Showing posts with label auto news. Show all posts
Showing posts with label auto news. Show all posts

Wednesday, February 20, 2008

Alan Mulally wants an FG Falcon

But is he getting one for himself? One could certainly infer that's the case based on this GoAuto article, which reports that the Ford CEO was so blown away by the Falcon G6E Turbo he sampled at an Australian test facility that he told Trevor Worthington (Ford Australia's product-development veep), "I want one." And that brings us to the question of the day: is the head of Ford really bringing over a new Falcon for himself to drive?

2008 Ford FG Falcon2008 Ford FG Falcon-2Because while we in the peanut gallery generally agree that the Blue Oval stuff in Europe and Australia has it all over the American-market offerings (Mustang and F-Series excluded), there would be no greater acknowledgment of this than the CEO of Ford cruising around in a desirable RHD-only Aussie sedan while we make do with the Taurus, which even the execs recently made fun of. Americans will need to wait for the arrival of the new global RWD platform that's set to underpin multiple US-market rear-drivers sometime in the early 2010s, assuming Ford doesn't hedge like GM and use CAFE as an excuse to temper expectations regarding RWD models in the States.

© Source: autoblog
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Wednesday, February 13, 2008

Lancia Delta Official Brochure reveals Pricing

We are still waiting for the final material, but after having seen the three official photos that have provoked a widespread debate amongst readers of our Italian blog, new information has begun circulating in the form of a brochure revealing, in part, the pricing of the new Lancia Delta.

Lancia DeltaLancia Delta-2A pricing hierarchy of three specification levels will apparently be proposed: the Argento (silver), Oro (gold) and Platino (platinum) each with differing degrees of equipment and finish. The 120bhp 1.4 T-Jet turbocharged gasoline engine will probably not be available in the top-spec Platino version, for which the 190 ps 1.9 Multijet twin-stage turbo-diesel is expected to be finally put under an Italian hood (it was first used in the Saab 9-3 in a 180 ps power-step).

The initial pricing, at least on the Austrian market, gives us an hint as to the positioning of the Lancia Delta on the European market as a whole: The 1.4 T-jet will cost 22,100 € in the Argento spec and 24,340 € for the 1.6 Multijet in the same spec. For the 150bhp 1.4 T-jet Platino spec, 27,500 € will be needed. As a point of reference, the Austrian Fiat website displays a price of 17,990 € for the Fiat Bravo 120bhp 1.4 Turbojet Active.

Also included in the brochure are a number of performance statistics. The 120 bhp 1.4 T-jet promises a top speed of 190 km/h and an acceleration from 0 to 100km/h in 10 seconds with an average fuel consumption of 6.8 litres/100km, whilst the 150bhp petrol version should reach 206 km/h and will reduce the acceleration time to 8.2 seconds with an average fuel consumption of 7.2 litres/100km.

The 120bhp 1.6 Multijet is confirmed as the most economic with an average fuel consumption of only 4.9 litres/100km, with a top speed of 186 km/h and an acceleration of 0-100km/h in 11 seconds. For all of the Deltas the minimum size of the tyres will be 205/55 on 16" rims, with five other different types of optional alloy rims at 17" and 18" and tyres up to the 225/40 Pirelli PZero Rossos.

© Source: eurocarblog
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Wednesday, February 6, 2008

2009 Chevrolet Traverse Preview

Chevrolet will join the trio of big GM crossovers with a fourth family vehicle, the Traverse.

On display at the Chicago auto show, the Traverse is based on the same mechanicals as the Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook. Chevrolet says it's targeting the likes of the Ford Edge, Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot with the new seven- or eight-passenger Traverse.

2009 Chevrolet Traverse2009 Chevrolet Traverse-22009 Chevrolet Traverse-3The Traverse, which goes on sale in the fall as ewsa 2009 model, shares some of the styling themes applied to the award-winning n008 Chevrolet Malibu, GM says in a release. It's a distinct look with more crisp lines than either the Enclave or Outlook; details like the tailgate spoiler and a chromed grille surround give it a personality separate from the other big GM triplets. The Traverse's dual-cockpit design and large gauges tie it with other recent Chevrolet efforts.

