Lidia Todorova – Page 160 – Automobiles Review

Detroit Electric SP:01 Electric Sports Car Prepared For Launch

Last year we have witnessed the rebirth of world’s fastest production electric vehicle, the Detroit Electric SP:01. The manufacturer back then announced that the car will be produced in only 999 examples and buit at company’s new production facility in Wayne County, Michigan. The electric model delivers the astounding top speed of 155 mph (249 km/h). The rear wheels of the car are driven by the mid-mounted 201 hp (148 kW) electric motor which also delivers 225 Nm (166 lb-ft) of torque. SP:01 is capable of covering the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint in only 3.7 seconds. And this is why the car, with a total weight of 2,354 lb., is regarded as the fastest pure-electric car.

Now, Detroit Electric is finalising the dynamic testing of its SP:01 pure-electric sportscar at a facility in Europe. After completing the tests, the ca will be introduced in several world markets. The lightweight car has only two seats and offers also an open-top experience. This is a promise to thrill the EV market with blistering performance and great dynamics.

In fact, the latest version of the SP:01 has undergone additional development work carried out by Detroit Electric’s engineers and designers. Unfortunately, we have no details of the car’s production and sales plans. However, the company has disclosed that further information will be announced in the coming weeks.

Source: Detroit Electric

June 18, 2014

Renaultsport Teases Trophy Show Car

Renault Sport Technologies has prepared a special debut. The car that just has been teased is the Renaultsport Trophy show car and it will shortly be unveiled. Form what we can see from the graphic image, is that the vehicle boasts uniquely stunning design. On the other hand the design hints to an exceptional performance. If you are curious about the exact date of debut, the Trophy show car will be officially presented to the media and the public at the Moscow International Automobile Salon (MIAS), which runs from 27th of August to 7th of September. With this brand new show car, Renault is set to present a unique vehicle which was designed solely for competition.

Currently, the brand is conducting an intense programme of development tests, with the car joining the World Series by Renault in 2015. The World Series has been uncovering champion drivers for the last decade, but the news here is that it will welcome a new category next year.

Renaultsport Trophy will be used in a single-model championship. Next to its spectacular performance designed, it has all the makings of being a big hit with the teams, drivers and fans at the Fast, Free & Fun events.

In addition, the company has also disclosed that the specifications of the car are a reflection of its racing pedigree. It was built by Dallara, while the carbon monocoque will be powered by a Nismo engine delivering more than 500 hp (368 kW).

The power unit will be coupled with a seven-speed sequential gearbox supplied by Sadev. Of course, Michelin will provide the tyres which in this case will be specifically developed for the car. The over weight of the vehicle is expected to be around 1,100kg.

Source: Renault

June 18, 2014

DD Customs Restyles Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

DD Customs Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG not only pays homage to its legendary 300 SL-ancestor from the late 1950s and the early 1960s, but also has the contemporary looks and design features. Just take a look at the slightly forward-inclined grille, the incredibly long motor cowl, the upwards curving winged doors and the rounded rear with flat tail lights. DD customers were inspired by this and did an incredible job for the enhancement of the exterior of this unique car. The body of this sleek Mercedes-Benz was refined with a body kit. The aerodynamics updates include front bumper with cup spoiler, side sills and a tail apron with new diffusor.

To match the masculine appearance and even to reinforce it, the tuners gave the SLS AMG new wheel/tyre combination. At the front were added Corniche Sports Wheels in 9×20 inches, while at the rear they come in size of 10.5×21 inches. Then the rims were combined with Michelin Pilot Sport tyres that have the dimensions of 265/30R20 and 295/25R21 at the front and rear, respectively.

Furthermore, the car is several centimeters lower due to the addition of version 3 undercarriage from KW automotive. The coilover suspension not only has adjustable push-and-pull stage dampenings, but is also combined with the KW Hydraulic Lift System.

The latter offers a brief increase of the vehicle’s ground clearance by up to 40 millimetres on the push of a button. At last, the 6.2 litres V8 engine was left in serial condition. However, there is a new sports exhaust, which delivers a surprising variation of voice by the push of a button.

Source: DD Customs

June 18, 2014

Peugeot Teases 208 GTi 30th Anniversary Limited Edition

2014 Peugeot 208 GTi 30th Anniversary Limited Edition comes to commemorate the celebration of 30 years of brand’s GTi. It has just been teased and will be officially premiered at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, so we have to wait a little longer to receive more details around it. The car will debut in the Supercar & ‘First Glimpse’ class, and will also make dynamic demonstrations. Except for the released image we weren’t informed of anything else.

