Katya Mikova – Page 16 – Automobiles Review

The New SEAT Leon ST Curpa Conveys Compact Sportiness

Seat revealed its top-of-the-range Leon ST Curpa which takes the Leon ST wagon bodylook and twists it through its own prism, thus turning it into the Curpa hot-hatch style we are able to see.

The new Seat Curpa three and five-door hatchbacks manage to condense simple style and utility along with a top-class performance. Both versions are powered by the well-known four-cylinder 2.0 turbocharged gasoline engine. The powerplant in the Leon ST Curpa can deliver 265 HP (195 kW) while the motor in the Leon ST Curpa 280 pushes out 280 HP (206 kW). Still, the cars produce a peak torque of 350 Nm (258 lb-ft).

Among the models, the Curpa 280 represents the fastest version, fitted with the optional DSG gearbox which accelerates from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 6 seconds. When we compare it to the manual gearbox, the first one is 0.1 quicker. As a result, the regular Leon ST Curpa covers the 62 mph (100 km/h) run in 6.1s with the DSG and in 6.2s with the six-speed manual. The top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h) is reached by all Curpa variants.

Let’s talk about equipment now. The new Seat Leon ST Curpa benefits from a Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) system which can adapt the chassis characteristics to the road conditions within seconds. The front-wheel drive car also has a front-axle differential lock that significantly enhances traction and handling and also reduces torque steer.

Standard for the Leon ST Curpa is the set of 18-inch alloy wheels while the “280” version takes advantage of bigger 19-inch rims featuring titanium paint finish. Something that differentiates the second version is its spoiler mounted on the rear roof side, “Curpa ” lettering on the brake callipers and black side mirrors. Inside it receives deep glossy black or classic chrome trim accents.

Both Seat Leon ST Curpa models have full LED headlights, LED taillights, Alcantara-wrapped sport seats, LED ambient lighting and a Media System Plus infotainment system with a 6.5-inch touchscreen color display.

The Leon ST Curpas will be officially presented at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show in early March.

Source: SEAT

January 8, 2015

Toyota Opens up Hydrogen Fuel Cell Patents [VIDEO]

At the 2015 Consumer Electronics Show, Toyota announced that it opens “the door to the hydrogen future” by sharing freely more than 5500 hydrogen fuel cell patents. This patent release announcement is very similar to a suggestion made by Tesla Motors CEO Elon Musk in June, last year. Nevertheless, it is rather important as by doing this, the Toyota gives pretty much carte blanche to different automakers around the world to build more and more fuel cell cars, which will result in requesting more hydrogen stations.

The list of royalty-free fuel cell patents is comprised of 1,970 patents which have to do with fuel cell stacks, 290 related to high-pressure hydrogen tanks, 3,350 associated with fuel cell system software control and 70 patents that cover hydrogen production and supply.

In relation to this highly important statement, Bob Carter, senior vice president of automotive operations at Toyota in a statement pointed out that; “When good ideas are shared, great things can happen.”

Interestingly enough, the announcement was made after the introduction of the new Toyota Mirai which receives an estimated range of about 300 miles from its hydrogen tanks. In addition to this, hydrogen tanks takes around five minutes to be refilled, which is something similar to gasoline-fueled vehicles. Finally, the hydrogen-powered car by Toyota went on sale in Japan in December and will go on sale in the US and Europe and in late 2015.

If you want to find out more, check out the link bellow.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EU8PMd-pwkg

Source: Toyota

Video Source: Toyota via Youtube

January 7, 2015

Aston Martin Vantage GT3 Teased [VIDEO]

Aston Martin has been toying around with the idea of a road-going Vantage GT3 model which will be officially presented at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show.

In order to escalate the impatience of customers, Aston Martin teased with a video which draws connections to the V12 Vantage GT3 racer. Even though there is a sufficient lack of any further information that might feed the hunger of those who are anticipating the final moment of the car’s release, the vehicle is expected to be powered by an advanced version of the 6.0-liter V12 engine. The powerplant will be able to pump a not inconsiderable power output of 600 HP approximately.

The teaser video shows the V12 Vantage GT3 racer in action on the Nürburgring Nordschleife track. At the end we are given a glimpse of a sketch of the street-legal machine. What we can see is a massive rear wing, more aggressive front end with a reworked bumper and redesigned engine hood. But that’s scarcely enough, isn’t it? For more, we have to wait slightly longer.

Aston Martin not always teases, but when it does, it knows how to do it!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I_51BWtp4Fk

Video Source: Aston-Martin via Youtube

January 7, 2015

Land Rover Shows Trio of Defender Limited Editions [VIDEO]

Land Rover is closing one chapter and opening a new one in the Land Rover Defender life. In order to celebrate its iconic modals, the automaker creates three bespoke special editions named: Heritage, Adventure and Autobiography. Each of them highlights a specific aspect of the Defender’s nature, while conveying a sort of individualism, distinguishable sophistication and breadth of character.

