Car Magazine

Mini Paceman Concept (2011)

2010-12-19T19:55:00.000-08:00

Mini Paceman Concept (2011)

A new MINI design concept will make its debut at the 2011 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) which will be held between January 10 and 23, 2011. The MINI Paceman Concept is the first Sports Activity Coupé in the premium small segment of the market.

The MINI Paceman Concept study establishes a new category of car combining the fundamental MINI DNA - dynamic capability, individual design - and gives them a fresh twist with the help of cutting edge technology and an innovative new body concept. The MINI Paceman combines the classical MINI concept with the defining features of the MINI Countryman and the style of a coupe. The result is a MINI with visual 'muscle car' design cues, displaying its dynamic capability from every angle.

Although no decision has been made about a future production version, Paceman could form yet another building block in the development of the MINI brand.

"It is ten years exactly since the new MINI was launched to the US market so there is a happy symmetry in presenting an all-new concept at the Detroit Show" said Jochen Goller, MINI Director for BMW UK Ltd. "Following last year's launch of the MINI Countryman and the forthcoming launches of the MINI Coupé and Roadster, the MINI Paceman Concept shows once again not only the innovative spirit and adventure among its design team, but also the potential breadth of the MINI brand as it grows and develops."

A MINI Sports Activity Coupé - urban and masculine.

The MINI Paceman Concept retains the familiar MINI family frontal appearance but adds its own distinctive flavour. Large headlights with chrome surrounds extend deep into the front wings and, together with the distinctively contoured bonnet, emphasise the imposing nose of the Paceman. The radiator grille is essentially the same as that of the Cooper S Countryman barring additional air intakes in the bumper to deliver improved brake ventilation and the incorporation of new deep set fog lights.

From the side the MINI Paceman Concept features a fresh interpretation of the front wing and side indicator that attracts the eye from the A-pillars down to the unique design 19 inch front wheels. This rugged and sturdy design element is complemented by dark wheel arch surrounds with matching side skirts that emphasize the masculine, sporting nature of Paceman.

The familiar MINI shoulder line that rises towards the rear of the MINI Paceman Concept also hints at its sporting intent. Less familiar is the glass and roof treatment. As the waistline rises the flat roofline flows into a wide C-pillar that appears to be transparent. The windows appear to wrap around the car like a band of glass with the roof 'suspended' on top and painted in a striking, contrasting colour. This is known as the 'helmet' roof. The coupé-style windows taper towards the rear and the whole effect is one of a dynamic wedge shape.

"In contrast to the more vertical design of the MINI Countryman, we've given the MINI Paceman Concept a horizontal emphasis and accentuated the width of the car rather more to underline the powerful appearance of the study" explained Marcus Syring, Head of MINI Exterior Design.

A new interpretation of the classic coupé design has given the MINI Paceman Concept a distinctive coupé tail that complements the athletic character of the car. New rear lights positioned at the outer edges of the broad, muscular rear wings underline the dominance of horizontal lines, which run parallel to one another and emphasise the wide track of the rear axle.

As with the MINI Cooper S Countryman, the rear apron of the MINI Paceman Concept features a diffuser that channels the airflow between the twin exhausts and further enhances the car's aerodynamic properties. Even the licence plate recess echoes the form of the front air intake in order to forge a stylistic link between the front and rear of the car.

The MINI Paceman Concept measures 4,110 millimetres in length, 1,789 millimetres in width and 1,541 millimetres in height. In archetypal MINI style, the Paceman has extremely short front and rear overhangs to facilitate the familiar go kart driving responses.

Interior: a blend of modern function and luxurious character.

The interior of the MINI Paceman Concept deliberately draws on MINI's unique and distinctive design language, yet it also imparts a refreshing new look. Behind the study's masculine exterior lies an elegant yet sporty interior environment that exudes premium quality and funky design. The instrument panel of the MINI study is defined by its distinctive, concave forms and the sporting yet functional impression it creates. The central air vents, Central Speedo and gearshift lever feature outer rings in a contrasting colour while large side air vents underline the MINI character still further.

The slim centre console, which maximises legroom for the driver and front passenger, coalesces into the Centre Rail pioneered by the MINI Countryman, thereby creating a visual and functional link between the front and rear seats. This unique and innovative U-profile rail system runs along the centreline of the passenger compartment as far as the rear seat backrests. Light shades of leather lend an expression of luxurious allure to the interior of the MINI Paceman, while a new interpretation of the brand's familiar elliptical door and side trim extends along the length of the cabin, taking in the B-pillar and emphasising the length of the interior. Shaped armrests with large stowage compartments, ergonomically designed door pulls and the speakers for the sound system are embedded in the main element of this ellipse.

Behind the front sports seats are two comfortably-shaped individual rear seats designed with backrests that merge distinctively into the seat sides in order to create fully contoured passenger support. The "club lounge" character thus created underlines the individual and unconventional nature of the MINI Paceman Concept and helps turn every journey into an experience for the rear passengers every bit as much as it is for those in the front.

Drive system: powerful and efficient.

The MINI Paceman Concept has been designed to allow the deployment of the most powerful engine currently available in the MINI palette. The MINI John Cooper Works 1.6-litre twin-scroll turbocharged engine gives the MINI Paceman Concept the capacity to deliver the outstanding performance its appearance promises. This 16 valve, four cylinder unit develops 211 hp and generates maximum torque of 260 Nm (192 lb-ft), the latter value having the capacity to reach 280 Nm (207 lb-ft) in brief bursts thanks to the Overboost function.

Its MINI Countryman roots give this new MINI concept study an ideal platform for the MINI ALL4 permanent all-wheel-drive system. ALL4 features an electromagnetic centre differential positioned directly on the final drive which varies the distribution of power seamlessly between the front and rear axles. In normal driving conditions up to 50 per cent of the drive is sent to the rear wheels, but in extreme situations as much as 100 per cent can be directed to the rear.

The MINI Paceman Concept is, of course, also available in two wheel drive form but harnessing the power of the punchy four-cylinder engine in all-wheel-drive form offers an extra dose of driving fun through a traction-led, sporting expression of the agile handling for which MINI is famed.

Chassis: the best handling characteristics in the segment.

MINI chassis technology has been especially developed for the MINI Paceman Concept to transform the potential of its potent engine into a driving experience that offers inspiring agility, impressive poise and always in complete safety. While it delivers precise and sporting handling it is the high standard of compliant ride comfort that truly sets the MINI Paceman Concept apart.

The front axle features MacPherson spring struts with lower track control arms which, combined with Electric Power Steering with speed-sensitive power assistance, plays a major role in delivering the response and agility customers expect from a MINI. The Paceman's multi-link rear axle was developed using proven BMW Group chassis expertise and is designed for use in both the front-wheel-drive and the ALL4 all-wheel-drive versions of the car.

MINI Paceman Concept: an idea ahead of the game - once again.

The MINI Paceman Concept embodies the idea of an incomparable driving experience in a way that meets the needs of modern, lifestyle-oriented customers but it also remains true to the character of the MINI brand.

"With the MINI Countryman having already opened up a fascinating new avenue in the expansion of the brand family, the designers are now tapping into the potential of its state-of-the-art drive technology and flexible space concept to develop additional market opportunities in a coupé sibling" explained Jochen Goller.

"The MINI Paceman Concept aims to deliver a particularly emotional driving experience and demonstrates this ability in a style typical of the brand. I believe we are offering clear evidence of how totally new vehicle concepts can still be developed through unconventional creativity" he concluded.

2003-Bugatti-Veyron-16-4 fron rare dashboard pictures wallpapers Gallery

2009-10-03T04:47:00.000-07:00

2003-Bugatti-Veyron-16-4 fron rare dashboard pictures wallpapers Gallery

Bently Gts Black Edition Car fron,rare,dashboard,wheel,outer,inner view,pictures,wallpapers Gallery

2009-10-03T04:43:00.000-07:00

Bently Gts Black Edition Car fron,rare,dashboard,wheel,outer,inner view,pictures,wallpapers Gallery

599 GTB Fiorano Hamann 2007

2009-06-13T09:47:00.000-07:00

360 Modena JNH 2007

2009-06-13T09:31:00.000-07:00

BMW M3 Convertible 2009

2009-06-13T06:26:00.000-07:00

Land Rover Range Rover Sport 2010

2009-06-13T06:03:00.000-07:00

BMW X6 M 2009

2009-06-13T05:45:00.000-07:00

Bmw M3 Alms Race Car 2009

2009-06-13T05:40:00.000-07:00

Super Fast Car of The Week (Edo Lamborghini Murcielago 2009)

2009-06-13T05:34:00.000-07:00

BMW 1 Series Convertible 2008

2009-06-13T00:08:00.000-07:00

Porsche Panamera Turbo 2010

2009-06-13T00:04:00.000-07:00

Ferrari California Production 2009

2009-06-12T23:45:00.000-07:00

Lamborghini Insecta Concept Design 2009

2009-06-12T23:41:00.000-07:00

The NEOPLAN Cityliner

2009-01-06T02:52:00.000-08:00

Cityliner picture gallery. Here you can find the most attractive views and fascinating details of this model.i love this bus and more than love i'm lovin'it .

Launched in September 2006 at the IAA Commercial Vehicles, the new Cityliner is already causing a buzz among the public and trade visitors.

Bildergalerie Sky Double Decker

2009-01-05T03:39:00.000-08:00

Amazing Look Bildergalerie Sky Double Decker Outlook .This Giant bus has no like other .
Gateway

Interior side where stairs Goes Upstairs
Smart Engine
Comfortable seats Like you'r in Aeroplane.
Exterior Outlook
GPS shows you where you are and How long will it take to reach your destintion.

Neo City Volvo Double decker BUS

2009-01-05T03:15:00.001-08:00

World's Expensive and luxuries Bus,Neo City Bus has its own beauty of nature no one can beat this bus and compete to this beautiful bus by the way we all love its look cause it has its own beauty.

Getaway drivers and outside lane lovers beware

2008-12-15T14:09:00.001-08:00

Getaway drivers and outside lane lovers beware! The Met Police has a teamed up with Brit supercar manufacturer, Caparo, to conceive a brand new Rapid Response Vehicle (RRV) for the future – on show at MPH ’07 this weekend.Capable of accelerating from a Police lay-by to 100mph in just 5 seconds and onto a top speed of 200mph, the Caparo T1 RRV would be deployed to hunt down car criminals within the M25.

Like everything else in the Met Police’s armoury, this bespoke RRV is intended as a deterrent. Just check your mirrors next time you fancy breaking the speed limit!
Caparo T1

Honda-VFR800-VTec-2002

2008-12-15T08:31:00.000-08:00

Honda-VFR800-VTec-2002 front side and rear outlook

Honda-VFR800FI-2002

2008-12-15T08:22:00.000-08:00

Honda-VFR800FI-2002 Heavy bike rear outlook seems bike in its peak high resolutions

2009 NISSAN QUEST Canadian

2008-12-03T08:50:00.000-08:00

235-hp 3.5-litre DOHC 24-valve V6 engine
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Six standard air bags as part of Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS)

2009 NISSAN FRONTIER

2008-12-03T08:15:00.000-08:00

152 HP of 2.5-L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine with 281 lb-ft of torque
Available Dana® 44 rear axle

Up to 6,500 lbs of towing capacity

2009 NISSAN ALTIMA COUPE Starting at $ 25, 998 Altima Coupe 3.5 SE ($29,798 as shown)

2008-12-03T07:31:00.000-08:00

175-hp 2.5-litre 4-cylinder or 270-hp 3.5-litre V6 engin
All-new head-turning 18" aluminum-alloy wheels

2009 NISSAN MURANO Starting at $ 37, 648¹ Murano LE AWD ($47,498¹ as shown)

2008-12-02T08:29:00.000-08:00

265-hp 3.5-litre DOHC 24-valve V6 engine

Intuitive All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission)

2008 NISSAN 350Z Starting at $ 49, 948

2008-12-02T08:11:00.000-08:00

3.5-litre V6 engine with 306 HP and 268 lb-ft of torque

Aluminium-alloy suspension components
240-watt Bose® audio system with AM/FM/in-dash 6-CD changer

2009 NISSAN XTERRA Starting at $ 32, 598

2008-12-02T07:54:00.000-08:00

Xterra S
offers the core equipment: a powerful 261-hp engine, 6-speed manual transmission, 4-wheel Limited Slip (ABLS), 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with G-sensor, Traction Control System (TCS), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), a tubular roof rack with covered gear box, crossbars, and air dam, power door locks and windows, 16" 5-spoke aluminium-alloy wheels, 8-way manual adjustable driver's seat, cargo net, first-aid kit, tubular step rails, and Easy Clean™ cargo area with Utili-track™ Cargo Channel System

2009 NISSAN TITAN CREW CAB Starting at $ 37, 498

2008-12-02T07:11:00.000-08:00

2009 NISSAN
TITAN CREW CAB
Starting at $ 37, 498¹
Titan Crew Cab SE 4x4 ($41,198¹ as shown)

317 HP 5.6-litre V8 class-leading standard engine
385 lb-ft of torque
Longest crew cab bed in its class – 2.2 m (7'3")

Hennessey Tuned Dodge Viper SRT10

2008-11-30T10:26:00.000-08:00

Hennessey Tuned Dodge Viper SRT10

Hennessey Performance Engineering (HPE) today announced that it is introducing the company’s first high-performance performance upgrade system for the new 2008 Dodge Viper SRT10. Known as the Venom 650R, the engine modifications increase by 78 horsepower giving the Viper the ability to accelerate from 0 to 150 mph 1.5 seconds quicker (15.5 sec. versus 17.0 sec.) than the already factory-fast 2008 Viper that offers a stout 600 horsepower.

The Venom 650R package consists of custom fabricated long tube stainless-steel exhaust headers with 1 7/8-inch primary tubes flowing into 5-to-1 merge collectors. From there, the spent exhaust gases flow through aftermarket catalytic converters before traveling through a full 3-inch stainless-steel exhaust system fit with high-flow stainless-steel mufflers. Other performance upgrades include: K&N high-flow air filter element, 2-piece light-weight cross-drilled brake rotors (saving 8 lbs per corner), professional installation, dyno testing, Hennessey Venom Power floor mats and exclusive Hennessey Venom 650R exterior badges. Each Venom 650R has a serial numbered plaque located in the cockpit and under the hood. Rounding out the package, the Venom 650R will carry a full 3 year / 36,000 mile Hennessey warranty that will cover the modifications performed to the vehicle.

HPE plans to build 200 units for the 2008 model year. Many of these cars will be available through an exclusive Hennessey dealer network comprised of high-performance minded Dodge dealers.

The Hennessey Venom 650R upgrade package gives 2008 Viper owners the option to fend off any Corvette Blue Devil ZR-1s that they might encounter in the coming New Year.

2008 Hennessey Venom 650R Specifications Available for all 2008 Viper SRT10 models including Coupe, Convertible and ACR.

Power:
678 hp @ 6,200 rpm; 645 lb-ft torque @ 5,200 rpm

Performance:
0 - 60 mph: 3.3 sec. 0 - 150 mph: 15.5 sec. (stock 2008 Viper = 17.0 sec.) 1/4 mile: 11.3 @ 131 mph (factory Michelin PS2 tires) 1/4 mile: 10.7 @ 132 mph (BFG Drag Radial tires) Top Speed: 211 mph (estimated for the Viper coupe)

Venom 650R includes:
- 1 7/8-inch stainless-steel long tube exhaust headers
- Full 3-inch diameter stainless-steel exhaust system
- High-flow catalytic converters
- K&N Air filter
- Lightweight 2-piece cross-drilled brake rotor upgrade (front & rear)
- “Powered by Hennessey” valve cover badges
- Hennessey and Venom 650R exterior badges
- Hennessey windshield banner
- Hennessey Venom Power floor mats
- Serial numbered dash plaque and engine compartment plaque
- Limited Production (only 200 650R Vipers will be offered for sale for the 2008 Viper model year)
- Limited Warranty (3 years / 36,000 miles)
- Lifetime headers and exhaust warranty for original owner (available from Hennessey / Dodge dealers or when installed at the HPE facility located at Lonestar Motorsports Park in Sealy, Texas)
- Professional installation at HPE includes all necessary gaskets and fluids plus before and after chassis dyno testing plus up to 100 miles of road testing (mail order kit also available).

2008 Neiman Marcus Special Edition Hennessey Venom 700NM

2008-11-30T10:19:00.000-08:00

2008 Neiman Marcus Special Edition Hennessey Venom 700NM

Hennessey Venom 700NM

Neiman Marcus Direct announced today that it is partnering with Hennessey Performance Engineering to introduce the 2008 Neiman Marcus Special Edition Hennessey Venom 700NM. The 2008 Special Edition Hennessey Venom will be featured in the spring Neiman Marcus Men’s Catalog and will retail for $179.500.

The 2008 Special Edition Hennessey Venom 700NM features jet black paint with a 200-mph tested rear wing and Venom 700NM badges. Inside, custom details include black and red leather appointments, a numbered limited-edition dash plaque, embroidered floor mats and matching luggage. Underhood, there’s a custom engine featuring 700 horsepower with 645 lb-ft torque, that can attain 0-60 mph in 3.3 seconds.

“The Venom 700NM offers world-class power, performance and looks in typical Hennessey style. We are very excited about our new partnership with Neiman Marcus.” said John Hennessey, President, Hennessey Performance Engineering. Only seven Venom 700NM Vipers will be made and the price includes one day of high-performance driving school at Lonestar Motorsports Park. For your chance to own this car, call 1 -8... promptly at 9:00 a.m. PST on Monday, April 10, 2008.

About Hennessey Performance Engineering Hennessey Performance Engineering (HPE) specializes in designing, testing, manufacturing and selling high-performance parts and services for the Dodge Viper SRT10, Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8, Chrysler 300C SRT8 and Dodge Magnum SRT8 as well as other high performance and exotic brands such as Bentley, AMG Mercedes and Porsche. HPE is completing the construction of the company’s new 30,000 square foot engineering and manufacturing facility at the company’s Lonestar Motorsports Park - a 1/4 mile dragstrip located 45 minutes west of Houston, Texas. HPE is the only aftermarket tuning firm in North America that owns and operates its own vehicle testing track / proving grounds. The company will move to its new facility at the end of 2007.

About Neiman Marcus The Neiman Marcus Group, Inc. operations include the Specialty Retail Stores segment and the Direct Marketing segment. The Specialty Retail Stores segment consists primarily of Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman stores. The Direct Marketing segment conducts both print catalog and online operations under the Neiman Marcus, and Bergdorf Goodman brand names.

GM Europe to Invest Euro €9 Billion in Opel

2008-11-30T10:07:00.001-08:00

General Motors Europe will invest a total of €9 billion into Opel through 2012, thus strengthening its core brand. €6.5 billion alone will be spent on the development of new vehicles and propulsion systems. In addition, the company is investing considerably into its German plants, Rüsselsheim, Bochum, Kaiserslautern and Eisenach. This was announced by GM Europe President Carl-Peter Forster at a press conference in Rüsselsheim today. Forster also referred to the contracts for the future agreed on yesterday evening with the European employee representatives. These contracts guarantee the European Astra plants production capacity and capacity utilization.

GM Europe will invest €900 million into its new Rüsselsheim plant, which was put into operation in 2002. As of autumn 2008, Rüsselsheim will build a new generation of upper midsize vehicles, starting with the Opel Insignia. Bochum is granted investments worth €650 million to secure the facility’s long-term competitiveness and getting it ready for production of the next-generation Astra. “Opel Bochum has already made a big step forward and is an excellent example of how a long-established plant can regain its competitiveness by means of systematic restructuring and the great commitment of its workforce,” Forster said. Eisenach is granted investments of €240 million. Furthermore, the Kaiserslautern facility will not be sold as previously planned but will be expanded into a center of competence for component manufacturing with an investment of €50 million.

20 new models through 2012, extended-range electric vehicle
Hans H. Demant, Managing Director of Adam Opel GmbH, announced a comprehensive product offensive with 17 new passenger cars and 3 light commercial vehicles through 2012. In addition to the Insignia this autumn and the new Astra, it has also been decided that the next-generation Meriva with its rear-hinged doors (FlexDoor system) will go into production.

