Author: Lidia Todorova

  • Carlsson Tunes the AMG Version of Mercedes-Benz C-Class

    2014-Carlsson-Mercedes-Benz-C-Class-AMG-W205-THUBMWe are already very well familiar with Carlsson’s tuning involving the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. However, what we haven’t seen yet is how the customizing specialists will handle the AMG version of the car. The stunning result of their work, 2014 Carlsson Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG W205, is a re-interpretation of the sporty AMG Sports Package version, with a stunning conversion that comprising of an aerodynamic styling package.

    The package includes adjustable sports suspension, alloy wheels in classic design as well as a myriad of bespoke interior trim possibilities. Performance improvements for all the engine variants are currently under development.

    Despite the sporty and confident appearance of the C-Class AMG, Carlsson’s designers have additionally enhanced the looks of the car with their own distinctive styling signature. The goal was to extend the original theme harmoniously. At the front we see this philosophy working via the replacement of the separate air-splitter of the AMG front apron with Carlsson spoiler lip.

    At the back of this tuned Mercedes, we see an elegantly shaped spoiler that sits on the edge of the bootlid. The underbody air diffuser can either be colour-coded or painted in a contrasting colour. Each side of the diffuser includes a cutout that frames a pair of Carlsson’s signature exhaust tailpipes.

    The engineers at Carlsson have developed two levels of suspension upgrades. The first one is the basic option, which comprises of a set of four Carlsson sports springs that work with the standard dampers. They serve in terms of lowering the ride height by 30mm for a sportier look and better handling. The second option is a height adjustable coil-over suspension kit. It allows the driver the ability to adjust the ride height as well as bounce and rebound control.

    This Carlson model runs on Carlsson 1/10 wheels in either a Brilliant or Titanium Editions. There is also 1/10 Graphite Edition and 1/16 RS Diamond and Titanium Editions, which are also available.

    Inside, the interior of the vehicle includes polished aluminium scuff plates with an illuminated Carlsson logo for driver and aluminium door lock pins, pedal set and footrest, all with the logo. There is also a four-piece floor mat set from soft black velour. It features front mats carrying tuning company’s logo in white stitching. The available illuminated floor mats set is made of soft velour. Here the Carlsson logo is illuminated in stylish white on the front mats.

    Source: Carlsson

     

  • ARK Performance to Show Hyundai Genesis AR550 at SEMA

    ARK-Performance-Hyundai-Genesis-AR550-THUMBAll lights now are on ARK Performance which has released some details around their SEMA-bound project. Tuning company’s Genesis AR550 sedan is getting readied for the iconic show and more importantly, taking the 2015 Genesis V8’s great performance to a whole new level. This is the sixth project for the customizing specialists, involving a Hyundai vehicle modification for SEMA. So this year they have decided to inject the Genesis with performance characteristics on par with German super-sedan rivals like Mercedes-Benz AMG and BMW M.

    Of course, being familiar with ARK’s other projects, we know that they focus on the combination of supercharged power with head-turning design, which sets a new standard for Hyundai performance. The exterior for instance now features several modifications in order to accommodate the larger wheels.

    This wider stance, coupled with a lowered suspension setup that results in more aggressive appearance. “AR Line” exterior modifications feature front and rear wide bumpers and fenders, a carbon fiber splitter and rear diffuser and AR headlights. Inside, the car has also been revised. The business jet-like interior is accomplished through Katzkin custom diamond-stitched seats and door panels.

    The car uses Hyundai’s 5.0-liter V8 engine as the powertrain’s foundation. ARK Performance has added to it 130 horsepower via the inclusion of a Rotrex supercharger and ARK free-flow exhaust. The new ARK-developed suspension setup reduces body roll and delivers sportier ride. The Brembo Big Brake Kit with Nitto Tires it what rounds-out this customization.

    ARK Performance Hyundai Genesis AR550 will be unveiled at Hyundai’s SEMA press conference on 4th of November.

