Official 2007 Geneva Auto Show Thread [Archive]

mikeyb

02-05-2007, 11:18 AM

Honda to Unveil Concept H at Geneva

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Honda will be presenting the world debut of an exciting new concept car at the forthcoming 2007 Geneva motor show, as well as showing the fully driveable FCX Concept fuel cell car in Europe for the first time. A press conference will be held on the Honda stand in Hall 4 on Press Day, 6 March, between 12:00 noon and 12:15 pm.

Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept

Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept represents Honda's proposal for a future hybrid model. The Concept demonstrates a unique fusion of advanced hybrid technology and fun-to-drive sports car characteristics. The Small Hybrid Sports Concept, which has been designed by Honda R&D Europe based in Offenbach, Germany explores the idea that a car can have a low environmental impact yet still deliver all the driving enjoyment expected of a compact sports car.

Fully driveable Honda FCX Concept demonstrates Honda's advanced fuel cell technology

The fully functional Honda FCX Concept will be on display for the first time in Europe. The concept model features a newly developed compact, high-efficient Honda FC Stack as well as a long-floor, low-riding, short-nose body. It offers a comfortably large cabin and futuristic styling along with significant improvements in power output and environmental performance. The FCX Concept offers practical driving performance with a range of 570 km (Honda calculations when driven in LA4 mode) and a top speed limited to 160 km/h. Limited marketing of a totally new fuel cell vehicle based on the FCX Concept model is to begin in Japan and the US in 2008.

Next-generation clean diesel engine

Further technical innovation will be represented in Geneva by the company's next-generation diesel engine that uses world-first technology to reduce emissions to the same level of a petrol engine. A revolutionary catalytic converter reduces NOx (oxides of nitrogen) emissions to a level that enables the engine to meet the stringent US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Tier II/Bin 5 requirements.

The catalytic converter features an innovative system that uses the reductive reaction of ammonia to 'detoxify' oxides of nitrogen (NOx) by converting them into harmless nitrogen (N2). However, unlike Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems which use urea injection, Honda's innovative technology uses ammonia generated within the catalytic converter.
Honda plans to introduce its next-generation diesel engine within three years.

Honda's Motorsports challengers for 2007

On public display for the first time will be the Honda Racing F1 Team's brand new race car, the RA107.
Honda's commitment to motorsport will also be represented at the show by the Civic Type R race car based on the just-launched road car. Developed in close cooperation with Italy's JAS Motorsport, the Civic Type R is aiming for even greater success than its forebear, which has proved popular in European motor sport circles since its introduction in 2002.
The car is being developed to Group N and Group A, as well as the new Group R specifications to be introduced in 2008.

Honda's production models and accessories

The stand will also feature examples of the brand-new CR-V and Civic Type R models, as well as the rest of the Honda range. The company's extensive range of accessories will be showcased on the upper level of the stand, including a CR-V Aero Performance Pack.

mikeyb

02-05-2007, 11:23 AM

Mitsubishi to Unveil Outlander V6 Concept & Prototype X

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Previewing next generation Lancer Evolution

A few weeks after the successful world premiere of the Lancer sports sedan at the Detroit Motor Show, the 2007 Geneva will be another occasion for celebration at Mitsubishi Motors.

From March 6th to March 18th in Geneva, the automotive arm of the Mitsubishi group of companies will demonstrate how vision took it to car production exactly 90 years ago with Model-A in 1917, how its talent for engineering continues today bringing to the market innovative solutions like those proposed by the all-new Outlander and ultimately, how such a commitment will continue to fuel the passion with red-hot Prototype-X.
Yesterday with Model-A

The Mitsubishi Motors stand at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show will be graced by a very red machine – an exact replica of the 1917 Model-A - but of a very different nature than the expected Lancer Evolution… Different, but sharing the same culture over the last 90 years.

The history of Mitsubishi Motors as an automobile manufacturer began long before the Motor Vehicle Division of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. was incorporated as “Mitsubishi Motors Corporation” in 1970 and even longer before its return to the Mitsubishi family in 2004.

Mitsubishi’s first vehicle was Model-A, Japan’s first attempt at series production of passenger cars which rolled off the line in August 1917. After a 4-year run, production of Model-A’s was stopped in 1921 when aircraft manufacturing took precedence over cars at Mitsubishi. No matter what, this vehicle was then a pioneer and Mitsubishi has been an innovator ever since.

In these early years, the cars were manufactured by the ship and aircraft building arm of Mitsubishi. Therein lies the origin of Mitsubishi Motors’ dedication to creative engineering and resultant reputation for precision, reliability, quality and all-round performance of its vehicles, on-road, off-road, touring or racing.

Today with Outlander

Backed by these 90 years of in-house engineering expertise but also 70 years of 4x4 technology and 45 years of motor sports success, the new Outlander is a very legitimate SUV, challenging an increasingly crowded and predictable segment with design, technology and features to suit.
Leaving the role of authentic off-roader to the next generation Pajero, Outlander is a no-compromise solution for a different type of recreational vehicle. Using the in-built adaptability of MMC’s all-new global platform (see below), it brings passenger car-like levels of active safety and driving pleasure, thanks to its All Wheel Control drive-train, 4-wheel independent suspension, high performance brakes and low center of gravity. The latter is helped by an aluminium roof panel, using a technology tested with the Lancer Evolution IX.

Clearly inspired by the Pajero Evo 2+2 concept presented, Outlander’s front design blends into the muscular fenders with flared wheel arches and sharp lines, leaving no doubt about its character and dynamic abilities.
More so, in its Outlander V6-Concept livery (matt metallic grey with white roof and white accents) similar to that of Pajero Evo 2+2, Mitsubishi Motors’ “desert GT” presented exactly 5 years ago at the 2002 Geneva Motor Show.

Appropriately dressed, this show car version of a potential more potent Outlander will showcase Mitsubishi Motors’ all-new 3.0 l V6 MIVEC engine. Market conditions and customers’ feedback permitting, it could be launched at a later stage in Europe (4).

This variant could then top a full range of Outlanders including:

2.0 Diesel pump-jet - 140 ps and 310 Nm - launched during the first quarter of 2007 (1).
2.2 Diesel common rail* – 156 ps and 380 Nm - to be launched end of 2007 (2).
2.4 l Petrol* - 170 ps and 226 Nm - to be launched during the fourth quarter of 2007 (3).
3.0 l Petrol* - 220 ps and 276 Nm, under study (4).

VAG-sourced
PSA Peugeot Citroën-sourced
Mitsubishi Motors’ own
Mitsubishi Motors’ own. Already available in the US, as well as in Euro-3 form in Russia and in the Ukraine.
* All data subject to final homologation.

Tomorrow with Prototype-X

With cars like Outlander, the next generation Pajero or the 2007 Dakar-winning Pajero Evo, the flame is very much alive at MMC’s Okazaki R&D facilities in Japan as well as around the world for all Mitsubishi designers and engineers.

Ninety years after Model-A, it powers the Company through all its endeavors, such as “Project Global”, MMC’s new global platform and its most ambitious automotive project ever.

Previewed in October 2005 when the new Outlander was launched in Japan, this 3-million car global platform will be fully deployed from 2007 onwards through the launch of a new family of C-segment sedans (Lancer sports sedan and its derivatives) which share their stunning design language with the much-acclaimed 2005 Concept-X and Concept-Sportback concept cars.

With this platform, Mitsubishi Motors confirms its strategic decision to focus its product development over a limited number of intelligent platforms (from 14 to 6), i.e.: with the built-in flexibility needed to accommodate regional needs and regulations as well as market trends and new customer demands.

“Project Global” will also be the next best tool to fuel the passion and in Geneva like in Detroit, Mitsubishi Motors will hint at the next generation of its iconic “super-car”, the much anticipated and all-new Lancer Evolution through the Prototype-X show car.

Prototype-X will also demonstrate to the European public the depth and breadth of the forthcoming Lancer sports sedan family, ranging from entry model (1.5 l in Europe) right up to the all-new Lancer Evolution, the range topping “super-car”.

As Prototype-X indicates, Lancer Evolution will soon make perhaps the largest leap in overall capability seen between two generations of this model. The next Lancer Evolution will offer major gains in handling dynamics and technology while maintaining the kind of thrilling turbo engine performance that has made the model a legend around the world. This will start with a turbocharged version of the all-new aluminum 4B11 2.0-liter DOHC MIVEC powerplant used in the 2008 Lancer sports sedan, yielding the highest power rating ever in a Lancer Evolution model. Stay tuned…

mikeyb

02-05-2007, 11:55 AM

Opel Corsa OPC Revealed

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192 hp and top speed of 225 km/h
Pure Corsa driving fun
Corsa OPC world premiere in Geneva
Opel has shifted into top gear with the new Corsa. Following the successful market launch of the bestseller’s fourth generation, Opel now sends the sporty top version on to the road. The OPC model is the quintessential expression of the Corsa’s dynamic character, with top-level agility and vehicle control promising pure driving fun. Its 1.6-liter turbo engine with 141 kW/192 hp accelerates the compact three-door from zero to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds and enables a top speed of 225 km/h. The maximum torque of 230 Nm, which can be temporarily increased to over 260 Nm via an 'overboost' function, is delivered to the front wheels by the standard six-speed transmission. This level of performance provides the newest member of the sporty OPC family with superb propulsion power in all driving situations. For instance, accelerating from 80 to 120 km/h takes just 6.7 seconds in fifth gear. The Corsa OPC requires 7.9 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers, a moderate figure in this performance class. It makes its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in early March, shortly before its market launch.

The top-of-the-line Corsa’s look also reflects pure sportiness. The roof spoiler, as well as the powerful front and rear aprons with distinctive gill-like air intakes and outlets make the OPC a real eye-catcher. Elements such as the darkly contrasting diffuser with integrated, centrally located triangular tailpipe and specially designed exterior mirrors are just a few examples of how much attention to detail was put into further developing the Corsa’s bold, sporty character.

The Corsa OPC’s chassis has a unique, even sportier character thanks to extensive modifications. Through intensive tuning drives on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, engineers were able to achieve a sophisticated balance of agile handling and pronounced vehicle control. Key modifications include a stronger rear axle profile and adjusted torsion beam rear axle weld-in angle, new spring/dampener tuning, lowering of the chassis by 10 mm and a larger stabilizer. The standard ESP system, which can be deactivated, has also been tuned to the car’s sporty character. The new Corsa OPC comes with 17-inch alloy wheels with 215/45 R17 tires ex works, while 18-inch rims and size 225 tires are available as an option. The large 16-inch brake system with blue painted brake calipers ensures powerful deceleration: the Corsa OPC boasts internally ventilated, 308 mm front disk brakes and 264 mm disk brakes at the rear.

Sportiness also dominates the Corsa OPC’s cockpit. In addition to the typical OPC door sills, chrome-ringed instruments with red pointers and blue-ringed air vents (also available in silver), the flat-bottomed leather sports steering wheel is especially eye-catching. Also reminiscent of motor sport vehicles, the steering wheel features a blue (or optionally silver) ring at its crown, while the center console in piano lacquer finish and aluminum pedals underline the sporty, high quality ambience. Particularly striking are the newly developed Recaro sports seats with integrated head restraints. The race-car-like seats protect both the driver and front passenger with integrated side airbags − a world premiere for this type of seat.

The introduction of the Corsa expands Opel’s OPC program to five model lines. The top-of-the-line Vectra OPC with 206 kW/280 hp is available as a sedan or station wagon. The Zafira OPC − the fastest production van in the world with a top speed of 231 km/h − and the Astra OPC both have a 177 kW/240 hp, two-liter turbo engine. The Meriva OPC is powered by an engine similar to that of the Corsa OPC: with 132 kW/180 hp and a top speed of over 220 km/h, the versatile five-seater is unique in the minivan segment.

“The OPC models embody pure sportiness, infusing the brand with emotion and passion. That is why the OPC version fits brilliantly to the new Corsa, which is positioned as a young car offering plenty of fun,” says Alain Visser, Executive Director, European Opel Marketing.

as an option. The large 16-inch brake system with blue painted brake calipers ensures powerful deceleration: the Corsa OPC boasts internally ventilated, 308 mm front disk brakes and 264 mm disk brakes at the rear.

Sportiness also dominates the Corsa OPC’s cockpit. In addition to the typical OPC door sills, chrome-ringed instruments with red pointers and blue-ringed air vents (also available in silver), the flat-bottomed leather sports steering wheel is especially eye-catching. Also reminiscent of motor sport vehicles, the steering wheel features a blue (or optionally silver) ring at its crown, while the center console in piano lacquer finish and aluminum pedals underline the sporty, high quality ambience. Particularly striking are the newly developed Recaro sports seats with integrated head restraints. The race-car-like seats protect both the driver and front passenger with integrated side airbags − a world premiere for this type of seat.

The introduction of the Corsa expands Opel’s OPC program to five model lines. The top-of-the-line Vectra OPC with 206 kW/280 hp is available as a sedan or station wagon. The Zafira OPC − the fastest production van in the world with a top speed of 231 km/h − and the Astra OPC both have a 177 kW/240 hp, two-liter turbo engine. The Meriva OPC is powered by an engine similar to that of the Corsa OPC: with 132 kW/180 hp and a top speed of over 220 km/h, the versatile five-seater is unique in the minivan segment.

“The OPC models embody pure sportiness, infusing the brand with emotion and passion. That is why the OPC version fits brilliantly to the new Corsa, which is positioned as a young car offering plenty of fun,” says Alain Visser, Executive Director, European Opel Marketing.

.paul

02-05-2007, 11:58 AM

God I hope that Opel comes to the US. I'd dump the P5 in .000000234 seconds for that.

mikeyb

02-05-2007, 12:03 PM

God I hope that Opel comes to the US. I'd dump the P5 in .000000234 seconds for that.

I would love to see the Corsa here. The Astra is coming as a Saturn so I would think GM would consider this too. How does a Saturn Corsa sound? I would rather have this then a Aveo.

mikeyb

02-08-2007, 08:45 AM

Subaru R1e Electric Switch Debut in Geneva

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Short-distance commuter car
Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI) will exhibit the “Boxer Turbo Diesel” engine and the Subaru R1e electric vehicle at the 77th Geneva International Motor Show. At present, ten units of the Subaru R1e electric vehicle are used for daily business operations by TheTokyo Electric Power Company, Incorporated (TEPCO), Subaru’s joint development partner, for road-testing with an eye to a market debut down the road. FHI intends to commercialize the Subaru R1e as a short-distance commuter car based on the Subaru R1 mini-vehicle currently available in the Japanese market. A TEPCO-developed high-speed charger that will charge 80% in no more than 15 minutes will be also showcased.
Other vehicles to be exhibited (models marked with * will be available only on public open days)

Subaru Impreza WRC 2007 prototype (reference vehicle)
B9 Tribeca (5+2 passengers, 5 passengers)
Outback (3.0R, 2.5i*)
Legacy (Sedan 3.0R, Wagon 3.0R, Wagon 3.0R*, Wagon 2.0R*)
Forester (2.5 XT and 2.0 X*)
Impreza (Sedan WRX STI, Wagon 2.0R*, Wagon 1.5R*)
G3X Justy (1.3*)

mikeyb

02-08-2007, 08:46 AM

Subaru Boxer Turbo Diesel World Premiere in Geneva

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The world's first
The world’s first horizontally-opposed turbo diesel engine – offering exceptional refinement and smoothness – makes it debut at the 77<SUP>th</SUP> Geneva International Motor Show next month on the Subaru stand.
The Japanese all-wheel drive specialist – renowned for producing cars with outstanding chassis dynamics and active safety – will be displaying an entire drivetrain at the ’show.
Subaru believes passionately in its ‘boxer’ engines which are more compact than in-line units and provide a much lower centre-of-gravity.
This reduces body roll for safer cornering and also enhances handling precision such as during a sudden lane-change maneuver on a motorway.
Due for its first vehicle application early next year, the Subaru ‘boxer’ turbo diesel is a highly rigid unit with low levels of noise and vibration.
Not only does this eliminate the need for a balancer shaft which counters uneven combustion pressures and general roughness, but Subaru’s first diesel is as compact as its petrol sisters and combines unusually strong pulling power at low engine speeds with high-rev throttle-response.
Both the engine and symmetrical all-wheel drive drivetrain will be unveiled as part of Subaru’s press conference at the ’show on March 6 at 10.15 am.

seanmcsean

02-08-2007, 09:14 AM

a turbo diesel boxer???? cool!

That has to have a very very unique sound.

.paul

02-08-2007, 09:32 AM

a turbo diesel boxer???? cool!

That has to have a very very unique sound.
Agreed.

I'd say it has a clackity thump.

spike blue

02-09-2007, 01:05 AM

i love the corse!! Back in Colombia my uncle has one the base though but is pretty nice ass hell!!

tunersteve

02-09-2007, 02:10 AM

So I take it the Corsa is smaller than the Astra, right? It looks alot like the Chevy WRCC concept they had floating around recently. Sharp looking car though.

God I hope that Opel comes to the US. I'd dump the P5 in .000000234 seconds for that.

mikeyb

02-09-2007, 08:09 AM

So I take it the Corsa is smaller than the Astra, right? It looks alot like the Chevy WRCC concept they had floating around recently. Sharp looking car though.

The Corsa is smaller then the Astra. I would love to see it here. The General only has one small car in its lineup here. The Chevy Aveo.

mikeyb

02-09-2007, 05:46 PM

Peugeot 207 RC Revealed

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207 RC – Performance par excellence

The 207 RC will be launched at the beginning of the spring and will write the next chapter in Peugeot’s history of small performance cars, such as the 205 GTi of the 1980s and, more recently, the 206 RC. Both of these cars especially delighted enthusiasts with their pure driving enjoyment and provoked much jealousy from drivers of less sporty versions.
The 207 RC is the modern evolution of a compact vehicle with a strong sporting temperament. The sophisticated technology fitted to the car is a result of Peugeot’s expertise in building this type of vehicle. It is a very multitalented car which is easy to live with on a day-to-day basis, whilst still able to provide a driving experience to satisfy the “enthusiast in everyone”.

The 207 RC combines

The elegant and strong styling characteristics of the 207 3-door “Sport” model… enhanced by an improved specification with a hint of luxury. This combination creates a sporting look that enthusiasts will relish;
The strong and assertive personality of the 207… and a turbocharged petrol engine with direct petrol injection and a maximum power output of 128 kW ( 175 bhp) and a torque of 240 Nm - developed in co-operation with the BMW Group. With its high torque output, this engine offers a very high level of performance underlined by a very sporty exhaust note;
The universally praised handling qualities of the 207 range… are combined with the latest safety equipment which has been selected and developed by Peugeot using all its knowledge in this field. The result is excellent road holding and a level of active safety never before achieved in this market segment, enabling any driver to enjoy driving the 207 RC to the full;
A passenger compartment which is welcoming, ergonomically designed and fully equipped for motoring enthusiasts. Its sporty character can be enjoyed on a daily basis, but for a taste of competitive driving, just fit a safety harness etc… and head for the nearest racing circuit ….
While the raison d’être of the 207 RC is to appeal to individuals who are passionate about driving, the car’s standard specification will be left to the discretion of the different markets. Therefore, the 207 RC can appeal to “performance purists” with a version focused mainly on the technology package and its necessary equipment.

207 RC
Genuine performance car looks

The 207 RC has the same length of 4.037 m as the 207 Sport hatchback, the same dynamic 3-door body shape with its expressive look at the front, combined with a wider front and rear track and wheel arches inspired by the 206 WRC and the world of motor sport.
Its styling is based on strong but subtly recognisable traits – performance-enhancing features and exclusive finishing touches – all symbols of its personality.
Ready to put to the test, the Bridgestone Potenza 205/45R17W tyres mounted on new 17" nine-spoke “Pitlane” wheels, a rear spoiler to optimise aerodynamic efficiency at high speed and a trapezoid twin chrome exhaust, all confirm the 207 RC’s sporty character.