It is visible though, that the car is carries the typical 208 front-end and is painted in aggressive red color scheme. At the bottom of the grille we also see UK’s flag, which probably signifies the place of premiere.

If we go even deeper, we shall find similarities with the front of the latest 2014 Peugeot 208 Style edition that was introduced last month. It has the same head- and fog-lights and it is also red. While 208 Style is based on the Active trim level and is offered in three- or five-door variant, we suppose that the GTi will be a three-door only.

Going back in time, Peugeot GTi was first introduced with the iconic 205 GTi back in 1984. Since then the GTi badge has been proudly featured on performance versions of the company’s products. 2014 is also a memorable year for Peugeot because of another reason: the French brand marks a 125-year anniversary of automotive development.

The evolution of the company initiated in 1810 from a business in the development of cutting tools and mills, kitchen utensils and other. Then it progressed to the production of cycles, scooters, motorcycles and at last – motor vehicles. Stay tuned for more information ahead of official premiere of the anniversary edition GTi vehicle!

Source: Peugeot

June 17, 2014

8HP90 TorqueFlite Transmission Added To 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat

TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmissions are now a substantial part of more than one million vehicles worldwide. Reportedly, vehicles equipped with it, save more than 700 million gallons of gasoline, which is equal approximately to $2.5 billion USD. TorqueFlite transmissions in model-year 2014 Chrysler Group’s vehicles contribute to 19 fuel-economy/driving-range benchmarks across four vehicle segments. In addition, the special transmission also reduces the overall CO2 emissions by more than six million metric tonnes. Now, the company is expanding the availability of the transmission to the 2015 HEMI-equipped Dodge Charger and Challenger lineups.

In 2012 TorqueFlite 8HP45/845RE made its debut as the first eight-speed available outside the luxury market. Back then it was coupled with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 which drove the Charger and Chrysler 300 lineups. Since then, both transmissions have migrated to Pentastar- and HEMI-powered versions of the Dodge Durango, Ram 1500 and Jeep Grand Cherokee lineups.

In 2015 TorqueFlite 8HP70 transmission will be paired with HEMI-equipped Dodge Chargers, Challengers and Challenger SRTs. Now, the introduction of the 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat, marks also the introduction of the next member of TorqueFlite transmission family – the 8HP90 high-performance automatic.

The transmissions are fully electronic and their software adapts to the shift patterns of driver’s behavior and driving conditions. Internally, the TorqueFlite includes four gear sets and five shift elements, which include multi-disc clutches and brakes. In fact, only two shift elements are open at one time. The result is reduction of drag losses originating from the rotation of multiple parts.

Another benefit of the new transmissions is that they never requiring oil changes, when subjected to normal driving conditions. In addition, 2014 Dodge Ram 1500 equipped with this transmission, benefits from a thermal management system. It quickly raises engine and transmission fluid temperature, which contributes towards improvement of fuel efficiency by 1.7 percent.

Source: Chrysler

June 17, 2014

Peugeot 108 Has 196 Litres Of Carrying Capacity

2014 Peugeot 108 is getting readied for a market introduction on 1st of July. It is company’s offer for a small but perfectly formed urban vehicle, which will take city car versatility to a new level. It features a wide range of enhancements over its predecessor (the 107) like improvements in the boot. In fact 108 is boasting 196 litres of carrying capacity which were previously 139 litres. The boot sill is also 20 mm lower for easier loading.

Another practical innovation is the new parcel shelf. A neat fabric cover conveniently lies flat against the inside of the hatchback glass when the boot is open. As the boot is pulled down, the cover pivots to the horizontal and hides whatever is below. In addition, the hatch also features twin gas struts for more stability when open.

Furthermore, at the rear one can find another convenience feature: the reversing camera built into the rear bumper and positioned above the number plate. It comes as an option in the base trim, but it is standard on the two highest trim levels in the range, Allure and Feline.

More practicality is added via the rear bench seat, which splits 50:50, and each side can be folded with the use of a separate fabric handle accessible from the boot. Here, two rear seat ISOFIX child seat fixing points are also standard.

The new model will be offered inn three- and five-door body styles. The interior can accommodate up to four occupants. Driver’s seat is now height-adjustable on all but the entry Access trim, while on three-door models both front seats now include a memory function.

Other premium features of the 108 ownership are the multi-function steering wheel, which is standard on all but bas trim level, the air with climate control, the passenger-side glovebox with horizontal cut-out section and many more.