To start with, Land Rover Heritage Edition takes its inspiration from early Land Rover models and embodies “nostalgic design cues with modern creature comforts.” It comes with a Grasmere Green paintowork contrasted by a white roof. This model is further defined by a heritage grille and HUE 166 graphics as a recollection of the registration plate of the first pre-production Land Rover called “Huey”. Its production will be limited to 400 units in the UK in August with a starting price of £27,800.

The exclusive Defender Autobiography version unleashes better performance, luxury and convenience than before. It has duo-tone paintjob, full Windsor leather upholstery and an improved power output from 122 HP (90 kW) and 360 Nm (265 lb-ft) to 150 HP (110 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft). The Defender Autobiography Editions will be available in the UK from April. 80 units will be produced exceptionally as a 90 Station Wagon. The starting price is that of £61,845.

Lastly, the Land Rover Defender Adventure Edition is designed for people who enjoy the great outdoors and like the free-spirited attitude of the Defender which allows them to go whenever they want and do whatever they want too. It is equipped with an extra underbody protection and Goodyear MT/R tires which enhance the all-terrain capabilities of this madness on four wheels. What makes the Adventure model stands out is the use of unique decals and a leather-trimmed cabin. There are going to be 600 Adventure Editions in the UK in August, priced at £43,495.

Honoring the Defender’s story, Land Rover has created the largest sand drawing ever made in the UK.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4roB2KHK3PE

Source: Land Rover
Video Source: Land Rover via Youtube

January 7, 2015

Donkervoort D8 GTO Bilster Berg Edition with a Recognizable Design

Donkervoort D8 GTO - Front view

I tend to like what Donkervoort usually comes up with but this time it was rather disappointing. The Dutch automaker has finally managed to craft out something (yes, I call it something because it is much easier this way rather than writing down the whole name of the new automobile, which I guess I will have to mention at some point) that sways between being too extravagant and being too… ugly. (Perhaps, if the cabin was moved a bit forward, it would make a huge difference it terms of the vehicle’s bodylook.)

Named after the Bilster Berg track in Germany, the Donkervoort D8 GTO Bilster Berg Edition knows how to stand out from the crowd: firstly by its name, and secondly by its not-so-pleasing appearance. The base model takes advantage of Audi’s 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbo engine (from the RS3 and TT RS), that propels 380 HP.

Featuring a uniquely designed carbon fiber nose (which is probably the only thing that I like about it), this GTO arrives with new badges and a reworked roll cage which brings a higher level of safety. The car is fitted with limited series production, semi-slick tires which are the result of the collaborative work between Donkervoort and Hankook tyre manufacturer.

The D8 GTO Bilster Berg Edition is marked by a special emblem for immediate recognition and also has a dashboard which is adorned with a type plate with the number and name of the car’s owner.

In attempts to make the Bilster Berg Edition more tempting, the car-maker will built it in a limited series of just 14 cars. This is a number that will represent the highly eventful and successful year for Donkervoort.

Source: Donkervoort

January 7, 2015

Lexus Reveals its GS F Saloon

Lexus has unveiled its 2016 GS F well ahead of the car’s official debut at the North American International Auto Show. As it seems, BMW M4 just got a high-class competitor!

Benefiting from a wide range of enhancements, the new Lexus GS F Saloon is powered by a naturally-aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine that bursts out 467 bhp (348 kW / 473 PS) at 100rpm and 527 Nm (389 lb-ft) of maximum torque between 4,800 and 5,600rpm. What is more, it is mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox with manual-shifting capabilities.

Despite the fact that the automaker was kind of secretive about more specifications, it revealed that Lexus GS F will have a Torque Vectoring Differential, which premiered in the RC F. There are three different modes:

Standard (default) which balances the agility and firmness
Slalom, that puts emphasis on nimble steering response and agility
Track, which provides with stability in high-speed circuit driving

There is a certain sportiness which characterizes the new model. The GS F’s monocoque chassis will be structurally reinforced and will feature an exceptional suspension package which is set to boost the car’s handling capabilities and ride quality.

Inside, the sporty appearance is continued as there are two-tone sport seats and carbon fiber trim. Contrast stitching and metallic elements accentuate the cabin as well.

Which one would you prefer though? Lexus GS F or BMW M4?