Its efficient design and look confirm its purpose, thanks to the dark “black chrome” masking of the feline shaped headlamps.
The choice of exterior colours for the 207 RC captures the performance car feel perfectly with existing colours including: Bianca White, Flamenco Red, Obsidien Black, Metallic Grey, Aegean Blue and a new pearlescent anthracite colour - Shark Grey - which particularly reflects the car’s temperament.
This new colour is reserved for the RC only, as is the dark tinted rear windscreen and rear windows, the bright finish of the door B-post trims and the hi-tech satin chrome door mirror covers.

The heart of an “athlete” … power on demand

The 1.6 litre THP (Turbo High Pressure) engine produces a maximum power of 128 kW (175 bhp) and a torque of 240 Nm from only 1600 rpm. The torque output of the engine remains unchanged all the way up to 4500 rpm but can be increased to 260 Nm temporarily, thanks to the “over-boost” function. It is fitted with a 5-speed manual gearbox with specific gear ratios.
This engine is characterised by its high power output and maximum torque produced at very low engine speeds, offering exceptional acceleration while maintaining constant speed fuel consumption at a reasonable level.

With the driver only in the car, performance figures are as follows:

Maximum speed: 220 km/h
1000 m standing start: 27.8 s
0 – 100 km/h: 7.1 s
In gear acceleration (5th): 7.0 s 80 – 120 km/h
While combined fuel consumption is 7.2 litres/100 km (171 g of CO2/km)

To achieve both excellent performance and low fuel consumption the engine includes a number of innovative features, such as:

Direct, high-pressure petrol injection, allowing a high power output and also low fuel consumption and low emissions. The system consists of a high-pressure injection pump supplying individual fuel injectors that inject fuel directly into the combustion chamber at a maximum pressure of 120 bar.
An “over-boost” system, enabling the torque output to be increased temporarily from 240 Nm to 260 Nm in the top three gears.
A Twin-Scroll turbocharger, which first appeared on the THP 150 bhp engine, which combines the exhaust gases flowing from two individual cylinders in the exhaust manifold before they enter the turbocharger compressor. The combined flow of the exhaust gasses is directed through “Scrolls” in the turbocharger turbine housing increasing the force applied to “rotate” the turbine. The direct result is a reduction in the turbocharger response time (turbo lag). The turbocharger compressor of this new and extremely efficient engine is made of steel due to the high operating temperatures.
Continuously variable timing of the inlet camshaft (Variable Valve Timing (VVT)) and the use of roller cam followers, help to reduce internal friction and increase power and torque while also reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
The controlled output oil pump supplies only the exact volume of oil required by the engine and eliminates unnecessary engine power consumption and the detrimental effect on fuel consumption.

Trained muscles

The excellent road holding of the 207 RC is a result of the strong structural design of the 207 and its proven suspension setup, developed to enhance both safety and driving pleasure.
Strengthened McPherson type front struts and front ball joints, a stiffer rear torsion beam, changes to the stiffness of the front and rear springs and damper settings, electric power steering calibrated according to the new performance levels, and larger ventilated front disc brakes (302 x 26 mm), distinguish the 207 RC from the rest of the range. A car with performance in its genes, the 207 RC is equipped as standard with the latest-generation ESP system which can be switched off fully, thereby disconnecting the traction control, yaw control and emergency braking assistance functions. This will, therefore, allow more demanding and experienced drivers to appreciate the exceptional handling of the 207 RC, particularly on a racing circuit.

A new innovation: the SSP function (Steering Stability Program)

This function manages the dialogue between the ESP system functions and the vehicle’s electric power steering when braking on surfaces that have different grip levels for the right-hand and left-hand wheels.
The system applies more braking power to the wheels with good grip and, anticipating any vehicle instability, applies torque to the steering to help the driver achieve optimal directional control. Unlike an ABS system which limits braking of the wheels with good grip to give priority to vehicle control, this system reduces braking distances by around 4 % while still guaranteeing vehicle stability in a straight line.

A passenger compartment for enthusiasts passionate about motor sport… and others

A sporty interior…
Firmly anchored in the world of motor sport, the passenger compartment of the 207 RC accommodates each of its four potential occupants in “bucket” style seats that provide excellent support. The sculpted and ergonomically designed front seats have been based on those used in motor sport and trimmed in dark “alcantara” with a matching 3D mesh. Their visual appeal is enhanced by visible light-coloured stitching which matches that of the passenger compartment “alcantara” trimmed door panels, carpets, and the gear lever gaiter.
The very stylish “furnishings” of the 207 RC interior are combined with:
An instrument panel which is similar to that usually found on a motor bike, with its circular chrome-trimmed dials, checked graphics, rounded typography and red needles.
The smooth, perforated, leather steering wheel has moulded thumb grips and is further enhanced by a ring with an “Indy” decoration – an exclusive, soft-to-the-touch material is used on the air vent controls and centre console of the 207 RC. Aluminium pedals with non-slip pads finish of the driver’s footwell area.
… To be enjoyed in complete safety…
The 207 RC benefits from the 207’s strong and protective structure that incorporates a number of innovative solutions to protect the occupants in the event of a front impact, such as the double impact absorption bars and the door retention pins for side impact. Combined with six air bags and two Isofix child safety seat mountings at the rear, the 207 was awarded five stars in the EuroNCAP test for adult occupants, four stars for child occupant protection and three stars in the test to assess the protection offered to pedestrians involved in a collision with the vehicle.
… not forgetting equipment for
comfort and convenience…
Occupants of the 207 RC will appreciate the automatic dual-zone air conditioning and comfort equipment (standard or optional according to destination) such as the MP3 compatible CD / radio, the JBL Hi-fi system, or the Peugeot RT3 telematics system with RDS radio, GPS satellite navigation and GSM telephone with 7’’ 16/9 colour display. In addition, drivers of the 207 RC will also benefit from a number of driving aids and safety systems, including as standard.
A rear parking aid, elliptical headlamps incorporating static directional lighting, a speed limiter coupled with a cruise control, headlamps which automatically switch on or automatic windscreen wipers with a rain sensor, tyre under-inflation sensors, folding electric door mirrors and an electro-chrome interior rear-view mirror …

mikeyb

02-09-2007, 05:51 PM

Citroen C-Crosser

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Its a French Mitsubishi Outlander.

tunersteve

02-09-2007, 07:39 PM

I would love to see that replace the Aveo, or come over as a Saturn and sell it along side the Aveo.

The Corsa is smaller then the Astra. I would love to see it here. The General only has one small car in its lineup here. The Chevy Aveo.

mikeyb

02-09-2007, 09:14 PM

Peugeot 4007

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Another French Mitsu Outlander.....

mikeyb

02-09-2007, 09:23 PM

Peugeot Holland & Holland 4007 Concept Car

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.paul

02-09-2007, 11:10 PM

(puke) whoa!! what's up with the pea soup green color? The rest of it looks well, bland but not as much as the regular 4007.

I like the 207, but the front overhang seem a bit longish to me. I guess it's because of the pedestrian safety standards....damn pedestrians, if they'd just look where they're walking before they go waltzing out into the streets cars wouldn't have to have these big broad ass front ends.
[/rant](killit)

mikeyb

02-11-2007, 09:53 AM

Peugeot 207 SW Outdoor Concept

http://www.worldcarfans.com/news/2070209.004/2070209.004.mini1L.jpg

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mikeyb

02-14-2007, 11:09 AM

Unique Zagato Diatto Ottovu Project

http://www.worldcarfans.com/news/2070214.004/2070214.004.mini1L.jpg

The Geneva motor show goes on - the by now classic tradition of passionate clients of exclusive car manufacturers, which has always stimulated the creativity of the Italian vehicle body makers and enhanced international motor shows.
On the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the Diatto brand, two keen collectors turned to Zagato with the aspiration of resurrecting past collaboration. Way back in 1921, Ugo Zagato designed a lightweight and aerodynamic body for the Diatto 25 4DS chassis.
In 2007, the Milanese Atelier with its typically rationalist approach to a project, revamps, with a sporty note, the artistry of one of the most historical brands of the Italian automotive industry: Diatto.
Created in 1835 with a Perfected Wheel patent, Diatto made their first car in 1905 and often crossed paths with Zagato in their close collaboration with Ettore Bugatti, the Maserati brothers and Tazio Nuvolari.

mikeyb

02-14-2007, 11:10 AM

Saab BioPower 100 Concept

http://www.worldcarfans.com/news/2070214.011/2070214.011.1M.jpg

Bioethanol Performance Potential Unleashed

Saab will give green motoring a performance boost at next month’s Geneva Motor Show when it unveils its latest BioPower development.
The Saab BioPower 100 Concept showcases the first production-based engine to be optimized for pure bioethanol (E100) fuel. The result is a level of performance never seen before from a road car using this fuel.
To be shown as an exciting evolution of the Saab 9-5 SportCombi, this latest BioPower concept demonstrates the great performance potential of bioethanol. In combining Saab turbocharging expertise with the use of high octane E100 fuel, the optimized 2.0-liter engine from the 9-5 range develops 300 hp maximum power. This has been possible through modifications to the engine management system and internal components, allowing the use of greater boost pressure with a raised compression ratio.
That exceptionally high specific power output of 150 hp per liter demonstrates scope for future ‘rightsizing’, using smaller, high output engines that also deliver energy savings.
Peak power is complemented by a substantial 400 Nm of torque, giving this optimized engine the power characteristics of a naturally-aspirated engine of 4.0-liters displacement. This is reflected in strong performance, the Saab 9-5 BioPower 100 Concept achieving zero to 100 kph acceleration in just 6.6 seconds and 80 - 120 kph (fifth gear) in an even more impressive 8.2 seconds.
The Saab BioPower 100 Concept being shown at Geneva features exterior and interior styling elements supervised by GME Director of Advanced Design, Anthony Lo, who penned Saab’s award-winning Aero X Concept, which was also premiered at Geneva last year.

Saab already markets Europe’s best selling flex-fuel vehicle, the Saab 9-5 BioPower, and the Saab BioPower 100 Concept will extend its leadership position in the development of bioethanol technology.
“Bioethanol is a potent, high quality fuel which opens up exciting possibilities in helping to meet the environmental challenges that face us,” says Kjell ac Bergström, President and CEO at GM Powertrain - Sweden, who has led the Saab BioPower 100 engine development team.

“As the need to reduce energy consumption increases, we are exploring ways to run smaller engines that give relatively high power, with and without hybrid technology. This concept car shows that bioethanol can play a key role in this ‘rightsizing’ process, while also minimizing fossil fuel emissions.”

mikeyb

02-14-2007, 11:16 AM

Chevrolet HHR European Debut
http://www.americancarfans.com/news/2070214.002/2070214.002.mini2L.jpg

http://www.americancarfans.com/news/2070214.002/2070214.002.mini1L.jpg

Unique styling

Chevrolet HHR Brings Fun and Functionality to the Compact Segment
Unique styling with functional interior
Fun to drive and spacious Chevrolet Europe is considering bringing the HHR to Europe and will unveil the exciting compact model at Geneva motor show on March 6. The HHR is a unique vehicle that combines styling and interior adaptability to create a vehicle suited to all lifestyles and it has a distinct design that was inspired by the 1949 Chevrolet Suburban – the original utility vehicle.
HHR is a four-door vehicle with a rear touch-pad liftgate. Its high roof evokes the look of the innovative 1949 Chevy Suburban.The HHR is easily recognizable with its large, square fender flares and a hemispherical grille. The jeweled lighting effects, as well as a flared, twin-taillamp design in the rear that create a look that is half street machine and half vintage Corvette. Stamped door and window appearances with a one-piece wraparound molding contribute to the clean, detailed design and are uncommon in contemporary vehicles. The HHR’s rear window is flush with the body side.
The HHR has a choice of two technologically sophisticated inline four-cylinder engines, which balances usable power with fuel and emissions efficiency: the 2.2L engine with 149hp and torque of 210 Nm and the 2.4L unit with 175 hp and torque of 228 Nm.

seanmcsean

02-14-2007, 11:59 AM

the zagato kind of looks like the 612 scaglietti doesn't it?

.paul

02-14-2007, 02:33 PM

the zagato kind of looks like the 612 scaglietti doesn't it?
That's probably what it's based off of.

mikeyb

02-15-2007, 09:05 AM

Bertone Concept

http://www.worldcarfans.com/news/2070215.002/2070215.002.1M.jpg

Open top two-seater Fiat

Aggressive and refined. Futuristic and minimalist. In extreme synthesis, that is the new Bertone-designed concept car with which the Company is celebrating its 95<SUP>th</SUP> anniversary at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show (8-18 March 2007).
Characterised by dynamic proportions and a dynamic style, the new concept car is a true open two-seater sports model on Fiat Panda 100 HP mechanicals that harks back explicitly to the Fiat 500 barchetta designed by a young Nuccio Bertone in 1947 as a one-off for his own personal use in races.
Bertone’s choice of the Fiat brand to celebrate its 95<SUP>th</SUP> anniversary was both natural and emotional. Natural because Fiat is the Italian brand par excellence. Emotional because the birth of Bertone as a coachbuilder of “special” vehicles is closely linked to the history of the Fiat brand. The historic relationship between the two companies has lasted for more than eighty years and has generated more than fifty highly successful models counting concept cars, one-offs and production cars, from the 850 Spider to the X1/9, from the Ritmo Cabrio to the Punto Cabrio

mikeyb

02-15-2007, 09:09 AM

Rinspeed Exasis Concept

http://www.worldcarfans.com/photos/3070215.001/1001.jpg

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mikeyb

02-16-2007, 05:00 PM

Lexus IS-F to Make European Debut

http://www.japanesecarfans.com/news/2070216.005/2070216.005.1M.jpg

European debut for new Lexus F-marque
Lexus IS-F powered by 5.0-litre V8 with more than 400bhp
Lexus LF-A supercar concept with 5.0-litre V10
Lexus LS 600h with V8 hybrid powertrain
Lexus is presenting the European premiere of its new F-marque at the Geneva motor show, with the new IS-F sports saloon and LF-A supercar concept taking centre stage.
The Lexus F designation identifies vehicles specifically designed and engineered for ultra-high performance and exceptional sports driving dynamics. F-badged models further emphasise Lexus’s pursuit of perfection and its aim to continuously push the limits of automobile engineering.
LEXUS IS-F
The IS-F is powered by a sports-tuned 5.0-litre V8 that delivers more than 400 DIN hp and 500 Nm of torque. Acceleration from rest to 62mph takes 4.9 seconds and top speed is a governed 168mph. Carbon dioxide emissions of 290g/km position the IS-F as one of the cleanest sports saloons in its class, as well as one of the most powerful.
The transmission is based on Lexus’s world-first eight-speed automatic, which made its debut last year in the new LS 460. It is specially tuned for the IS-F with a new sports shift control that lets the driver choose a manual mode, using paddle shifts on the steering wheel, or fully automatic gear selection. The sports shift control gives the transmission the quickest up-shifting in the segment at 100 milliseconds (compared to 50ms for Formula 1 cars).
In keeping with its sporting character, the IS-F is the first Lexus to feature switchable VDIM (Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management). This lets the driver select Normal, Sport or Off settings according to preference.
LEXUS LF-A
The Lexus LF-A is the result of Lexus’s sports engineering team’s success in developing a new and practical approach to design engineering for a more compact and energy-efficient supercar concept.
With an overall length of 4,400mm, it is the most compact, yet most powerful Lexus to date. The racing-inspired 5.0-litre V10 engine generates more than 500 DIN hp, giving the LF-A a top speed approaching 200mph. The forward/mid-engine location, with rear-mounted transaxle and radiators gives the car perfect front/rear weight distribution and superb handling precision.
LEXUS LS 600h
Both the IS-F and the LF-A demonstrate the advances Lexus has made in perfecting the base technologies that shape its cars’ performance characteristics. The LS 600h shows how these can be even further refined to deliver power with supreme efficiency, setting new standards in environmentally-conscious performance in the premium segment.
The new LS 600h is the highest expression of current automobile technology. Its 5.0-litre V8 uses Lexus’s D-4S technology, with two fuel injectors per cylinder and VVTi-E intelligent valve timing on the intake to boost performance and reduce emissions, noise and vibration.
These characteristics are further refined by Lexus’s hybrid system. This combination, together with a unique, electrically-controlled continuously variable transmission, delivers performance typical of a normally-aspirated V12. At the same time, combined fuel consumption is 29.7mpg and carbon dioxide emissions are 220g/km, figures which compare well with the levels achieved by the cleanest diesels in the segment.
The dual-stage, CVT gives the LS 600h smooth, linear power delivery and seamless acceleration. It is matched to the all-wheel drivetrain with a central mechanical Torsen limited slip differential to give excellent handling stability in high performance driving.
In addition, Lexus will present its first long wheelbase model, the LS 600h L, offering unprecedented entertainment and relaxation features for rear seat passengers, including a reclining seat with leg and footrest.

.paul

02-16-2007, 05:02 PM

Any info on the rinspeed?

mikeyb

02-16-2007, 05:18 PM

Rinspeed Exasis Concept

Glass-free transparency to debut at Geneva

"There's never been anything like it" were the words used in the online edition of an acclaimed international news magazine to describe its editor's reaction when the first sketches of the new Rinspeed concept car, "eXasis", appeared on the Internet, "and it looks like no other vehicle before it". In fact, the illustrations could only hint at what Swiss automotive visionary Frank M. Rinderknecht had thought up in collaboration with the experts from Bayer MaterialScience AG – one of the largest plastics producers in the world – to mark his company's 30th anniversary: a drivable "glass" car with a completely transparent body and floor made of Makrolon®. Once again, this Rinspeed creation has been built by the Swiss engineering specialists Esoro, and will be shown to the public for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show (March 8-18, 2007), 40 years after Bayer presented the first "all-plastic car" at the K67 Plastics Fair in Germany in 1967.

"Everyone who sees the eXasis for the first time raves about the glass car, but they actually mean our transparent high-tech plastic," says Ian Paterson, the member of the Bayer MaterialScience Board of Management responsible for Innovation, describing the typical reaction to the prototype. "Many people only talk about innovation. We do it, in conjunction with our partners." In fact, nearly all the Bayer MaterialScience business units were involved in the development of the concept car, providing products such as surface coatings and polyurethanes (for molding tools). but it was the plastics experts from BMS with their Makrolon® polycarbonate who were responsible for the transparency of the eXasis. Frank M. Rinderknecht: "In this ethereal transparency, the true spirit of the eXasis becomes visible. An abstract idea becomes material, visions become a tangible car. Yet the eXasis still doesn't seem to have quite arrived in our material world."

So is it just a clever 3D projection, a fata morgana or perhaps a four-wheel ‘objet d'art’? In any case, the third vehicle to emerge from the cooperation between the two companies differs fundamentally from the other two: the futuristic-looking "Senso" and the pureblooded "zaZen" sports car. The eXasis is a completely new development, in other words it is not based on a production-line vehicle. The insect-like, shiny yellow body with the exposed wheels looks like a mix of the legendary Auto-Union racing cars from the first half of the last century and an off-road vehicle, offering room for two people, one behind the other. The reinterpretation of the frequently cited cigar form is crowned in the "sexy" rear section with an attractively integrated ventilator and a superb matching, highly polished Remus exhaust muffler. And the transparency also provides an unrestricted view of the compact 2-cylinder 750 ccm Weber engine, which, very unusually, sits above the transmission.

The eXasis is a real eye-catcher with nothing to hide. The outer Makrolon® shell, molded by the Swiss firm Mecaplex and coated with a tinge of yellow by the German hard coatings specialist, KRD, reveals the vehicle's load-bearing aluminum chassis. The chassis looks as if it has been cut from a solid piece of material, and in fact the bulkheads are. Despite this, the entire construction exudes a sense of lightness like bamboo, underlined by a Lesonal chrome effect finish based on Bayer MaterialScience's Desmodur® and Desmophen®. To finish the surfaces of the knobs and levers, the Bayer experts came up with a special soft-feel coating based on waterborne binders – their sole aim being to pamper the eyes and hands of the driver.
The two occupants sit in special seats designed in cooperation with Recaro. Each seat consists of twelve transparent Makrolon® ribs – the same number as a human being has. The head restraint and armrests are made of transparent Technogel®. The Hightex/Sellner Group, which is specialized in interior design, was responsible not only for the futuristic seat coverings and the design of the fabric-covered steering wheel, it has also added a number of other stylish highlights. One example is the innovative application of aluminized glass fiber material with a diamond-shape design on the wheel rims, trim, wishbones, fuel tank and headlamps.

