Lidia Todorova – Page 249 – Automobiles Review

SR Auto Enhances BMW F10 M5

The latest project of the tuners at SR Auto Group includes an optimization of the BMW F10 M5. The latter hides under its hood a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine which can generate 560 PS (412 kW) and has 680Nm (502 lb-ft) of torque.

This powerful unit is matched perfectly with a seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission. And all this contributes to an effortless acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.4 seconds on the way to a Vmax of 305 km/h.

This is the first project of SR Auto Group where they equip a BMW with wheels form PUR Wheels. In this case they have added PUR Legacy multispoke straight edged designed wheel in Matte Anthracite Face with Gloss Lumiere Grey Lip, which fitted perfectly the M5.

Even more, the sizes of the wheels here are impressive – 21×9 inches for the front and 21×10.5 inches for the rear. In addition, they were paired with a set of H&R lowering springs in order to create the even more menacing stance.

Source: SR Auto Group

April 12, 2013

Ford Extends EcoBoost Line-Up With New Fuel-Efficient 1.5 Engine

Ford has just announced the introduction of the 1.5-liter EcoBoost Engine which will be added to the lineup of fuel-efficient, innovative powertrains. According to the company this unit is a key strategic entry because it aims to meet the global demand for its four-cylinder EcoBoost engines.

In addition, Ford aims to produces 1.6 million EcoBoost engines annually. For this reason, by the end of 2013, six plants across Europe, Asia and North America will be producing EcoBoost engines.

The fifth member of the EcoBoost family will begin being built at Ford’s facility at Craiova, Romania. The new engine will be first introduced in China through the Ford Mondeo, which is going to make its debut at Auto Shanghai 2013. Next, the engine is planned to be applied to the Fusion sedan in North America and afterwards in the new Mondeo in Europe.

EcoBoost technologies enable enhancements in terms of fuel efficiency and emissions up to 20 and 15 percent respectively. In the current case, the 1.5-liter engine benefits from signature EcoBoost turbocharging, direct fuel injection and variable valve timing, and has been created to be more fuel efficient and offer high levels of refinement, quietness and performance.

The new aluminum-block, twin-cam 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine will feature innovations such as integrated exhaust manifold. And in addition, it is expected to deliver similar horsepower as its 1.6-liter sibling. However, it will be much more efficient in terms of emitting CO2.

What is more, this engine is the first one to include computer-controlled clutch on the belt-drive water pump. The result is that it will additionally enhance the efficiency through the reduction of the warm-up time. Additionally, a water-cooled charge air cooler is also being mounted in order to deliver more efficient feed of air into the engine.

Source: Ford

April 12, 2013

2014 Audi R8 Spyder V10 Goes Officially On Sale

2014 Audi R8 Spyder V10 offers unprecedented performance and has outstanding design which makes it stand at the pinnacle of Audi performance vehicles. The new R8 Spyder is in fact more dynamic and powerful than ever and is now officially on sale.

The optimizations included in this car are numerous. For example here is featured a new seven-speed S tronic transmission which contributes for the 0-60 km/h sprint to be reduced with 0.3 seconds. In addition, this transmission also substantially enhances the comfort through smoother gear shifts and greater efficiency.

Another instance is the new full-LED headlamp design, which gives the R8 distinctive appearance. But to go further into details, the engine which propels this Audi can generate 550 horsepower (404 kW) and 540 Nm (398 lb.-ft.) of torque.

This means that the car effortlessly cover the acceleration time sprint form standstill to 100 km/h in just 3.3 seconds on its way to the top speed of 196 mph. In addition, the overall weight of the R8 Spyder is circa 130 lbs less than the R8 V10. The reason for this are the new ceramic brakes, carbon fiber side blades, front splitter, rear diffuser, and spoiler; a smaller fuel tank; manual Alcantara® seats and reduced sound insulation in the engine bay.

In terms of interior, the model is adorned with beautiful diamond-stitch leather seats. As an option, an additional enhancement of the interior can be chosen and we are speaking here about the flat-bottom multi-function steering wheel.

And al last, if you are a fan of the Iron Man Movies, you will be happy to see the Audi R8 in the part three of the series. Tony Stark, played by Robert Downey Jr., will once again be back in the R8 as his car of choice.