2014 Peugeot 108 offers two engine options: the 1.0 liter e-VTi – 68 hp (51 kW) coupled with the 5-speed manual gearbox or an automatic one, and the 1.2 liter PureTech VTi with 82 hp (61 kW).

Source: Peugeot

June 17, 2014

2015 Lexus RC F Adds “Solar Flare” Paint Finish Chosen By Fans

Last month Lexus has challenged its Facebook fans to come up with a name for the blazing orange paint finish which will be available for the 2015 RC F high performance coupe. There were hundreds of suggestions from which the best one was picked and it is called “Solar Flare”. The choice was made by company’s director, Richard Balshaw. “Solar Flare” will become an official color for the RC F in the UK and will be offered exclusively when it goes on sale at the end of the year.

RC F was officially revealed at the Detroit motor show in January. The coupe matches its visual impact with great performance. It is powered by the most powerful V8 engine Lexus has engineered for a production model and which in addition was specifically developed for the RC F. The 5.0-litre 32-valve unit produces more than 450 hp (330 kW) and 520 Nm (384 lb-ft) of torque.

Furthermore, the powertrain is coupled with an eight speed direct-shift transmission. The unit has been engineered to switch between different operating cycles in order to secure optimum efficiency and performance in driving. RC F is built from lightweight carbon fibre parts, and has an active rear wing and a torque vectoring differential. They all part of the RC F’s advanced engineering package.

Source: Lexus

June 17, 2014

Lotus LMP1 Unveiled At 24 Hours Of Le Mans

Lotus LMP1 or the P1/01 has just took a centre stage at the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans event and was unveiled to the media and public for the very first time. However, the car didn’t participate in the race due to delays resulting from an unavoidable change in engine supplier. Despite this, the unveiling was an enormously proud moment for the team, because the iconic LMP 1 class represents the highest class of sports car racing. It attracts some of the best drivers in the world and is dominated by world famous manufacturers.

The Lotus LMP1 car is an entirely new car built from the start to meet the new WEC regulations for the LMP1 L privateer racing category. LMP1 car was designed by Chief Designer Paul White and is powered by an AER (Advanced Engine Research) V6 turbo engine.

Precisely, it is an aluminium 6 cylinder, 90 degree V angle Turbocharged unit which uses one turbocharger per bank. It has 2 aluminium cylinder Heads with 4 valves per cylinder and 4 camshafts. The fuel injection system is GDI which features 2 Synchronous High pressure fuel pumps. The ignition system uses Bosch Motorsport Coils and Bosch Spark plugs, while the throttle System is independently drive by wire per bank. The engine is coupled with a six-gear sequential gearbox with pedal shift.

In fact, the LMP1 stands for “Le Mans Sportscar Prototype 1”. The prototype vehicle stands on a chassis built from carbon composites monocoque with CFK crash elements at the front and rear. The vehicle runs on BBS fogged rims of the size 13 x 18 inches both at the front and rear. They are wrapped in Michelin tyres of the size 31/71 – 18 X Radial.

The total weight of the car is impressive – it is just 850 kg, which promises a good performance. This weight is due to the material used for the bodywork which is primarily a lightweight carbon composite. At last, the wheel suspension of the car is independent and includes adjustable dampers.

Source: Lotus

June 16, 2014

2014 Citroen C1 Makes Goodwood Debut

Citroen is currently refreshing its 2014 C1 model, which was revealed at the Geneva Motor Show. The firs version of the car was revealed in 2005 and since then tthe best-seller has notched up more than 780,000 sales. This new city car is available in 3- door and 5-door versions. What is more, it is also available in a new open-top body style called Airscape. Although a small car it has a strong personality, which delivers an upbeat response to urban mobility requirements. The new C1 reflects all that new Citroen design philosophy is about.

The C1 features more attractive design, with dynamic lines and a cheerful front end with a cheeky gaze created by the headlamps. Two-tone versions and brightly coloured interiors underline the car’s character. Its unique styling and irresistible looks is what makes in an immediate eye-catcher.

Furthermore, the vehicle offers more comfort in everyday driving. An agile car designed to nip in and out of traffic, it allies compact exterior dimensions (just 3.46m), with easy handling and a turning circle of 4.80m. It also delivers great suspension comfort.

The car has been equipped with more useful technology. For instance, Citroen has added convenient features such as the 7’’ touchscreen, and Mirror Screen technology to copy and run smartphone apps from the touchscreen, as well as hands-free entry and drive, with a reversing camera, and with hill-start assist.