Source: Lexus

January 7, 2015

BMW Shows M4 Concept Iconic Lights

BMW is obviously ready to go on with the innovative developments in terms of Laserlight. At the 2015 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, the Bavarian marque is showcasing its BMW M4 Concept Iconic Lights which are a modern-day interpretations of the typical BMW twin round headlights that incorporate the laser lights technology.

In the core of the lighting functions of the Concept Iconic Lights lies the idea of ensuring enhanced safety and comfort. Thanks to the white metallic car which was exhibited, we can see how the future lights would look like on a BMW vehicle. Precisely, there are fine blue strips inside the lights which identify the laser technology.

The beams are about ten times more powerful than other light source and have impressively long range of up to 600 meters in combination with the camera-based BMW Selective Beam function (anti-dazzle High-Beam Assistant). The latter is controlled by dynamic instigators and serves to prevent oncoming or preceding vehicles from being dazzled. It also allows the laser high beam to be left on at all times.

The dynamic abilities of these lamps are taken even further thanks to the use of an infra-red camera which detects other moving objects and reduces the risk of accidents.

BMW M4 Concept Iconic Lights are based on OLEDs (organic light-emitting diodes) which can produce light from wafer-thin semiconducting layers of purely organic material. Interestingly enough, this is the first time when the tail lights and rear direction indicators feature OLED technology.

Source: BMW

January 6, 2015

Subaru STARLINK Enhanced by SIRIUS XM

Subaru of America, Inc. is teaming up with Sirius XM Connected Vehicle Services Inc., a unit of Sirius XM, and AT&T in order to enhance its Subaru STARLINK in-vehicle connectivity system.

STARLINK represents an in-vehicle platform which delivers a variety of hands-free connectivity, entertainment and safety services. Thanks to the collaborative work Subaru STARLINK will be able to give more. Arriving with a built-in AT&T 4G LTE capability, the in-vehicle platform will offer features provided by Sirius XM Connected Vehicle Services. The new pack of features includes: stolen vehicle recovery, automatic collision notification, remote vehicle services such as lock/unlock via a smartphone device and monthly vehicle health reports.

With the improvements, Subaru will be able to provide comprehensive safety and security qualities as well as better connectivity to car occupants. Moreover, Sirius XM contributes with its audio entertainment service for a greater driving experience.

In relation to this, Alan Bethke, vice president of marketing, Subaru of America, Inc. said that; “Working with trusted, industry leaders such as Sirius XM and AT&T to enhance the Subaru STARLINK in-vehicle connectivity system is a natural fit for Subaru.” He continued and added; “Sirius XM and AT&T will enable us to provide customers with additional peace of mind through new safety and security services, as well as enhanced connectivity.”

Source: Subaru

January 6, 2015

Detroit Eelectric SP:01 – Specifications

Detroit Electric has finally unveiled the exterior and interior designs for the SP:01 pure-electric sports car. Pre-production prototype models are going through some extensive testing at Detroit Electric’s production facility in Leamington Spa, UK, ahead of the official production in early 2015.

Power-wise, the lightweight electric car is fitted with an electric motor which is able to produce 285 HP (210 kW). There are also carbon fiber body panels and manual transmission that comes as standard. An optional single-speed and twin-speed automatic transmission are available as well. The two-seater sports car promises to deliver spectacular acceleration, reaching 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds) before boosting a mind-blowing top speed of 155 mph (249 km/h).

Outside, the Detroit SP:01 has been altered in order to show off with an improved aerodynamic performance. Thus, some of the refined highlights include a new fastback configuration, a large sculptural rear wing and under-body diffuser. The last two features help reduce lift and improve handling when the driver decides to cut the air while driving at a higher speed. The sports car offers a Metallic paint options such as: Performance Black, Performance Blue, Performance Green, Performance Orange and Performance Silver, as well as ‘Special White’ and ‘Special Red’. Clients can order customized paint colors too.

In order to craft out a plain and not so complicated cabin, the SP:01’s center console has an incorporated 8.4-inch touchscreen tablet, that replaces the previous analogue dials and switches on the fascia. Other specifications include: Detroit Electric’s SAMI (Smartphone Application Managed Infotainment) application with Android operating system, that provides access to different functions, like music player, HVAC (heating, ventilating and air conditioning), satellite navigation and vehicle systems status, such as battery charge, V2X (Vehicle-to-Grid and Vehicle-to-Home) etc.

There is also a choice of leather or Alcantara sports seats (black, with body-color accents), power electric windows, power central locking, ambient cabin lighting, embroidered floor mats and Bluetooth connectivity. Nevertheless, customers are given the opportunity to personalize their vehicle by choosing between colored leather seats (red, beige, tan and black) or two-tone leather seats (black with a choice of red, beige, blue, orange or grey), and optional leather trim for door panels, door sills and dashboard.

