Lidia Todorova – Page 140 – Automobiles Review

SsangYong XIV-Air and XIV-Adventure to Debut in Paris

SsangYong XIV-Air and XIV-Adventure Concepts will make a world debut at the 2014 Paris Motor Show in October. The vehicles preview what the production soon-to-be-launched X100 model will look like. Both are based on brand’s development philosophy of ‘Robust, Specialty and Premium’ and design theme of ‘Nature born – 3 Motion’. To go even further into details, the XIV stands for eXciting user-Interface Vehicle. It is part of SsangYong’s B-segment SUV series, which was shown for the first time at the 2011 IAA Frankfurt and with the most recent – the XLV, shown in Geneva this March.

There are almost no details provided by the brand around those two. What SsangYong has disclosed is the SUVs will measure 4,195 mm in length and will feature a 2,600 mm wheelbase. In addition, the XIV-Air and XIV-Adventure will be powered by either a 1.6 litre petrol or 1.6 litre diesel engines that meet Euro 6 emission standards.

As one can see from the teaser images below, the two new concepts will offer more style, practicality and convenience for the user. Although the teaser images are pretty dark, we can get some impression for the exterior of the models. The muscular stance is evident as well as the wraparound front and rear lights, and the slim grille.

Both concepts differ in terms of alloys, with the XIV-Air having more concept-like ones. The same model features a large air intake positioned on the lower front bumper. It also sports silverfish exterior paint scheme. On the other hand, the XIV-Adventure, finished in green, has rugged and off-road appearance. It is visible that it features a roof rack and a storage compartment attached to the bootlid.

SsangYong X100 is scheduled to go on sale next year.

Source: SsangYong

September 11, 2014

Toyota Introduces Innovative Urban Utility Concept [VIDEO]

Toyota U-squared Urban Utility Concept vehicle was developed by Toyota’s Calty Design Research in Newport Beach, California. The concept car will make a first public presence at World Maker Faire in New York City on 20th and 21st of September. This revolutionary vehicle includes a new open architecture and is built with innovative materials that redefine urban utility. For instance the designers have included the ability to roll back the roof, fold down the tailgate into a ramp and customize the interior on a versatile rail system.

The model was inspired by a growing innovative spirit in urban areas. Just take as an example the vehicle elements, which showcase the lifestyle and needs of an entrepreneurial city driver. Both exterior and interior are made in such way that they are intended for urban utilization.

Car’s exterior dimensions can perfectly handle bumper-to-bumper traffic, potholes and tight corners. Furthermore, this Toyota U2 concept has an extremely durable underbody and tool-like exterior. In addition, the side panels are completely customizable.

There are other distinctive design highlights such as the circular door handles and a slightly chunky proportion. The rear has a box-like design, which of course hints towards vehicle’s storage capabilities.

Other exclusive features regarding the exterior that needs to be mentioned are the roof panels that retract open, the rear glass that can slide into the tailgate, the tailgate that folds down into a ramp and the protective and replaceable ridges on tailgate.

Inside, the concept is as customizable as the outside. At the center of the design philosophy stood the outdoor activities, which involve gear and equipment. As a result, this made the Toyota U2 concept a flexible, functional gadget that owners can model according to their needs.

For instance, the retractable utility bar can be used as a holding a desk or grocery bag hooks. The side windows flip up for easy access from roadside. Other key interior highlights include a versatile utility rail system configurable which can hold everything from baskets to bike stands and the ability to fold and remove the front passenger seat. Toyota also created a fold-up rear seating, unique shifter design with intuitive switch for parking, drive and reverse mode.

Toyota U-squared Urban Utility Concept vehicle has the size of a compact car. However, it also incorporates the functionality of a compact truck and the spaciousness of a cargo van. It also delivers good fuel economy, maneuverability in city environments as well as easy loading and unloading.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dfKeLto3v60

Video Source: YouTube
Source: Toyota

September 11, 2014

2016 Mazda MX-5 to be Presented at the Paris Motor Show

2016 Mazda MX-5 MKIV roadster is to be the star of Mazda’s Paris Motor Show exhibit, where it will make its official European premiere. The event will happen between 4th and 19th of October, where Mazda will also display the Mazda3, Mazda6 and the Mazda CX-5 models. The new MX-5 was revealed just a few days ago and showed its stunning cutting-edge technology and timeless charm. The MKIV Mazda MX-5 is expected to give another boost to the successful Japanese brand.