As with Insignia, the FlexRide mechatronic chassis system of which helps the car adjust to prevailing driving conditions, Opel is focusing on technical innovation in all vehicle segments, for example with Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL), new chassis functions for great safety in critical situations and with vehicle concepts that offer a high level of flexibility for different uses. For instance, Opel was the first manufacturer to offer the automatically adjusting lighting system also in smaller vehicle segments, such as Corsa and Meriva. “Opel is making the most state-of-the-art safety technology available to the majority of the market. This is an effective contribution to road safety,” Demant said.

In close cooperation with the GM Development Center in Warren, Michigan, U.S.A., the Rüsselsheim engineering teams are working on getting extended-range electric vehicles based on the E-Flex system ready for series production. This system allows a driver to travel 65 kilometers on electric power alone, enough to cover the average distance covered by daily commuters. For longer distances, a combustion engine, that serves merely as a power generator, recharges the electric power unit to achieve the range of usual midsize passenger cars.

Growth strategy for German market
Thomas Owsianski, Executive Director, Sales, Marketing & Aftersales, presented the growth strategy for the German market with which Opel wants to increase its sales volume and market share: In the medium term, Opel in Germany is striving to regain new-car registrations of 400,000 units and a market share of over 10 percent, Owsianski said. Opel new-car buyers in Germany will be granted a six-year warranty at no additional costs.

Under a program called “INNOVATION”, Opel currently offers vehicles in which innovative features such as adaptive forward lighting and dynamic navigation are combined in favorably priced packages. According to Owsianski, innovation will also be at the center of the communication campaign for the launch of the new Opel Insignia, “a car with sophisticated technology and groundbreaking design” that will compete in the upper midsize segment starting this autumn.

Substantial investments into dealer network
In Frankfurt, Cologne, Berlin and Wiesbaden, Opel will work together with partner companies to expand dealerships into prestigious brand centers. Opel will spend over €100 million on over 2,000 projects together with the Opel dealers in order to speed up the modernization of the dealerships and achieve a consistent state-of-the-art appearance. In addition to the modernization of showrooms and dealerships, Opel continues to modernize the infrastructure of its dealers and service organizations.

GM Announces New Products, Capacity Adjustments; Continues Transformation of North American Business

2008-11-30T10:04:00.000-08:00

GM Announces New Products, Capacity Adjustments; Continues Transformation of North American Business-New car, powertrain programs to meet the changing needs of U.S. customers
-Chevy Volt production gets the green light from the GM board
-GM builds on car momentum with additional capacity; adjusts truck capacity
-Hummer brand set for strategic review

GM today announced a range of strategic initiatives to aggressively respond to growing demand for fuel-efficient vehicles and to economic and market challenges in North America. Rick Wagoner, GM chairman and CEO, made the announcements here as part of the GM annual meeting of stockholders.

Major initiatives announced by Wagoner include:

-A new global compact car program for Chevrolet, a next generation for the popular Chevy Aveo, and a high efficiency engine module for the U.S. market.
-Funding for production of the Chevy Volt extended-range electric vehicle.
-Addition of third shifts to Lordstown and Orion, which build hot-selling Chevy and Pontiac cars.
-Cessation of production at four plants that build pickups, SUVs and medium-duty trucks.
-A strategic review of the Hummer brand.

“From the start of our North American turnaround plan in 2005, I’ve said that our goal is not just to return GM to profitability, but to structure GM globally for sustained profitability and growth,” said Wagoner.

“Since the first of this year, however, U.S. economic and market conditions have become significantly more difficult,” he said. “Higher gasoline prices are changing consumer behavior, and they are significantly affecting the U.S. auto industry sales mix.”

In North America, GM has been moving rapidly and successfully to revitalize its car lineup and grow its crossover business. New GM cars and crossovers, including the Cadillac CTS, Chevy Malibu, Pontiac Vibe and Buick Enclave, have been selling strongly, and GM intends to build on this success. In fact, 18 of the next 19 new GM products for the U.S. will be cars or crossovers.

Additional operational and strategic actions will be required to position GM for sustainable profitability and growth. These initiatives fall into three broad areas: product and technology, manufacturing facilities and capacity, and the Hummer brand.

New Chevrolet models and a high-efficiency engine module approved
To further strengthen GM’s lineup of fuel-efficient cars, the GM board has approved a next-generation compact Chevy for the U.S. and global markets, a next generation of the popular Chevy Aveo, and a U.S. production module of GM’s 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

The new Chevy compact will be better equipped than today’s compact cars, and will be designed to set quality and safety benchmarks for the compact class. Production will begin in mid-2010 at GM’s Lordstown, Ohio, plant, subject to final negotiations with state and local authorities.

“This car will represent the first U.S. application of our global architecture strategy,” said Wagoner. “This strategy will pay major dividends as we leverage our extensive car product development capability in Europe, Korea, and other locations to accelerate the shift in our U.S. product portfolio.”

The next-generation compact will be pure Chevrolet in design, and will feature the 1.4-liter turbocharged version of GM’s global four-cylinder engine. With this engine and a manual transmission, the new Chevy is expected to achieve a 9 mpg improvement over Chevy’s current entry in this segment. The engine will be produced in Flint, Michigan, again subject to final negotiations with state and local authorities.

Also recently approved was a next generation of the popular Chevy Aveo. Based on a global architecture, the Aveo is also expected to have segment-leading fuel economy when it goes on sale in the U.S. market in the second half of 2010.

These new Chevy models will help build on GM’s leadership in fuel efficient vehicles. For example, GM continues to offer more vehicles with a 30-mpg or better highway fuel economy rating than any competitor.

Chevy Volt is a go
The Chevy Volt took a major step toward the showroom with formal approval by the GM board of funding for production of the extended-range electric vehicle. This approval, which includes funding for production development and tooling, indicates that GM leadership believes that the technology for the Volt, including its lithium-ion batteries, will be ready for volume production on schedule.

“The Chevy Volt is a go,” said Wagoner. “We believe this is the biggest step yet in our industry’s move away from our historic, virtually complete reliance on petroleum to power vehicles.”

“We intend to show a production version of the Chevy Volt publicly in the very near future, and we remain focused on our target of getting the Volt into Chevrolet showrooms by the end of 2010,” Wagoner said.

Preliminary plans are to produce the Volt at GM’s Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Center, subject to successful discussions with state and local governments.

Capacity adjustments address market shifts
GM will react to the shift in the U.S. market by increasing production of small and midsize cars and reducing production of pickups and truck-based SUVs.

GM will add a third shift in September to the Orion Assembly Center in Michigan, which builds the hot-selling Chevy Malibu and Pontiac G6. Also in September, the company plans to add a third shift at Lordstown Car Assembly in Ohio, which builds the Chevy Cobalt and Pontiac G5.

On the other side of the mix equation, market-related declines in truck sales mean that, over time, GM will cease production at four truck plants.

Oshawa Truck Assembly in Canada, which builds the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra, will likely cease production in 2009, while Moraine, Ohio, which builds the Chevy TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy and Saab 9-7x, will end production at the end of the 2010 model run, or sooner, if demand dictates. Janesville, Wisconsin, will cease production of medium-duty trucks by the end of 2009, and of the Tahoe, Suburban and Yukon in 2010, or sooner, if market demand dictates. Chevrolet Kodiak medium-duty truck production will also end in Toluca, Mexico, by the end of this year.

GM expects that these actions, along with the recent announcement to remove shifts at two other U.S. truck plants (Pontiac and Flint, Michigan), will result in an additional GM North America structural cost savings of more than $1 billion, on a running rate basis, by 2010. This is on top of the approximately $5 billion running rate reduction by 2011 that we announced earlier this year, and also in addition to the $9 billion reduction accomplished over the 2006-07 period in North America.

GM will work closely with its union partners to mitigate the impact of these difficult actions, which are made necessary by long-term changes in consumer demand for trucks and SUVs.

Strategic assessment for Hummer brand
Finally, GM is undertaking a strategic review of the Hummer brand to determine its fit within the GM portfolio. At this point, the company is considering all options, from a complete revamp of the product lineup to a partial or complete sale of the brand.

Moving forward
“We are making a number of important announcements today, covering everything from product and technology investments to capacity adjustments to a strategic review of our Hummer brand,” said Wagoner. “These moves are all in response to the rapid rise in oil prices and the resulting changes in the U.S., changes that we believe are more structural than cyclical.

“While some of the actions, especially the capacity reductions, are very difficult, they are necessary to adjust to changing market and economic conditi

First GM Hybrids in Dubai

2008-11-30T09:57:00.000-08:00

General Motors today delivered its first hybrid vehicles in the Middle East to the Government of Dubai and the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). The vehicles, which include the Chevrolet Tahoe hybrid and the Chevrolet Malibu hybrid, are part of a ground-breaking project that involves a 12-month trial using the vehicles as public taxis that could eventually lead to one of the largest hybrid fleets in the world.

The trial is the first of its kind in the region and firmly places Dubai among the world’s leading cities in pioneering the use of environmentally-friendly public transportation.

The agreement between the Government of Dubai and GM is a first step in the RTA’s comprehensive plan to make all taxis in Dubai environmentally-friendly, and is in line with their vision to reduce vehicle pollution and ensure a clean environment for future generations.

Terry Johnsson, President of General Motors - Middle East Operations, said “When the Dubai Government decided to investigate the feasibility of alternative propulsion systems in the Middle East, GM moved very quickly to support them. Naturally, we are very pleased to be part of such an historic and important project.”

GM was the first automotive company to approach the Dubai government on this project. The rapid introduction of the Chevrolet hybrids was the result of close cooperation established between GM and the RTA, and included training over 100 personnel, including first responders, in on the operation, safety protocols and maintenance of hybrid vehicles.

The Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid offers full-size SUV functionality with lower emissions and 50 per cent better fuel economy in city driving than its gasoline-only sibling. With 21mpg in city driving, the fuel efficiency of the world’s first hybrid full-size SUV is similar to that of much smaller sedans. The Malibu Hybrid - Chevrolet’s first production hybrid car - also delivers lower exhaust emissions as well as the highest fuel economy of any Malibu model.

2008 FPV GT ,F6 sedan & Super Pursuit Ute Officially Unveiled

2008-11-29T14:20:00.000-08:00

2008 FPV GT ,F6 sedan & Super Pursuit Ute Officially Unveiled

2008 FPV GT

Ford Performance Vehicles (FPV) has officially unveiled a selection of its highly anticipated new Falcon-based range, lifting the covers off the latest evolutions of its performance GT sedan, F6 sedan and Super Pursuit Ute.

“Today we have given the public a glimpse of the new era in Australian performance motoring,” said Ford Performance Vehicles General Manager Rod Barrett.

“Our new model range offers performance enthusiasts the ultimate in performance engineering, luxury appointments and sports styling.”

For the first time, the Ford badge will not appear on an FPV model. The new-look FPV vehicles
will feature FPV badges prominently on the center grille and center boot lid.

“Featuring the FPV badge on all our new models is a major repositioning for the FPV brand,” said Barrett.

“It signifies the maturing of our brand and the evolution of FPV as Ford’s performance partner.”

As with Ford, FPV has repositioned its high performance sedan and Ute model variants, with eight stunning vehicles divided into the GT series and F6 series families.

“The repositioning of the vehicle line-up has been done for similar reasons to the Ford G Series,” said Barrett.

“It is all about growing the brand and attracting new customers. The GT series family continues our strong iconic heritage, while the F6 series family caters to a new segment of performance car enthusiasts who prefer a slick turbo charged six-cylinder to a thundering V8.”

The GT series family retains the familiar GT and GT-P sedan nameplates, and introduces the stylish new luxury GT-E sedan.

The bold exterior styling of the new GT and GT-P is highlighted by the trademark unique front grille treatment, rear wing, side striping and V8 bonnet bulge accented with a newly designed hood decal.

Visually, the new GT-E is distinguished from its V8 siblings by its refined rear lip spoiler, chrome accenting and distinctive GT-E badging.

The GT-E’s unique 19 inch alloy wheels are matched by a premium brake package, with 6 piston Brembo brakes now featured as standard.
“The GT-E is a sophisticated luxury performance car that will cater for those buyers that don’t want the stripes, wings, and seats offered in the GT-P; however want to retain all the performance attributes of that car,” said Barrett.

The Super Pursuit and Pursuit Ute variants complete the GT series range.

The F6 series family features the F6 and F6 Ute- the Typhoon and Tornado nomenclature are discontinued on the new vehicles.

Significant ride, handling and safety advancements have been made to the new FPV stable. Each new model variant has been fully engineered and designed to provide the performance enthusiast with the ultimate in Australian performance motoring.

Safety advances include the addition of Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) on FPV sedan & Ute vehicles for the first time.

Significantly, FPV customers will also have a choice of manual or auto transmission at no additional cost.

“The option of auto or manual transmission at no extra cost caters for both our luxury and overt sports customers, without penalising either for their choice of transmission,” said Barrett.

FPV has produced exhilarating performance upgrades across the GT and F6 range, however the exact engine performance power and torque figures will be revealed closer to the on sale date in June.

“The unique FPV enhanced design gives each vehicle and a bolder road presence,” said Barrett.

“Coupled with performance upgrades, the new FPV range is a revolution in Australian performance motoring. I’m sure our loyal and passionate customers will be extremely impressed.

2008 FortuneSport Rt.S In Detail

2008-11-29T14:18:00.000-08:00

2008 FortuneSport Rt.S In Detail

Gwinnett County, Georgia. The first vehicle to be launched under the FortuneSport banner will be the Rt.S, a sub-2,000 pound, 350 horsepower sports coupe.

Inspired by Group C prototypes, the chassis of this road and track car will feature an aluminum semi-monocoque with a mid-mounted V8 and a pushrod suspension. Key weight-saving features are full composite bodywork, seats integrated into the chassis, and rolling gear supplied by BBS. The power to weight ratio of 5.1 lbs per bhp translates into a road car capable of a 0-100 km/h sprint in 4 seconds and a top speed of 175mph. The target price is $85,000.

Teritius Fortune said, “FortuneSport believes that the pleasure of driving is not in the electronics and sixteen speaker stereo systems, but in the driving itself. Especially given the green movement, the best way to engage the driver was to reduce vehicle mass.”

Penned by Turkish newcomer Emre Husmen, the Rt.S is a vision of sports cars in the year 2035. Characterized by short overhangs and a long wheelbase, the overall length of the car is 164 inches. Clever packaging means the height of the vehicle is 42 inches, while retaining enough head room to comfortably fit a 6-foot 4-inch passenger.

The Rt.S is scheduled for a launch in Late 2010 as a 2011 model. Development of a track version, the Rt.R will be launched late this fall. Visually similar to the Rt.S, the Rt.R will feature a 510bhp engine and a curb weight of 1,650 pounds. To be assembled by the Panoz Group, the Rt.R will be capable of running in a number of amateur track events, as well as FortuneSport-branded events held in conjunction with the Skip Barber Racing Schools. The Rt.R requires a security deposit of $200,000.

About FortuneSport

FortuneSport Vehicle Engineering Systems, LLC was founded in 1995 as a sole-proprietorship, tasked with the research and development of high performance vehicles. FortuneSport designs, engineers, tests, and develops its own vehicles. Teritius Fortune, the founder, is a lifelong automotive enthusiast.

2008 HEVT Ford F-150 Plugin Hybrid

2008-11-29T14:13:00.000-08:00

2008 HEVT Ford F-150 Plugin Hybrid
Hybrid Electric Vehicle Technologies, Inc. (HEVT) unveiled the world’s first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) version of the popular Ford F-150 pickup truck at Plug-In 2008 Conference and Exposition, the first international plug-in conference and expo. Converted with a proprietary adaptive controller and using a scaled-down version of the proprietary drive train HEVT has designed for transit buses, the F-150 has been transformed from a standard combustion engine vehicle getting about 16 MPG to a PHEV getting up to 41 MPG for a typical day’s driving.

The HEVT prototype was displayed during today’s keynote address by Dr. Andrew S. Grove, former chairman of Intel Corporation. “Trucks, SUVs and vans are the least-efficient vehicles on the road, so retrofitting them should be a high priority if we want to make a meaningful, near-term difference in oil consumption. Rapid commercialization of prototypes like HEVT’s is the way to go,” Dr. Grove said.

The prototype shows how HEVT’s plug-in hybrid drive train technology can retrofit existing PSVs (pickups, SUVs, and vans), to displace gasoline with electricity, cutting operating costs and harmful emissions and boosting performance. This is an important step toward energy security, because it reduces the fuel required to operate trucks and other large vehicles.

“One way to reduce fossil fuel use is to find ways to plug in some of the hundreds of millions of internal combustion engines already on the world’s roads,” said CalCars founder Felix Kramer. “The pioneering PHEV designs for trucks and buses from Dr. Ali Emadi and his team at HEVT are especially promising.”

Engineers at HEVT have developed a sophisticated electronics and software system called the Adaptive Control Unit (ACU) which serves to control the hybrid drive train. While driving, the ACU controls use of the electric motor and gasoline engine to optimize fuel economy and performance. An in-dash display unit monitors performance, indicating the charge remaining in the battery pack and the energy recovered through regenerative -braking.

“HEVT’s solutions apply to not just smaller passenger cars and hybrids, but almost any vehicle including larger gas guzzlers,” said HEVT founder Ali Emadi. “Our laboratory simulations show that the larger the vehicle, the greater the benefits – in gas costs, particulate and greenhouse emissions, and sound pollution. For this reason we are currently focused on PSVs and will later expand to school buses as well as transit buses.”

HEVT will begin with a small pilot program of Ford F-150 pickup truck conversions available to organizations and individuals on a custom basis. The pilot program will help HEVT’s continued development and optimization, pushing conversion costs down and lowering lifetime cost of ownership for converted vehicles.

KITT Recreated Latest Knight Rider Shelby GT500KR

2008-11-29T14:11:00.000-08:00

KITT Recreated Latest Knight Rider Shelby GT500KR
Comic Con got underway Thursday in San Diego. The sci-fi convention is a change for many to dress up in costume and get into character. But, it’s also turning into a major marketing machine for producers, movie screenings and TV programs.

The producers of several NBC shows, both returning favorites and new hopefuls, had a chance to show off their shows. Behind the scenes of NBC’s new series “Kings.” The producers call it a contemporary re-imagining of the tale of David and Goliath.

“Heroes” actor Greg Grunberg says “it’s got the scope of a feature and it’s gonna be that way every single week. people are gonna freak out. I’m certainly gonna watch the show.”

You might recognize Greg Grunberg from “Heroes.” He moderated the “Kings” panel. Producers showed panel attendees a preview of the new show. Initial feedback, positive, albeit a bit nerve racking for one of the actresses in the new series.

“Kings” actress Allison Miller says “I’ll believe it when I see it. Really that’s what I feel. When I watched it today up on the big screen I did get a wave of goose bumps and that’s usually a marker for me that something is special about it.”

Comic Con fans were also treated to a behind the scenes look at the new Knight Rider series. The biggest star will be someone you’ll never see. Val Kilmer will be the new voice of the souped up Mustang: Kitt. And boy does that car get a lot of attention.

“Knight Rider” actress Deanna Russo says “the coolest thing ever, yeah! It might blow your mind so bring a helmet.”

Comic Con runs through the July 27th at the San Diego Convention Center.

2009 Ford KA Revealed

2008-11-29T14:09:00.000-08:00

2009 Ford KA Revealed
2009 Ford KA - The exciting new Ka, Ford’s fresh, fun and funky small car, will take centre-stage at the 2008 Paris Motor Show in October. The all-new Ford Ka brings new levels of style and enjoyment to affordable city cars. Twelve years after the original Ka was launched to great acclaim, its successor captures the same youthful and cheeky spirit. The new model retains all of the qualities which made the Ka so popular – its compact size, great looks, lively dynamics and fun personality – but presents them in a fresh new package.

Fisker Karma Replies to Tesla Allegations

2008-11-29T13:48:00.000-08:00

Today, Fisker Automotive, Inc. announced that the company is on track for delivery of the Fisker Karma in Q4 2009, and that it will vigorously defend the recent allegations put forth by Tesla. Tesla Motors breached the arbitration agreement in its contract with Fisker by filing these meritless claims in San Mateo County court.

