance with minimal disc distortion under high thermal conditions. A 20 kg (44 lb) weight saving reduces unsprung and rotating mass, benefiting steering response and handling. Pedal feel is also improved with shorter travel, high effectiveness and a precise pressure point.

The standard-fit tyre-pressure monitoring system allows drivers to select tyre type and speed range parameters. As well as monitoring pressures, the system warns drivers if their speed is too high for the tyre pressures or if tyre speed ratings are exceeded on winter tyres.

The Supersports features an advanced electronic stability programme (ESP) that exploits the potential of the more powerful engine and enhanced chassis, improving driver interaction and control. The new ESP also provides faster reinstatement of engine torque after intervention for improved agility. The target slip is increased at greater than 90 per cent throttle to utilise all available longitudinal grip. Corner exit agility is thereby enhanced for increased driver involvement.

Brian Gush, Director of Chassis and Powertrain Engineering comments: "The Supersports is an immensely capable real-world supercar with agility and traction in all driving situations. The new rear-bias all-wheel drive and retuned ESP systems allow the driver to fully exploit the potential of the W12 engine and optimised chassis."

Muscular styling: form follows function

The Bentley Continental Supersports was not born of market research. It started out as a kind of 'under the radar' project' with a team of four engineers investigating the additional performance potential of a lighter weight Continental GT.

Driven by this small, highly-motivated group of Bentley engineers the project gathered momentum. The team sought to create a rear-bias for the power delivery and also raise that power to create the fastest and most powerful Bentley ever. The design team was then briefed to make the new car 'extreme'.

The evolution of the Supersports' design was a clear case of form following function, the purposeful sculptural forms signalling the engineering revisions beneath the skin.

At the front, Supersports has a simple 'letter box' centre air intake flanked by two vertical grilles which give the car dramatic differentiation, making it seem wider (and therefore lower) while feeding a larger volume of cooling air to the intercoolers. Two new bonnet vents extract hot air from the engine bay.

At the rear, the subtly curved wheel arches are extended by 25 mm (I inch) each side, necessitating newly tooled panels, to accommodate the increased track of the uprated chassis. They provide the Supersports with a truly muscular stance, complemented by the new lightweight, 20-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels. The very open design allows a clear view of the carbon ceramic brake discs and calipers.

A new bumper with a black finish to the lower valance, houses larger (+ 40 mm/1.6 inches), unique elliptical exhaust pipes with a discreet vertical divider.

The Supersports is further distinguished by a unique dark-smoked steel finish to all exterior 'brightware', including front grilles, lamp bezels, window surrounds and wheels. A complex 'Physical Vapour Deposition' process is applied to all stainless steel components to give a lustrous and highly durable finish. A car industry first, this process is normally used as a decorative coating on watches and machine tools.

Four new exterior colours are available exclusively for the Supersports – pearlescent Ice and Quartzite and a first for Bentley, two matt finish colours, Light Grey Satin and Dark Grey Satin. Supersports customers will also have a choice of the 17 'standard' paint colours.

The new Continental Supersports will feature subtle external model badges incorporated in the smoked steel trim strip behind each wheel on the lower front wings.

Dr. Ulrich Eichhorn, Member of the Board, Engineering: "The Supersports was driven by the passion and enthusiasm of a small group of designers and engineers. Their aim was simple: to create a performance car exuding adrenaline and potency, where form follows function."


A unique driver-focused cabin

Fully embracing the extreme spirit of Supersports, Bentley's designers have created a unique ambience for the interior of this most 'driver focused' of Bentley cars. They have crafted a dedicated two-seat cabin that blends traditional leather hide with three new materials for Bentley – carbon fibre, AlcantaraTM and 'Soft Touch' leather. Traditional Bentley craftsmanship and fine detailing is retained but given a very different interpretation.

Dirk van Braeckel, Director of Design and Styling explains: "Our challenge was to create a driver-focused cabin that complements the extreme character of the exterior, using non-traditional materials whilst maintaining Bentley's high standards of quality and craftsmanship."

Light weight carbon fibre replaces wood veneer on the fascia and centre console, while the new lightweight front sports seats also feature a carbon fibre clamshell back. The rear seats are replaced by a stowage deck area with a carbon fibre luggage retaining beam.

A visible weave in all the carbon fibre components has a 'Bentley-specific' density and all the parts are finished at the company's Crewe wood shop.

The all-new lightweight sports seat frames are manufactured to a Bentley specification and assembled and trimmed at Crewe. The cushion angle is fixed but the seat can be raised/lowered by 40 mm (1.6 inches) by the dealer who will tailor each car to its owner's stature. The new seats have regular fore/aft movement, backrest recline adjustment and a heated cushion and backrest which tips forwards to provide access to the rear compartment. The new seat makes a significant contribution to the weight reduction target by saving a total of 45 kg (99 lb) versus the Continental GT Speed.

As the new sports seats do not have integrated belts, the top seatbelt anchorage was moved to the B-post. The Continental GT's twin centre armrests were replaced by a wider, single armrest above an enlarged centre console storage unit.

The headlining, rear compartment and the seat centre panels are finished in AlcantaraTM, a high quality suede-like material.

The AlcantaraTM applied to the rear compartment and seat facings is quilted and in the Supersports marks the return of the much smaller 'diamond' upholstery pattern from Bentleys of old.

To further highlight the car's sporty nature, the steering wheel and gear lever are trimmed in a new 'Soft Touch' leather with extra grip for a racing car feel.

The predominant interior colour is black with Beluga secondary hide and Anthracite AlcantaraTM. Customers however can personalise their interior by choosing between Single and Duo Tone themes.

Single Tone interiors feature primary and secondary hides in Beluga (black) and can be tailored to customer preference with a choice of contrasting stitching and piping (defining the seat edges) in seven colours – Newmarket Tan, Hotspur, Saffron, Linen, Portland, Porpoise or Beluga.

Duo Tone interiors offer a choice of three colour combinations with the primary hide in Newmarket Tan, Porpoise (grey) or Hotspur (red), the secondary hide in Beluga and the rear compartment and seats faces trimmed in Anthracite AlcantaraTM – as they are in the Single Tone cars.

These innovations are complemented by drilled alloy foot-pedals and 'Supersports' logos to the polished treadplates.

Conclusion

Commenting on the most extreme Bentley, Stuart McCullough, Member of the Board, Sales and Marketing said:
"The Supersports will appeal not only to existing Bentley customers but will extend the brand's appeal to enthusiasts who value extreme performance and distinctive styling in a luxury car that is fuelled for the future."

Technical Specification

Engine

• Capacity : 5,998 cc.
  
• Cylinders W12
  
• Aspiration Twin-turbocharged
  
• Installation Front, longitudinal
  
• Construction Alloy heads and block
  
• Bore/Stroke 84.0/90.2 mm
  
• Compression Ratio 9.0 : 1
  
• Fuel E85 & 98 (95) RON
  
• Valve gear Chain-driven DOHC per bank, 4 valves per cylinder, cam phased inlet and outlet
  
• Maximum Power 630PS/621 bhp/463 kW @ 6,000 rev/min
  
• Maximum Torque 800 Nm/590 lb ft @ 1,700 to 5,600 rev/min

Transmission

• Type Continuous all-wheel drive with 40/60 rear bias torque split
  
• Gearbox ZF 6-speed 'Quickshift' automatic
  
• Ratios 1st: 4.172
  
• 2nd: 2.340
  
• 3rd: 1.521
  
• 4th: 1.143
  
• 5th: 0.867
  
• 6th: 0.691
  
• Final Drive: 3.524:1 front 3.528:1 rear

Performance

Maximum Speed 204 mph (329 km/h)

• 0-60 mph 3.7 seconds
  
• 0-100 mph 8.9 seconds
  
• 30-50 mph 1.6 seconds
  
• 50-70 mph 2.1 seconds

• 0-100 km/h 3.9 seconds
  
• 0-160 km/h 8.9 seconds
  
• 50-80 km/h 1.6 seconds
  
• 80-120 km/h 2.6 seconds

Suspension

• Front Four-link double wishbones, computer-controlled self-levelling air suspension, anti-roll bar
  
• Rear Trapezoidal multi-link, computer-controlled self-levelling air suspension, anti-roll bar
  
• Dampers Continuous damping control with four adjustable settings

Steering

• Type Rack & pinion, power-assisted, speed-sensitive
  
• Turns lock to lock 2.6
  
• Turning circle 11.4 metres kerb-to-kerb
  

Brakes

• Front 420 mm diameter carbon/ceramic cross-drilled
  
• Rear 356 mm diameter carbon/ceramic cross-drilled
  
• Anti lock Standard with Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)

Body & Chassis

• Construction Steel monocoque, 2-door coupe
  
• Length 4804 mm (189.1 inches)
  
• Width across mirrors 2194 mm (86.4 inches)
  
• Width mirrors folded 1945 mm (76.6 inches)
  
• Kerb weight 2,240 kg (4,939 lbs)
  
• Height 1,380 mm (54.3 inches)
  
• Wheelbase 2,745 mm (108.07 inches)
  
• Front track 1,623 mm (63.9 inches)
  
• Rear track 1,657 mm (65.2 inches)
  
• Wheels 20" x 9.5J 10-spoke – Black Chrome or Painted
  
• Tyres 275/35x20 Pirelli P-Zero UHP; electronic tyre pressure monitoring system
  
• Boot (trunk) volume 370 litres (13.1 cu.ft)
  
• Fuel tank capacity 90 litres (19.8 gallons/23.8 US gallons)

Interior Dimensions

• Front legroom 1075 mm (42.3 inches)

Fuel Consumption / Emissions

• Fuel consumption - 98 (95) RON
  
• Urban: 11.5 mpg (24.5 litres/100km)*
  
• Extra Urban: 24.4 mpg (11.6 litres/100km)*
  
• Combined: 17.3 mpg (16.3 litres/100km)*
  
• EPA Drive Cycle City Driving: 13 mpg (US)*
  
• Highway Driving: 23.8 mpg (US)*
  
• Carbon dioxide emissions 388g/km*
  
• Emission controls EU IV and US Lev 11

* All figures are subject to final certification

Key Exterior Features

• Two new exterior colours: Ice and Quartzite
  
• Two exterior Matt colours: Dark Grey Satin and Light Grey Satin. Available as cost option
  
• New front bumper with larger air intake grilles
  
• Dual bonnet vents
  
• Restyled rear wings to accommodate 50mm wider rear track
  
• Unique, elliptical, rifled tailpipe trims
  
• Restyled rear bumper with black finish to rear valance
  
• Unique dark smoked steel finish to 'brightware'
  
• Complex 'Physical Vapour Deposition' process applied to stainless steel components for lustrous and durable finish
  
• Re-profiled automatic rear spoiler

Key Interior Features

• Two-seater with configuration
  
• New lightweight front seats featuring diamond quilted Alcantara™ and embroidered Bentley emblems. Manual controls
  
• Carbon fibre finish to fascia and centre console (in lieu of veneer)
  
• Diamond quilted Alcantara™ to door inserts
  
• 'Supersports' carbon fibre treadplates to both front doors
  
• Single tone interior with primary and secondary hides in Beluga (Black). Choice of contrast stitching and piping in seven colours including: Newmarket Tan, Hotspur, Saffron, Linen, Portland, Porpoise or Beluga
  
• Duo tone interior with the choice of Newmarket Tan/Beluga, Porpoise/Beluga or Hotspur/Beluga
  
• 3-spoke multi-function steering wheel and gear lever trimmed with 'Soft Touch' leather for extra grip
  
• Single centre armrest with increased stowage
  
• Rear compartment with carbon fibre crossbeam
  
• Drilled alloy sports pedals
• 
  
• Naim for Bentley Premium Audio System with 15 custom-built speakers – cost option

[Source : BENTLEY]
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TOKYO : February 24, 2009 - Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, today launches “Subaru Impreza WRX A-Line” which is a new addition to the current WRX STI model. The model goes on sale nationwide through Subaru dealerships today in Japan.



Based on the Impreza WRX STI, the WRX STI A-Line model was developed to offer its distinctive driving performance to a wider range of customers by integrating 2.5-litre turbocharged Boxer engine and 5 Speed Automatic Transmission with SPORTSHIFT*.

In addition, the current WRX STI was given some refinements to enhance comfort and quality feel; 8 way power adjustable front seats and a new body color, “Satin White Pearl”, is now available.


The model features the exclusively developed 2.5-litre Subaru BOXER turbo engine with SPORTSHIFT* E-5AT, while retaining the basic component such as chassis and body of the WRX STI, Subaru’s performance flagship.

Subaru Impreza WRX STI A-Line Technical Data

Engine:

• The unique 2.5-litre BOXER engine comes with a single scroll turbocharger and produces a flat torque from the low and mid-rev range to high-rev range.
  
• Dual Active Valve Control System (AVCS) was adopted to control continuously valve timing on both intake and exhaust valves, which improves low and mid-range range torque, high-rev range output and environmental friendliness.
  
• Tumble Generation Valve (TGV) controls the intake air stream to generate high combustion efficiency.

Drive train:

• SI-DRIVE (SUBARU Intelligent Drive), that enables the drivers to choose three different engine mappings, is standard.
  
• Paddle shift is featured to allow manual shifting without requiring the driver to release the steering wheel.
  
• Downshifting Blipping Control system was adopted. When down-shifting, the automatic transmission control unit interacts with the engine management system and increases engine revolutions instantly and to the exact required setting.
  
• Changing gears with the paddle shift can also be done by a temporary operation that does not require the selection lever to be set to the manual position.
  
• VTD (Variable Torque Distribution)-AWD system was adopted to provide excellent stability of the vehicle, which controls the torque distribution ratio between the front and rear axles depending on driving conditions.
  
• 17-inches ventilated dual piston disk brakes for the front, and 16-inches ventilated disk brakes for the rear were fitted.
  
• VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control) System is standard.

Interior:

• 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat is standard. Leather seats are available as optional and include (front) seat heating.
  
• Soft leather door trim with silver stitch is featured.

Major specifications:

• Engine type: Horizontally-Opposed 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve turbocharged engine
  
• Displacement: 2,457 cc
  
• Maximum output: 221kW (300 PS)/6,200 rpm
  
• Maximum torque: 350 Nm (35.7 kgf·m)/2,800~6,000 rpm
  
• Turbo type: Single Scroll turbocharger

*SPORTSHIFT is a registered trademark of Prodrive Ltd.















[Source : FHI-SUBARU]
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• The ultimate open air motoring experience
  
• Lightweight fabric hood preserving DBS’s purity of lines and beauty
  
• Class leading handling characteristics and torsional strength
  
• At home in the town or city as on country roads

GAYDON, Warwickshire : February 25, 2009 - Aston Martin will premiere the DBS Volante at the Geneva Auto Salon on the 3rd March 2009. Completing the DBS line-up, the new Volante will afford customers the combination of the DBS’s already-established benchmark sports car characteristics with all the thrills of open-air motoring.



Broadening the DBS’s character, the DBS Volante will appeal to drivers who wish to combine the excitement of driving a finely-tuned sports car with the invigorating feeling of being open to the elements. This juxtaposition of ultimate performance and openness stirs the senses on any drive whether an exhilarating jaunt on favoured roads or cruising on lengthy journeys. ‘Volante’, meaning ‘moving with light rapidity’, perfectly defines the performance potential and the dynamic characteristics of the DBS Volante.

Featuring a motorised retractable fabric roof, the DBS’s beautiful profile is preserved whether up or down. When the roof is closed, it provides a warm comfortable ambience and when open, it neatly disappears behind the new tonneau cover at the touch of a button.

Aston Martin’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ulrich Bez said: “The DBS Volante delivers the utmost relaxed driving experience with the hood up or down. It combines engineering excellence with design perfection.

“The DBS Volante offers a subtle mix of power and performance. Adding to this, the fine craftsmanship – it is an unparalleled ownership and driving experience.”
Conceived as a Volante from the outset, Aston Martin engineers opted for a fabric hood to closely follow the silhouette of the DBS coupe and due to its lightweight properties, minimise overall weight gain. Fully retractable in only 14 seconds and at up to speeds of 30 mph (48 km/h), the roof will automatically stow under the newly sculpted tonneau, maintaining the DBS Volante’s perfect form – hood up or down.

Power is provided by Aston Martin’s hand-built all alloy 6.0-litre V12 engine producing 510 bhp (380 kW / 517 PS), and 570 Nm (420 lb ft) of torque with a top speed of 191 mph (307 km/h) and 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 4.3 seconds. The nature of the V12, and in particular the torque available at all engine speeds, serves to provide effortless driving in all situations.


Aston Martin’s 16th convertible in 95 years, the DBS Volante draws on the marque’s extensive experience in designing iconic ‘Volantes’ and is a 2+2 featuring two occasional rear seats, ideal for young people or extra luggage. In standard specification, the DBS has a rear-mounted six-speed manual gearbox, while an automatic six-speed ‘Touchtronic’ option is also available. As with the coupe, the Volante is offered with carbon ceramic brakes as standard providing exceptional stopping power. Benefitting from materials derived from the motorsport and aerospace industries, the bonnet, front wings and boot lid are made from carbon fibre all helping to reduce weight.

The DBS Volante also comes with Bang & Olufsen’s renowned ‘BeoSound DBS’ in-car entertainment system, featuring 13 speakers as standard equipment. The BeoSound DBS has been expertly tuned by Bang & Olufsen’s Tonmeisters and Aston Martin’s acoustic engineers specifically for the Volante resulting in a system that senses when the roof has been retracted and adjusts the sound stage to compensate for extra wind noise, providing an unrivalled automotive audio experience.

The DBS Volante will be built at Aston Martin’s global headquarters at Gaydon, Warwickshire with customer deliveries expected to commence during quarter three 2009 and prices will be confirmed at the Geneva Auto Salon.

Aston Martin DBS Volante Specification :

Body

• Two-door convertible body style with 2+2 seating
• Bonded aluminium VH structure
• Aluminium, magnesium alloy and carbon-fibre composite body
• Extruded aluminium door side-impact beams
• High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps (main beam)
• LED rear lamps and side repeaters

Engine

• All-alloy, quad overhead camshaft, 48-valve, 5935 cc V12
• Compression ratio 10.9:1
• Front-mid mounted engine, rear-wheel drive
• Fully catalysed stainless steel exhaust system with active bypass valves
• Max power: 380 kW (510 bhp / 517 PS) at 6500 rpm
• Max torque: 570 Nm (420 lb.ft) at 5750 rpm
• Acceleration: 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.3 seconds
• Max speed: 307 km/h (191 mph)

Transmission

• Rear-mid mounted, six-speed manual gearbox. Rear-mid mounted ‘Touchtronic 2’ six-speed gearbox with electronic shift-by-wire control system
• Alloy torque tube with carbon fibre propeller shaft
• Limited-slip differential
• Final-drive ratio 3.71:1 (manual) 3.46:1 (Touchtronic)

Wheels and Tyres

• Front: 8.5’’ x 20’’ Pirelli P Zero 245/35
• Rear: 11’’ x 20’’ Pirelli P Zero 295/30

Steering

• Rack and pinion, Servotronic speed-sensitive power-assisted steering, 3.0 turns lock-to-lock
• Column tilt and reach adjustment

Suspension

• Front: Independent double wishbone incorporating anti-dive geometry, coil springs, anti-roll bar and monotube adaptive dampers
• Rear: Independent double wishbones with anti-squat and anti-lift geometry, coil springs, anti-roll bar and monotube adaptive dampers
• Adaptive Damping System (ADS) with Track mode

Brakes

• Front: Ventilated carbon ceramic discs, 398 mm diameter with six-piston callipers
• Rear: Ventilated carbon ceramic discs, 360 mm diameter with four-piston callipers
• Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Track mode
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
• Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Emergency Brake Assist (EBA)
• Traction control
  

[Source : ASTON MARTIN]
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ROLLE, Switzerland : February 24, 2009 - Nissan is preparing a move into the global small van market with the introduction of its all new spacious yet compact NV200 small van.