    ARK Performance Hyundai Genesis AR550 Specifications and Details:

    DRIVETRAIN MODIFICATIONS

    • Hyundai Tau 5.0L V8 Engine
    • Rotrex Supercharger
    • ARK Performance Intake System
    • ARK ‘AR line’ Carbon Engine Cover
    • ARK Downpipes
    • ARK High-Flow Catted Test Pipe
    • ARK GRiP Exhaust System
    • Upgraded Engine Management
    • ARK Race Spec Driveshaft
    • Engine Upgrade and Installation

    CHASSIS/SUSPENSION MODIFICATIONS

    • ARK Front Strut Reinforcement Bar
    • ARK Front / Rear Stiffened Sway Bars
    • Airrex Premium Air Suspension System
    • ARK Knuckles and Control Arms
    • Brembo Big Brake Kit (Front / Rear)
    • ARK Lightweight Forged Wheels
    • Nitto Tire NT05 Summer Tires

    EXTERIOR MODIFICATIONS

    • AR Aero package by Infinite Auto Design
    • AR550 Wide Front Bumper w/ Carbon Fiber
    • AR550 Wide Rear Bumper w/ Carbon Fiber
    • AR550 Wide Front / Rear Fenders
    • AR550 Side Skirts w/ Carbon Fiber
    • AR550 Rear Trunk Decklid
    • AR550 Design / Mold
    • AR550 Crystal Project Headlights Upgrade
    • AR550 Exterior Welcome Lighting

    INTERIOR MODIFICATIONS

    • Katzkin Custom Diamond Stitched Seats
    • Katzkin Custom Diamond Stitched Panels

    Source: Hyundai 

  • Kia is Premiering Diesel-Electric Optima T-Hybrid in Paris

    Kia Optima T-Hybrid Concept is previewing new powertrain technology ahead of future mass production. The official reveal of the car will happen just in lees than two days at the 2014 Paris Motor Show. There, Kia will also make the first application and demonstration of the brand’s innovative hybrid powertrain.

    T-Hybrid stands for turbo hybrid. In details, this Kia concept is driven by the model’s existing 1.7-litre CRDi turbo-diesel engine, coupled with a small electric motor. The latter is powered by a 48V lead-carbon battery. Optima T-Hybrid can be driven only in electric mode at low speeds and when cruising. The deceleration here serves in terms of recharging the battery pack.

    Lead-carbon batteries were chosen for the powertrain. They do not require active cooling and are easier to recycle. Of course, being a Hybrid vehicle, it includes zero-emissions stop-start system. There is also a belt-driven starter generator that replaces the conventional alternator. Vehicle’s battery is smaller, thus enhancing weight distribution and handling.

    The innovative electric supercharger for the CRDi engine delivers improved power and torque at all engine speeds. The electric supercharger in particular helps to boost torque and engine response at low engine speeds. Another interesting fact is that at the moment, Optima T-Hybrid’s 136 hp 1.7-litre engine produces CO2 emissions of 128 g/km. These figures will change over time, due to current development of the technology.

    Kia has no plans to run Optima T-Hybrid Concept as a production model at the moment. T-Hybrid powertrain is still under consideration for new Kia models in the future.

    Source: Kia

     

  • Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat VIN0001 Raises $1.65 Million for Charity

    Dodge-Challenger-SRT-Hellcat-VIN0001-THUMBThe first production Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat with VIN0001 has been auctioned at Barrett-Jackson in Las Vegas for $825,000 USD. The proceeds will benefit the Opportunity Village. This is a not-for-profit organization that serves people with significant intellectual disabilities in the Las Vegas area. Rick Hendrick, who is the owner of Hendrick Motorsports and several Chrysler Group dealerships, was the winning bidder at the auction.

    What is more, the Engelstad Family Foundation of Las Vegas matched the auction price, bringing the grand total raised for Opportunity Village to $1.65 million US dollars. This is a historical moment, because with this generous donation, the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat raised more money for charity than any other car in Barrett-Jackson history.