The two transparent indicator and function displays are an absolute delight, both technically and optically. They seem to hover on both sides in the driver's field of vision. By touching them, various functions can be displayed and controlled. Each of the touchpanels is made of a transparent CD/DVD Makrolon® blank that has been coated with electrically conductive Baytron® from H.C. Starck to trigger the switch functions. The displays were developed by the Swiss safety and closure system specialists, Kaba. The personalized access system to the car is also be integrated in the touch panels.

The "eXasis" is powered by an extremely lightweight, 150 bhp Weber engine driven by CO2-emission-reducing bioethanol. In view of the fact that the car weighs only 750 kg because of its lightweight plastic construction, one horsepower has to shift only 5 kg – and that is about the same as a very nippy Porsche.

Rinspeed was also able to persuade some state-owned companies and government departments to become involved in the eXasis project. The fuel is provided by Alcosuisse, the profit center of the Swiss Alcohol Board, while the Swiss Federal Office of Energy has chosen the eXasis to take part in a study on the subject of lightweight construction and ecology. More information on bioethanol and Germany's first fuel station brand for environmentally friendly fuels can be found on the Internet at biofuel24.de.

To transfer all this power to the road, the KW chassis specialists have accommodated the tailor-made spring and shock absorber units vertically in the front in the partition wall and horizontally at the rear. The tires are Pirelli's 22-inch High-Performance P Zero, mounted on forged five-spoke wheels manufactured by the German wheel maker, AEZ. Here too, attention to detail is evident: the wheels are decorated with transparent "inlays" of Makrolon® that look like small windows.

Despite the attractive sweeping contours that blend smoothly into the car's transparency, the eXasis is ‘edgy’ and definitely has a character of its own. But everybody who has the pleasure of driving it is agreed on one thing: glancing down through the transparent floor while the car is moving gives a very special kind of thrill…

Swiss made: Esoro

Frank M. Rinderknecht used highly advanced technology and a Swiss-based network of top automotive specialists for his project. Although there is no automobile production in Switzerland, there is a very active automotive supply industry there. Many highly innovative prototypes have been developed and manufactured in Switzerland. engineered by Esoro - What you dream is what you get.
For the eighth time the Swiss engineering company Esoro was hired to serve as general contractor for the entire vehicle project. Esoro was responsible for project management, implementation of new technologies, engineering, design and manufacturing of the Rinspeed “eXasis”.
Esoro realized the concept with the help of its highly competent suppliers Schwaller AG (chassis), Weber Motor / Swissauto (engine) and Protoscar (styling). Starting with initial concepts, it took the highly skilled development team just six months to realize the entire project.
Esoro has been a contract developer in the areas of automotive production, lightweight design and plastics technology for 16 years. During this time it has gained a well-deserved reputation for excellent efficiency and innovative solutions not just in these but also in other fields, including fuel-cell vehicles and prototype design. Esoro has impressively demonstrated its expertise with numerous extraordinary prototypes.
Another recent development from Esoro is the new E-LFT production technology developed for Weber Fibertech. E-LFT makes large scale production of high-strength and lightweight composite parts affordable. E-LFT composite parts weigh 30-50 percent less than comparable steel parts. The tailgate of the new smart fortwo is actually produced with our E-LFT technology. Furthermore another production process for niche markets, like high performance cars, trucks and caravans is now introduced by ESORO to several OEM’s. The new and patented process called Melt Embossing does offer the possibility to produce high end thermoplastic composite parts with low initial invest for structural and semi-structural applications. Esoro is able to offer the entire service starting from topological optimization and explicit FE calculations trough to the delivery of the serial parts.

mikeyb

02-16-2007, 05:18 PM

eXasis – why the Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE) is involved in this project

The SFOE is interested in the eXasis concept for two main reasons: The vehicle is energy-efficient thanks to its lightweight construction and it is powered by renewable energy.
The most effective way to cut a motor vehicle’s fuel consumption is to reduce its body weight, and this in turn gives rise to other weight reductions: Lighter vehicle - lighter components - smaller and lighter engine.
Effects of improvements:
<TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=4 width="95%" border=1><COLGROUP><COL width=128></COL><COL width=128></COL><THEAD><TR vAlign=top><TD width="50%">Nature of improvement
</TD><TD width="50%">Reduction of fuel consumption in %
</TD></TR></THEAD><TBODY><TR vAlign=top><TD width="50%">Weight reduction by 1%
</TD><TD width="50%">- 0.7%
</TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD width="50%">Reduction of air resistance by 1%
</TD><TD width="50%">- 0.25%
</TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD width="50%">Reduction of rolling resistance by 1%
</TD><TD width="50%">- 0.27%
</TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD width="50%">Increase in engine efficiency
</TD><TD width="50%">Equivalent reduction of fuel consumption
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>The SFOE is of course well aware that the eXasis can never be brought onto the commercial market. However, components and assemblies based on its technology can certainly help cut fuel consumption. Viewed in this light, eXasis can function as a demonstration platform for lightweight (i.e. energy-efficient) components such as: seats, body panels and fenders.
The second reason for the SFOE’s involvement in this project concerns the fuel the vehicle uses: E85. This is a mixture comprising 15 percent petrol and 85 percent ethanol. Ethanol is a renewable bio-fuel that is largely CO2 neutral when burned. In the future it will become especially attractive once it can be marketed as a second-generation bio-fuel (i.e. use of the entire plant instead of just its fruit). Thanks to its high octane level, E85 can also be used in engines with a high compression ratio, and this in turn increases the engine’s level of efficiency.
Reduction of CO2 with bioethanol

By signing the protocol of Kyoto, Switzerland engaged to reduce the emission of climate affecting gas. Our law on CO2 requires that the emissions up to the year 2010 get reduced for 10 % compared with 1990. The use of bioethanol as fuel may be a contribution to reach this objective. During its project Etha+, Alcosuisse – a profit centre of the Swiss Alcohol Board – analyses the use and the competitive ability of ethanol blended petrol in Switzerland.

Bioethanol means ethyl alcohol obtained by fermentation of sugars in plants. The chemical formula of bioethanol is the same as for traditional ethanol (C2H5OH). Ethanol may only be named as bioethanol if it is produced from vegetable raw material like for example wood, beets, corn and grass. These renewable energy sources we know also as biomass.

Concerning the production and use of bioethanol as a fuel, Brazil is probably the most advanced country. There, bioethanol takes 22 % of the fuel needs. In the USA, more than 10 % of petrol is blended with more than 10 % bioethanol. In Sweden, the petrol that is blended with 5 % bioethanol gets distributed by the normal cannels and without any special label at the filling station.

Unleaded petrol as a blend with 5 % bioethanol reduces the emission of CO2 for about 3.5 % to 4.0 % per litre petrol replaced by bioethanol. That means there is a reduction of 1.6 kg to 1.8 kg CO2 emission. As long as the ethanol is produced only from renewable raw materials the production lasts CO2 neutral. The emission of greenhouse gas during the production and combustion of bioethanol get compensated by the plant's CO2 intake during its growth.

Several studies allowed express by concrete figures the reduction of CO2 emissions. Unleaded petrol blended with 5 % bioethanol provides for savings of 1.3 litres crude oil and 2.4 kg CO2equiv per added litre bioethanol on the same power density. If the total of Swiss petrol consumption was replaced by ethanol blended petrol, we reached an annual reduction of CO2 greenhouse gas emissions for over 600'000 tons.

However, from the production surplus from potatoes, grain, sugar beets and whey, there could be produced 45 million litre bioethanol today. This corresponds to 900 million litre petrol blended with 5 % bioethanol. That means about a fifth of the Swiss petrol consumption.

Due to the high labour costs and several legal regulations to be met, the prime costs in Switzerland are much higher than for example in Brazil. That's why, for an inland production of bioethanol, a protection by customs or contingents especially during the starting phase would be necessary. This might be difficult to agree with the current economic policy and the existing trade agreements. So, for politic and economic reasons it seems obviously to import the bioethanol. If this is also ecologically efficient, is undecided.

Actually, the largest part of bioethanol that is used for fuel purpose in Switzerland is produced by Borregaard Schweiz AG in Attisholz. The ethanol is obtained by fermentation of a by-product of the cellulose production. The raw material of this Swiss Bioethanol for fuel purpose is wood.

spike blue

02-16-2007, 09:24 PM

damm i love peugeot this must be sell very well here in US i think!!!

mikeyb

02-17-2007, 10:59 AM

Geneva Preview: Suzuki releases official shots of SX4 sedan

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Suzuki has released official images of its SX4 sedan, ahead of its debut at next month’s Geneva Motor Show. The new sedan is based on the 4WD SX4 SUV, but will come with front-wheel-drive only. Under the hood will be a 1.6L gasoline engine developing 107hp (79kW), and its developers have stated that there will be no diesel option. However, US delivered models could possibly get a more powerful V6 version with a five-speed automatic transmission.
The SX4 sedan shares the same front-end styling as the SX4 SUV model, while the interior is decked out in anthracite coal tones. The car will be in showrooms towards the end of the year. Suzuki will also display the SX4 Sedan Sport Concept that’s powered by a 2.0L motor and rides on 17in alloys.
A third SX4 based model, the WRC competition car that Suzuki will use to enter the 2008 WRC will also making a showing in Geneva, as well as the Swift Sport Rallye edition.

mikeyb

02-20-2007, 10:40 AM

Audi A5 Coupe

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.paul

02-20-2007, 10:57 AM

OH EM GE

That is one bad ass audi! See, I told y'all it would look nice once they got rid of the camo and big assed roof lights in that previous thread. I really like that wavy line that comes off the headlights, and traces back to the tail lights. Those are really bad ass looking wheels, too. I'm in love!

A5 > 6 Series y0!

tunersteve

02-20-2007, 11:33 AM

Ya know, it really didn't come out the way I had hoped and I'm not sure how I feel about this car.

seanmcsean

02-20-2007, 01:39 PM

Wow.. That a5 is very very nice!

altspace

02-21-2007, 10:42 AM

"Hide & Seek" is over for the KTM X-BOW as the Austrian bike manufacture released the full press pack of its street-homologated sports car. The X-BOW is KTM’s first attempt of this sort so it was only logical that it would seek the help of “specialists” like Dallara who not only designed the carbon fibre monocoque but it will also produce the sports car at its factory in Italy. KTM’s other big partner is Audi who provided the drivetrain: the220Hp 2.0 TFSI 4-cylindre engine which is complemented by a manual 6-gear transmission. An optional DSG transmission will also be offered. According to KTM the lightweight X-BOW (700 kg or 1.543 pounds) accelerates to 100 km/h (62 mph) in an "Enzo I got u" time of 3.9 seconds.

The car shown at the Geneva Show will base a pilot series of 100 units, which will be produced in Dallara’s factory at the end of 2007. If all goes well in Geneva, KTM is considering to extend the pilot series of the X-Bow into a small-series production between 500 and 1000 units a year that would take place in Austria in 2008. If this happens, KTM is projecting a base price of 40,000 EUROS (about 52.500 USD). Not bad at all.

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Specs:

Engine
Inline-4-cylinder-engine with direct fuel injection system (FSI), turbo-charger and intercooler

Displacement
cm3: 1984

Max. Power
kW (HP) 162 (220)
@ U/min 5900

Max. Torque
Nm (ft-lbs) 300 (221)
@ U/min 2200-4000

Valves
4 pro Zylinder, DOHC

Bore & stroke
mm 82,5 x 92,8

Emission standard
Euro 4

Transmission
Rear-wheel-drive with mechanical slip differential
Gearbox
6-speed-manual

Kerb weight
kg (lbs) 700 (1,543)

Weight distribution front/rear
37/63

Overall length/width/height
mm 3670 x 1870 x 1160
Wheelbase
mm 2430
Center of gravity
mm 400
Track front/rear
mm 1644/1624
Turning circle
m 10,8
Fuel tank capacity
l (gal) 35 (9.2)

Brake system
Front.: 4-piston-caliper
Rear.: 2-piston-caliper

Brake-disk diameter
Front/rear
mm 305/262

Wheels/tyres
Front: 205/40 R17
Rear: 235/40 R18

Acceleration
0-100 kph (62 mph): 3.91 seconds
Top speed kph (mph): 217 (135)

Braking distance 100-0 kph (warm)
m (f) 33,1 (109)

Aerodynamic downforce
kg at 100 kph 48
at 200 kph 193

.paul

02-21-2007, 11:10 AM

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Did anyone notice how low this car redlines? This must be a diesel model or something.

mikeyb

02-21-2007, 01:03 PM

Did anyone notice how low this car redlines? This must be a diesel model or something.

It could be the 4.2L V8.

.paul

02-21-2007, 03:26 PM

I dunno because the 4.2 in the A8 red lines at 6K.
Golly that's a nice interior. =)
http://www.audiusa.com/etc/medialib/cms4imp/audi2/aoa/product/A8MY07/crops/interior.Par.0004.Image.jpg

mikeyb

02-22-2007, 02:58 PM

I dunno because the 4.2 in the A8 red lines at 6K.
Golly that's a nice interior.

I'm thinking its a diesel.

mikeyb

02-22-2007, 03:09 PM

Smart fortwo Brabus and Brabus Xclusive

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Impressive performance and low emissions

At the Geneva Motor Show (06 – 18 March 2007) smart will be presenting the two BRABUS variants of the new smart fortwo to the public for the first time.
Rated at 72 kW / 98 bhp, the smart fortwo BRABUS and smart fortwo BRABUS Xclusive have more than 30 percent more engine power than the BRABUS variant of the predecessor model. At the same time the low consumption and low CO2 emissions demonstrate that this does not have to come at a cost to the environment and customers' wallets.

In addition, the two BRABUS variants boast an extremely low weight to power ratio: at just 7.8 kg/bhp this is 24 percent lower than that of the previous BRABUS variant.
smart fortwo BRABUS: Greater power and sports suspension

The smart fortwo BRABUS places the primary focus on sportiness. Its three-cylinder petrol engine with capacity of one litre delivers 72 kW (98 bhp) and together with maximum torque of 140 Newton metres this lends the 770 kilo two-seater remarkably lively agility. The sprint from zero to 100 km/h takes less than ten seconds and the maximum speed (electronically limited) is 155 km/h.

The exterior of the smart fortwo BRABUS is first and foremost characterised by "Monoblock VI" alloy wheels, wider rear wheel arches, a sports exhaust system and fog lights. Furthermore, it has a firmer suspension setup and is lowered by 15 millimetres.

The interior of the smart fortwo BRABUS is distinguished from that of standard smart fortwo models by a number of BRABUS styling elements, for example for the gear knob, hand-brake handle and pedals. The speedometer, rev counter and clock also bear the BRABUS signature.

The same range of exterior colours is available for the smart fortwo BRABUS as for other smart fortwo models.
smart fortwo BRABUS Xclusive: Luxurious equipment

Sportiness combined with a level of luxury that is unusual in this vehicle class – that's the smart fortwo BRABUS Xclusive. It does not differ from the BRABUS model in terms of drive and performance but it comes with additional equipment that leaves almost nothing to be desired.

Although it also sports wide "Monoblock VI" alloy wheels, wider rear wheel arches, a sports exhaust system and rear apron, it is nevertheless immediately recognisable as a BRABUS Xclusive. This is first and foremost due to the BRABUS front spoiler, BRABUS side skirts and the tinted clear glass headlights.

The interior of the smart fortwo BRABUS Xclusive additionally features heated leather seats embossed with the BRABUS logo. A modified three-spoke leather sports steering wheel with steering wheel gearshift and BRABUS velour floor mats are also included in the standard spec. The instrument panel and door trim have a leather effect. Head/thorax side airbags, otherwise available as an option, are a standard feature in this model. These special side airbags protect the head and chest areas.
The paintwork of the smart fortwo BRABUS Xclusive further underlines the exclusiveness of this model. It is exclusively available in the combinations (tridion safety cell/bodypanels) silver/silver or black/black.

The two BRABUS variants will be launched on the market in the autumn of 2007. The prices will be announced around the middle of the year.

mikeyb

02-22-2007, 05:48 PM

Kia ex_cee'd convertible concept

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PRESS RELEASE:

GENEVA WORLD PREMIERE FOR SCHREYER'S KIA ex_cee'd CABRIO CONCEPT

Kia's exciting all-new ex_cee'd cabrio concept car will be premiered at the 77th Salon de l'Automobiles in Geneva, Switzerland on 6 March.

The styling of the eagerly anticipated ex_cee'd cabrio is the work of Peter Schreyer, Kia's new Chief Design Officer, and hints at the future direction Kia vehicles could be taking under his guidance.

Based on the new three-door cee'd hatchback, due to go into production at the Zilina factory in Slovakia from December, the ex_cee'd shares the same platform, but features all-new exterior panels and a powered folding fabric roof.

By adopting a fabric roof, the ex_cee'd deliberately goes its own retro way rather than following the trend towards cabrios with folding metal roofs. Peter Schreyer paid special attention to designing a classic cabrio with a traditional soft-top roof: "I'm convinced that the fabric roof will have a renaissance. We've all lived with the romantic idea of open-air driving for a long time and for me, the fabric roof is the quintessential element of a truly rewarding cabrio."

With its slight wedge shape profile, muscular wings over 19-inch alloy wheels, and aggressive nose with dynamic front styling, the ex_cee'd has instantly found a form that stands out from the cabrio crowd. The cabrio concept is finished in 'meringue white' exterior paint with a 'bitter chocolate' fabric roof – colours that are echoed by the interior's two-tone leather.

"With this new cabrio concept car, Kia has once again demonstrated that it is a young, style-conscious company that knows how to combine elegance with dynamics," enthused Mr Yong-Hwan Kim, Senior Executive Vice President and COO Kia Motors.

"The Kia ex_cee'd is a fresh aesthetic high-point in our history, an encouraging sign of the growing internationalisation of our brand and a step in the process of evolving into a European company with Korean roots," he added.

altspace

02-23-2007, 10:09 AM

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A teaser sketch of a new crossover SUV from Hyundai has been released ahead of the car's world debut at the Geneva Motor Show.

Few details are known, but the vehicle has been developed using advanced materials and is said to be environmentally friendly. It's also expected to set a new standard for pedestrian impact testing.

Donas64

02-23-2007, 10:27 AM

A5=hotness

mikeyb

02-23-2007, 12:50 PM

Audi S5 pics....