Designed from the outset as both a commercial and a passenger vehicle, the Nissan NV200 brings new levels of space, comfort and practicality to the small van market, both in Europe and other global markets.

NV200 will be available in three different versions: a van with the largest load space in its class and two seven seat variants – the functional Combi version for loads and passengers, and the more plush passenger car version, which will be shown at Geneva Motor Show next month.

“The Nissan LCV business is in a phase of expansion even in these challenging financial circumstances,” said Andy Palmer, Senior Vice President, Global Product Planning, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. “We aim to expand our business with smart new products and services that meet the needs of our customers, both in Europe and around the world.”

He added: “The NV200 is our proposal for a global small van. It offers outstanding utility and smart convenience with low cost of ownership, packaged in a highly functional design. With this vehicle, Nissan aims to meet the needs of customers looking for a functional, adaptable light van. We will launch the NV200 in Japan before summer, in Europe in autumn 2009 and then in China and other markets.”

Maximised cargo area
NV200 uses innovative packaging ideas to create the largest and most practical cargo area in its class. Although a little under 4.4m in overall length, the van version of the NV200 has a load bay that’s more than 2m long (2040mm).

With front-wheel drive and the adoption of a highly compact rear suspension system, the NV200 can house two standard Euro pallets in the cargo area at a time. At 1.84m high NV200 is no taller than its rivals, while at 520mm from ground level, the floor itself is the lowest in the class to ease loading, helping to boost the cargo volume to 4.1m3. Maximum payload is 771kg.

Spacious interior
A large cargo area is a vital attribute for a van, of course, but the generous interior dimensions of NV200 also translate into ample passenger space in the Combi version.

Unlike some other manufacturers that fit removable seats – which are invariably heavy to lift and need to be stored elsewhere when not in use – the seats in the Combi stay with the vehicle at all times. The middle row backrest has a 60/40 split to increase versatility and the entire assembly tumbles forward to fold flat against the front seats, while the rear pair fold individually to either side of the load area.

Throughout the creation of NV200, attention has been paid to ensuring the highest levels of quality with shut lines and panel gaps in line with the expectations of passenger car buyers.

While the van optionally is available with a side window it, differs from the passenger versions at the rear where it has twin side hinged “French” doors. Both seven-seaters have a fully glazed top hinged tailgate – though the Combi will be available with French doors - while the windows on both side doors have a sliding section for extra ventilation.

Road car platform
Built on a modified version of Nissan’s B Platform, NV200 has fully independent strut type front suspension mounted on a separate subframe and a compact and lightweight yet robust wide leaf spring rear axle.

Performance comes from a choice of two engines, one petrol and one diesel.

The petrol version will be powered by Nissan’s renowned all aluminium 1.6-litre HR16 engine, as found in Micra, Note and Qashqai. Displacing 1,598cc, the 16-valve unit develops 79kW (108PS) and 153Nm of torque and is mated to a five-speed manual transmission.

The diesel, also found on Note and Micra, is Alliance partner Renault’s acclaimed 8-valve 1.5 dCi (K9K) 1,461cc engine. Developing 200 Nm of torque and 63kW (86PS), it offers an ideal blend of performance, refinement and fuel economy. Power is transmitted through a five-speed gearbox.

To create more space in the cockpit, the gearlever extends not from the floor but from the two-tone wrap around centre console. Above the gearlever, the centre section houses the heating and ventilation controls and the double DIN radio slot. Heating and ventilation extends to all three rows of seats.

Well equipped
The NV200 is availble with an optional rear view parking camera, a first for a van in this segment, while the cabin is full of storage spaces, pockets and cup/bottle holders. There is also a secret storage space large enough to hide camera, mobile phones or vital documents within the upper portion of the glovebox.

Joining the parking camera, other car-like items of standard or optional equipment include features such as Nissan’s Intelligent Key, power windows and ESP. Safety equipment includes anti-lock brakes with brake assist (BA) and electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) as standard. Driver and passenger airbags are also standard with side bags available as an option.

Pedestrian safety has also been considered with extra crash absorbing material in the bonnet and the adoption of an energy-absorbing bonnet.

Low cost of ownership
Cost of ownership is projected to be among the lowest in the class thanks in part to the low running costs and high efficiency of the engines and drivetrains, but also thanks to the safety structure which helps to minimise crash damage to vulnerable under bonnet parts such as the radiator.

“With its intelligent layout and packaging helping to give it the largest cargo area in its class, NV200 delivers the right combination of functionality and efficiency. That same practicality can be found in both the Combi and passenger version, but with the added benefit of car-like comfort and features”, said Dominique Correze, Vice President, Nissan’s European LCV Business Unit.

Nissan NV200 at a glance :

• Three different configurations of NV200
  
• Sliding side doors for ease of entry
  
• 4.1m³ of loading space in van version
  
• Economical petrol and diesel engines
  
• Low cost of ownership
  
• Family version is seven seat people carrier
  
• Global model for multiple regions

[Source : NISSAN]
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ROVIO, Switzerland : February 24, 2009 - Protoscar SA will unveil LAMPO - a full size sport cabriolet - at the next Geneva Motor Show on March 2nd, 2009 (stand 5141 in the e-mobile area). LAMPO is powered by two BRUSA electric motors (one rear and one front), optimized for maximizing acceleration and regenerative braking respectively. They deliver a total output of 268 HP and a torque of over 440 Nm. The lightweight Lithium-Ion battery pack with a capacity of 33.6 kWh allows for a range of over 200 km. LAMPO shows that also a zero-emission electric vehicle can offer the same performance as a traditional sporty car.


The primary energy source used for charging the LAMPO has been in existence for more than 4.5 billion years and has demonstrated to be rather reliable: it’s the sun. The exploitation of solar energy for LAMPO is possible thanks to a 16 kWp photovoltaic plant located in Seggiano, Tuscany.

Never before a premium driving pleasure like the one of the LAMPO has been achieved at such an optimal level of overall “Well-to-Wheel” energy efficiency - and zero emissions. However, even if the LAMPO was “filled up” with today’s particularly clean Swiss electricity mix, the WtW CO₂ emissions of this vehicle would only account for about 7 g/km! Considering the EU electricity mix projection scenario for 2020, elaborated by Eurelectric, the WtW CO₂ emission would still be limited to about 40 g/km.

Through the showcar LAMPO, Protoscar and its partners aim to demonstrate new technologies which include absolute innovations such as „intelligent charging“ or interactive GPS-based „range estimator“ – and discuss potential applications together with car manufacturers, in order to implement these solutions into their plans for future CleanCars.

On March 2, 2009 Protoscar will release a complete set of pictures realized by the well known photographer Adriano Heitmann, as well as the detailed technical specifications of LAMPO and some short videos explaining its main features.














[Source : PROTOSCAR]
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Maserati GB and London’s leading model agency Independent continue their partnership as London Fashion Week showcases the Autumn/Winter ’09 collections of the best British designers.



Throughout this week, top models from Independent Model Agency are chauffeured around in the latest and most powerful Maserati creations: the GranTurismo S and the Quattroporte S. Both cars are perfectly at home cruising around town, offering a stylish and refined retreat from the feverish catwalk action and creating a sense of occasion every time they appear, thanks to the enticing sound of their exhaust note.

And for car-mad fashionistas Maserati launches today the limited edition Momaboma eco-bag. Hand-made in Italy from old Maserati brochures, the Momaboma bag celebrates the history of one of the most prestigious car brands in the world. Produced in a limited edition of 150 pieces, the Momaboma goes on sale today with a retail price of £130.

The Maserati GranTurismo S is the ultimate expression of the Trident’s sportiness. Its 440 hp V8 4.7 litre engine, electro-actuated gearbox with fast MC Shift, transaxle layout, sporty exhaust and dual-cast brakes make the GranTurismo S a true ambassador for Maserati’s sporting flair, with acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in 4.9 seconds and a maximum speed of 183 mph, the highest ever reached by a standard production Maserati.

Prices for the Maserati GranTurismo S start from £88,000.

The Maserati Quattroporte S, the latest incarnation of Maserati’s iconic flagship saloon, has a dual soul as a luxury saloon with sports-car performance and is fully responsive in all driving conditions whilst cosseting the driver in its luxurious and distinctive ‘Made in Italy’ interior. It’s equipped with a 4.7 litre V8 delivering a maximum power output of 430 hp, accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 5.4 seconds and has a maximum speed of 174 mph.

Prices for the Maserati Quattroporte S start from £83,200

[Source : NEWSPRESS]
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The Nikkei reports that Mercedes-Benz Japan Co. will begin sales of the S400 BlueHYBRID (earlier post) in October. This will be the first imported hybrid passenger car sold in Japan.

It could also end up being the first imported car to take advantage of the tax breaks on eco-friendly cars coming into effect this April. Prices have not yet been set, but the hybrid S-Class will very likely sell for around 12-13 million yen. [US$129,000-139,000].

Daimler AG will begin sales of the hybrid in Europe during the first half of 2009.


The S400 BlueHYBRID combines a modified 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine that delivers 205 kW (279 hp) of power with a 120V, 15 kW electric motor and a starting torque of 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque. The combined system delivers power of 220 kW (299 hp) and a combined maximum torque of 385 Nm (284 lb-ft), with fuel consumption of 7.9 L/100km (30 mpg US) and CO2 emissions of 190 g/km. The S 400 hybrid is one of seven hybrid models Daimler announced in September 2007 that will be rolled out over the next few years.


[Source : NIKKEI via GCG]
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GOTHENBURG : February 24, 2009 - At the Geneva motor show, Volvo Cars is presenting no less than seven fuel-efficient DRIVe models. All with best-in-class CO₂ emission levels. The extremely low figures for the C30, S40 and V50 have been achieved thanks to an advanced Start/Stop system.


The DRIVe badge is attached to cars in the Volvo range that have the best environmental performance in their class. All today's DRIVe models are equipped with a conventional diesel engine and manual gearbox optimised for extra-low fuel consumption. These cars are also tailored specifically for low rolling resistance and reduced air drag.

"Our dedicated focus on the DRIVe models in 2009 demonstrates Volvo Cars' ability to quickly respond to customers' increasing demands for products with low fuel consumption and low environmental impact. At the Paris motor show in 2008, we began our broad-based launch of the DRIVe models via the C30, S40 and V50. Now both the market and we are ready to step up to the next stage," says Stephen Odell, President and CEO of Volvo Cars.

"By supplementing the DRIVe range with the larger V70, S80, XC60 and XC70, Volvo also has one of the premium segment's strongest ranges of attractive, fuel-efficient cars offering excellent environmental properties," continues Stephen Odell.

DRIVe at three levels: 120g, 140g, 160g

The Volvo Cars DRIVe range is divided into three categories linked to three emission levels: 120, 140, and 160g CO₂/km.

"The categories signal Volvo's highly ambitious CO₂ targets in each respective segment. They also match the special CO₂ tax brackets and other governmental green-car incentives found in many European countries. Our aim is to continue to further reduce these levels as we develop new, even more environmentally optimised products," explains Stephen Odell.


C30, S40, V50 way below 120g

As of spring 2009, the Volvo C30, S40 and V50 1.6D DRIVe will be offered with an advanced Start/Stop function. This helps lower emissions to just 104g CO₂/km for the Volvo C30 and 107g CO₂/km for the S40 and the V50 family estate model. The C30 thus also meets the lowest eco-tax levels (105g) in Europe.

The first Volvo models with Start/Stop function

In order to reduce carbon dioxide emissions to such an extent, the new DRIVe versions of the C30, S40 and V50 have been equipped with two intelligent new features. One is a Start/Stop function that allows the engine to switch off when the car is at a standstill, for instance while waiting at traffic lights or when stuck in traffic queues.

If the driver puts the gear lever into neutral and releases the clutch while at a standstill, the engine switches off. The next time the driver presses the clutch, the engine starts up again. This technology can reduce fuel consumption and thus carbon dioxide emissions by 4-5% in mixed driving conditions. Start/Stop technology is particularly effective in urban traffic, when the saving may be as much as 8%.


Volvo-unique levels of comfort and quick start-up time

While the car is at a standstill and the engine is switched off, some electronic systems such as the air conditioning step down to standby level in order to save fuel. However, the Start/Stop system continuously monitors the comfort level and automatically reactivates the relevant systems if for instance the temperature increases in the passenger compartment. The system does not set any limits for comfort-enhancing features such as the sound system or other facilities that the customer wants to maintain.

This monitoring system, which is specific to Volvo Cars, and the resultant high comfort level have been made possible owing to an additional small battery that supports the larger battery by providing extra power. Thanks to this extra battery, Volvo's DRIVe models also feature particularly quick and smooth start-up and the audio system, for instance, remains totally unaffected when the starter motor is activated. This distinguishes Volvo Car's solution from that offered by the competition. What is more, the standard larger battery has been upgraded to handle up to 175,000 Start/Stop cycles.

The driver continuously receives feedback about system status via the in-car information display. The Start/Stop function can be engaged and disengaged via a special DRIVe button in the centre console. In the default setting, the function is activated. In the future, this special DRIVe button will also regulate additional systems such as the DRIVe "economy settings" for particularly fuel-efficient performance that are on the way in forthcoming models.


Charges the batteries via kinetic energy

The other new feature in the C30, S40 and V50 DRIVe 1.6D with Start/Stop is what is known as a regenerative charge facility. This is a function that charges the battery as soon as the driver releases the accelerator or brakes while a gear is engaged. By harnessing the car's kinetic energy, the alternator does not have to use diesel fuel as a power source when the battery's charge level dips. Fuel savings of between 2 and 3% can be achieved with this function.

V70 and S80 slip below 140g

For the first time ever, the Volvo V70 and S80 are now also being offered in DRIVe versions. The cars are equipped with the same powertrain - 1.6-litre diesel engine and manual gearbox - as the smaller models but with specially tailored engine software and different ratios in third, fourth and fifth gears.

The optimised powertrain is a major aid in helping Volvo's larger sedans and family cars significantly cut their fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions :

• V70 down to 4.9 l/100 km and 129g, an improvement of 18% compared with today's two-litre diesel.
  
• S80 down to 4.9 l/100 km and 129g, an improvement of 15% compared with the two-litre diesel.

"We feel that the customer should not have to compromise on either driving properties or comfort despite the smaller engine size. These cars have perfectly adequate performance and in addition a very low environmental impact, actually at a level that none of the competitors in this size class even begin to approach," says Magnus Jonsson, Senior Vice President, Product Development at Volvo Cars.

Several other factors also contribute to the reduction in fuel consumption, for example the tyres that have been specially designed for low rolling resistance. For the first time the V70 and S80 DRIVe versions are also equipped with an electric power steering pump that delivers exactly the servo assistance the driver requires, in a precise and energy-efficient way. All DRIVe models feature this power steering system.

The V70 has the following special features to reduce air drag :

• Covered grille
  
• Lowered chassis (20 mm front, 15 mm rear)

XC60 and XC70 now below 160g

For model year 2010, the powertrain range for the new Volvo XC60 crossover and the XC70 adventure estate will expand with a front-wheel drive DRIVe version powered by the 2.4D engine. CO₂ emissions will be 159 g/km and fuel consumption a best-in-class 6.0 l/100 km for both cars.

In addition to front-wheel drive, a number of minor improvements all help deliver the new model's competitive fuel consumption and CO₂ figures. Volvo Cars' engine experts have also succeeded in reducing friction and pump losses in the diesel engine and in cutting the pressure drop in the intake and exhaust systems.

Injection pressure has increased with the latest generation of high-pressure pumps and the injection architecture has been refined with the help of a piezo-electric system. The engine now has lower compression, more efficient combustion and the latest generation of engine management software. What is more, the turbocharger has been optimised to deliver high torque from low revs.

The gear ratios have been optimised so the car can be driven economically. For instance, when driving at 100 km/h in top gear, engine revs and thus also fuel consumption are lower with the new powertrain.

One important part of the development brief was to retain the sporty driving properties that are a central part of these cars' attraction.

"More horsepower, higher torque and a sporty chassis setting all help give the front-wheel drive version the right XC60 dynamics. It is the perfect choice for the customer who wants to focus on CO₂ emissions without compromising on driving pleasure," says Magnus Jonsson.

"The XC70 DRIVe succeeds in combining high comfort and get-you-there ability with low fuel consumption. Just like the other models, the XC70 DRIVe is optimised for real-life driving conditions. This means it is tested in driving cycles that resemble the situations in which customers actually use their cars. That is why the low figures given in our press material will be very close indeed to the figures customers actually get in the car's trip computer during normal driving out on the road," continues Magnus Jonsson.

Improving the efficiency of the entire product range

Volvo Car's improvements to the environmental properties of its product range are not limited to the DRIVe versions. The fuel-reduction measures of these cars will also benefit the rest of the range. What is more, all the automatic transmissions will be 5 - 7% more efficient in forthcoming versions within the coming two years.

"Our aim is to offer cars that have the lowest CO₂ emissions in each size class. DRIVe is the symbol for this process and the cars bearing this badge are those with which we have made most progress. However, the fuel-efficiency focus encompasses all our products and powertrains. By offering a broad-based product portfolio with highly economical and more powerful alternatives, the customer is able to choose his or her own level of environmental imprint," says Magnus Jonsson.

Performance, CO₂ emissions and fuel consumption, Volvo DRIVe models year 2010:



[Source : VOLVO]
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GENEVA : February 24, 2009 - Keeping up its reputation for showing concepts that lead to reality, Kia is playing the numbers game at the Salon de l’Automobile in Geneva next week with the debut of the all-new No 3 concept.


Carving a new niche in the small-car market the No 3 delivers flexibility and fun creating a beautiful car that is also great to drive – and even better will be great to be seen in!


The concept features a unique extended windscreen and panoramic glass roof with a diagonal supporting bar and an automatic sun visor.

Designed by Kia’s European design team, led by Peter Schreyer, the No 3 also features the new ‘face of Kia’ with the front grille, head lamps and brand logo in a new constellation arrangement.

The 4,045 mm long concept is finished in matt Titanium Grey with contrasting gloss-white accents and will be unveiled at 12.15pm on Tuesday 3 March at the Kia stand in hall 4/5.


[Source : KIA]
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MODENA : February 23, 2009 – True to Maserati’s commitment to introduce a new model at every international car show, the GranTurismo S Automatic will première at the next Geneva Auto Show on 3rd March.



The new Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic features a 4.7 V8 which develops 440 HP (323kW) at 7000 rpm. The maximum torque is 490Nm at 4.750 rpm.