“The lawsuit is nonsense,” said Henrik Fisker, CEO, Fisker Automotive. “Fisker Coachbuild has non-exclusive design contracts as shown by the cars we have designed for a variety of manufacturers.”

Fisker Automotive launched the highly anticipated Fisker Karma, a plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) premium vehicle at the 2008 North American International Auto Show. The revolutionary technology incorporated into the powertrain was developed by Quantum Technologies, a public company, which first proved its capability with the launch of a U.S. military vehicle created for U.S. Army Special Operations in 2003.

“In January of 2007 I first met Henrik Fisker. Soon thereafter, I became convinced that a strategic alliance joining together Quantum’s (PHEV) unique technology position with Fisker’s design expertise could be leveraged into a company capable of launching the first premium sports sedan for the (PHEV) segment,” expressed Alan Niedzwiecki, CEO, Quantum Technologies. “In August 2007 that vision became a reality with the inception of Fisker Automotive Inc., effectively combining Quantum’s (PHEV) drivetrain expertise with a remarkable design from Fisker Coachbuild LLC.”

“We are confident that Fisker Automotive continues to be a tremendous investment opportunity,” said Ray Lane, Kleiner Perkins. “The design innovation of Henrik Fisker combined with the hybrid drive train experience of Quantum is unique in the automotive market.”

The Fisker name for more than a decade has attracted and attained worldwide recognition. Henrik Fisker has more than 19 years of experience in the automotive and product design arena. Some of his pioneering includes work on the BMW E-1 electric car in 1991, the BMW Z8 and the Aston Martin V8 Vantage. Most recently Fisker Coachbuild created the Fisker Tramonto and Fisker Latigo CS in 2005.

“Fisker Coachbuild is proud of its premier reputation for design work and we look forward to continuing to build on that reputation,” said Henrik Fisker.

MCB Poem

2008-11-29T13:21:00.000-08:00

my Lovely MCB Virtual Banking in 21st Century
ok ok
its your MCB
ok ok
it has virtual banking
ok ok
the server is down all the time
ok ok
here is the customer service of bank in 2008
ok ok
I love that they said that they Care
ok ok
so I see some Server up in my Life
ok ok
all I see Server is Down
ok ok
I have to go in branch
ok ok
I have to be in the Long Line
ok ok
they said time is Off
ok ok
my Eid is Crippled
ok ok
Do they care?????
ok ok
MCB Virtual Banking
ok ok
do you Signin?????
ok ok,
always excuses in Call center...
ok ok
do they really care....
Not OK.................

Fioravanti Hidra Concept

2008-11-29T12:55:00.000-08:00

2008 Fioravanti Hidra Concept

2008 Fioravanti Hidra Concept

Fioravanti, in its twentieth year of activity, continues the research on the new architectures of the next future vehicles that will must face the new alternative sources of energy and their stockpiling.

At the next Geneve Motor Show it will be showed Hidra: a proposal of a sporty multifunctional vehicle ( M.P.C. as multi purpose coupe), with 5 doors and 4 seats. The concept is based on a general layout that lets reach notable results in terms of vehicle dynamics, passive safety and flexibility.

Hidra marries the Fioravanti’s propensity for the innovation, functionality and elegance.

With this concept car Fioravanti will also show in a world premiere a revolutionary patent concerning the transparent surfaces.

2008 Fiat 500 Ferrari Limited Edition

2008-11-28T12:43:00.002-08:00

2008 Fiat 500 Ferrari Limited Edition

Two hundred exclusive Fiat 500 for the Ferrari sales network

Fiat 500 and Ferrari: two universal motoring icons which represent “Made in Italy”, one cute and the other exclusive. This is why the Maranello House has chosen the Fiat model as its “courtesy car” for its customers, who appreciate Italian style and like unique products.

In actual fact, two hundred Fiat 500 have been manufactured exclusively for the Ferrari sales network and will be driving on all of Europe’s roads.

Based on the Sport version and distinguished by the traditional red color, the two hundred Fiat 500 specials are fitted with the lively 1.4 6v 100 bhp engine and offer specific tuning and exhaust in perfect harmony with the sporty spirit of the “prancing horse”: these two features are designed and made by Magneti Marelli, a leading components company in the Fiat Group which has supplied high-tech parts to Fiat and Ferrari for years. The same sporty theme can also be found in some aesthetic details such as the red calipers, sporty pedal set, special black steering wheel with red stitching and 16” alloy wheels with 195/45 tires.

Compared to the already richly equipped Sport version, the Fiat 500 customised for Ferrari also has automatic climate control, electric sunroof, prestigious Frau leather interior, hi-fi, fog lights, numbered plate on the dashboard and “Limited Edition” wording on the kick plate.

The Ferrari network will thus be able to offer its customers a special car where the choice of every detail is the result of meticulous care and craftsmanship.

With this original initiative, the Fiat 500 model is confirmed both as a real “platform” on which Fiat is creating exclusive limited editions and as a successful car capable of winning over the general public, as demonstrated by the 222 thousand orders so far received.

2008 Ferrari Officine Panerai Watch Collection

2008-11-28T12:43:00.001-08:00

2008 Ferrari Officine Panerai Watch Collection

Ferrari Engineered by Officine Panerai is delighted to announce its debut at the British International Motor Show. The collection of high-end watches from the luxury Italian watch brand Officine Panerai will be on display to the public for the first time at this year’s ‘Ultimate Collection’ at the ExCeL centre in Docklands.

Great passion, but also technology, design, style, class, tradition and sports qualities are all elements which unite Officine Panerai and Ferrari, two names which represent the highest level of “made in Italy” creativity throughout the world.

The range of watches is divided into two collections, Scuderia and Granturismo. The fusion between Panerai and Ferrari is illustrated by the parallels in the appearance of a chronograph with its buttons and the rear view of a Ferrari: the Prancing Horse which stands out at the centre, the buttons which resemble the tail lights of a Ferrari, the profile of the case, and the convex crystal like the rear window.

Engraved on the cases and bracelets of all the 19 models presented from 2006 until now, three of which are special editions and particularly precious and exclusive watches, is an inscription which expresses and illustrates the working practice of the watch engineers. It reads: Engineered by Officine Panerai. It has been a matter of meticulous, precise research, carried out by observing in a precise and painstaking manner all of the models created by Ferrari in its 60 years of history. This has been the font of inspiration in achieving the production of a range of watches in which the best materials as well as a manic attention to detail merge into perfection.

Four new models have been added to the collection in 2008:

Ferrari 10 Days GMT £8,900 (Scuderia Collection)
Ferrari 8 Days Chrono Monopulsante GMT Classic £10,400 (Granturismo collection)
Ferrari 1/8th Second £10,400 (Special Edition)
Ferrari Chronograph £28,300 (Special Edition)

The watches will be on display at the British International Motor Show from Tuesday 22nd July – Sunday 3rd August.

Micheal Schumacher Completes Development Testing on Ferrari California

2008-11-28T12:41:00.000-08:00

Micheal Schumacher Completes Development Testing on Ferrari California

Michael Schumacher is currently completing the track and road development stages of the Ferrari California, the new 8-cylinder model due to be officially unveiled at the Paris International Motor Show on October 2nd this year.

The seven times Formula 1 world champion has been involved in the development of the latest Prancing Horse road car since its inception and has worked with Ferrari’s team of engineers, technicians and test-drivers on honing the car in general, but more specifically on optimising its performance parameters.

“I have to say that, as with the 430 Scuderia, participating in the project since the very beginning has been really fascinating and great fun,” commented Schumacher at the end of a test session at the Fiorano circuit. “Although the cars are very different, they both offer absolutely unique driving pleasure because of the inherently sporty character of all of the cars that come out of Maranello. The 430 Scuderia is, of course, a more extreme model with a focus on absolutely cutting-edge performance. However, although the Ferrari California is very much a Grand Tourer in terms of its usability and high level of interior comfort, it is still surprisingly sporty and fun to drive under any kind of conditions.”

Schumacher also recently addressed the Ferrari dealer convention in Maranello and explained the differences between the two 8-cylinders: “They were designed to meet different requirements: the 430 Scuderia is aimed at drivers who want the very essence of a Ferrari and will get it out on the track as often as they can.

“The Ferrari California, on the other hand, is designed for everyday use and for weekends away whilst still guaranteeing all of the emotional impact that only an authentic Ferrari can deliver.”

Michael Schumacher’s contribution to the development of the Ferrari California has resulted in a car that delivers extraordinary performance: it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in under 4 seconds, delivering superb driving pleasure whilst still being exceptionally comfortable and versatile.

All New 2009 Dodge Ram With 390HP

2008-11-28T12:33:00.000-08:00

All New 2009 Dodge Ram With 390HP

This morning, Dodge will showcase its new 2009 Dodge Ram powertrain lineup at the company’s proving grounds. Powertrain choices in all-new 2009 Dodge Ram models will offer improved fuel economy plus more power, torque and refinement than ever before.

Engines available in all-new 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 models include the all-new, best-in-class, 390-horsepower 5.7-liter HEMI, flex-fuel 4.7-liter and 3.7-liter gasoline engines. The 2009 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty models (with current 2008 design) are available with either the 5.7-liter HEMI or the 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel engine, which already achieves 2010 NOx emission standards, making it the cleanest and best-performing heavy-duty pickup truck in the market.

“While the all-new HEMI engine maintains the key characteristics that makes HEMI a household name in powertrains, we added new technologies, including Variable Valve Timing, that substantially improve fuel economy and refinement and maximize performance,” said Bob Lee, Vice President – Powertrain Product Engineering Team, Chrysler LLC.

“Our all-new Dodge Ram also offers best-in-class aerodynamics to go hand-in-hand with Chrysler’s fuel-saving technologies,” said Mike Accavitti, Director – Dodge Brand and SRT Global Marketing and Communications, Chrysler LLC. “And, with Dodge Ram’s first-ever crew cab, first-in-segment coil-spring rear suspension, industry-first RamBox cargo management system and more than 35 new or improved features, we’re changing the game in the truck market.”

All-new 5.7-liter HEMI to Offer Best-in-class Horsepower and Torque

For 2009, Dodge offers a new generation of the famous 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 in its Ram trucks, with best-in-class horsepower and torque. The new HEMI powers the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram to best-in-class performance: the R/T regular-cab 4×2 model equipped with a short bed and 4:10 gears can accelerate from 0-60 mph in less than 6 seconds.

While the all-new engine maintains many of the basic features that make “HEMI” synonymous with “power,” several technologies were added or improved:

-Variable Valve Timing (VVT)
-Expanded operating range of the fuel-saving Multiple Displacement System (MDS)
-Increased compression ratio
-Active intake manifold with long runners for low-end torque and short runners for high-rpm power
-Improved cylinder head port flow efficiency
-Reduced-restriction exhaust and induction systems

The result is improved idle quality and overall refinement, more horsepower (13 percent), more torque (8 percent) and better fuel economy (4 percent).

“The all-new 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine will offer our customers better fuel economy, improved idle quality and overall refinement, along with more horsepower and torque,” said Lee. “HEMI has always been synonymous with power, and now – thanks to VVT, expanded four-cylinder mode in our MDS system, and a host of other technologies – Chrysler’s new HEMI delivers more fuel efficiency and refinement, along with even more power.”

The new 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 delivers best-in-class 390 hp (291 kW), a 13-percent improvement, and 407 lb.-ft. (552 N•m) of torque, an 8-percent improvement, while providing an estimated improvement of 4 percent in fuel economy.

The HEMI’s new VVT improves fuel economy under some conditions in two ways. First, it reduces the engine’s pumping work by closing the intake valve later. Second, it increases the expansion process of the combustion event. This allows more work to be transferred to the crankshaft instead of being rejected out of the exhaust port as heat. Essentially, VVT optimizes engine breathing, which improves engine efficiency and power.

Dodge’s fuel-saving MDS system seamlessly alternates between smooth, high-fuel-economy four-cylinder mode when less power is needed, and V-8 mode when more power from the new 5.7-liter HEMI engine is in demand. An expanded MDS operating range in the new-for-2009 HEMI — aided in part by the Ram’s best-in-class aerodynamics — will allow customers to realize an even-greater fuel economy benefit. When MDS is operating, it is indicated by the fuel-economy-mode readout in the 2009 Dodge Ram’s Electronic Vehicle Information Center.

Chrysler estimates that since its inception of MDS in 2005, nearly 100 million gallons of gasoline have been saved, along with reduced carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of close to a million metric tons.

4.7-liter V-8

An available 4.7-liter V-8 delivers 310 horsepower (231 kW) and 330 lb.-ft. (447 N•m) of torque.

The 4.7-liter V-8 shares some of the HEMI engine’s combustion technology with its twin spark plugs per cylinder. It also makes use of increased compression ratio, improved cylinder head port flow and a new slant/squish combustion system designed to optimize fuel economy, power and torque.

This engine is also compatible with E85 fuel, earning the Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV) designation that provides customers the option of operating their vehicle on mixtures of gasoline and ethanol.

3.7-liter V-6

Unlike some others in the marketplace, Dodge will continue to offer customers a V-6 engine.

Standard on all-new 2009 Dodge Ram two-wheel-drive regular cab and Quad Cab models is a 3.7-liter Magnum V-6 engine, generating 215 horsepower (160 kW) and 235 lb.-ft. (319 N•m) of torque.

Similar to the 4.7-liter and 5.7-liter V-8 engines, the 3.7-liter V-6 is equipped with Electronic Throttle Control, which provides engine torque control while compensating for changes in engine load caused by the air conditioning compressor, alternator and power steering pump.

The 3.7-liter V-6 also offers fuel economy and performance benefits from technologies including exhaust gas recirculation, compacted graphite-iron bedplate and internal balance shaft.

6.7-liter Cummins Turbodiesel: Cleanest on the Market

The Dodge Ram Heavy Duty’s 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel engine already meets 2010 truck emissions standards in all 50 states, making the 2009 Dodge Ram Heavy Duty the cleanest diesel truck available on the market today.

The inline six-cylinder turbodiesel engine uses a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to virtually eliminate particulate matter emissions and an adsorber catalyst to reduce oxides of nitrogen (NOx) by as much as 90 percent.

In addition to the NOx adsorber and the DPF, the 6.7-liter turbodiesel engine includes other technologies to improve fuel efficiency and reduce unburned hydrocarbons:

A cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system combines with a uniquely designed piston combustion bowl and a high-flow, electronically controlled Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT™), matching boost pressure with the engine’s performance needs to reduce emissions and improve drivability
Within the exhaust system, a self-cleaning DPF and an oxidation catalyst reduces particulate matter by a factor of 10. The emissions system is designed for a government-certified 120,000 miles
A closed crankcase ventilation system eliminates crankcase fumes and oil carry-over, a common process with past diesels

As durable as it is powerful, the 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel has life-to-major overhaul intervals of 350,000 miles, providing more than a 100,000-mile advantage over the competition.

All-new Light-duty Cummins Turbodiesel

Dodge will introduce an all-new Cummins turbodiesel engine in its light-duty pickup trucks after 2009.

The new engine will provide a dramatic increase in low-end torque, up to a 25-percent improvement in fuel efficiency and a 20-percent reduction in carbon dioxide (C02) emissions when compared to an equivalent gasoline engine.

With new, clean, quiet diesel technology, the new diesel engine will meet 50-state emissions standards for 2010.

All-new Dodge Ram 1500 Hybrid

The Dodge Ram 1500 Hybrid, available after 2009, will be the latest addition to Chrysler LLC’s fuel-efficient lineup, joining clean diesel, HEMI and flex-fuel vehicles.

Combining Chrysler’s Multi-displacement System (MDS) and two-mode hybrid technology to greatly improve fuel economy, the 5.7-liter HEMI Hybrid V-8 offers performance and efficiency with up to 40 percent fuel economy improvement in the city and 25 percent overall. The two-mode hybrid system is currently being introduced in the company’s 2009 Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid and 2009 Chrysler Aspen HEMI Hybrid.

The two-mode hybrid system uses electric motors to allow the HEMI V-8 to remain in four-cylinder mode more often, improving fuel economy.

In the first mode – at low speeds and with light loads – the vehicle may operate on electric power only, on engine power only, or any combination of the two. The Dodge Ram 1500 Hybrid may operate in electric-only mode during slow starts (city driving) up to 25 mph, further conserving fuel and reducing emissions. In addition, the HEMI V-8 can shut down when the vehicle comes to a stop or during deceleration, to conserve fuel and then seamlessly restart when power is necessary.

The second mode, used primarily at highway speeds, augments electric assist with full power from the 5.7-liter HEMI when conditions demand it.

The Dodge Ram 1500 Hybrid also features regenerative braking, which recycles electric energy that would normally be lost during braking or deceleration. This energy is reused to power the vehicle.

The Dodge Ram 1500 Hybrid will also benefit from Dodge Ram’s best-in-class aerodynamics, which allows a greater operating range of MDS.

2008 Mopar Dodge Challenger Drag Race Announced

2008-11-28T12:32:00.000-08:00

2008 Mopar Dodge Challenger Drag Race Announced

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the factory-built drag race package cars from Dodge and Plymouth. To commemorate those HEMI-powered drag cars, Mopar announced it will unveil its new Dodge Challenger Drag Race Package Car at the 29th Annual Mopar Mile-High Nationals at Bandimere Speedway in Morrison, Colo. on Sunday, July 13.

Featuring separate paint schemes, the first two Challenger Drag Race Package Cars built by Mopar will be revealed at approximately 2 p.m. MDT, following Sunday’s Mile-High race eliminations and before the final rounds. Mopar, Chrysler LLC’s original equipment parts manufacturer and distributor, announced its Challenger Drag Race Package Car at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Oct. 2007.

The first drag-race-only, factory-prepped package car built in 40 years, the new Challenger Drag Race Package Car by Mopar builds on the heritage of the 1968 HEMI-powered Dodge Darts and Plymouth Barracudas. The limited-edition ’68 package cars represented a significant point in Mopar’s history—solidifying the brand as a quarter-mile force. A watershed moment in drag racing history, they were also a major milestone in the evolution of the second-generation HEMI powerplant (426 HEMI engine). Some of drag racing’s biggest names drove the crowd-favorite ’68 package cars —like Ronnie Sox, “Dandy” Dick Landy and Jack Werst, just to name a few. Mopar’s popular HEMI Challenge racing series, operated in conjunction with the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), features these ‘68 package cars in quarter-mile competition all over the country today.

Based on the Challenger SRT8, Mopar’s modern, factory-prepped Challenger Drag Race Package Car will begin with a special Body-in-White (BIW) from Chrysler’s Brampton, Ontario, Canada assembly plant. It has been updated for modern racing conditions. Special weight-reduction modifications were made by eliminating unnecessary components and systems. To accentuate the weight savings, it will also feature added composite, polycarbonate and lightweight components designed for drag racing. The engine was repositioned and the wheelbase was shortened to improve the driveline angle/clearance and weight distribution.

“Mopar worked with the NHRA—the world’s largest and loudest auto racing organization—to approve our race-prepped Challenger for drag race competition,” said Sunil Lahoti, Senior Manager - Mopar Marketing and Brand Strategy, Chrysler LLC. “Engineered to race, our Package Car has what an NHRA drag racer needs to thunder down the strip in competition. It’s made for straight-line, drag-strip acceleration—and is prepped to score victories off the Tree.”

Drag racers will have a choice of three engines to power the Challenger Drag Race Package Car for race competition. Mopar will build a minimum of 100 Package Cars to meet NHRA requirements. Each will carry an identification plate with sequential serial number.

Mopar built the first two Challenger Drag Race Package Cars for development and testing. Each Package Car ran successfully in June as proof-of-concept and for NHRA certification.

At the Mile-High reveal, Mopar will announce details including vehicle modifications, engine options, NHRA/IHRA categories and class eligibility, pricing, availability and distribution. A build book/owner’s manual will be available as well as a collector’s “coffee table” book.

Mopar Reveals Dodge Challenger Drag Race Package Cars

2008-11-28T12:30:00.000-08:00

Mopar Reveals Dodge Challenger Drag Race Package Cars

Mopar® is bringing the iconic Dodge Challenger muscle car to National Hot Road Association (NHRA) drag-racing competition. Mopar revealed two Dodge Challenger Drag Race Package Cars at the 29th Annual Mopar Mile-High Nationals today before thrilled fans at Bandimere Speedway in Morrison, Colo. Mopar Mile-High Nationals is the longest-running NHRA sponsorship.