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Look out, BMW 3-series coupe, Infiniti G35 coupe, and Mercedes-Benz CLK, the 2008 Audi A5 and Audi S5 are poised to make their debuts later this year. The images shown here were leaked, not released, weeks ahead of the A5’s official debut at the Geneva auto show in March. Audi probably could have tolerated the A5’s premature release, but company officials are furious because the S5 wasn’t supposed to be revealed until summer. The marketing agency putting together the Audi A5/S5 brochure for which these photos were intended may be in hot water—but we digress.
Derived from the next-generation A4 platform, dubbed B8, the A5 and S5 coupes have just two doors—go figure—bucking the silly four-door-coupe trend that marketers at other manufacturers have dreamed up recently. By year’s end, the A4 cabriolet is expected to defer to a convertible version of the A5, and there’s even talk of a five-door A5 “spaceback” model sometime thereafter.
The four-seat A5 will snatch the A6’s 255-hp, 3.1-liter FSI V-6, but it will be pushed farther behind the front wheels for a more favorable weight distribution. (Rejoice! The next A4 is sure to boost its skidpad numbers.) Although the leaked A5 photos reveal a rear trunk badge reading 3.0 TDI, we expect this will be a Europe-only option—that diesel will only make it stateside in the Q7 SUV for the time being. We speculate that the Audi A5 will be the first vehicle from the brand to mate a dual-clutch sequential-manual transmission to a longitudinally mounted engine. It is unknown if a conventional manual will be offered on our shores.
The S5 will get the same 340-hp, 4.2-liter V-8 found under the hood of the S4 and S4 Avant, possibly updated to 350 horsepower with direct injection, as found in the current A8.
Although the A5's styling isn't terribly original, we can find little fault with it—the latest Audi is pretty stunning. As with every other Audi, the A5 wears the corporate single-frame grille. The detailing in the headlamps, particularly the LEDs that underscore the actual lamps, recall the Audi R8 supercar. The upper-body coke-bottle sculpting also reminds us of the R8, although the lower-body rise is a TT-ism. Somewhat surprising, however, are the formal, notched roofline and the thick C-pillars. The rear end reminds some of us of the 3-series coupe, only executed with considerably more elegance. The S5 packs a bit more visual punch in the form of an egg-crate grille insert, a lower stance, and wide-set quad pipes in place of lesser A5’s duals.
The interior, as expected, is swank. The photos clearly show lots of aluminum trim, Audi-typical gauges, and what appear to be comfortable and supportive sport front seats (but we’ll have to wait until we climb in back to see if we can say the same about the rears). An electronic parking brake and a push-button ignition system will also be standard. And, of course, the capable but complex MMI is there to serve and confuse.
We also wouldn’t be surprised if an RS 5 appeared sometime during the 2009 model year with the RS 4’s direct-injected 4.2-liter V-8 with 420 horsepower.
The A5 will be priced between the A4 and A6, so you will be able to scoop one up for between $35,000 and $40,000. Pricing of the forthcoming S5 is less clear, but we expect it to be in the low-$50,000 range to slightly undercut the 400-hp 2008 BMW M3. One thing is certain: Audi’s new coupe will give empty nesters another alluring option

mikeyb

02-23-2007, 03:20 PM

2007 Maserati GranTurismo

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Behold the Maserati GranTurismo coupe, penned by Ferrari’s favorite designer, Pininfarina, and released ahead of its official debut at the upcoming Geneva auto show. Recall that the previous Maserati coupe was a Giugiaro design. Built on a short-wheelbase version of the Quattroporte platform, the coupe carries on with a Ferrari-derived 4.2-liter DOHC V-8 upgraded to produce 405 horsepower. That’s nine more horses than the previous GranSport coupe could boast and 11 more than the Quattroporte. The only transmission, at least initially, will be the six-speed automatic recently introduced on the Quattroporte, and there are no plans for a convertible in the near future. We estimate the new coupe will wear a $100,000-to-$120,000 price tag when it goes on sale this summer.

Donas64

02-23-2007, 04:37 PM

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This pic is has been my wallpaper for 3 days. By far the best looking Maserati I've seen in a long time. It's like they took the quattroporte, made it a coupe and tweaked the styling just right. Beautiful

.paul

02-23-2007, 10:04 PM

Maybe it's just me, but the first section of the car up to the windshield looks like a RX-8.

Either way, it sure is a nice car.

mikeyb

02-24-2007, 01:53 PM

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Antoine

02-25-2007, 08:10 AM

wannabe

02-25-2007, 08:14 AM

mikeyb

02-25-2007, 09:46 AM

Is it me or does the A5 rear section look similar to the bimmer coupe of the early to mid 90's? The 850...In anycase...I dig it! (thumb)

As for the GranTurismo...Now there is a car that feels unique instead of basically being a rebaged Ferrari.

It looks alittle like the BMW 8 series but I think it looks alot more like a MB CLK. Especially in the side profile.

I really like the GranTurismo..Its very RX-8/Ferrari looking.

mikeyb

02-26-2007, 11:17 AM

All-New VW Golf Variant Revealed

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Europe's number 1 Variant
More than 1.2 million Golf Variant produced since 1993
Over two model generations more than 1.2 million Golf Variants were sold since 1993. Now there is a new generation. To be seen for the first time at the Geneva International Motor Show (8. until 18 March), the third generation of the Golf Variant makes its world premiere.

The new Golf Variant has a cargo capacity of 690 liters with the back seat up and 1,550 liters with it down. From front to end the Golf Variant is 4.56 meters long.

At launch, the Golf Variant will be available with two gasoline and two diesel engines. Performance for the gasoline engines are 75 kW / 102 HP and 103 kW / 140 HP with the later being the TSI twin charger which utilizes both turbo and super charger. The Golf Variant will be the only variant worldwide with this engine configuration.

Identical in power output to the petrol engines, the two diesel engines: 77 kW / 105 HP and 103 kW / 140 HP are two of the most efficient. The smaller of the two engines achieves 100 kilometers with 5.2 liters of fuel and CO2-Emission of 137g/km. In addition, the larger TDI is just as frugal and non-polluting. With a top speed of 205 km/h the Golf Variant 2.0 TDI consumes only 5.6 liters of (CO2: 148 g/km).

mikeyb

02-26-2007, 11:22 AM

BMW M3 Concept at Geneva - 420HP and DSG-style transmission

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BMW will unveil its next-generation M3 in concept form at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show, just as it did with the M5 sedan months before that car went on sale. Like the original M5 concept, this latest M3 version will be virtually identical to the production model and we now have more details about the car’s final specifications.

Powering the coupe will be an all-new 4.0L V8 unit developing 420hp and it’s expected BMW will also be showing a new dual-clutch DSG style transmission to help put power down to the road. Performance should be even better than its Audi RS4 rival thanks to its lighter rear-wheel-drive configuration. To further shed weight, it’s rumoured that BMW might even utilize carbon-fiber for some of the body panels.

BMW will have a tough fight on its hands, especially as it’s now competing with the RS4, Lexus IS-F, and the yet-to-be-released C63 AMG.

The recently revised 1-series hatch, including the new three-door model, as well as the facelifted 5-series sedan and Touring will also be appearing at the Geneva show.

mikeyb

02-26-2007, 05:37 PM

Fiat Grande Punto Abarth

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The legendary Abarth Scorpion returns
A great project will be launched at the 77th Geneva International Motor Show: the rebirth of one of the most prestigious brands in world motorsports. Its symbol is a scorpion, and its name is Abarth.

Abarth has always been synonymous with assertive cars, competitiveness, passion and excitement, and it now returns with a new range that will appeal to all lovers of motorsports. Abarth’s first interpretation of the Grande Punto will be on the “catwalk” at the Geneva Show, the first step in an initiative which will later involve other models.
This new adventure starts in the familiar, uniquely emotional context and exclusive setting of the Geneva Motor Show. A striking stand has been prepared, in line with the philosophy of Abarth’s rebirth, an innovative space with a fresh, contemporary, technological language and great attention to every detail. The new elements that will publicise the Abarth brand are displayed with all their strong, original personality: the revamped version of the famous Abarth racing stripe has been rendered with LED tiles, while the new logo, the scorpion and the wording are all large, three-dimensional elements in polished, satin-effect aluminium.

The Abarth values and tradition on the other hand are underlined discreetly and technologically: refined materials and precious finishing details in aluminium, carbon fibre, enamel and lacquer decorate the exhibition area, and draw attention to the true stars of the stand: the Grande Punto Abarth S2000, a car that has been type-approved for racing and is proving to be highly successful, and the Grande Punto Abarth Preview, a concept car making its world debut.

These are the two souls of the Abarth world: racing and standard production.

Visitors to the Geneva Show will also have an opportunity to discover a third field in which the brand operates; a multimedia configurator will illustrate the whole concept of the ‘Abarth Kit’, and the flexibility and wide range of combinations that the brand will offer customers in its conversion kits. Some of these solid wooden boxes, inlaid with satin-finished aluminium trims, are on display inside glass cubes, with the historic mechanical and stylistic components from the conversion kits.

And finally, by means of exclusive LED technology and plasma screens, the walls of the stand propose historical photographs and films, alternating them with a reproduction of the new Abarth racing stripe, underlining the fine link between the past and the future, as well as the energy and personality that are inherent in the Abarth brand.

The Grande Punto Abarth Preview

The absolute star of the stand is the Grande Punto Abarth Preview, a true jewel of assertiveness and elegance. The car will be marketed in September, to enhance the sporty, youthful positioning of the Grande Punto.

The car on show in Geneva is equipped with a 1.4 Turbo petrol engine that delivers 150 bhp at 5500 rpm, boosted to 155 bhp by the adoption of 98 RON petrol. What is more, thanks to a booster kit, a version with twice as much power as the basic version (180 bhp) will soon be available. This is a revival of a tradition from the past: for example, the Fiat 500 of 1958 delivered 13 bhp at 4000 rpm with a top speed of 85 km/h, while the Fiat 500 Abarth of the same year delivered 26 bhp at 5000 rpm and a top speed of 118 km/h.

The Grande Punto Abarth aims to revive the feats of these entertaining performance cars, offering young drivers in particular an opportunity to enter the racing world in complete safety and at an accessible price.

The Grande Punto Abarth S2000

The public in Geneva will also be able to admire the extraordinary Grande Punto Abarth S2000. This is a racing car designed for racing stables, which the Fiat Racing Department will be entering in the 2007 Italian Rally Championship with Giandomenico Basso and his navigator Mitia Dotta. Davide Gatti, winner of the 2006 Fiat Abarth International Trophy, will compete at the wheel of an official Fiat Grande Punto R3D with a diesel engine. On the international scene, the Grande Punto Abarth S2000 will compete in the IRC (Intercontinental Rally Challenge) with drivers Andrea Navarra, his navigator Guido D’Amore, and young Umberto Scandola and Anton Alen.

The Abarth & C. Spa racing team will be managed by Claudio Berro.

Powered by a 2000 cc aspirated engine that delivers 270 bhp, with 4-wheel drive, the new Grande Punto Abarth S2000 is heir to the version that took the 2006 Italian Rally Championship title with Paolo Andreucci and Anna Andreussi, winning 7 of the 11 races on the programme. Nor must we forget the excellent season of their team-mates Andrea Navarra and Guido D’Amore who took third place. Giandomenico Basso and Mitia Dotta won the European title and the International Rally Challenge.

Since its debut last season, the racing version has proved unbeatable, whatever the type of route or terrain. And we must underline that the 15 cars built so far have been ordered by several racing stables in Europe and elsewhere, to compete in domestic and international rallies. And now, thanks to this technological and competitive superiority, the new Grande Punto Abarth S2000 is ready to compete in these two championships with the same determination and assertiveness.

And finally, as well as a successful car and an outstanding team of drivers, the new Abarth & C. company can also boast a staff with a great deal of experience in motorsports: a total of 113 experts, 26 in the engineering field, 43 on the manufacturing side and 9 dedicated to racing.

mikeyb

02-27-2007, 11:13 AM

Gumpert Apollo Sport

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Rebel amongst super sport cars

It is one of only a handful of super sport cars and after its debut at Geneva’s international Motor Show in 2006 it was clear: the apollo is a synthesis of dynamic and design with pure driving pleasure and unique performance. On the road it speeds like a god and on the race track it cries out to be challenged by an opponent that can match its breathtaking acceleration and incomparable handling. Now, it is due to get a worthy competitor out of its own stable. At the 77th Geneva Motor Show, the Gumpert Sportwagenmanufaktur will present the apollo sport to the wide public.

The apollo sport is the rebel amongst the super sport cars. Its bodywork combines sexy curves with potent edges and angles and aims for uncompromising aerodynamics. A clear demonstration of the principle “form follows function”. Its challenging sporting design derives from the requirement to built a street legal racing car, whose number one priority is to provide extraordinary performance on the circuit, but at the same time embodying a vehicle suitable for daily use.

The highest importance was attached to safety: the tubular space frame in chrome-molybdenum steel with integrated safety monocoque fabricated in carbon-fiber passes all crash-tests regulations, while a cashbox offers additional protection. The gaping air intake stub over the roof and on the rear signals power, dynamics and superiority. The eight cylinder, bi-turbo mid-engine with up to 800 horsepower is capable of catapulting this 1200 kg missile from 0-100 km/h in only 3 seconds.

The apollo sport is equipped with an extended aerodynamic package and, in contrast to the three part spoiler of the apollo, possesses a racing wing which gives even more down force and pushes the spollos’s maximum speed up to 360 km/h.
As you can guess, it is not for nothing that this cars is named after the fierce Greek God.

The two-seater also convinces from the inside, with its sporty and elegant alcantara interior, and offers air-condition, CD-player, navigation system and reverse view camera as standard equipment. A two-layer metallic finish available in any conceivable color, gives this bolide a particular luster. As a special accessory the apollo is equipped with an airjack, a pneumatic jacking pad.

The standard version of the apollo sport costs 299.500,- € plus VAT.

mikeyb

02-27-2007, 11:21 AM

Alfa Romeo at Geneva

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World debut for Spider 2.4 JDTM and Brera Selespeed

Alfa Romeo returns to the Geneva International Motor Show with an exciting stand where standard models alternate with special versions to underline, yet again, the brand’s unique position in the world automotive market.
Simple geometrical shapes define the display area where closed volumes on one side contrast with the aluminium and glass sun-screen at the front, representing elements that define the concept of the Alfa Romeo ‘villa’ by the canons of Italian rationalist architecture. Translated into shapes, colours and materials, the severely essential architectural design provides an ideal setting for the sinuous, aggressive styling of the cars, making them the absolute centre of attention: the whole stand is dominated by red and black, which have always expressed the duality of Alfa Romeo, a blend of passion and technology.
At the Geneva Motor Show, world premieres and today’s product range coexist perfectly, and represent the connotation of ‘sportiness and elegance’ as Alfa Romeo sees it, fruit of the most sophisticated technology and a heritage of cars and designers, races and engines that have written whole chapters in the history of technological progress and racing in the 20<SUP>th</SUP> century.
World premiere of the Alfa Brera 2.2 JTS Selespeed and 200 bhp Alfa Spider 2.4 JTDM

The spotlights of the Swiss Show are also on two cars from the new Alfa Romeo generation: the Alfa Brera, an appealing car that transforms the traditional spirit of the coupé into the more exciting spirit of ‘absolute sportiness’; and the brand new Alfa Spider, which recalls Alfa Romeo’s glorious tradition in this field: from the Giulietta Spider of the 1950s to the Duetto and the Spider launched in the 1990s.
The public in Geneva can admire two cars making their world premiere: one is the 200 bhp Alfa Spider 2.4 JTDM, the first open sports car equipped with a Diesel engine and a sporty 6-speed gearbox which guarantees excellent power and torque deliveries but low consumption.

The second car making its world debut is the Alfa Brera with the new Selespeed robotised gearbox, the technological evolution of the Selespeed unit already equipping other Alfa Romeo models, which adopts an extremely user-friendly robotised electrohydraulic system for manual sequential and automatic gear changes. The new transmission is available on both the Alfa Brera and the Alfa Spider combined with the 185 bhp 2.2 JTS engine.

On the stand there is also an Alfa Spider with the powerful 3.2 V6 JTS 24 valve engine and the new 6-speed automatic transmission, a jewel of automotive engineering that delivers an amazing 191 kW (260 bhp) at 6,300 rpm, and peak torque of 322 Nm (32.8 kgm) at 4,500 rpm. Both Alfa Spiders present the top-of-the-range outfit, which includes 7 airbags, VDC, ASR, dual-zone automatic climate control, wind-stops, natural leather upholstery and 18” alloys.
The Alfa Romeo Customisation Programme

At the Geneva Motor Show, Alfa Romeo presents the new Customisation Programme that allows customers to make their cars even more refined and exclusive. It is a completely new programme from the brand that suggests even more ways to customise cars throughout the range.

Today the Alfa Romeo Customisation programme extends this range of possibilities into three different areas: the first, known as ‘Vintage’, offers exclusive colours for the bodywork and chromatic treatments for the interior that recall the brand’s great history on the roads and racing circuits of the world. The second is known as ‘Collezione’, and explores the world of fashion and elegance, both on the exteriors with multi-layer lacquered paint and alloys with a sparkling finish, and in the interiors where the materials have all been chosen to create a sensation of well-being and beauty. The third area of the Alfa Romeo Customisation programme is ‘TI’ (Turismo Internazionale), which was clearly designed for customers who are particularly demanding where performance, dynamic behaviour and sporty personality are concerned. The programme will be on the market in the coming months, gradually offering new features and extending to the entire range.

Visitors to Geneva will be able to admire a few special versions outfitted with the Alfa Romeo Customisation Programme. First of all an Alfa 147 Collezione with a Shell white body, and an Alfa GT Q2 ‘dressed’ with beautiful three-layer 8C Red paintwork, the same colour that reappears on an Alfa 159 TI and an Alfa 159 Sportwagon TI. The display concludes with an Alfa Brera 2.2 Selespeed and an Alfa Spider 2.4 JTDM. The former sports 19” alloys with a special chromatic treatment, 8C Red three-layer paintwork and upholstery in Frau hide-coloured ‘pieno fiore’ leather, including the facia and door panels. And the Spider has three-layer White paintwork, 18” spoked alloys treated in a special way, a roll-bar and chromed head-restraint trims, Frau hide-coloured ‘pieno fiore’ leather upholstery (with the same luxurious finish on the facia and panels), and interior trims with exclusive colour combinations and hand-brushed aluminium inserts on the facia, panels and steering wheel.
Alfa 8C Competizione

The undisputed star of the ‘super cars’, the Alfa 8C Competizione is displayed in Geneva with brand-new Black bodywork. This exclusive tourer, produced in a limited series, epitomises the values that have always been a hallmark of Alfa: technology and emotion. The key to Alfa’s revived fortunes, at the Geneva Show, the Alfa 8C Competizione displays the latest refinements to the project that will soon launch the car on markets all over the world, in the hands of 500 carefully selected owners. The reservation and ordering process for this limited series has now concluded, and all the cars have been assigned.
The novelties for the Alfa 159 and Alfa 159 Sportwagon

The 159 saloon and Sportwagon return to Geneva, with a number of novelties in terms of outfits, equipment and engines. To start with, the new TI (Turismo Internazionale) sports versions make their debut. This was the name that Alfa Romeo used in the Seventies to distinguish cars with particularly lavish outfits. Today these two simple but glorious letters reappear on the Alfa 159, and offer equipment that includes a low set-up, exclusive 19” alloys, sideskirts, and sporty instrumentation and interiors. Both cars have three-layer 8C Red paintwork and black leather interiors; the first is a saloon equipped with the 260 bhp 3.2 V6 Q4 engine, while the Sportwagon is powered by the 200 bhp 2.4 JTDM.

The Geneva ‘catwalk’ will also host a 210 bhp Alfa 159 Sportwagon 2.4 JTDM with the Q4 system and a 260 bhp Alfa 159 3.2 V6 Q4 with the 6-speed ‘Q-Tronic’ gearbox, on which the sophisticated Blue&Me<SUP>TM</SUP> Nav system makes its debut, with new telematic services that are accessed by dedicated key: from emergency calls to requests for information of personal interest, but also the offer of insurance policies at advantageous conditions.

The four cars on display obviously present the lavish equipment of the different specifications: from luxurious Poltrona Frau<SUP>®</SUP> ‘pieno fiore’ leather upholstery to a tri-zone climate system, electric seats and Cruise Control, 7 airbags, the VDC system with a Hill holder, parking sensors, a radio navigator with maps and a voice control telephone.
The Alfa GT ‘Black Line’ and Distinctive with the Q2 system

Two Alfa GTs will also be on the stand in Geneva: one equipped with the Q2 system, and the other in the special ‘Black Line’ version that really brings out the model’s unique personality. Created in collaboration with Bertone, the Alfa GT features original styling, lavish accoutrements and exciting performance, embodying a new conception of sportiness which also embraces comfort and elegance. The Alfa GT ‘Black Line’ has ‘Carbon Black’ bodywork and an interior upholstered with two-tone (black and red) leather, and it is equipped with the powerful 165 bhp 2.0 JTS engine and the Selespeed gearbox. The second Alfa GT has ‘Red Alfa’ bodywork and is fitted with the Q2 system and powered by the 1.9 JTDM engine that delivers 150 bhp (110 kW) and peak torque of 305 Nm (31 Kgm), taking the car to a top speed of 209 km/h and accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.2 seconds.