Source: Detroit-Electric

January 6, 2015

Mercedes-Benz F 015 Luxury in Motion: Automobile Revolution

Think of the future. Yes, that future, with huge capital F! This is what Mercedes-Benz is trying to incorporate in its latest concept car revealed at CES this week. The automotive company is seeking to encapsulate a whole set of futuristic ambitions into a car that will serve the needs of drivers on a totally different level. Level that is extracted from an environment which does not belong to our world and yet, it is somehow applicable here.

Dubbed the Mercedes Benz F 015 Luxury in Motion – frankly, the last two words are somewhat unnecessary, as if we would not be able to notice the luxury… or the motion in this mere creation from beyond – the car is really able to demonstrate… luxury… in motion. This vision for the future of motoring has the goal to present the first self-driving car which drives you to your destination while offering more than enough space for complete comfort.

The all-new body structure is crafted out of carbon fiber reinforced plastic, aluminum and high strength steel. Inside, there is a mobile living space made from open grain walnut, glass, ice white nappa leather and aluminum. The use of six screens controlled via eye-tracking, gesture recognition or touch demonstrate one highly-progressive Connectivity which really suits the unconventional nature of this car of the future.

With travelling convenience being the most cardinal concept here, Mercedes-Benz envisioned an innovative interior with variable seating system which offers four rotating lounge chairs that provide with a face-to-face seat configuration. What is more, the seats can swing by 30 degrees to allow easy ingress and egress.

Perhaps, it will be too obvious to mention but the F 015 is eco-friendly. It is said to contain the F-Cell plug-in hybrid system, firstly seen in Mercedes-Benz F 125 research vehicle in 2011, which will help the F 015 concept travel 1,100 km (684 miles) on a single charge.

It sounds like a car born out of perfection and transformed into a physical automotive excellence. Pity that it is unlikely to turn into a reality soon.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

January 6, 2015

Golf R Touch Cockpit Concept Solves Future Challenges

It is a known fact that the two creates creation in the world, the car and the computer, are merging together, thus forming a final automobile product which is expected to be more communicative, reliable, safer, advanced, interesting and even entertaining. Having the goal to create such successful merging between technology and an automobile, Volkswagen is releasing its innovative Volkswagen Golf R Touch. Its aim is to offer not only groundbreaking systems but systems which are, in fact, easy to use and really useful.

The Volkswagen Golf R Touch concept vehicle, displayed for the first time at the 2015 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas (CES), demonstrates what practical implementation of technology means. The car’s future concept focuses on a gesture-controlled automotive environment which, of course, isn’t something new but Volkswagen manages to push it one level up. With the mounting of cameras inside the cabin, drivers are enabled to set commands with just hand gestures. In other words, one does not actually need to touch the displays. At all. Respectively, the company points out that this system is “intended to reduce driver distractions while attaining maximum personalization and intuitive operation in the car.”

There are three different displays: 12.8-inch high-resolution infotainment system touchscreen; a Control Center (8.0-inch with touch feedback) and a 12.3-inch Active Information Display. As it is stated, both the looks of the displays and the interior color can be customized to the driver’s preferences — same as when customizing your tablet or smartphone.

Something else that was revealed at CES was the ultimate networking capacity of the Golf R Touch in the form of Connected Golf. This is e-Golf with online-based functionality which will be fittted with the newest generation (MIB II) infotainment system. It will also take advantage of a huge number of apps, smartphones and tablets thanks to its advanced interface management system.

Others progressive extras of the e-Golf include: e-Golf Intelligent Charge and e-Golf Perfect Parking system.

Source: Volkswagen

January 6, 2015

2016 Chevrolet Volt: Sneak Peek

It is finally here, people! Instead of waiting for the North American International Auto Show in Detroit next week when the 2016 Chevrolet Volt is going to be revealed, General Motors chose to depict its new electric hybrid earlier at CES.

For now all that we have is a visual glimpse of the new model, without any official specifics. Nevertheless, the automaker has promised that the 2016 Chevy Volt will be equipped with an improved steering system and refined acceleration. Moreover, it is said that the noise and vibration levels have been reduced significantly.

Additionally, the electric hybrid will be fitted with a bigger battery pack that has been the result of the collaborative work with LG Chem. The battery can store about 20 percent more despite the fact that it is 13 kg lighter.

In relation to the exterior, what we can clearly see from the image is the reworked nose of the car. The front fascia is characterized by upper and lower grills which are accompanied by updated LED daytime running lights and well-shaped headlights.

Detailed information is yet to be announced so stay tuned for more!

Source: Chevrolet via Twitter

January 5, 2015

Author: Katya Mikova