Lidia Todorova – Page 246 – Automobiles Review

Desire: Short Film Featuring Damian Lewis And Jaguar F-Type [VIDEO]

Today was the world premiere of Desire – the anticipated short film by Jaguar, at Sundance London. The film was created in collaboration with Ridley Scott Associates (RSA) and in it stars Damian Lewis, Jordi Mollà and Shannyn Sossamon.

The director of “Desire”, Adam Smith, described the creative project as a true adventure and challenge, where a story of betrayal, retribution, passion and greed is told. The film was shot at Chile’s Atacama desert, which is one of the most beautiful and marvelous places on the planet.

In addition, the award-winning singer-songwriter Lana Del Rey made the title song to the film, called “Burning Desire”, which was officially revealed on Valentine’s Day this year. More importantly, another highlight is the Jaguar F-Type itself, which is equipped with brand’s highly acclaimed 5.0-litre V8 engine.

The latter delivers 495 hp (364 kW) and 625Nm (463 lb-ft) of torque. These numbers result in an effortless acceleration time of 4.3 seconds for the sprit of 0 to 100 km/h on the way to a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph). As a matter of fact, the F-TYPE is not designed to be like an ordinary sports car. It’s a Jaguar sports car – ultra-precise, powerful, sensual and, most of all, it feels alive.

You can view the short film below:

httpv://youtu.be/41Qztg4EjmM

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Jaguar

April 25, 2013

New Meaning Of Lightweight: Audi TT Ultra Quattro Concept

Audi TT Ultra Quattro Concept is equipped with brand’s latest and most innovative TT 2.0 TFSI which has shed an incredible 300kg and gained a power upgrade to 310 hp (228 kW). The car was developed especially for next month‘s annual gathering of Audi enthusiasts in Wörthersee, Germany. It aims to show how the intelligent mix of materials can result in weight savings.

This Audi concept weighs just 1111 kg, while featuring a potent petrol engine with quattro all-wheel-drive. As stated it generates 310 hp (228 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. The power is transmitted through a six-speed transmission, the result is blistering 4.2-second acceleration time for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h. The top speed here is 173 mph.

The reduction of weight was achieved via modifications to the crankcase, the crankshaft, the balancer shafts, the flywheel, the sump, the bolts and certain ancillary units in the engine (the result is 25 kg less). In addition, the innovative hybrid body shell already boasts a low body weight of 206 kilograms.

Furthermore, the utilization of carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) in the rear end, the centre tunnel, the B-pillars and the roof as well as the magnesium components in the floor and in the hinge reinforcements effect in additional savings.

Another highlight here is the Fibreglass-reinforced polymer (FRP) also replaces more conventional steel for the coil springs in the suspension, helping to further reduce unsprung masses. Other changes in the vehicle have been also made in order to achieve minimum weight. All in all, the overall weight of the car is 300 kilograms lighter compared to the series-production car.

Of course, the exterior of this Audi concept is more than exceptional. Its styling is additionally accentuated through the large spoiler at the front, the base of the rear wing made as a supporting component from milled aluminium, and the wing – made of visible carbon fibre. The exterior color is crystal white and it is complemented by CFRP elements on the roof, the flanks and the tailgate.

On the other hand, the interior includes CFRP on the door trim, the centre console and the cross-bracing that replaces the rear seat bench. The standard front seats are also replaced by fibreglass-reinforced polymer (FRP) bucket seats.

In terms of technology equipment in this model one can find air conditioning, electric window controls, an electromechanical parking brake as well as compact cameras in the doors. Their function is to substitute the exterior mirrors and transfer images into the digital cockpit.

Source: Audi

April 25, 2013

Toyota Me.We Concept – Four Cars In One [VIDEO]

Toyota ME.WE Concept Vehicle does not get under any classification pr class of vehicles. It is at the same time a small city car, off-roader, ute and convertible, which makes it perfectly adaptable to a wide variety of lifestyles.

The five-seat electric car is a result of the joint venture between Toyota and the industrial designer Jean-Marie Massaud. As a matter of fact, the car’s name reflects a simultaneous concern for individual freedom (ME) and responsibility towards society (WE).