Both cars target a sporty clientele, and they are both distinguished by a number of exclusive elements and features in addition to the standard outfit: 18” alloy wheels (perforated design for the Black Line and spokes for the Q2), front headlights with a black frame, satin-effect painted front grille and chrome-plated wing mirror housings. And inside, black and red leather seats for the Black Line, and black leather with red stitching and a red logo for the Q2. The carpets, mats and gearbox and parking brake gaiters are also black with red stitching. And finally, the two original Alfa GTs on show are very comprehensively equipped, with Xenon headlights, a CD Changer, an audio CD and MP3 file player, and a map radio navigator with a built-in voice control telephone complete with a subscription to info-telematic services.
The Collezione and Q2 versions of the Alfa 147

The Alfa Romeo 147 also fits into this context of styling and technology, and two versions are on show in Geneva. The Q2 version, presented with 8C Red bodywork, has a Torsen<SUP>®</SUP> self-locking front differential (known as the Q2) which offers all the strong points of a front-wheel-drive, increasing the entertainment and sense of control, while guaranteeing certain advantages that are typical of a four-wheel drive. The system is combined exclusively with the 150 bhp JTDM engine, a choice that takes into consideration the current technological scenario where turbodiesels are concerned, and the fact that since 1997, the year that the Alfa 156 JTD made its debut (the first car in the world to feature Common Rail technology), the amount of torque transmitted to the wheels has increased significantly even on compact cars.
To guarantee maximum control and traction in all driving conditions, Alfa Romeo has now developed the sophisticated Q2 system. Externally, the Alfa 147 Q2 stands out for satin-effect whiskers, grille and mirror housings, a rear spoiler, chrome-plated exhaust terminal, low set-up, special 17” wheels and the Q2 logo. The interior is sporty, with red-scale instrumentation and white lighting, seats in sporty black fabric with red stitching, a leather steering wheel with red stitching (like the gear lever and hand brake gaiters), anthracite grey steering wheel trims and central console, and Q2 heel-high strips. Equipment on the Alfa 147 Q2 includes radio controls on the steering wheel, Cruise Control, a trip computer, dual-zone automatic climate control, VDC and 6 airbags. The car on show also has sporty leather seats with red stitching, a Bose<SUP>®</SUP> audio system with subwoofer, a satellite navigator, headlight washers and xenon headlights.

The second Alfa 147 is a 5-door ‘Collezione’ version, with Shell white bodywork combined with an elegant two-tone (black/cream) leather interior and two-tone facia in the same colours. The compact Alfa is powered by a 2-litre petrol engine, and standard equipment includes the most sophisticated safety devices, from VDC to ASR, ABS with EBD and six airbags. The outfit is completed by dual-zone automatic climate control, radio controls on the steering wheel, new 17” spoked alloys, a radio-CD player, Cruise Control, a leather steering wheel and knobs, and electric rear windows. The car on display is also equipped with a map navigator with a built-in hands-free telephone, radio and telephone controls on the steering wheel, an electric sunroof, rear parking sensors, CD changer, Bose<SUP>® </SUP>Hi-Fi system with subwoofer, particulate filter and Xenon headlights with washers.

mikeyb

03-01-2007, 12:25 AM

BMW M5 Touring at Geneva

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BMW at 2007 Geneva International Auto-Salon

BMW is continuing its model offensive. With attractive new features and fascinating technical innovations BMW will be attracting attention on the global car markets in 2007, too.

At the 77th International Auto-Salon in Geneva from the 8th to the 18th March 2007 (press days: 6th / 7th March 2007), visitors will have the opportunity to closely examine a whole range of innovations before the start of production – and in addition – will have a chance to take a look into the future.

BMW is taking advantage of the most important annual motor show on the European continent to launch a variety of world premieres and to present a spectacular concept study.

Furthermore, the latest innovations in the drive and chassis sector as well as advanced driver assistance systems will be exhibited. The current engine range highlights once again the great progress achieved in the area of efficient dynamics which has been BMW’s development focus for a long time. The consistent application of this principle leads to the fact that the new models presented at the international Auto-Salon not only offer the highest level of driving dynamics in their respective competitive class, but also the best fuel consumption and emissions ratings.

The new BMW 5 Series and new BMW 1 Series will be presented to the public for the first time at the International Auto-Salon 2007. With a sophisticated design, an extensively upgraded interior, the innovative advanced driver assistance systems, lane departure warning and active cruise control with a Stop & Go function as well as a thoroughly renewed engine range, the new BMW 5 Series sedan and the BMW 5 Series Touring are also raising the standards once again in their segments. In the case of the new 6-cylinder engines with 2nd-generation direct fuel injection, the effects of applying the efficient dynamics principle become especially apparent.
The BMW 523i and BMW 530i models have both increased output by 10kW combined with considerably lower fuel consumption and 15 percent lower CO2 emissions compared to the respective predecessor model. The new BMW 1 Series, still the only compact model with rear wheel drive, will also be presented in a three-door body variant for the first time.

The new version of the BMW 1 Series combines fascinating driving fun with further improved efficiency and exemplary emissions ratings. Under the hood there are the newly developed 4-cylinder petrol and diesel engines which herald a new dimension of efficient dynamics. In the new, 130 kW BMW 120d, CO2 emissions have been reduced to 129 g/km and in the new 105 kW BMW 118d they have been lowered to only 123 g/km.

In addition, the Auto-Salon in Geneva is also a showplace for the world premiere of the new BMW M5 Touring, which combines superior driving dynamics and the highest level of variability in a unique way.

Besides the new models, a variety of innovations are also in the limelight in Geneva, which give Sheer Driving Pleasure a new character that is quite distinctive. The newly developed 4-cylinder petrol and diesel engines are heralding a new dimension of efficient dynamics. With the active cruise control that includes a Stop & Go function for the new BMW 5 Series, the Rear Vision camera system presented for the first time with the new BMW X5 as well as the chassis systems DynamicDrive and active steering, the BMW Group is also documenting its outstanding innovativeness in Geneva.

mikeyb

03-01-2007, 12:27 AM

Nissan at 2007 Geneva Motor Show

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New European model world premiere

Extensive revisions to 350Z including:
New generation VQ engine
Increase in power and torque
Redesigned bonnet profile
New exterior and interior colours
New tyres for improved refinement Nissan will be unveiling for the first time anywhere in the world a new model which will reinforce the company’s profit and growth aspirations in Europe. Carlos Tavares, Nissan’s Executive Vice President for Corporate Strategy and Product Planning, will present the new model at Nissan’s press conference at 11:15 on Tuesday 6 March (1st press day). No further details will be released until the press conference.
As well as the world premiere, Nissan will also be showing the new, updated 350Z which will reinforce its credentials as a pure sports car with thrilling, involving performance.

With the fitment of the next generation 3.5 V6 engine – engine code VQ35HR – power has risen to 313PS (230kW) at 6800rpm and torque is now rated at 358Nm at 4800rpm, while the maximum engine speed has increased by 500rpm to 7500rpm. Nearly 80% of major engine parts are new, providing improved acceleration and responsiveness.

To achieve the additional performance, a dual intake system has been fitted and the variable valve timing system has a wider range of operation, plus the addition of a common length exhaust manifold reduces back pressure. Those changes combine to boost low and mid-range torque.

In order to achieve the higher rev limit, the crank journal and crank pin have increased in size. At the bottom of the engine, a ladder frame has been added to stiffen the crank and reduce vibration.

The introduction of a second knock sensor, an asymmetric piston pattern, improved cylinder cooling and iridium spark plugs will combine to improve the efficiency of the ignition cycle, while an increase in compression ratio from 10.3 to 10.6 has liberated more top end power. Despite all these changes, weight and fuel consumption remain unchanged, but the engine’s centre of gravity has been lowered by 15mm.

To accommodate the new engine the front bonnet has been discreetly redesigned and is now reminiscent of the original 240Z, thanks to a slightly raised profile, while three new exterior colours will also be offered. Temper Orange is a striking shade but also contains a subtle green “flip” which can be seen in soft light and gives the car a surprising tone, while a new grey – Precision Grey – and Night Blue complete the colour line-up.

Inside, a new trim has also been introduced, which is called Frost Grey. It is a pale tone and adds a touch of sophistication to the car’s interior. As well as a new interior trim colour, another important change to the interior is the fitment of Active Headrests, to minimise the chances of neck injury in the event of a rear impact.

And to improve on-road refinement, the 350Z is now equipped with Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tyres, however grip levels remain unaffected.

mikeyb

03-01-2007, 12:41 AM

Lotus 2-Eleven track car

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For those that feel the wildest Elise Sport and Exige models from Lotus aren't enough, next week at the Geneva Motor Show, Lotus will unveil a new race car called the 2-Eleven. The 1,477lb track special is based on the extruded aluminum chassis of the Elise but with high sides for extra rigidity. The running gear is based on the Exige S and the open-top composite body of the 2-Eleven weighs only 88lbs. The 1.8L four cylinder is supercharged and cranks out 252hp and 179lb-ft of torque.

Lotus will start building 2-Elevens at the Hethel factory in England in April and have a starting price of £39,995. One of the cool things about England is the relaxed regulations for Single Vehicle Type Approval which basically means that British owners can drive almost anything on public roads. The SVA package for the UK including plates, inspection and registration for £1,100. A track-only version for sale in the rest of Europe runs £49,575. The track only version gets an enhanced aerodynamics package and a FIA approved drivers seat. The press release with all the details is after the jump.

[Source: Lotus]

PRESS RELEASE

The Lotus 2-Eleven – Track Day Driving Just Got Serious

Exceptional Performance Coupled with High Levels Of Usability and Safety

Geneva, Switzerland (6th March 2007), Lotus Sport, the race car performance arm of Lotus Cars Ltd, today unveiled the new Lotus 2-Eleven. Launched at the 77th annual Geneva International Motor Show, the Lotus 2-Eleven is aimed at the true track day enthusiast, taking Colin Chapman's philosophy of 'Performance Through Lightweight' to its most extreme level yet.

Weighing in at just 670 kg (1,477 lbs) with 255 PS (252 bhp / 188 kw) on tap courtesy of its supercharged and intercooled 1796 cc engine, the Lotus 2-Eleven boasts a power to weight ratio similar to that of a 1960's Formula One car. Designed with the most serious of track day enthusiasts in mind, the Lotus 2-Eleven offers race car levels of performance coupled with legendary Lotus Ride and Handling to deliver a truly outstanding track day car.

Said Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer for Group Lotus plc:
"The Lotus 2-Eleven takes our core brand values to the extreme. It is the ultimate track day vehicle -not only phenomenally quick, but also very user-friendly. In short, the 2-Eleven delivers everything that the modern track day warrior and clubman racer demands, and more."

Production of the Lotus 2-Eleven is scheduled to commence in April 2007 at the award-winning and world-class Lotus manufacturing facility at Lotus Headquarters in Hethel, Norfolk, UK. The 2-Eleven build will be completed in dedicated Lotus Sport workshops and each vehicle will be given a Lotus Sport build plate.

The Lotus 2-Eleven is initially available in Launch Edition specification only, which boasts a dynamic and unique three-way Lotus Sport colour scheme complete with decal pack. The Launch Edition is available in two versions -Road Going Version (UK Single Vehicle Approval) fitted with front and rear lights, exhaust catalyst, single plane rear wing and other items to achieve compliance with UK road legal requirements and Track Only Version with an enhanced aerodynamics package including high downforce single plane carbon fibre rear wing, high downforce front splitter, brake lights and rear indicators and FIA approved driver's race seat.

The recommended selling price (incl UK VAT) of the Lotus 2-Eleven Launch Edition will be £39,995. In the UK, the SVA version (Single Vehicle Type Approval) which includes delivery, Pre Delivery Inspection, first service, number plates, first registration fee, valet, 12 months' Road Fund Licence, a full tank of fuel and SVA test costs an additional £1,100. The Lotus 2Eleven is only available as a track-only option outside of the UK at £49,575 excluding local tax in mainland Europe. Pricing in Japan, South Africa and Lotus other international markets will be announced shortly.

The Lotus 2-Eleven in more detail
Engine

The supercharged and intercooled 1796 cc engine in the Lotus 2-Eleven has a maximum power output of 255 PS (252 bhp / 188 kw) at 8000 rpm and a torque figure of approximately 242 Nm (179 lb/ft) at 7000 rpm. This significant amount of extra power and torque now available together with the VVTL-i variable cam system ensures that there is a smooth and linear surge of power from low engine speeds all the way to the maximum 8000 rpm. The Roots-type Eaton M62 supercharger (with a sealed-for-life internal mechanism meaning that it does not require the use of the engine's oil) is run from the crankshaft and has an integral bypass valve for part load operation. Four high capacity injectors and an up rated fuel pump add additional fuel under hard acceleration or high speed driving.

An Accusump (engine oil accumulator unit) is included in the whole package as an oil reservoir back-up for extreme track use ensuring that, under those conditions, the engine oil pressure remains constant.

Twin oil coolers complete the powertrain package.

Transmission

A sports-type clutch plate and heavy duty clutch cover transfer the engine power and torque to the lightweight aluminium C64 six-speed gearbox (with an aluminium casing) – with the same perfectly spaced ratios as the Exige S. An open type differential is fitted as standard. The Lotus switchable Traction Control System (LTCS) works through the engine, reducing power to maintain traction; it is active above 8 km/h (5 mph) and reacts much more quickly than many brake-based systems.

Chassis & Integral Safety Features

The Lotus 2-Eleven uses a unique high-sided variant of the Lotus Elise lightweight chassis structure featuring epoxy bonded aluminium alloy extrusions with modified Exige S based running gear. This strong and stiff package features a comprehensive safety system with a glass fibre reinforced composite front crash structure allied to a high sill chassis for side impact protection. Additional chassis safety features include an FIA compliant 6-point rollover structure with integral harness mounts and lightweight galvanized steel rear sub frame incorporating a further crushable structure.

Body

The Lotus 2-Eleven features all new ultra-lightweight (40 kg / 88 lbs) composite bodywork featuring core-mat technology. All external panels are bolted on for ease of removal, maintenance and repair.

Wheels & Tyres

5-spoke lightweight forged black alloy wheels (front 7Jx16, rear 8J x 17) are shod with Lotus Sport specific Yokohama A048 R LTS tyres (front 195/50 R16, rear 225/45 R17), designed to maximise grip and achieve the exacting ride and handling targets set by Lotus.

Brakes

The brake system includes 288 mm cast iron cross drilled and ventilated discs, upgraded Pagid RS14 sports brake pads set into the brake calipers (aluminium alloy AP Racing 2-piston at the front and Brembo single sliding piston at the rear), high grade silicone brake fluid and stainless steel braided hoses. In addition, the proven Lotus track tuned servo-assisted four-channel ABS system enhances braking performance and minimises stopping distance without taking over from the skill of the driver.

Suspension

Fully independent suspension utilising unequal length wishbones; Öhlins 2-way adjustable dampers with coil over springs and Lotus Sport adjustable front anti-roll bar. A rear double shear track control arm brace is provided to cope with the expected kerb abuse during heavy track day driving, with unique steering arms and front upper wishbones to suit ultra-low ride height.

Performance
0-60 mph 3.8 secs (estimated)
0-100 km/h 3.9 secs (estimated)
0-100 mph 9.1 secs (estimated)
(0-160 km/h)
Max Speed 155 mph (250 km/h)
Max Power 255 PS (252 bhp / 188 kw) at 8000 rpm
Max Torque 242 Nm (179 lb/ft) at 7000 rpm

Notes:
Lotus Sport

Lotus Sport is the race car performance arm of Lotus Cars Ltd and is located at the Norfolk Headquarters next to the famous Hethel test track. The department designs and builds extreme performance road cars, track and race cars as well as offering a performance parts service and bespoke driver training packages.

Group Lotus plc

The main operating subsidiary of Group Lotus plc is Lotus Cars Ltd, which has two operating divisions – Lotus Engineering and Lotus Cars. Lotus Engineering is an internationally recognised automotive engineering consultancy based in Norfolk, UK. Its global facilities include those in Michigan, USA and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and offices in Germany and China. Lotus Engineering provides comprehensive and versatile consultancy services to many of the world's OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, offering a full engineering service from initial concept and project design through development and integration of the complete vehicle to meet all worldwide markets and customers to full production. This includes third party 'niche vehicle' engineering and manufacture worldwide. Lotus Cars builds and sells Lotus sports cars, Elise, Exige and Europa for global sale and manufactures the advanced composite front and rear crash structures for the Aston Martin V12 Vanquish.

Donas64

03-01-2007, 01:02 AM

Sweet mother of hot track cars!!! (omg)

mikeyb

03-01-2007, 11:34 AM

EDAG LUV Concept

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Maritime Flair for the Road

“Cast off!” The new concept car from EDAG Engineering + Design AG will be making its first appearance on March 6, 2007, in Geneva – the “EDAG LUV”. The design concept of the “LUV” is based on an luxury-class SUV and incorporates a maritime look from bow to stern: oiled teakwood on the hood, as the flooring on the interior, and on the elegant cargo area conveys a maritime flair. But the “EDAG LUV” is a real eye-catcher in other respects as well: the cargo area, behind the two rows of seats with plenty of room for 5 passengers, has been outfitted with teakwood and distinctly resembles a quarterdeck – in keeping with the maritime look of the concept car.
The Module Concept of the “EDAG LUV” – An Economical Approach to Vehicle Derivatives

But the maritime design of the “EDAG LUV” is just the covering for a modular concept which makes it possible to turn vehicles into derivatives or niche vehicles at reasonable expenditures of time and money.
In coming up with their shell concept, the EDAG team of engineers, headed by project manager Andreas Funk, set themselves the goal of using the greatest possible number of carry-over parts.

The group can certainly be proud of the results of the intelligent module concept: 90% of the parts required to perform the metamorphosis of a luxury-class SUV into the “EDAG LUV” come off the parts shelf of the basic vehicle. For example, the extension of the floor pan by 512 mm was realized using original parts. The wheelhouses were also used without any modifications, as were the parts for the rear-end finish, which includes integration of the standard power-lift system from the sedan.
“In addition to our efforts to use a maximum number of identical parts, we were especially careful to keep the existing production concept of the basic vehicle in mind during the development of the ‘EDAG LUV’,” explains Andreas Funk. “The self-supporting body can be completely welded using standard tongs. It goes without saying that we used simulation models during the development of the entire body concept to test crash behavior and rigidity so that we could guarantee the highest level of quality and safety.”

The advantages of the EDAG module concept are obvious. Thanks to the use of identical parts and taking into account the production concept, a vehicle concept which is visually completely new can be realized under economically interesting conditions.

“More and more end customers are asking for niche vehicles, and this type of design turns the production of such cars into a ‘business case’ for the manufacturers,” points out Johannes Barckmann, Head of Design at EDAG, in describing the concept.
The “EDAG LUV” – A New Vehicle Segment

“LUV”, the name of the concept car, is not only a term used by sailors (it is German for “luff”, the windward side of a vessel), but also defines a new vehicle segment – the luxury utility vehicle.

“In taking the maritime world as a leitmotif for the design of the ‘EDAG LUV’, we deliberately selected a niche theme. We wanted to demonstrate in exemplary fashion that it is possible to create a distinctive vehicle class and not only to give a vehicle a new look. And to do that with as little technical effort as possible,” is how Johannes Barckmann explains the intentions behind the design concept. So the cargo area of the “EDAG LUV” is elegantly tied in with the passenger cell by the harmonious lines of the body design. The utility vehicle character so often evident in pick-up models is no longer discernible in the “EDAG LUV”. On the contrary, the “EDAG LUV” radiates elegance and autonomy and cannot be classified by any of the vehicle segments existing today.