“Big Daddy” Don Garlits and Judy “Miss Mighty Mopar” Lilly were behind the wheels for their inaugural track run. Garlits drove the car featuring the Stone White paint scheme. Lilly was behind the wheel of the “Mopar Liquid Metal” prototype. NHRA named Garlits the #1 driver of the Top 50 drivers from its first 50 years. His victories and accomplishments are virtually unmatched in drag-racing history. “Miss Mighty Mopar” is one of the female pioneers in drag racing. Spending 12 years on the NHRA circuit, Lilly is the only female driver to win two NHRA national events in one year.

Mopar built the first two Challenger Drag Race Package Cars for development and testing for its new Challenger Package Car program. Based on the Challenger SRT8®, the prototypes were finished in Stock Eliminator configuration. They ran successfully in June 2008 as proof-of-concept and for NHRA certification. Mopar dropped approximately 1,000 lbs. off the production Challenger SRT8 by eliminating major production components and systems. To accentuate the weight savings, they also feature added composite, polycarbonate and lightweight components designed for drag racing that will be part of the new Package Car program.

The engine was repositioned to improve driveline angle and weight distribution. The 116-inch wheelbase was shortened by ½ inch. They also feature a front cradle with bolt-in crossmember and solid engine mounts.

“Today is a great day for Mopar, Dodge, SRT, drag racers and motorsports enthusiasts everywhere. Not made for the streets, our drag-race-only Challengers will be running soon in NHRA competition—the best grassroots racing series in the world,” said Sunil Lahoti, Mopar Marketing and Brand Manager, Chrysler LLC. “And who better to drive our new Challenger Package Cars on their inaugural track run than ‘Big Daddy’ and ‘Miss Mighty Mopar’—the greatest drag racer of all time and a female pioneer of the sport.”

New Dodge Challenger Drag Race Package Car Program by Mopar

The first drag-race, factory-prepped package cars built in 40 years, the new Challenger Drag Race Package Car by Mopar builds on the heritage of the limited-edition 1968 HEMI®-powered Package Cars. Those ‘68 Dodge Darts and Plymouth Barracudas solidified the Mopar brand as a quarter-mile force.

Mopar will build a minimum of 100 Challenger Drag Race Package Cars to meet NHRA requirements. Based on the production Dodge Challenger SRT8, Mopar’s modern factory-prepped Challenger Drag Race Package Car will begin as a special Body-in-White (BIW) from Chrysler’s Brampton, Ontario, Canada, assembly plant. The body sealer, sound deadener and undercoat will be eliminated. To reduce vehicle weight, major production component and systems will also be eliminated including: windshield wiper assembly, complete HVAC system, all airbag components, rear seats, power steering system, exhaust system and underbody heat shields, cross-car and side impact door beams, rear bumper beam and rear deck lid spoiler.

The drag racer has three engine options—6.1-liter or 5.7-liter HEMI or 5.9-liter Magnum® Wedge—as well as manual or automatic transmission.

A build book/owner’s manual will be provided to document the modifications made to the Challenger SRT8 as well as provide recommendations to finish the Package Car for Stock Eliminator competition. To accentuate weight savings, there are unique drag-race components in the Package Car program including: composite lift-off hood with functional scoop, Viper-style front seats, polycarbonate door windows, lightweight cooling module with electric fan, manual rack and pinion steering, special cable-operated deck lid release, special lightweight front brake assembly and special cable-operated throttle linkage and pedal assembly.

The Challenger Drag Race Package Car will be eligible to run in three Eliminator categories—Comp, Super Stock and Stock—and potentially 40 classes.

Depending upon the configuration selected, the U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Challenger Drag Race Package Car program will range from the low to mid $30s. Each car will carry an identification plate with sequential serial number.

The Challenger Drag Race Package Car will be available for order in late August to early September. A toll-free number will be designated for ordering. Details will be posted on www.mopar.com.
Now in its fifth decade, NHRA is the world’s largest motorsports sanctioning body with 80,000 members, 140 member tracks, more than 35,000 licensed competitors and more than 5,000 member-track events. NHRA is second only to NASCAR in terms of fan attendance.

Deco Rides Generation 2 Boattail Speedster

2008-11-27T12:37:00.000-08:00

Deco Rides Generation 2 Boattail Speedster

The Generation Two DECO RIDES Boattail was inspired by Cook’s favorite coachbuilders, two Italians with a shop in Paris. In all automotive history, stylist Joseph (Guiseppi) Figoni and financial partner Ovidio Falaschi achieved the greatest notoriety for their incredibly beautiful but sometimes over the top streamlined custom coachwork. In almost 30 years from the 1930’s to 1950’s, Figoni & Falaschi produced about 1,150 coachbuilt bodies on Delahaye, Delage, Talbot Lago, and even Duesenberg chassis. Envious competitors coined their work as “Phony and Flashy”, but their impact on automotive styling was incredible. The fully enclosed streamlined “pontoon” fenders on DECO RIDES’ Second Generation boattail speedster shown here were inspired by and copied from a Figoni designed 1937 Delahaye that is valued at more than a million dollars.

Originally designed as a full fender car, Cook experimented, creating an open-wheel highboy version of the car. Built using a wrecked 1997 Corvette as the basis, Superior Custom Classics in Hudson, FL created the highboy. A Fat Man Fabrications front suspension, a radically laid back, slightly curved windshield, and aluminum grille were used. Cook thought it would be funny to make the boattail look like a vintage Chris Craft, Gar Wood or Riva speedboat. At his direction, Melissa Brandl of SCC laminated 1/8-inch thick, 48-inch wide sheets of oak veneer (real wood), and bonded them to the top surfaces of the DECO fiberglass Boattail body using contact cement.
After Melissa stained the wood with mahogany, Car Classics of Port Richey, FL, who also did the bodywork prep for paint, masked off the white calking lines on the top of the body and sprayed the rest of the car maroon. The car was sent to One Off Technologies in Gilford, NH where Steve Pierce installed a BMW leather interior and fabricated a folding top that tucks away in the trunk. The next step in the evolution of this car involved Mike Ball of Goshen, IN building a set of bucks and fiberglass molds for the enclosed pontoon fenders. Gary Brown of Brown’s Metal Mods in Indianapolis mounted the fenders and solved the challenge of making the front wheels and tires steer lock-to-lock inside the pontoons.

Eibach Pro-Kit for 2007 Daihatsu Cuore

2008-11-27T12:36:00.000-08:00

Eibach Pro-Kit for 2007 Daihatsu Cuore

The new Daihatsu Cuore is 3.46 metres long, has a kerb weight of 765 kilos and dynamic 70 HP: In this combination, the seventh generation promises pure driving pleasure. In only 11.1 seconds, it goes from 0 to 100 and sprints around every corner. With the Pro-Kit Performance Springs by Eibach, the Cuore becomes the ultimate hero of the city course leaving all others in its wake.

The spring rate of the Pro-Kit, meaning that it becomes tauter the greater the spring deflection, ensuring good traction right from the start of the spring deflection combined with a reduced body roll tendency and a high level of dynamic load, lead to an overall balanced, safe driving behaviour.

2008 Daihatsu TANTO

2008-11-27T12:35:00.002-08:00

2008 Daihatsu TANTO

The TANTO was created in November 2003 as a vehicle with surprising roominess for its size and one that is fun for the entire family. The TANTO gained support among drivers with children for its spaciousness and convenience and pioneered a new mini vehicle genre. Sales have been extremely good, averaging about 8,000 vehicles per month.

The current redesign seeks to transform the surprisingly expansive interior into a highly inspiring space. In addition to enhancing core performance attributes such as high safety performance and excellent fuel efficiency, Daihatsu achieved three significant advances in the unreserved pursuit of the TANTO DNA—expansiveness and convenience:

1) The surprising expansive interior was evolved even further to achieve an exceptionally large space, the largest of any mini vehicle.2
2) The center pillar was removed and a powered sliding door installed (world’s first on a mini vehicle3) to create a amazing feeling of openness and provide for extreme ease of boarding and exiting.
3) Extraordinary utility was created through outstanding convenience in a wide variety of situations in response to calls from mothers with young children.

Two models with unique characteristics are available: the TANTO, which maximizes functional value for families with children that enjoy spending time together, and the TANTO CUSTOM, which seeks aesthetic value that is sure to the captivate the sensibilities of both men and women who place an emphasis on individuality.

The new models also offer the following features:
- The interior and exterior designs of both the TANTO and TANTO CUSTOM have been uniquely coordinated.
- The TANTO has been completely updated, including the platform and the engine, and safety, driving and environmental performance have been further enhanced.

1. TANTO: Italian word meaning “plenty”
2. As of December, 2007, measured by Daihatsu. (Interior length x interior width x interior height.)
3. As of December, 2007, measured by Daihatsu.

Plans call for sales of 8,000 units per month in Japan. The manufacturer’s suggested retail prices range from 1,030,000 yen to 1,655,000 yen (excluding consumption tax).

2008 Cuda Concept Design by Rafael Reston

2008-11-27T12:35:00.001-08:00

2008 Cuda Concept Design by Rafael Reston

Body Style Coupe
Seating Capacity 4
Doors 2
Engine Location Front
Body Material Aluminum body, carbon fiber hood
Weight 1280 kg
Length 4647.97 mm
Width (total) 1921.46 mm (2177.23 mm)
Height 1320.56 mm
Wheelbase 2946.95 mm
Front Track 1665.68 mm
Rear Track 1669.55 mm
Ground Clearance 148.22 mm
Tires Front: 275/30 - ZR 21 Rear: 330/30 - ZR 22
Wheels Front: 21 x 11 - inch machined Aluminum Rear: 22 x 12.5 - inch machined Aluminum
Cargo Volume 390 liters
Fuel Capacity 60 liters
Engine Configuration V
Cylinders 8
Aspiration/Induction Normal
Displacement 5408.7 cc / 330 cu in
Valves 40 valves / 5 valves per cylinder
Valvetrain DOHC
Horsepower 681 Cv @ 7000 RPM
Torque 580 ft-lbs @ 4400 RPM
HP to weight 1.879 Kg / Cv
HP / Liter 126.11 Cv / Liter
Redline 7250 RPM
Compression Ratio 9.2 : 1
Fuel Type Gasoline / Alcohol
Block Aluminum
Head Titanium
Ignition System Coil-on-plug
Intake Manifold Cast aluminum
Exhaust Manifold Cast Iron
Crankshaft Forged Steel
Throttle Body Dual 70mm, eletronic
Connecting Rods Cracked forged steel i-beams
Gears 6
Transmission Manual
1st Gear 2.97
2nd Gear 1.78
3rd Gear 1.30
4th Gear 1.00
5th Gear 0.80
6th Gear 0.63
Final Drive 3.31
Front Brake Size 389.45 mm
Rear Brake Size 324.44 mm
Steering Rack and pinion power assist
Steering Overall Ratio 15.7 : 1
Front Suspension Reverse-L independent MacPherson strut, 34 mm tubular stabilizer bar
Rear Suspension Three-link solid axle with coil springs, Panhard rod,
26 mm solid stabilizer bar

Corvette Z06 427 and Indy 500 in Europe

2008-11-27T12:34:00.001-08:00

Corvette Z06 427 and Indy 500 in Europe

A legendary brand such as Corvette leaves plenty of traces. Traces which deserve to come under the spotlight. So now fans can order two very special limited edition models: one based on the Corvette Indy 500 pace car, and one as a salute to the unforgettable ‘big-block’ Stingray models from the 60’s.

Corvette Indy 500 Pace Car

For ten years - including the last five years in succession - Corvette has provided the official pace car for the world-famous 500-mile race at Indianapolis (Indy 500). To celebrate this milestone, the manufacturer is building five hundred pace car replicas based on both the C6 Coupe and the Convertible. Only twenty Coupes and five Convertibles are available for Europe, all black with a Titanium Grey interior and equipped with automatic transmission. The Convertible has a gray soft top.

The replicas are immediately identifiable from the striking stickers of the pace car, including the Indy 500 logos. What is special is that each one will carry a signature and serial number by former Indy winner Emerson Fittipaldi. Furthermore, each vehicle is fitted with the new polished five-spoke alloy wheels, a Z06 rear spoiler, a DVD navigation system and the Luxury Package. The latter includes heated seats, head-up display with G-force meter, a Bose® 7-speaker system and an automatically dimming rear-view mirror.

Corvette Z06 427 Limited Edition

The 60’s gave rise to many great memories. One of them is undoubtedly the ‘big-block’ Corvette Stingray. With the introduction of the Corvette 427 Limited Edition Z06, Corvette is also awakening memories – in an exclusive way. It is building 505 of these limited edition vehicles, of which only 52 will be coming to Europe.

The number 427 refers to the cylinder capacity in the American unit of measurement, cubic inches. In the years 1966 to ‘69, the most powerful Corvette engines had this capacity – also the cubic inches equivalent to the 7.0 litre LS7 ‘small block’ in the current Z06.

The special limited edition of the Z06 is characterised by a number of unique 427 styling features, such as the Crystal Red Tintcoat metallic paint with ‘stinger style’ graphics, exclusive chromed rims, a leather interior with embroidered 427 logo on the seats and floor mats, ‘Z06’ inscription in the sill strips, and a centre armrest with serial number and signature by Corvette factory director Wil Cooksey.

Both special models are available for order now, with delivery scheduled for this summer. Please contact your local Corvette dealership for price information.

2008 GeigerCars Corvette Z06 Black Edition In Detail

2008-11-27T12:33:00.002-08:00

2008 GeigerCars Corvette Z06 Black Edition In Detail

For years the Corvette has been representative of the very embodiment of the quintessential sports car amongst true motorsport fans. Thanks to Corvettes newest models and their successful racing prototypes performing world wide - most notably in the legendary 24 hour race at Le Mans - the Corvette has evolved to rightfully inspire fear in the eyes of supporters of Porsche and Co.

The Corvette C6 ’s acquisition price of almost 75,000 Euro is one trait that is not to be underestimated. Relative to its features and talents it’s a good value for the money. Although it takes a little more than 10,000 Euro on top to attain the status of the fierce Z06, when compared to the Porsche 911 or the Audi R8 the Vette is a true bargain.

GeigerCars, the American car specialists situated in the Bavarian metropolis of Munich present their own Black Edition of the Corvette Z06. Its modification is not flashy nevertheless it embodies very striking customizations. The Z06 is powered by the familiar V8 block engine possessing a phenomenal 7 liters of capacity, 505 horsepower and an impressive torque of max 5638 lb-in (469.8 lb-ft) at 4,800 revolutions per minute. Thanks to Geiger’s own exclusive Tuning Kit the addition of an extra 78 horsepower is mustered up – increasing maximum performance up to an impressive 583 horsepower. The modifications include an exhaust header with high-performance catalytic converters, a stainless steel exhaust system with four 100mm size tailpipes, an airbox incorporating a 100mm size airflow meter. The v8 motor gains considerable fierceness due to the customized throttle valves, a modified intake system, new valve springs, valve heads made of titanium steel and not to mention the installation of a specially designed camshaft.

An overhauled engine management system ensures that the 8 cylinders generate its 583 horsepower performance smoothly. The total price for this impressive Tuning Kit lies at 13.999 Euro. Untypical for an American vehicle, the Geiger Corvette is outfitted with a 6 gear manual transmission, adding only more fun to the overall package. Thanks to a curb weight of only 1.48 tons a level of road performance is attained that would make any Porsche fan go pale in the face.

Driving pleasure is increased significantly by GeigerCars own low rider design with adjustable high performance shock absorbers. In the front, 10×18 black varnish alloy wheels with 275/35 ZR18 tires mediate contact to the road. In the back 12×19 black varnish alloy wheels with 325/30 ZR19 tires perform their task with pride. With so much torque to tame, it isn’t a problem in the least that the back tires won’t always have everything perfectly under control. Quite the contrary, the brake away tail end only prompts a little smile on your face if you’re one of the more trained drivers- besides; the Corvette Black Edition from Geiger also has a front spoiler as well as a modified rear end diffuser.

2008 Vauxhall VXR8 LS3 Gets Corvette’s 6.2-liter LS3 Engine

2008-11-27T12:33:00.001-08:00

2008 Vauxhall VXR8 LS3 Gets Corvette’s 6.2-liter LS3 Engine

Vauxhall’s mighty VXR8 super-saloon gets a potent new V8 engine this summer, with even more power and improved performance. The new unit allows the VXR8 to raise the bar yet again among its rivals, optimising its sophisticated rear-wheel drive chassis still further and retaining its mantle as a driver’s car like no other in its class. New colour and equipment options further enhance this, the fastest car to wear the Griffin badge.

Known as LS3, the new V8 engine’s capacity grows from 5967cc to 6162cc, and thanks to various improvements over the outgoing LS2 unit, such as high-flow cylinder heads, new pistons and an enhanced valvetrain, power is up by 14PS to 431PS at 6000rpm.

This translates to a reduced 0-60mph time for cars with automatic transmissions (down from 5.0 seconds to 4.9) and improved in-gear acceleration for manual models (50-70mph in 3rd gear drops from 2.8 to 2.6 seconds; 30-50mph in 2nd gear drops from 2.0 to 1.9 seconds). And if you fancy smoking your VXR8 at a track day, you’ll see 80-100mph times fall from 4.3 to just 4.0 seconds in 4th gear.

Despite the VXR8’s enhanced performance credentials, its LS3 produces the same emissions and fuel consumption as the outgoing LS2 unit. In addition, the VXR8 automatic receives a transmission oil cooler as standard.

Buyers for the LS3-engined VXR8s also receive the choice of an all-new body colour - Heron White – at no extra cost, as well as the option of factory-fit 20-inch rims for the first time on this model.

Prices for both manual and automatic versions of the LS3-powered VXR8, which are on sale now, rise by £485 to £35,695.

2008 MyCar Electric City Car

2008-11-27T12:32:00.000-08:00

2008 MyCar Electric City Car

Introducing MyCar, the all-electric city car that’s set to take the motor show by storm. It’s a two-seater, with a truly international pedigree; designed by Giugiaro of Italdesign , made in Hong Kong and on sale through the NICE Car Company in London come Autumn.

MyCar will start from £8,995 and comes with a two-year warranty. It is available in seven color options, albeit every MyCar will be ‘green’. That’s because there are no emissions. It’s an electric car, so there isn’t even a tailpipe.

Running costs are very low, roughly one fifteenth compared to a conventional petrol or diesel model. Depending on electricity tariff used to charge the vehicle, owners will pay around 2p per mile.

MyCar has a range of around 40 miles in normal city driving, easily sufficient for the majority of urban motoring. Top speed is 40 mph with re-charge time between six and eight hours There’s no CO2 emissions which means no road tax. MyCar will also be congestion charge exempt and parking concessions are available in many London boroughs1 and in other parts of the UK. More on-street charging points will further increase its appeal.

Standard equipment for MyCar includes electric windows and mirrors, Radio/MP3 player, 14” Alloy wheels, remote central locking, Hi/lo and boost button and LCD multifunction display. It also has storage space under the bonnet, in the boot and in the glove compartment.

Options include a glass roof or removable fiberglass version. MyCar can also be specified with 15” Alloy wheels, leather interior, cooled and heated seats and a boot rack. All option prices are to be confirmed.

Two innovative features are work ‘n’ play and drive ‘n’ play options. The first incorporates a forward-folding passenger seat complete with laptop dock, the latter includes bluetooth, sat-nav and upgraded audio.

MyCar is made of fiberglass reinforced plastic on a steel tubular spaceframe with tubular roll-bar. It has disc brakes and independent front and rear suspension.

It is one of three all-electric cars that will debut on the NICE Car Company stand, N25 at the motor show. The NICE Car Company press briefing takes place at 14.15 but media are invited to come along at any time during the day to learn more.

THiNK City Electric Car Debut British International Motor Show

2008-11-27T12:27:00.000-08:00

TH!NK City Electric Car Debut British International Motor Show

The arrival on Britain’s roads of the first fully electric-powered car moves one step closer today with the UK motor show debut of the new TH!NK city electric vehicle.