The latest edition of the best-selling two-seater roadster is the sportiest one ever created by the company. It fully embodies the striking rendition of Mazda’s KODO – Soul of Motion design theme, thus exuding exuberance and expressing car’s agility.

The new model also expresses the exciting experience that awaits every driver behind the wheel. In keeping with the tradition, the cabin is snug yet comfortable, and it also includes modern convenient technologies. Just to name two: MZD Connect smartphone connectivity system and i-ACTIVSENSE. What is more, the 2016 MX-5 also sports Mazda’s innovative line-up of active safety technology.

Under the bonnet of this jewel lies high-compression SKYACTIV-G petrol engine that drives the rear wheels. In addition, the specially-developed SKYACTIV-Chassis delivers the most advanced Jinba Ittai driver-and-car-as-one experience yet.

Of course, the latest MX-5 retains the same charm, reliability, affordability and lightweight fun of the original model, which was launched exactly 25 years ago. This is the most compact model of any previous generations and it is more than 100 kilograms lighter than its predecessor. More details on the 2016 Mazda MX-5 are expected to be announced during its official premiere.

Source: Mazda

September 11, 2014

Suzuki Introduces Dualjet Technology to Swift Model

Suzuki Swift will deliver improved fuel economy and reduced CO2 emissions. The reason for this is the addition of new engine for the popular Swift model. The 1.2-litre petrol unit is planned to be introduced next year. This engine incorporates Suzuki’s latest technology that uses twin fuel injectors in order to deliver better fuel economy. This new technology is called Dualjet and it has resulted in Swift achieving 65.7 mpg on the EC combined fuel consumption cycle.

Precisely, this is an improvement of 9.2 mpg or 16 percent over the current petrol engine. The other benefit of Dualjet technology is the reduced CO2 emissions, which are now rated at 99g/km. In addition, the Dualjet technology positions the fuel injectors very close to the engine inlet valves. This allows for a finer fuel atomisation or mixture, which in turn provides more effective transfer into the cylinder.

Furthermore, internal modifications to the unit feature the utilization of a new type of inlet port and combustion chamber with other mechanical parts. This minimizes frictional losses and facilitate smoother running.

Other changes have been made to the piston crowns have. They have been modified with a slight bowl shape to deliver higher air turbulence inside the cylinder. In addition, the pistons have cooling oil jets to help reduce internal temperatures.

The future Swift will also benefit from a new type of Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system. It will be utilized in order to help avoid abnormal combustion or ‘knocking’. These modifications have resulted in a higher compression ratio of 12.0:1 versus 11.0:1 for the current engine.

The new 1.2-litre petrol unit produces a maximum of 90 hp (66 kW) and 120 Nm (89 lb-ft) of torque at 4,400 rpm. When compared to the previous petrol unit, which delivers 94 hp (69 kW) and 118 Nm (87 lb-ft) at 4,800 rpm, this accounts for subtle changes, but in improved fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions.

Other modifications feature slight alterations to gear ratios for greater flexibility on the road, and the addition of Engine Auto Stop Start (EASS). The Dualjet technology will initially be available as an optional engine choice on the Swift SZ4 two wheel drive models. Pricing will be confirmed closer to introduction.