Yet the luxury image which has been created is only one example for the idea of a versatile vehicle concept. Speaking of versatile: the pick-up module can be exchanged for a convertible or coupe module simply by releasing a catch mechanism integrated into the body of the “EDAG LUV”. A clever move by the EDAG developers so that additional derivative variants can be realized flexibly and at low cost.
Innovation in the Interior – The PC Takes Its Place in the Vehicle

The “EDAG LUV” has innovative solutions on the inside as well. The EDAG development team has integrated two UMPCs (UltraMobile PCs) into the headrests, bringing the PC world into the vehicle. The user can use a specially developed mechanism to insert the fully operational PCs easily into the headrests. Passengers in the rear seat can use their Office applications such as PowerPoint, Excel, and Word in the vehicle, plus WLAN and UMTS provide them with Internet access, enabling them to download and answer their e-mails during the trip. Furthermore, integrated Webcams even make it possible to hold Net meetings during the trip. Users can also access their music or DVD collection from the car. The trick: The UMPCs are connected to the vehicle’s audio system so that the MP3 files or videos stored on the computer can also be used in the vehicle. The integration of the computer keyboards into the interior of the “EDAG LUV” has also been handled elegantly: modern form-fitting foil keyboards have been embedded in the folding tables available for use by rear-seat passengers. Background lighting makes it possible to work even while traveling at night and is yet another futuristic design element in the interior.

“The integration of so-called consumer devices into the vehicle architecture is a highly interesting topic for the manufacturers. This can result in a genuine additional value for the end customers by making the functionality of the PC world usable in the vehicle as well,” notes Dr. Robert Hentschel, Director of EDAG Electrics/Electronics.
“Being a full-range developer of vehicles and an integrator in the field of electrics/electronics, we are determined to develop solutions in this area which are stylish, geometrically and functionally high-quality, and practical."
EDAG is currently pursuing two solution approaches:

A second integration stage will tie the UMPCs into the vehicle architecture for luxury-class vehicles. The advantage: the driver can use operating elements – e.g., on the steering wheel – to access directly the functions or data of the UMPC.
The EDAG developers are planning the UMPC as an after-market product for compact and midsize cars. The aim here is to develop concepts for various models produced by car-makers so that the devices can be integrated ergonomically and geometrically into the interior without a jarring visual effect. What makes this especially enticing is the possibility of utilizing the UMPC as an on-board computer and high-quality display device by connecting it to the vehicle architecture, providing yet another service, as well as making the complete functionality of a PC available in the car.With this as a goal, EDAG is working closely with the Intel Corporation on the development of solutions for the electrical and electronic connection as well as on the integration of “nomadic devices” in the vehicle interior. EDAG will rely on the latest in Intel technology, processors, and chip sets. Especially small dimensions for the chips and low energy consumption are only some of the criteria for their use in cars.
The Company is planning to present the “EDAG LUV” at the upcoming IAA in Frankfurt in the second integration stage, i.e., with access to the UMPCs via operating elements of the car.
Innovative Development Competence by EDAG

EDAG will be presenting the “EDAG LUV” in Geneva as proof of its competence, underscoring the capabilities of the world’s largest independent development partner to develop economically sound innovative vehicle concepts optimized for production. The project has been realized in only three months, from definition of the concept and design process to the development to the ready-to-roll prototypes, and is on the verge of being realized as a Premium Edition.

BRABUS is one of the partners in this project. The tuner from Bottrop contributed not only the 462 hp / 340 kW high-performance BRABUS 6.1 displacement engine for the EDAG LUV that allows this all-wheel-drive vehicle to accelerate to 100 km/h in a little more than six seconds for a speed of 250 km/h.

BRABUS also provides the classy 10Jx22 monoblock S wheels fitted with 295/35 ZR 22 YOKOHAMA tires, the air suspension module as well as the high-performance brake system from its product line-up. The 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers and ventilated, perforated 380 x 36 millimeter front brake disks and the 6-piston fixed calipers and 355 x 28 mm rear brake disks reach a braking performance typically achieved only by genuine sports cars.

Exclusive all-leather appointments and attractive interior accessories are an additional BRABUS specialty. The BRABUS saddlery combined the finest white leather with black seams and cords for a superior interior finish of the EDAG LUV that leaves nothing to be desired.

Donas64

03-01-2007, 12:18 PM

Truly a land yacht

mikeyb

03-01-2007, 02:40 PM

9-5 BioPower by Rinspeed

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The Saab 9-5 by Rinspeed has just been covered in a Saab Switzerland press release. Here's my slightly liberal translation along with a truckload of pictures after the jump.
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A principal topic at the Geneva Motor Show this year will be the auto industry leading by example in respecting the environment. Saab, in collaboration with Rinspeed, will be showing with the "9-5 BioPower Rinspeed" how vision and reality can harmonize.
The model is equipped with a bioethanol engine and proves that it is possible in today's world to considerably reduce fossil CO2 emissions without giving up the pleasure of driving.
Recent reports with regard to climate change are clear: mankind, by it's collective behavoiur, is a primary contributor to global warming. The reduction of CO2 emissions has become a central topic around the world - as it is at the Geneva Motor Show.
The notion of care and respect for the environment is not one that is just for the future, nor has it been for a long time now. At previous motor shows, Saab has proven it's leadership in this field and shown with its BioPower concepts that ecological technology and driving pleasure could coincide perfectly.
This year, Saab will cross a new threshold at the Geneva Motor Show. The visitors can come to stand 5030 and admire a perfectly successful union of vision and reality - the "Saab 9-5 BioPower Rinspeed".
The altered Saab BioPower immediately attracts the glare of visitors thanks to the glare of its yellow gloss paint. This special lowered Saab model incorporates materials used by Rinspeed for its futuristic prototype "eXasis". (eXasis is the first transparent plastic car of high technology that is equipped, just like Saab BioPower, with an E85 engine).
The Saab BioPower Rinspeed shows new applications in the shape of rhombuses out of fibreglass metallized to aluminium. One finds the reason for the rhombuses in the coating of the seats. The interior also shows the innovative aspect of the car with seats padded with a compound called Technogel.
Yellow safety belts and a new fibreglass dashboard complete the metamorphosis of the Saab BioPower to perfection.
The Saab BioPower by Rinspeed and the eXasis are both studies to celebrate the 30th birthday of the company. With the eXasis, Rinspeed presents a car able to develop 150hp with using an ethanol engine. The parallel Saab BioPower, sporting 180hp led the two company's traditionalists to cooperate.
Saab also celebrates a birthday in 2007 - 60 years of turbocharged ideas. To this occasion, Saab will launch the special "Anniversary Edition" models. However, it is the move towards ecological vehicles that will be maintained henceforth.
Saab will present the 9-3 BioPower in a world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show. It will be available in Switzerland starting from autumn 2007 and will compliment the Saab 9-5 BioPower. Saab wants to continue its idea to reduce the CO2 emissions on its cars right through the range.
With the "Saab 9-5 BioPower100 Concept", Saab presents at the Motor-show a vehicle that can function with 100% bioethanol. Saab continues its philosophy thus to put mankind and the environment at the center of its activities.

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This is the eXasis vehicle they're talking about, along with the 9-5 BioPower.
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A bunch of photos to see after the jump...
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Kansei

03-01-2007, 02:41 PM

all sorts of weird textures on that saab.. definitely different!

mikeyb

03-01-2007, 02:44 PM

all sorts of weird textures on that saab.. definitely different!

No kidding, but it looks hot. Me and my sportwagon fetish. I'm in love with the rims.

mikeyb

03-01-2007, 04:12 PM

MINI Cooper S John Cooper Works Tuning Kit

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PRESS RELEASE:

Get the Racing Feeling: John the Cooper Works Tuning kit for the new MINI Cooper S.

The International Automobile Salon in Geneva (March 8th - 18th 2007) is the setting for the world premiere of the John Cooper Works Tuning Kit for the MINI Cooper S. From mid-2007, what is already the most powerful version of the compact premium model will be given an additional power boost under its bonnet. With the John Cooper Works Tuning Kit for the MINI Cooper S, the output of the 1.6 litre twin scroll turbo engine is increased to an impressive 141 kW/192 bhp, with maximum torque up to 250 Newton metres in the engine speed range between 1,750 and 5,000 rpm. With the overboost function, the torque level can even be increased temporarily to 270 Nm for powerful acceleration in the engine speed range from 1,750 to 4,500 rpm.

And the MINI brand has even more John Cooper Works components on offer for fans of the new MINI Cooper S - enough to quicken the pulse and put motor racing passion into everyday driving. These include a sports chassis, perforated brake discs for the front axle of the MINI Cooper S and 18-inch light alloy wheels. These options can be ideally combined with numerous other features from the John Cooper Works accessory range which equally enhance the car's sporting spirit: with the aerodynamics packages in body colour, the John Cooper Works sports seats, the John Cooper Works sports steering wheel and selected equipment components made of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic. Not only is the dynamic potential of the new MINI Cooper S increased but also its charismatic sporty appeal.

Racing expertise for more fun in everyday driving.

The John Cooper Works Tuning Kit for the MINI Cooper S includes components whose development is derived directly from expertise gained from motor racing. This most powerful version of the new MINI thus carries on a tradition which dates back to the legendary racing success of MINI and John Cooper Works in the sixties. The John Cooper Works Tuning Kit for the MINI Cooper S consists of a sports exhaust system, a sports air filter and an electronic engine management system optimised for greater power efficiency. The resulting package fires the MINI Cooper S to new performance peaks and even greater driving fun.

Perfect look for a sports vehicle.

And the sporty look of the new MINI Cooper S can be further refined with the appropriate ingredients from the John Cooper Works collection. The sports suspension not only ensures even more agile handling but also lowers the suspension by 10 millimetres. In keeping with this, John Cooper Works provides an aerodynamic body kit in body colour - consisting of a front and rear apron and side sills - as well as several versions of 18-inch light allow wheels. The "Double Spoke" design has a particularly agile look and is new for 2007. The largest wheel authorised for the new MINI (dimensions 7J x 18) has low-section tyres sized 205/40/18 with runflat properties.

The perforated brake discs are also borrowed from classic racing technology. And finally, numerous equipment components in carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic give the MINI a new visual kick. The high-tech Formula 1 material is used for John Cooper Works trim panels for the front air inlet, exterior mirrors and tailgate handle - not made exclusively for the MINI Cooper S but also available for other model variations of the new MINI generation.

The new MINI: individuality is the key focus.

A John Cooper Works roof spoiler with carbon spoiler is also available for the new MINI. John Cooper Works leaves its mark in the interior of this racy little car, too: the John Cooper sports seat (ED: not available for the US market) provides an attractive appearance and optimised lateral holding for dynamic travel. And if you want to be absolutely sure of having a good grip on the new MINI at all times, you will opt for the John Cooper Works sports steering wheel. It is optionally available with a cover in leather or Alcantara - a stylish touch of individual flair!

Alternatively, the Original MINI accessory range offers a single-section roof spoiler which can be finished in body colour. Even greater individuality is provided by additional headlamps, illuminated entry sills with free choice of lettering and a wide range of roof decor variations. In addition to the popular motives "Union Jack" and "Chequered Flag" - which are also available for the mirror covers and door handle trim elements - the roof of the MINI can also be decorated with the MINI lettering or even the markings for a helicopter landing spot ("Heliport" motif).

The Original MINI accessory programme also offers MINI fans the opportunity to increase the comfort and functionality of their vehicle. The MINI interface for integration of Apple iPod models means you have just the music selection you want as you drive. MINI-specific roof and rear carrier systems enable the safe transport of bicycles, skis, snowboards or roof boxes. The especially useful options also include high-quality textile floor mats, a rear protective cover, a luggage compartment tub and folding sun blinds. No matter whether sporty or practical: thanks to the extraordinary variety of the individualisation options available, every MINI is one thing above all else: unique.

mikeyb

03-02-2007, 12:36 PM

http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/03/carscoop_monotracer_0.jpg

The Peraves MonoTraceris a two seat, fully enclosed body sport bike with a difference. According the press materials, even though the tires are rated for a lean angle of up to 55 degrees, only twenty percent ever exceed 40 degrees and only five exceed 45 degrees. The MonoTracer is equipped with two automatically retractable stabilizer wheels that allow the machine to safely lean up to 52 degrees.

The MonoTracer is powered by a BMW K1200 four cylinder engine and has Recaro seats with three point belts. How many Ducatis can say that? The body work definitely has something of an Audi R8 feel to it as well, particularly the contrasting gray side panels and the profile of the back end. At 52,500 Euro, it sure isn't cheap, but it is unusual.

http://www.monotracer.com/

Now this is really cool!

Kansei

03-02-2007, 12:46 PM

haha the MonoTraceris SOOOO copied the Audi R8 blades on the sides.

wow though.. is that a 2-seater? I want it.. a lot. sucks that if you get hit from the side and any body panel crushed more than like 0.2mm you get crushed though :D

mikeyb

03-02-2007, 02:52 PM

Fisker Artega GT

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Former Rolls Royce boss Klaus Dieter Frers and a team of auto-industry experts have developed the new Artega GT Coupe. The car, which will be officially unveiled at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show, is roughly the same size as Volkswagen’s small Polo hatch. It measures just 3.95m in length and 1.87m wide, and with a height of only 1.18m, is no taller than a Lamborghini Gallardo.
The car’s lines were penned by none other than former Aston Martin designer, Henrik Fisker, while its running gear was developed by former Porsche technical designer Hardy Essig. Under the hood is a 3.6L V6 engine borrowed from Volkswagen that develops 300hp, enough to propel the Artega to its 270km/h top speed. Production will start in November this year at a plant in Delbrueck, Germany, with sales expected to begin in the middle of next year.
The creators hope to sell the car in markets as diverse as the US, Eastern Europe, Japan, Asia and in the Middle East, however, sales will be limited to Germany initially. Only 500 units will be constructed per year, and according to Auto Motor und Sport, (http://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/news/auto_-_produkte/hxcms_article_502289_14097.hbs) it should sell for roughly €75,000.

mikeyb

03-03-2007, 11:59 AM

Koenigsegg CCGT and CCXR Revealed

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CCGT
DOWN TUNED TO 600+ HP in order to comply with race regulations.
Koenigsegg has created a new race car - the CCGT, based on the production CC-model range. The CCGT complies with the ACO and FIA GT1 regulations.

The CCGT engine is based on the Koenigsegg CCX production engine with the superchargers removed but enlarged to 5.0 litre.

The reliability of the race engine is expected be exceptional as it is based on the proven strength and durability of the significantly more powerful road car engine.

The minimum weight allowed for a GTI race car is 1,100 kg and most manufacturers struggle to meet this target, having to undergo massive weight saving programs.

Due to the fact the Koenigsegg CC cars are very light and stiff in road configuration, the racing CCGT weighs in at just under an astounding 1,000 kg. This gives the possibility to place 100 kg of ballast freely within the car structure, still following the set rules. This should give Koenigsegg an interesting advantage over the competition.

The CCGT has very short overhangs, which could be seen as an issue when it comes to generating enough downforce. However, by further developing the clever and “slippery” design concept of the CC range, Koenigsegg believes they have created a unique package incorporating a surprising amount of down-force combined with a very compact package and optimal weight distribution. Since the CCGT has a short overall length and low overall height, whilst still maintaining adequate track width and length, it is thereby gifted with superior agility compared to most of the competition, which should be evident in future heated racing combats.

The Koenigsegg CCGT development team, headed by Dag Bölenius, has done a superb job by refining the CC into the CCGT.

The race engine is being developed in-house in parallel with the production units by Koenigsegg engineers, supported by Anders Hoglund from Cargine engineering and JP Motorsport.

CCXR
Flower Power
When thinking about supercars, one of the last things that spring to mind are their environmental friendliness.

Even though the very low and exclusive production volume of Koenigsegg can hardly be considered to have a measurable impact on the Co2 problem that global society is facing, it is an impressive statement that even a small and extreme company like Koenigsegg can afford to develop environmentally focused solutions.

By following conscientious and forward thinking strategies, Koenigsegg has managed to create the Bio Fuel Powered CCXR - environmentally friendly 1200 with even more spectacular performance than the standard CCX.

These two almost conflicting results are made possible due to the simple fact that the ethanol in biofuel has the positive side effect of cooling the combustion chambers, as well as a higher octane value, well over 100 RON, which gives the high power. Due to the fact that the biofuel has higher octane and cooling characteristics, the power has gone up to 1018 hp at 7200 rpm and the torque to 1060 nm at 6100 rpm.

It is natural to expect a substantial gain in power when optimizing the engine for E85(biofuel) instead of Petrol. Still the actual gain obtained even surprised the enthusiastic engineers at Koenigsegg.

Following the long term strategy of Koenigsegg, all previous CCXs will have the possibility to be converted by the factory to accept the biofuel option and reap the performance and environmental benefits of this wonderful and eco-friendly fuel.

The CCXR Biofuel upgrade has been developed in-house on the factory’s engine dyno by the skilled technicians at Koenigsegg, led by Christian Koenigsegg, Marco Garver and Anders Hoglund from the Koenigsegg partner company Cargine Engineering.

Curiously enough the CCXR is the first homologated car currently in production to reach over 1000 BHP.

CCX
Updates for 2007
A new and revolutionary instrument cluster with intuitive display of all important information. The New Koenigsegg Chronograph Direct Focus Instrument Cluster - envisioned by Christian v. Koenigsegg & engineered in-house by the Koenigsegg Engineering Team.

Key Features:

New Revolutionary Design - Patent Pending
One single focus to read the most critical data; RPM, Oil pressure, Speed and Boost
No need to re-focus. The driver’s eyes can be back on the road at least 50% faster compared to traditional dials or LCD readouts, without the utilization of the sometimes disturbing pop- up windscreen displays.
The main instrument can help visualize the gear ratios and the influence of boost pressure on the RPM advance, as well as velocity and oil pressure
The most intriguing feature of the new instrument cluster is the Patent Pending tri-axial 3D three pointer layout. With this layout the relations between the velocity, engine speed and boost pressure become instantly clear in an unprecedented fashion. The driver can easily pick up on gear ratios and boost pressure enhanced acceleration through the gears.

As the driver become accustomed to this new concept, he will find that during spirited driving there is no need to look at the actual numbers on the dials, but at the relationship and angles between the needles and how they interact with each other, since they all pivot from the same point, similarly to a traditional timepiece. Due to this the driver can re-direct focus from the instrumentation to the road ahead at least 50% faster compared to traditional systems.

Furthermore, this is the first instrumentation in a road car that can actually describe the gear ratios in a comprehensible fashion.

The instrument cluster displays a large amount of understandable information in a small area without the need for menus or the flicking of buttons. The dials use a non-refl ective high contrast surface with innovative illumination and fluorescent style needles, a combination often found in aircraft, again for maximum clarity.

With the logical grouping of information in the central cluster, the driver will fi nd fast moving, primary inter-related data in a fixed pattern. The left satellite shows the slow moving needles, such as temperatures and fluid levels.

In the right satellite, the driver finds the distance traveled and a vital and clearly stated fuel pressure dial in solitude.

The warning lights are located in related groups and are only visible when activated, as they otherwise are hidden behind aluminum tinting that matches the billet machined anodized instrument housing.

The design is pure and clean Scandinavian, based on the now famous Koenigsegg circular interior features in combination with exclusive materials.

New bespoke billet aluminum uprights, offering reduced un-sprung weight and increased stiffness.

Traction control is now standard and works extremely well even in the snow or very wet conditions with it’s high performance settings.

Aluminum door hinges have been implemented for further weight saving.

A new ICE-Pod system. Integrated In Car Entertainment Ipod® system. Through the one cable connector to the car, the I-pod is also hooked up to a radio antenna in the car and fully controls RDS radio function directly from the I-Pod. Even though there is only one cable going to the I-pod, it is also being charged by the car at all times.

No normal car stereo functions are missing even considering the very compact format of the I-pod.

Basically there is no need for any other control unit in the car, all functions are directly controlled through the I-pod.

Koenigsegg believes this new way of utilizing the I-pod, will make normal car stereo head units obsolete in most application.