Displayed at the 2008 British International Motor Show at ExCeL London by Norwegian electric vehicle pioneers Think, a company with 17 years experience in electric vehicles, the new TH!NK city will be available for UK customer orders next summer.

TH!NK city is a true, modern urban car, not a quadricycle. It is a fully environmental vehicle, emission free and 95 percent recyclable. With an energy efficiency three times that of a traditional combustion engine car, it is a vehicle that realistically meets the growing challenges of environmental protection, traffic congestion and emissions legislation.

The two-seater urban car has a top speed of 65 miles per hour. It accelerates from zero to 30 mph in just 6.5 seconds and to 50 mph in 16 seconds. It requires just an overnight top-up of electricity and can travel for 126 miles in city driving on a fully charged battery.

To charge the batteries from 20 per cent capacity to 80 percent takes just four hours. Over 10,000 miles use, the total cost of electricity used to power a TH!NK city will be in the region of £100.

TH!NK city is designed to meet the strict safety requirements of both Europe and the USA, as a genuinely-safe road car. It is the world’s only crash-tested and highway-certified EV. The car is equipped with ABS brakes, airbags and three-point safety belts with pretensioners and it surpasses all European and US requirements.

“Unlike the lower-range, electric quadricycles that have had limited success in the UK, the TH!NK city is a real car which provides a realistic option for those motorists who want to drive a true zero emissions car,” said Richard Blundell, Managing Director of Think UK.

“Concern for the environment has been at the heart of the development of TH!NK city. It’s not only environmentally sound to drive, but the car itself is designed to be recycled,” he said, “Driving a silent car will give urban motorists a totally new experience. The TH!NK city produces no waste heat and no pollution. Critically for London and many other urban markets it beats the congestion charge!”

“Moreover, the TH!NK city is fund to drive, cheap to run, great to look at, generates incredible mileage figures and is extremely kind on the environment. This is a proposition that we believe will interest many drivers who are re-thinking their approach to motoring,” he added.

Engineers, developers, buyers and designers in the Think company have focused on utilising clean recyclable materials and non-polluting production processes. The dashboard can be completely recycled. The fabrics, body, supports, air ducts, adhesives and fixings are designed using the same recyclable materials.

TH!NK city’s body is made of recyclable ABS plastic, designed specifically for city driving. Not only is it ideal for motorists who want to avoid visible scratches and irritating dents, the unpainted, self-colored plastic bodywork also reduces both energy consumption and toxins, while making the panels easier to recycle. The battery is returned to the supplier at the end of its useable life.

These factors have been warmly welcomed by the auto insurance industry, resulting in reduced auto insurance rates by as much as 30-50 per cent.

Standard equipment on each TH!NK city includes power steering, central locking, a 4kW electric heater, and electric windows and mirrors. Optional equipment will include air conditioning, a pre-heat timer, electrically heated windscreen, full length sunroof, Radio CD with MP3, USB, Bluetooth, a navigation & multimedia system, alloy wheels, roof rack and 2 + 2 child seats (including 3-point seat belts)

Production started this year in Norway, and the first batch of right-hand drive cars will be delivered to UK customers in summer 2009. Prices of the TH!NK city will be announced closer to the on-sale date.

2008 Foose Coupe In Detail

2008-11-27T12:26:00.002-08:00

2008 Foose Coupe In Detail

Hillbank Motor Corporation, the home of Superformance Distribution and Shelby Distribution USA delivered its first Foose Coupe to its lucky new owner. “It was a very proud day for us,” said Lance Stander, CEO of Superformance Distribution. “We wish the new owner all the best and lots of fun driving.”

This particular Coupe is the fourth built and only the second available to the public. It features a unique paint scheme featuring a carbon fiber spears on the front, back, and sides surrounded by flames hand painted by Chip Foose himself. Power comes from a 392ci (6.4L) Hemi V8 producing approximately 500 horsepower and 480 lb-ft torque, with power being sent to the wheels through a 5-speed manual transaxle. The polished aluminum wheels are Foose-designed, and are wrapped with Pirelli PZero tires. Inside, the Foose Coupe features plush leather seating with 4-point safety harnesses, carbon fiber trim, and a pistol grip shifter.

About the Foose Coupe

The Foose Coupe debuted at the 2006 SEMA Show to incredible reviews from the automotive press and community and is available to the public as a signature series limited edition vehicle available through Superformance Distribution. Production will be limited to just 50 vehicles. The Foose Coupe features a carbon fiber monocoque body, independent front and rear suspension, 14-inch, 6-piston Baer brakes, and 20-inch Pirelli PZero tires. Each vehicle is signed by Chip and will be documented in the Foose Registry.

Foose Coupe Features:
• Design: Stylized and Conceived by Chip Foose
• Builder: Metalcrafters, Inc.
• Vehicle Type: Limited Edition, Mid-Engine, Rear Wheel Drive, 2 Passenger, 2 Door Coupe
• Engine: 6.4 L (392 cu.in.) Mopar Hemi V-8, Iron Block, Aluminum Heads or 5.4 L DOHC, 32-Valve, 90-Degree V-8, Ford GT Aluminum Heads
• Fuel Delivery System: Individual Hilborn Throttle Bodies with Velocity Stack Air Intakes (8), AEM Electronic Fuel Injection
• Transmission: ZF 5-Speed Manual Transaxle
• Body and Chassis: Carbon Fiber Monocoque Cabin on Modular Steel Space Frame
• Suspension: Front: Independent, Unequal Length Control Arms, Inboard-mounted Koni Coilover Shock Absorbers Actuated by Rocker Arms. Rear: Independent, Unequal Length Control Arms, Koni Coilover Shock Absorbers
• Brakes: 6-piston Baer Monoblock Calipers, 14″ Cross-drilled and Vented Rotors, Tilton Series 75 Master Cylinder
• Steering: Woodward Rack and Pinion
• Tires/Wheels: Front: 225/40 ZR 18 Pirelli PZero on 20 x8 Foose Polished, Rear: 315/35 ZR 20 Pirelli PZero on 20 x12 Foose Polished
• General Data: Weight: 2775 lbs, Overall Length: 163.89″, Overall Width: 91.50″, Overall Height: 45.39″, Wheelbase: 120″, Track: 60.94″ (Front), 65.51″ (Rear)

About Superformance Distribution

Based in Irvine, CA, Superformance Distribution is the official distributor for the Foose Coupe and has distributed specialty constructed cars in the United States and Worldwide, for more than twelve years. Superformance and Shelby Distribution USA (Exclusive Distributer of Shelby continuation series Cobra`s) has 38 dealers throughout the world and have earned a reputation for their attention to detail, quality, and craftsmanship. For more information on Superformance vehicles, visit www.superformance.com or www.shelbydistributionusa.com call 949-90....

New Clarion 3D Navigation System

2008-11-27T12:26:00.001-08:00

New Clarion 3D Navigation System

New portable navigation devices offer greater guidance Clarion’s latest portable navigation units are the first to map buildings, landmarks and elevation changes in 3D, and combined with comprehensive lane information and turn-by-turn voice prompts (text to speech), deliver the clearest, most convenient route advice yet.

The MAP780 (Europe) and MAP680 (UK & Ireland) use two separate high-performance programs to draw buildings in the foreground and background. Buildings close to the driver appear see-through as you approach them, so as not to obstruct the view of the next junction, whilst buildings further away are textured and solid, making them lifelike and easily recognisable as reference points while driving.

Both PND’s utilise digital elevation model data to draw height and depth features, with hills and mountains rendered in 3D while you drive, to create the most realistic view, at all levels of zoom. Elevation information is also applied to the road network for rendering of shadows, to display roads and bridges at their correct height for a greater clarity of route guidance.

Clarion has also incorporated comprehensive lane information for the first time, with all lanes available rendered in 3D, and the one needed highlighted, for a more intuitive navigation experience.

In another first, thanks to Bluetooth technology, Clarion’s latest portable navigation devices also display SMS (text) messages on-screen, as well giving seamless touch-screen access to a paired phone or PDA, whilst audio streaming (A2DP) and MP3/WMA playback is also possible via a built-in music player.

Enhanced entertainment features on the 2008 PND also feature a movie player, allowing users to download up to 4GB of MP4 video via MMC or SD card, whilst a digital photo album allows the user to upload pictures via SD card or the built-in USB port.

The MAP780 and MAP680 are priced at £269 and £229 respectively, and are available via Clarion appointed dealers across the UK. For more information, call Clarion (GB) Ltd., on 01793 870400, or visit www.clarion.co.uk.

2008 Citroen C Crosser 2.4i On Sale UK

2008-11-27T12:25:00.001-08:00

2008 Citroen C Crosser 2.4i On Sale UK

Citroen is enhancing its C-Crosser range with a new model that features a more powerful, 170hp 2.4 litre petrol engine. With a competitive price of just £19,995 rrp, the new entry-level VTR version adds even more value for money to the model’s style and versatility.

This new petrol engine will also be available on both the VTR+ and Exclusive trim levels with a new Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) which offers good efficiency, fuel consumption and performance. With 25% of SUV buyers choosing automatic transmission this new unit will appeal to a significant number of potential customers.

Providing the convenience of an automatic, with an infinite number of ratios, together with the driver involvement of a manual, thanks to a “Sport Mode” function, the CVT features steering wheel mounted paddles to allow the engine to rev higher and boost driver enjoyment. The system avoids unnecessary gear shifts, provides engine braking and smooth ‘gearchanges’ whilst continuously and automatically adapting to engine load and conditions. This convenience comes with no penalty to fuel consumption, with the CVT transmission returning a better combined fuel consumption figure.

Despite the keen pricing, the new 5-seater VTR will feature a high level of standard equipment including automatic folding of the reclining and sliding split rear seats, cruise control, light sensitive headlights and a split tailgate. In addition, an array of advanced safety features such as ABS with EBD and ESP and 6 airbags are all fitted as standard.

2009 Citroen C4 Facelift In Details

2008-11-27T12:24:00.001-08:00

2009 Citroen C4 Facelift In Details

The C4, launched in late 2004 as a hatchback and coupe, has been an immense success for Citroen, selling nearly 900,000 units sold worldwide.

Citroen has made a number of changes to the C4 to make it even more:
- elegant, dynamic and efficient
- economical and low on emissions
- interactive and communicative

Citroen has made some judicious styling tweaks to strengthen the car’s successful design, which has been a hit with the public right from the start. The restyle focused on the front end, emphasising its elegance, strength and energy.

The interior has also been redesigned. Citroen has added new upholstery and a new grain on several trim parts, and incorporated the rev counter in the middle of the dashboard.

Engine-wise, the C4 is now available with two new petrol engines co-developed with BMW. The VTi 120 and THP 150 units bring even more on-road pleasure and significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

The HDi diesel engine range has been further enhanced, with many powerplants qualifying for the Airdream eco-signature. The 2-litre HDi diesel engine is the first to comply with the future Euro V standard in this family. Through the use of new technology (such as low-rolling resistance tires), several versions with the HDi 92 or HDi 110 paired with a manual or EGS6 gearbox can limit their emissions to 120 g/km of CO2.

The new C4 boasts a richer array of telematics equipment, notably a new-generation navigation system – MyWay – which comes with a Bluetooth function and can be connected to portable equipment.

The restyled C4 retains all the features that have made it a trailblazer in the segment on driving pleasure and safety, including Xenon dual function directional headlamps, the lane departure warning system, the fixed-centered controls steering wheel and hill start assist.

The new C4 will be world premiered at the Moscow International Motor Show, which will open on 26 August 2008.

- Stronger build, confirmed character

The new C4 hatchback and coupe have a powerful, energetic, elegant style. The new bumper features a single air intake and a rounder, beefier bonnet, giving the C4 a strong, robust appearance.

New curves have been added to the grille, with chevrons inspired by the new C5, enhancing the overall elegance. Upmarket versions of the new C4 feature more chrome touches, notably on the front fog lamps, for added style and prestige.

Overall length has been stretched by 15 mm, to a total 4,275 mm for the hatchback and 4,288 for the coupe.

The rear light fixtures on the coupe are now in transparent crystal.

The revamped model is available with three new aluminum wheel styles for a totally renewed offering. The wheels come in 16-inch (Olympie) and 17-inch (Ribalta and Volubilis) versions according to engine, trim level and market.

Three new body colours are available: Récife blue (dynamic trim), and Bourrasque blue and Thorium grey (prestige trims).

- A modernised interior for enhanced comfort

A number of changes have been made to the cabin layout.

- The central display unit, which now incorporates the rev counter, has been redesigned for more comfort and safety. The translucent instrument cluster, which guarantees optimum contrast whatever the outside light conditions, ensures clear visibility at all times. All the useful driving information can be read safely at a glance on the display unit positioned at the top of the dashboard, as close as possible to the road.

- Citroen has added a new grain to the dashboard and the door panel medallions.

- A new seat fabric in velour is available for the second trim level. New light grey “Lama” leather upholstery is offered on the Exclusive and VTS trim levels.

- The Marque has developed new interior design schemes for the SX (or Comfort), VTR, VTR Pack, SX Pack and Exclusive trim levels.

The central air vents on the SX (or Comfort) version and all the decorative elements on the SX Pack (or Pack Ambiance depending on the markets) are highlighted in “Tungsten” paint. The VTR and VTR Pack versions get the “Multicub” look. Exclusive trim models ship with “Bocage” paint.

Dual zone climate control, available since the C4 was launched, tops off the interior comfort, with individual temperature control on the driver’s and passenger’s sides.

The C4 cabin remains one of the roomiest in the segment. Front elbow room of 1.44 m and rear elbow room of 1.43 m ensure that all passengers travel in comfort. Passenger room for the hatch and coupe remains identical.

Efficient, economical engines

- HDi diesel engines

Citroën’s HDi diesel engines have set the standard in terms of comfort and environmental impact. The C4 range now offers the biggest-ever selection of Airdream engines. The Airdream eco-signature covers the 1.6-litre versions (HDi 92, HDi 110 DPFS with a manual gearbox and EGS6) and 2-litre versions with a manual gearbox.

The 2-litre HDi unit, coupled with a six-speed manual gearbox, has been upgraded to comply with the future Euro V standard. Fitted as standard with a particulate filter, the new HDi 140 DPFS, is flexible, dynamic and low on emissions. It now develops 103 kW of power (140 bhp EEC). Fuel consumption has been homologated at 5.3 l/100 km, over a combined cycle, while CO2 emissions are down to just 140 g/km.

The other diesel units – the HDi 92 (with or without DPFS) and HDi 110 DPFS – are as dynamic as before, and even cleaner.

These improvements result from the switch to low-rolling resistance Michelin Energy Saver tyres, available on 16-inch wheels.

Citroen has reduced the fuel consumption of both the HDi 92 and HDi 110 DPFS powerplants, to 4.4 l/100 km for the HDi 92, 4.4 l/100 km for the HDi 110 DPFS manual and 4.4 l/100 km for the HDi 110 DPFS EGS6 over a combined cycle, on the versions fitted with these tyres. CO2 emissions have been cut to 117 g/km, 119 g/km and 118 g/km, respectively.

- New petrol engines

The C4 is now available with two petrol engines from the EP family co-developed with the BMW Group. It is the first Citroen to be fitted with engines from this family, namely the VTi 120, replacing the 1.6i 16V, and the THP 150, replacing the 2.0i 16V.

The VTi 120 and THP 150 provide a perfect blend of performance, driving pleasure and fuel economy, with significantly lower consumption and CO2 emissions.

C4 VTi 120: dynamic and economical

Mainly through better management of intake, the VTi 120 engine offers higher performance and therefore combines more power with low fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions.

The C4’s VTi 120 engine has a capacity of 1,598 cm3 and develops 88 kW EEC (120 bhp EEC) at a speed of 6,000 rpm, for maximum torque of 160 Nm at 4,250 rpm.

These characteristics make the car much more pleasurable to drive, with plenty of torque always on hand: 90% or more of maximum torque is available between 2,500 rpm and 5,750 rpm.

Mated to a five-speed manual gearbox, the engine returns 6.7 l/100 km (159 g/km of CO2) over a combined cycle, down 6% on the old unit.

The C4 VTi 120 therefore scores a neutral rating in France’s new emissions bonus/surcharge system. The VTi 120 unit also ships with a four-speed automatic, for fuel consumption of 7 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 165 g/km.

VTi stands for “Variable valve lift and Timing Injection”. Fitted with an aluminium block and cylinder head, the 16 valves are driven by intake and exhaust camshafts with continuously variable valve timing. The intake valves also benefit from a variable raising system that allows the valves’ maximum travel to be adjusted gradually depending on the force applied to the accelerator pedal.

These two features boost engine efficiency, increasing the responsiveness of the vehicle through higher available torque, especially in the most frequent driving conditions (part loads).

C4 THP 150: an outstanding combination of high performance and low fuel consumption and emissions

With direct petrol injection and a turbocharger, the new THP 150 offers both high performance and low consumption.

The new unit develops maximum power of 110 kW (150 bhp EEC) at 5,800 rpm, for maximum torque of 240 Nm from 1,400 rpm to 4,000 rpm. These figures ensure driving pleasure akin to that provided by the HDi diesel units at low and medium engine speeds, with 156 Nm of torque available from as low as 1,000 rpm.

Mated to the new MCM six-speed gearbox (with the same architecture as the EGS6), fuel consumption over a combined cycle is 6.9 l/100 km (for 164 g/km of CO2), down a full 10% on the previous engine.

The C4 is also available with a four-speed automatic gearbox, for maximum power of 103 kW (140 bhp EEC). Maximum torque remains the same, at 240 Nm at 1,400 rpm. Combined-cycle fuel consumption is 7.7 l/100 km, down 5% compared with the previous powerplant.

The THP 150 engine and the THP 140 version use the same architecture as the VTi 120.

The unit features several technical particularities that give it outstanding performance for an engine of its size. Comparable to the downsizing applied to the Marque’s HDi engines, the technology used for the THP 150 unit brings significant gains over normally-aspirated engines.

Two of these technologies are completely new to the C4 range: direct petrol injection and the use of a turbocharger.

The THP engine (for Turbo High Pressure) features direct sequential injection fed by a high-pressure electronic pump. Linked to a turbocharger, the system has an intake camshaft with continuous variable timing.

The main characteristics of the engine are as follows:

- Direct injection, which combines specific high power with low fuel consumption. This high pressure is obtained via a pump mounted at the end of the intake camshaft. Maximum pressure of 120 bars allows the injectors to spray the mixture directly into the combustion chamber sideways, ensuring uniform distribution. The compression ratio is 10.5 to 1.

- A twin-scroll turbocharger. The particularity of this system is that it groups the gas ducts by pair (cylinders 1-4 and 2-3) in the exhaust manifold. The optimal gas flow combination this provides makes the turbine extremely fast-acting and considerably cuts down on lag time. The turbine can rotate at up to 200,000 rpm, developing pressure limited electronically by the discharge valve to 0.8 bars. Turbocharging is noticeable from 1,000 rpm.

- A cylinder head with two overhead camshafts. The intake camshaft benefits from continuous variable timing, which provides more torque at low engine speeds while reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

- An oil pump with throughput regulation, which supplies the right amount of lubrication for optimal functioning and reduces fuel consumption by 1%. This system also features an oil intercooler, fitted in the filter and regulated by a thermostat, for faster heating and excellent temperature management, even during rough handling.

- A crankcase in two parts, with a cylinder casing and a bearing cap casing, in aluminium, for extra stiffness and reduced noise emissions.

More telematics equipment

The telematics equipment on the C4 has been completely revamped to offer new services for driver and passengers.

- MyWay, a new integrated navigation system with a 7-inch panoramic colour screen is now available at entry level, rounding out the current offering. The system features a radio and MP3/WMA-compatible CD player along with auxiliary RCA sockets in the glovebox for connecting portable media devices. MyWay includes a map of Europe, integrated on SD card media and displayed in 2D or 3D. Traffic conditions are indicated in real time. MyWay also features a Bluetooth hands-free kit with an information and address book display. Functions are controlled from the fixed-centred controls steering wheel or via the radio. The new system will be available in the second half of 2008 and will be priced extremely competitively.