The Traverse will be offered in three trim levels: LS, LT, and LTZ. Each trim will be available in front- or all-wheel drive. A range of 17-, 18-, and 20-inch wheels will be offered, as will interior features like XM, OnStar, a rear-seat entertainment system, a panoramic sunroof and Bluetooth.

The standard engine is GM's 3.6-liter V-6 with 281 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic is the sole transmission. Standard safety features include six airbags; anti-lock brakes; traction and stability control.

Other options will include a rearview camera, rear parking assist, a power liftgate; a DVD entertainment system; a navigation system; heated mirrors; and remote start.

© Source: thecarconnection
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Monday, January 21, 2008

Lexus IS-F Racing Concept

Tucked away at the Tokyo tuner show, details on this track version of Lexus's M3 rival remain sketchy. All we know is that it looks truly mean.

The massive front aero kit and rear spoiler hint that the racing IS-F could compete in Germany's DTM series. But the word on the show floor is that the car is nothing more than the pet project of IS-F chief engineer Yukihiko Yaguchi. As pet projects go, it's a good 'un.

Lexus IS-F Racing ConceptLexus IS-F Racing Concept-2In unrelated related news, we also hear that an IS-F will compete in this year's Super GT championship in Japan. That's the same series the awesome GT-R racer we saw earlier this month will enter, although the IS-F will compete in the GT300 class, not the Nissan's GT500 division.

Best of all, the IS-F GT300 is likely to be mid-engined, a revelation that Super GT officials have described as 'crazy' and we describe as a thoroughly good idea.

© Source: topgear
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Saturday, January 19, 2008

2008 Motor City UAV Rolls-Royce Phantom by Tommy Z Design

(from Tommy Z Design) New from Tommy Z Design, the 2008 Motor City UAV Phantom. This plush Rolls Royce features a few upgrades for the current Phantom owners. 24" TIS or Forgiato wheel options with Michelin run flat 305/35/24 tires from Chrome Automotive Group . Other options include clear flashing corner lights , shatterproof rear glass , performance enhanced air intake and exhaust with PCM upgrade. The car is painted in a amethyst, anthracite color and features a onyx black leather interior with walnut burl accents. For entertaining, a 6 cd/dvd changer and satelite TV can be enjoyed from the rear stadium style seating.

Tommy Z Design Rolls-Royce PhantomThe vehicle also features veneered picnic tables in seatbacks, power assist for rear doors, 4 year unlimited warrany , 6.7 liter 48 valve v12 Rolls Royce engine with 460 horsepower. The car also features dynamic stability control and the ultimate in traction control.

The mighty V12 engine produces 531 ft•lbf (720 N•m) of torque. The engine is derived from BMW's existing V12 powerplant. It is 1.63 m (63 in) tall, 1.99 m (74.8 in) wide, 5.83 m (228 in) long, and weighs 2485 kg (5478 lb). The body of the car is built on an aluminium spaceframe and the Phantom can accelerate to 60 mph (100 km/h) in 5.7 s. It has a six-speed automatic transmission and double wishbone suspension.

An extended wheelbase Phantom was presented in the Rolls Royce display at NAIAS, which is 250 mm longer than the standard Phantom.

This vehicle is located in the Featured vehicles section in the DUB showcase display at the 2008 North American International Auto Show. www.tommyzdesign.com - www.dubmagazine.com

© Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Auto Futura CAV GT

(from CAV Press Release) The CAV GT is performance and power refined in a seamless body. Expect the same gut-wrenching experience and white-knuckle acceleration on road and track. Expect that, and more. It takes time and dedication to build a CAV GT. Six hundred man-hours is devoted to the development of each vehicle from the construction of the chassis to the time it leaves our factory.

2008 Auto Futura CAV GT2008 Auto Futura CAV GT-2Our committed team shares a vision to manufacture a quality product that will provide pleasure and pride to its owners. In addition to our staff based at Westlake, Cape Town, we employ subcontractors who share our work ethic and exacting standards. To achieve the quality we strive for in every CAV GT each step of the manufacturing process is meticulously planned. Our extensive R&D has enabled us to create enhancements to the CAV GT for improved road and track performance.