By combining the latest Ipod® technology with a state of the art lightweight carbon fibre trimmed amplifier built by Genesis in England, Koenigsegg has taken the next step in Supercar ICE system design. A side from the improved functionality and significant weight savings, there is also a practical glove-box installed where the traditional unit used to reside and the interior is now even cleaner and more elegant looking.

mikeyb

03-03-2007, 12:03 PM

Opel Gran Turismo Coupe Concept

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Not much info about it yet but as far as we know the power comes from a 6 cylinder engine (probably the V6 from the Vectra OPC), it has a 6-speed manual and 20 inch wheels. It has a parking assist system similar to the one used on the new C4 Picasso, an internal hardrive for the sat nav and the sound system, automatic parking brake and some sort of adaptative cruice control. Its expected to be RWD and show the lines for future Opel models, specially the next Vectra.

mikeyb

03-03-2007, 12:13 PM

^^^ A glimpse of the next Holden Monaro or Saturn sportscoupe or Pontiac GTO? This is awesome!!!

Kansei

03-03-2007, 12:17 PM

Wow that's a pretty exciting coupe right there. Opel has a great design team, though of course not as good as Mazdas :D

mikeyb

03-03-2007, 12:29 PM

Wow that's a pretty exciting coupe right there. Opel has a great design team, though of course not as good as Mazdas :D

Its really exciting! Now the General needs to badge this as a Saturn here.

Kansei

03-03-2007, 12:39 PM

Its really exciting! Now the General needs to kill Saturn and just start selling Opels here.

*fixed

I just can't ignore the stigma associated with the Saturn brand name.

mikeyb

03-03-2007, 12:47 PM

*fixed

I just can't ignore the stigma associated with the Saturn brand name.

LOL... GM is trying to change the stigma of the Saturn brand. Its becoming very Euro.

mikeyb

03-03-2007, 12:56 PM

Saab BioPower 100 Concept

http://motorauthority.com/wp-content/uploads/Saab/Odds/X07SB_N5047.jpg

Saab has been a big supporter of E85 vehicles in recent years and will be taking the next step to E100 in its new Biopower 100 Concept destined for the Geneva Motor Show. The concept showcases the first production-based engine to be optimized for pure bioethanol (E100) fuel.
The optimized 2.0L engine from the 9-5 develops 300hp of power thanks to the high octane of E100 fuel. That exceptionally high specific power output of 150hp/L demonstrates scope for future ‘rightsizing’, using smaller, high output engines that also deliver energy savings. The engine also develops 295lb. ft. of torque, which helps to propel it from zero to 62 mph acceleration in just 6.6 seconds and 50 – 75 mph (fifth gear) in only 8.2 seconds. The use of Ethanol and Ethanol blend fuel is still being debated in many countries, but it’s good to know we’ll still be able to get high-performance engines either way. We just wish Saab would repackage the concept in a nicer exterior, like the stunning Aero-X concept.

Kansei

03-03-2007, 12:59 PM

E100.. so does it still take like 3 gallons of diesel fuel to produce 1 gallon of ethanol?

mikeyb

03-03-2007, 01:20 PM

Zagato shows Diatto Ottovu

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Italian coachbuilder Zagato has released a trio of photos of its latest creation, the Diatto Ottovu, a little over a week before the car is set to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show.

Powering the aluminum-bodied Diatto will be a 4.6-liter V-8 that has been modified for the Diatto by Roush to output over 500 horsepower, likely through the use of a supercharger. Earlier rumors claimed that the engine would be Maserati-sourced, but Maserati does not have a 4.6-liter V-8 and the involment of Roush in the project leads us to believe that the engine may well be a variant of the one seen under the hood of a Ford Mustang GT.

mikeyb

03-05-2007, 11:40 AM

All New Volvo XC70

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Donas64

03-05-2007, 12:09 PM

Is that Zagato a rebodied TVR?

mikeyb

03-05-2007, 06:17 PM

Is that Zagato a rebodied TVR?

I was wondering the samething but I do not think it is not based on a TVR.

mikeyb

03-05-2007, 06:19 PM

Lotus unleashes Exige GT3 Concept

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Lotus Launches the Exige GT3 Concept Road Vehicle
UNLEASHED! The Most Extreme Exige Variant To-date

Geneva, Switzerland (6th March 2007), Lotus Sport, the race car
performance arm of Lotus Cars Ltd, today unveiled the Lotus Exige GT3
concept road vehicle. With its debut at the 77th annual Geneva
International Motor Show, the 275 PS (271 bhp / 203 kW) Exige GT3 is a bold,
no-holds-barred, lap record-breaking, breathtaking performance machine that
embraces all that is expected of a race-bred Lotus.

Building on the Lotus racing pedigree, this concept car can deliver
more grin-factor than ever before; there are no intended compromises and no
limits except those that are self imposed by the driver.

This is one concept that commands your full attention.

Said Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer for Group Lotus plc:
"The Exige GT3 concept road car is a fantastic showcase product from
our race car performance division, Lotus Sport. The car's racing background
becomes immediately obvious from its aggressive stance, extreme width of
rear track and innovative three-dimensional rear wing. The foundation of
all Lotus products is phenomenal handling and ride characteristics, but the
Exige GT3 takes these into another dimension altogether where supreme road
holding and outrageous acceleration come evenly matched with sensational
stopping ability."

The Exige GT3's pure bred racing brother will be again competing in
the GT race arena in 2007, taking over the mantle from the hugely successful
2006 British GT3 Championship-winning car. On road or track the Lotus Exige
GT3 winning pedigree will continue in time honoured Lotus racing tradition.

A new one-piece front clam-shell with fully masked front wheels and
wheel arch venting leads the aerodynamically cleaned silhouette of this car.
A menacing stance is enhanced by the aggressively flared rear wheel arches
and aero-efficient three-dimensional rear wing and blended end-plates. The
visual message is clear; this vehicle means business and the squat wide
hindquarters symbolise the latent power harnessed within.

That power is provided by the same charge-cooled supercharged engine
that the GT3 race car employs, producing 275PS (271bhp / 203kw) driven
through ten inch rear wheels with 255 width tyres making the final
connection to the road. Max speed (257kph / 160mph) and peak torque have
been electronically limited but acceleration is left untouched and
unimpaired. The up-rated front brakes and brake pads all round ensure that
on road or track this car's stopping ability is more than capable of
harnessing its acceleration performance.

The end-plate mounted three-dimensional rear wing is highly
efficient and fully complements the widened and flattened rear deck shape in
reducing the overall drag as well as maintaining front to rear downforce
balance. The performance of this car will amaze and reward all drivers with
incredible road holding (developed with the help of its 2-way Ohlins
adjustable dampers together with Lotus Sport adjustable front stabiliser bar
and rear suspension double-shear track control arms) and stunning
acceleration.

Simply put, the Lotus Exige GT3 will redefine your concept of a road
car by re-affirming that unique proposition that is, above all else, a
Lotus.

It is intended that the Lotus Exige GT3 concept road vehicle will be
further developed into a full production car for limited markets, to go on
sale in late 2007 with an estimated price tag of between £50,000 and
£60,000.

The Lotus GT3 in more detail

Engine
The supercharged and intercooled 1796 cc engine in the Lotus GT3 has
a maximum power output of 275 PS (271 bhp / 203 kw) at 8000 rpm and a torque
figure of approximately 258 Nm (190 lb/ft) at 7000 rpm. This significant
amount of extra power and torque now available together with the VVTL-i
variable cam system ensures that there is a smooth and linear surge of power
from low engine speeds all the way to the maximum 8000 rpm. The Roots-type
Eaton M62 supercharger (with a sealed-for-life internal mechanism meaning
that it does not require the use of the engine's oil) is run from the
crankshaft and has an integral bypass valve for part load operation. Four
high capacity injectors and an up rated fuel pump add additional fuel under
hard acceleration or high speed driving.

An Accusump (engine oil accumulator unit) is included in the whole
package as an oil reservoir back-up for extreme track use ensuring that,
under those conditions, the engine oil pressure remains constant.
Twin oil coolers complete the powertrain package.

Transmission
A sports-type clutch plate and heavy duty clutch cover transfer the
engine power and torque to the lightweight aluminium C64 six-speed gearbox -
with the same perfectly spaced ratios as the Exige S. An open type limited
slip differential is fitted as standard. The Lotus switchable traction
control system (LTCS) works through the engine, reducing power to maintain
traction; it is active above 8 kph (5 mph) and reacts much more quickly than
many brake-based systems.

Chassis Structure
Lotus designed lightweight structure of epoxy bonded aluminium alloy
extrusions with crash structure, extruded aluminium door beams, integral
steel seat-belt support structure and lightweight galvanized steel rear sub
frame incorporating a structural shear panel.

Body
GT3 derived one-piece front clamshell and wide track rear clamshell
with full length roof scoop design taken from the Cup Exige 255. New full
width rear wing with integral end plates mounting to rear clam. Race style
full width front splitter; standard Exige door and body sides retained.
Multi element rear diffuser with carbon option.

Wheels & Tyres
5-spoke lightweight forged alloy wheels (front 7Jx16 and rear
10Jx17) are shod with Lotus Sport specific Yokohama A048 R LTS tyres (front
195/50 R16 and rear 255/40 R17), designed to maximise grip and achieve the
ride and handling targets set by Lotus.

Brakes
The brake system includes 308 mm diameter 2 piece aluminium belled
cross drilled and ventilated front discs and 288 mm diameter cross-drilled
and ventilated rear discs. AP Racing two-piece radially mounted 4 piston
calipers at the front and Brembo single sliding piston at the rear. Pagid
RS14 sports brake pads all round. High grade silicone brake fluid;
stainless steel braided brake hoses. In addition, the proven Lotus track
tuned servo-assisted four-channel ABS system enhances braking performance
and minimises stopping distance without taking over from the skill of the
driver.

Suspension
Fully independent suspension utilising unequal length wishbones;
Öhlins 2-way adjustable dampers with coil over springs and Lotus Sport
adjustable front anti-roll bar. A rear double shear track control arm brace
is provided to cope with the expected kerb abuse during heavy track day
driving.

Performance
0-60 mph 3.9 secs (estimated)
0-100 km/h 4.0 secs (estimated)
0-100 mph 9.8 secs (estimated)
(0-160 km/h)
Maximum Speed 160 mph (257 km/h) - electronically limited
Max Power 275 PS (271 bhp / 203 kw) at 8000 rpm
Max Torque 258 Nm (190 lb/ft) at 7000 rpm

Kansei

03-05-2007, 06:21 PM

Hmm the new XC70 from the first pics looks 100% SUV, which would put it right up against the XC90, just a little smaller. The latter pics sorta make it look like the normal wagons just taller. I guess I'll have to wait until I see one in person.

mikeyb

03-06-2007, 12:23 PM

Toyota Hybrid X Concept

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New design language for future hybrid models
Four door, four seat open-space concept
Interactive interior design
A step closer to zero emissions

Toyota presents a world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show with the reveal of Hybrid X – a concept car that proposes a new design language for hybrid models, while also acting as an innovative technology showcase for future generation hybrid cars.

Hybrid X is a vision for future environmentally friendly motoring. It fits clearly within Toyota’s environmental strategy of offering sustainable mobility for modern families. Hybrid X further extends the use of Hybrid Synergy Drive® which is becoming an enabler for vehicle concept innovation and allowing Toyota to push forward to new frontiers.
Hybrid X is designed as a four door, four seat open-space concept. It has the dimensions of a conventional family car with an overall length of 4,500mm and wheelbase of ,800mm. The width is ,850mm and height ,440mm.

Hybrid X has been created and developed by Toyota’s European styling centre, ED², in the south of France. It proposes unconventional creative solutions that will themselves potentially become the signature points of a specific hybrid identity.

Hybrid X follows the core values of the Toyota brand design philosophy under two consistent themes: J-Factor and Vibrant Clarity. J-Factor refers to the local and global acceptance of Japaneseinspired design and cultural form, while Vibrant Clarity is the design language used to express the J-factor. Through Vibrant Clarity, designers will infuse future vehicles with a completely original identity and emotional intensity that will be uniquely identifiable as coming from Toyota.

In this context, designers created an unconventional fusion of strength, lightness and emotion through the futuristic body shape. There is fusion of thought also – a symbiosis between the exterior and the interior so that, as you look at the exterior, you can imagine the interior with clarity and vision.

Interior designer, Laurent Bouzige, says: “Hybrid X is conceived as a multi-sensory experience. There is a formal style in the shape of the vehicle and the material used but every other reaction is linked to the passengers’ senses of sound, smel, sight and touch through interactive ambience. ”
The strongest form element of the exterior shape is the two ‘U’ shapes created by the massive upper glass frame area and the unconventional A and C pillars. When viewed from above this gives the impression of a vast X – hence the name of the concept, Hybrid X.

The U-shaped pillars allow the general shape of Hybrid X to achieve a superior aerodynamic form which is further enhanced by smooth surface lines and the integrated rear spoiler.

At the same time the glass area greatly enhances visibility to create an ‘open-space’ concept which “frames the vision” in all directions, including up.

Access and innovation are features of the rear-hinged passenger doors which open electronically at the touch of a button. Dynamic hints of driving performance are provided by the customised 0-inch alloy wheels with ultra-low profile 5/40 R0 tyres.

The smooth, aerodynamic lines of the front are unbroken by headlamps which are integrated into the dashboard and are now part of the interior of the car. These LED lamps are ‘intelligent’ and display graphic forms through animation, adopting the interactive concept of Hybrid X to communicate safety information to pedestrians or other drivers, such as safety distances, acceleration and braking.

Across the rear the energy-efficient LED lights form another U shape, reflecting the design signature of vehicle as a whole.

Fusion between exterior and interior styling is clear from the swooping curves of the interior surfaces. Here there are classic ergonomic solutions and the multi-sensory experience is most keenly developed as the car responds to human interaction. The human element is further emphasised by an artistic drawing printed on the inside door panel.

The driver can set the ambience within the car via an interface in order to control the four senses of sight, sound, touch and smell. LED lighting systems within the car provide a variety of illumination and are changing in harmony with different musical backgrounds. A perfume diffuser fills the air with gentle, relaxing aroma while the use of many different materials and textures on the interior surfaces provides variety to touch.

The drive-by-wire steering pad features a screen in its centre to relay vital energy information to the driver about the energy flow path, fuel consumption, gear position. Interactive navigation and Bluetooth connectivity is provided by a second screen in front of the driver.
A third touch screen, in the console, controls the ambience settings, such as the entertainment and audio systems, lightning operation and air conditioning. A sensitive touch on the steering pad allows the driver to switch information on the screens.

Space saving seats are formed using injected foam techniques which create comfort while reducing weight. In order to further promote human interaction, the two independent rear seats can swivel by degrees to allow passengers to enjoy the scenery or a more intimate ‘tête-à-tête’.
For now, it is clear Hybrid X is an innovative vehicle that conceives how Hybrid Synergy Drive® technology can deliver economical, cleaner and more comfortable motoring. It is a step closer to Toyota’s vision of the ultimate environmental driving technology and its design will influence the entire Toyota brand and its hybrid models in the future.
Hybrid X: a new landmark for Toyota hybrids

mikeyb

03-07-2007, 12:59 PM

2007 Porsche TechArt 911 Turbo GTstreet

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With its 2001 TechArt GTstreet, based on the Porsche 911 Turbo of the 996 model series, TechArt created one of the fastest and most powerful street-legal sports cars of its time. The next evolutionary stage of this fascinating concept celebrates its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2007. The new TechArt GTstreet, based on the 911 Turbo of the latest 997 series, starts at $320,000.

Like the predecessor the new GTstreet edition centers on a powerful engine. The 3.6-liter twin-turbo flat engine is modified by the TechArt engine specialists and now develops 630 bhp at 6,800 rpm, up from standard 480 bhp. Peak torque increases to 605 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm.

The TechArt TA 097/T3 engine conversion comprises two special VTG turbochargers, a new air box with sport air filter, high-performance manifolds, intercoolers and a stainless-steel sport exhaust system with high-performance catalysts. The precise optimal interaction of all modifications is ensured by a newly programmed engine management system.

Power is transferred to all four wheels via a modified transmission with TechArt gear-throw shortening.

Thus equipped the TechArt GTstreet delivers performance that firmly places it among the world’s fastest sports cars: 0 – 62 mph in just 3.2 seconds, 126 mph after just 10.9 seconds and a top speed of 214 mph speak volumes.

The bodykit for the TechArt GTstreet was created in the wind tunnel, and offers an optimal symbiosis of aerodynamic downforce, minimized drag and striking design.

The front fascia of the GTstreet with retractable carbon-fiber splitter produces downforce on the front axle and provides radiator, oil coolers and brakes with more cooling air, thanks to its large, striking air inlets. The auxiliary headlamp units with daytime running lights and fog lamps improve active safety. They also give the car even more passing clout.

The TechArt GTstreet fenders flareson the front axle add 10 mm to the two-door’s width and give it an even more dynamic appearance. But that’s not all: The air outlets behind the front wheel houses optimize brake venting. The larger air ducts in the rear sidewalls provide engine and intercoolers with a larger supply of cooling air. For an optimal transition between front and rear fenders the TechArt designers have developed rocker panels that complement the new contours. TechArt mirror and headlamp moldings provide the finishing touches.

The TechArt roof spoiler extends the roofline and optimizes airflow to the adjustable rear airfoil of the GTstreet.

The TechArt GTstreet rear fascia with integrated carbon-fiber diffuser contributes to the strong downforce generated on the rear axle. It also provides the perfect backdrop for the quad exhaust of the TechArt high-performance exhaust system.

TechArt Automobildesign offers a number of versions of its popular Formula wheel in sizes 8.5Jx20 in front and 12Jx20 on the rear axle. GTstreet buyers can choose from several color combinations and between the one-piece Formula and the multi-piece Formula II designs. The Formula II wheel features an exchangeable wheel lip. For optimal tires TechArt chose ContiSportContact 3 high-performance tires in sizes 245/30 ZR20 and 325/25 ZR20.

The large 20-inch wheels also provide the necessary space for the especially powerful and durable TechArt high-performance brake system. It features six-piston aluminum fixed calipers and 390-millimeter discs on the front axle. The rear axle is fitted with 365-millimeter discs and four-piston fixed calipers.

The TechArt GTstreet comes with a TechArt VarioPlus coil-over suspension that is based on the electronically adjustable PASM damping system of the 911 Turbo. This chassis allows individual ride-height lowering by up to 25 millimeters and push-button selection of two different damper settings, “Normal” or “Sport.” However, the dampers are not limited to these presets. Sporty driving automatically results in firmer damper settings in both modes, thus combining excellent ride comfort during normal driving with agile and responsive handling during fast cornering.

The cockpit of the TechArt GTstreet also differs distinctly from the stock 911 Turbo. Among the differences is an exclusive leather interior with color-contrasted stitching and sporty CarboBlack highlights. The coupe is further equipped with an ergonomically shaped TechArt sport steering wheel, aluminum foot pedals, foot rest and shifter, as well as with illuminated door sills sporting the TechArt logo.

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mikeyb

03-07-2007, 01:03 PM

2008 Bentley Brooklands (530bhp!!!)

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Source - Bentley
The Bentley Brooklands is a stunning new model that marks the company's return to the luxury coupé market and reaffirms its reputation as creator of the world's most exclusive coupés. It is the ultimate Bentley: a stylish, four-seat, grand touring coupe with classic British proportions and muscular performance.

Bentley's chairman Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen describes the motivation behind the new coupé: 'Bentley's proud sporting pedigree, forged by the exploits of the immortal ‘Bentley Boys' on the famous Brooklands racetrack in the 1920s, was the inspiration for our new coupé, capturing all the style, power and splendour of that era.' *

Sporting design cues are matched by the phenomenal performance engineering of Bentley's legendary Crewe-built V8 engine. The new Bentley Brooklands possesses the most powerful V8 the company has ever produced – a 530bhp, twin-turbocharged 6.75-litre unit that also produces a prodigious 1050Nm of torque.

Each Brooklands coupé will be hand-assembled, employing traditional coach-building techniques and the craftsmanship skills in wood veneer and leather hide for which Bentley is renowned. To ensure exclusivity, lifetime production will be strictly limited to just 550 cars, with deliveries expected to start in the first half of 2008.

Exterior Design: Classic British Proportions

Bentley's rich coupé heritage provided the stimulus for Director of Styling, Dirk van Braeckel and his design team. For van Braeckel, the task was very clear: 'To create a powerful, muscular and rakish grand touring coupé with classic British proportions, in the finest Bentley tradition.'