- The NaviDrive system has been upgraded. It now features a high-resolution (800 x 480 pixels) 7-inch panoramic screen and a USB socket, located on the central console, for MP3 players using the “Mass Storage” system. Portable media players are controlled from the steering wheel or the radio. Existing NaviDrive features include: a hard disk with European maps, a hands-free telephone (using a SIM card or a twin SIM card) and voice recognition/synthesis. The Jukebox function, with a 10GB capacity, can store up to 180 hours of music from a CD or an MP3-format USB key. The emergency and assistance call system remains. Motorists can call a platform that sends out the emergency services. The call is made manually or automatically, if at least one airbag is activated. This system is available 24/7 in eight European countries. In addition, subscription to the service, via a SIM card, is free throughout the lifetime of the vehicle.

- An optional USB Box will be launched at the end of the year for the CD audio system. Two sockets, one USB and one jack, built into the central console can be used to connect portable media players using the Mass Storage system and IAP protocols (iPod and iPhone) and MTP (Microsoft Plays for Sure). Controls are located on the fixed-centred controls steering wheel and the radio console. The central screen display provides information on system use.

Top-level safety features

- High-tech equipment that makes all the difference

Launched at end-2004, the C4 is still a standard-setter in the segment on innovative equipment. C4 safety features include:

- Xenon dual-function directional headlamps, which can swivel up to 15° for enhanced lighting in corners,

- front and rear parking assist, with a dashboard display of objects and distances,

- the lane departure warning system, which functions from speeds of 80 km/h to combat drowsiness at the wheel,

- fixed-centred controls steering wheel, which groups all essential driving functions right in front of the driver and features a shape-optimised driver’s airbag for more efficiency,

- laminated side windows, for ultra-low cabin noise and top-level passenger safety,

- hill start assist with the 6-speed electronic gearbox system, which frees up the driver from arduous starts on inclines,

- speed limiter and cruise control, making it easier to respect speed limits.

- Safe and enjoyable to drive

As before, the C4 is first and foremost a real treat to drive. Drivers get exceptional precision and on-road pleasure from the C4’s spot-on steering, with just the right amount of power assistance, and its sophisticated suspension system, featuring judiciously worked springs and shock absorbers.

The C4 hatchback scored very well in EuroNCAP tests, with 5 stars for frontal impact, 4 stars for child safety and 3 stars for pedestrian safety. That makes the C4 still the highest-scoring vehicle in the small family car segment in all three categories.

2009 Citroen C3 Picasso Is Revealed

2008-11-27T12:23:00.002-08:00

2009 Citroen C3 Picasso Is Revealed

With the C3 Picasso, Citroen is once again shaking up conventional automotive ideas, introducing an innovative concept that is sure to play a leading role in the B2 MPV segment.

The C3 Picasso bears all the hallmark creativity of Citroen and stands out with its bold styling, innovative architecture and outstanding ingenuity. It does more than simply sublimate the qualities of an MPV. The high-set seating and onboard visibility will delight all passengers, while the vehicle’s complete and intuitive modular design will make their day-to-day life a charm. And the newcomer’s nimble roadholding will satisfy drivers looking for pleasure and involvement at the wheel.

The new C3 family body style will be presented at this year’s Paris Motor Show, ahead of launch in first-quarter 2009.

Devilish charm

Citroen has skillfully played off the opposing qualities of round vs. square, strength vs. charm, modernity vs. retro, and large volume vs. flowing lines to design a vehicle with breakthrough styling and an appealing, impish personality.

The C3 Picasso’s pure and functional body styling expresses its fundamental purpose: passenger comfort at all times in all situations.

Small outside, big inside

The C3 Picasso’s particularly innovative architecture makes it small outside and cavernous inside. Measuring 4.08 m long, 1.73 m wide and 1.62 m tall, it has a surprisingly compact front end and a strictly vertical rear end. These original proportions provide an incredible amount of cabin room. The boot is equally capacious, boasting up to 500 liters VDA under the parcel shelf with all five seats in place.

Making life easier

The C3 Picasso revolutionizes user-friendliness with its intuitive modular design that allows owners to optimize interior space in record time. The split-fold rear seats slide independently over 150 mm for the comfort of all passengers, whatever their shape or size. The seats can be folded away with one hand in one simple movement using controls on the upper part of the rear seat backs. Combined with a mobile boot floor, this function provides a completely flat loading space right up to the seatbacks in row one. Load length can be further extended by folding the front passenger seat back down into desk position.

Wide-angle view

The driving position offers unrivalled wide-angle vision thanks to the innovative, three-part windscreen with slim pillars and the high seating position that gives drivers a commanding view of the road. Wrapped in a striking glass envelope, the cabin is flooded with light. At up to 4.52 m with the panoramic roof, the glazed surface on the C3 Picasso is one of the largest in the segment.

The MPV as “pleasuremobile”

C3 Picasso drivers get a whole new experience of driving pleasure that sets the bar high in the segment. The car’s compact dimensions and tight turning circle make it impressively agile and able to dodge obstacles with ease. The C3 Picasso has a vehicle attitude worthy of a saloon, bringing drivers complete peace of mind in all driving conditions.

The C3 Picasso is also fitted with a range of high-performance, economical engines. It will ship with two new-generation petrol units – the VTi 95 and VTi 120 – and two diesels, the HDi 90 and HDi 110 DPFS, renowned for their driving pleasure and efficiency. These engines provide low CO2 emissions, with the HDi 90 unit emitting just 125 g/km.

C3 Picasso models fitted with HDi engines carry the Airdream® environmental signature that identifies the Citroen models with the best environmental credentials.

Citroen, Europe’s No.1 MPV manufacturer, has announced details of an exciting new addition to its award-winning Picasso family - the innovative, stylish and ingenious C3 Picasso. With an intrepid personality, spacious interior, intuitive layout, and nimble road manners, the Company’s newest MPV will make its debut in October at the Paris Motor Show before its UK launch in mid 2009.

The creative C3 Picasso brings together the often contradictory elements of strength and charm, contemporary styling and retro, round shapes and square and vast volumes and flowing lines. This impish new car really has a unique personality and presence all of its own.

As you’d expect from a Citroen MPV, comfort and practicality are key priorities. With external dimensions measuring 4.08m long, 1.73m wide and 1.62m tall, the C3 Picasso is deceptively spacious internally, the modular layout provides a user-friendly environment that can allow individuals to optimize the cabin space.

The split-folding rear seats slide independently, offering the best possible legroom or load space. When extra storage space is required, the rear seats can be folded away in one effortless motion using simple seatback mounted controls, whilst a mobile boot floor provides a level loading space up to the first row seat back. To benefit fully from the space in the car, the front passenger seat can also be folded completely flat to increase the load length and to create a table top,

Just like the C4 Picasso, the C3 Picasso offers occupants a light and bright driving environment thanks largely to an innovative three-part windscreen that helps give the car one of the largest glazed areas in the segment. The high-seating position gives drivers optimum visibility, whilst the wraparound windows and a panoramic glass roof allow light to flood into the cabin.

The C3 Picasso will arrive with a choice of engines that offer both good performance and economy, with two new-generation petrol units available – the VTi 95hp and VTi 120hp – as well as two diesels, the HDi 90hp and HDi 110bhp.

2008 Chrysler Town Country and Dodge Grand Caravan get IIHS Top Safety Rating

2008-11-27T12:23:00.001-08:00

2008 Chrysler Town Country and Dodge Grand Caravan get IIHS Top Safety Rating

The all-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan earned “good” ratings, the highest ratings available from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), in both frontal offset and side crashworthiness tests.

“Minivans are the one of the safest vehicles on the road and our all-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan are built with more than 25 years of proven engineering innovations”, said Larry Lyons, Vice President – Car and Minivan Product Team, Chrysler LLC. “Our Chrysler and Dodge minivans come loaded with standard features including all-row supplemental side-curtain air bags, advance multi-stage front driver and passenger air bags and an Electronic Stability Program.”

Chrysler and Dodge minivans are committed to safety and security and IIHS tests are one of the many metrics, along with U.S. Federal Government requirements and internal metrics used to continually improve vehicle performance.

All-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country

The all-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country offers an all-new contemporary appearance, three different models, three distinct seating and storage systems, unmatched entertainment systems and safety features. The Chrysler Town & Country has 35 new and improved features, including a new 4.0-liter V-6 engine mated to a minivan-first six-speed transaxle, more standard equipment including Electronic Stability Program (ESP). The newest feature is the Swivel ‘n Go™ seating system, offering second row seats that swivel 180 degrees to face the third row with a removable table that installs between the two rows, covered storage bins in the floor and the second row, third-row uncovered storage and fold-in-the-floor third-row seating. The 2008 Chrysler Town & Country has received the U.S. Government’s highest Five Star crash test rating in both front and side impacts. The starting U.S. MSRP of the new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country is $23,595.

All-new 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan

As the first to introduce the modern minivan in 1984, Dodge continues to revolutionize the family road trip. Its all-new 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan has 35 new or improved features including the exclusive Swivel ‘n Go™ seating system, turning the minivan into a “family room on wheels.” The vehicle also offers an entertainment system with dual DVD players and SIRIUS Backseat TV with family programming channels that include Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network Mobile. The 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan has received the U.S. Government’s highest Five Star crash test rating in both front and side impacts. The starting U.S. MSRP of the new 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan is $22,700.

More than 40 Safety and Security Features

The all-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan offer more than 40 safety and security features including:

Advanced multi-stage air bags: Uses a low-risk deployment air bag for the front passenger All-speed Traction Control: Senses drive-wheel slip and applies individual brakes to a slipping wheel(s), and can reduce excess engine power until traction is regained

Anti-lock Brake System (ABS): Senses and prevents wheel lockup, offering improved steering control under extreme braking and/or slippery conditions

Auto-reverse sun roof: Advanced sensing system that automatically engages and reverses the sun roof (to the open position)

Auto-reverse windows: Automatically engages and reverses the driver’s side window (to the down position)

Brake Assist: In a panic brake condition, the system applies maximum braking power, providing the shortest possible stopping distance

Brake/Park interlock: Prevents an automatic transmission or transaxle from being shifted out of Park unless the brake pedal is applied

Child seat anchor system: LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) is designed to ease installation of compatible aftermarket child seats

Child-protection rear door locks: Disables the rear doors’ inside-release handle via a small lever on the door-shut face

Constant-Force Retractors (CFR): Distributes force or load exerted on a seat belt, and then gradually releases the seat-belt webbing in a controlled manner

Crumple zones: Designed to compress during an accident in order to absorb energy from an impact, decreasing transfer of that energy to the occupants

Digressive load-limiting seat belts: Retractor senses a vehicle impact and immediately applies a load to the seat belt in order to properly position the occupant before the full load from the vehicle impact is imparted onto the occupant. It then reduces the seat belt load to moderate forces imparted onto the occupant during the impact event

Door Alert: Periodically activates a chime and illuminates an icon in the instrument cluster to remind the driver if a vehicle is driven without the doors being properly closed

Electronic Stability Program (ESP): Enhances driver control and helps maintain directional stability under all conditions. Provides the greatest benefit in critical driving situations such as turns, and is especially valuable when driving on mixed surface conditions including snow, ice or gravel. If there’s a discernible difference between what the driver asks through the steering wheel and the vehicle’s path, ESP applies selective braking and throttle input in order to put the vehicle back onto the driver’s intended path

Energy-absorbing steering column: The steering column utilizes two hydroformed coaxial tubes that can move relative to each other in order to allow the column to move forward for enhanced energy-absorption during a crash

Enhanced Accident Response System (EARS): Makes it easier for emergency personnel to see and reach occupants in the event of an accident by turning on the interior lighting and unlocking the doors after air bag deployment. Also shuts off the flow of fuel to the engine

Head rests in all positions: Each seating position, including Swivel ‘n Go™ and third-row middle seat, utilize head restraints

Height-adjustable front seat belts: Allows occupants to raise and lower the shoulder belt. Encourages seat belt usage by offering a comfortable fit

High-intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps: Provide approximately three times the light output of conventional reflector lamps for improved nighttime illumination

HomeLink universal home security system transceiver: Stores three separate transmitter radio-frequency codes to operate garage-door openers, security gates, security lighting or other radio-controlled devices Integrated child booster seats: Allow children up to 4-foot 9-inches tall and between 48 and 85 pounds to sit in the adult-belted zone and are available with the Swivel ‘n Go™ seating system

Integrated Child Seats: Designed for children at least one year old, between 22 and 50 pounds and are no more than 47 inches tall. Seats are conveniently designed within an available second-row bench seat Interior head-impact protection: Interior pillars above the beltline and instrument panel, including areas around windshield and rear window headers, roof and side-rail structures, and shoulder belt turning loops specifically designed to limit head-impact force

Keyless ignition system: A fob with integrated key and a wireless ignition node with integral ignition switch replace the metal key. The double-sided integrated key is inserted into the ignition switch to start the vehicle. The fob also contains the Remote Keyless Entry and a removable valet key

Knee bolsters: The lower instrument panel and the glovebox door are designed to properly position the occupant, enabling air bags to work effectively Occupant Resistant Controller (ORC) with rollover sensor: Determines the appropriate output for the multi-stage driver and low-risk front-passenger deployment air bags, along with side air bag curtains during a rollover event ParkSense® Rear Park Assist System: Assists at low speeds in Reverse to detect stationary objects. Consists of visible (interior lights seen with rearview mirror) and audible warnings for the driver ParkView™ Rear Back-up Camera: Provides a wide-angle view of the area immediately behind the vehicle, giving the driver greater peace of mind before backing up. Also aids in lining up a trailer to the vehicle’s trailer hitch, when so equipped. The image automatically displays on the navigation screen when the transmission is shifted into Reverse

Power-adjustable pedals: Allows brake and accelerator pedals to move toward or away from the driver in order to help achieve a safe and comfortable seating position for improved vehicle control

Power liftgate with obstacle detection: Detects obstacles in the path of a closing power liftgate and will automatically stop and reverse the power-closing operation

Power sliding passenger doors with obstacle detection: Detects obstacles in the path of a closing power sliding door and will automatically stop and reverse the power-closing operation

Rearview interior conversation mirror: A convex mirror located in the overhead console above the inside rear-view mirror allows the driver to see rear-seat occupants while looking forward

Remote Keyless Entry: Locks and unlocks doors, and turns on interior lamps. If the vehicle is equipped with a vehicle-theft security alarm, the remote also arms and disarms that system

Remote start: Conveniently starts the engine from outside the vehicle by using the fob while maintaining vehicle security

Safety cage body structure: Key structural enablers help keep the passenger compartment intact during a crash

Seat-belt pretensioners: During a collision, impact sensors initiate the front seat-belt pretensioners to immediately remove slack, thereby reducing the forward movement of the occupants’ heads and torsos Sentry Key® engine immobilizer: Utilizes an engine key that has an embedded transponder with a preprogrammed security code to discourage vehicle theft. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the controller sends a random number to the transponder and the engine is allowed to start. If an incorrect key is used, the engine will shut off after only a few seconds

Side impact door beams: Add extra protection in the event of a side impact

Sliding door alert system: Warns other drivers by flashing the exterior lamps when passengers are entering or exiting the vehicle

Supplemental side-curtain air bags: Extends protection to all outboard front- and rear-seat passengers, including third-row outboard passengers. Each side air bag has its own impact sensor that autonomously triggers the air bag on the side where the impact occurs

Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPM): Informs occupants when tire pressure is too low. Pressure-sensor modules within the valve stems of all four road wheels send continuous radio-frequency signals to a receiver and the system

Three-point lap shoulder seatbelts: All seating positions, including Swivel ‘n Go™ and third-row middle seat, utilize three-point seatbelts

UConnect® Hands-free Communication System: Uses Bluetooth® technology to provide voice-controlled wireless communication between the occupants’ compatible mobile phone and the vehicle’s onboard receiver. The hands-free option promotes safety, freedom, value and flexibility.

Chrysler LLC Launches uconnect Technologies

2008-11-27T12:22:00.000-08:00

Chrysler LLC Launches uconnect Technologies

Today’s consumers are passionate about staying in touch and want to be connected no matter where they are – home, work, school or vehicle. To focus on the experience and connect customers to the things that matter the most, Chrysler LLC will now bundle innovative consumer technologies under one umbrella name – “uconnect.” The function of the feature is directly in the name – uconnect phone, uconnect tunes, uconnect GPS, uconnect studios and uconnect web.

“We set out to connect customers to the things that matter most to them,” said Deborah Meyer, Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer – Chrysler LLC. “The role for ‘uconnect’ in the 2009 model year places the focus on the customer experience and how the features will make their life easier.”

Following are the definitions of the uconnect features.

uconnect phone

What it does: Uses Bluetooth technology to provide voice-controlled wireless communication between the occupants’ compatible mobile phones and the vehicle’s onboard receiver. New for 2009, the hands-free system automatically downloads up to 1,000 phone book entries from supported phones. The system also recognizes three languages, and is capable of learning. Voice commands can manage onboard phone book entries, select radio stations and access voice mail. Voice memos can be recorded using the microphone that’s integrated within the rearview mirror. Three memos of up to thirty seconds each can be stored in the system. The hands-free option promotes safety, freedom, value and flexibility.

Availability: Chrysler 300, Aspen, PT Cruiser, Sebring and Town & Country; Dodge Avenger, Grand Caravan, Caliber, Challenger, Charger, Dakota, Durango, Journey, Nitro, and Ram; Jeep Grand Cherokee, Commander, Compass, Liberty and Patriot

Part of uconnect phone on select Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles is an iPod interface, which allows an iPod to be plugged into the vehicle’s sound system to play music through the vehicle’s speakers, charge/recharge the iPod when the ignition is on, display artists and music choices on the radio and pause play when uconnect phone receives a phone call. The iPod can be controlled through the radio controls and the remote steering wheel switches (if equipped). The system uses a Universal Customer Interface (UCI) connector located either in the glove box or in the center console, depending on vehicle model.

uconnect tunes

What it does: uconnect tunes includes the following features for music, movie and personalized picture display: A 30-gigabyte hard drive for ripping up to 6,700 songs from CD or USB memory devices in compressed format (either MP3, AAC or WMA file formats)
Photos can be loaded onto the hard drive, allowing the customer to personalize the home screen
Movies can be displayed on the screen for entertaining passengers when the vehicle is in Park (as permitted by the state regulations)

Availability: Chrysler 300, Aspen, Sebring and Town & Country; Dodge Avenger, Caliber, Grand Caravan, Challenger, Charger, Journey, Nitro and Ram 1500; Jeep Commander, Compass, Grand Cherokee, Liberty and Patriot

uconnect GPS

What it does: uconnect GPS combines the features of uconnect phone and uconnect tunes with navigation and real-time traffic. The system includes an integrated voice recognition system and touch screen for easy operation. The voice recognition system also recognizes more than 100,000 words and can input addresses, which allows the customer to enter destinations while the vehicle is in motion.

Availability: Chrysler 300, Aspen, Sebring and Town & Country; Dodge Avenger, Caliber, Grand Caravan, Challenger, Charger, Journey, Nitro and Ram; Jeep Commander, Compass, Grand Cherokee, Liberty and Patriot

uconnect studios

What it does: uconnect studios offer optional SIRIUS Backseat TV, featuring three channels of family TV programming, and optional SIRIUS Satellite Radio, with more than 130 channels of the best music, entertainment and information coast to coast. The systems can be bundled or opted for independently depending upon model availability, and either can be operated from the rear-seat entertainment unit or from the radio head unit.

Chrysler’s uconnect studios offer optional SIRIUS Satellite Radio which provides more than 130 channels, including 69 channels of 100 percent commercial-free music, plus sports, news, talk and entertainment. Station selection with the radio is easy, using the same familiar method as choosing an AM or FM station. Consumers are able to scan channels or have preset buttons for their favorite channels. They can also search both by music category and channel, which is displayed on the radio screen

Availability: SIRIUS Satellite Radio is available on all Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles

Chrysler’s uconnect studios offer optional SIRIUS Backseat TV which features three channels of family TV programming: Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network. SIRIUS Backseat TV operates via an in-vehicle satellite video receiver and two small roof-mounted antennas. Programming is displayed on the vehicle’s second- and/or third-row video screens, and channel name, program title and rating is broadcasted and displayed on the screen. In addition, when the vehicle is in Park, programming can be displayed on the uconnect tunes or uconnect GPS screen for front-seat viewing (as permitted by state regulations). New for 2009 in the Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan are larger nine-inch rear-seat video screens that swivel

Availability: Chrysler 300, Aspen and Town & Country; Dodge Grand Caravan, Charger, Durango, Journey and Ram 1500; Jeep Commander and Grand Cherokee

uconnect web

What it does: The system will provide high-speed data transfer and flexibility, combining WiFi and cellular connectivity for a new level of wireless technology. The system transforms the vehicle into a “hot spot” to deliver the Internet directly to the vehicle, for instant access to Web sites, e-mail, personalized music, online gaming, photo albums, and more.

