Thursday, April 24, 2008

Beijing Auto Show: Buick Invicta by Inside Line(Video)

Buick has dusted off one of its classic nameplates — Invicta — for a new concept luxury vehicle that will be formally unveiled in mid-April at the Beijing auto show.



© Source: edmunds
We need your comments below >>

2010 Bentley Arnage - Spied

Spy photographers have captured the Bentley's updated Arnage. The next-generation Arnage isn't slated to hit the market until 2010, but Bentley execs reportedly want to create a true competitor to Rolls Royce's offerings and are getting a head start on the project. It is also possible that Bentley could offer its next-generation Arnage T with the Bugatti Veyron's quad-turbocharged W16 engine.

2010 Bentley Arnage -12010 Bentley Arnage -2Last year, Bentley fitted an Arnage prototype with Bugatti's W16 engine proving how serious they are. When the next-generation Arnage finally hits the market in 2010, look for prices to be in the neighborhood of $400,000.

© Source: carversation
We need your comments below >>

2008 Beijing Auto Show Preview Chang'an Zhixiang

CHONGQING, China — Long after teaming up with Ford and Suzuki, Chang'an Auto has retained its reputation as a leading minivehicle producer. But as it moves relentlessly toward an aggressive goal of building 2 million vehicles a year by 2010, Chang'an continues to roll out ever larger and more expensive models under its own Chana brand. Its latest unveiling, set for the 2008 Beijing Auto Show this month: the Zhixiang sedan.

Chang'an Zhixiang-1Chang'an Zhixiang-2Previously known by its internal code name CV8, the Zhixiang measures 181 inches long — about 6 inches longer than a Chang'an-built Ford Focus — and is powered by a 2.0-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine that makes 150 horsepower and 142 pound-feet of torque. Mated to a four-speed automatic transmission, the engine enables a top speed of 125 mph and 0-60-mph acceleration in 11.2 seconds.

The Zhixiang sedan will be well equipped when it goes on sale later this year, with such features as traction control, a CD player, trip computer, air-conditioning, power seats and cruise control. Prices are expected to start at around $11,400.

Chang'an's growing lineup of modern vehicles now includes the Ben Ben minicar and the Jiexun minivan (including a hybrid version of the latter). Company executives say they plan to introduce another 25 self-developed models, along with more than a dozen engines, by 2010.

What this means to you: When Ford first partnered with Chang'an, it was one of the few Chinese automakers left with no major overseas alliances. The partnership appears to be growing stronger each year.

© Source: edmunds
We need your comments below >>

BYD e6 - 2008 Beijing Auto Show

BEIJING — BYD Auto is rapidly establishing itself as China's green car company, with an ever-expanding portfolio of vehicles powered by batteries and hybrid systems. Its latest effort, a midsize electric crossover dubbed the e6, broke cover at the 2008 Beijing Auto Show.

BYD e6 This pure electric is expected to reach the China market within the next 12-24 months and could be among the initial wave of BYD models planned for export.

The e6 has a range of 186 miles on a full charge and can zip from zero to 60 mph in less than 10 seconds. Top speed is 99 mph.

No word yet on pricing, but BYD's existing range sells for $12,000-$20,000.

What this means to you: BYD continues to stretch the green envelope.

© Source: edmunds
We need your comments below >>

Shocking news for the black London cab


In 2009, the TX4E will join its diesel counterparts on the roads of London.

Black cab maker Manganese Bronze will work with British commercial electric vehicle maker Smith Electric Vehicles to develop the TX4E, which is said to have a range of 100 miles and top speed of 50mph. It will use lithium ion batteries and, claims Manganese Bronze, will cost around 4p per mile to run.

Pricing is yet to be announced but it will cost more than the usual TX4 which starts from £28,000 which will put some cab drivers off.

A conventional TX4 is exempt from emissions-based charging such as London's congestion charge, despite the automatic model emitting more than the 225g/km limit above which drivers must pay £25 to enter central London.

Dodge Journey to launch in China (CN)


Chrysler LLC will introduce 2 new vehicles to the Chinese market. First will be the Jeep Wrangler and secondly will be the Dodge Journey. The Journey will join the Dodge line-up in 2009 alongside the Caliber, Avenger and Caravan. Locally, the new crossover will be known as the JCUV.

The JCUV will open up a new market segment to Dodge in China and straight away claim best-in-class power, torque and safety features. The crossover seats 5+2 with plenty of storage space.

“This product offensive, together with an expanded and strengthened dealer network, is allowing us to continue our sustainable profitable growth in this critical market for our Company,” said Phil Murtaugh, Chief Executive Officer – Asia Operations. Four of the Chrysler Group cars are built in China, namely the Chrysler 300C and Sebring by BeijingBenz-DaimlerChrysler Automotive and the Chrysler Grand Voyager and Dodge Caravan are produced at Southeast Motor in Fuzhou.

Related link:

Wednesday, April 23, 2008

2008 Brabus Mercedes-Benz SLK

(from Brabus Press Release) The Very Latest from BRABUS for the New SLK Models
Engine Tuning With up to 445 hp (438 hp SAE net) / 327 kW and Exclusive Accessories

Concurrent with the market launch of the updated Mercedes SLK-Class, BRABUS (www.brabus.com) presents an exclusive customization program. The palette of products ranges from engine tuning with up to 445 hp (438 hp SAE net) / 327 kW of power to a sportyyet elegant aerodynamic-enhancement program, and includes custom-tailored light-alloy wheels and suspensions as well as individual interior options.

2008 Brabus Mercedes-Benz SLK-12008 Brabus Mercedes-Benz SLK-2For the top-of-the-line SLK55 AMG model, BRABUS offers its 6.1 S displacement engine. It has a rated power output of 445 hp (438 hp SAE net) / 327 kW and produces a peak torque of 635 Nm (468 lb-ft). Power is transferred to the road via a modified seven-speed automatic gearbox and a custom-developed BRABUS limited-slip differential. With a sprint time from 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) of 4.3 seconds and a top speed of 305 km/h (191 mph) the BRABUS tuned roadster sets new standards in its class.

All BRABUS engines are lubricated with ARAL high-performance motor oil and all are backed by the one-of-a-kind BRABUS Tuning Warranty of three years or 100,000 kilometers/62,000 miles (see BRABUS warranty conditions as of November 2006).

The installation of the BRABUS stainless-steel sport exhaust system is beneficial not only for tuned engines. Its four chrome-plated tailpipes give the SLK a more exclusive appearance and produce an even more sonorous exhaust note on all SLK engines.

For the updated SLK the BRABUS designers have once again made use of the wind tunnel to develop an aerodynamic-enhancement package in OEM quality that in combination with the chrome-plated BRABUS roadster roll bars lends the two-seater a sporty yet elegant appearance.

The striking BRABUS front spoiler reduces lift on the front axle at high speeds. BRABUS headlamp inserts with daytime running lights further improve driving safety.

© Source: seriouswheels
We need your comments below >>