2014 Audi R8 Pricing	R8 V8	R8 V10	R8 V10 Plus
Coupe	Manual $114,900	Manual $151,200	Manual $170,545
Coupe	S tronic $124,000	S tronic $160,300	S tronic $179,645
Spyder	Manual $128,400	Manual $164,700	NA
Spyder	S tronic $137,500	S tronic $173,800	NA

Source: Audi

April 12, 2013

Aston Martin Rapide S Hybrid Hydrogen To Compete At Nurburgring

Aston Martin Rapide S Hybrid Hydrogen Race Car is going to compete at the 41st ADAC Zurich 24 Hours of Nürburgring next month. This is the first hybrid hydrogen car created by the British brand, which is based on the Rapide S four-door, four-seat sports car.

This means that this hybrid is going to be not only the first hydrogen-powered car to compete in an international event but also the first zero CO2 emissions sports car to complete a race pace lap at the Nürburgring 24-hour race.

The model was created with the help of the hydrogen experts at Alset Global. The specialists at both brands have developed a prototype twin turbocharged 6.0-litre V12 engine that will power the race car.

Furthermore, this Aston Martin vehicle is able to run on pure gasoline, pure gaseous hydrogen, or a blend of both. For instance, when in pure hydrogen mode the car delivers zero emissions while emitting only water from its exhaust.

In addition, this Hybrid Hydrogen system consists of a hydrogen fuel rail, storage tanks and proprietary engine management system. The result is flexibility in the control of the combustion process: either pure hydrogen, gasoline or both can be chosen in order to generate maximum power, acceleration and CO2 reduction.

Safety was also considered a major component in this project. The system features four ultra-high strength carbon fibre tanks holding a total of 3.5 kg of hydrogen stored at a pressure of 350 bar. The two tanks are positioned next to the driver and two – in the boot of the car.

Showing a great capability of enhanced performance, the unit under the hood of the Aston Martin Rapide S Hybrid Hydrogen has a top speed of 190 mph and sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds.

Source: Aston Martin

April 12, 2013

Kahn Land Rover Defender Chelsea Wide Track Military Grey

Kahn Land Rover Defender Chelsea Wide Track Military Grey is an expression of workmanship and refinement. Its purposeful looks and rugged stance only highlights the more aggressive stance of the vehicle.

The vehicles are matched with expedition wheels, and the “Chelsea truck company”has bestowed upon us the military grey XS90 2.2 TDCI.

Kahn Military Defender is equipped with wide range of enhancements, including an aggressive looking wide track arch kit which consists of front and rear wide wings with integrated vents and bolt apertures, hardwearing mud flaps, front grille with embossed Kahn branding and mesh.

Kahn-Land-Rover-Defender-Chelsea-Wide-Track-Military-Grey-651-3

There are also added bonnet vents with mesh, xenon crosshair headlights, side vents with mesh, roof in satin black, Kahn oval tailgate badge, brake calipers finished in liquid red, extended wheel arches in satin black and front, rear wing vent mesh inserts, undercar Kahn logo projection floor light and the customary Chelsea Truck Company spare wheel cover.

The interior of this Land Rover is adorned by Kahn’s emblematic “bespoke touch”. Even more, it comes complete with front sports GTB racing seats and rear folding seats, billet machined leather steering wheel, vented foot pedals in machined aluminum, interior entry LED lights for the rear cabin, floor mats, Kahn fire extinguisher, rev counter and Churchill time clock facia in red.

Kahn Project runs on state-of-the art 8 X 16” 1948 Defender wheels which were fitted with 235 x 85 x 16” tyres.

Source: A. Kahn Design

April 11, 2013

Citroen DS Wild Rubis Concept Unveiled Ahead of Shanghai

Citroen DS Wild Rubis Concept is a one-of-a-kind model that has just been unveiled prior to its official premiere at Shanghai Motor Show later this month. The vehicle shows the design and technology directions of a future DS SUV.

DS Wild Rubis adds to the model range of DS3, DS4, DS5 and the Numéro 9 concept with its inimitable style. The concepts emotional exterior shows sophistication in design and attention to detail.

The model is destined to be a full-hybrid and includes plug-in technology, and it is packed with technological innovations. The unique profile of this Citroen concept mixes the powerful appearance of an SUV with the refined style of the DS line.

The model is 4.7 m in length, 1.95 m in width and 1.59 m in height, while its wheelbase is of 2.9 m. The car runs on 21” wheels that add its power and strength. In addition, the vehicle’s silhouette is highlighted by chrome signature on the side.

The roof bars on the other hand put an emphasis of the height, whilst hinting at power and performance, before blending into the bodywork and flow of the profile of the rear wing. Next, thee front fascia of DS Wild Rubis includes a three-dimensional radiator grille with the DS emblem.

The grill flows into full-LED headlights that are created via three mobile lighting modules and surrounded by scrolling indicator lights at the base and a tuning fork-shaped light signature on the edge.

At the rear there is also visible a new arrangement of the lights that look like they appear to be part of the raised tailgate. Here, the glass of the rear lights is encased in chrome, whilst a subtle lighting effect on the DS emblem creates more depth. The rear tailgate is emphasized by the chrome finish, incorporating the twin exhaust pipes.

Some of the highlights here feature side chrome signature, the multitude of sculptured details in the metal, the front and rear light signatures and the finish of the materials, like the guilloche pattern on the hub caps. At last, the hues and materials utilized in the DS Wild Rubis exude sophisticated appearance, while the color of the ruby red bodywork changes with the intensity of light.

Source: Citroen

April 11, 2013

Second Teaser Of Nissan Friend-ME Concept Revealed

After the first teaser that has been revealed of Nissan Friend-Me Concept a week ago, Nissan teases the public again with the reveal of another image of the new upcoming car, which is set to excite 2013 Auto Shanghai 2013. This time we are being introduced to the rear and side of the car that exude flowing lines and aerodynamic construction.

The new concept will include unique center console that allows “Four Seats, One Mind Connectivity”. This means that the information in the vehicle will be equally distributed among all aboard. As a matter of fact, Friend-ME targets the young customers in China.

In addition, Nissan will also showcase in Shanghai the Nissan GT-R, Quest, Murano and Teana. Furthermore at the exhibit, the bran will mark its first use of new global space design for motor shows. There the guests will be entirely immersed into Nissan’s world, appealing throughout with sight, sound, touch and even smell, with a new green tea-inspired “Nissan fragrance.”

Source: Nissan

April 11, 2013

Limited Production IND Mitsubishi Evo X 311RS Released

The limited production IND Mitsubishi Evo X 311RS has just been unveiled via the official Facebook page of the tuning brand. This time the specialist at IND have decided not to work on a favorite BMW model, but instead took a chance on the Mitsubishi Evo X. The result is exceptional!

The amazing Mitsubishi presented here carries the name project 311RS. It was envisioned by professional racing driver Ryan Gates with the aim to take an already excellent performance platform and turn it into a true sports car.

What have been changed here are car’s suspension, drivetrain, and braking systems. This limited edition will be offered in only eleven examples which are going to be built under the 311RS moniker.

What is more, the powerful engine tuning gives the car the ability to generate the astonishing 440 horsepower (324 kW). In addition, JRZ suspension tuned specifically to Ryan’s personal settings, and a brake package from Girodisc are some of the secret details that create a true sports car experience.

Source: IND via Facebook

April 11, 2013

Bugatti Teases Upcoming New Supercar

One of the most exceptional brands in the automotive world at the moment is undisputedly Bugatti. And every time we are to see something coming out of their luxury garage, makes us anticipate their new projects with greater eagerness.

This time, Bugatti teases the public with the release of an image on their official Facebook page. The image promises to show company’s latest example of exceptional Bugatti performance vehicle. On the page was also stated that the model will be unveiled in the next few days, so we are definitely inpatient about it.

And here are coming the big questions. Since from the released photo we can’t conclude which exactly will the model be, many suggestions appear. The best version is that it is going to be the Super Veyron, which probably won’t have a top speed limit.

Other rumors speak that the power it is going to generate is around the mind-blowing 1600 horsepower (which are equivalent to 1176 kW). The supercar will be probably equipped with 8.0- or 9.6-liter W-16 unit.

Wonder what the top speed and the acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h will be here. Maybe fewer than 2 seconds this time? It is also a possibility for this particular model to make its debut this autumn at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Picture Source: Bugatti via Facebook

April 10, 2013

2014 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor Special Edition Revealed

2014 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor Special Edition is an exceptional “step forward” of the ultimate high-performance off-road pickup truck. The Special Edition package gives the Raptor more uniqueness and makes it even more aggressive.