The perfect body is created through a specialist shaping and spraying process that is subcontracted to a team dedicated solely to this outcome. The body is baked several times so that it is cured and stable before a final spray painting. The whole process takes 200 man-hours before it is ready to leave the paint shop. On its return to our factory, the body panels are removed and carefully stored.

Engine
The CAV GT is designed to accept a Ford V8 small block 289/302 cid. A 351 can also be used. Induction Holley 4 barrel or 4 x 48IDF Webers or Injection System. Recommended power unit 342 stroker with approximately 450bhp SAE. Fuel injection system on request.Electronic breakerless ignition is recommended.

© Source: seriouswheels
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Tuesday, January 15, 2008

Detroit autoshow 2008 Hang Ten with Tang Hua

A trio of bright yellow Dr. Suess-mobiles are being displayed by the Chinese company in the basement of COBO. As you might imagine, Chinese cars don't necessarily get that much respect here in Detroit, but when they look like these three Disneyland rejects, showgoers can't help but smile. Or laugh. And they don't even have the decency to run on dead dino juice, so that just makes them even more comical here in Motor City.

Tang HuaTang Hua-2Tang Hua-3Each of these three "neighborhood electric vehicles" has its own charms, but we tend to like the amphibious one above the best. And what better customer to espouse your product than the "Renowned environmentalists - President Bush..."

© Source: autoblog
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Sunday, January 13, 2008

2008 Honda Pilot Concept

The new Honda Pilot was presented at the Detroit auto show, as a thinly disguised concept car. The production version, dubbed a 2009 model, goes on sale in the spring.

The Pilot rides on a newly redesigned version of its front- or all-wheel-drive platform. In passing, the Pilot prototype bears a resemblance to Ford's Explorer America concept. Honda says it's a bolder look, with "authentic" SUV styling.

2008 Honda Pilot Concept2008 Honda Pilot Concept-2Under its hood the Pilot pulls its load with a V-6 engine outfitted with Honda's variable-displacement system, which can operate the V-6 in four-cylinder and three-cylinder modes to boost fuel economy.

Inside the Pilot keeps its eight-passenger seating arrangement. And since it's larger inside this time around--by how much Honda's not saying just yet--the third-row seat will be easier to access, and there will be more room for people and cargo inside. The front two chairs are captain's chairs, Honda adds, while the second row is split 60/40, as is the rear bench. Both the second and third row fold flat to create a large cargo area.

The Pilot was penned in Honda's U.S. design studios, and will continue to be built in the company's plant in Lincoln, Ala.

© Source: thecarconnection
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2009 Volkswagen Passat CC Preview

The destined-for-production model unveiled at Volkswagen's Detroit show stand undeniably has more than a little extra dash of panache compared to the Passat sedan.

2009 Volkswagen Passat CCThe so-called 2009 Volkswagen Passat CC not only bears the name of one of one of America's most popular on-a-budget family sedans; it has a similar size overall, too. Just a little bit of utility is sacrificed for a lot more style and flair, along with a host of high-tech features, to create a product that promises to be more desirable and exclusive.

Having learned its lesson with the big, expensive Phaeton, VW looks to be reaching upscale from the Passat with a new, more incremental strategy as it bolsters its product line with products like the upcoming Tiguan.

The swoopy, "four-door coupe" design is supported with details that maintain the car's luster up close and do set it apart from the mainstream Passat, like frameless doors and a contrasting mix of smooth transitions, such as that from the back window seamlessly into the trunk, and expressive creases, such as those which form behind the front wheels, become bolder, and form a sharp crease that wraps around and functions as a decklid spoiler.

In Europe, the Passat CC will come with a variety of engines, including two different common-rail turbodiesel four-cylinder engines and three different direct-injection gasoline four- and six-cylinder engines. In the U.S., the Passat CC will come with the same powertrains as the pedestrian Passat - either with VW's familiar 2.0-liter FSI turbocharged four-cylinder, making 200 horsepower, or with the 280-hp, 3.6-liter V-6 and 4Motion all-wheel drive. A six-speed manual or six-speed automatic will be offered on the 2.0 FSI, while the 3.6 will get a six-speed automatic with Tiptronic shift control.

