Lidia Todorova – Page 102 – Automobiles Review

B&B Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG is Capable of up to 450 HP/580 Nm

Mercedes CLA 45 AMG has received a B&B three-stage performance upgrade program. The result is substantial power increase from the standard 360 hp (265 kW) to 450 hp (331 kW) and a peak torque boost from 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) to 580 Nm (428 lb-ft). The first update for the CLA 45 AMG starts with a Stage 1 ECU remapping and includes revised fuel, ignition and turbo boost curves. In this stage the power and torque are raised to 400 hp (294 kW) and 510 Nm (376 lb-ft).

Stage 2 steps on the first one, adds air intake system with improved ram effect, and the B&B exhaust downpipe for reduced exhaust back-pressure and exhaust gas temperature. The ECU mapping is optimized, thus making this Mercedes capable of 425 hp (313 kW) and 540 Nm (399 lb-ft) of torque.

The ultimate conversion stage is the third one. It is centered on a bespoke turbocharger, enhanced cold air intake system and exhaust downpipe from Stage. There is also a bespoke ECU mapping which suits the new hardware. As a result we get 450 hp (331 kW) with 580 Nm (428 lb-ft) of torque.

In this tuned CLA 45 AMG jointed Racing Motor’s “World’s Fastest Sedan”, it would probably beat the Dodge. The stopwatch would witnesses a 0-100 km/h sprint in spectacular 3.8 seconds (instead of standard 4.6 seconds). The 0-200 km/h time is reduced from 17.1 to 14.3 seconds.

B&B also removed the 250 km/h top speed limiter. Thus, Stage 3 allows 296 km/h, and together with the improved sprinting ability, gives the luxury supercar performance without compromising.

B&B also added a high-efficiency oil cooling system, which uses the factory temperature thermostat and keeps engine’s life by giving lubricant from overheating in hard driving conditions. In addition, B&B exhaust downpipe sits between the turbocharger and exhaust system. It helps reduce backpressure and exhaust gas temperature, thus making it easing thermal stress on the engine, releasing an additional 15 kW/20 hp with no other modifications.

The cars stance and handling are lowered via the use of B&B sport spring set, which lowers the ride height by 30 and 25 mm at the front and rear respectively. On the other hand, the coil-over suspension kit for the CLA 45 AMG, allows the cars ride height and damper bounce and rebound to be set independently for road or track driving.

At last B&B needed something to balance the increased performance. They added a six-piston high performance brake system and B&B 8.5Jx20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 235/30ZR20 tyres.

Source: B&B Automobiltechnik

February 12, 2015

Nissan Invents LEAF EV that Glows in the Dark [VIDEO]

Nissan has just released a very interesting video showing the first car to have to glow-in-the-dark paint scheme. By doing this, the company writes history, being the first manufacturer to partner with similarly innovative inventor, Hamish Scott, to create paint that uses UV energy absorbed during daylight to glow at night. And of course the model to apply this new “color”-approach is the all-electric LEAF.

Hamish Scott is creator of STARPATH. This is a spray-applied coating that absorbs UV energy during the day. When the night falls, the absorbed energy glows for between eight and 10 hours.

The Japanese company not only offers glowing car paint, but also glow-in-the-dark car wraps, both made up of entirely organic materials. Precisely, the Scott used very rare natural earth product called Strontium Aluminate. It is solid, odorless and chemically and biologically inert.

Another very interesting fact about this paint is that if it is made commercially available, it would last for 25 years. Nissan LEAF owners have reported significant savings and are using the saved money for example for solar panels for their homes. This in turn decreases the household carbon footprint and means owners are also effectively charging their vehicle for free.

According to a recent research, 89% of LEAF owners charge their cars at home overnight. And here is the deal: solar panels do not store energy or provide it outside of daylight, but any leftover power which is generated during the day is fed back into the national grid. Homeowners then can get a Government payment for it, which simply means that the overnight charge is already paid for.

One of these lucky LEAF owners is Ian Finch. He has combined the savings offered by running an all-electric vehicle with solar panels to power his home. Here is a fascinating interview with him on LEAF charging using solar energy:

httpv://youtu.be/xM9XRn1amqQ

httpv://youtu.be/nKj2sEpg1xg

Source: Nissan

February 12, 2015

Racing Cowboys Tell Us Which is “World’s Fastest Sedan”. You Will be Surprised! [VIDEO]

Put six luxury sedans to the test in a three round racing competition in two different states. Although each vehicle has its strengths, only one should be announced “The Fastest Sedan” in the world! And undoubtedly, when one thinks of the world’s fastest car, he or she does not imagine luxury sedans. At the same time these beautiful machines run with more and more horsepower nowadays.

This is the reason why Racing Cowboys were tempted to put six of them to the test. The “stars of the show” were Mercedes-Benz S65, Aston Martin Rapide S, BMW M5, Jaguar XJR, Cadillac CTS-V, and the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat. Together they have the combined value of more than $800 000 USD!

One of the quickest ways to measure car’s performance is how fast it is and how much time it needs to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph. At first, Racing Cowboys started their elimination competition with two races. In the number one 0-to-60 race, the cars competing were the Mercedes, Cadillac and the Dodge, while in the second one the other three.

Those two cars that have shown the slowest results in each of the races were sent back home. Have you guessed which couple was eliminated first? Then the cowboys continued to the semi finals and finals, but we will not reveal any more details. You will be definitely surprised!

Watch the extensive video below and find out which is “World’s Fastest Sedan?”! You can also let us know what you think!

httpv://youtu.be/rSFtXsOIkLo

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Racing Cowboys

February 11, 2015

Tesla Beware! nanoFlowcell Quant F to produce 1090 HP and Effortlessly Cover 800 km?

Remember the nanoFlowcell Quant e-Sportlimousine which was introduced at the last Geneva Auto Show? Well, it is time for the next concept model in company’s portfolio which is dubbed nanoFlowcell Quant F Concept. This is an electric automobile which has a range of 800 km and shows exceptional performance. This almost sounds unbelievable, but we will see all coming true at this year’s auto saloon in Geneva, where the concept will make its official premiere.

The four-seater is an e-sports saloon equipped with nanoFlowcell drive technology. It is equipped with new two-speed automatic transmission that was developed in-house specifically to deliver impressive performance.

And so it does! The top speed here is estimated over 300 km/h in all-electric mode. But this means also zero harmful emissions! And here’s why this car is a big deal: the new QUANT F is not only environment-friendly, but also extremely powerful. Precisely it can produce up to 1090 hp (this equals 801.69 kW!)

The Quant F features an expressive red exterior color, but also integrates newly developed technical components. The enhanced nanoFlowcell continuously feeds over 50 amperes of current into the newly buffer system. In turn, this buffer system is briefly able to supply over 2000 amperes when needed for full performance.

On the other hand a carbon fibre monocoque made with a narrower A-pillar provides the electric beast with more spacious interior and elegant lines. At the same time it offers exceptional safety for four passengers and range of 800 km.

Yes, the 5.25-metre long sports saloon can cover a renage of over 800 km in all-electric mode alone! In addition, as an alternative drive system, the nanoFlowcell is operated with an ionic fluid. Instead of utilizing hydrogen and oxygen as in a conventional fuel cell, the company works with positive charge ionic fluid and one with a negative charge.

Another exclusive feature is the permanent 4×4 all-wheel drive. It is applied through a four electric motors, which can be converted automatically into a rear-wheel drive at appropriately high speeds or high acceleration rates. To this end the front axle is declutched and subsequently runs in idling mode.

Next, the 2-stage aerofoil needs to be mentioned as well. This feature is activated automatically when the car reaches a speed of 80 km/h, applying additional negative lift force to the rear wheels.

Source: nanoFlowcell

February 11, 2015

2016 Ford Police Interceptor Utility Revealed

Ford has just officially revealed the 2016 Police Interceptor Utility ahead of its Chicago debut tomorrow. The vehicle is to hit the streets with a fresh look and wide variety of features this summer. More importantly its building and the one of the Police Interceptor Sedan happened at Ford’s Chicago Assembly Plant. From there they will be shipped to markets across the world.

To create the latest and most innovative law enforcement vehicles, the company listened to experts such as the Police Advisory Board. The group supplied Ford with customer feedback and served as a pilot group for products, programs and services.

As a result we have the 2016 Ford Police Interceptor Utility which has new front and rear design, new headlamps, a new instrument panel and an enhanced electrical system that distributes electrical loads more efficiently.

As an option, there is the choice of Surveillance Mode technology, which warns the driver when someone approaches the back of the vehicle. If this happens, driver’s window automatically raises and all doors lock.

According to the feedback, Ford also added the liftgate release switch, which is accessible to occupants in the front. It allows the rear liftgate mechanism to remain unlocked for 45 seconds before timing out, permitting officers to access the cargo area. The new police vehicle will also benefit from a rear camera with washer and a four-inch screen in the center stack as a standard.

The power for the mighty automobile comes from the 3.7-liter V6 engine, which produces 304 horsepower (224 kW) and 39 Nm (279 lb.-ft.) of torque. The optional powerplant is the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 that generates 365 horsepower (268 kW) and 474 Nm (350 lb.-ft.) of torque. The Police Interceptor Utility comes as a standard with an all-wheel drive, which is designed to deliver low-speed traction, high-speed handling and stability.

Each unit is coupled with a standard six-speed transmission that features a Pursuit Mode. The transmission automatically switches from normal, fuel-saving operation to Pursuit Mode when it detects aggressive driving situations.

Furthermore, the new Police Interceptor is also equipped with custom brakes, which were designed to withstand excessive use. It runs on steady 18-inch steel wheels which have high venting characteristics to help cool the brakes. Larger-diameter springs are used in the suspension. Interior and exterior dimensions remain the same for the new model year.

Source: Ford

February 11, 2015

Nissan Adds “n-tec” Spec to the Note Range

Nissan’s Note N-TEC is loaded with goodies. This is the new trim level for the Note model, which is engineered for active people and/or for modern families. It is also visible that the exterior has been updated, while what remains unseen are the additional Safety Shield technologies and Rear View Camera. The Acenta Premium variant now features New NissanConnect with DAB radio as standard.

The n-tec was introduced on X-Trail, Qashqai and Pulsar. Now it is time for the Note to benefit from the grade. The new Note n-tec is positioned between the range-topping Tekna and mid-grade Acenta Premium. It adds wide variety of features and technology, safety and design upgrades with almost no difference in pricing.

The model is equipped with improved styling package which includes new 16-inch alloy wheels, satin silver door handles and wing mirror covers. Nissan is offering a choice of eight exterior paint schemes, with Ink Blue finish being exclusive to n-tec.

Other styling features include black bezel headlamps, aerodynamic front bumper, carbon-look rear bumper, unique blue stitch on the leather steering wheel and rear privacy glass. The Note n-tec is powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine producing 80 horsepower and connected to a six-speed manual transmission. This unit emits 109g/km of CO2 and has a combined fuel consumption figure of 60.1mpg.

Moving inside, this note is equipped with NissanConnect featuring 5.8” touchscreen satellite navigation, DAB radio, Rear View Camera, and Safety Shield suite of technologies including Blind Spot Warning, Moving Object Detection and Lane Departure Warning.

2015 Nissan Note n-tec has a starting price of £15,365 OTR.

Source: Nissan

February 11, 2015

Mazda Shows the Back of MX-5 Miata Concept Ahead of Chicago Debut

The first-generation MX-5 Miata was introduced in 1989 during the auto saloon in Chicago. Mazda presented there the qualities of the car, which are still incorporated in the current model: it is a fun-to-drive vehicle, which is lightweight, has an open-roof, and it is sports-oriented. Since then more than 949,000 MX-5s were sold and hundreds of awards won.

This year at the same show, Mazda will reveal a 2016 MX-5 accessories design concept. It will give some hints of what the future Miata would look like. In addition, the car will be also equipped with equipment which is intended to appeal to those looking to personalize their vehicle.

For the first time the company will also show three MX-5 merchandise design concepts from Mazda’s upcoming Heritage Collection. These are apparel collections inspired by key themes of the past, present and future of the brand.

We will definitely have to wait until Friday for the full reveal of the car. However, we can get some impression from the teaser image that Mazda gas released. The photo displays the back of the 2016 MX-5 Miata which features exclusive accessories.

At the rear we see new lip spoiler and diffuser-style lower valance. We sincerely hope that it is made of carbon fiber! There is also the typical for the vehicle design, so there is nothing surprisingly different about it.

Except for the debuts, Mazda will be also hosting a number of activities throughout the show. For instance, the visitors of the show will be treated to live ESPN Radio broadcasts with “Carmen and Jurko” and “Waddle and Silvy”.

There will be also free autograph signings with NHL legend Jeremy Roenick, former Chicago Bulls star Stacey King and former “Rookie of the Year” and All-Star Chicago Cubs pitcher Kerry Wood. For those interested in test drives: the latest Mazda vehicles will be held outside of the convention center ready for a ride.

Source: Mazda

February 11, 2015

Mansory Creates 50 Exclusive Bentley Continental GT/C Editions

Mansory Edition 50 is a limited edition parts kit intended for only 50 units of Bentley GT or GTC. The kit itself adds subtle modification, but still it strengthens the luxury characteristics of the car. The stylish bodywork modification sets consists of several design tweaks that need some thorough attention. Looking at the front of this beautiful Bentley, we immediately see a newly designed apron with integrated LED lights. In addition, the new contribute to the powerful and muscular stance of the car.

At the sides, the car definitely looks better thanks to its new Mansory-made side skirts. Continuing with the rear, the one-of-fifty Bentley can show-off with rear spoiler lip and a rear apron with diffuser insert and matching stainless steel exhaust tips.

As you can see nothing looks pretentious or ostentatious and this was Mansory’s goal and the components were effortlessly added to the standard production bodywork. The kit is rounded off by entrance panels with an illuminated logo and number signifying the limited edition.

Mansory made each of these components from carbon fibre via a traditional way using the material in an autoclave. In this process, the carbon sheets are put into moulds and hardened in an autoclave under high pressure at high temperature. The results are the following: improved acceleration, stopping distances and the fuel consumption due to the weight reduction of the car.

At last, wee can’t go by the wheels, which are also in-house-made. They are in double-spoke format and are fitted with low profile tyres. Cheers to this project Mansory!

Source: Mansory

February 10, 2015

Opel Astra with Better Fuel Economy Due to the Addition of 1.6 CDTI Engine

Opel Astra gets additionally enhanced with more economical engine – the 110 hp (81 kW) 1.6 CDTI. The unit emits only 94 grams of CO2 per kilometer and this is equivalent to 3.6 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers. And for those who chose the 100 kW/136 hp output version, Opel has good news, because it is improved and emits only 99 grams of CO2 per kilometer. In addition to this it needs just 3.7 liters of diesel. The more powerful version accelerates the Astra sedan from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.1 seconds and achieves maximum speed of 205 km/h.

After introducing the new gen 1.6 CDTI engine into the Astra, the engineers at Opel have continued working on improving it. This is how it now delivers up to five percent less emissions and consumption while maintaining the same performance.

There are new low-friction components which have been utilized for the chassis and the bodywork. For instance such are the improved drive shafts or the low-rolling-resistance tires. There is also an Aero Package that includes a lowered chassis and active radiator shutters. They help duce aerodynamic drag.

The ‘eco Astras’ are offered in three- and five-door, sedan and Sport Tourer variants. They are equipped with AGR (German Healthy Back Campaign) stamped ergonomic front seats and Opel’s modern IntelliLink infotainment system. Safety premium technologies are also added. They include Opel Eye front camera with Following Distance Indication, Forward Collision Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition and Lane Departure Warning or the rearview camera, Park Assist with parking spot recognition and audiovisual parking assistance, Side Blind Spot Alert and the safety lighting system AFL+.

Source: Opel

February 10, 2015

Hyundai Debuts Special Edition Veloster and Santa Cruz Concept in Chicago

Chicago Motor Show is an event that is to happen in couple of days. Hyundai will show there its “Concept & Technology Garage” that will include 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell, the latest connected car technologies the HCD-15 Santa Cruz Concept that we have seen in Detroit and the SEMA vehicles. In addition, the company will also reveal two new products, one of which was officially confirmed to be a special edition Veloster.

The Santa Cruz Crossover Truck Concept makes its Chicago debut. At the show it will display its characteristics as a new interpretation of truck utility. This fresh concept is intended to appeal to Millennials, whose needs range from expandable utility throughout an active week in the city.