While the new Brooklands is influenced by Bentley's fine coupé lineage, its design and engineering are thoroughly contemporary. The proportions of long bonnet, short front overhang and long rear overhang achieve the design objective perfectly, while the low roofline, steeply raked screens and pillarless side glass convey both power and movement.

As the Brooklands will be built in very limited volume, the designers were able to introduce unique features that necessitate specialist coach-building techniques, as Programme Director, Ashley Wickham, reveals: 'The Brooklands' beautiful flowing lines are testament to the traditional coach-building skills and craftsmanship of Crewe's highly talented workforce.'

The ‘floating' rear screen, for example, is a contemporary take on traditional coachbuilt Bentleys. The lower edge of the screen sits well above the upper edge of the boot lid to provide a flowing, flawless line to the back of the car. This can only be achieved by individually hand-welding the rear wings to the C-pillars.

The fitment of 20-inch diameter wheels as standard, signalling the surefooted, robust and dynamic character of the new model, reaffirms the powerful stance of the new Bentley coupé.

Interior Design: Peerless Craftsmanship with a Sporting Character

Dirk van Braeckel describes the mission for the Bentley interior design team: 'To create the perfect Bentley coupé: sumptuous hand-crafted luxury with a distinctly sporting character.'

As in every Bentley, peerless craftsmanship is to the fore, enhanced by the warmth and richness of the finest natural materials. To tailor for their individual requirements, customers may choose from an extensive palette of hides, veneers, carpet tones and seat belt colours.

Its four-seat architecture and deeply bolstered seats lend the Brooklands' interior a distinctly sporting atmosphere, complemented by design accents such as aluminium foot pedals and footrest. A new, single-piece, hide-trimmed roof lining flows uninterrupted from the front windscreen all the way to the rear of the car, mirroring the long, sleek profile of the elegant exterior.

The interior designers sought to offer the very highest levels of comfort and legroom, in true Bentley grand touring tradition, while the pillarless window design enhances the feeling of space.

The Brooklands' cabin is wider both front and rear than the previous Bentley Continental R coupé – the rear by 10 percent – and it easily exceeds the interior leg, knee and headroom of any luxury coupe on sale today. This allows four adults to be accommodated in supreme comfort. Individual rear seats with electrically operated sliding cushions, set further back than on the Azure, are separated by a new centre console, incorporating both storage and cup holders.

Most powerful Crewe-built V8 ever – 530bhp, 1050Nm

Beneath its muscular, rakish, coach-built body lies the most powerful Crewe-builtV8 engine ever produced, developing 530bhp. Maximum torque is an astonishing 1050Nm, the highest ever developed by a production V8 engine. Although performance figures are subject to final confirmation as part of the on-going development programme, the new Bentley coupé will deliver supercar levels of in-gear acceleration combined with Arnage refinement.

At the beginning of the project, Dr Ulrich Eichhorn, Member of the Board, Engineering, tasked his power train specialists to deliver an extraordinary driving experience in the Bentley coupé tradition: 'Exhilarating, effortless, accessible performance for those truly passionate about their driving was our prime objective.'

Launched in the Bentley S2 saloon in 1959 with a capacity of 6.23 litres, the legendary, Crewe-built V8 engine has continually evolved. The first V8 was very advanced for its time with an all-aluminium construction, a five-bearing crankshaft and a well-supported camshaft, producing nearly 200bhp and 400Nm of torque. The result was a light and supple powertrain that produced maximum torque at low engine speeds, the hallmark of every Bentley ever produced.

1969 saw the capacity grow to 6.75 litres, where it remains to this day, but by far the most significant change came in 1982, with the introduction of a turbocharger to create the near-300bhp Mulsanne Turbo, a car that transformed the image of Bentley. In 1999, the single turbo engine, by now featuring port injection and charge cooling, was installed in Arnage, with twin turbos arriving in 2002, developing up to 450bhp.

For the 2007 model Arnage, the V8 engine saw a step-change in performance and refinement which became the starting point for the new Bentley Brooklands. A re-profiled camshaft and new, low-inertia turbochargers, which operate with greater efficiency at lower engine speeds have resulted in reduced turbo lag, enhancing that prodigious wave of torque at any revs, the hallmark of a true Bentley. These changes extend the power potential of the V8 in the Arnage to 500bhp and 1000Nm of torque. For the Bentley Brooklands, further component optimisation and engine calibration ensure record power and torque levels from this hand-assembled engine.

As with the latest Arnage, the V8 engine is mated to a six-speed transmission with strengthened casing that transforms the way in which both parts of the drive train communicate. A sophisticated, locking torque converter and ESP system ensure that the driver can readily access the prodigious power. A semi-automatic function allows manual gear selection for even greater driver control.

*The challenging Brooklands banked racetrack, which this year celebrates its centenary, was the birthplace of British motor racing. During the 1920s and early thirties, Brooklands, located in Surrey, England, was the scene of some of Bentley's greatest racing triumphs, forging an inextricable link between the company's motorsport heritage and this historic race circuit.

Kansei

03-07-2007, 01:06 PM

that techart Porsche is the ultimate Halloween mobile :D

mikeyb

03-07-2007, 01:08 PM

2007 Mercedes-Benz Brabus ML 63 AMG Widestar

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Sporty and dynamic, exclusive and powerful. These three attributes best describe the Brabus Widestar. The special model based on the ML 63 AMG celebrates its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2007. With the Widestar, Brabus presents not only a new and exciting wide-track version of the SUV but also the new Monoblock E 23-inch forged and Brabus B63 S performance tuning for the ML 63 with 550 bhp.

The Widestar concept, which is of course also available for all current M-Class models, combines dynamic looks with maximum functionality. The elegantly flowing lines of the front and back increase vehicle width by one and a half inches. The extra width benefit the car's appearance while the wider track improves handling. The multi-piece Brabus Monoblock E wheels in size 11Jx23 were custom-tailored for the wide-track version of the M-Class. Their forged wheel center ensures an optimal symbiosis of light-weight design and maximum strength. The new light-alloy wheels are mounted with in size 315/25 R23. The Brabus control module for the standard AIRMATIC air suspension lowers the ride height of the vehicle by more than one inch, further contributing to more sporty road-handling characteristics.

The Brabus Widestar body conversion consists of add-on parts for the doors, and rocker panels that create a more homogenous transition between the fender flares. But that's not all: Complete front and rear fascias replace their production counterparts front and back. The front spoiler bumper with three striking air inlets and four integrated auxiliary headlights lends the M-Class more passing clout and minimizes lift on the front axle. In combination with the rear spoiler the rear fascia with integrated diffuser and cutouts for the four chrome tailpipes of the Brabus stainless-steel sport exhaust system provides the perfect aerodynamic balance.

Its well balanced aerodynamic properties make the Brabus Widestar a perfectly suited to serve as the platform for a tuned version of the ML 63. The latter was developed by the Brabus motor engineers in form of the B63 S performance kit. The production V8 engine delivers 503 bhp. It is fitted with sport air filters and high-performance metal catalysts as well as newly programmed engine electronics with custom mapping for ignition and injection. Together these measures result in an increase in power output by 47 bhp to 550 bhp. Simultaneously peak torque grows 480 lb-ft. Vehicle performance benefits accordingly. The sprint from rest to 62 mph is shortened to 4.9 seconds. The engine tuning and installation of the Brabus V/max unit increase the top speed from 155 mph to 170 mph.

To further optimize active safety the Brabus Widestar can be equipped with a high-performance brake system. It features 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers and vented and cross-drilled 380 x 36 millimeter discs on the front axle. Together with 355 x 28-mm brake discs and 6-piston fixed calipers in the rear it provides the impressive stopping power usually reserved for purebred sports cars.

Yet another Brabus specialty for the Mercedes M-Class is the creation of exclusive interior options: Stainless-steel door sills with illuminated Brabus logo, an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel and leather-covered door trim pieces to upgrade the factory leather are all part of the program as are exclusive Brabus fully leather interiors made from meticulously crafted combinations of the finest Mastik leather and Alcantara. The production front seats are equipped with special rear consoles that reach all the way to the headrests. They house seven-inch 16:9 LCD screens with integrated DVD player. Also available is a version with an electric folding table made from precious wood.

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mikeyb

03-07-2007, 01:17 PM

Artega GT

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Germany’s alternative to the sports car establishment

The new car brand Artega® is set to unveil a close-to-production prototype of its debut model. Artega®’s aim is the development and production of small-series sports cars that break the mould. Artega® was the brainchild of engineers in the development department at paragon, the globally successful electronics supplier based in Delbrück, in the German state of North Rhine Westphalia. The company’s mission statement commits it to providing a convincing and sustained demonstration of both all-round automotive expertise and a passion for sporty cars.
Artega® and the Artega® GT represent a new beginning, with no brief to bring a historical brand back to life and no nostalgia agenda. The challenging, international setting of the Geneva Motor Show makes this a fitting venue for the first public unveiling of both brand and car.
The new Artega® GT combines the emotional appeal of a high-performance sports car with the defining attributes of a sports tourer. The development of the car hinged on four priorities:
A distinctive design language. Renowned designer Henrik Fisker has created proportions with an unprecedented purity: broad, flat and compact. Given its restricted dimensions, an interior brimming with efficiency comes as something of a surprise. There is room inside the car not just for two adults, but also their luggage – and even a child seat can be integrated as an option.
Agility, driving dynamics and safety. The key parameters in the development of the Artega® GT were lightweight construction and rigidity. A generously sized aluminium space frame teams up with a body made from carbon fibre-reinforced composite materials to ensure an impressive power-to-weight ratio. High-quality components sourced from the Volkswagen Group and a rear-engined arrangement make for top-class performance. The V6 powerplant with a direct-shift gearbox and a specially developed inverting stage was built into a compact module made from high-strength steel tubing. Active driving dynamics aids are an integral element of the GT, while exceptionally effective crash boxes protect the occupants in the event of an accident.
Touring suitability. The development engineers attached great importance to creating an occupant-oriented package. A wide variety of stowage areas and two luggage compartments exceed the usual boundaries for a car with these dimensions. The key to this extraordinary spaciousness was the decision to mount the engine horizontally in the rear of the car.
Controls. The expertise of the electronics specialists at paragon opened the door to a wide range of innovative control and driver information systems. With its groundbreaking new sensor switch panels and the unique dual-indicator speedometer/rev counter instrument, paragon’s all-new interior ambience represents a significant standout feature of the new Artega® GT.
By the end of 2007 a state-of-the-art production facility will be constructed in Delbrück for the Artega® GT and other potential models. The new location will bring together component manufacturing, final assembly and a brand and sales centre, allowing the brand to meet the broadest possible range of customer specifications.
The new Artega® GT is no show car. It documents the nascent brand’s intention to lay down a range of models which are designed for the long term and can secure it a place alongside the major manufacturers. The target group for these small-volume cars is a select band of enthusiasts who value ideas which step outside the norm and are therefore unlikely to be satisfied by large-series models.
Artega® aims to enrich the sports car world rather than providing extra competition.
Technical data: the Artega® GT sports touring car

<TABLE borderColor=#000000 cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=4 width="100%" border=1><COLGROUP><COL width=128></COL><COL width=128></COL><THEAD><TR vAlign=top><TD width="50%">Frame:
</TD><TD width="50%">aluminium space frame, tubular frame-type rear module in high-strength steel
</TD></TR></THEAD><TBODY><TR vAlign=top><TD width="50%">Body:
</TD><TD width="50%">carbon fibre-reinforced composite material
</TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD width="50%">Dimensions (L x W x H):
</TD><TD width="50%">3950 mm x 1880 mm x 1180 mm
</TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD width="50%">Kerb weight:
</TD><TD width="50%">approx. 1100 kg
</TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD width="50%">Engine:
</TD><TD width="50%">V6 with direct injection
</TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD width="50%">Displacement:
</TD><TD width="50%">3597 cc
</TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD width="50%">Output:
</TD><TD width="50%">300 hp (221 kW) at 6600 rpm
</TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD width="50%">Torque:
</TD><TD width="50%">350 Nm at 2400 rpm
</TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD width="50%">Power-to-weight ratio:
</TD><TD width="50%">approx. 3.6 hp/kg
</TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD width="50%">Transmission:
</TD><TD width="50%">six-speed direct-shift gearbox with inverting stage
</TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD width="50%">Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h:
</TD><TD width="50%">under five seconds
</TD></TR><TR vAlign=top><TD width="50%">Top speed:
</TD><TD width="50%">over 270 km/h
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
Artega. The history.

The idea.

paragon AG is a successful direct supplier to almost every major car maker. Based in Delbrück in the German state of North Rhine Westphalia, paragon develops and produces cutting-edge electronics technology such as control and display components, climate control and car media systems. Now paragon CEO Klaus Dieter Frers (54) is looking to broaden the company’s profile beyond that of a supplier to become a development partner in the motor industry. This change of role will require paragon to showcase its extensive systems expertise. Frers’ idea: to create a new car.
The incentive.

In order to demonstrate genuine expertise, the new model will need to be built in series. Frers’ concept: a high-performance sports car – rear-wheel drive, lightweight and powerful – that is both visually dramatic and practical, and contains innovative instruments and control systems supplied by paragon. Back in 2003 he presented the idea to legendary car designer Albrecht Graf Goertz, the creator of the BMW 507. As coincidence would have it, the first car Goertz designed was called the “Paragon“. His advice to Frers ran along the lines of: “There are things in life that have to be done“. For Frers, this car is one of them.
The expertise.

Frers is what you might call a “car guy“. His father was a plant manager at NSU, while Frers himself is a qualified engineer, keen racing driver and car collector. His new car will have to meet the highest standards. Frers knows what paragon can deliver, of course, and for those areas beyond its reach he has cast the net further afield. At the 2006 Geneva Motor Show, for example, he struck an agreement with renowned designer Henrik Fisker, and the wind tunnel at the University of Stuttgart has been used for aerodynamics work. The engine and transmission for the new car, meanwhile, were sourced from the Volkswagen Group. The result is a harmonious whole of exceptional quality.
The aspiration.

The aim is to help shape the future of the automobile. This new project is not about bringing an old brand back to life, but creating a new one. Artega® embodies the commitment of its founders to producing something totally new, free from the shackles of the past. A spin-off of paragon, Artega® is no small-scale workshop outfit but a maker of high-performance sports cars using industrial processes. Initially, annual production capacity at the specially constructed factory in Delbrück has been set at 500 units, while a brand centre will also be built on the site. The Artega® GT will be the first car produced as part of a long-term model strategy.
The end product.

The Artega® GT is not intended to create competition for existing sports cars. It will form a niche of its own, set apart from both small-scale exotica and volume manufacturers. The Artega® GT exudes emotional appeal, power and innovation. Despite its unusual proportions – compact, flat and broad – it offers an astonishingly high level of practicality, and the broad use of lightweight construction techniques ensures outstanding performance and impressive efficiency. The Artega® GT combines all this with an innovative paragon interior to create a quite unique new sports car for devotees of automotive innovation.

mikeyb

03-07-2007, 01:27 PM

Mercedes C-Class Triple Debut

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Production, DTM and BlueTec

The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class is celebrating a triple premiere at the 77th Geneva Motor Show: in addition to the standard-production model, the "AMG-Mercedes C-Class DTM 2007" racing version and the highly economical and environmentally friendly Vision C 220 BLUETEC, which is powered by the first four-cylinder engine to feature this innovative emissions control technology, have their debut at the show. With a fuel consumption of 5.5 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres, this study demonstrates how the even more stringent EURO 6 exhaust emission standard coming into force throughout Europe from 2015 can be achieved. Clean and economical engines are also the hallmark of the new C-Class, which is available on the European market from March 31.
"Since the sales release date at the end of January, more than 55,000 customers in western Europe alone have decided in favour of the new C-Class," said Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of DaimlerChrysler AG and Head of the Mercedes Car Group, in his preliminary remarks at the Mercedes-Benz press conference in Geneva. "We are confident that the new C-Class will continue the success story of its predecessor, of which more than two million units were sold," Zetsche continued.
The fourth-generation C-Class has captured the enthusiasm of customers with its unique combination of safety, comfort and agility. The standard appointments of all variants include the innovative AGILITY CONTROL package with its situation-responsive shock-absorber control, which opens up new dimensions in handling refinement: it combines typical Mercedes comfort with extraordinarily agile driving characteristics. The new C-Class is powered by state-of-the-art four and six cylinder engines which consume up to six percent less fuel than the preceding models, accompanied by an increase in output of up to 13 percent. Despite a variety of technical innovations and even more generous standard appointments, and taking inflation into account, the price of the new C-Class remains at the same level as that of the preceding series. In Germany and other European countries, the entry-level price including tax is still below 30,000 €.
Exemplary safety and a versatile product concept

The C-Class also sets new standards in its segment where safety is concerned. Examples include the Intelligent Light System with five different lighting functions and the PRE-SAFE® system with its anticipatory occupant protection features. In addition, the new C-Class Saloon excels with a particularly versatile product concept which meets the expectations of different customer target groups. In the form of the AVANTGARDE, ELEGANCE and CLASSIC lines, Mercedes-Benz offers three individual model variants which place different emphases on comfort or agility.
The concept of two different product personalities within the same series is also given a visual emphasis in the new C-Class, as it is the first Mercedes saloon to appear with two different "faces": the AVANTGARDE models have the Mercedes star at the centre of the radiator grille and thereby follow the styling lead of the sporty Mercedes models, especially the coupés. The more traditional ELEGANCE and CLASSIC variants bear the star on the bonnet as before.
World premiere of the first BLUETEC four-cylinder engine in the Vision C 220 BLUETEC

In a study based on the new C-Class, Mercedes-Benz is also presenting its innovative BLUETEC emissions control technology in combination with a highly fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine for the first time in Geneva. In terms of ensuring compliance with the even stricter EURO 6 emission standard, applicable to all new vehicles Europe-wide from 2015, the Vision C 220 BLUETEC shows the way ahead. Boasting an output of 125 kW (170 hp) and a peak torque of 400 Nm, the Vision C 220 BLUETEC consumes a mere 5.5 litres of diesel per hundred kilometres.
"The sophisticated four-cylinder diesel engine with BLUETEC emission control is a prime example of leading-edge, future-compatible technology," explains Dr Dieter Zetsche. "Our diesel strategy is an effective answer to the question of how to save fuel and, therefore, CO2, how to further reduce all exhaust emissions including NOx and yet still ensure effortlessly superior driving enjoyment. In this respect, we believe our state-of-the-art diesel concept is currently the best and most efficient solution available." With the Vision C 220 BLUETEC, Mercedes-Benz is providing a taste of things to come as part of its BLUETEC initiative which was launched in the US last autumn. The initial impetus came from the market launch of the E 320 BLUETEC in North America in October 2006, which was timed to coincide with the introduction of low-sulphur diesel in that part of the world. A fuel consumption figure of 6.7 litres per hundred kilometres makes the E 320 BLUETEC one of the most economical vehicles in its class in the US.
With the first four-cylinder BLUETEC model, Mercedes-Benz illustrates just how versatile this innovative technology can be. Following the US launch, the company will also introduce BLUETEC in other markets. The technology is currently being adapted to European market requirements and further Mercedes Benz models, the aim being to also offer this environmentally friendly and highly economical technology for European customers as well from 2008, first of all in the E-Class.
New C-Class: CO2 emissions already reduced by 15 percent

The standard-production version of the new C-Class is testament to the successful work performed by Mercedes-Benz in its quest to consistently reduce both fuel consumption and emissions. A lifecycle assessment carried out on the new Saloon, certified by the German technical inspection authorities (TÜV), confirms that the carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions for what is now the fourth-generation C Class have been reduced by 15 percent. This corresponds to nine tonnes per vehicle. This makes the new C-Class the only car in its market segment to possess an environmental certificate.

mikeyb

03-08-2007, 10:49 AM

Lotus Exige GT3 Concept

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Donas64

03-08-2007, 11:22 AM

That Artera is Beautiful!

mikeyb

03-08-2007, 11:53 AM

Hyundai Qarmaq Concept

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Kia Ex Ceed Concept

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