© Source: thecarconnection
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Wednesday, January 2, 2008

Mazda Protege

If you've got an '02 Mazda Protege, is it enough to add turbocharging and nitrous? No? How about a lurid green-and-orange paint job? Sorry, but you need to have a truck bed on your turbocharged, nitrous-enhanced Protege before you've earned any bragging rights.

Mazda ProtegeFortunately, such a vehicle is available right now on eBay Motors, with a Buy It Now price just under 20 grand. We figure this truckcar should be called a Protegechero rather than a Protegamino due to Mazda's long relationship with Ford, but we're willing to listen to arguments from the pro-Protegamino faction. Let's hope LeMons-winning Team Red Meat and Poontang takes the hint and adds a truck bed to their race car ASAP!

© Source: jalopnik
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Brammo Ariel Atom (Enertia GT) - Fast and furious

Brammo, the makers of the Ariel Atom have decided to go green with their latest super-car. Instead of the original gas guzzling V12 engine, the Enertia GT will now sport a completely electric engine.

Enertia GTThe car will be just as quick off the line, however top speed may suffer. The price of the Ariel Atom is $40,000 ($90,000 with all upgrades). There is no word on how much the electric Enertia GT will cost, the electric motor shouldn’t offset the price too much. That is a sport car!

© Source: luxurich
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Friday, December 28, 2007

DiMora Natalia SLS 2 Telling features defining luxury worth $2 million

For those who have a penchant for everything most expensive, the Natalia SLS 2 from DiMora Motorcar is the next big thing. The hotly awaited $2 million super-sedan is in the works for now and the latest news from the company is that the luxury car will come equipped with the HeatFlexx electrically-heated frameless windshield wiper.

The Natalia SLS 2 sport luxury sedan is the world’s most expensive production automobile. The electrically-heated HeatFlexx windshield wiper speedily melts ice and snow. The frameless design of the all-season blade offers incessant even pressure to the windshield, thereby reducing streaks while reducing wind lift at speeds up to 150 mph. The new HeatFlexx system, which is designed by Von Stach Products, is considered to be one of the most novel inventions in the automotive industry this year.

Other powerful specs of the luxury coupe include variable-cylinder, aluminum DiMora Volcano V16 engine pumping out 1200 horsepower, aerodynamic construction with stylish interiors, 50 computer systems controlling every aspect of this sport luxury sedan, unique beverage holders, expected four-wheel steering system, 24-inch rims coated in special run-flat tires, color change technology, and spa facility for the rear seat passengers who will be provided with a soothing high-tech massage.

DiMora wants Natalia to set the standard for 21st century automotive excellence. There is no word on release date, so we need to sit back a while and wait for the world’s most luxurious, expensive, and technologically-advanced creation to hit the roads.

© Source: bornrich
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Wednesday, December 26, 2007

Mazda Premacy Cool Style

The Mazda Premacy Cool Style concept car will be showcased at next year's Tokyo Auto Salon.

Mazda PremacyMazda Premacy-2The Mazda Premacy Cool Style concept is a customized version of the Premacy with its exterior painted in a luminescent black and chrome parts which appear to sparkle in one focused point on the front and rear. The Mazda Premacy Cool Style also features a black leather interior.

© Source: zercustoms
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2008 Nissan Fuga

The 2008 Nissan Fuga features two new engines: the VQ35HR and VQ25HR. The 2008 Nissan Fuga is also the first vehicle to be equipped with Nissan's Distance Control Assist (Intelligent Pedal) System. The 2008 Nissan Fuga price ranges from 3,969,000 yen to 6,279,000 yen.

2008 Nissan Fuga2008 Nissan Fuga-2The new Fuga features a revised model lineup, a redesigned exterior and interior, Nissan's new VQ35HR and VQ25HR engines and the world's first*1 Distance Control Assist (Intelligent Pedal) System*2, among other refinements, the combination of which further advances the car's all-around qualities as a premium sports sedan.
Living up to its marketing tagline of “SHIFT_luxury,” Fuga transforms the traditional notion of a luxury car. Fuga is available in three grades (GT, GT Type S and GT Type P) for three engine variations (V6 2.5-liter, V6 3.6-liter and V8 4.5-liter). 4WD version is available for 350GT.