This concept is created with the aim of “intelligent reduction”: it accommodates the automotive needs of people by eliminating excess in a package thus combining pure driving pleasure with environmental responsibility.

To go further into details, the ME.WE utilizes lightweight, robust and recyclable materials – a tubular aluminium structure, body panels made from expanded polypropylene, and bamboo for the floor and dashboard.

Furthermore, the interior of the car is entirely orientated towards the passengers, while the luggage can be carried on the roof and protected by a neoprene cover. Additionally, the rear luggage space can also be extended.

The instruments included in this vehicle are restricted to only one screen above the steering wheel. On it the driver can receive information about vehicle speed, battery charge, trip information and navigation instructions delivered by a smart phone, which is mounted below the screen.

Simple design is matched by ease of use: it has an electric motor in each wheel like the recently unveiled Toyota i-ROAD and its batteries are located under the floor, as with the Toyota iQ electric car.

Toyota will exhibit the inherent innovation of the ME.WE by unveiling the concept car in its Paris showroom – Le Rendez-vous Toyota on the famous Avenue des Champs-Élysées. The vehicle will be on display until 12th of June. Sadly, the Japanese brand states that there are no future plans for the ME.WE to enter production.

Toyota Me.We Concept – Technical Specifications

DIMENSIONS

Length (mm) 3,440
Width (mm) 1,750
Height (mm) 1,600

CHASSIS & BODY

Chassis construction Tubular aluminium
Body shell Polyproylene panels
Kerb weight (kg) 750

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

Power 4 x in-wheel electric motor
Battery location Underfloor

VENTILATION

Heating/air conditioning
Low-consumption heat pump
Electric seat heating

Source: Toyota

April 25, 2013

Perfect Style: TECHART Porsche Cayman

TECHART Porsche Cayman is the latest transformation of an exquisite model delivered by the specialists of the tuning company TECHART. They have transferred the principles of sportiness and individuality with their typical design philosophy.

The exterior of this Porsche model includes a new front apron with a TECHART two-part front spoiler, integrated splitter as well as redesigned and enlarged central air duct. This results in more aggressive on-road stance of the Cayman.

The rear of the car on the other hand is enhanced via trims at the side mirrors and upright fins in the side air intakes at the rear wheel arches. In addition, the combination of a fixed TECHART rear spoiler, a rear diffuser with TECHART diffuser trim and central TECHART sports tailpipes rounds off the cars new visual characteristics.

Furthermore, there also has been added an audible improvement thrrough a TECHART sports exhaust muffler, or there is an option to be included the new TECHART sports exhaust system with valve control.

The aggressiveness of the car is further accentuated vie the TECHART wheels in 21-inch size. There is a chice between TECHART Formula light alloy wheels in classic 5-spokes design and the weight reduced TECHART Formula III forged wheels in dynamic twin-spokes design. At last, the exterior features TECHART sport spring kit which lowers height of the vehicle by 35 mm.

TECHART has also featured in this tuning program a handcrafted interior. A full leather equipment is included which features decorative stitching, lacquered surfaces, carbon fiber trims and manifold interior styling package.

TECHART 3-spokes sport steering wheel with ergonomically mounted TECHART paddle shifters is one of the highlights here and it offers precise vehicle control and allows sporty gear changes in combination with maximum driving pleasure.

Exterior & Aerodynamics

TECHART Front Spoiler I in vehicle’s body color with integrated front splitter
TECHART Side Mirror Trims in titanium grey matt (mirror arms and mirror bottom shells in body color, mirror covers in titanium grey matt)
TECHART upright fins in body color at the side air intakes
TECHART Rear Spoiler in body color, wing uprights in titanium grey matt
Rear Diffuser in titanium grey matt with TECHART diffuser trim in body color

Engine & Drive

TECHART Sports Tailpipes, round, black matt chromed

Chassis & Wheels

TECHART Formula III 5-spoke forged wheels in 21-inch, titanium grey matt, outer rim in orange matt
TECHART Sport Spring Kit (lowers ride height by 30 mm at front axle and 20 mm at rear axle)
TECHART Wheel Spacers
Brake callipers in orange with TECHART logotype