This Ford model adds more special touches to Raptor’s existing Luxury Package. The Ruby Red Metallic exterior color and box-side graphics makes it stand out in the crowd effortlessly. In addition, this Special Edition will be also offered in Tuxedo Black Metallic.

On the other hand, the interior also includes some special upgrades such as Brick Red seat bolsters with black inserts and cloth honeycomb highlights, console top finish panel, and center stack and door panel appliqué accents.

The Ford F-150 SVT Raptor was launched back in 2010 and since then it has made an impressive benchmark in the automotive industry in terms of low- and high-speed off-road performance. Its features, for instance the aggressive all-terrain tires, industry-exclusive internal triple-bypass FOX Racing Shox™ dampers, skid plates and standard Hill Descent Control™ made it irresistible for those who seek one-of-a-kind driving experiences.

In addition, the Torsen® limited-slip differential which is added to Raptor’s 4WD system enables the vehicle to keep the balance traction between both front wheels. What is more, beadlock-capable wheels are also featured here. Their role is to enhance the grip in low-traction conditions.

Next, the high-intensity discharge headlamps help the driver have better visibility of the road. SYNC® with MyFord Touch®was on the other hand offers connectivity. More importantly however is the exclusive 6.2-liter V8 engine under the hood of this beast.

It generates 411 horsepower (302 kW) and 434 lb.-ft. (588 Nm) of torque and is matched with an electronic six-speed automatic transmission with tow/haul mode and SelectShift Automatic® functionality. The 4WD system features electronic shift-on-the-fly capability for the transfer case.

2014 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor Special Edition goes on sale this autumn.

Source: Ford

April 10, 2013

MINI KAPOOOW! Installation At The Salone del Mobile 2013

MINI Design Team led by Anders Warming has created an installation – a MINI Paceman as a dynamic structure, which is currently being exhibited during the Salone del Mobile. The installation is set up in an authentic MINI realm of experience – the MINI Paceman Garage.

During the exhibit, MINI KAPOOOW! @MINI Paceman Garage will act as a launch pad and platform for creative exchanges among artists and designers while offering a wide range of events.

But to be more precise, the installation was inspired by the many and different assets of the Sports Activity Coupé. It tries to highlight MINI’s emotional essence and highly distinctive personality.

The first phase of the installation shows the rear end of the MINI Paceman as a dynamic sculpture. When one looks at it feels like it is going to undergo very soon a metamorphosis.

The individual vehicle components seem to fly apart, the colorful threads emanating from it representing this highly energy-charged process. In addition, an interesting element is that the MINI is connected with the people whose profiles can be seen at the front end.

The second step of the installation is where the Paceman crosses a boundary in the middle of the room. This phase offers and interesting new view of the car. It leaves its original form and the front end becomes an idea made of paper.

Only the general, the lines are kept and through numerous bits of paper and colored tabs the MINI Paceman manifest into a new physical form. As a matter of fact, the utilization of paper symbolizes the “prototyping” of a creative process.

The end goal of this interesting project is to present a colourful “wall of fame” displaying not only successful MINI models but also well-known film and cult personalities. To be your own hero – this is the motto which stays behind this unique artistic journey of MINI’s.

Source: MINI

April 10, 2013

Limitless Potential For SR Auto Lamborghini Gallardo

SR Auto Lamborghini Gallardo or Project Limitless is the name of the latest work of the tuning professionals at SR Auto Group. The production version of this Lamborghini model is powered by a 5.2 liter V10 engine, which generates 550 hp (405 kW) and delivers 540Nm (398 lb-ft) of torque.

These numbers point to the fact that the car can accelerate effortlessly from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.2 seconds on its way to the top speed of 319 km/h (198 mph). Vehicle’s aggressive driving capabilities are underscored even more by unique set of wheels.

They perfectly match the fierce personality of the Gallardo and undoubtedly create a whole new experience. PUR Wheels were those responsible for the delivery of the new set of “showes” for the supercar. In this project they have debuted their tenth monoblock design.

It is finished in the illustrious shade of Davinci Red and gives even more boldness to the five spoke wheel design. The spokes are much more pronounced when compared to its nine other predecessors. To be more precise, the exact sizes of these wheels 19×8.5 inches for the front and 19×11 for the rear.

Source: SR Auto Group

April 9, 2013

Author: Lidia Todorova