Availability: Chrysler plans to offer aftermarket in-vehicle “hot-spot” wireless Internet capability through Mopar for Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles.

Mopar Launches Industry-first – uconnect web Bringing Wireless Internet Connectivity to Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge Consumers

uconnect web, Chrysler LLC’s in-vehicle wireless Internet connectivity system, transforms a Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge vehicle into a mobile WiFi “hot spot”
Secure and reliable high-speed Internet connectivity enhances the customer experience by providing entertainment and real-time information access to all vehicle passengers
uconnect web, powered by Autonet Mobile, will be available in August as a dealer-installed Mopar accessory

Mopar announced today that it will launch uconnect web, Chrysler LLC’s in-vehicle wireless Internet connectivity for Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge consumers in the U.S. uconnect web, powered by Autonet Mobile, delivers continuous Internet connectivity to all vehicle passengers for entertainment and real-time information access on the go.

uconnect web will be available in August as a dealer-installed Mopar Accessory. Mopar is Chrysler LLC’s original equipment parts manufacturer and distributor.

The industry-first technology provides high-speed data transfer, combining WiFi and 3G connectivity. uconnect web transforms the vehicle into a mobile “hot spot,” delivering unlimited, reliable and uninterrupted Internet connectivity for all passengers in and around the vehicle. The “hot spot” connection radius is approximately 100 feet—making it convenient to access the Internet at a soccer field or family picnic.

Wherever cellular service is available, uconnect web enables all vehicle passengers to simultaneously connect with WiFi-enabled devices like a laptop, iPhone, Sony Playstation (PSP), PDA and more to:

access the Internet for e-mail, chat and IM
view streaming movies or television shows
download music and download/upload images
play online games

“Mopar’s uconnect web brings a new level of convenience and technology to our Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles,” said Rob Richard, Director – Mopar Part Sales and Service Marketing, Chrysler LLC. “With uconnect web, all passengers in or near the vehicle are continuously connected to the Internet. They can make dinner reservations, check directions or weather, make online purchases, surf Facebook, MySpace, Disney or Webkinz, watch the latest YouTube videos, upload photos to a Flickr account—all at the same time.”

“uconnect web goes beyond today’s DVD and GPS solutions, letting passengers extend their Internet lifestyle to the car,” said Sterling Pratz, CEO of San Francisco-based Autonet Mobile. “The Internet is the future of in-car entertainment. We’re delighted to be working with Chrysler LLC to deliver the first WiFi Internet access that lets families, business and leisure travelers stay connected.”

The U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the router module is $449. Dealer installation is estimated at approximately $35-50. Autonet Mobile offers wireless Internet account service at $29 a month, available in 12-, 24- and 36-month service plans. There is a one-time $35 service activation fee. Customer support assistance for hardware and service is available.

Run over integrated 3G and 2.5G (EVDO, 1xRTT) cellular data networks, the router module with antenna hard-mounts in any vehicle. High-speed Internet access ranges from 400-800 Kbps/sec., with upload speeds averaging 400 Kbps/sec. The WiFi connection is secured with WEP encryption, MAC address restriction or WAN port restriction. Compatible with all operating systems supporting WiFi including Windows, Mac, Linux and Solaris, no special software is required.

2008 Volga Siber Russia Version

2008-11-27T12:21:00.000-08:00

2008 Volga Siber Russia Version

Volga Siber in Russia - Russian Federation Prime Minister Vladimir Putin visited the car plant on the eve of the production start and took the new car on a test drvie. “It takes off fast and they`ve increased the clearance. It will be fine for our roads,” he said. After seeing the main 300-metre conveyor belt, which utilises a modern overhead assembly line, the Prime Minister highlighted the quality control system which has been introduced at all stages of the car`s creation and production.

Chevy Aveo 3-Door Europe Version

2008-11-27T12:19:00.002-08:00

Chevy Aveo 3-Door Europe Version

The highlight of this year`s Chevrolet Europe presentation at the Geneva Motor Show is the new three-door Aveo, which will be shown to the public for the very first time. It underlines Chevrolet`s firm intention to quickly extend its successful compact class family, as the new five-door model is due to go on sale in March. The most significant features of both models are their striking exterior, high-quality interior and new, even more efficient gasoline engines. The dynamically styled three-door Aveo will reach European showrooms in June 2008. Buyers will have a choice of two gasoline engines: a 1.2-litre unit with an output of 84 hp and a 1.4-litre unit with 101 hp.

One year ago, the Geneva Motor Show saw the official birth of “Young? Creative? Chevrolet!”, the pan-European contest aimed at students of applied arts schools. Today, twelve months later, auto show visitors will be able to see one of the fruits of this successful initiative: The hostesses on the Chevrolet stand will wear the outfit that won first prize in Fashion, one of five disciplines covered in the contest. The dresses were designed by 20-year-old Léa Schindler, a student at the ESMOD International Fashion School in Lyon, France.

Feel the Chevy Thunder at Stockyards Station

2008-11-27T12:19:00.001-08:00

Feel the Chevy Thunder at Stockyards Station

The 8th Annual Chevy Thunder is roaring into Stockyards Station in Fort Worth, Friday-Saturday, April 4-5 for a free, two-day race extravaganza. Fans will be treated to interactive displays, opportunities to meet some of NASCAR’s top TEAM Chevy drivers, a monster Silverado, an off-road consumer ride and drive area, live entertainment, and more.

“Chevy Thunder has always been a great event for families to spend time together,” said Eric Snow, Assistant Regional Marketing Manager for Chevrolet Trucks.

“The interactive displays, fantastic entertainment line-up, skill-testing off-road course, TEAM Chevy drivers…We’ve pulled out all the stops and hope everyone will come out and enjoy the festivities at Stockyards Station.”

Entrance to Chevy Thunder is complimentary. Fans will have a variety of activities to choose from, including:

NASCAR Driver Appearances – At 6 p.m. on Friday, April 4, festival-goers can take part in the ultimate race fan experience by meeting Team Chevy drivers up-close-and-personal at a special Chevy Driver Autograph Session and Fan Q&A. “Chevy Live” interviews will be broadcast to the crowd, and attendees will have a chance to win a surprise ride-along with their favorite driver in a 2008 Silverado. Drivers scheduled to appear include: Kevin Harvick, Casey Mears, Aric Almirola, Regan Smith, Jeremy Mayfield and Scott Riggs. Fans are encouraged to get autograph access by obtaining wristbands at Stockyards Station beginning at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, April 4.

Live Entertainment – Popular band .38 Special will storm the stage to entertain fans beginning at 9 p.m. on Friday, April 4. Saturday night’s entertainment line-up will include James Otto, country sensation Blake Shelton and CMA Award-winning group Montgomery Gentry. Since their debut in 1999, Eddie Montgomery and Troy Gentry have been a cornerstone of one of the most important movements in country music since the Outlaws. They were named the CMA’s Duo of the Year in 2000, received the Academy of Country Music Award for Top New Vocal Group or Duo, as well as the 2000 and 2001 Radio & Records Readers’ Poll award for Top Country Duo.

Ride and Drive Courses – The newest addition to Chevy Thunder is the off-road ride and drive area that is sure to rattle the senses while driving over hills, valleys, bumps and loads of Texas dirt. A street course has also been designed where one can get behind the wheel of a Chevy vehicle, like the award-winning Malibu.

Interactive Displays – Food and beverage vendors will line the Stockyards “Back Forty” area so fans can fuel up to take part in a variety of interactive displays, such as:

* “Let’s Jump” will help kids 12 and under burn energy with bounce houses, obstacle courses, hoop shoots and football games
* The AT&T Pit Stop will showcase the #31 show car and the Jeff Burton Tire Change Challenge
* Consumers can visit the RoadLoans exhibit and drop off thank you notes to U.S. troops
* At the Chevy Racing display, NASCAR fans will experience what it feels like to drive the Texas Motor Speedway at over 200 mph
* The XM Ultimate Listening Tour is the place to be for commercial-free music and sports coverage
* Chevrolet’s Alternative Fuels Exhibit – learn how Chevy is at the forefront of producing environment friendly vehicles, from Gas-friendly to Gas-free
* “Let’s Jump” will help kids 12 and under burn energy with bounce houses, obstacle courses, hoop shoots and football games
* To test athletic and soccer skills, Pizza Hut Park offers a kickin’ good time

Chevrolet Aveo Penny Billboard

2008-11-27T12:18:00.002-08:00

Chevrolet Aveo Penny BillboardCredit-crunched Londoners grabbed pocketfuls of pennies today at the launch of a 20-foot billboard advert made entirely from one-pence coins. The unique installation – made using over 20,000 pennies – only lasted 30 minutes as hundreds of opportunistic passers-by seized their moment to pick up a penny or two.

The penny billboard was unveiled in London’s New Oxford Street to advertise the 769,500-pence starting price of the new Chevrolet Aveo.

Chevrolet’s Les Turton comments:
“There have been some great car adverts before, but none that has stopped traffic and actually put money back into the motorist’s pocket so this is certainly a first. We’re glad we’ve topped up lots of people’s wallets, purses and, in some cases, rucksacks, but it would have been nice for the billboard to last a little longer than 30 minutes. At least it showcases the fact that the new Chevrolet Aveo is quite literally great value-for-money.”

The Chevrolet Aveo is available to order now from 769,500-pence on the road or for those who prefer to deal in pounds a great-value £7,695. For more information visit www.chevrolet.co.uk

2010 Chevrolet Camaro Official Photos and Details

2008-11-27T12:18:00.001-08:00

2010 Chevrolet Camaro Official Photos and Details
Chevrolet introduced the production 2010 Camaro today. It is a heritage-inspired sports car for the 21st century, combining great looks and performance; advanced technology and surprising efficiency – including 26-mpg estimated highway fuel economy. Sales begin in the first quarter of 2009.

Built on GM’s new, global rear-wheel-drive architecture, the Camaro is offered in V-6-powered LS and LT models, as well as the V-8-powered SS. All models and powertrain combinations include fuel-saving six-speed transmissions.

“Camaro delivers all of the things that make Chevrolet such a revered, global brand,” said Ed Peper, GM North America vice president, Chevrolet. “It competes with the world’s best sports cars and does so with styling, fuel economy and value our competitors simply can’t match.”

Advanced powertrain technologies, including engines with direct injection and Active Fuel Management, enable a satisfying balance of exhilarating performance and good fuel economy.

“The new Chevrolet Camaro delivers a thoroughly modern, advanced package of performance, comfort and technology,” said Peper. “It’s a sports car for a new generation of enthusiasts that doesn’t forget the heritage that helped make the original a cultural icon . That is no small feat and it took a worldwide commitment to achieve it.”

Indeed, the 2010 Camaro exemplifies GM’s global development process. The design concept originated in the United States; engineering was directed by GM’s global rear-wheel-drive team in Australia; validation was conducted on roads around the world and assembly will take place at GM’s award-winning Oshawa facility in Canada.

Product highlights include:

-Sleek styling with contemporary cues and 10 available exterior colors

-LS and LT models offered with an advanced, 3.6L direct-injected V-6 engine with variable valve timing and a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions

-SS model offered with 6.2L V-8 – including fuel-saving Active Fuel Management on automatic-equipped combinations – and a six-speed manual transmission

-Four-wheel independent suspension system, including a 4.5-link rear suspension

-Variable-rate power steering with the rack mounted forward of the front axle for greater driver feel

-Four-wheel disc brake systems standard on all models, including four-piston Brembo calipers on SS models

-Stabilitrak stability control system StabiliTrak electronic stability control system –
GM’s StabiliTrack electronic stability control system uses sophisticated vehicle sensors tied to the anti-lock braking system to help the driver maintain control during certain maneuvers. The system provides increased vehicle control by continuously monitoring the car’s steering angle, individual wheel speed, brake pressure, lateral acceleration and yaw rate. The information is then used to compare the direction the driver is steering with the vehicle’s actual path, so the system can make the necessary corrections to help the driver keep the vehicle on path. and traction control standard on all models

-Competitive/Sport modes for the stability system offered on SS models, including launch control on SS models equipped with the six-speed manual transmission

-Family of 18-, 19- and 20-inch wheels

-Detailed interior with heritage-inspired design, excellent attention to detail and available ambient lighting via LED light pipe technology

-Robust body structure and exceptional build quality

-Six standard air bags, including head curtain side-impact air bags and front seat-mounted thorax side air bags

-RS appearance package available on LT and SS, including HID headlamps with integrated halo rings, spoiler, specific taillamps and 20-inch wheels

The new Camaro also has technologies that enhance performance, comfort and convenience, including:

-Bluetooth phone connectivity
-Premium Boston Acoustics audio system
-USB connectivity
-Ultrasonic rear parking assist (late introduction)
-Remote vehicle starting system

OnStar OnStar — OnStar is the in-vehicle safety and security system created to help protect you and your family on the road. OnStar’s innovative three-button system offers:
• 24-hour access to expertly trained, caring advisors
• A connection to emergency assistance
• Access to OnStar Hands-Free CallingXM Satellite Radio
Additionally, details such as frameless door windows with automatic indexing glass contribute to the overall feeling of quality, substance and technical prowess.

Design details

With a design that is very faithful to the original concept, the 2010 Camaro is a 21 st century sports car that acknowledges its heritage. A long front dash-to-axle and short rear deck give the Camaro classic proportions, while a sleek windshield profile, wheels pushed to the corners and muscular fender forms are modern elements that reinforce its advanced engineering – and give the car a decidedly aggressive stance.

Elements such as a forward-V shape at the front of the car and “gills” in the rear quarter panels are distinctly Camaro cues, as are the broad rear fender “shoulders.” Those elements make the new Camaro instantly recognizable, but their execution is smoothly integrated into the contemporary exterior form. A family of large, 18-, 19- and 20-inch wheels also contributes to the Camaro’s modern appearance.

“The new Camaro is just that – new,” said Ed Welburn, vice president of GM Global Design. “We acknowledge the nameplate’s strong heritage in the design, but recognize that keeping this modern sports car relevant meant more than simply honoring a classic car. The line forms, stance and overall execution are consistent with other new Chevrolets.”

A well-executed balance of heritage, modern design and attention to detail also characterizes the Camaro’s interior. A pair of deeply recessed instrument binnacles that feature round gauges in square housings is a nod to classic Camaros, while an available ambient light package offers advanced LED light pipe technology to give the cabin a distinctive and inviting glow. Cloth upholstery is standard; heated leather-appointed seats are available.

Details such as large, chrome-trimmed controls, low-gloss surfaces and premium fabric or acrylic appliqués convey a richness that is unprecedented in previous Camaro models – and challenge its contemporary competitors. More great detail is evidenced in the available center-console gauge cluster, which takes its cue from a similar option on 1969 Camaros. It displays oil temperature, oil pressure, state-of-battery and transmission fluid temperature, all highlighted with modern LED backlighting.

Powertrains

An advanced, efficient 3.6L direct-injected V-6 with variable valve timing is standard on LS and LT models. Direct injection technology helps the engine deliver more power through increased efficiency, while maintaining fuel economy and lowering emissions. That means less fuel is consumed and lower emissions generated – including a 25-percent drop in cold-start hydrocarbon emissions.

The Camaro’s 3.6L engine also employs variable valve timing to optimize performance and fuel economy across the rpm range. It is rated at an estimated 300 horsepower (224 kW) and 273 lb.-ft. of torque (370 Nm). A six-speed manual transmission is standard with the 3.6L engine; a Hydra-Matic 6L50 electronically controlled six-speed automatic, with TAPshift control, is available.

The high-performance Camaro SS is equipped with a powerful 6.2L V-8, with a choice of a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. Standard, manual transmission-equipped models receive the LS3 engine, estimated at 422 horsepower (315 kW) and 408 lb.-ft. of torque (553 Nm). The LS3 debuted on the 2008 Corvette and uses high-flow cylinder heads based on the Corvette Z06’s LS7 engine to enable great low-end torque and high-rpm power. It is paired with a TR6060 six-speed transmission.

A new, L99 V-8 engine is used on automatic transmission-equipped SS models. It is based on the LS3 and carries all of its high-performance design features, but also includes GM’s fuel-saving Active Fuel Management feature. It enables the engine to run on only four cylinders during light-load driving conditions, such as highway cruising, to improve fuel economy. The V-8 is estimated at 400 horsepower (299 kW) and 395 lb.-ft. of torque (535 Nm); and it is matched with a Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed transmission. This combination delivers an estimated 23 mpg on the highway.

Body structure and chassis

The 2010 Camaro is built on GM’s global rear-wheel-drive architecture, with a strong body structure that enhances safety, quietness and handling. World-class build quality and attention to detail are enabled by features including one-piece body side stampings and very precise tolerances between body panels.

Front and rear independent suspensions are mounted to the rigid chassis, including a multi-link strut arrangement in the front with a direct-acting stabilizer bar and a double ball-joint configuration; and a unique, 4.5-link rear suspension that is double-isolated from the chassis for smoother, quieter driving experience.

Camaro offers two suspensions. LS and LT models receive an FE2 (sport) suspension, while the SS receives the FE3 (performance) suspension, including a lower ride height. Each is tuned to match the performance capabilities of their respective powertrains, as are their wheel-and-tire combinations.

A variable-rate rack-and-pinion power steering system mounts the rack forward of the front axle, for more direct action, an enhanced feeling of driver feedback and better weight balance.

Brakes and chassis control

Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS are standard on all models. LS and LT models receive single-piston calipers all around, with mass-reducing aluminum rear calipers. SS models have larger rotors that are acted upon by four-piston, aluminum Brembo calipers at all four corners. They are designed to stand up to the severe use encountered on road-race tracks, delivering excellent feedback and pedal feel, as well as fade-resistant performance during racing.

GM’s StabilTrak electronic stability control system is standard and incorporates traction control. The system on SS models includes Competitive/Sport mode that is adjustable for performance driving, such as on a racetrack; it also includes a Launch Control feature on SS models with the manual transmission. It enables quicker, more consistent takeoffs during performance driving.

Safety

Designed to protect occupants before, during and after a crash, the Camaro offers a comprehensive system of safety features – starting with a robust body structure and integral safety cage around the passenger compartment. High-strength steel and ultra high-strength steel are used in key areas throughout the structure.

Safety technologies integrated in the Camaro include:

Driver and front-passenger dual-stage air bags Dual-stage Air Bags –
Dual-stage air bags are designed to inflate at high speed in serious crashes, but deploy with less force in minor-to-moderate crashes. The air bag system’s sensors determined the severity of the crash, signaling the appropriate deployment speed.Driver and front-passenger seat-mounted thorax side-impact air bags Head curtain side-impact air bags for front and rear seat occupants
Front seat safety belt load limiters and pre-tensioners
The front passenger protection system

Front Passenger Detection System — To avert potential injury risk from high-pressure airbag inflation, the front passenger detection system will suppress air bag deployment if a child or person of small stature is sensed sitting on the passenger seat. It also senses the presence of a child restraint on the seat, and will suppress airbag deployment accordingly.
The detection system uses a mat sensor embedded in the passenger seat that establishes the occupant’s weight and weight distribution. If this is below a certain level, the sensor alerts the SDM central control unit and the front passenger airbag will not deploy.
senses children and small-stature adults and suppresses air bag deployment when appropriate.

Standard OnStar service assists after a crash. With OnStar’s Advanced Crash Response System, the vehicle automatically sends a signal to OnStar for assistance, even if the air bags don’t deploy.

Chevrolet European Press Release:

On the eve of the Camaro Convertible Concept’s breathtaking debut at the British International Motor Show, Chevrolet has pulled off the wraps of the production version of the car that will revive one of the most iconic names in motoring history.