Source: Suzuki

September 11, 2014

Evanta Shows First Official Barchetta Sketch Ahead of its Premiere

Evanta Barchetta is a joint project which will make its official world premiere at the Goodwood revival motor show, which will happen this weekend. The car has been manufactured by Evanta, and it has currently revealed the one and only official image of the Barchetta so far. The Evanta Barchetta is a 2-seater open top speedster, which has a design obviously inspired by the cars made in 1950s. Just take a look at its sleek and sweeping curves. Its low profile shows its Anglo-Italian parentage.Each vehicle of the Evanta Barchetta will be designed and built in Britain. It will be hand-crafted using traditional coach building methods, which include a composite kevlar body on a tubular frame. There will also be an alternative model available, which will come in an aluminium body.The Barchetta will be powered by its potent 6.2L engine, producing 450 hp (330 kW). Given the fact that this vehicle features a light frame, the engine contributes towards car’s exceptional agility. The unit will be mated to either an automatic or manual gearbox.The good new is that although the Bachetta will be built in Britain, the company will produce both left- and right-hand drive variants. Production will be strictly limited imited to 99 composite bodied vehicles and 49 aluminium bodied vehicles.The price of the Evanta Barchetta is yet to be confirmed. It is expected to be around £125,000 for the composite and £165,000 for the aluminium variant. Following the release of the Barchetta, the Evanta has announced plans to launch a GT concept car in the spring of next year.

September 11, 2014

World’s First 3D-Printed Car is Here! [VIDEO]

It will be the end of the automotive world as we know it, when the world’s first 3D-printed car drives out of McCormick Place in Chicago. During the six day event of International Manufacturing Technology Show, the vehicle will be printed over 44 hours then rapidly assembled by a team led by Local Motors. Then there will be a historic first drive set that will take place in the morning of September 13th.

The car carries the name “Strati” and it will be 3D printed in one piece with the utilization of direct digital manufacturing (DDM). And this is definitely history, because for the first time this method has been used to make a car.

And if you wonder how the mechanical components such as battery, motor, wiring, and suspension will be printed, well – they won’t. They will be sourced from various suppliers, including Renault’s electric Twizy.

The hopes for the Strati are to change the manufacturing status quo as well as consumer’s experience. It is also an example for the development of technology nowadays and how a car can be born in an entirely different way.

The innovative vehicle uses the material science and advanced manufacturing techniques pioneered at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Manufacturing Demonstration Facility at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). The 3D printing will also contribute to faster and innovative manufacturing solutions.

The machine behind this project is called BAAM, which stands for Big Area Additive Manufacturing machine. Its deposition rate of 40 pounds per hour of carbon reinforced ABS plastic and its large size allow for 3D printing of larger parts.

Strati will be displayed at AMT’s Emerging Technology Center. Local Motors, is a platform, which empowers anyone to design, build, and sell machines. It combines global co-creation and local micro-manufacturing to bring hardware innovations faster to the market. The Company is created by community of enthusiasts, hobbyist innovators and professionals which have gathered together to solve complex mechanical problems. Currently, Local Motors have plans to launch production-level 3D-printed vehicles for purchase from the general public. This will probably happen several months after the show.

httpv://youtu.be/daioWlkH7ZI

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Local Motors

September 10, 2014

2017 Cadillac Vehicles to be Equipped with new Vehicle Technologies

Cadillac has announced that in two years it will begin offering advanced “intelligent and connected” vehicle technologies. The announcement was made by General Motors CEO Mary Barra this Sunday during her keynote address at the Intelligent Transport System (ITS) World Congress in Detroit. Some of Cadillac’s 2017 model year vehicles will offer the advanced driver assist technology called Super Cruise.

In addition, the 2017 Cadillac CTS will be equipped with vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication technology. Barra said that General Motors is taking these giant leaps forward to remain a leader of new technology, and because of customer’s demand. The ultimate goal is through technology and innovation to make driving safer.

Super Cruise is just a working name for GM’s automated driving technology. It will offer customers a new type of driving experience, including hands-off lane following, braking and speed control. What is more, this system has been created in order to bring about more comfort to the attentive driver on freeways, both in bumper-to-bumper traffic and on long road trips.

Next, the V2V communication technology could help reducing many traffic collisions and improve traffic congestion. It will make this possible via sending and receiving basic safety information such as location, speed and direction. In this way it will warn drivers and it can also supplement active safety features, such as forward collision warning.

httpv://youtu.be/T7OHUXkMqZ8

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Cadillac

September 10, 2014

Nissan Project Titan is Ready to Conquer Alaska’s Wilderness [VIDEO]

Nissan Project Titan is world’s first crowd-sourced truck. Nissan has handed over the build to their Facebook fans and now the custom ultimate off-road machine is to take two heroic Wounded Warrior Project Alumni across Alaska. The project is based on a 2014 Nissan Titan Crew Cab PRO-4X. Fans have voted on 10 different areas of customization in order to assist the company to conquer Alaskan wilderness. There were three stages in the development of the vehicle. Along the way, fans have voted giving the company direction for almost every inch of the truck.

