Lidia Todorova – Page 130 – Automobiles Review

Audi RS 7 Piloted Driving Concept Car

2014 Audi RS 7 Piloted Driving Concept Car is world’s sportiest piloted driving car. At the German Touring Car Masters (DTM) season finale, the concept vehicle will show its dynamic potential and driving characteristics for the first time. Prior to the start the concept car will complete one lap at the Hockenheim ring without a driver. Audi also confirmed that the car is capable of covering a lap time at the race track of just over two minutes and has a lateral acceleration of up to 1.1 g.

The large, five-door coupe is looks just like the production RS 7 model, but its electromechanical power steering, the brakes, the throttle valve and the eight-speed tiptronic that distributes the power to the mechanical quattro drive system are controlled automatically.

During piloted driving, there has to be considered two primary things. The first one is the highly precise orientation of the vehicle on the road, while the second is the absolute control of the vehicle at the handling limits. How this happens? The technology platform utilizes specially corrected GPS signals for orientation on the track.

The data is very accurate and is sent to the vehicle via WLAN according to the automotive standard and redundantly via high-frequency radio. In addition, there are also 3D camera images are compared in real time against graphical information stored on board. The system searches in each of the countless individual images for several hundred known features which then uses as additional positioning information.

Vehicle’s handling limits are controlled via comprehensive on-board networking. The latter is coupled with the highly precise control similar to driving, which enable the technology platform to drive at the physical limits.

The demonstration of the driving capabilities of the RS 7 piloted driving concept car will be shown at the Hockenheimring. There, forces of over 1.3 g occur during braking, and lateral acceleration in the corners can reach 1.1 g. The test at the track suggest that we can expect a top speed of over 240 km/h (149.1 mph) and a lap time of 2 minutes and 10 seconds.

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Audi

October 16, 2014

Vortech Superchargers Makes a mightier 2015 Ford Mustang

Vortech Superchargers has released an upgrade for 2015 Ford Mustang. The tuning specialists have developed a special Vortech V-3 Si centrifugal supercharger, which is capable of supporting up to 775 horsepower (570 kW). Their 78% isentropic efficient compressor deliver cooler running, denser air, and reduced parasitic drive losses. In addition, it also eliminates “nose-over” top end power loss.

To create advanced centrifugal compressor stages, Vortech has utilized a range of design and analytical software tools. Performance quantification and the development happens with the help of the ab SAE J1723 compliant test cell, which has enabled the customizers to fine tune each compressor stage and create compressor maps. The latter are then used for application matching.

If one considers 775 horsepower not enough, then Vortech said that its systems are upgradeable. To go into details, the V-3 for this Ford model includes a self-contained lubrication system with internal oil reservoir as well as a remote fluid drain hose (attached to supercharger) that allows for simple fluid changes without removing the supercharger from the vehicle.

The improvement of the fuel system features high-capacity fuel injectors, and custom Vortech tune that controls ignition timing and fuel enrichment. Furthermore, the integrated oversized air/air charge cooler configuration is what delivers additional horsepower gains, meaning more than 900 hp!

Source: Vortech Superchargers

October 16, 2014

Nissan to Première new Concept SUV at the Sao Paulo Motor Show

Nissan Concept Teaser With this teaser image Nissan wants us to prepare for a special première which will happen at the Sao Paulo Motor Show happening in 28th of October in Brazil. From what we can see, the concept car to be shown at the event is clearly an SUV type of vehicle. Judging by the philosophy of the Japanese brand we are not surprised that it didn’t’ released any additional information about the model, so we will have to wait until the official debut.

The car will be an expansion of company’s current design language. Nevertheless, the size of the concept outline in the teaser image shows that Nissan is probably planning something more masculine and aggressive. Take a look at the high roof and waistline as well as the slab-like doors.

From what we can see from the front end, it appears to be muscular, includes a big bonnet and semi-exposed wheel arches that incorporate the boomerang styled headlights. At the front we can also see a V -shaped grill, which includes the standard Nissan badge and bold chrome surrounding.

Two years ago Nissan hosted the global debut of the designed in Brazil Extrem Concept. We doubt that we are to see a vehicle of this size although we expect that Nissan will have retained the same aggressive looking, and probably the three-door-style.

Source: Nissan

October 16, 2014

#DS3byNight is “Light-Painting” Digital Campaign for DS3 [VIDEO]

Citroen’s sub-brand DS has launched an innovative campaign called #DS3byNight digital campaign, which is inspired by DS 3 and comes to show-off its new Xenon & Full LED light signature. As a matter of fact, this is the first communications campaign which utilizes the Pixelstick ‘light painting’ technology that practically made the video below possible. This technology allows the DS3 to bring pictures and words to light in spectacular fashion. The result is a light-filled film, which highlights the DS world of luxury and which takes viewers on a night time tour in Paris.