Unveiled at a special ceremony in Detroit, the coupe version of the heritage-inspired performance model will be built at GM’s Oshawa plant in Canada, and will make its first appearance in US Chevrolet showrooms in the first quarter of 2009, with European sales starting a year later.

With a design that is faithful to the acclaimed concept, the new Camaro is a 21st century sports car that acknowledges its heritage. A long bonnet and short rear deck give the car classic proportions, while the muscular wheelarches and sleek windscreen profile give it a decidedly aggressive stance.

The theme continues inside, with a combination of modern LED lighting and retro-styled recessed instrument binnacles, featuring round gauges in square housings.

Yet despite the obvious styling cues that hark back to the original 1967 muscle car, the new Camaro is bristling with technical innovation.

“The new Camaro is just that – new,” said Ed Wellburn, vice president of GM Global Design. “We acknowledge the nameplate’s strong heritage in the form of the design, but recognise that keeping this modern sports car relevant meant more than simply honouring a classic car. The line forms, stance and overall execution are consistent with other new Chevrolets.”

Under the skin, the Camaro uses an advanced four-wheel independent suspension system with a multilink rear end, along with a StabiliTrak stability control system and four-piston Brembo brake callipers, combining to give the Camaro a sophisticated dynamic package.

Other features of the new model will include an ultrasonic park assist, Bluetooth connectivity, a premium audio system, six airbags and – for Europe – 20-inch alloy wheels.

In the USA, two alloy-blocked engines will be offered – a 3.6-litre V6 and a 6.2-litre V8, developing 300bhp and 420bhp respectively. Both are to be offered with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions
.

Details of European and UK-specific model options will be unveiled much closer to the car’s on-sale date in 2010.

Paintings created with remote control cars

2008-11-27T12:17:00.001-08:00

Paintings created with remote control cars

Visitors to the British International Motor Show will be able to check out unique renderings of a pair of very special cars on the Chevrolet stand.

The paintings, of the Camaro Convertible and Beat concept cars – both of which are the stars of the Chevrolet stand, are the work of 25-year old artist Ian Cook from Solihull, West Midlands. But instead of creating the images with a simple paintbrush, Ian used a somewhat unique method of artistry.

The images were created using remote control cars driven through acrylic paints, with further detail added by using old car tyres. As well as cars, Ian has also painted some famous figures from the world of motoring using the same method, including Lord Montagu of Beaulieu and F1 ace Lewis Hamilton.

“I wanted to be an artist from a young age and decided that to be successful I needed something completely unique,” said Ian. “I’ve always been mad about anything with wheels and I figured that using cars to paint cars would capture peoples’ imaginations, so I experimented at home by driving some remote control models through paint.”

Ian, who calls his art Popbang Colour, used a host of replica GM cars to create the Camaro, including three models of the Camaro Concept itself, live on the show’s opening day. He also created an image of the Beat minicar concept, both of which will be on display in the Chevrolet Drivers’ Lounge for the duration of the show.

But those who want to see Ian create a masterpiece in person should pop along to the Motor Show, at London’s Excel exhibition centre, Docklands, on the final day of the event – Sunday August 3 – from 10.00am.

There, Ian will be using his unique painting method to create an image of British racing star Rob Huff’s Chevrolet Lacetti World Touring Car, a week after the series visits the UK for its annual visit to Brands Hatch.

“I can’t wait to get started on the racing car,” said Ian. “With the intricate liveries and body kits, competition cars require an extra level of detail, and that’s where you need skill with the remote control cars.”

One thing’s for certain – Ian’s next creation is sure to go with a bang. Or maybe even a pop…

Caterham Announces Powerhouse V8 engine delivers 1,000 plus bhp-per-tonne

2008-11-27T12:16:00.001-08:00

Caterham Announces Powerhouse V8 engine delivers 1,000 plus bhp-per-tonne

For those wanting an expression of British sportscar exclusivity, Caterham Cars has joined forces with RS Performance to offer the ultimate in bespoke Seven coachbuilding. Caterham has long been the epitome of personalised motoring with almost every version of the 12,000 Sevens on the road differing from one another. The joint venture takes that famous philosophy to an altogether new level.

RS Performance is an exclusive, niche engineering house. Born out of the passion and pedigree of its founder, Russell Savory, it will offer an ‘everything is possible’ service to Caterham customers wanting cars truly ‘built to order’.

Using the motorsport-honed Caterham chassis and benchmark technology as a cosmetic and engineering base, RS Performance, will “turn imagination into reality,” says Savory.

The heartbeat of every RS-monikered Seven will be the unique RST-V8 engine. With more than 16 years of development behind it by Russell Savory, the 40-valve, 2.4 litre engine reliably delivers an incredible 400bhp in normally aspirated mode, or over 500bhp as a supercharged varient, whilst weighing only 90kg in full running gear.

The unbridled lightness of the RST-V8 matched to the already featherweight Seven chassis delivers a power-to-weight ratio of over 1000bhp per tonne – more than double of a Bugatti Veyron. This unique partnership will be open to customers looking for the ultimate in exclusivity, and carry a price tag to reflect the tailoring, detail and hand-built craftsmanship that will go into every RS-badged Caterham.

Validation of the engineering house’s abilities comes in the form of the supercharged ‘Levante’. This is the first Seven to rollout of RS Performance’s Hertfordshire doors and which only seven more of this type will be available.

With a 12 week waiting time and costing over £115,000, this supercharged engineering masterpiece boasts a modern interpretation of the Seven’s classic looks with a sophisticated electronics package with traction and launch control to help get the phenomenal power to the floor. Weight reduction runs throughout the car, from the carbon fibre interior finished with Kevlar seats down to the hosing used on the cooling systems
The RS Performance badge will sit alongside the established, and soon to be expanded, Ford powered Caterham Seven range.

“Caterham and Russell Savory have a long history, and this seemed a natural progression of that relationship and shared engineering philosophy,” explained Ansar Ali, Caterham Cars managing director.

RS Performance RST-V8 Engine Technical Specification

Configuration
90° V8

Capacity
2.4 litre

Valves
40

Construction
Aluminium main frame with dry sump

Max Power
380 bhp @10,000rpm / 500+bhp @ 10,000rpm (supercharged)

Max Torque
190 lbsft @ 8500rpm / 300 lbsft@ 8500rpm (supercharged)

Gearbox
6-speed

Overall length
45.6mm

Overall width
45.6mm

Height
48mm

Weight
90kg

Service intervals
8000 miles (minor) / 30,000 miles (major service & belt change)

RS Performance ‘Levante’ Technical Specification

Price
£115,000 (dependent on specification)

Chassis
Caterham SV

Engine
2.4-litre, 40-valve RST-V8 supercharged

Max Power
500+bhp @ 10,000rpm

Max Torque
300 lbsft @ 8500rpm

Supercharge boost
0.8 psi

Gearbox
6-speed sequential, paddle shift option

Transmission
LSD

0-60mph (claimed)
Less than 3 seconds

Top Speed
150mph (limited)

Wheelbase
2305mm

Overall length
3530mm

Overall width
1685mm

Height
1140mm

Weight
From 520kgs

Suspension
de Dion rear, Nitron 3-way adjustable shocks all corners

Wheels
Image Billet; front 8 x 15, rear 10 x 15

Tyres
Avon CR500; front 195/45-15, rear 245/40-15

Brakes
Hi Spec; front 280mm vented, rear 260mm.

Exhaust system
BTB 2 x 4-2-1 rear exit

Dashboard
Farringdon and SPA design

Driver aids
Traction Control, Launch Control

Additional
Two day driver training course provided on delivery of vehicle

Caterham Insurance Service

2008-11-27T12:15:00.001-08:00

Caterham Insurance Service

Caterham Cars has launched “Caterham Insurance” giving owners the most competitive and bespoke cover possible for a Seven.

By offering customers truly tailored insurance, the British manufacturer has fulfilled its desire to provide the complete ownership experience; adding to new and used car sales, servicing, customising, a successful tiered race program and the massively popular Caterham Driving Experience (CDX) days.

Only Sevens qualify for Caterham Insurance. As a result, the policy has been designed to suite all the requirements that are inherent to the lifestyle of the owner, including track day cover* and modifications.

Caterham Sales & Marketing Director, Andy Noble, explains the move: ‘For the thrill of driving and the joy of ownership, the Seven simply can’t be compared to any other vehicle; this is why Caterham believe it can’t be insured the same way. With our own insurance, customers are able to come to one of our showrooms and, whether it’s a new or used car they’re interested in, we can sort a complete deal under one roof.’

As an introductory offer, Caterham Insurance is offering four years no claims bonus to new customers.

Agreed values can be provided for cars over 10 years old and claims can be made 365 days of the year and all repair work is carried out at one of Caterham’s three locations. All policies include free breakdown cover and there’s no excess to pay on windscreen repair or replacement if the work is undertaken by Caterham.

Caparo T1 Police Car

2008-11-27T12:13:00.002-08:00

MET POLICE - RAPID RESPONSE VEHICLE
Getaway drivers and outside lane lovers beware! The Met Police has a teamed up with Brit supercar manufacturer, Caparo, to conceive a brand new Rapid Response Vehicle (RRV) for the future – on show at MPH ’07 this weekend.

Capable of accelerating from a Police lay-by to 100mph in just 5 seconds and onto a top speed of 200mph, the Caparo T1 RRV would be deployed to hunt down car criminals within the M25.

Like everything else in the Met Police’s armoury, this bespoke RRV is intended as a deterrent. Just check your mirrors next time you fancy breaking the speed limit!
Caparo T1

2009 Cadillac XLR V With 450HP 4.4 V8 Engine

2008-11-27T12:13:00.001-08:00

2009 Cadillac XLR V With 450HP 4.4 V8 Engine

Ever since its arrival in the exclusive world of luxury roadsters in 2004, the Cadillac XLR has been a valued member of this elite club. This is certainly true of the version available in Europe, propelled by the powerful 4.4-litre Supercharged Northstar V8 engine (330 kW / 450 hp) from the famed Cadillac V-series. For model year 2009, the XLR-V has been technologically refined, and the design has been fine-tuned in a number of important respects.

The most obvious refinements can be seen at the front and rear of the car, where a clear family likeness to the prize-winning CTS sports sedan can now be discerned. At the front, new fog lamps are an eye-catching feature, as is the two-piece grille. The redesigned air intakes along the car’s flanks also bring out the family links. The result is an appearance that is more powerful, that matches the capabilities of this luxury, high-performance roadster perfectly.

The interior has been upgraded with new luxury upholstery materials and new technology. Alcantara® is used for the upholstery, with a choice between Ebony and Cashmere as the color. Another new feature is the hand-cut, hand-sewn leather that is used to clad the instrument panel, in line with the new Cadillac approach in which modern, elegant craftsmanship is central.

New trim rings around the graphic displays in the instrument cluster, new wood types for the finishing (Black Olive Ash Burl) and new metal accents (Bermuda) complete the interior upgrade.

As a technology flagship, the XLR-V again boasts the most advanced safety- and comfort-enhancing technologies in its 2009 model year. These naturally include the renowned Cadillac Magnetic Ride Control system, Keyless Access with push button start, DVD navigation and entertainment system, seats that can be heated or cooled, head-up display and a heated steering wheel.

The new Cadillac XLR-V will be available from dealers from this autumn. The price will be announced in due course.

2009 Cadillac CTS Pricing Announced UK

2008-11-27T12:12:00.003-08:00

2009 Cadillac CTS Pricing Announced UK

The all-new 2009 right-hand drive Cadillac CTS sport saloon, which makes its public debut at the British International Motorshow, goes on sale at Cadillac retailers from September 1 priced at £26,995 for the 211PS 2.8-litre V6 VVT model and £32,995 for the 311PS 3.6-litre VVT direct injection V6.

Both models will be mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with a floor selector, the larger engine coming with paddle shift controls. The model range will be joined by an advanced 2.9-litre V6 diesel engine in 2009.

“The launch of the right-hand drive CTS marks a major step forward for the Cadillac brand in the UK,” said Jonathan Nash, director in charge, Cadillac UK. “We believe the focus on dramatic design, craftsmanship and the class leading technologies will ensure the CTS is a desirable, exclusive alternative in today’s premium car market.”

Both rear-wheel drive sport saloon models come with traction control and a limited slip differential, and feature a single premium ‘Sport Luxury’ trim level with a class-leading amount of standard equipment.

The high level of specification means that the options list will consist of only three items: metallic or premium metallic exterior paint finish, electric sunroof and ‘Sapele Pommele’ wood interior trim finish.

STANDARD EQUIPMENT HIGHLIGHTS

Exterior

The new CTS has an athletic form that reflects its combination of luxury and performance. The evolved styling theme has produced a faster, coupe-like profile, while the more sculpted bumpers, flared wheel arches and 18-inch alloy wheels emphasise the car’s wider track and enhanced chassis dynamics.

Inspired by Cadillac’s landmark Sixteen concept car, the CTS’s frontal appearance is immediately recognisable. The large, chrome grille with the centre-positioned wreath and crest logo is perfectly balanced with vertically stacked headlamps housing bi-xenon high-intensity headlights with Adaptive Forward Lighting.

The quality of the exterior finish is further enhanced by cutting edge manufacturing techniques. An innovative laser-brazing technique affixes the roof panel more crisply, and means the exterior roof surface is uninterrupted, free of the obvious joints that are common on other vehicles.

Innovations continue through to the front and rear windscreens which come with exposed edge glass, free from visible rubber seals and joints. This technique is coupled with Automatic “RainSense” windscreen wipers with heated windscreen wash system. Rear park assist also comes as standard.

Interior

The luxurious cabin features an exquisite hand-cut and sewn leather-wrapped dashboard / door trim which perfectly complements the full leather seating. The heated front seats offer eight-way power adjustment controls with the driving position also benefiting from a two position memory function.

Interior comfort is further assured with dual-zone automatic climate control, cruise control and electric push-button hand brake, whilst a touch of sophistication is added with the introduction of the new recessed ambient interior lighting.

Music / Entertainment

The CTS’s class-leading infotainment system includes a fully retractable multi-function eight-inch touch-screen VGA display. This is combined with a 300 watt 10-speaker Bose® 5.1 Cabin Surround® sound system which not only offers full iPod integration (developed in conjunction with Apple engineers) but also includes a 40-gigabyte hard drive and CD player with MP3 file compatibility. A DVD player and TV tuner provide further viewing pleasure for occupants when the vehicle is parked.

Navigation

The hard disk drive (HDD) navigation system uses the latest advances from the industry, creating a more informative package resulting in 30 per cent quicker route calculations.

From its sleek and dramatic exterior to its handcrafted and tailored interior, the 2009 CTS extends Cadillac’s legendary design lineage and creates a dynamic new presence in the world of luxury saloons.

2008 Becker/STRUT Cadillac ESV Limo

2008-11-27T12:12:00.001-08:00

2008 Becker/STRUT Cadillac ESV Limo

Becker Automotive Design, Inc., known globally for their unique custom limousine and coach conversion vehicles, has partnered with bespoke custom automotive designer STRUT to create a special-edition Cadillac Escalade ESV for Becker`s exclusive global clientele.

The new Becker/STRUT Cadillac Escalade ESV combines an unmatched blend of privacy and European luxury interior craftsmanship with cutting-edge mobile office capabilities in a floor-to-ceiling custom-leather interior designed for comfort, convenience, and ergonomic utility. Integrated into the vehicle is an impressive Apple iPod® ready audio-video system featuring satellite HDTV, DVD, and digital surround sound that yields picture and sound quality rivaling those of any high-end home audio or theater system. Becker has chosen only the finest high-end components from Alpine, JL Audio, LG, Dynaudio, and other manufacturers, all controlled by a custom Crestron touchscreen using proprietary Becker Automotive Design software.

2008 Buick Lucerne Super Pricing Announced

2008-11-27T12:11:00.003-08:00

2008 Buick Lucerne Super Pricing Announced

Buick, the premium international brand of General Motors, today announced the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for its all-new 2008 Lucerne Super entry-luxury sedan. Buick’s most premium and powerful full-size sedan carries an MSRP of $39,395 including a $765 destination freight charge. It will be available for sale in dealer showrooms beginning in April.

The Lucerne Super features a long list of standard content exclusive to the Super badge, compelling safety features, and performance and powertrain enhancements. Pricing targets comparably equipped luxury import competitors.

Standard luxury content
Lucerne Super has a full range of standard equipment and technologies befitting Buick’s premium image. Among them include a new 4.6L 292-horsepower Northstar V-8 engine; Magnetic Ride Control technology; premium steering gear; heated and cooled front seats; heated windshield washer fluid; QuietTuning, Buick’s exclusive process to reduce, block and absorb interior cabin noise; factory-installed remote start; Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist; rain-sensing windshield wiper system; OnStar; XM Satellite Radio; and six air bags, including an industry-first dual-depth front passenger air bag.

Lucerne Super’s exterior features new and exclusive features such as a chrome waterfall grille, front and rear fascias, rocker panels and dual chrome exhaust tips. Its luxury-like interior gets a leather-wrapped instrument panel with French-seam stitching; suede trim on the doors and seats; heated real walnut wood steering wheel and shifter; a Nova-silver center stack finish; a nine-speaker, 280-watt Harman Kardon audio system; six-disc, in-dash CD changer with MP3 capability; and floor mats embroidered with the Buick name and tri-shield emblem.

Available features include 18-inch chrome wheels, touch screen DVD-based map navigation, power sunroof and an Ultra Confidence package with Side Blind Zone and Lane Departure Warning safety-enhancing technologies.

A driver’s car

The Lucerne Super is a driver’s car, thanks in part to its increased horsepower, enhanced chassis tuning and steering precision.

The Northstar V-8 engine produces 292 horsepower and 288 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine’s added power improves launch-acceleration and vehicle-passing capabilities. New premium steering components give the Lucerne Super improved steering precision and responsiveness.

Lucerne Super’s chassis was further tuned for a more agile ride and performance. A key enabler of the chassis is Lucerne Super’s Magnetic Ride Control technology. It has been recalibrated to give even more driver control and performance while further reducing body roll and head toss in cornering and lane changes. The system uses magnetically charged particles suspended in a synthetic fluid to continuously adjust the fluid’s viscosity to varying road surfaces and driving characteristics. It provides a quicker response than conventional valve-damping systems, while providing exceptional vehicle control and increased tire contact with the road surface.

In addition to the Super trim, Lucerne is also available in CX (MSRP of $27,520) and CXL (MSRP of $30,165) models. All Lucernes are built at GM’s Detroit-Hamtramck manufacturing facility and come with the industry’s best coverage, including a five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper protection.

2008 Buick Invicta Teaser Released

2008-11-27T12:11:00.001-08:00

2008 Buick Invicta Teaser Released

Buick took another step to bolster its global design presence with a sneak peek at a luxurious show car it plans to reveal in China at the Beijing Motor Show on April 19. Named Invicta, Buick’s show car reflects the way General Motors utilizes design and engineering talent around the world to execute a premium vehicle with international appeal.

The Invicta, which is Latin for “invincible,” evolves Buick’s global design direction from the Riviera concept introduced last year in Shanghai. The Invicta show car was co-developed by GM design centers in North America and China to meet customers’ expectations equally in the world’s two largest automotive markets.

“Buick’s global appeal created an opportunity for GM Design Centers to elevate our collaboration to new levels. Using our virtual reality centers in Warren, Mich. and Shanghai, designers fused the best ideas from both cultures during the development of the Invicta, ” said Edward T. Welburn, vice president, General Motors Global Design. “The result will set a new design standard for Buick, and it couldn’t have been achieved by one studio working in isolation. The Invicta represents another significant design milestone in Buick’s history.”

Invicta draws inspiration from the Riviera concept with a modern and graceful exterior design matched by a sumptuous interior. Invicta pays homage to Buicks of the 1940s through the 1970s with its nostalgic sweepspear design cue, a curved line running the length of the car. The exterior also features Buick’s signature vertical chrome waterfall grille and a new look to its portholes. The Invicta interior will share Riviera’s ambient lighting feature and lavish design.

Buick returns the Invicta name after a 45-year hiatus. Buick originally introduced the Invicta in North America as a production vehicle from 1959 to 1963. It is the first time the nameplate has appeared on a Buick in China.