The exterior appearance of the Titan is adorned by a “Recon Titan” wrap, which is a digital-camouflage design that pays tribute to some of the most capable vehicles in the military. In addition, the fans have chosen a NISMO cold-air intake and Borla cat-back exhaust system, which open up airflow on both ends of the vehicle’s powertrain – the Endurance 5.6-liter V-8 engine.

On the Alaskan landscape, the Titan will be running on 18-inch Fuel Revolver D525 wheels wrapped in 35-inch Nitto Trail Grappler M/T tires. During the night, it will illuminate its way via Bulldog LED Lighting, while the ARB Deluxe Bull Bar will deliver additional protection.

The interior of the vehicle has been also customized. The shifter and steering wheel have been refreshed, while the seats got new rugged Katzkin leather-wrap as well as Wounded Warrior Project embroidery. Coordinated tan stitching can be seen on the seats, steering wheel and door panels.

Fans have also added utility to the experience. Precisely, Project Titan tows a customized camping trailer which includes a camp-style kitchen, tent, water/fuel storage and a spare tire.

Currently, the truck has been fully prepared and already arrived in Alaska. Iraqi war veterans and Wounded Warrior Project Alumni David Guzman and Kevin McMahon will trek over mountains and through valleys in the ultimate Titan. Of course, Nissan will document the adventure, with a YouTube series set to launch this fall. If you want to follow the team’s journey just visit Nissan’s Trucks Facebook page.

Unfortunately, this custom Nissan Project Titan won’t enter production or be available for purchase.

Source: Nissan

September 10, 2014

Honda HR-V is Small SUV Debuting at Paris Motor Show

Honda has revealed the first official images and details around the HR-V Prototype. This is company’s new small SUV intended only for European customers. In fact, the vehicle has been introduced in Japan last year at the Tokyo Motor Show., but under a different name – Vezel. The HR-V will have a world premiere at the 2014 Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris, which is to happen next month. The small crossover features a unique design, which echoes that of a coupe.

HR-V sports sharp and dynamic lines that effortlessly link to its sleek upper body with the stable and planted lower body. The SUV has clean lines are additionally complemented by hidden rear door handles, which lends the model even sportier presence. The car will be smaller than the CR-V, but will be still perfect for utilization in both the city and mountain roads.

The elegant exterior appearance of the car is continued inside. The interior practicality of the car was achieved due to the addition of a centre fuel tank. Honda states that the fuel tank’s location creates one of the most spacious and adaptable small SUV cabins.

But that is not all: Honda Magic Seats make great use of this versatility. They enable a wide range of seating configurations. In addition, they provide the ability to fold the second row seats completely flat for added cargo space.

The Vezel, which is currently on sale in Japan, is offered with two powertrain options, so we are expecting to see something similar for the European market. In details, the first one is the 1.5-liter direct-injected VTEC four-cylinder unit, and the second is a hybrid system that utilizes the same engine coupled with an electric motor.

More details on Honda HR-V will be announced during company’s press conference at the 2014 Mondial de l’Automobile on 2^nd of October.

Source: Honda

September 10, 2014

Vauxhall to Introduce New Model Called Viva Next Summer

Vauxhall Viva is a future five-door entry-level model, which the company is set to introduce to us the summer next year. The vehicle will be part of Vauxhall’s small car range and this means that it will be accompanying the popular and fashionable A-sector icons: the ADAM and the Corsa supermini. In addition, the company is also promising to offer Viva at extremely attractive price tag.

What Vauxhall has revealed so far is that the future Viva will have a five-door body style and will accommodate up to five or four occupants, meaning that it will come with either four or five seats. The car will hold great appeal in this rapidly growing sector, thanks to its great specifications and range of trims and equipment levels.

Vauxhall is also hoping that the bold and radical name “Viva” of the car will attract attention and engender curiosity. Precisely, Viva is an acclamation or salutation that comes from Latin. It still has ameaning in neo-Latin languages such as Spanish, Portuguese and Italian, and means “Long live… !” or more literally “Live!”.

Furthermore, the name of the five-door model also pays tribute to Vauxhall’s original Viva, which was produced between the years 1963 and 1979 in over 1.5 million examples. The car will feature a design adequate for the contemporary everyday life and will share the original’s clean lines, durability and practicality.

Unlike Vauxhall, Opel will introduce the car in different name, which will be announced tomorrow, and we are also hoping to get more details.

Source: Vauxhall

September 10, 2014

Lexus Updates 2015 RC F With Even More Powerful Engine [VIDEO]

2015 Lexus RC F which debuted at 2014 NAIAS event is the most powerful production V8 coupe the company has ever produced … until now. Lexus has just revealed that the RC F is getting an engine update that will endow it with even more horsepower. The new coupe will develop 477 horsepower (351 kW) from its naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine. Compared to the version introduced in the beginning of the year, this one is getting 27 hp (21 kW) additional strength.

Furthermore, the new engine will develop nearly 13 per cent more power than the IS F engine on which it is based. And these simple facts are making the new RC F driven by the most powerful Lexus V8 engine in the company’s history.

The 5.0-litre, 32-valve engine features new cylinder heads and lighter moving parts. These additions contribute towards an increase of the maximum power by 40kW, and maximum revolutions increased from 6600 to 7300rpm.

The updated RC F will be also fitted with an intelligent engine management system, which will allows the drivetrain to switch between Atkinson and Otto cycle. The result will be conserved fuel while coasting or delivering maximum power when required. 2015 Lexus RC F V8 is scheduled for launch during the first quarter of 2015.

httpv://youtu.be/UAGKMhH9r2g

Video Source: YouTube
Source: Lexus

September 9, 2014

2015 Dodge Viper Gets More Horsepower and $15k Price Drop

Good news for all 2015 Dodge Viper future buyers: the new starting price of the MY 2015 model is $15,000 USD less than the 2014 model it replaces. In addition, Dodge is giving the snake more horsepower and improved fuel economy. The new model year version of the Viper SRT will produce 645 horsepower (474 kW) and get up to 20 miles per gallon.

Dodge launched the original 1992 Dodge Viper priced at $50,700 USD, which adjusted for inflation equates to $86,130 in today’s dollars. This is even more compared to the price tag for the MY2015 Viper (see below). The first generation model 400 horsepower (294 kW), it didn’t have air conditioning, anti-lock brakes, traction control, stability control or … even have real windows. This made it the rawest American performance car of its time.

On the contrary, the fifth generation Viper, which maintains the purity of the original car through its seductive design, perfect weight balance and all-aluminum V10, adds 245 horsepower and five-mode ESC, two-mode suspension, ABS, traction control, launch control and a lightweight carbon fiber, magnesium and aluminum structure.

Furthermore, Dodge is also introducing various product enhancements, new packages and new colors for the 2015 Viper. The SRT is getting new accent stitching on the seats and instrument panel as well as Alcantara accents on the doors and instrument panel, and ‘Viper’ badged aluminum sill plates.

In addition, the GT now comes enhanced with Nappa leather seats with Alcantara inserts, Alcantara accents on the doors and IP, ‘Viper’ badged aluminum sill plates, two-mode suspension, five-mode ESC, ‘GTS’ hood and two-piece StopTech slotted rotors. The GTS Ceramic Blue Special Edition has an exclusive Ceramic Blue exterior color scheme accented by Black stripes.

At last, the TA 2.0 Special Edition is improved via the high-performance Aero Package. 2015 Viper is also getting three new exterior paint colors: Y’Orange, Stryker Orange and Stryker Purple.

The production of 2015 Dodge Vipers will begin in the second half of the fourth quarter of 2014. The cars will be arriving in dealerships in the first quarter of 2015 with a starting price of $84,995 USD.

Source: Dodge

September 9, 2014

Author: Lidia Todorova