C1 also offers optimised running costs. The firs reason for this is the weight, which is just 840 kg. The second factor is the new-generation petrol engines, that are regarded best in class for fuel consumption of 3.8l/100 km and CO2 emissions (88 g/100km).

2014 Citroën C1 is currently making an UK debut at 2014 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Source: Citroen

June 16, 2014

2015 Ford Explorer XLT Has Bold And Rugged Looks

2015 Ford Explorer is being upgraded and now features many attractive characteristics and design elements. For the new model year it will offer its customers a sport-inspired appearance package that will deliver more comfort and technology. Next to the new colors and features included, Ford is adding a brand new trim level called XLT. It is based on the Sport grade, but has bolder and rugged looks. The vehicle will be available later this month at company’s dealerships.

For 2015 the Explorer will add as a standard 18-inch aluminum wheels. In addition, also as no-cost option on the Sport grade is the Class III trailer tow package. Three exterior colors are new: Bronze Fire Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, Caribou Metallic and Magnetic Metallic.

In details for the XLT, this SUV has some striking exterior details. It runs on 20-inch machined aluminum wheels with painted pockets. It also features black body-side cladding and roof rack rails. Other striking design elements include the Magnetic Metallic painted grille, mirror caps and liftgate applique, “EXPLORER” hood badge and body-color door handles.

The interior of the vehicle is also impressive. It features leather-trimmed, heated front seats with Miko suede inserts and contrast stitching. There are also included floor mats with special badging and auto-dimming rearview mirror.

The technology upgrades featured in the XLT are SYNC with MyFord Touch, two 4.2-inch color LCD screens in the instrument cluster, an 8-inch color LCD touch screen in the Meteorite Black center stack, two USB ports and an SD card reader.

Source: Ford

June 16, 2014

McLaren Teases Track-Focused P1 GTR

McLaren P1 GTR is planned to be introduced. The famous 24 Hours of Le Mans was the place where 20 years ago the legendary McLaren F1 GTR made an unforgettable victory. The track-only edition of the P1 comes to resurrect the iconic fame. The limited-run model will go into production when the 375th and final example of the road car has been completed. Of course, the vehicle will have no need to comply with road legislation. McLaren P1 GTR will be designed and developed as the best drivers’ car in the world on track.

It will deliver even greater levels of performance, grip, aerodynamics and downforce than the road car. The car will be equipped with wide range of technologies and a powertrain, which is promised to deliver an intended power output of 1,000 PS (986 bhp).

In addition, it will run on race-proven slick tyres, a widened track and will feature more aggressive and distinctive styling designed to offer optimized performance around the lap. McLaren P1 GTR programme will be priced at £1.98 million. For this price, each customer will receive an individually tailored car.

The customer will also “receive” exclusive consultations with the McLaren-team and Design Director Frank Stephenson. The exact production numbers of the track-focused P1 GTR are still to be determined, but what is for sure is that it will be strictly limited.

Source: McLaren

June 16, 2014

Les Legendes de Bugatti: Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Black Bess [VIDEO]

Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Black Bess was officially unveiled two months ago and then exhibited for the first time in front of public at the 2014 Beijing Motor Show starting on 20th of April. This is fifth model of Bugatti’s “Legends” series, which (just like its siblings) is based on the powerful Grand Sport Vitesse and comes along unique styling upgrades. Now, Bugatti is launching a promo video which shows-off the great characteristics of the roadster. And I must confirm that after watching it I was really impressed.

The Veyron Black Bess pays tribute to the Type 18 “Black Bess” – one of the first street-legal super sports cars. It was built in 1913 and was powered by a spectacular engine for that period of time. Precisely, the 5.0 liter four-cylinder powertrain was capable of developing 100 horsepower (73 kW) and achieved a maximum speed of 161 km/h (100 mph).

The new Black Bess edition will be limited to only three examples. It has the price tag of $3 million US dollars like the other legends. Despite this, Bugatti has sold every single one of the previous four versions in the range.

Veyron Black Bess edition is powered by a 6.0-liter, quad-turbo W16 engine, which produces nearly 1200 horsepower. What is specifically astounding about this special edition is the radiant black paint, the accents from pure gold, an of course the special interior treatment. Just watch the video below!

httpv://youtu.be/vgVtNufHQbA

Video Source: YouTube via Bugatti

June 13, 2014

Author: Lidia Todorova