The major novelty is the combination of the automatic transmission with the most powerful wet sump Maserati V8 on the GranTurismo – until now offered as 4.2 l with automatic transmission and 4.7 l with an electro-actuated gearbox. Thanks to the combination of the 323kW produced by the powerful 4.7l V8 engine and the smoothness of the ZF 6-speed automatic gearbox, the Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic stresses the original granturismo concept while at the same time offering peak performance.

The Skyhook suspension system featuring continuously adjustable dampers provides great driving comfort. Passive safety is further enhanced thanks to the introduction on the GranTurismo range of a new generation passenger air-bag with Low Risk Deployment functionality.

Consistently with the unmistakable design of all Maseratis, the Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic features some marked stylistic differences which make it immediately recognisable: the new under-door mini-skirts featuring a prominent shape, which enhances the dynamism of its profile and the new 20” wheel rims with “Trident” design, which recall the strength and elegance of the car.


A further enriched equipment increases the on board pleasure for the driver and the three passengers, thanks to the Bluetooth® Wireless Technology, offered as standard, and the Ipod® interface, available upon request, which complete the Maserati Multi Media System.

[Source : MASERATI]
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MELBOURNE, Australia : February 23, 2009 - Hybrid cars made from seaweed - that’s the dream of a Toyota engineer responsible for the 1/X concept car on display at this year’s Melbourne International Motor Show.


The 1/X (pronounced “one-Xth”) gets its name because it envisages a hybrid-powered car of the future with a fraction of the environmental footprint of today’s cleanest cars.

Project manager Tetsuya Kaida said the 1/X design concept uses high-tech materials available today, but is built with the future in mind.

“We used light weight carbon fibre-reinforced plastic throughout the body frame for its superior collision safety, but that material is made from oil,” Mr Kaida said.

“In the 2020s, I’m sure we will have access to new and better materials, such as those made from plants - something natural, maybe something like paper.

“In fact, I want to create such a vehicle from seaweed because Japan is surrounded by the sea - this is my dream.”

Mr Kaida said the 1/X forces people to redefine their ideas of what it means to be environmentally considerate.

He said it points the way towards a much more sustainable relationship between humans and the environment.

The technologies it explores could be used for all Toyota vehicles - from a Yaris to a LandCruiser.

“It is also a direction for a future Prius - two or three generations ahead of the current car,” he said.

Interior space is on par with today’s Prius, but - at around 420kg - the concept car weighs just one-third of other vehicles in its class.

Designers are aiming at twice the fuel economy by combining a plug-in hybrid powertrain with flexible fuel technology using a mixture of ethanol and petrol.

The 500cc engine is one-third the size of today’s Prius and allows charging from external sources, such as a powerpoint at home or at work.

Its electric-only cruising distance would be longer than today’s battery technology would allow, emitting less CO2 and helping to reduce air pollution.

The innovative and highly efficient power unit is mounted midship, under the rear seat, and drives the rear wheels.

Toyota 1/X in figures

• Length (mm) 3,900
  
• Width (mm) 1,620
  
• Height (mm) 1,410
  
• Wheelbase (mm) 2,600
  
• Seating capacity 4

[Source : TOYOTA]
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MELBOURNE, Australia : February 23, 2009 - Toyota Australia has celebrated winning the right to manufacture a hybrid car in Australia by producing a stylish concept car.


Developed locally by Toyota Style Australia, the HC-CV (Hybrid Camry Concept Vehicle) had its world premiere ahead of the 2009 Melbourne International Motor Show.

The unveiling of the concept car marks the start of a 12-month countdown to the launch of Australia's first locally produced hybrid car, based on the best-selling Camry sedan.

Toyota Australia president and chief executive officer Max Yasuda said the concept car was the most important vehicle on the company's motor show stand.

"The startling paintwork, dramatic lines and sporty appearance of this concept car convey the excitement and passion in our company to produce Australia's first hybrid car," Mr Yasuda said.

"The hybrid Camry - which will share some key design features with the HC-CV - will play a key role in bringing the future to the Australian automotive manufacturing sector.

"It is a future that uses less fuel while delivering better performance."

The hybrid Camry uses a four-cylinder petrol engine linked to a powerful electric motor.

It produces more power than a conventional petrol-engine vehicle while delivering better fuel economy.

Mr Yasuda said many industry commentators were urging carmakers to produce more fuel-efficient cars.

"Toyota is already the only local manufacturer producing a four-cylinder car in this country. We have been building Camry in this country - in Melbourne - for nearly 22 years.

"It's been Australia's best-selling medium car for 15 years - and it's our leading automotive export.

"Toyota also produces the most fuel-efficient Australian-made large six-cylinder sedan, the Aurion, in Melbourne.

"Our locally manufactured hybrid Camry will be launched early next year."

Contemporary hybrid design

Toyota Style Australia corporate manager Paul Beranger said Toyota has evolved the styling of its hybrid vehicles since the late 1990s.

"HC-CV is our expression of the contemporary hybrid sedan," he said.

The front of the car is characterised by expressive, sharp lines and taught surfaces. It echoes the latest Toyota Hybrid styling cues, with vertical fog lamps, larger lower opening and a streamlined upper grille.

"The crisp corners indicate aerodynamic efficiency, while the overall styling feel is efficient, yet dynamic," Mr Beranger said.

"The lower grille texture is a random pattern, inspired by forms found in nature, moving away from traditional constructed patterns," he said.

The "aero" theme continues along the side skirts, which flow into the rear diffuser, giving a sporty, yet lightweight and functional appearance. The rear spoiler enhances the visual appeal.

The headlights are symbolic of Toyota's hybrid image with a blue hue. They fuse technical elements with natural forms. Some lenses have a waterfall impression, while others are functional, lightweight and technical in appearance. The rear LED lamps, also with a blue hue, provide an unmistakable hybrid look.

Toyota logos on the car are also highlighted by a translucent blue hue. The satin chrome front grille, mirrors and rear boot-lid garnish add to the clean, crisp image.

The wheels are a combination of shear, overlayed surfaces and graphics.

The body colour is unique - a satin white pearl with subtle blue highlights to provide a serene, calm feeling. The paint allows intricate detailing and features to show through.

The interior uses contrasting coloured trim. Highlights of metallic blue have been applied asymmetrically to the seats in a wave-like graphic reminiscent of the Hybrid Synergy Drive logo.

The seat embossing echoes the exterior grille mesh with a tree bark-like pattern. White stitching adds a subtle, yet premium touch. Satin chrome accents tie in with the exterior and add to the tranquil environment.















[Source : TOYOTA]
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TURIN : February 23, 2009 - FIAT to present the new 500C, the original cabriolet version at Geneva in world preview.


Featuring an innovative softtop - a fully fledged window to the sky - the new 500C comes in the same size as the basic model (3.55 m x 1.65 m x 1.49 m) and the same three powerplants: the 1.3 liter 75 HP Multijet Turbodiesel coupled to a 5-speed manual transmission and the two 1.2 liter 69 HP and 1.4 liter 100 HP gasoline engines, available with either manual or robotized Dualogic transmission. Providing different features, all three engine types are generously sized, have a brilliant temperament and offer high performance based on sophisticated technology. Standard features include stubborn reliability and environmental friendliness.

Moreover, as proof of Fiat Automobiles commitment to ecology and sustainable mobility, the new 500C incorporates the innovative “Start&Stop” system, a device controlling momentary engine shutdown and subsequent reignition. To this end, at every stop when shifting to neutral and releasing the clutch, the engine is switched off and then restarted simply by selecting a gear.

Created by the Fiat Styling Center and manufactured at the Tichy plant in Poland, the 500C is of the “open source” design, implying the addition of new functions to a highly successful existing product. Indeed, the Fiat 500C incorporates all the strong points of the basic model, namely top-of-segment safety features, 4-adult seat habitability and generous luggage space combined with excellent loadability also with the soft top fully open, thanks to a clever parallelogram hinge device.

A highly original exercise in design, the softtop of the Fiat 500C stands out for its refined electrically operated linkage and engineering solutions of great quality and finish, such as the glass backlight and the built-in center high mounted stop light. Available in three colors (ivory, red and black), this original soft top will be matched with several bodywork color schemes, two of which have been conceived specifically for the new car, i.e. a brilliant Pearl Red and a special Warm Grey typical of sports supercars. Last but not least, thanks to the adoption of the innovative sliding softtop combined with a styling concept which retains all-round protection, the Fiat 500C offers a delightful ride in any season of the year. All told, its many special features make this new car one of the best turned out cabriolet models currently on offer in the city-car segment.

The 500C is further proof of Fiat's undisputed leadership in this vehicle class where continuous innovation ensures that its position as the industry's standard is maintained. In fact the car sets new levels of in terms of comfort and safety, engineering and appointments whilst maintaining that unique and inimitable "Italian style". A new cabriolet is born which gives great excitement and utmost driving pleasure, combining captivating lines with the performance of flexible, environment-friendly engines.







[Source : FIAT]
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TURIN : February 23, 2009 - A high performance concept of the new Alfa MiTo, the Alfa MiTo GTA, will be starring at this year’s Geneva International Motor Show in early March.



In line with the famous GTA (Gran Turismo Alleggerito) signature, (Alleggerito means reduced weight in Italian), the MiTo GTA Concept prioritises weight reduction, and the achievement of an optimum power-to-weight ratio.

Considerable work has gone into lowering the vehicle’s centre of gravity; thus certain components such as the tailgate spoiler, roof and mirror fairings are in carbon-fibre; while aluminium is used extensively in the braking system, suspension, and some parts of the chassis.

Under the bonnet, an exciting new petrol engine, very much in keeping with the pre-requisites of downsizing, environmental awareness, and the offer of high power and efficiency in return for low weight and optimised packaging, powers the new GTA Concept.


Designed by Fiat Powertrain Technologies and exploiting the vast experience gained in the production of Twin Spark and Alfa V6 road and race engines, the compact new petrol engine employs advanced technical solutions including direct injection, dual variable valve timing, state-of-the-art turbocharging and advanced electronic management systems to produce a remarkable 240 bhp from just 1,742 cc.

Under-floor aerodynamics have been a particular concern, while the entire car has been lowered by some 20mm. Front suspension employs new geometry with aluminium leading arms, while the rear suspension has all-new bushings, and the comprehensively revised chassis boasts an ‘active’ suspension system, (advanced damper control), which counteracts the transfer of load under acceleration, stiffening the rear end and maximising traction.

The suspension also interacts with the braking system and steering to obtain the most efficient control of vehicle dynamics, while a ‘Sky-Hook’ function ensures an excellent level of passenger comfort under conditions of everyday use.

[Source : ALFA ROMEO]
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Nissan Motor Co., facing its first loss in nine years, will shift production of some small cars sold overseas to Mexico as the surging yen erodes profits on vehicles exported from Japan.


"At ¥90 to the dollar we are losing money, so we have stopped production" of some models at home, Chief Financial Officer Alain Dassas said in an interview Wednesday in Tokyo. The company will begin shipping compacts to the Middle East from Mexico, he added.

Nissan, Japan's third-largest carmaker, plans to shift production of 130,000 vehicles to other countries over the next two fiscal years after the yen surged 23 percent in 2008.

The stronger yen and tumbling auto sales in the U.S. and Japan have forced Nissan, Toyota Motor Corp. and Honda Motor Co. to slash production and cut staff.

"We look at the yen every day," Dassas said. "If the yen stays at 90 to the dollar, then we have to think about something else" beyond the production shift.

Honda has said it may move research and development overseas and increase manufacturing abroad if the exchange rate stays below 90 to the dollar.

An exchange rate of between ¥100 and ¥110 to the dollar would allow Nissan to maintain more production in Japan, Dassas said.

Nissan produces models including the Tiida compact and Sentra sedan in Mexico.

Nissan's domestic production may drop as much as 20 percent to less than 1 million vehicles next fiscal year, the Nikkan Kogyo newspaper reported Friday, without citing sources.

The company's latest forecast estimates domestic production will drop 16 percent to 1.06 million vehicles in the fiscal year ending in March. The automaker is still planning for next year and cannot confirm whether output will fall, spokesman Mitsuru Yonekawa said.

The automaker may press ahead with construction of a factory in Chennai, India, even if 50-50 joint partner Renault SA quits the project, Dassas said. Nissan would reduce the plant's capacity if forced to go solo, he added. Renault Chief Financial Officer Thierry Moulonguet said last week the French carmaker may abandon the venture.

Nissan expects an operating loss of ¥180 billion ($1.91 billion) for the fiscal year ending in March. The company based its earnings forecast on exchange rates of 99.7 to the dollar and 141.9 to the euro. The strong yen will cut full-year operating profit by ¥60.9 billion.

[Source : Bloomberg]
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TOKYO : February 23, 2009 – Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (Honda Motor) announced that Takanobu Ito, currently the company's Senior Managing Director, will become the seventh President & Chief Executive Officer of Honda Motor effective in late June 2009. Takeo Fukui, the current President & CEO, will remain on the board and assume the post of Director and Advisor to Honda Motor. This management succession will occur following the final decision of the Honda Motor Board of Directors after the company's annual shareholders' meeting, scheduled for late June 2009.


Ito joined Honda in 1978, and began his career in its automobile research and development operations, principally as an engineer in the area of chassis design. Ito was in charge of developing the all-aluminum uni-body frame structure for the mid-engine NSX sports car that went on sale in 1990, a world's first for a production vehicle of any volume. Ito also took on responsibilities as the person-in-charge of developing a series of compact sedans for the Japanese market in the early 1990's.

From April 1998 to March 2000, Ito was stationed in the U.S. as Executive Vice President of Honda R&D Americas, Inc., where he became actively involved in the development of the Acura brand's first sport-utility vehicle, the MDX (which went on sale in the U.S. in October 2000).

In June 2000, Ito was appointed to the Board of Directors of Honda Motor, simultaneously gaining promotion to Managing Director of Honda R&D Co., Ltd. (Honda R&D). He subsequently became President and Director of Honda R&D in June 2003. Ito also took on a role in the area of manufacturing as General Manager of Honda's Suzuka Factory in April 2005.

In April 2007, Ito became Honda Motor's Chief Operating Officer of Automobile Operations and a Senior Managing Director from June of the same year.

From April 2009, he will again assume the top position of President and Director of Honda R&D, a position he will continue to hold concurrently after the successful appointment as President & CEO of Honda Motor expected in late June 2009.

Takeo Fukui has served as Honda Motor's President & CEO since assuming the position in June 2003. During the six years of Fukui's leadership, Honda was able to actively evolve its global manufacturing structure, notably the establishment of a U.S. automobile plant in Indiana and the decision to set up two manufacturing facilities - the Yorii and Ogawa plants - in Saitama, Japan.

Furthermore, Fukui enabled the company to make forays into new business areas, including the establishment of both the jet engine and aircraft businesses, and making a full-scale entry into the solar cell business with Honda's original next-generation solar cell. Also under Fukui's leadership, the company continued to demonstrate its leadership in reducing CO₂ emissions through both technology and product innovations. Honda's firm commitment to reduce CO₂ output on a global scale was underlined in 2006, when it announced company-wide reduction targets for CO₂ emitted from its product lineups as well as from its production lines. The realization of the all-new Insight as an affordable product was an outcome of Fukui's strong guidance, based on the belief that hybrid vehicles must become accessible to more people if the technology is to contribute to reductions in CO₂ output.

Fukui joined Honda as an engineer in 1969, and became a member of the project team that developed the Honda CVCC (Compound Vortex Controlled Combustion) engine. Fukui also has extensive experience in the company's motorcycle development and racing operations. In 1988, he became a member of the Honda Motor Board of Directors, subsequently assuming responsibilities as General Manager of the Suzuka Factory, President of Honda of America Mfg., Inc., President and Director of Honda R&D, and most recently, President & CEO of Honda Motor, a title he has held since June 2003.

[Source : HONDA]
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INGOLSTADT : February 22, 2009 - Dynamic, confident and stunning – the new A5 Cabriolet from Audi is emotionally evocative. The four-seater with the fabric top combines a distinctly sporty character with the fascination of open-top driving, refined comfort and a great everyday utility. Five efficient engines, an agile suspension and a wide range of high-end options make the new Audi the most attractive convertible in the mid-sized segment. Delivery will begin in the second quarter of 2009. Prices start at 37,300 euros for the entry-level 1.8 TFSI model with 118 kW (160 hp), which will follow somewhat later.



Crowning the new model series is the S5 Cabriolet. The letter “S” traditionally stands for supreme sportiness – for dynamics, performance and power, but also for amazing efficiency. Powering the S5 Cabriolet is a newly developed, supercharged three-liter V6 that pumps out 245 kW (333 hp) for superior performance.

Like all Audi convertibles, the open-top A5 also has a lightweight fabric top that endows it with a silhouette of dynamic elegance. The fully automatic top opens in just 15 seconds. Audi also offers an optional acoustic top with an intermediate layer of insulating foam that reduces wind noise almost to the sedan level.

When opened, the Audi A5 Cabriolet top folds down so effectively that very little trunk space is used up – leaving 320 liters (11.30 cubic ft) of unused storage volume, clearly the best value in its field of competitors. The soft top compartment lowers automatically when the top is opened. Equally useful is the fold-down rear seat backrest and the large pass-through between the luggage compartment and the interior, which increases the storage volume to a generous 750 liters (26.49 cubic ft).

Rounding out the comfortable character of the four-seater’s interior are automatic seatbelt extenders for the front seats and the optionally available head-level heating. A special coating on the optional leather seats reduces solar heating. The A5 Cabriolet seats four comfortably. The refined ambience combines with perfect ergonomics to convey an atmosphere of sporty elegance. Ultra-high-strength steels and selective reinforcements of the body ensure high rigidity and crash safety.


The A5 Cabriolet is being launched with three gasoline engines and two diesel engines ranging between 132 kW (180 hp) and 195 kW (265 hp). All five power plants are fueled via direct fuel injection; four of them use turbocharging. Available powertrains include a six-speed manual, the continuously variable multitronic and the new, lightning-fast seven-speed S tronic. In addition to front-wheel drive, Audi also offers quattro permanent all-wheel drive for the higher-power engines. The innovative sport differential, which variably distributes power between the rear wheels, is optionally available for even greater dynamics and driving pleasure.


Fascinating dynamics: Audi drive select

The perfect addition to this technology package is the Audi drive select vehicle dynamics system, which enables the driver to chose among three different engine maps controlling the characteristics of the fuel feed, the shifting points of the seven-speed S tronic or the multitronic, and the boost provided by the servotronic steering system. If the car is equipped with the MMI operating interface, a fourth, freely programmable map is available. Additional technologies available include adaptive control of the shock absorbers and variable-ratio dynamic steering.

The new Audi A5 Cabriolet features a rich array of equipment in addition to the fully automatic top, including an automatic climate-control system and a CD audio system. Highlights from the long list of options include the innovative driver assist systems and the latest generation MMI operating interface, which offers many attractive navigation and entertainment features.

As the dynamic top-of-the-line model of the new production series, the S5 Cabriolet occupies a very special position. Its three-liter TFSI – a V6 with mechanical supercharger – unfolds its 245 kW (333 hp) and 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft) of torque with impressive results: It responds tenaciously to the throttle and delivers excellent driving performance. The quattro drivetrain, a sport suspension with 18-inch wheels and a number of special equipment details underscore the athletic character of the Audi S5 Cabriolet.


Audi A5 and S5 Cabriolet - Preliminary Technical Data

Engines

• Five engines between 132 kW (180 hp) and 195 kW (265) hp for the A5 Cabriolet, 3.0 TFSI with 245 kW (333 hp) in the S5 Cabriolet
  
• All engines with direct fuel injection
  
• Turbocharging for the TDI and the four-cylinder gasoline engines
  
• 3.0 TFSI with supercharging - Exemplary efficiency combined with superior performance

Transmission

• Depending on the engine, manual, multitronic or seven-speed S tronic
  
• quattro all-wheel drive for the more powerful versions, with an optional
  
• sport differential for the variable distribution of power to the rear wheels

Suspension

• Lightweight suspension, balanced axle load distribution
  
• 17-inch aluminum wheels, large brakes
  
• Optional Audi drive select dynamic control system,
  
• adaptive shock absorber control and dynamic steering available as options

Convertible top

• Lightweight fabric top with very good noise insulation
  
• Wind deflector standard, can be stored in the spare tire well in the trunk
  
• Automatic open/close drive standard, acoustic top optional
  
• Top can be opened/closed at up to 50 km/h (31.07 mph)
  
• Variable, self-retracting top compartment that lowers automatically when the top is opened.

Body

• Sporty, elegant design with harmonious lines
  
• Large luggage compartment even with the top open, large pass-through to the interior

Equipment

• Wide range of convenience equipment, automatic seatbelt extenders standard
  
• Advanced assistant systems and features such as head-level heating optional
  
• Latest-generation MMI with innovative navigation and infotainment features

Click to see the first official released of 2010 Audi A5/S5 Cabriolet
[Source : AUDI]
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Arriving in the Project Kahn Rolls Royce Phantom at the Oscars or at a casino in Monte Carlo would ensure everyone will know someone special is about make a grand entrance; this 'Pearl White' beauty has a richness befitting a car of this exclusive nature.


The foremost features of the Rolls Royce Phantom are exquisite to say the least. The wheel has been designed to take the original centre cap and has a meticulous diamond polish in each spoke: Our new 9.5 X 22" Kahn Silver Mist Rolls Royce wheel is subtle, and provides OE fitment with superior style - this effortlessly compliments the Rolls Royce Phantom.

Furthermore, a complete bespoke interior design service is available to suit individual tastes along with clear side repeaters and black piano facias.
As the UK's leading automotive design house, Project Kahn recognises the importance of dynamic cutting edge designs whilst staying true to the original form. Our elegant and sculpted Rolls Royce Phantom evolved through skilled artistic innovation, state-of-the art manufacturing and materials technology. Rolls Royce owners will testify to the exuberance of passion and sumptuous beauty of A Kahn Design.

Owning the Rolls Royce DHC pertains to a level of bespoke authenticity that will bring back memories of the time honoured Rolls Royce tradition while providing up to date European styling keeping with the Rolls Royce ethos.

Rolls-Royce doesn't need to advertise. Maybe it's because there is simply no alternative. The Phantom has the pluto-matic market all to itself; a first cousin only to silence, and manners, and breeding. One thing for sure: the Pearl White Phantom certainly communicates wealth.







[Source : KAHN Design]
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• This top model will debut at the Geneva Auto Show
  
• Direct gasoline injection and a turbocharger deliver far more than 300 bhp
  
• Top-notch chassis, big brakes, and quattro drivetrain

INGOLSTADT : February 20, 2009 – Audi is once again producing a five-cylinder powerhouse: the Audi TT RS will be unveiled to the world at the Geneva Auto Show. Its turbocharged 2.5-liter engine produces well above 300 bhp. It also delivers explosive acceleration, driving delight, and unrivalled sound.


A legend is reborn. After all, powerful five-cylinder gasoline engines have a long legacy at Audi. And the turbocharged direct-fuel-injection engine in the TT RS is the new torchbearer of this dynamic tradition. It enables the TT RS to perform extraordinary feats. For example, it needs nowhere near five seconds to reach 100 km/h (62.14 mph); overtaking is child’s play; and 250 km/h (155.34 mph) is the limited top speed only on paper.

The quattro permanent all-wheel drive system, a sophisticated chassis, and stupendous brakes keep a tight rein on the power. All in all, the compact TT RS – with its lightweight and largely aluminum body constructed as per the Audi Space Frame principle – is a driving machine to be reckoned with.







[Source : AUDI]
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STUTTGART : February 20, 2009 - Porsche has just released more information on the new Cayenne S Hybrid that will finally launch in 2010. Instead of the older 3.6L normally aspirated V6, it will now use the new supercharged and direct injected 3.0L found in the new Audi S4 and A6. The 333 hp V6 is paired up with a 52 hp electric motor sandwiched between the engine and 8-speed automatic transmission.


Porsche shared more information about the Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid, which will debut in 2010. Using a parallel full hybrid design with the electric motor between the combustion engine and the transmission, Porsche engineers have been able to drive at speeds up to 86 mph without at all using the combustion engine.

This engineering achievement allows the Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid to roll freely - or 'coast' -- at highway speeds without the combustion engine on, greatly minimizing engine emissions and fossil fuel consumption. This differs from current hybrid concepts that deliver benefits mainly in city traffic. Porsche, in cooperation with Volkswagen, opted for the parallel full hybrid design as it also significantly improves acceleration, a concept that matches the company's philosophy of offering outstanding performance and efficiency. It also fits in the current Cayenne design with minimal alterations and without affecting interior space or luggage capacity.

When it comes to market in 2010, the Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid is expected to emit some 20 percent less C02 than comparable combustion engine vehicles with similar power output. Covering a 0-to-100 km/h sprint in just 6.8 seconds, it earns its 'S' designation by delivering V8 performance and four-cylinder efficiency, all while complying with the Ultra Low Emission Vehicle II (ULEVII) emission standards.

The Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid uses a supercharged Audi 3.0-liter V6 engine with Direct Fuel Injection (DFI), 333 horsepower and 324 lb-ft of torque from 2,900 to 5,300 rpm. It is mated with 52-horsepower three-phase synchronous electric motor that produces up to 221 lb-ft of torque and also acts as an alternator, and the combined power units are joined to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Also on board is a 154-lb. no-maintenance 38 kW nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery. Measuring 13.7" x 24.9" x 11.5", it fits in the spare tire well, thus not compromising luggage capacity.


The Hybrid Manager is the Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid's "Heart"

The heart of these technologies is the powerful Hybrid Manager, which requires some 20,000 data parameters to operate (compared to a conventional engine control unit that operates on less than one-third of the data). Since a parallel full hybrid operates in three classic hybrid modes - power generated by the combustion engine and electric motor, power generated by the combustion engine only, and power generated by the electric motor only - the Hybrid Manager's main function is to seamlessly coordinate these modes to deliver optimal performance and efficiency.

With a clutch being the key connection between the combustion engine and the electric motor, the Hybrid Manager has the tough job of providing smooth but quick switching among the three hybrid modes without delay or a noticeable transition felt by the driver and passengers. For example, the Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid can motor along solely on electric power for up to 1.2 miles with the combustion engine off, and the Hybrid Manager will fire up the engine as soon as the driver presses the accelerator, increase engine speed appropriately and engage the clutch to transfer power to the transmission without the driver or passengers noticing what is happening. And, it does this within just 300 milliseconds.

When driving with just the combustion engine, the Hybrid Manager also will ensure the engine is operating as efficiently as possible in reference to its load. It switches the electric motor to an alternator mode, so the fuel consumed by the combustion engine not only efficiently powers the Cayenne but also generates electricity that can be 'parked' in the NiMH battery. Finally, when the driver presses the brake pedal, the Hybrid Manager feeds as much energy as possible from the electric motor (again running as an alternator) to the battery.

The Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid also has electrically driven ancillary components such as the air conditioning compressor and the power steering pump.

Unlike conventional Cayenne SUVs, the Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid uses an eight-speed automatic unit. Porsche engineers added to the conventional transmission oil pump a new electrical drive pump to shift gears smoothly and efficiently also in electric mode. Top speed comes in sixth gear, and the two higher gears serve to further reduce engine speed to enhance fuel economy. Eighth gear, for example, enables the driver to 'coast' along without the combustion engine at speeds up to 86 mph.

Porsche expects the Cayenne S Hybrid to consume less than nine liters of fuel per 100 kilometers in the New European Driving Cycle. EPA fuel economy figures are not yet available.

A similar hybrid system will find its way into the new Porsche Panamera four-door gran turismo sometime following Porsche's fourth model line debut in late summer 2009.




[Source : PORSCHE]
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After 20 years of foreign ownership, the future of Saab Automobile is once again in Swedish hands. On Friday, the Vänersborg District Court approved the request for a reorganisation and restructuring which Saab’s representative submitted earlier in the morning.


“Today is the beginning of a new chapter in Saab’s history”, says Jan Åke Jonsson, Managing Director of Saab Automobile. “We are now recreating Saab Automobile as an independent unit. The road ahead will not be easy. Many have already suffered considerably as a result of the crisis in the automobile industry and sacrifices will be a part of our future, but after a period of tough decisions we will have laid the foundations for a new beginning.

“Saab has a trademark which is well established both in Sweden and internationally. We have a documented efficient production and we have a strong range of models in development. That is why we have chosen this road. The future will be tough, but the commitment which exists to support the Swedish automobile industry and Saab will help us in the arduous tasks which lie ahead of us.”

The work of piloting the new Saab Automobile into the future will be led by a group of three persons: the lawyer Guy Lofalk, whom the District Court has appointed as Administrator, the Managing Director Jan Åke Jonsson, and the international reorganisation expert, Stephen Taylor.

The purpose of the company reorganisation is to create a short-term stability that will make it possible to develop a long-term solution for Saab. The Swedish Company Reorganization Act says that an application shall not be approved unless there is reasonable cause to assume that the purpose of the reorganisation will be achieved. In today’s decision, the District Court has found that such conditions exist.

“I can already say that I am impressed by the competence within Saab”, says Guy Lofalk, “and with three strong automobile models just around the corner it would be a waste not to try to find a long-term way forward.”

[Source : SAAB via NEWSPRESSS]
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BOLOGNESE : February 20, 2009 - Lamborghini has announced its new Lamborghini Academy dates for 2009. With courses open to all sports car enthusiasts as well as Lamborghini owners, the track driving schools provide an extraordinary opportunity to experience the full potential of Lamborghini cars, alongside the Italian super sports car manufacturer’s professional instructors.


The Track Academy course provides an entry into the Lamborghini Academy world. Held at various European race tracks from Spring 2009 onwards, participants’ driving skills are improved alongside a professional driver instructor, while exploring the full potential of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4.
The Advanced Academy is the top level programme, and concentrates on optimum control and performance on the race track, fully supported by a professional in-vehicle telemetry system. Driving is undertaken in the Gallardo LP 560-4 and the Murciélago LP 640: the fastest and most extreme super sports car in its class.

All classes include technical and safety briefings, followed by handling and performance exercises, with instruction on how to get the ‘ultimate kick’ from race track driving! Participants improve their handling and feel of Lamborghini’s permanent four-wheel drive cars, learn to manage understeer and oversteer; practice manoeuvres with and without ABS and ESP; master ‘controlled drifting’ and, of course, find the ideal ‘racing line’ on track.

As a reminiscence of this experience each individual participant gets his own in-car-video with footage of the whole driving day as well as a photo CD of all the action of the day on the race track.

Lamborghini Academy courses start from 3,900.00 euro, including accommodation, cars at the race track and all driving instruction, but excluding travel.

[Source : Lamborghini]
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MUNICH : February 19, 2009 - The 2009 Superbike World Championship promises to be more exciting than ever, with BMW Motorrad Motorsport making its debut in the ultra-competitive series and taking on no less than six other manufacturers, four Japanese and two European.


Although this is BMW's first attempt in World Superbikes, their racing heritage goes back 86 years, starting with their R 32 motorcycle in 1923. Since then BMWs have raced successfully on the Isle of Man and at other world-famous racetracks and have enjoyed many successes. The last success of the official BMW factory team was Walter Zeller's runner-up place in the 1956 World Championship. BMW officially returned to roadracing in 2007 with the HP2 Sports Boxer taking part in the Endurance Championship 24 hour classics in 2007 and 2008.

BMW's first ever 'Superbike' success took place at Daytona, USA, in 1976, when American Steve McLaughlin won the AMA Championship Superbike race in a thrilling photo-finish with team-mate Reg Pridmore. Both were riding R 90 S BMWs prepared by Butler & Smith, BMW's American importers. Back then the 'Superbike' class was a support race to the main event, but nine years later the first ideas for a Superbike World Championship (a world championship for production-based motorcycles) began to grow. The series was born in 1988 and since then has become the hallmark for close-fought, competitive racing, without sacrificing any of its friendly paddock atmosphere. It may be all-out combat on the track, but off it, it has an atmosphere unmatched by any other world championship.


BMW Motorrad have a very long history, but they are the 'new boys' of the Superbike World Championship. The company has decided to enter the series at, without a doubt, the hardest and most competitive time in its 21-year history. Any new manufacturer joining the series is going to face a tough time and BMW are under no illusions about the challenges ahead. BMW are entering World Superbike because it is a championship where fans and customers identify with the brand and the bikes. And fans will not have long to wait for the S 1000 RR roadbike from which the racebike is derived: it will make its public debut in early summer 2009.









[Source : BMW]
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RUSSELSHEIM, Germany : February 19, 2009 - Hyundai has revealed the first picture of the new i20 three-door, ahead of its official unveiling at the Geneva motor show on March 3rd.


Building on the success of the recently launched Hyundai i20 five-door, the new body style will broaden the i20’s appeal to the fastest-growing sector of the car market in Europe.


Positioned between the successful i10 and i30 models, the i20 three-door shares many of its styling features with the five-door. In fact the front and rear remains unchanged, but the distinctive crease lines that run along each side are enhanced by the longer front doors and the sporty, upswept shape of the rear-side window.

Built on the same 2.525mm wheelbase and weighing 10-kilograms less than the i20 five-door, the new model offers an equally well proportioned exterior and spacious interior that will comfortably accommodate adult passengers in the front and rear seats.

The larger front doors create a wide entry aperture, and Hyundai’s quick-release memory seats with walk-in functionality provide easy access to and from the rear. The system enables the front-seat backrests to be tipped and the whole seat to slide forwards. This simple-to-use system returns the front seat to the originally selected position without the need for readjustment.

Safety is always at the forefront for Hyundai and the i20 has an extensive list of active and passive equipment. This includes six airbags on all models – front, side and curtain – as standard, plus active head-restraints.

Hyundai expects i20 buyers will make the 1.2-litre petrol engine – dubbed ‘Kappa’ – the best-selling power plant in the range. The new, all-alloy unit combines miserly fuel consumption with low CO₂ emissions to produce a compelling package with exceptionally low running costs.

Kappa is the latest example of the company’s expertise in developing lightweight, low-NVH, super-efficient engines. With a displacement of just 1,248cc, Kappa unit develops an impressive 78PS and a class-leading torque figure of 119Nm endowing the i20 with responsive acceleration and excellent driveability.

[Source : HYUNDAI]
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GOODWOOD : February 20, 2009 - Rolls-Royce Motor Cars will unveil its latest experimental car, called 200EX, The car will be revealed by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ Chairman, Ian Robertson at the Geneva Motor Show on 3 March 2009. 200EX is a design study for a contemporary four-door saloon and shows the direction for RR4, a new model series from Rolls-Royce due for production in 2010.


PHILOSOPHY

Experimental models have always played a significant role in the history of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, from the first — 1EX, built in 1919 — to the most recent — 101EX, built in 2006. Unlike a concept car, the experimental models developed by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars have always been fully functioning vehicles, residing in a tangible world of wood, leather and metals rather than clay and foam. EX cars offer designers and engineers the opportunity for real-world innovation and have been used to showcase new components and engineering techniques as well as exterior and interior designs. “Modern automotive engineering is a balance of creativity, innovation and application. 200EX is an opportunity to assess these new ideas”, explains Helmut Riedl, Director of Engineering.

100EX was the first experimental car unveiled after Rolls-Royce Motor Cars was relaunched under BMW Group ownership in 2003. Revealed at the Geneva motor show in 2004, the two-door, four-seat convertible was built to mark 100 years of Rolls-Royce motor car design and engineering. Just two years later, 101EX was presented, which explored modern coupé design. Both of these cars inspired production models that not only closely resemble their EX progenitors but have also redefined luxury motoring in the modern age.

Following on from this success, the same group of designers and engineers has created 200EX, itself pointing the way to RR4, a new Rolls-Royce model scheduled for production in 2010. The brief for 200EX? To create a modern, lithe and dynamic Rolls-Royce that bears all the hallmarks of the great cars that have gone before it: effortless performance, unparalleled refinement, exquisite quality and confident design.

DESIGN

“Alluring, inviting, approachable — this car captivates with each encounter” — Chief Designer, Ian Cameron

200EX has a dynamic edge to its styling and is noticeably less formal than previous models. Its size, style and expression broaden the appeal of the car, making it more appropriate for a wider range of circumstances. “200EX is a touring saloon with more than a little panache and perhaps more bravado than one might have expected from Rolls-Royce Motor Cars,” says Cameron. “What you see is a modern car that is immediately recognisable as a true Rolls-Royce, even from angles that obscure the grille and Spirit of Ecstasy. Design elements such as the elevated prow, long bonnet, short front overhang, sharply raked A-pillar and elegant tail give 200EX an air of informal presence — powerful but unobtrusive.”

The exterior design is dominated by large, uninterrupted surfaces, while finely sculptured horizontal lines add definition and geometric precision. In combination, the upward-sweeping sill line and low-cut roof create a powerful profile. The tapered rear is enhanced by powerful shoulders and flanks that draw in sharply, narrowing as they flow from the rear wings to the tail-lights.

The rear-hinged coach doors give the car a natural presence and sense of theatre. Revived in 2003 on the Phantom, this signature feature lends added functionality and style to the design. Opening through a generous 83 degrees, the coach doors offer the widest rear access in the car industry as well as providing the warmest of welcomes to those about to step inside.

At the front, a pair of LED headlamps flank the latest evolution of the world’s most famous grille. “We wanted this to be less reminiscent of the traditional ‘Parthenon’ style and more like a jet intake,” says Ian Cameron. The sides of the intake have been curved inwards and the vanes set back into the opening. It’s a more dynamic form that moves on from the design first seen on the Phantom Drophead Coupé.

The exterior of 200EX is finished in Darkest Tungsten, which contrasts with the silver satin finish applied to the bonnet and A-pillar. Seven-spoke, 20-inch wheels complete the visual impact of the exterior.

Within 200EX, Interior Designer Alan Sheppard has accomplished a contemporary atmosphere, incorporating the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars principles of fine materials and peerless comfort. The space is filled with natural light, which brings in a real sense of the outside world. However, substantial doors and a high shoulder line ensure that occupants feel cosseted and protected. In the rear, the intimate ambience of the lounge seat is emphasised by its position behind the C-pillar, heightening the sense of privacy.

Naturally, the finest materials have been used. Elegant, frosted lamps and chrome door handles feature, while details include traditional violin key switches, eyeball air vents, opaque dials and refined instrumentation.

“As with any Rolls-Royce, detail is crucial,” says Alan Sheppard. “We want the lasting impression for owners to be that their car was made just for them by someone skilled and caring.”

The dashboard has been kept deliberately clear; it is spacious in its design and has an intuitive layout. The controls are neatly sculptured, with more important functions emphasised by accents of chrome. The soft light of the instrument panel glows through the familiar black-rimmed steering wheel, which itself incorporates a number of violin keys as well as an ergonomic roller-ball control.

The interior of 200EX is finished in supple, natural grain Crème Light leather, with Cornsilk carpets and cashmere blend headliner. The featured wood veneer is Santos Palissander, chosen for its contemporary look and striking grain.

“200EX is a modern execution of timeless Rolls-Royce elegance, breaking with some areas of tradition but retaining the core values that make our marque unique,” says Chief Executive Officer Tom Purves. “We expect the more informal, agile design to broaden the appeal of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, attracting people who appreciate its fusion of refinement, new technology and contemporary style.”

200EX TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

• No. of doors/seats : 4/5
  
• Vehicle length : 5,399 mm.
  
• Vehicle width : 1,948 mm.
  
• Vehicle height : 1,550 mm.
  
• Wheelbase : 3,295 mm.
• 
  
• Engine: new V12
• 
  
• Wheel and tyre size: 20 inch, 255/45 R 20 front and 285/40 R 20 rear

[Source : ROLLS-ROYCE]
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BOTTROP : February 19, 2009 - BRABUS G V12 S Biturbo: The world’s most powerful off-roader comes from BRABUS. It is built by hand based on the latest Mercedes G-Class. The exclusive five-door is powered by a BRABUS SV12 S displacement engine. Like all special models of BRABUS – recognized by the German Vehicle Registration Agency as a vehicle manufacturer – the BRABUS G V12 S Biturbo comes with a comprehensive luxury package. The ultra-powerful 4x4 starts at 379,000 Euros.



The BRABUS SV12 S engine is based on the V12 Biturbo engine from the latest Mercedes S 600. Before being implanted in the engine bay of the G-Class, displacement of the three-valve engine is increased from 5.5 to 6.3 liters (336 to 384 cubic inches) using a special crankshaft with longer stroke, larger cylinders and larger bore. In addition, the cylinder heads are re-machined and fitted with special camshafts.

The engine peripherals were upgraded with larger turbochargers, an optimized intercooling system and a stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with free-flow metal catalysts. The exahust was custom-developed for the G-Class and features dual chrome-plated tailpipes that exit in front of the rear wheels on the left and right side. New precision mapping for the engine electronics coordinate the perfect interaction of all new components. The results are an exemplary smooth-running engine and maximum power yield while meeting the strict limits set by the EURO IV emission norm.


In the G-Class the BRABUS S V12 S displacement engine produces 700 hp (690 bhp) / 515 kW at 5,100 rpm. The turbocharged twelve-cylinder engine delivers its peak torque of 1,320 Nm (973 lb-ft) at 2,100 rpm. In the car, the peak torque is electronically limited to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft).

The BRABUS G V12 S Biturbo offers acceleration performance almost unimaginable for a true off-roader: Combined with a special five-speed automatic transmission and permanent four-wheel drive the exclusive SUV catapults itself from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.3 seconds. Top speed is limited electronically to 240 km/h (150 mph). Without the self-imposed limit the high-tech G-Class model could reach 260 km/h (163 mph).

This superior performance necessitates the use of custom-tailored BRABUS Monoblock wheels. Below the subtle fender flares is room for Monoblock light-alloy wheels with diameters between 20 and 22 inches, mounted with high-performance tires from Pirelli or YOKOHAMA. The forged BRABUS Monoblock VI 10.5Jx21 light-alloys are shod with size 295/40 R 21 tires front and back. BRABUS offers a wide selection of ten-inch wide wheels in the five different Monoblock VI, E, G, Q and S designs with a diameter of 22 inches.

For optimal handling BRABUS equips the special model G V12 S Biturbo with a comfortable custom suspension. To keep the incredible performance safely in check at all times the BRABUS high-performance brake system comes standard.


The body of the BRABUS G V12 S Biturbo is distinguished by sporty yet elegant aerodynamic-enhancement components. The BRABUS front apron with its LED daytime running lights below the main headlights lends the 4x4 an even more striking face. The rear is customized with the BRABUS rear bumper.

The BRABUS designers have developed special caps for the standard running boards of the Mercedes G-Class. They add some visual pizzazz to the G-Class and for added practicality feature integrated LED lights activated by the key fob or by opening a door. They illuminate the running boards in the dark.

The custom interior of the BRABUS G V12 S Biturbo is highly exclusive as well: It includes an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel, a speedometer with 280-km/h scale (175 mph), stainless-steel scuff plates with illuminated BRABUS logo and a handcrafted BRABUS fully leather interior made from especially soft and breathable BRABUS Mastik leather.


Upon customer request BRABUS transforms the SUV into fully functional all-terrain office on wheels or can integrate a custom-tailored high-tech multimedia system with state-of-the-art communication technology, DVD changer, DVBT TV tuner, game console and eight-inch LCD screens in the back of the front headrests. The sound in the rear compartment is reproduced by infrared headphones.



[Source : BRABUS]
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SCHWABACH, Germany – February 19, 2009: A catalyst is a chemical reaction accelerant and can be found in every modern car. But where to find a biochemical emotion accelerant? In the incredible cabrios by AC Schnitzer. Open the top as soon as the weather turns fine, and enjoy a daily dose of endorphins. The tuning house has refined the 1-, 3- and 6-series for the senses, and provides a special feeling for spring. Unfiltered by panels and glass, the crescendo of the AC Schnitzer exhaust system hits the ear directly, and creates goose-pimples with every acceleration. With a performance upgrade from Aachen on board too, you'll be in raptures - every press on the pedal is rewarded with a perceptible increase in wind speed.



Up to 265 kW / 360 HP from the 3.0 litre turbo petrol engine in the 1- and 3-series cabrios unleashes a real hurricane. For the 6-series however, AC Schnitzer presents the power-laden 302 kW / 411 HP 5.1 litre engine, which makes light work of even the big cabrio. Infinite torque is provided by the AC Schnitzer diesel power upgrades. The twin turbo of the 123d, after its extra "energising", delivers 177 kW / 240 HP instead of the standard 150 kW / 204 HP. The six-cylinder diesels of the 335d and 635d (standard 210 kW / 286 HP) are also coaxed into delivering up to 228 kW / 310 HP. Power kits are also available for many other variants, but whichever vehicle and engine you choose: fitting the AC Schnitzer suspension brings unmissable benefits.


With an open top, spirited driving on twisting country roads is a special pleasure, and nothing improves this pleasure like the spring-damper combinations from the hands of AC Schnitzer Engineering Director Manfred Wollgarten. Because the suspension genius personally checks all components on the North Loop of the Nürburgring. And because of course you don't always drive the cabrio at high speed, but sometimes like to linger over a ice at the nearest café, the visual impression must of course be right.

AC Schnitzer offers the right aerodynamic package for all models, together with further accessories for your enjoyment on the road. In the end, an open-top vehicle gives plenty of opportunities for the driver to turn every passing reflection in the shop window into his personal catwalk. Soon he'll be able to admire not only the 1-, 3- and 6-series in AC Schnitzer outfit, but also the new Mini Cabrio and the new Z4.

[Source : AC Schnitzer via Auto Channel] continue reading »

• Hyundai concept reveals dynamic new look for compact SUVs
  
• First sight of new 1.6-litre GDi turbo four-cylinder petrol engine
  
• Eco-friendly engine emits just 149 g/km of CO₂

OFFENBACH : February 19, 2009 - A sensational concept car will be the highlight of Hyundai’s stand at the Geneva motor show. The ix-onic, which makes its world premiere at the 79th Salon International de L’Automobile on March 3rd, introduces a whole new look for Hyundai’s compact SUVs and is packed with technology which make it more fuel efficient than some superminis.


Designed to assertive but not aggressive, the ix-onic (pronounced “ik-sonnik”) combines dynamic styling with an environmentally-friendly power train and thoughtful everyday utility. It creates a vehicle that will change the way consumers think about compact crossover vehicles.


Hyundai’s design team in Rüsselsheim, Germany created the concept with European consumers in mind. With an overall length of 4,400mm, the 1,850mm-wide and 1,650mm-high ix-onic has an imposing stance and road presence but takes up little more space on the road than a C-segment hatchback.

Key attributes of Hyundai’s ‘dynamic sculpture’ design philosophy are the athleticism and sophistication that ix-onic demonstrates through its dynamic and flowing lines. These are emphasised by specially developed, high-contrast exterior paint. Employing an advanced-effect pigment, the innovative paint gives the car’s skin a brilliant shine.

The hexagonal grille is a further evolution of the style introduced on the 2006 Genus concept car and developed for its appearance on the i-mode concept in 2008. The headlamps feature innovative LED daytime running lights which move down electrically whenever the ‘dipped beam’ is switched on.

The profile of ix-onic features a dynamic glass line and a sports car-like theme with a muscular, double-zigzag treatment for the wheel arches that wrap around the 21-inch polished alloy wheels. Unusually, the concave sills have a wedge-shaped profile which extends rearwards and wraps around into the rear bumper. The sills and bumper are finished in a contrasting colour, with an aluminium garnish that echoes the trim in the door handles to enhance the perception of premium quality.

With high-mounted tail lamps, multi-surfaced glass and a sculpted bumper, the rear of ix-onic also incorporates ‘dynamic design’ elements. The rear lamp clusters feature a grille mesh inspired by nature, while the rear bumper also neatly incorporates the dual, polished aluminium exhaust tailpipes.

The rear window has been designed and produced by Hyundai in close cooperation with the QarmaQ-partner SABIC Innovative Plastics. Using Lexan high-performance plastics instead of conventional glass enabled the designers to give the rear window a much more three-dimensional shape. On each side of the rear window two vertical spoilers are integrated to reduce aerodynamic drag. The upper part of the window features a strongly concave shape to make it possible to integrate the roof spoiler in the rear window.

Inside, the five-seater ix-onic offers a commanding view of the road and evokes an adventurous ambience that is also laid-back and relaxing.

An X-shaped visual theme is repeated across numerous areas of the cabin, with embossed leather to accentuate key areas while light-alloy magnesium accents provide flashes of visual brilliance. The sleek shapes of the interior are outlined with ‘ice blue’ seams that replicate the colour of both the ribbed ice blue floor carpet, which contains a high percentage of natural cashmere wool, and the exterior.

Shapely seats feature centre panels trimmed in breathable fabric with attractive and functional cushion side bolsters, plus additional lateral support for occupants’ shoulders – all trimmed in contrasting magnesium grey.

Mounted much higher than usual in the doors, the audio speakers present occupants with a true and highly detailed, top-quality sound reproduction. The interior rear-view mirror has a ‘blind spot’ warning light that alerts the driver to other road users in close proximity.

Beneath its sensational exterior, the ix-onic’s power train is equipped with a 170PS, 1.6-litre GDi turbocharged, four-cylinder petrol engine, with ISG (Idle Stop & Go) technology and a double-clutch six-speed transmission. Power is transferred to the road by an intelligent four-wheel drive system fine-tuned to deliver outstanding on-road driving dynamics, together with significant off-road ability. The next-generation, eco-friendly engine emits just 149 g/km of CO₂, an impressive figure for an SUV and comparable with conventional hatchbacks and superminis.


[Source : HYUNDAI]
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MILTON KEYNES : February 21, 2009 - Škoda has unveiled the first official photographs of the Fabia Scout. The new addition to the Scout family will make its world debut at this year's Geneva Motor Show.



The design of the brand new Scout includes distinct features and attractive protective elements, giving this functional and economical car, new emotional dimensions. A uniquely-shaped bumper and plastic cladding give this new version of Škoda's popular estate enhanced, robust features. In addition, protective elements on the sides of the body and a silver roof-rails underline the Fabia Scout's bold shape.

Four engines will be available for the new Fabia Scout – two petrol and two diesel units. The petrol engines will consist of a 1.4 litre, 63 kW (85bhp) engine with fuel consumption of 6.5L/100km (43.5mpg) and 1.6 litre, 77 kW (105bhp) with a fuel consumption of 6.9L/100km (40.9mpg), available with a six-speed transmission.

The two diesel engines are a 1.4 litre, 59 kW (80bhp) engine with fuel consumption of 4.6L/100km (61.4mpg) and the top-of-the-range 1.9-litre engine offering 77 kW (105bhp) and fuel consumption of 4.9L/100km (57.7mpg).



Scout-specific upholstery brings the Scout styling to the interior along with floor mats bearing the Scout logo. The Scout logo also appears on the vehicle's tailgate. Other Scout features include the pedals with stainless steel surfaces and anti-slip, heavy-duty rubber elements.

The Fabia Scout is fitted with lightweight ‘Arktos’ alloy wheels designed especially for this model. It is fitted with sixteen-inch alloy wheels as standard and customers can choose seventeen-inch wheels of the same design as an option. Other distinctive features of the Fabia Scout include fog lamps (with corner design) and tinted windows.

Extending the very popular Scout portfolio, the vehicle will be available from late May this year.

[Source : SKODA]
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BANGKOK : February 19, 2009 - Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has delivered its first car to Thailand. Dr Nikorn Hongsrisook, a prominent Thai businessman based in Bangkok, received his Phantom Extended Wheelbase car from Rolls-Royce Asia-Pacific Regional Director, Colin Kelly.


At the handover ceremony, Colin Kelly said, ”It is a great pleasure to be able to deliver this first car into Thailand to such an appreciative customer and automotive enthusiast. We look forward to being able to deliver more Rolls-Royce cars to customers in Thailand, in a market where we believe there is growing demand for ultra-luxury motor cars.”


Dr Nikorn Hongsrisook, President of Gems Gallery International Manufacturer Ltd, added, “As a person who is truly fascinated with super-luxury cars, Phantom is a very special car which I have always aspired to own. I feel very proud to have become the owner of the first Phantom in Thailand”.

Dr Nikorn specified his bespoke car to feature a Diamond Black exterior and an interior finished with piano black wood and contrast stitching. Amongst other Bespoke features, the car comes with the award-winning starlight headlining, an optional feature that incorporates 800 fine fiber optics in the ceiling, creating the impression of a star-filled night sky.

Dr Nikorn’s car was built at the state-of-the-art Rolls-Royce Motor Cars manufacturing facility in Goodwood, West Sussex, England.

[Source : Rolls-Royce]
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STUTTGART : February 19, 2009 - Two world debuts mark the highlights from Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show: the 911 GT3 and the Cayenne Diesel. Presented for the first time to the public, these two models impressively symbolise the particular fortes of Porsche’s model range focusing on both tradition and the future – dynamic performance and superior economy.


The new 911 GT3 is once again more powerful, faster, crisper and more dynamic than its predecessor, improving above all in its two core features performance and driving dynamics. Maximum output of the proven normal-aspiration six-cylinder is now 435 bhp (320 kW), up 20 bhp over the former model. Performance on the road improves accordingly, with the new GT3 now accelerating to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds and achieving a top speed of 312 km/h or 193 mph.

High-tech aerodynamic modifications add to the new look of the GT3 and increase the car’s down-forces most substantially, more than doubling down-pressure over the former model. As a further improvement, the Porsche GT3 comes for the first time with particularly sporting PSM Porsche Stability Management switching on and off in individual stages.


Porsche’s second new model launch in Geneva is the Cayenne Diesel. The combination of Porsche’s particularly dynamic and versatile SUV with a very economical, high-torque power unit offers significant advantages above all on long distances and when towing a trailer. Added to this there are the outstanding driving dynamics, safety and offroad qualities for which the Cayenne is widely lauded the world over.

From outside, the new model comes with the same looks and appearance as the Cayenne with its V6 gasoline engine and likewise boasts the Cayenne model designation on its tailgate.

Displacing three litres, the extra-smooth and refined V6 power unit develops maximum output of 240 bhp (176 kW), sufficient for a top speed of 214 km/h or 133 mph. What is even more remarkable is the engine’s superior torque peaking at a remarkable 550 Nm or 405 lb-ft at just 2,000 rpm.

Accelerating to 100 km/h in 8.3 seconds with its Tiptronic S transmission featured as standard, the new Cayenne offers superior qualities also in its performance, thus ensuring that typical Porsche style in every respect.

The absolute highlight of the new power unit is of course its supreme economy: Average fuel consumption of 9.3 litres diesel/100 kilometres, equal to 30.4 mpg imp, gives the new Cayenne with its 100-litre (22 imp gal) fuel tank an exceptional range of up to 1,000 kilometres or 620 miles.

The Cayenne Diesel comes exclusively with Porsche’s six-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission. Likewise featured as standard in the Cayenne, PSM Porsche Stability Management has been specifically geared to the characteristics of the diesel engine, while intelligent PTM Porsche Traction Management provides an ideal symbiosis of very good onroad and offroad driving qualities, spreading out engine power appropriately between the front and rear wheels.


















[Source : PORSCHE]
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Alfa added 2 new engines for 2009 Alfa Romeo 159, 1.8 litre - turbocharged direct injection petrol engine to generate 200 hp.(149 kW) output with a “Q2″ electronic differential and a choice of any one a six-speed manual or sport-shift automatic transmission in TBi model and 170hp (126kW) diesel in the JTDm model.


Last year Alfa revealed the facelift of 159 sedan and wagon. The 2009 Alfa 159 prepared to reveal at Geneva Motor Show in next 2 weeks.


[Source : Motorauthority]
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The Toyota iQ may be the smallest four-seater car on the market, but is also one of the safest according to new independent crash testing results from Euro NCAP.



Euro NCAP, which has developed a new rating scheme which focuses on the vehicle’s overall protection performance, awarded the tiny traffic buster 5-stars. iQ’s British-built big brother, the new Avensis, also earned a 5-star rating.

The new rating scheme uses a weighted score, combining all aspects of a car’s safety performance: adult (50%), child (20%) and pedestrian (20%) protection assessment results with the availability of driver assistance devices (10%). A minimum score of 70% overall is necessary to achieve a 5-star rating. To qualify for inclusion, the devices must be fitted, as standard across 85% of the EU 27 2009 model range.

Despite its compact urban-friendly dimensions, the iQ makes no compromises in the fields of active and passive safety, achieving a remarkable overall weighted score of 79%. Every iQ features as standard, nine airbags – including a world-first, rear window curtain shield airbag, Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control.


The new Avensis’s overall weighted score of 81% highlights the new Toyota’s comprehensive levels of active and passive safety technology, which include a pre-crash system, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist and lane departure warning.

[Source : NEWSPRESS]
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Subaru has the perfect answer for belt-tightening motorists wishing to downsize but not down-spec. Diminutive delight, the Justy 1.0R is now available as a much sportier little number: the Justy 1.0 Twin Cam Special Edition.


Restricted to just 100 vehicles (50 in Black Mica, 50 in Shining Red), the extra equipment comprises rear roof spoiler; twin exhaust system; over roof ‘viper stripes’ and side decals; leather and alloy gear knob and rear privacy glass– creating the perfect blend of inexpensive, economical motoring in a desirable, sporty package.