Interior

Full leather equipment in black with decorative stitching and leather applications in orange
TECHART Interior Styling Packages I, II, III and IV in titanium grey matt
TECHART Carbon Interior Kits I, II and III in graphite grey matt
Seat back panels of Sports Seat Plus in body color
TECHART Instrument Dials in orange
Sport Chrono Dial in titanium grey and orange
TECHART 3-spoke Sports Steering Wheel (PDK) in leather black with decorative stitching in orange
TECHART Paddle Shifters in orange matt with symbols in black matt
TECHART door sills in body color with TECHART logotype in orange
TECHART Floor Mats in black with leather piping in black and decorative stitching in orange, leather latch with TECHART badge
TECHART Loadspace Floor Mat in black with leather piping in black and decorative stitching in orange, leather latch with TECHART badge
TECHART Engine Compartment Trim with TECHART Logo and luggage protection bar in carbon, graphite grey matt
TECHART Sport Pedals in Aluminium, hard anodized
TECHART Foot Rest in Aluminium, hard anodized

Source: TECHART

April 25, 2013

Brilliantly Bright: SR Auto Fisker Karma Chrome

SR Auto Fisker Karma Chrome is a vehicle that can’t be seen everyday. Firstly, given the fact that it is a Fisker Karma, and secondly because it’s outstanding exterior appearance. Brilliantly bright this vehicle exudes perfect stance and electrifying charm.

The four-door Fisker model brings to reality the astonishing acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds. Despite this performance the model is able to achieve an impressive consumption of more than 100 miles per gallon and 83 g/km CO2 emissions.

What is more important however is that this car transcends the boundaries of color and tones. A majestic reflection of the world is cast upon the hybrid super car – it wears a chrome cloak. In addition, the elongated frame accentuates the sheer magnificence of each panel.

Thanks to SR Auto Group, what completes the perfect visual attributes of this particular vehicle is the new bespoke set of twenty-two inch forged PUR 2WO wheels, which are brushed silver face with pearl white windows.

Source: SR Auto

April 24, 2013

2014 Nissan Versa Sedan – Pricing Announced

2014 Nissan Versa Sedan’s pricing has just been introduced for the new model year. It stays unchanged from 2013 and starts at $11 990.

2014 Versa Sedan is equipped with a standard 1.6-liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine with dual injector system and twin Continuously Variable Timing Control (CVTC). The engine is matched with a the Xtronic CVT® transmission, which helps achieving a fuel economy of 40 miles per gallon highway, 31 mpg city and 35 mpg combined. It is rated at 109 horsepower (80 kW) and 144 Nm (107 lb-ft) of torque.

The Versa S is rated at 27/36/30 mpg city/highway/combined with 5-speed manual transmission and 26/35/30 mpg city/highway/combined with the 4-speed automatic transmission.

In addition this Nissan model includes some popular features such as air conditioning, 6-way adjustable driver’s seat, and AM/FM/CD/Aux-in audio system. Some of the new features however are the following: 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, tri-cot headliner, 4.3-inch display audio and SiriusXM Satellite Radio (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately) for Versa Sedan SL models; standard 60/40-split fold-down rear seat and key fob trunk release for Versa Sedan SV models; and tachometer and low rolling resistance tires for Versa Sedan S models.

What is more, all of the models under this name will receive a suspension and steering tuning change. There have also been made some interior changes. On the other hand only Versa Sedan SV and SL models will be equipped with high-gloss black B-pillar treatment and will deliver enhanced seat comfort thanks to the bottom cushion and foam density.

At last, there are optional SV Convenience Package and SL Tech Package that include upgraded content such as NissanConnectSM with Navigation system.

2014 Nissan Versa Sedan Pricing:

Model/Engine/Transmission
Versa Sedan S 5MT	$11,990 USD
Versa Sedan S 4AT	$12,990 USD
Versa Sedan S Plus CVT	$13,790 USD
Versa Sedan SV CVT	$15,240 USD
Versa Sedan SL CVT	$16,890 USD

Source: Nissan

April 24, 2013

Renault Teases F1-Influenced Electric Concept Vehicle

When the worlds of Formula 1 and electric vehicles meet, then according to the French brand Renault, something unique is born. And this is their new electric vehicleconcept, that has just been teased with the above image, giving insufficient information of what it will look like.