Echoing the Xenon and Full LED technologies that we have seen in the new DS 3 headlamps, the DS brand is utilizing this new ‘light painting’ technology to project detailed patterns and a range of animations, in a series of time lapse films. As you can see for yourself below, the result is a spectacular showcase for the light signature of DS 3, which in addition showcases brand’s values of elegance and advanced technology.

The innovative film will also be supported by an interactive social media campaign. In it users will create their own messages, which in turn will be brought to light against backgrounds of classic Parisian scenes. This will happen over a ten-day period until 22 October.

2014 Citroen DS3 and DS3 Cabrio models were enhanced at the end of May this year. It is when they have adopted the new high-tech light signature, featuring the combination of LED and Xenon lightning technologies with new sequential indicators. The new headlights deliver greater visibility in both low- and high-beam positions. Three LED modules and a Xenon module were used for the design of this wide and uniform beam.

In addition, the new headlights also minimize the energy consumption by 35% when they operate in low-beam mode and by 75% – in high-beam. They are capable of life time of over 20,000 hours, or in other words – twenty times longer than halogen lights. LED DRLs in the front air intakes complete the new light signature. Facelifted DS3 models also have 3D-effect LED rear lights.

httpv://youtu.be/iMudVfX67PQ

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Citroen

October 16, 2014

Honda Shows 2015 F1 Power Unit [VIDEO]

Honda has just released first details and looks of the forthcoming power unit, which is now under development for the 2015 FIA1 Formula One (F1) World Championship. In fact, the company has released a film during the 2014 FIA Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix, previewing the F1 power unit under development. The video features the sound of the engine revving and you can view it below.

In it you will see a lot of graphics, which give a hint towards Honda’s past, and then point forward to the future. In the simulated lap is where you will hear the sound of the engine. What is concerning is that the rev seems to be unchanged and even less than the current engines.

At the R&D facility in Sakura in Japan, is where Honda is developing the 2015 F1 power unit. There it is conducting simulations as well as full-fledged bench tests of the engine while connecting the turbocharger and energy recovery systems.

At the same time, the racing operation base in Milton Keynes in the United Kingdom, has become fully operational. And the whole team is concentrating on this development, getting ready for the forthcoming start of F1 participation in 6 months.

Judging from previous years, we do expect to see a small direct-injection V6 engine which will be working together with two electric motors. One will be working with a KERS recovery system, while the other will power the turbocharger. There are no official details so far, but we definitely expect to see a figure of more than 600 horsepower. Enjoy the video!

httpv://youtu.be/dMk5Jtd3yS4

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Honda

October 16, 2014

Hamann Offers new Styling for BMW M4 F82

The news about Hamann BMW M4 F82 came so exclusively that it only came in images. In the gallery below you are about to see the latest project of the tuner, which looks incredibly well. The pictures clearly show that there have been added some styling parts for the coupe. Unfortunately, Hamann hasn’t revealed yet any details about the package, which visibly includes a lot of carbon fiber elements.

To be more precise, from this material are made the front lip spoiler, rear diffuser, side skirts, new hood and an adjustable rear wing. The rims are also very special, come in contrasting shade and are multispoke. They have been coupled with low-profile tyres. Nothing has been said about an engine upgrade or chassis’s modification, despite the fact that Hamann is a specialist for engine tuning.

As a matter of fact, there is little need to tweak the powerplant of the M4, which is the 3.0 liter TwinPower Turbo Inline six-cylinder. It produces 431 horsepower (317 kW) at 5,500RPM and 550Nm (406 lb-ft) of maximum torque at 1,850RPM. The unit is coupled with a six-speed manual gearbox and helps the BMW cover the 0-100 km/h acceleration sprint in only 4.3 seconds on its way to a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

Acceleration time becomes even better, when the car is fitted with the optional seven-speed ///M DCT. Precisely, it is 4.1 seconds for the 0-100 km/h sprint. In addition to this, the M4 is able to cover 100 km with just 8.8 liters of fuel in the combined cycle with the manual transmission and 8.3 liter with the DCT. The official details about Hamann BMW M4 F82 are expected to be soon revealed, so we have to wait little more to get the idea of what the interior of this customized M4 will look like.