Priced from £9,995, the Special Edition Twin Cam offers fantastic value for money at only £690 more than the standard model, even with a combined total of over £1,100 worth of extra kit.

This superb supermini, which returns 64.2 mpg on the Extra Urban Cycle and qualifies for the £35 annual Road Fund Licence, looks set to prove that even in these financially testing times, it is possible to get a great value for money, sporty vehicle with rock-solid reliability, frugal fuel economy, low CO2 emissions and low road fund licence all in one desirable package.

The standard Justy 1.0 R is already extremely well equipped with air conditioning; ABS with EBD; driver, passenger, front side and curtain airbags; radio/CD player with AUX input; four electric windows and remote central-locking, and is priced at a remarkable £9,305. A further enhancement available on both the Justy 1.0 R and Justy 1.0 Twin Cam is a stylish alloy wheel package comprising 15" Monza R wheels with Toyo 185/55R15 tyres: just £600 (inc. VAT) for a set of 4 (plus fitting).

The new Justy 1.0 Twin Cam now offers even more, and offers a racy alternative for the younger, and the young-at-heart, motorist.

[Source : SUBARU]
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TOKYO : February 18, 2009 - Honda announced that global sales of Honda hybrid vehicles exceeded the 300,000 units cumulatively, as of the end of January 2009. Honda introduced the first mass produced hybrid to Europe with the first-generation Insight in 1999 and followed this revolutionary 2-seat coupe with the 4-door Civic IMA and Civic Hybrid.


Honda is now selling its hybrid models in approximately 40 countries around the world including the key markets of Japan, North America and Europe.

Honda Hybrid Sales by Model/Region (as of the end of January 2009)


[Source : HONDA]
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The first official images set of the new Hyundai Equus has already leaked to the web.



The second generation Equus to bulit with the ever advanced technology in South Korea. Top of the line Equus powered by the new V8 5.0-liter engine to hit the Korean market with $96,000.

Base model of Equus offered with a 3.8-liter Lambda V6 and 4.6-liter Tau V8. Later on a 5.0-liter V8 engine will be offered, that rockets this Asian limo from 0-62 mph(0-100 km/h) in less than 6 seconds. The new Equus is bigger than current model with 5,160 mm.length, 1,900 mm. width, 1,495 mm. height and 3,045 mm. wheelbase.

More features available on the 2010 Hyundai Equus are Pre-safe seat belts, LED lights, Vehicle Stability Control System, Lane Departure Warning System and the new Hyundai developed 8-speed automatic transmission.

[Source : HYUNDAI via CarBlogger]
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SEOUL : February 18, 2009 - KIA Motors has revealed the first official image of the redesigned 2010 Kia Sorento, code-named 'XM'. Set to formally debut at the Geneva Motor Show next month, the new Sorento will bring a host of new fuel-conserving technologies including the all-aluminium turbodiesel R-Engine developed in-house with Hyundai.


The 2010 Sorento will deviate greatly from the current Sorento which rides on a body-on-frame platform. Instead, the new model will ride on a monocoque, also called unibody, platform. The redesigned model is also substantially bolder in style compared to the current model, as it is one of Peter Schreyer's first fully-individual works.

The truly breakthrough element of the 2010 Sorento is the array of powertrains it will be available in. In the Korean market, the CUV will be powered by a 2.4L Theta II petrol, a 2.7L LPI, or a new 2.2L turbodiesel R-engine. Making its debut in the new Sorento, the R-engine turbodiesel yields the ultimate efficiency and is Euro-5 compliant thanks to a close-coupled diesel particulate filter. Producing 200 PS and 321 lb.ft of torque (436 Nm), the R-engine also achieves optimal fuel economy numbers with 14.1 km/L (direct conversion: 33 MPG).

This places the 2.2L turbodiesel-equipped Sorento as the most fuel-efficient SUV in Korea, even ahead of its smaller sibling, Sportage. These numbers are also reachable due to the standard 6-speed automatic transmission it is mated to and an ECO-Driving system that assists the driver in extracting the best fuel consumption numbers.

The USDM Sorento will be available in either the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine or a 3.8L Lambda V6 (est. 270 hp). The Sorento will be manufactured in Kia's new, state-of-the-art West Point, Georgia factory. The Korean-market Sorento is slated to go on sale in April.

[Source : KIA via AutoBlogger]
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PARIS : February 18, 2009 - Peugeot, a major player on the small and medium car segment, is expanding its range with the 206+, the descendant of almost 6.5 million 206 produced since 1998. This vehicle, with genetic codes renowned worldwide, rounds off the Lion marque’s range.


A "range entry product"

The 206+ is thus a "range entry" product, in line with clients’ expectations: a benchmark car, modern and modernised, and above all accessible to as many people as possible, without compromising its appeal. Its interior has been designed with care, with a new "wave-look" dashboard and decorative touches that evoke the motorcycle world.

Its external style is resolutely modern, taking inspiration from the 207’s stylish façade. A new bonnet, a new radiator grille and new headlights highlight this stronger personality.

Manufactured in France for the European market

Manufactured in France, at the Mulhouse factory, the 206+ is intended for the core European market. It offers a range of engine options, with a 1.1 l petrol engine developing 44 kW (60 bhp) and a 1.4 l developing 55 kW (75 bhp), as well as a 1.4 l HDi Diesel engine developing 50 kW (70 bhp), keeping the carbon footprint under control thanks to CO2 emissions as low as 110 g/km.

WIth its size and its price/equipment ratio, the 206+ takes its rightful place in the Peugeot range between the 107, 1007 and 207.

This intelligently-tiered range achieves a good balance, between the little urban runabout and the the versatile small family car that is quite at ease on roads and motorways:

• 107, accessible friendly car, good for town driving and competitively priced;
  
• 1007, innovative concept for a variety of uses thanks to its two electric sliding doors;
  
• 207, with its three bodyshapes and its strong, stylish look, offers a wide-ranging clientele a high level of options and excellent road handling.

The 206+ thus picks up the torch behind the 206, the key model of the Peugeot range, with a strong international



[Source : PEUGEOT]
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COLOGNE : February 18, 2009 - The new Ford Ranger makes its European debut at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, combining sleek and modern exterior design with genuine toughness and durability.Ford Ranger plays as hard as it works, both on and off-road.


“The Ford Ranger nameplate is already established in more than 100 markets around the world,” said Henrik Nenzen, Ford of Europe’s Director of Commercial Vehicle Marketing and Sales. “The new model delivers even more style, comfort and features, making it an ideal choice for a family activity weekend, or a working week.”
Contemporary and sporty new exterior and interior design details make new Ranger a credible lifestyle choice, while its versatility and ‘tough truck’ underpinnings make it a robust and reliable work partner.


Built in Thailand, the new model will arrive in European Ford showrooms from April and is available in a comprehensive choice of model series, from the entry-level XL to the range-topping Wildtrak.

Bold New Ranger Face and Profile

In design terms, the new front styling gives Ranger a sleeker, more modern look, but also shows it means business.

A large horizontal three-bar grille dominates, and is proudly embossed with RANGER lettering. Two black vertical nostrils either side of the grille plus the extended opening below the bumperline and large headlamps that wrap around each front corner create an instantly recognisable design statement. The lower bumper fascia also includes integrated foglamps.

New Ranger’s tough contemporary style is supported by solid, modern engineering. The sweeping, tapered front is more aerodynamic and sweeps rearward at its edges to incorporate Ranger’s bold front wheel arches. This key design detail communicates Ranger’s solid, confident stance and grippy handling character, whether in 4×2 or 4×4 configuration.

Design features influenced by extensive wind tunnel testing also include the door mirrors. Increased in size for better visibility, the mirror’s shape – incorporating the LED turn indicator on Wildtrak – was specifically designed to reduce air turbulence and wind noise.

Ranger is available in three body styles – Single Cab, RAP (Rear Access Panel) Cab and Double Cab. The RAP Cab is a four-door system to provide freer access to the cabin by featuring two forward-hinged doors and two rear-hinged access panels. An innovation first introduced to Ranger in 2002, the RAP Cab provides unobstructed access to the spacious interior for ease of entry and cargo loading and an uncompromised side-impact safety structure that replaces the centre pillar of a traditional double cab. In addition a Chassis Cab version is available on both the
single Cab and RAP Cab.


Contemporary Details

A new black vent at the trailing edge of the front wings is one of the key styling signatures. The vent features detailed recessed meshwork which surrounds a chrome Ranger badge on Wildtrak models or the side-indicator repeater.

Ranger’s large door mirrors incorporate feature details to reflect the series choice. The mirror is moulded in black on the XL, finished with a body colour cap for Ranger XLT models and a chrome-finished cap for Ranger Limited and Wildtrak. The door mirrors on Wildtrak feature a high-intensity LED integral turn indicator. Mirrors pivot for tight clearance areas and all series now benefit from electrically heated mirrors for improved visibility.

Rear bumper finishes give further opportunity to reflect model series, so treatments progress from black on the XL to chrome on the higher series with Park Distance Control additionally featuring on the Limited and Wildtrak models.

Ranger is offered with ten high quality exterior paint choices, five of which are new: Highland Green, Wining Blue, Lagoon Blue, Copper Red and Desert Bronze.

New Ranger also debuts a clear tail lamp design – another contemporary cue – that visually unites the smooth tailgate to the sculpted box side. The clear tail lamps further emphasise the reality of car-like styling and features available in Ford’s pick-up range.


Style, Space, Craftsmanship and Comfort

Despite its tough load lugging and off-road capabilities, the new Ranger’s interior offers car-like comfort and low noise levels, thanks to ergonomically crafted seats, climate control and MP3-compatible audio and a bodyshell engineered to isolate road noise from the cabin.

“Minimising NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) in all of our products is a key target for us,” says Nenzen. “Ranger is no exception to this and the new model is more comfortable than ever.”

All Ranger models offer AM/FM radio and an MP3-compatible CD player as standard. The audio unit features a digital display that incorporates a clock function.

The lower centre console features two integral 12-volt power outlets and – on all models except the entry level XL – an additional AUX input connection for popular audio players, such as an iPod.
Ranger also offers an array of clever stowage solutions, including a centre stack sunglass binnacle, a front door stowage bin capable of accommodating a half-litre bottle and a pull-out sliding tray above the glove compartment.

Extending the width of the passenger side of the dashboard, the slideout tray supports a weight of 10 kilograms and is ideal for use as a work surface for writing or map reading.
Ranger’s large centre console features a two-level design. Its top bin is ideal for accommodating smaller items such as a mobile phone, while its lower bin can house larger objects, including up to 10 CD cases.

Power window and mirror controls are a standard feature in all four Ranger series. The driver’s window has a one-touch down feature and the switch is backlit for better night visibility.
Single cab models feature seating for two, the RAP Cab seats four and the Double Cab seats five. The rear seats in the RAP Cab can be folded up to provide secure storage in the cab rather than using the rear load space.

“The high performance air conditioning system, comprehensive audio features and red illumination of the instrument panel coupled with its bold and updated exterior styling make Ranger a very inviting place to be,” said Henrik Nenzen, “It is also the perfect crossover for business-owners and an increasing number of urban drivers seeking a stylish vehicle that reflects and supports their lifestyle choices.”


Ranger Power and Capability

The new Ford Ranger continues to offer a comprehensive choice of engines, transmissions and drivetrain configurations to meet all customer needs.

Two versions of Ford’s Duratorq TDCi turbo diesel engine lead the powertrain line-up. These responsive common-rail diesel engines are available in either 2.5-litre or 3.0-litre versions.
The diesel engines are available in 4×2 and 4×4 configurations and can be paired with either a five-speed automatic or a five-speed manual transmission.

The 143PS (105kW) 2.5-litre engine is rated at 330Nm and has CO2 emission figures of 227 g/km and 244 g/km respectively in 4×2 and 4×4 configurations and regular cab bodystyle. Using the EC combined fuel consumption cycle the 4×2 regular cab bodystyle travels 100 km using 8.3 litres of fuel and the 4×4 uses 8.9 litres.*

The 156PS (115kW) 3.0-litre version generates 380Nm at the flat peak of its torque curve

“Importantly for all of our customers both TDCi engines produce their maximum torque from just 1,800 rpm,” explains Nenzen. “This makes Ranger ideal for great on-road performance or for hauling and towing with its class leading 3,000kg braked trailer loads.”

The Ranger 4×4 is designed for superior ground clearance and river fording capability. Its approach and departure angles are designed to provide off-road clearance.

Ranger Tough

Ranger isn’t just about tough style. It’s about proven ‘truck toughness’.

Ranger’s toughness starts with a purpose-built truck backbone. Its unique overlapped, cross-braced ladder frame delivers clear strength superiority and the frame is engineered for greater rigidity than H-beam or open-beam configurations.

The frame structure is the foundation of Ranger’s load-carrying capacity, towing capability, durability, handling performance and driving quality.

The Load Ranger

The heart of Ranger’s truck capability is its extra-deep-sidewall pickup box. This design maximises load capacity and cargo flexibility.

The Ranger pick-up box features:

• Well-placed cargo tiedowns. Easy to access, these tiedown hooks have been designed with Ford’s extensive truck engineering experience
  
• Slotted inner fenders that allow the easy insertion of available shelving systems for cargo management and loading

Ranger is available in three pick-up box dimensions depending on cab configuration:

• Single Cab – 2280mm by 1456mm
  
• RAP Cab – 1753mm by 1456mm
  
• Double Cab – 1530mm by 1456mm

Ranger also offers class-leading towing capability. Ranger equipped with either the 2.5-litre or 3.0-litre TDCi Duratotq engine is rated at up to 3,000kg.

[Source : FORD]
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Last month, Toyota Corolla Axio GT has unveiled for GT-500 class of 2009 Super GT race. Last week, Team Yoshiki & Dome Project Racing team and Hatsune Miku Studie GLAD Racing team have unvieled those race cars to SUPER GT track.



Dome officially announced its team structure for the 2009 season at the Honda Welcome Plaza Aoyama in Tokyo. The team revealed its new collaboration with YOSHIKI, the leader of a popular rock band "X JAPAN," for the season which they will compete with new team name of "TEAM YOSHIKI & DOME PROJECT." Ryo Michigami and Takashi Kogure will continue their combination from last year's No. 18 car. Major names from the worlds of racing and rock match up strong to crown the SUPER GT title.

YOSHIKI and X JAPAN are also known for their passion for cars and motorsports and have sponsored a formula racing team in the past. President of Dome, Minoru Hayashi, explained how the collaboration all came to a light and its goal, "YOSHIKI loves cars very much, and when we were just talking, it kept on going and going and we ended up saying 'Let's do it!' Of course, our goal is to win, but, also, we would like to take a part in stimulating motorsports in this depression."


The team will enter the series as "ROCK STAR DOME NSX" this season and their No.18 NSX will have pint job of the energy drink that YOSHIKI is involved as the producer, "ROCK STAR," on the body.

"DOME was the super car of my dream when I was a kid. I am very excited to be able to race together with 'that' DOME. We became series champion when I was involved with the formula racing, so I want to win again," commented YOSHIKI.


For GT-300 Class, Hatsune Miku Studie GLAD BMW Z4 officially announced its entry into 2009 season and their new team structure in Akihabara, Tokyo. The team will be fielding a BMW Z4 with two drivers, Yasushi Kikuchi and Shozo Tagahara, which retains the same combination from last year, but, according to the announcement, the team structure and the German car went under a major improvement.


The team is newly named "Studie GLAD Racing," and has recruited experienced staff including an engineer who has served as the chief engineer at a victorious GT300 team. "We had a lot of issues last year since it was a newly build team. But most of the issues have been resolved, so drivers can't make excuses any more (laugh). I will put all my effort to finish at as higher position as possible." The BMW driver Kikuchi revealed his aspiration for the new season.


In addition, the team will be backed with a strong support for the season. By following back Hatsune Miku's path to the stardom, the team looked to the Internet for personal sponsors and an amazing 693 fans have offered support for the team. Team Manager Yasuaki Suzuki commented on his goal for this season, "I know it's not easy to finish in top group right away, but we will take on whatever we need to do one by one to meet everybody�fs expectation."


[Source : 2009 SUPER GT]
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MUNICH : February 17, 2009 - Choosing from the wide range of options offered by BMW Individual, the discerning driver of a BMW 7 Series is able to express his sense of select quality and exclusive style even more convincingly. Among other highlights, the range includes new BMW Individual leather in Merino fine grain standing out not only through the unique quality of the material and exclusive colours, but also through distinctive seam patterns on the seats, the dashboard and the door linings.


Matching the various leather colours, BMW Individual offers an even wider range of colours on the Alcantara roof lining, with fine trim bars in Satin Nut Brown, Reddish Brown plane tree and Black Piano paint ensuring particular class and style.

A new highlight in the wide range of BMW Individual exterior colours is Citrin Black in Xirallic technology.

Yet a further feature offered by BMW Individual is the newly developed, fully integrated cooling box able to accommodate two 0.7-litre bottles and two 0.33-litre cans. New 20-inch BMW Individual light-alloy wheels in V-spoke design round off the car's exclusive appearance on a truly personalised BMW 7 Series.

In a nutshell, therefore, the wide range of features offered by BMW Individual combines the safety and maturity of the regular production car with the unparalleled appeal, style and class of a genuine one-off masterpiece.








[Source : BMW]
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MILTON KEYNES, UK : February 17, 2008 - Following its best-ever track results in 2008, hopes are high that the coming season of the Volkswagen Racing Cup might provide even greater success for the world's only racing van – the Caddy TDI.


The crowd-pleasing Caddy van will be back in the hands of its regular pilot, Peter Wyhinny, for the 2009 season, and with some fine-tuning in the workshops of Volkswagen Racing UK, he hopes to improve on the three podium finishes the turbodiesel van delivered last year.

'The Caddy is now entering its fifth full season of competition,' said Wyhinny, 'and it's fair to say it's now treated as a very serious competitor. We still have a smile on our faces but our rivals are no longer looking on the racing van idea as a "bit of a joke".

'Last year the Caddy took a real step forward in performance. Our objective is to score better results than in 2008; we are aiming for the podium, to be a real thorn in the sides of the cars and may even be looking for our first win.'

The Caddy can more than handle the best of the car opposition thanks to its 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine, which produces 260 PS and maximum torque of 377 lbs ft with the help of Volkswagen Racing UK/Superchips mapping. A six-speed gearbox is fitted as well as a bespoke Milltek exhaust system.

Wyhinny, whose day job is at the helm of SEAT UK, says that the twistier tracks on the calendar – and in particular the Knockhill circuit in Scotland – will suit the Caddy's well-balanced chassis and handling characteristics.

The first rounds of the Volkswagen Racing Cup take place at the Oulton Park circuit in Cheshire on 11 to 13 April and across the UK until September. Full details of the race programme and the Volkswagen Racing Cup are available from www.vw-cup.co.uk.


The Caddy is the smallest model in the van range from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. It offers a load volume of 3.2 m² and payload of up to 724 kg, with diesel engines available producing 69 PS, 104 PS and 140 PS. Retail prices start from £10,750 (plus VAT).