    The most powerful muscle car ever built will also make a powerful impact on the people who benefit from the services of Opportunity Village. The VIN0001 muscle car is also the ultimate collectible. This one-of-one special edition is powered by the 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V-8 engine delivering 707 horsepower (520 kW) and 880 Nm (650 lb.-ft.) of torque.

    The car also has a 0001 vehicle identification number (VIN) as well as an NHRA-certified quarter-mile time of 10.8 seconds at 126 mph with drag radials. In addition, this is the only Dodge Challenger to ever have a Viper-exclusive Stryker Red exterior. It has been hand-painted at the Dodge Viper paint facility and it includes special Hellcat badging on the instrument panel and supercharger, specific VIN documentation and one-of-a-kind memorabilia.

    The powertrain of the Challenger SRT Hellcat VIN0001 is coupled with a class-exclusive TorqueFlite eight-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission with rev-matching downshifts. The car also features 15.4-inch Brembo front disc brakes with two-piece rotors and six-piston calipers, and 20-by-9.5-inch lightweight matte black forged-aluminum wheels.

    The interior is with new design and trimmed in premium Black Laguna leather on performance-oriented seats. Inside, there is also a modern dash layout including the 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen and an authentic forged-aluminum supercharger plenum cover under the hood.

    Furthermore, the auction package also features a 6.2-liter supercharger engine cover and a HEMI Orange painted base presentation box with a VIN0001 electronic vehicle build book and a video documentary on an iPad mini that shows the step-by-step build process of the car. And if you wonder what is in the presentation box, well Dodge says that there are  still shots, vehicle footage, a customized key fob holder, an authentic Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat embossed Laguna Leather iPad sleeve, a SRT Hellcat lithograph and unique “birth certificate” for VIN0001.

    Source: Dodge 

  • Ford Mustang 50 Year Limited Edition Sold for $170,000 at Barrett-Jackson

    Ford-Mustang-GT-50-Year-Limited-Edition-THUMBThe last production Ford Mustang GT 50 Year Limited Edition model with the badge No. 1,964 has been fetched $170,000 USD at the Barrett-Jackson Las Vegas auction. The proceeds will benefit “Get Your Heart Racing” fundraising event that supports Henry Ford Health System’s Edith and Benson Ford Heart & Vascular Institute.

    The winner of the bidding is Jack Fairchild. He is not only the proud owner of one of the rarest of this limited stock, but we must highlight that he has also made an important contribution to the health and well-being of individuals across the United States.

    This limited edition Mustang is based on the 2015 Mustang GT fastback but includes a performance package. 50 Years Limited Edition delivers outstanding performance and unique appearance.

    It is driven by the upgraded 5.0-liter V8 engine, which produces 420 horsepower (310 kW) and 530 Nm (390 lb.-ft.) f torque. Every 50 Year Limited Edition will be equipped with the Mustang GT performance pack, which includes six-piston Brembo front brakes and 19-inch alloy wheels fitted with high-performance Y-speed-rated Pirelli P-Zero summer tires.

    Inside, there is a distinctive aluminum trim panel that spans the double-brow instrument panel and gets an axel spin finish. A special serialized 50 Year Limited Edition badge on the passenger side adds also to the uniqueness of the model. This limited-edition Mustang is the only model with a cashmere-stitched, leather-wrapped steering wheel. The same stitching is also applied on the instrument panel, shifter boot, center armrest, door inserts and seats.

    Ford and Barrett-Jackson have raised more than $6 million US dollars at various auctions benefiting local and national charities.

    Source: Ford 

  • 2015 Honda Civic Type R Concept Previews the Next-Gen Hatch

    2015-Honda-Civic-Type-R-THUMB2015 Honda Civic Type R is debuting at the Paris Motor Show and we can’t hide that we are eagerly anticipating it. Just a couple of days ahead of the official premiere, Honda has released additional further details of the iconic Type R. The Japanese company is promising that this version of the model will be the most extreme and high-performing Type R in the 22 year history of the red ‘H’ badge.

    Straight to the details, the Civic Type R will be powered by a 2.0-litre i-VTEC engine. This powertrain comes from Honda’s next-generation Earth Dreams Technology series. It generates more than 280 horsepower (205 kW), thus delivering unmatched performance when compared to the previous generations. The engine of this Civic model will be coupled with a six-speed manual transmission.

    In addition, the model will be fully complying with strict Euro 6 emissions regulations. The new unit benefits from a turbocharger, which boosts low-end power delivery. With the addition of the VTEC technology, this Type R promises to deliver a sensational driving experience.

    Another debut in the 2015 Type R will make the new ‘+R’ button, which is located to the side of the steering wheel. The ‘+R’ mode will deliver the most exhilarating driving experience. In this mode, the engine responsiveness is heightened, with torque-mapping changed to a more aggressive and performance-focused setting. Additionally, the steering becomes more responsive, and when it is combined with the new four-point Adaptive Damper System, it offers the ultimate handling experience.

    The second instance for company’s innovative approach is car’s ‘steer axis’. The new Type R’s front suspension system includes this additional mechanical system, which features two supporting ‘kingpins’ that work to decrease torque steer. This in turn allows the driver to fully exploit the Type R‘s driveability.

    Honda also revealed that the Type R will be equipped with new four-point Adaptive Damper System. It has been specifically developed for the new Type R. The system automatically adjusts front and rear suspension damping force stiffness in a split second, in order to suit driving conditions.

    2015 Honda Civic Type R has been designed and engineered for European drivers, and will be arriving in dealerships in 2015.

    Source: Honda

     

  • 2015 Volkswagen Passat GTE is a Plug-in Hybrid Debuting in Paris

    Volkswagen-Passat-GTE-THUMBVolkswagen Passat GTE is to make European première at the Paris Motor Show this week. This is one of the most innovative cars in its class, being equipped with progressive drive, assistance and infotainment systems. The special thing about the GTE is that it is the first Passat with a plug-in hybrid drive system, thus delivering zero-emission. The long-distance vehicle will be offered as a saloon or estate.

    To go into details, the GTE uses a combination of a turbocharged direct injection petrol engine (TSI) with an electric motor, which is supplied with energy from an externally chargeable lithium-ion battery. This battery can ensure that the Passat GTE covers a distance of up to 31 miles in all-electric mode and with zero emissions.

    A contrast to the aforementioned “E-Mode”, there is also a “GTE” mode. In this mode, the Passat delivers a maximum system output of 218 hp (160 kW). Furthermore, the 1.4-litre TSI engine develops a power of 156 hp (115 kW), while the electric motor produces 85 kW. The maximum torque of the entire system is 400 Nm (295 lb-ft).

    Passat GTE comes as a standard equipped with a front-wheel drive and a six-gear dual clutch gearbox especially developed for the hybrid drive. It accelerates the vehicle from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in less than 8.0 seconds. The top speed is 136 mph; in “E-Mode” – 80 mph. When this plug-in hybrid Volkswagen goes in production, it will include a total of nine drive versions, covering a power range from 125 hp (92 kW) to 280 hp (206 kW).

    What is more, this GTE Passat will also get as standard equipment many features such as LED headlights, Driver Alert System, Automatic Post-Collision Braking system, Front Assist including City Emergency Braking function, rain sensor and ParkPilot. The car can be recognized by a specific chrome radiator grille unit with additional blue line. The front bumper was also redesigned, and now features distinctive cross panels in the lower air inlet and C-shaped LED daytime running lights. From the side one can see 17-inch “Astana” alloy wheels.

    Inside, some the interior features include “Composition Media” infotainment system, innovative Active Info Display with specific displays, blue ambient lighting, leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel with blue decorative stitching, GTE specific gear knob with blue stitching and seats covered in “Sevilla” cloth with a blue basic structure. Moreover, the interior was improved by the “Waves” design, which is an aluminium look, and “Piano Black” (high-gloss black) as well as a GTE logo in front of the gear shift gate.