Source: Hamann

October 15, 2014

Fiat Releases Exclusive 500X Opening Edition

Fiat 500X Opening Edition is a limited edition and top of the range model which will be produced in only 2000 examples. It will be offered in two exteriors: the first one is more “urban” in Art Grey, the other in tri-coat red. The car will be sold in Europe and will also be available in three versions: two 4×2 options with the 140 hp (103 kW) 1.4 Turbo MultiAir II or the 120 hp (88 kW) 1.6 MultiJet II engines, and one 4×4 with the 140 hp (103 kW) 2.0 MultiJet II engine.

The model with the 4×2 drive system includes the pastel Art Grey livery, and also adds an exclusive selection of equipment such as automatic climate control and 18″ alloy rims. As a standard here is featured the “Safety Pack” which comprises of a wide range of active safety systems such as anti-collision, a lane change assistance system to get around blind spots, a lane departure warning system, a rear camera for reversing.

There are also a Comfort Pack that ensures maximum on-board plus the Keyless Entry & Keyless Go system, tinted rear windows and the Opening Edition badge. The second version is covered with the exclusive tri-coat Amore Red. It features the 4×4 drive system with a 140 hp 2.0 MultiJet II engine mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission.

As a standard, the model features wealth of exclusive content, ranging from the navigation pack to the two-tone red and black leather interiors, visibility pack with rain and dusk sensors, electrically folding door mirrors, an electrochromic rear view mirror, steering wheel gear controls and the Opening Edition badge.

Fiat 500X will be available in dealerships in early 2015. The Opening Edition has a starting price of 21,900 Euro.

Source: Fiat

October 15, 2014

2015 Honda Civic Si Coupe and Sedan Go on Sale

2015 Civic Si Sedan and Coupe offer the deeply desired combination of sporty style and performance with high-tech features, quality and value. The models are currently on sale at the dealerships across the United States. Both the coupe and the sedan have been substantially upgraded for the new model year. This means that they now deliver even more powers, retuned suspension, and also feature interior refinements and new driver assistive features.

Both variants of the Civic Si are powered by the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which produces 205 horsepower (150 kW) and 235 Nm (174 lb-ft) of torque on tap. The unit is coupled with a slick shifting close-ratio six-speed manual transmission and sport-tuned suspension. Inside, the cabin is adorned by a sport-themed premium interior and includes high tech features such as the standard seve-inch touchscreen Display Audio, Honda LaneWatch and review camera.

Just a few days ago Honda has announced the market launch of another of its vehicles – the CR-Z, which is not only at a great value but also offers satisfying efficiency. The latter is due to the powertrain which is the 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine with Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) electric motor.

The powerplant is mated to either a short-throw six-speed manual transmission or sport-tuned continuously variable transmission (CVT) with paddle shifters. The combined peak horsepower of the engine and motor is 130 horsepower (95 kW) while the maximum torque is rated at 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) or 172 Nm (127 lb-ft) on CVT models.

TRIM	MSRP1	EPA Fuel Economy Ratings4 (city/highway/combined)

Civic Si Coupe 6MT	$22,890	22/31/25
Civic Si Coupe 6MT w/ Summer Tires	$23,090	22/31/25
Civic Si Coupe 6MT w/ Navi	$24,390	22/31/25
Civic Si Coupe 6MT w/ Summer Tires & Navi	$24,590	22/31/25
Civic Si Sedan 6MT	$23,090	22/31/25
Civic Si Sedan 6MT w/ Summer Tires	$23,290	22/31/25
Civic Si Sedan 6MT w/ Navi	$24,590	22/31/25

Source: Honda

October 15, 2014

Mopar Teases SEMA-bound Vehicles Ahead of Official Reveal

SEMA Show is to happen very soon and many companies are showing first glimpses of what we are to expect from them. Mopar too has released sketches of its modified Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram, and Fiat vehicles, which are to be premiered at the event in Las Vegas. To be more precise, Mopar will display several innovative show vehicles, about which it didn’t say anything but only showed images.

At the Convention center the brand is filling a big space measuring 15,345-square-foot, where will be exhibited improvements of the large segment of Fiat portfolio. Precisely, the vehicles on the stand include Poison Dodge Dart R/T Concept, Viper ACR Concept, Challenger T/A Concept, Fiat Abarth Scorpion, Chrysler 200S Mopar Concept, Dodge Charger Mopar Concept, Fiat 500L Custom, Jeep Renegade Trailhawk Frostbite, Renegade Limited Rip Tide, Ram ProMaster, and Ram 2500 Outdoorsman.

Specifically, the greatest interest is expected to be provoked by the Poison Dart R/T Concept, Challenger T/A Concept, Fiat Abarth Scorpion, and the Viper ACR Concept. These concepts also hint towards future production variants.

And if you want more details on the vehicles that are to be exhibited at SEMA, well you have to wait a little longer just before the show, when Mopar will probably reveal most of the cars online. If this does not happen, then the event is to start on 4^th of November. Stay tuned!

Source: Mopar

October 15, 2014

TEASER: New Audi Concept Car to Debut at Los Angeles Auto Show

The new era of Audi’s automotive design is just around the corner. The company has released the first teaser of a feature car, prepared for an official reveal at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The event is starting on 19th of November. The new concept vehicle marks a new beginning in Audi Design both in terms of exterior and interior.

What’s more, this is the first show car from Marc Lichte. He was appointed Head of Audi Design in February, who has promised to communicate the technical competence and uncompromising product quality of the German car maker.

Unfortunately, the released image doesn’t say much about the model. It is darkened and shows only the contours of the car. However, we are almost sure that such a concept vehicle will probably go into production if the public acclaim is good. Such instances in the history of Audi are the TT Coupe, R8 model and the Q7.

We also have another guess that the car will also preview the new A9 model. Lichte said that the new models will be immediately recognizable as Audi’s. This means that they will retain the emblematic signature single frame grille. If this car is a concept version of the A9, this means that it will be the top of the range model, sitting above the existing A8.

Source: Audi

October 15, 2014

G-Power Introduces the Mighty BMW M6 F06 Gran Coupe

G-Power BMW M6 F06 Gran Coupe is the latest addition in the garage of the tuners. The biggest change they have made is via their G-Power Bi-Tronik, which is increasing the power output of the M6 Gran Coupe to the staggering 740 hp (544 kW) and 975 Nm (720 lb-ft) of torque. This means a power enhancement of 150 hp and 210 Nm of torque. G-Power uses individual solution for the engine thanks to which the amount of fuel and the ignition timing were modified.

Precisely, these modifications were made by a micro-processor that is patched in before the standard BMW ECU. In addition, ASA supercharger was used for the supercharger systems and the exhaust system has been substantially reworked and now feature cover catalysts replacement pipes and a Titanium exhaust system. The deep and throaty sound is what also complements the addition of this exhaust.

The increase on power also results in faster acceleration time. The figure from stand still to 200 km/h is now just 10,5 seconds and the top speed is more than 300 km/h. In terms of suspension, first to notice are the 21 inch G-Power Hurricane RR forged wheels, wrapped with Michelin tyres in the dimensions 255/30 ZR 21 and 295/25 ZR 21 for the front and rear, respectively. The handling is further improved via the continuously height-adjustable coil-over suspension GM6-RS with nine selectable settings each for bound and rebound.

Furthermore, there has been also added a new G-Power Braking System with six brake pistons and 420 mm brake disc diameter for the front axle. Additionally, the ceramic braking system reduces the unsprung mass by 50% percent, compared to a system with steel brake discs.

The interior of this BMW was also reworked entirely and now features exclusive accessories. Take as an example the ergonomically formed sports steering wheel or instruments in G-Power design, the noble carbon-leather fitments. The tuners have covered the plastic surfaces of the standard production M6 cockpit with leather or Alcantara. The visual highlights inside are the illuminated G-Power logos spread throughout the interior.

The new interior is rounded out by the addition of an exclusive multimedia entertainment system which includes audio system, electric powered iPads in the rear of the front seats, a lowerable main monitor from the headlining and an Apple iMac.

Source: G-Power

October 14, 2014

Techart Porsche Cayman Shows-Off with new Rear Spoiler II

Techart Porsche Cayman now can be proud of its most distinctive part: Techart’s Rear Spoiler II, which is part of the Aerodynamic Program of the tuning company for the current Cayman models. The rear spoiler emphasizes the flat outline and short overhangs of the mid-engine sports car. At the same time it takes the aesthetic and technical requirements into account equally, making the car look more spectacular than ever.

The new addition to the aerodynamic kit determines Porsche Cayman models visually and in addition, it delivers dynamics and strength to the mid-engine sports car’s flat outline. To be more precise, the characteristic wing profile as well as the base console underneath with functional spoiler lip is made of high-quality PU-RIM material.

In addition, filigree aluminium uprights with Techart logotype is what allows the driver to adapt the wing profile’s angle manually. This means that the effective aerodynamic surface can be adjusted regarding the driving conditions, or just by the individual preferences of the driver. When combined with tuning company’s Front Spoiler I, the Rear Spoiler II generates ideal handling behaviour.

The latest addition in the Cayma range was the GTS specificatioin. It is powered by a 3.4 liter flat-six engine, delivering 340 horsepower (250 kW) and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque. The Cayman GTS needs just 4.6 seconds to cover the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h on its way to a top speed of 285 km/h (177 mph).

Source: Techart

October 14, 2014

Author: Lidia Todorova