The Caddy Racer inspired Volkswagen’s stylish Sportline van range, which now includes the Caddy, Caddy Maxi and Transporter. The Sportline features colour-coded bumpers, exterior mirrors and door handles, a lower front spoiler with integrated front fog lights, rear spoiler, bespoke alloy wheels, plus chrome grille and side rails, and leather upholstery.

[Source : VOLKSWAGEN]
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ROLLE, Switzerland February 17, 2009 – Infiniti will show visitors to the 2009 International Geneva Motor Show the essence of its brand in one dramatic concept car.


A celebration of Infiniti and its 20 years history as a creator of performance cars, the powerful concept will also be an inspiring exploration into the brand’s future. Produced in collaboration with Louis Vuitton, the Infiniti Essence will be revealed on March 3, 2009.

[Source : INFINITI]
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GOTHENBURG : February 17, 2009 - Volvo Cars sharpens the company's diesel offer. Two entirely new five-cylinder, 2.4-litre turbo diesels give the customers the attractive possibility to combine more power with class-leading fuel consumption and CO₂-emissions:

• The high-performance, twin-turbo D5 with 205 hp and 420 Nm of torque.
  
• The medium-performance, single-turbo 2.4D with 175 hp and 420 Nm of torque.

Both engines are available in the Volvo S80, Volvo V70, Volvo XC60 and Volvo XC70 from the spring of 2009.

"This is yet another step in our determination to reduce the combustion engine's environmental impact, at the same time as we give customers truly quiet and sophisticated engines with excellent performance," says Derek Crabb, Vice President, Powertrain Engineering at Volvo Cars.


The high-performance D5-engine has already been introduced in the Volvo S80 and it will be available in the Volvo V70, Volvo XC60 and Volvo XC70 from the spring of 2009.

The performance and driveability requirements in the high-performance D5-engine have been solved with twin turbochargers of different sizes that operate in sequence to provide added power within a broader rev range. The result is alert response and rapid acceleration at all speeds, with very smooth power delivery between the turbo ranges.

This twin-turbo technology in the D5 has also made it possible to introduce higher levels of exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) across a wider rev range than before. This harnesses the two turbochargers' different properties optimally to deliver a combination of high performance and low fuel consumption that is bidding for the title of best in class.


The advanced fuel injection technology uses piezoelectric fuel injectors. This provides precise distribution of the atomised fuel in the combustion chamber, resulting in efficient combustion and low emissions. At the same time, this technology and the efficient combustion create a pleasant sound bearing a closer resemblance to the elegant note of a six-cylinder petrol engine.

Together, the high-tech solutions contribute to the excellent fuel consumption (EU Combined) figures:

• 6.2 litres/100 km (164 g/km) in the S80.
  
• 6.4 litres/100 km (169 g/km) in the V70.
  
• 7.0 litres/100 km (185 g/km) in the XC60 (preliminary).
  
• 7.0 litres/100 km (185 g/km) in the XC70 (preliminary).

The single-turbo 2.4D - focus on fuel economy

The single-turbo 2.4D will be available in the Volvo S80 and Volvo V70 as well as in front-wheel-drive versions of the Volvo XC60 and Volvo XC70 from the spring of 2009.

The engine has been optimised with low fuel consumption in sharp focus. The injection system features another type of piezoelectric fuel injectors than in the D5, aiming to cut fuel consumption through extremely rapid and precise injection sequences. The high injection pressure results in particularly effective combustion.

To promote the drivability, the single turbocharger has been optimised to produce high torque from low revs.

The upgraded single-turbo 2.4D-engine gives a fuel consumption (EU Combined)of:

• 5.8 litres/100 km (154 g/km) in the S80 (preliminary).
  
• 5.9 litres/100 km (157 g/km) in the V70 (preliminary).
  
• 6.0 litres/100 km (159 g/km) in the XC60.
  
• 6.0 litres/100 km (159 g/km) in the XC70.

Mutual technology

The two new diesel engines share a number of technology solutions. The engines have lower compression, more efficient combustion and the latest generation of engine management. Volvo Cars' powertrain experts have reduced internal friction and pump losses in the diesel engines. The pressure drop in the intake and exhaust system has also been significantly reduced.

The new turbo diesels have also been equipped with ceramic glow plugs, a high-tech solution that delivers excellent starting properties owing to very quick warming up. They reach a temperature of 1,000 degrees Celsius in just two seconds, making the engine easy to start and cutting emissions. In certain driving conditions, such as at really low revs, the ceramic glow-plugs can also be used to increase the temperature in the cylinders, further improving combustion efficiency.



[Source : VOLVO]
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• DTM championship winning team remains unchanged from 2008
  
• Focus on three factory backed teams
  
• Katherine Legge moves across to championship team

INGOLSTADT : February 17, 2009 – Audi starts the 2009 DTM season at the Hockenheimring on 17 May with something new: For the first time there is not a single change to the driving squad compared to the previous year.


"2008 was the most successful year in the motorsport history of AUDI AG,” explains Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. "The drivers were also a major factor in this, which is why we saw no reason to change anything on our proven driver squad.”

As in 2007 and 2008, Mattias Ekström (Sweden), Tom Kristensen (Denmark), Timo Scheider (Germany) and Martin Tomczyk (Germany) will drive the four latest generation Audi A4 DTM cars, which are once again fielded by Audi Sport Team Abt Sportsline.

The two Germans Mike Rockenfeller and Markus Winkelhock compete with year old cars again for Audi Sport Team Rosberg, plus Oliver Jarvis (Great Britain) and Alexandre Prémat (France) for Audi Sport Team Phoenix.

The only change to the team line-up concerns Katherine Legge: The Briton, who contested her first DTM season in 2008 with a two-year old A4, moves from customer team Futurecom TME to Audi Sport Team Abt Sportsline where she will drive a year-old car for the first time.

"We decided to concentrate on our three factory teams Abt Sportsline, Phoenix and Rosberg,” explains Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. "It’s a great opportunity for Katherine to start for the defending DTM championship winning team.”

Audi’s goal for the 2009 DTM season is ambitious: The brand with the four rings aims to become the first automobile manufacturer in the history of the "new” DTM to win the championship title three times in succession. "With our proven driving squad I believe that we are well placed to achieve this,” says Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. "However, it’s perfectly clear to us that the challenge is even greater than last year and that the field could well be even closer. Our competitor Mercedes-Benz will do everything to win the title in 2009.”

For the 2009 season Audi has further developed last year’s championship winning car and made detail improvements. The Audi A4 DTM, known as the "R14 plus” internally, meets the competition for the first time at the official DTM test at Dijon (France) between 14 and 16 April. The presentation of the 2009 DTM is held in Düsseldorf on April 19, before the new season opens at Hockenheim four weeks later.

[Source : Audi]
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STUTTGART : February 17, 2009 – The Geneva Motor Show will see the comeback of an intriguing product idea when Mercedes-Benz presents a new model to the Coupé range in the form of the new E-Class. Just three months after the presentation of the Saloon, the brand is launching a highlight in the new model series while continuing a tradition that has repeatedly met with great enthusiasm throughout the history of the E-Class.


The new E-Class Coupé offers a very special combination of two attributes for which the Mercedes brand is known: fascination and efficiency. With its classic coupé side aspect – no B-pillars and fully retractable side windows – the new two-door car is a particularly sporty interpretation of the E-Class's dynamic design. At the same time the most aerodynamic variant of the Coupé achieves a new world best in terms of drag coefficient: with a Cd-figure of just 0.24, this model is the world's most aerodynamically efficient series-production car. The model programme includes two new 4-cylinder engines, which consume up to 17% less fuel whilst offering a significant increase in performance and torque. The new E-Class Coupé's standard-fit AGILITY CONTROL suspension adjusts automatically to the current driving situation. It combines driving enjoyment and excellent handling with maximum comfort. The new E-Class Coupé will be in UK showrooms from June 2009.


The new Coupé offers all the technical innovations of the new E-Class series that one might expect to find in a sports-oriented luxury coupé. These include selective damper control, drowsiness detection, preventive occupant protection and the Active Bonnet. As a feature specific to the Coupé, the Dynamic Driving package allows different suspension setups at the touch of a button. Adaptive Main Beam Assist and an automatic emergency braking system are also features with which the new series sets standards in this vehicle category.

The E-Class also takes on a pioneering role in the drive sector. The new diesels and direct-injection petrol engines combine efficiency with an effortless power delivery. The engine line-up includes two new four-cylinder models which deliver significantly more power and torque while consuming up to 17 percent less fuel. The best example is the E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé, which consumes 53.3 mpg emits 139 grams of CO2 per kilometre, making it one of the most economical vehicles in its class.

The exemplary, fuel consumption has not only been achieved because of the new engines, but also with a number of practical measures. These include on-demand activation of the steering and fuel pumps, the use of tyres with low rolling resistance and an alternator control system which takes account of the current driving situation and the vehicle's electrical power requirements, plus the very decisive factor of outstanding aerodynamics.

An overview of the engines:

Design which expresses passion and effortless superiority

The design of the new two-door model includes traditional styling elements which give Mercedes-Benz Coupés their unmistakable identity: for example the side windows, which are not interrupted by a B-pillar and are fully retractable. Another hallmark of Mercedes Coupé design is the sports radiator grille with the large central star. At the same time, however, the new model points the way to the future with an exciting, contemporary design idiom.

At the same time the Coupé shows its close family resemblance to the E-Class Saloon. This is shown by the 'twin-headlamp face', with rhomboid contours but somewhat sportier, sharper treatment for a more dynamic and incisive look. Another design feature which the Coupé shares with the Saloon is the powerful contour of the rear wing - a styling cue which also gave the S 220 "Ponton" Coupé of 1955 its athletic appearance.

Although it shares family traits with the Saloon, the Coupé has its own, distinct identity characterised by effortless superiority and a greater sense of passion. The arrow shape of the entire front section from front bumper to radiator to bonnet, the more extreme interpretation of the twin headlamp face and its more lean build give it a racier and more dynamic presence.

Newly developed seats with a sporty design

The seats of the E-Class Coupé are new developments whose design and technology reflect the sporty nature of this two-door Mercedes. They are electrically adjustable for seat height and backrest angle as standard. The high, sports car-like seat backrests have a practical Easy-Entry function to make access and egress easier for rear-seat passengers. In conjunction with electric seat adjustment with memory (an optional extra), the front seats are equipped with electro pneumatically adjustable four-way lumbar supports; these are able to provide anatomically favourable support for the lower spine, which further improves seating comfort.

Luxury seats with leather upholstery are standard on the SE, and active ventilation available is available as an optional extra. The newly developed multicontour seats with inflatable air chambers in the front seat cushions as well as in the centre and side bolsters of the backrests are standard on the Sport model. Two comfortable individual seats are available for the rear passengers. These feature backrests which can be folded down individually or together to increase the capacity of the luggage compartment.

Engines: fuel consumption improved by 17 percent

The diesel in the E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé is the top-of-the-range unit in the new generation of Mercedes-Benz four-cylinder engines, which are notable for features such as two-stage turbo charging, precise piezo injectors and the latest common-rail technology. The engine has an output of 204 hp and develops a maximum torque of 500 Nm which is available from just 1600 rpm. This means that it is some 36 percent more powerful than the four-cylinder diesel in the preceding model yet consumes 17 percent less fuel returning 53.3 mpg (combined NEDC consumption, provisional figure). This corresponds to a carbon dioxide emission level of 139 grams per kilometre.

The turbocharged V6 diesel engine with common-rail direct injection remains in the line-up. Fitted in the E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé, it develops 231 hp (previously: 224 hp) and returns 41.5 mpg (combined) in the NEDC cycle. Its carbon-dioxide emissions are 179 grams per kilometre.


Two new petrol engines with direct injection

Mercedes-Benz has also chosen to move over to direct-injection technology for its petrol engines. Once again, the E-Class Coupé points the way: the power plant at work under the bonnet of the E 250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé is a newly developed four-cylinder direct-injection unit with 204 hp and a five-speed automatic transmission as standard. This engine returns 40.4 mpg (combined NEDC consumption, provisional figure). CO2 emissions are 164 grams per kilometre. This is some 13 percent less than the figure for the previous four-cylinder engine (184 hp) with conventional fuel injection.

Mercedes-Benz has replaced the previous V6 petrol engine with the world's first six-cylinder unit featuring spray-guided direct petrol injection in the new E 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé. This engine develops 292 hp – an extra 20 hp – and consumes about 14 percent less fuel than the previous V6 engine: its combined fuel economy is 32.5 mpg. This corresponds to 203 grams of CO2 per kilometre.

In the top-of-the-range model, the E 500 Coupé, the muscular V8 engine with 388 hp and 530 Nm of torque offers the performance characteristics of a sports car. Mercedes engineers have enhanced details of the eight-cylinder unit, to returns 25.9 mpg (combined NEDC consumption). All the engines in the new E-Class Coupés meet the EU5 exhaust emission standard.

Safety: sensors, radar and cameras for safer driving

The safety systems newly developed for the E-Class are based on accident research findings; they can make a valuable contribution to enabling safe, accident-free driving, improving vehicle occupant protection and, moreover, helping to increase the safety of other road users. These trend-setting developments are also available for the new E-Class Coupé, or are included in its standard equipment. Based on highly sensitive sensors, cameras and radar systems, they turn this two-door model into an "intelligent partner" able to see, feel and react reflexively in critical situations and, if necessary, act independently if the danger of an accident is acute.

Drowsiness is one of the most common causes of accidents on motorways. This is why Mercedes experts have developed the ATTENTION ASSIST system which forms part of the standard equipment of the new E-Class Coupé. As the vehicle is being driven, the system continuously evaluates more than 70 different parameters in order to identify driver drowsiness and provide a warning before the dangerous microsleep phase begins. Observing the driver’s steering behaviour has proved to be a particularly strong indicator: several years of practical research by Mercedes engineers has shown that drowsy drivers make minor steering errors which they often correct very rapidly in a characteristic way. This steering behaviour is recognised by a special steering angle sensor.

Also fitted as standard is the PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system - a Mercedes invention which has received a number of awards and which is not offered by any other vehicle in this class. If there is immediate danger of an accident occurring, the system activates protective measures for the driver and front passenger as a precaution so that the seat belts and airbags can provide their full protective effect on impact. This warning of an impending accident is possible because PRE-SAFE® uses the sensors of the Brake Assist system and the Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) to identify potentially critical dynamic handling situations.

Adaptive Main Beam Assist for the best possible road illumination

Like the Saloon, the new E-Class Coupé also offers the latest lighting technology. The headlamps adjust continuously to the current driving situation and react automatically to offer the driver the best possible degree of road illumination at all times. This task is taken care of by the Adaptive Main Beam Assist function: a camera fitted on the inside of the windscreen allows the system to detect oncoming vehicles/vehicles in front and automatically controls the headlamps to prevent the other road users from being dazzled. As a result, the range of the dipped-beam headlamps can increase from the current norm of 65 metres to as much as 300 metres. If the road ahead is clear, the system performs a gradual transition to high-beam mode.

Adaptive Main Beam Assist is based on the bi-xenon headlamps, which Mercedes-Benz offers in combination with LED daytime driving lights. This is standard on the Sport and optional on the SE.

Automatic emergency braking when a collision is imminent

The well-proven assistance systems from the S-Class which help to prevent rear-end collisions are now available for the E-Class Coupé, too. They use long and short-range radar sensors to monitor the traffic situation ahead of the vehicle and warn the driver if there is a risk of an accident. Mercedes-Benz combines these technologies in the DISTRONIC PLUS system; along with the proximity control system - which automatically maintains the Coupé at a set distance from the vehicle in front and can brake it to a standstill if required by the traffic situation - this comprises Brake Assist PLUS and the PRE-SAFE® Brake.

Brake Assist PLUS intervenes if there is suddenly a very rapid reduction in the distance. In this situation, the system warns the driver and almost instantaneously calculates the degree of braking assistance necessary to prevent a collision. This brake force is available immediately the driver depresses the brake pedal. Depending on the speed and distance, it allows controlled braking to a defined point or - if necessary - emergency braking.

The PRE-SAFE® Brake goes a step further and automatically brakes the E-Class if there is imminent danger of a collision and the driver does not react to the warnings. This can reduce the severity of an impact considerably, as the system can be regarded as something like an "electronic crumple zone" which offers the occupants an even greater degree of safety.

Most comprehensive array of safety features in this vehicle category

With seven standard-fit airbags, belt tensioners and belt force limiters on all seats, as well as crash-responsive head restraints for the driver and front passenger, the new E-Class Coupé offers the most comprehensive array of safety features in this vehicle category. The range of airbags, which can deploy in thousandths of a second in an accident, comprises front and side airbags for the driver and front passenger, a knee bag for the driver and window bags. Rear sidebags are available as an optional extra.

The front crumple zone has four independent impact planes which allow the forces to be distributed over a wide area while bypassing the passenger cell. Furthermore, increased use of extra-high-strength steel alloy helps the vehicle body to withstand high impact loads. In fact, particularly strong grades of steel like this account for about two thirds of all the sheet metal used in the body shell of the E-Class Coupé.

An Active Bonnet, which forms part of the standard equipment, is the latest development to result from Mercedes-Benz's long-standing and successful commitment to pedestrian protection. In the event of an impact, a system of springs raises the rear section of the bonnet by 50 millimetres within a fraction of a second, thereby increasing the available deformation space. A special feature of the Mercedes system is its reversible mechanism which allows the driver to reset the Active Bonnet without having to visit a workshop.


Comfort: advanced technology for a new driving experience

Along with safety, comfort has always been one of the outstanding qualities of the E-Class. Here, too, the Coupé lives up to the high standard set by the Saloon and demonstrates further noticeable progress, especially with regard to ride, seating and climate comfort. Another important comfort factor is the generous interior space, which Mercedes engineers created by increasing both the length and width of the vehicle body by 46 millimetres. This resulted in the distance between the front and rear seat reference points - an important dimension for the occupants' freedom of movement - increasing by ten millimetres to 789 mm while the elbow width improved by up to 49 millimetres, compared to the preceding model.

High standard of ride comfort through selective damper control

The new E-Class Coupé's standard-fit AGILITY CONTROL suspension adjusts automatically to the current driving situation. In order to provide the best possible ride comfort, this system reduces the damping during normal driving but immediately applies the maximum damping force during dynamic cornering or sudden evasive manoeuvres. This ensures optimum stabilisation of the Coupé.

As an alternative to the standard-fit AGILITY CONTROL suspension which is set up for comfort, a variant with a sportier damper response and more direct steering – the AGILITY CONTROL sports suspension – is available as an optional extra. To meet the requirements of even more demanding drivers, Mercedes-Benz has developed a dynamic handling package (Standard on the E500 Coupé and optional on the Sport model line) with an electronically controlled damping system. This processes sensor data about the current driving situation and adjusts the shock absorbers separately for each wheel. Furthermore, the driver can switch between two drive modes - Comfort and Sport - which make corresponding adjustments to the suspension set-up, accelerator response and the shift points of the automatic transmission. A newly developed speed-sensitive sports steering system with a more direct ratio and variable centring is also standard on the Sport model line.

In order to allow a comparison of suspension characteristics, Mercedes engineers have developed the body index - a composite formula which is calculated from the readings for various typical driving manoeuvres. The body index is an indication of how well the suspension is linked to the body, how closely the car hugs the road and how nimble the handling is through fast bends. The higher the figure, the sportier - i.e. the firmer - the suspension characteristics.