    The new Passat GTE will feature high resolution 6.5-inch display of the standard “Composition Media” infotainment system. As an option, the German company is offering “Discover Media” that also comprises of a 6.5-inch display, and “Discover Pro” radio-navigation systems with an 8.0-inch display.

    2015 Volkswagen Passat GTE is to be launched in the second half of next year in saloon and an estate version.

    Source: Volkswagen 

  • Vorsteiner Introduces BMW F82 M4 GTS Edition

    Vorsteiner-BMW-F82-M4-GTS-Edition-THUMBVorsteiner BMW F82 M4 GTS Edition is another example that for decades the iconic BMW M-Series is the driving force of automotive fascination – both in terms of design and performance.  The specialists at Vorsteiner decided to do an expansion program which will fit both the M3 and M4. Under their expertise were the latest generation F80 M3 and F82 M4. And as you can judge by the pictures below – the result is stunning.

    The experts in lightweight construction and strength optimization have specifically developed parts that keep their principles: forward thinking, evolution of automobiles, and value of personal diversity. In particular, the new F8x carbon fiber rear diffuser is a particularly complex feature of ingenuity.  The reason for this lies in the fact that it is very difficult to manufacture such slender fins, rarely seen in a single monocoque construction carbon diffuser.

    In fact, all of the aerodynamic components were engineered and designed with the help of 3D alias software in conjunction with the blue light laser scanning technology and 5 axis CNC milling machines for rapid prototyping.

    The chassis for the F8x M3 and M4 chassis includes matte black Sport Challenge Forged VSC-101 Monoblock Wheels that come in size 20×10 inches at the front, and 20×11 inches at the rear. The alloys come coupled with Michelin Pilot Super Sports in the dimensions of 275/30/20 and 295/30/20 at the front and rear respectively.

    This Vorsteiner GTS Edition also got carbon add-on front spoiler, custom livery foil kit, embroidered velour floor mats for the interior as well as exclusive stainless dual walled exhaust tips in brushed or diamond black finish.

    Source: Vorsteiner

  • McLaren 625C Intended Only for the Asian Market

    McLaren-625C-THUMBMcLaren 625C is company’s first regionally tailored model which aims to conquer the Asian market. The new car promises the greatest of refinement of any McLaren model up to date. This of course will come in combination with the enhanced driving dynamics. The 625C model is being launched in response to demand from customers in the Asian region. The vehicle shares the same visuals as the 650S, but has somewhat more focus on day-to-day usability and comfort.

    The ProActive Chassis Control and the suspension hardware have been refined, thus delivering optimized driving dynamics and ride quality. The name of the 625C refers to the power output – the 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 powerplant, which produces 625 hp (460 kW), while the ‘C’, stands for ‘Club’. In fact, the McLaren 625C has several technical benefits when compared to the 650S.

    First, enhancements have been made to driveability and efficiency with engine torque of 610Nm (450 lb-ft). Second, the acceleration time from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) is only just 3.1 seconds, while to 200 km/h (124 mph) – 8.8 seconds (for the Coupé). The maximum speed mirrors that of the 650S, which is 333 km/h (207mph) (329 km/h (204 mph) for Spider). The CO2 emissions have been rated at 275 g/km.

    The refined ride is ensured by the updated dampers and revised mechanical balance. In addition, the less stiff spring rate at the rear ensures a sharp response with no loss in ride comfort through the ProActive Chassis Control system in ‘Normal’ mode. There is also no compromise regarding handling or performance in ‘Sport’ and ‘Track’ modes.

    McLaren 625C in Coupe and Spider bodystyles are currently being launched in Hong Kong.

    McLaren 625C Coupe Technical Specification:

    Drivetrain Layout Longitudinal Mid-Engine, RWD Track, F/R (mm) 1656 / 1583
    Engine Configuration V8 Twin Turbo / 3799cc Length (mm) 4512
    EnginePS / rpm 625 / 7250 Width (mm) 2093
    Torque Nm / rpm 610 / 3000-7000 Height (mm) 1199
    Transmission 7 Speed SSG Dry Weight (kg / lbs) 1336 / 2945
    Body Structure Carbon Fibre MonoCell withAluminium Front and Rear Frames Active Aerodynamics McLaren Airbrake
    Wheelbase (mm) 2670 Suspension ProActive Chassis Control
    Brakes Cast Iron Discs with Forged Aluminium Hubs (F 370mm/R 350mm) ProActive Chassis Control modes Normal / Sport / Track
    Tyres (F/R) Pirelli P Zero™235/35 R19/Pirelli P Zero™305/30 R20 Powertrain Modes Winter / Normal / Sport / Track
    Wheel Sizes (F/R) 19” x 8.5”J / 20” x 11” J

    Performance Data:

    Efficiency CO2 275 g/km
    Fuel consumption (combined) 24.2 mpg
    Power to weight – with lightweight options 480PS (473 bhp) /tonne
    CO2/power 0.45 g/km per PS
    Speed Maximum speed 333 km/h (207 mph)
    Acceleration 0-100 kph (62 mph) 3.1 s
    0-200 kph (124 mph) 8.8 s
    0-300 kph (186 mph) 26.7 s
    0-400m / ¼ mile 10.6s @136 mph

    McLaren 625C Spider Technical Specification:

    Drivetrain Layout Longitudinal Mid-Engine, RWD Track, F/R (mm) 1656 / 1583
    Engine Configuration V8 Twin Turbo / 3799cc Length (mm) 4512
    EnginePS / rpm 625 / 7250 Width (mm) 2093
    Torque Nm / rpm 610 / 3000-7000 Height (mm) 1199
    Transmission 7 Speed SSG Dry Weight (kg / lbs) 1376 / 3034
    Body Structure Carbon Fibre MonoCell withAluminium Front and Rear Frames Active Aerodynamics McLaren Airbrake
    Wheelbase (mm) 2670 Suspension ProActive Chassis Control
    Brakes Cast Iron Discs with Forged Aluminium Hubs (F 370mm/R 350mm) ProActive Chassis Control modes Normal / Sport / Track
    Tyres (F/R) Pirelli P Zero™235/35 R19/Pirelli P Zero™305/30 R20 Powertrain Modes Winter / Normal / Sport / Track
    Wheel Sizes (F/R) 19” x 8.5”J / 20” x 11” J

    Performance Data:

    Efficiency CO2 275 g/km
    Fuel consumption (combined) 24.2 mpg
    Power to weight – with lightweight options 466 PS (459 bhp) /tonne
    CO2/power 0.44 g/km per PS
    Speed Maximum speed 329 km/h (204 mph)
    Acceleration 0-100 kph (62 mph) 3.1 s
    0-200 kph (124 mph) 9.0 s
    0-300 kph (186 mph) 27.7 s
    0-400m / ¼ mile 10.8s @134 mph

    Source: McLaren

     

  • Evanta Motor Company Unveils First Production Barchetta Model

    Evanta-Barchetta-THUMBEvanta Barchetta 6.2L has been finally launched this week at the Goodwood Revival Show. The British custom motorcar designer Evanta Motor Company has unveiled its first production model. It is a two-seater open top speedster, which was inspired by the design language and trend of the 1950s and specifically by the motorsport cars. It has the same sleek and sweeping curves as well as low profile typical for the 50s sports vehicles, and in particular – those who had Anglo-Italian parentage.The formal reveal of the model took place on 12th of September at Goodwood Revival, with members of the Evanta Barchetta production team in attendance.  Each Barchetta is designed and built in Britain. In addition, it was hand-crafted via traditional coach building methods, comprising a composite body on a tubular frame.Just like its Le Mans winning ancestors, the Barchetta is equipped with a powerful 6.2L engine. The unit produces 450 hp (330 kW), and by taking into account its light frame, this amount of horsepower gives the car exceptional agility.The company has also announced that it will produce both left- and right-hand drive variants. On addition, Barchetta will be offered with either an automatic or manual gearbox. The annual production of the model will be strictly limited to 24 cars per year, with a total production run of only 99 vehicles.

  • HOT: Vilner Reveals BMW Stormtrooper

    One year ahead of the premiere of Star Wars 7, the new Stormtrooper is here. The next George Lucas movie will be released in theaters next year, but the Bulgarian studio Vilner has already warmed-up the premiere with its latest project – the Stormtrooper. When you see it you will immediately understand why it carries that name. With its sparkling white color and with power hidden in its forms, the car is reminiscent of the Imperial Army troops of Darth Vader. Unlike the numerous army of Lord Vader, BMW Stormtrooper by Vilner is unique and one-of-a-kind.

    Stormtrooper by Vilner is the second big project of the design studio. Nearly a year ago, the team revealed the BMW Bullshark – E63 coupe. The Stormtrooper is the convertible version of Bullshark. Both machines are subject to the same design idea, but they are very different.

    This time we have a real E64 M6, while the Bullshark relies on the mechanics of the E63 645i. The front and rear bonnets, bumpers, rear fenders, and all accessories for them are also different. Only the front fenders make an exception – they are all handmade and are single units.

    Typical for studio Vilner, the color combination is again non-traditional. This time the tuning specialists rely on white and brown. An emphasis is made thanks to the addition of 20 inch black wheels. The designers have further beautified them with white stripe, so that they can remind us of the ion engines of the X-Wing fighters.

    The coupe is covered with three-layer white pearl paint, while the hood is decided in brown. Just like the interior. There, Vilner has used antique nappa leather and brown Alcantara. The dashboard is warped, so that it can get a tinted brown carbon. Highlights on it are the mileage-meters which are in the same color. The seat belts and iDrive controller system are in sparkling white, as well as the back of the front seats.

    The decorative elements of the exterior are decided in brown mat. It covers the kidney in the pre-radiator grille, the lips under the front bumper, the doorsteps and “gills” in the front fenders. The latter are functional openings which are involved in the aerodynamics of the car. Below the doorsteps an additional spoiler is added. Just like the Bullshark, the Stormtrooper uses BMW emblems as side indicators.

    The headlights are built-in LED lights and have a black base, with the beds of the lighting “bulbs” painted white. The rear taillights also rely on LEDs and send us directly into fight scenes with Star Wars’ light-sabers. Vilner judged that the 500 hp (368 kW) of the V10 engine are completely enough and did not make any changes to the engine compartment.

  • Next Generation Renault Espace with Premiere in Paris

    This year’s Paris Motor Show is just around the corner and automotive brands are competing in showing us teasers, pictures and scarce information of what we are to see there. Such is the case with Renault, which will be taking the wraps off the new 2015 Espace model. The company has currently revealed three pictures of the soon-to-be-revealed crossover and gave us some details around it.

    As we can see the large, elegant and innovative crossover has a strong design and seductive appeal. It is based largely upon the concept car that was revealed one year ago at the Frankfurt Motor Show. 2015 Renault Espace keeps the 30-year long tradition of the product live alive, by offering a brightly-lit, comfortable and modular interior.

    Espace will also charm the public in Paris with its fluid lines and occupant-friendly cabin and floating centre console. Renault said that it will offer the model in five- and seven-seat version. Both variants will feature ingenious interior modularity and huge attention to detail with regard to new car’s design.

    The premiere of Espace will happen at company’s press conference at 11.00am on Thursday, October 2nd, on the Renault stand at the Paris Motor Show. However, we will all be able to see the event and be “virtually” there. The internet public will be able to access the on-line unveiling at www.crossover.renault.com.

    Source: Renault