The model has been teased a day ahead its official reveal on 25th of April, where the company’s latest concept will be showcased at its Valladolid plant in Spain.

All that has been revealed so far is that this is a prototype vehicle, which will exude muscular styling and will deliver impressive performance credentials. It aims to provide a bridge between the world of Formula 1 and that of electric vehicles.

Source: Renault

April 24, 2013

Opel Astra H OPC Nurburgring by WRAPworks

WRAPworks has chosen the compact Opel in order to make of it an exquisite creation which will proudly carry the name “Nurburgring Edition”. The foil colors that have bee used in this project are titan-metallic mat as well as high-gloss red and they have been carefully chosen to match the factory logo.

However, in order to foil every tiny detail, the car has been largely disassembled into its component parts. In addition, there was especially developed a high-gloss digital printing in carbon style for the engine hood in order to accentuate the logo.

What is ore, this Astra is equipped with an exhaust system by Remus with centered tailpipe which is accentuated by means of the red line ending on it. To preserve the relation to the original Nurburg Edition, the series checks have been left on the bonnet, top and tailgate, at least partially.

Next, the Astra H OPC is lowered by means of EIBACH-30/30 springs and includes an OPC 1 brake cooling and yellow fog lights, an adjustable Whiteline-rear axle-stabilizer and a Pipercross air filter, Courtenay PU motor bearing and the bronze bushings for the guide pins of the ATE-break calipers at the front axle, Nitro rims by Motec in size 8×18 ET30 and Hankook Ventus V12 tyres in size 225/40ZR18. Finally the rear wiper was removed and Rally-4-safety belts by SCHROTH were installed inside.

Source: Miranda Media

April 24, 2013

Debut For Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept In China

Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept has just been presented to the public at 2013 Shanghai Auto Show showing it the future design cues intended for Volkswagen SUVs.

The five-seat CrossBlue Coupe is 4,889 mm long, 2,015 mm wide and just 1,679 mm high and for that reason offers distinctive and muscular look. When observed at the front one can see the radiator grille trim that consists of two polished aluminium struts and the VW logo in a 3D form which eventually extends into the headlights.

Moreover, under the C-pillars there can be seen ports for the fuel tank and battery. The fuel filler neck is positioned under a lid on the right side of the vehicle, while the cover for the electrical outlet is located symmetrically on the left side. It consists of one socket for charging the high-voltage battery and another for connecting electric devices. This basically means that the interface (16 A, 230 V) makes the CrossBlue Coupé a generator as well.

One can not go without paying attention to the tailpipes, which are designed in stainless steel, and in addition are integrated into a polished aluminium trim panel that runs horizontally along the back of the coupe.

One of the most important highlights here is the drivetrain that offers an extended range of possibilities. Here we are speaking about a plug-in hybrid system that comprises of a V6 turbocharged direct injection petrol engine and two electric motors (40 kW front and 85 kW rear).

When they work together they are capable of generating 415 hp (305 kW). The power is transmitted via a six-speed DSG gearbox. These horsepower make the car sprint form standstill to 100 km/h in only 5.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 146 mph.

Despite those inspiring results, the fuel economy is impressive with a combined cycle figure of 3.0 l/100 km, or 94.1 mpg. In hybrid mode, the CrossBlue Coupé returns 6.9 l/100 km (40.9 mpg). What is more, when the vehicle is powered by its battery alone, the CrossBlue can cover up to 33 km/20 miles as an EV.

When the vehicle operates in E-mode, only the rear electric motor propels the vehicle and the TSI engine is shut off. However, it is switched again after 75 mph an then the TSI unit is coupled to the drivetrain again, within fractions of a second. The battery can be charged by external power sources or by the engine while the SUV is moving.

In addition, the TSI drivetrain charges the battery while driving thus storing electrical energy for EV operation. There are also a number of other modes such as Coasting, Battery regeneration, Boosting, Off-road(‘propshaft by wire’), TSI only.

Source: Volkswagen

April 23, 2013

Premiere For The Buick Riviera Concept Vehicle

A brand new version of the Buick Riviera Concept vehicle made a world debut in Shanghai, showing off its avant-garde aesthetics and range of advanced technology. The concept is powered by a plug-in hybrid electric motor which comes in a single package.