A Responsive Driveline
Fuga showcases the latest in Nissan engine technology with its choice of 3.5-liter VQ35HR and 2.5-liter VQ25HR engines, which combine high levels of power and torque with low fuel consumption, as well as producing sounds that befit its position as a sports luxury machine.

Both powerplants are backed by a standard full-range electronically controlled 5-speed automatic transmission with a DS mode. The DS mode works to provide maximum performance by optimizing gear selection for the applicable driving conditions. Additional control is available through magnesium paddle shifters, which are standard on the GT Type S model. (4.5-liter VK45DE engine is also available for 2WD models.)

© Source: zercustoms
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2009 Toyota Corolla Road Test

Base price: $15,000 (est.)
Engine: 1.8-liter four, 132 hp/128 lb-ft; XRS: 2.4-liter four, 158 hp/162 lb-ft
Transmission: Five-speed manual or four-speed automatic (base models); five-speed manual or five-speed automatic (XRS); front-wheel drive
Length x width x height: 178.7 x 69.3 x 57.7 in
Wheelbase: 102.4 in
Curb weight: 2,723-2,965 lb
Fuel economy (EPA city/hwy): 27/35 mpg (1.8-liter); 22/29 mpg (manual 2.4-liter), 22/30 mpg (automatic 2.4-liter)
Safety features: Dual front, side and curtain airbags anti-lock brakes; stability control standard on XRS Major standard features: Air conditioning; power steering; tilt/telescopic steering wheel; 60/40 split folding rear seat; AM/FM/CD (XM satellite ready) radio; outside temperature gauge; two 12-volt power outlets; driver vertical seat height adjuster
Warranty: Three years/36,000 miles

2009 Toyota Corolla2009 Toyota Corolla-2For starters, we think this new Corolla is far better looking than the near-invisible car it replaces early next year. And it steps up in power and torque to a 158-hp, 162 lb-ft, 2.4-liter 16-valve VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with "intelligence") four-cylinder engine...but only in the sportiest XRS model. The other four models, from bargain-basement base through better-equipped LE, XLE and semi-sporty S, make do with a fairly anemic 132-hp (up from the 2008 Corolla's 126) dual-VVT-i 16-valve four that pumps out just 128 lb-ft of twist (up from 122). That compares to a healthier 140 horses and an identical 128 lb-ft for the Civic's same-size four and 148 hp and a much stronger 152 lb-ft for the base '08 Cobalt's 2.2-liter four.

These new Toyota Corolla sedans roll on the same 102.4-in.wheelbase as their predecessors but sit 0.4 inches longer, 2.8 inches wider and 0.8 inches lower. The added width provides additional shoulder and hip room in front, though (for some reason) a couple inches less rear hip room. Leg room is increased about a half-inch in front and nearly an inch in back, but front head room is down a half-inch due to the lower roofline. The overall result is a slightly roomier, quieter and more comfortable cabin usable for four adults but very tight for five.

© Source: thecarconnection
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Monday, December 24, 2007

2008 Suzuki XL7 Review

Introduction
If Costco's Kirkland Signature brand were to sell a car it would probably be a lot like the 2008 Suzuki XL7. Like the many Kirkland items, the XL7 is bulk-sized, with lots of features at a low price and an overall quality that slightly trails that of big-name brands. While you may not strive to own a Kirkland product or a Suzuki, it's hard to argue with the family-friendly value that each provides.

2008 Suzuki XL72008 Suzuki XL7-2The second-generation XL7 is the largest SUV Suzuki has ever produced, dipping generously into partner GM's parts bin to create a mostly unique end product. Under the skin is a stretched platform shared with the Chevy Equinox and Pontiac Torrent twins, but the XL7 boasts its own distinctive styling (check out those funky headlights) and a 3.6-liter V6 engine designed by General Motors, but built by Suzuki in Japan. Even though it's equipped with only five seats, the base XL7 provides more maximum cargo capacity than a Honda Pilot at a price that rivals the Honda CR-V. Other trims offer a fold-flat third-row seat that provides enough room for children and maintains the ample storage capacity.

But if price seems to be a running theme, that's no mistake. Considering that the 2008 Suzuki XL7 is priced similar to compact crossovers like the Toyota RAV4, the Suzuki's quality difference versus the big boys isn't large enough to completely disregard the significant discount it provides. Whether you're buying a 3-liter tub of Kirkland cashews or a $26,000 SUV, value is difficult to ignore.

Powertrains and Performance
The 2008 XL7 features a 3.6-liter V6 that delivers 252 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque. It is connected to a five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control. All trim levels are available with all-wheel drive except the base model, which is front-drive only. In performance testing a FWD XL7 went to 60 mph in a tidy 8.2 seconds. Fuel economy estimates for 2008 are 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway for front-wheel-drive models, while all-wheel-drive versions rate practically the same, dropping the city rating by only 1 mpg. These figures are on par with other vehicles in the class.

© Source: edmunds
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Wednesday, December 19, 2007

2008 Aptera Typ-1

(from Aptera Press Release) The Aptera was designed from the ground up as an electric vehicle, and later as an extended range electric vehicle. After building the proof-of-concept Mk-0, we hired the automotive design firm, 'eleven', to help us further develop the concept vehicle. The 'eleven' team, led by Jason Hill and Nathan Armstrong, made great strides in the development of the Aptera's body styling, interior design, and structural engineering.

style=style=style=Meanwhile, we refined the Aptera's shape to maximize efficiency using CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics), developed and built advanced suspension and drivetrain components, and integrated a strong yet lightweight composite shell. Our entire process has been developed in-house exclusively by Aptera for the Aptera Typ-1. Our structural elements have undergone countless revisions of FEA (Finite Element Analysis) to be lightweight, robust, and manufacturable. Based on our wheel layout and our weight, the Aptera Typ-1 is registered as a motorcyle.

In fact, Aptera is a motorcycle manufacturer registered with DOT and CA DMV. This means, among other things, that we are able to issue VIN's. Our 'world identifier number' is '5WT', so all of our VIN's begin with '5WT'. Knowing the public perception of motorcycle safety, we made the decision to make safety a fundamental part of the design of our vehicles. For example, the Typ-1 roof is designed to EXCEED rollover strength requirements spelled out in FMVSS 216 for passenger vehicles. The doors EXCEED the strength requirement spelled out in FMVSS 214.

Electric & Gasoline Hybrid
The Typ-1 uses a commoditized, 'ruggedized' 3-phase motor controller designed for vehicular applications, and a 3-phase motor made for us by a company here in Southern California. The rear drive suspension, and the drive reduction, are all designed and made by Aptera. Since the Typ-1e (electric) and the Typ-1h (series plug in hybrid) have different battery needs, this may result in different battery manufacturers for the two models. The Typ-1e is designed to use a 10 KWh pack, while the Typ-1h uses a smaller pack. The cycles and DOD are different for both applications. We will announce further information regarding the battery lifespan and warranty policy well before we begin manufacturing the Typ-1 next October.

Diesel or Gasoline? Our first prototype, the Mk-0, was a parallel hybrid Diesel and achieved an average of 230 MPG at a steady state of 55 MPH. This was pure Diesel/mechanical drive with no electric assist. Diesel is attractive for its Carnot efficiency and the increased enthalpy of Diesel fuel vs gasoline. However, diesel contains lots of unburned hydrocarbons and NOX compounds, and it's impossible to get a small Diesel engine certified for emissions in California. Therefore, the typ-h uses a small, water-cooled EFI Gasoline engine with closed loop oxygen feedback and catalytic converter. This engine is coupled to a lightweight 12KW starter/generator. It's very clean and quiet.

© Source: seriouswheels
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Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Ascari A10

The Ascari A10 has smashed the Top Gear lap record.

The Stig piloted the V8-engined, 625bhp supercar around our test track in just 1m 17.3, shaving three-tenths of a second off the previous record held by the Koenigsegg CCX with the Top Gear spoiler.

Ascari A10Ascari A10-2With a claimed 0-60mph time of just 2.8 seconds and the ability to hit 100mph in under six seconds, the Ascari A10 was always going to be quick - but that lap time is simply astonishing.

Best of all, the A10 is British built, in Ascari's Banbury factory - albeit around the German engine off the old BMW M5.

If you reckon the A10 sounds like the sort of car that'd look good on your driveway, well, you'll need about £350,000 (and a very understanding partner) to make it happen. All that cash buys you a lot of carbon fibre, that amazing sequential 'box and, erm, not a lot else.

A few weeks ago, the Caparo T1 lapped our track even quicker than the Ascari but was disqualified from the power laps board because it is unable to clear a speed bump. The Ascari, on the other hand, has a raising hydraulic nose, allowing it to take its rightful place atop the board.

© Source: topgear
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Friday, November 30, 2007

2008 AC Schnitzer ACS3 Sport based on BMW M3

AC Schnitzer refines the fastest 3-Series Coupe
When beads of perspiration form on the brow of experienced sports car drivers, it's not necessarily down to a faulty air conditioning system. With the 420 V8-HP of the BMW M3, the ACS3 Sport catapults even its keenest challengers into the rear view mirror. The sporting coupe is ideal for anyone seeking to gain advantage on twisting tracks.

2008 AC Schnitzer ACS3 Sport2008 AC Schnitzer ACS3 Sport-22008 AC Schnitzer ACS3 Sport-3A normal M3 would be a tough competitor here, because in comparison with the "civilised" 3-series Coupй it has a totally different axle construction. With racing suspension developed on the legendary Nerburgring, AC Schnitzer has succeeded in refining the handling potential of the chassis even further. And fitted with the Short Shift from Aachen, the ACS3 Sport becomes the automotive hero of the day: No-one is changing gears faster!

Best of all: The vehicle loses nothing of its qualities as a daily driver. Instead, AC Schnitzer magics even more M-otion into everyday life, for example when the Aachen exhaust system plays its bewitching baritone in a road tunnel. The left/right system with two tailpipes per side, linked into a horizontal figure of eight, is however a visual work of art. In a play on the mathematical symbol for "infinity", at the same time it symbolises the powerful reserves of the vehicle which reaches 100 km/h from a standing start in an effortless 4.8 seconds. No less carefully arranged are the aerodynamic attachments, which for AC Schnitzer are always more than mere visual decoration. Finally the AC Schnitzer racing rims Type VI embody pure culture, on the ACS3 Sport in sizes 9.0J x 20" on the front and 10.5J x 20" on the rear. The combination of Y-spokes and contrasting five fork spokes superimposed in two planes, produces a design that is as exciting as it is elegant.

Further highlights of course include the forged wheel Type V in 20". With its strikingly curved, interrupted spokes, it not only looks superb but thanks to the lightweight construction method, keeps the unsprung weight to a minimum. A no less attractive alternative is the Type IV racing wheel in silver - and with trendy black finish as "Magic Black”. And naturally AC Schnitzer continues the theme of sports performance in the driver's workplace, offering attractive and ergonomically perfect aluminium controls for the gearknob, handbrake handle, pedals and i-Drive controller. A carbon interior trim and sports airbag steering wheel are also available on request.

© Source: seriouswheels

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Tuesday, November 27, 2007

2008 Lamborghini Reventon vs Tornado Jet Fighter

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

The fighter pilot and the Lamborghini test driver challenged each other on the 3000 (1.86 miles) m-long runway.
The Reventуn took the lead in the first leg of the race, but the Tornado caught up in the last few metres, taking off and flying over the Reventуn that was going at a speed of over 340 km/h.

2008 Lamborghini Reventon2008 Lamborghini Reventon-22008 Lamborghini Reventon-32008 Lamborghini Reventon-4The Ghedi military base was chosen as the venue at which to present the Lamborghini super car to international TV networks. The ideal environment in which to emphasise the Reventуn’s aeronautic styling, the airbase was made available to Lamborghini by General Carlo Landi of the Fifth Department of the Stato Maggiore dell A.M, and Colonel Aurelio of the Sixth Formation.

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

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

© Source: seriouswheels
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