The body index shows how the dynamic handling package is able to meet customers' requirements for dynamism and comfort in equal measure: the index figure of 2.06 attained in Sport mode is reduced to 1.89 - a typical level for a saloon - when Comfort mode is selected.

Individual climatic comfort at the touch of button

The newly developed luxury automatic climate control system regulates the temperature, volume and distribution of the air in three zones to meet the requirements of the driver, front passenger and rear passengers. What's more, for the first time, this optional THERMOTRONIC system allows the selection of different climatisation modes: the occupants can choose "Diffuse", "Medium" or "Focus" modes at the touch of a button in order to adapt the air volume and distribution to their personal preferences while still benefiting from the convenience and comfort of automatically regulated climate control. Fitted as standard in the E-Class Coupé, the THERMATIC two-zone automatic climate control has been enhanced to offer five percent more heating and cooling power than the version fitted in the predecessor model.

Infotainment system with colour display in the dashboard

The well-proven operating concept from the S-Class, comprising the multifunction steering wheel, Controller on the centre tunnel, colour display in the dash-board and direct selection buttons also offers the occupants of the new E-Class Coupé a very high standard of operating comfort.

The Controller puts all the functions of the advanced infotainment system - such as the radio, CD/DVD player, telephone and navigation system - at the fingertips of the driver and front passenger. The Audio 20 CD radio with eight loudspeakers, a CD player and a Bluetooth interface for a mobile phone is fitted as standard. Customers who specify the optional COMAND multimedia system benefit from additional functions: a Europe-wide hard-disc navigation system, a DVD changer, the Music Register (storage for about 1000 music tracks), a media interface for connecting external MP3 and voice control with whole-word recognition. Further options for even greater listening pleasure are available in the form of a 500-watt surround sound system, players and a tuner for digital radio reception. Navigation 50 will also be optional on the E-Class Coupé providing a compromise between Audio 20 and COMAND offering a head unit with full colour mapping as well as the media interface.

Model range: individuality through variety

With a line-up of five engines in the UK, three suspension variants, a wide choice of colours, five different wheel/tyre combinations and many optional extras, the new E-Class Coupé offers plenty of scope for customers to turn their individual automotive dreams into reality. The basis for configuring the look and feel of the Coupé is provided by the SE and SPORT model lines.

These not only offer different upholsteries and items of trim, but are complete configuration packages designed to create a completely different atmosphere. Depending on the choice, the interior differs in its colour scheme and mix of materials to emphasise the elegant or progressive character of the Coupé.

The Sport model line clearly focuses on agility and performance potential. AMG body styling includes the unmistakable contours of the AMG front apron with large air intakes, AMG side skirts and the expressive AMG rear apron with a black insert. High-sheen 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in a 6 twin-spoke design with wide-base tyres in size 235/40 R 18 at the front and 255/35 R 18 at the rear provide further highlights. The AGILITY CONTROL sports suspension with a stiffer spring, shock absorber and stabiliser setup is combined with large, perforated brake discs at the front, plus brake callipers with Mercedes-Benz lettering. Perfect road contact is ensured by the sports speed-sensitive steering with a more direct ratio.

Deliveries of the E-Class Coupé will start in June 2009 and pricing is soon to be confirmed.



[Source : DAIMLER}
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HIROSHIMA : February 17, 2009 - Mazda Motor Corporation has announced it will participate in the “ITS-Safety 2010” combined tests of automotive Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS)* in Japan. Mazda will provide Mazda MPV and Mazda Atenza (known as the Mazda6 overseas) vehicles – equipped with advanced safe driving systems it has developed – for use in public demonstration events to be held from February 25 to 28, 2009, in Odaiba, Tokyo’s new waterfront subcenter district. The ITS-Safety 2010 testing is being conducted by the “ITS Promotion Council,” a joint committee formed of public and private sector organizations in Japan to advance large-scale testing of safety technologies.



The ITS trials will verify the effectiveness of advanced automotive intelligent technology systems that have been jointly developed through public and private sector cooperation. This involves setting up the necessary apparatus on public roads, verifying the ITS technologies’ interoperability among different automakers and the system’s applicability to real-world driving use. The project’s overall aim is to make Japanese roads the safest in the world.

Mazda has been involved in ITS validation trials on public roads in the Hiroshima region since 2006. Its role, as a member of the consortium of regional government, academic and industry organizations that is sponsoring the local ITS trials, has been to develop on-board navigation systems to support ITS technology. To date, Mazda has equipped approximately 50 vehicles driven by consortium partners and members of the public with ITS-related safety systems. The data collected from these vehicles is being used to analyze unique characteristics of the local traffic infrastructure, such as large arched bridges with poor forward visibility or bridges that are shared by vehicles and streetcars.

Mazda committed to making more eco-friendly and safer vehicles as one of the major elements of its March 2007 long-term vision for technology development, Sustainable Zoom-Zoom. Through the development of driver awareness technologies as part of its involvement in ITS initiatives, the company is striving to build fun-to-drive vehicles with abundant safety technologies that will share a sustainable traffic infrastructure with pedestrians, bicycles, and all other road users.

* ITS is a new transport system which is comprised of an advanced information and telecommunications network for users, roads and vehicles. ITS contributes toward solving transportation problems such as traffic accidents and vehicle congestion.

[Source : MAZDA]
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GOODWOOD : 16 February 16, 2009 - Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is pleased to announce details of a product update to the 2009 model year Phantom and Phantom Extended Wheelbase. Building on a successful sales year in 2008, the phased introduction of a number of subtle model year enhancements will reinforce Phantom’s position as the pinnacle product of the super luxury segment.


Harmonising the front appearance of the car with that of the Phantom Drophead Coupé and Phantom Coupé, a new streamlined front bumper has been designed and integrated with a shallower grille, finished in stainless steel.

Other new exterior features include LED door handle illumination and the fitting of 21-inch cast aluminium wheels as standard. Two further wheel options exist, both manufactured in forged alloy and available in either painted or part polished finishes.

Inside, rear passengers will benefit from a new RCA component input which provides auxiliary audio and visual connectivity to the 12-inch monitors mounted within the picnic tables. Further features include new front and rear door cappings with integrated grab handles and new bi-directional double reading lights in the C-pillar provide additional illumination. Rear climate control, volume control and electric window switches are now conveniently repositioned, housed in a wood veneer panel in the door.

Production will commence at Goodwood in the spring



[Source : ROLLS-ROYCE]
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A fleet of 25 Vauxhall Corsas purchased by Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service are supporting vital fire investigation and safety work across the County and in the Boroughs of Halton and Warrington.


The cars are being used by staff who carry out fire safety checks, provide on-site visits following incidents, and offer fire prevention advice to business owners.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service covers an area of almost 900 square miles with a population approaching one million and in which there are over 400,000 homes. Staff also visit business and other non-domestic premises, where their work over the last 12 months has resulted in a reduction of 12.5% in the number of fires.

Hayden Day, Transport Manager for Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Providing our staff with access to communities across Cheshire and in Halton and Warrington means that they often have to travel considerable distances. It is vital therefore that our vehicles are reliable, energy efficient, economically friendly and comfortable – and the Corsa fits the bill very well.

“Given Vauxhall’s base at Ellesmere Port, the purchase also fulfils the Service’s commitment to supporting local businesses where practical.”

A recent student safety campaign saw two of the Corsa’s playing an important part in raising awareness of the dangers of fire and promoting personal responsibility for safety. Specially commissioned graphics were applied to the vehicles containing a cautionary message and both cars were present, along with staff, during freshers’ weeks at local colleges.

The Corsas were supplied in white paint, making it easy to apply the vinyl graphics and to change them in line with any other seasonal campaigns that the Service might decide to mount.

All are three-door hatchback Corsa Life models with fuel-efficient 1.0 litre petrol engines developing 60 PS and matched to a five-speed gearbox. In the Life model there is a single folding rear seat which meets the need for materials and equipment to be easily carried when required.

[Source : NEWSPRESS]
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ZUMIKON, Switzerland : February 16, 2009 - The Swiss auto powerhouse Rinspeed presents the Rinspeed iChange Concept, the world's first car whose body adapts to the number of passengers on board. For Rinspeed boss Rinderknecht the vehicle is more than just a clever concept car. "The Rinspeed iChange Concept is a symbol for the fundamental changes the auto industry undergoes worldwide. And it is clear that only those companies will survive that have innovative answers for the demands of a new automotive era." The visionary Rinderknecht is convinced that the days of gas-guzzling behemoths are coming to an end: "The Rinspeed iChange Concept is a signal for the coming global changes to individual mobility. We need to be ready to meet these challenges with new ideas."



In seconds a streamlined one-seater sports car transforms into a comfortable car with ample room for three. The trick: At the push of a button the rear end of the teardrop-shaped car magically pops up. "We have designed and built an extremely flexible vehicle. In it we have brought the themes of versatility and continually changing energy demands to their logical conclusions." The result is a streamlined, lightweight zero-emission car with dramatically reduced energy consumption.

The basic idea behind the 'Rinspeed iChange Concept: The energy demand of a vehicle depends mostly on its weight, the type of engine it uses, and its aerodynamic properties. The engineering-services company Esoro that traditionally builds Rinspeed concept cars has built an extremely lightweight car weighing in at only 1050 kilograms. To power the car, the Swiss specialists chose an electric motor. The idea of the pop-up rear end was conceived to account for the sizeable effect aerodynamics play in fuel consumption.


While other cars always have to ferry around their puffed-up exteriors that can accommodate up to seven passengers even if they're just transporting a single soul, the Rinspeed iChange Concept features an adaptive body. The sole driver is conveyed in a teardrop-shaped car that offers optimal aerodynamic properties and thus minimized energy consumption. If more than one person need to be transported the expanding rear provides room for two passengers. As a result of the increased weight and no longer optimal aerodynamics the energy consumption increases - but only for the time passengers are actually on board.

The energy for the electric motor comes from lithium-ion batteries that are available in two different stack configurations for short- and long-distance driving. The electric motor of the Rinspeed iChange Concept produces 150kW, capable of propelling the car to a top speed of 220 km/h. The sprint from rest to 100 km/h takes just slightly over four seconds. This impressive performance is made possible with the help of a six-speed pre-selector gearbox from the Subaru WRX car. The central research department of Siemens AG (Corporate Technology, CT) supplied the integration technology for engine/generator, electronics and battery connection interface. Siemens has long been one of the world leaders for energy systems and eco technology with pioneering concepts for electric drive systems. Its products cover the entire electric value-added chain from generation to distribution to consumption. The gearbox and drivetrain are lubricated with eco-friendly lubricants from Motorex. Custom-made lightweight 17" and 18" forged wheels with aerodynamic shrouds are supplied by light-alloy wheel specialists AEZ. Pirelli P Zero tires in size 215/40-17 in front and size 245/40-18 in back provide optimal grip.


An initial walk-around reveals that the concept car has no doors. The entire electrically powered roof section of the car measuring just 1.03 meters in height tilts forward to allow passengers to board. Also gone are such mundane things as a key. Its role is filled by an Apple iPhone, which also controls the most important vehicle functions. The Rinspeed iChange Concept is drastically different than ordinary cars in every detail: At the heart of the concept car lies the groundbreaking next-generation Harman/Kardon infotainment system. The system uses an innovative Intel processor technology that guarantees minimized power consumption. The same is true for the Harman/Kardon high-efficiency audio system. This revolutionary technology meets highest demands on sound quality, weighs much less than ordinary systems and at the same time uses only a fraction of energy. This opens the door to a new dimension of energy efficiency. The route guidance of the navigation system is also especially eco-friendly: The system calculates the most energy-saving route and displays the directions in realistic 3D view. Eberspächer Group from Esslingen, Germany is one of the world leaders in car heaters. Specifically for the „iChange" project Eberspächer developed custom-tailored electric and fuel-burning heating systems. Both systems are geared toward the specific requirements and conditions of electric vehicles.


The pure wool used in the interior was further refined into high-tech wool by Schoeller using state-of-the-art processes. The wool is spun and died in accordance with the highest eco standards. It provides an extremely extravagant ambiance in the Rinspeed iChange Concept, looks stunning and is delicate to the touch. The competence partner Strähle + Hess transformed this natural product into a striking interior. Its surface character and materiality combine to create a symbiosis of shell, firmness and frothy air. Unconventional techniques create unusual surfaces. The seams of the seats are reversed and the removable seats cushions are adorned with the prototype's name. Xmobil provided further customization services. While textiles can be found in the Rinspeed iChange Concept in their original form in other areas, they are newly interpreted on seats and cargo floor using various refinement techniques such as braiding and gathering and a combination of both. Leather strips alternate with technical textiles. The seat cushions are interchangeable, braided felt alternates with technical textiles formed into three-dimensional shapes. This transfers the adaptive concept of the Rinspeed iChange Concept to the interior as well. The diamond-coated anti-slip floor is supplied by abrasives specialist KGS.

The Swiss Federal Ministry for Energy (Bundesamt für Energie) supports the „iChange" project as a groundbreaking research and development project. Solar panels on the top and sides of the roof provide electricity to the fan to keep temperatures in the Rinspeed iChange Concept comfortably low on hot summer days. The large Sharp solar panels also provide additional eco-friendly charging of the batteries.

With the Rinspeed iChange Concept Rinderknecht, a passionate C. F. Bucherer watch wearer, and his partners once more want to provide food for thought for the automotive industry. The Swiss car visionary: "If we want to maintain our individual mobility in the future we have to rethink the car in its entirety, without taboos. Most of all, we have to take its ecological aspects into consideration." And in the end everyone has to personally answer the same question: Am I ready and willing to change myself, do and can 'I change'?

[Source : RINSPEED]
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Stuttgart : February 16, 2009 – It is now 30 years since production of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class began. The Stuttgart-based car maker first unveiled this robust off-roader to the public in 1979, since when it has delivered a total of some 200,000 units of the G-Class to customers around the world. Its still striking appearance, which has remained substantially unchanged throughout its 30-year career, plus outstanding engineering, has secured this Mercedes-Benz off-roader cult status in the automotive world, and made it one of the most coveted vehicles of its type on the market.



This model family, which is acknowledged to be the best in the off-road sector, bears the succinct "G" prefix in addition to the Mercedes star, has won the Paris-Dakar Rally, is a means of transport considered fitting for the Holy Father, has become an automotive styling icon, continues to emerge victorious in reader votes and represents the gene pool for the Mercedes-Benz SUV family, which has meanwhile grown to five model series. And that is not all: with a production life of 30 years, the "G" is easily the longest-serving passenger car series in the more than 120-year history of Mercedes-Benz. Continuous model updates keep the
G-Class up to the latest technological development status and guarantee a superior drive system, but without diluting its essential character. Thanks to a combination of permanent all-wheel drive, the electronically controlled traction system 4ETS, ESP®, a "low-range" gearbox and three selectable differential locks, the G-Class is equal to any off-road challenge while ensuring the handling safety expected of a Mercedes on the road.

Last year too, both the comfort-oriented 463 series and the utility-oriented 461 series of the G-Class held their own outstandingly throughout the world. There are currently no plans to bring this success story spanning three decades to an end.

Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of Daimler AG: "We have sold 200,000 examples of the "G" to date. The vehicle is now more successful than ever, and the customers are more enthusiastic than ever. Perhaps we will be celebrating yet another major anniversary in ten years time."


The unending story begins in 1972

The development of an off-road vehicle began in 1972, with a cooperation agreement between Daimler-Benz and Steyr-Daimler-Puch in Graz, Austria. In 1975 the decision was taken to commence series production and construct new production facilities in Graz, where the G-Class is still mainly hand-assembled to this day. When the series was premiered in spring 1979, four engine variants were available with outputs from 53 kW/72 hp to 110 kW/150 hp, either as a Convertible with a short wheelbase or a Station Wagon with a short or long wheelbase. After continuous model facelifts and further development during the first ten years, a major development step was taken in 1989, when the G-family had offspring. As an addition to the revised original model with the in-house series designation 460, which was in future to be destined mainly for utility-oriented users, the range was extended with the 463-series models. With new, permanent all-wheel drive, differential locks at the front and rear axles, which now became standard equipment, and a fully lockable inter-axle differential, these marked a new technical departure. ABS also became available as an optional extra. The completely redesigned interior impressed with new comfort features such as new seats, interior body panels, a centre console, a new dashboard and exotic wood trim.

Since September 2001 the G-Class has also featured the trailblazing handling stability, traction and braking control systems ESP®, 4ETS and Brake Assist.


A full range: the current G-Class

The current model family is available in three body variants (short-wheelbase Station Wagon, long-wheelbase Station Wagon, Convertible), which can be combined with either the economical V6 CDI engine developing 165 kW/224 hp and 540 newton metres, or a powerful 5.5-litre V8 petrol engine with 285 kW/ 388 hp and 530 newton metres. The top-of-the-range G 55 AMG, which is available only as a four-door, long-wheelbase Station Wagon, has a supercharged V8-engine generating an output of 373 kW/507 hp and an impressive maximum torque of 700 newton metres. The result is shattering performance that goes together with an incomparable sound to characterise this particularly sporty version.

Another important model in the range is the G-Guard, which is based on the long-wheelbase G 500 Station Wagon. This fully-armoured special protection G-Class is certificated to protection class B6 or B7 against attacks with handguns, longarms and explosive charges of defined size.


G-Class EDITION30 and G-Class EDITION30.PUR: Spectacular special models to mark the anniversary

The fact that the G-Class was designed for operations in the most difficult terrain right from the start is made particularly clear by the special EDITION30. PUR model based on the G 280 CDI from the G 461 series. This long-wheelbase Station Wagon pays homage to the first-generation G-Model, has been optimised specifically for the toughest assignments off the beaten track and is therefore the future dream car for world travellers, expedition leaders, confirmed fans of the "G" and customers who are in search of an automotive rarity with uncompromising reliability and the ability to go anywhere. With the optional "Off-road package 1" or "Off-road package 2", the G EDITION30.PUR can be equipped for any eventuality with all-terrain tyres in size 265/75 R 16 on aluminium wheels, flexible wheel arch flaring, protective grilles for the headlamps and lights, a walk-on bonnet for easier access to the optional roofrack, a towing lug at the front and a two-section rear door. In the interior there are four individual seats upholstered in hard-wearing fabric or man-made leather, rubber floor coverings in the passenger compartment, spray-protected controls and drainage apertures in the footwells. A load compartment with a wooden floor, load lashing lugs and rails is standard, as are an auxiliary heater and manually operated air conditioning to cope with any climatic zone encountered.

With the special EDITION30 model based on the G 463 series, Mercedes-Benz is once again demonstrating the possibilities of the G-Class with respect to comfort and prestige. Externally, this long-wheelbase G 500 Station Wagon is distinguished by a designo platinum black paint finish, specially designed light-alloy wheels and EDITION30 lettering on the wings. The interior of this G 500 impresses with designo leather in the colour "chablis" and designo trim in anthracite poplar wood.

The two special models can be ordered from mid-February 2009. The "EDITION30.PUR" from the 461 series costs from 59,381 Euro incl. VAT, while the "EDITION30" based on the long-wheelbase G 500 Station Wagon is priced from 97,461 Euro incl. VAT.







[Source : DAIMLER]
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