The vehicle is created to shatter convention and offers an extension of personality. One of its key characteristics is the efficiency. The powertrain is the 2.0-liter turbo diesel unit which produces 190 horsepower (140 kW) and 407 Nm (300 lb.-ft.) of torque, but it is capable of achieving fuel economy in the high 30 mpg range. Santa Cruz is also equipped with the HTRAC All-wheel drive system.

For those who haven’t visited the SEMA Show in Las Vegas last year, there is good news: Hyundai will bring five SEMA models to Chicago. These include Blood Type Racing’s Genesis Coupe, Toca Signature Edition “Steel Phoenix” Genesis Sedan, ARK Performance AR550 Genesis Sedan, Bisimoto Engineering Sonata and JP Edition Genesis Coupe.

The next star of the show will be the Tucson Fuel Cell, which “wrote history” as the first mass-produced fuel cell vehicle available for consumer lease. The fuel cell technology replaces the battery pack in EVs by generating electricity from hydrogen.

This is done through an electrochemical process that does not involve hydrogen combustion, with no moving parts within the fuel cell stack. In this way the technology alleviates the limitations of traditional battery electric vehicles and maintains the day-to-day flexibility of the gasoline-powered Tucson.

At last but not least, the attendees of Hyundai’s “Concept & Technology Garage” will have an opportunity to test drive the zero-emissions Tucson Fuel Cell vehicle. They will also see how the company demonstrates the latest suite of in-vehicle technologies of 2015 Sonata: the eight-inch navigation system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Hyundai’s Blue Link smartwatch app.

Source: Hyundai

February 10, 2015

Kia’s New Geneva Concept is Optima Based Plug-in Hybrid?

Kia Optima Concept On 3rd of March Kia will reveal a mysterious stylish new concept vehicle at the 85th Salon International de l’Automobile or the so called Geneva Motor Show. The company announced that the car will be a D-segment model, which is actually the 11th concept car created by Kia’s European design studio in Frankfurt, Germany. As we can see it has a sporty “nose” and is painted in red color that suggests activity and dynamism.

The concept is definitely created for those looking for the perfect vehicle that complements their active lifestyle. Kia also said that the concept is spacious and filled with versatile accessories.

You can also see that the car has confident and powerful lines. They elegantly sweep from Kia’s hallmark ‘tiger-nose’ grille towards the rear of the vehicle.

And if you take a closer look at the teaser image, you’ll be definitely confused, whether you are seeing Kia’s new concept or the Optima model. This is probably a clear sign that the car will be based on it, but will carry with sharper looks and more sporting.

Some of the other details of the concept that need attention are the vents in the wings and sleek look of the side profile. The concept embodies modern design and dramatic energy. It is purposeful and style-conscious, and it seems as it can deliver a sanctuary from the stresses of the modern world.

It is rumored that there will also be a production version of this concept which is expected to be shown at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show in September. Kia will also offer several engine choices including a plug-in hybrid option.

Source: Kia

February 10, 2015

2015 Ford Focus Predicts a Spin Before It Even Begins [VIDEO]

Do you know what is better than a car that helps prevent spinouts once they occur? The answer is in the 2015 Ford Focus, because it can predict a spin before it even begins. The vehicle is getting enhanced by transitional stability technology designed to predict potential vehicle spinouts. This system intervenes earlier than previous once in order to help the driver in case he or she loses control of the car. The new technology uses real-time sensor data to trigger spinout-mitigating braking inputs from vehicle’s electronic stability control. In addition, it combines real-time data from sensors to anticipate a potential spin by 100 to 200 milliseconds.

The stability control technology is active all of the time and determines when a car meets the conditions that may lead to a spin. Then it intervenes early to help prevent the driver from losing control.

This feature is also dubbed enhanced transitional stability technology. It also delivers better handling in highly dynamic driving maneuvers. Important vehicle data like speed, steering wheel position, turn rate of the steering wheel and other input is considered to determine when a skid is imminent.

If there is any risk, braking is applied to individual wheels. This will help the driver keep control over the car and continue on the intended path.

2015 Focus will get at no cost the new transitional stability technology. This innovative system came about when engineers applied an algorithm that was in use with Ford’s Roll Stability Control to the new transitional stability technology. As a result they invented the stability control system that predicts potential spins before they happen.

httpv://youtu.be/DImiqklmSD8

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Ford

February 10, 2015

Author: Lidia Todorova