The Rivera Concept retains the sweeping design cues of the previous versions, but is more athletic in terms of shape and exudes elegance and deeply sculpted lines. The concept’s silhouette has a three-dimensional effect that resembles waves in the ocean coming to a standstill for a split second.

In addition, here are featured Buick‘s one-of-a-kind gull-wing doors that add more to the sportiness of the model. The new Riviera has an ice celadon exterior finish inspired by jade. What is more, the updated concept vehicle has a new waterfall grille and wing-shaped daytime running lights.

The balance between style and performance is kept thanks to the inclusion of its raked windshield, 14-degree fastback design and metallic fiber spoiler, active grille shutters and diffusers, and active pneumatic wheels.

Next, the interior of the car is based on the 360-degree integrated design strategy. Inside the coupe, the eaglewood tone predominates and features extensive use of refined materials like sand-blasted aluminum alloy, lava suede and ebony. The luxury feel is further enhanced, thanks to the new center console, front floating seats, adaptive seating system and noise-absorbing head restraint system.

In terms of technologies included in this project, this Buick includes BIP (Buick Intelligent Performance) and dual-mode W-PHEV (wireless plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) propulsion system. This basically means that the driver can choose to go on green power in electric mode and enjoy the exhilarating handling and performance of a sports car while driving “green” in hybrid mode.

The Rivera can be charged with a traditional cable or wirelessly via a sensory recharge panel on the car’s chassis. Another highlight here is that this concept is also given an intelligent four-wheel steering, an electromagnetic-controlled suspension and an air spring package.

The safety and security features here include a forward-looking active safety system that gathers traffic information through 10 high-resolution cameras and 18 micro high-precision sensors. Then the information is being integrated and afterwards projected in a holographic image on the windshield.

Furthermore, the intelligent driver assist system delivers high level of active safety and security, because it incorporates some versatile technologies such as an eagle view record system, night view assist, side blind-zone alert system, lane departure warning system, full-speed range-adaptive cruise control system, lane change assist system, parking assist system, rear cross-traffic alert system, autopilot system and “transparent” A pillars.

Source: Buick

April 23, 2013

Honda Concept M And Jade Models Revealed In Shanghai

Next to Honda Cider Concept, the Japanese brand made a world premiere at Auto Shanghai 2013 of another exclusive concept – the Honda Concept M. The vehicle’s production version is going to enter the market next year.

The new Concept M is a vehicle for the MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) segment and was developed especially for the Chinese market. The new model offers the attributes of a passenger car while adding new value through the combination of a comfortable and spacious cabin space.

Of course, it will include a wide range of technologies and will deliver nothing less but fun of driving. Concept M was designed by the design studio at the Automobile R&D Center of Honda R&D Coin Japan.

In addition, Honda introduced the Jade model, which is based on the Concept S. The latter was officially introduced at the 2012 Beijing Motor Show. However, Jade comes with innovative design which is based on an image of a jade stone, thus delivering beautiful exterior stance and sense of quality.

Honda Jade is planned to go on sale in September.

Source: Honda

April 23, 2013

TEASER: Bentley Continental GT by Vilner [VIDEO]

We have received extremely exciting news from the Bulgarian luxury tuning specialists at Vilner, who have just sent us a teaser video that reveals what will be their next exquisite project.

Studio Vilner have already established a very prominent position in the creation of superior interiors on different kind of automobiles of versatile classes. In addition, in their portfolio is evident that they have made some exterior finishes as well.

And now it is the time that they are also about to showcase their first entirely reworked automobile, which in addition is among the vehicles in luxury class. Namely, they have completely transformed a first generation Bentley Continental GT.

Of course, Vilner has paid great respect to the majestic and imposing design of this Continental GT, and on this sound basis they have created a project that is fully produced in Bulgaria.

All that is disclosed so far (besides the three designer’s images of the project) is that the tuning is accomplished in three directions. First of all, the exterior was changed with the aim to bring about more aggressive and unique stance. Secondly, this Bentley is equipped with entirely new interior. And at last, but not least – the power output of the car is enhanced.

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TviFOtry_6g

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Vilner

April 22, 2013

Author: Lidia Todorova

2014 Nissan Versa Sedan Pricing: