Author: Lidia Todorova

Renault Twin’Z Concept Revealed

Renault Twin’Z Concept is a joint project between the French brand and the British designer Ross Lovegrove. This vehicle brings together two worlds and is inspired by the mixture of the design used in furniture and automobiles.

Twin’Z illustrates Renault’s new design strategy. The concept is fun, modern and artistic take on the city car, and is inspired by the emblematic Renault 5 and Renault Twingo. In addition, the Twin’Z is an all-electric car with rear-wheel drive and a rear-mounted motor.

The role of the British designer Ross Lovegrove in this project was to enhance the aesthetics of the vehicle. The effect is a sophisticated blend of technology and refinement, and a combination of unprecedented play on light and organic forms.

In general, the Twin’Z is an electric supermini, which has an architecture that includes a rear-mounted motor and batteries located beneath the floor, and in addition it frees up exceptional cabin space and delivers high quality handling that makes it enjoyable to drive.

For this concept Ross Lovegrove found his inspiration in the world of nature. He was guided by a quest for a harmonious encounter between the automobile and its environment. Additionally, Laurens van den Acker is sensitive to this refined, human approach which is inspired by the world of nature and the opportunities unleashed by the latest digital 3D modelling technologies.

The team of the designer was given the task to provide the finishing details to Twin’Z’s bodywork: bumpers, lights, grilles, LED roofscape, wheels. His studio was also responsible for designing the interior, including the choice of colours and materials, in conjunction with Renault.

Furthermore, the Twin’Z is only 3.62 metres long, but it has high waistline, and is equipped with 18” wheels. Its all-electric, rear-wheel drive architecture allows the wheels to be pushed out to the car’s extreme corners in order to deliver solid grounding and large platform.

In terms of exterior, the concept is painted in striking blue color, which pays tribute to 20th century French painter Yves Klein. It is almost like a satin finish and it suggests that the pigmentation is inside the body and not applied. The soft clear-coat finish produces a velvet-like feel, while the iridescence lifts the car’s ‘electro-natural’ appearance.

What is more, the design of the grille design makes a vortex effect. It channels the air flow and minimizes the turbulence thus enhancing the aerodynamic performance. The same motif has been embossed into the rear bumper as an echo of the lighting signature.

Next, the Twin’Z’s front and rear doors are hinged at the front and rear respectively and open electrically. When one looks at the wheels and tyres, one surely sees that when they were designed the aim was to resemble a single entity. The wheels include a glowing green finish and their design is based on intelligent growth structures inspired by nature. The solid central core splits into slender branches which strike out towards the rim. The tures on which this Renault model runs were developed by Michelin.

Twin’Z’s all-LED lighting allows controlled light patterns to be obtained and emphasizes the car’s lighting signature. The headlight assembly is minimized in order to give a graphic effect, and in addition a sequence of LEDs also extends from the grille to the rear bumper via the roof.

A pattern of light originates from the Renault lozenge badge and flows towards the head lights before climbing up over the windscreen pillars, along the roofline and then back down to the rear bumper. All this brings the Twin’Z alive.

In addition, LEDs can also be seen on the glass roof which is designed in layers and forms animated patterns. There are no conventional door mirrors here because they were substituted with an integrated video camera that has been aerodynamically ‘liquified’ within the body. The rear clusters have made way for LED lighting incorporated into the glass.

How about the interior of this car – it is as exceptional as the exterior. Although the model has compact proportions, it delivers spaciousness to the occupants. The double floorpan results in high-up driving position, which in turn contributes for a better view of the road and surrounding environment.

When one sits in this concept one feels the lightness and purity, thanks to the rear-hinged rear doors and the ensuing absence of a B-pillar which reveal a panoramic view of the cabin. Milled bi-colour lines circulate round the entire cabin. They offer a sense of flow of energy, lighting up the interior with a luminescent green that maps its topographical forms.

What is more, the four lightweight seats have been created as small as possible. They include green frames which “grow” naturally from the floor and have been upholstered in a 3D woven, self-cushioning, lightweight blue textile which is both waterproof and flame-resistant.

Here the LEDs also play a crucial role. They have been embedded into the frame’s branches in order to pick out their forms and illuminate the interior. Next, the Twin’Z’s steering column immediately draws the attention. Here one can’t see a dashboard, which means that front occupants enjoy exceptional room.

The utilization of Human Machine Interfaces has been reduced and brought to minimum. Instead of a dashboard one can see a single tablet with a touchscreen display that is mounted on a centrally-positioned post. The tablet takes care of everything: heater, seat adjustment, lights activation, control of the roof, GPS guidance system, in-car connectivity, and etc.

Renault Twin’Z Concept Technical Specifications:

Length: 3,627mm
Width: 1,705mm
Height: 1,506mm
Wheelbase: 2495mm
Weight: 980kg
Top speed: 81 mph
Range: 100 miles
Rear-mounted 50kW (68hp) synchronous electric motor with rotor coil
Maximum torque: 226Nm
Four lithium-ion battery packs spaced evenly beneath the floor
Voltage: 96V
Drive: rear-wheel drive
Transmission: direct drive with reducer gear and forward/reverse invertor
Specific Michelin tyres: 205/40 R18
Ross Lovegrove-designed 18-inch aluminium alloy wheels
Front suspension: MacPherson-type arrangement
Rear suspension: double wishbones
Adjustable Ohlins dampers
Chassis: tubular frame
Carbon fibre bodywork

Source: Renault

Honda Debuts Two Concept Models at Auto Shanghai [TEASER]

Honda and Acura will debut two concept models at the 2013 Auto Shanghai later this month. Both models are going to be introduced to the Chinese market in the near future and they will show Honda’s new direction in terms of design.

The vehicles will be almost identical to the mass-production version of the Concept C and Concept S. The latter models were presented for the first time last year at the Beijing Motor Show and their mass-production models are scheduled to be introduced to the market this year.

What is more, Honda will also feature at the show the following models: Accord, Odyssey, City, Crosstour, Fit, CR-Z, Fit Hybrid, Li Nian S1, CR-V, Civic, Spirior, Elysion, Insight, CIIMO. In addition, the brand will showcase the RC212V, GOLDWING, VFR1200F Motorcycles.

On the other hand, Acura will exhibit the world premiere of a new global concept model, next to the all-new RLX and NSX Concept, which will be introduced for the first time in China.

Source: Honda

Maserati Ghibli To Debut In Shanghai

Maserati Ghibli has just been unveiled before its official world preview at Shanghai Motor Show later this month. The upcoming four-door sports executive saloon will break new ground for Maserati brand with its sportier character and aesthetic attributes.

The model has more aggressive presence when compared to the larger Quattroporte. The latter was introduced to the general public in the beginning of this year. In addition, it was also disclosed that the Ghibli will be offered with a choice of two turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engines.

The units will be mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and both rear-wheel drive and the new “Q4” all-wheel drive system. What is more, the new model will be the first production Maserati production to be powered by diesel engine – namely the 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel.

Maserati Ghibli is the first saloon in this segment and comes to satisfy those executive car buyers who are in search for individuality, sportiness, elegance and luxury. With the help of this car, Maserati aims to realize its growth plan to sell 50,000 cars per year.

Source: Maserati

2013 Nissan GT-R Breaks Records In Russia [VIDEO]

One of the most impressive machines on planet Earth is 2013 Nissan GT-R. The latest adventure it embarked on is in Russia where with the help of LAV Productions Company it has set the goal to break the speed record on natural ice.

The event happened literally on Lake Baikal under severe weather conditions. The temperature was – 22 Degrees Celsius and the ice depth was enough (1.4 m) to sustain the weight of the Nissan. The team there came to the Lake in order to set a new world speed record on ice for a standard production vehicle.

Although given the fact that the GT-R can generate 540 horsepower (397 kW), the ice under the wheels definitely made the task tougher and much harder. Roman Rusinov and Andrey Leontjev were those who mastered the unusual challenge and according to their words, thanks to Nissan GT-R’s all wheel drive, they have managed to fully realize the power of the torque – which is 632 Nm (466 kW) at 3200 to 5800 rpm.

The end result is that they have ended up breaking a record: the top speed achieved is exactly 294.8 km/h. If you want to know more about what exactly happened there, just view the video below.

httpv://youtu.be/lDfqWSj3Umw

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Nissan

2014 Acura RDX With Announced US Pricing

2014 Acura RDX Crossover SUV goes on sale and has been entirely redesigned for the 2013 model year. It includes now a new engine, transmission and all-wheel drive system, and will be offered with an additional new Kona Coffee exterior paint, replacing the previous Amber Brownstone.

To go further into details, the 2014 RDX is powered by 3.5-liter V-6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. It also has an all-wheel-drive system as an option. The power it can generate is exactly 273 hp (200 kW). Acura’s SUV exterior exudes aerodynamically efficient body with Amplitude Reactive Dampers and a motion adaptive electronic power steering system.

In terms of interior, the new RDX includes premium materials and generous use of noise insulation. Some of the features which come as a standard here are leather seating surfaces, heated power front seats, a power moonroof, 360-watt audio system, Pandora® internet radio interface, an SMS text messaging function, a Keyless Access System with pushbutton start, an Active Noise Control system and a Multi-Angle Rearview Camera system.

On the other hand what might be ordered optionally through the Technology Package is the following: AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, a hard disk drive (HDD) with 60 gigabytes of storage capacity, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting™, AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™, a GPS-linked solar-sensing, dual-zone automatic climate control system, Acura/ELS Surround® Premium Sound System, a power-actuated rear tailgate, projector beam headlights with Bi-Xenon High Intensity Discharge (HID) bulbs and front fog lights.

2014 Acura RDX Pricing:

TRIM	MSRP USD	EPA
RDX	$34,520	20/28/23
RDX with Technology Package	$38,220	20/28/23
RDX with AWD	$35,920	19/27/22
RDX with AWD and Technology Package	$39,620	19/27/22

Source: Acura

Daihatsu Mebius S Touring Offers Hybrid Power

Daihatsu Mebius S Hybrid vehicle is a result of a partnership between Daihatsu and Toyota. This launch is part of the business collaboration in the environmental technology field in Japan agreed. In fact, the Mebius is the second hybrid vehicle supplied under this agreement.

The hybrid hides under its hood a 1.8 liter hybrid system and achieves a low fuel consumption of 26.2 km/l in JC08 mode. This is possible thanks to the synergy created by a Cd value of 0.29, outstanding aerodynamic performance and weight reduction.

Furthermore, the model offers a spacious and comfortable interior with a high-capacity trunk space. The body dimensions here are: 4,615 mm length, 1,775 mm width and 1,575 mm height. Mebius features two rows of seats, which are positioned a little higher, which effects in better field of vision while. This also contributes towards a more comfortable interior with enough head clearance and ample leg space.

Daihatsu Mebius S Hybrid Details of the Hybrid System:

Engine	Model	2ZR-FXE
	Displacement (cc)	1797
	Max. output (kW[PS]/rpm)	73[99]/5,200
	Max. torque (N•m[kgf•m]/rpm)	142[14.5]/4,000
Motor	Max. output (kW[PS]/)	60[82]
Motor	Max. torque (N•m[kgf•m]	207[21.1]
Overall system	Max. output (kW[PS]/)	100[136]
Batteries	Nickel metal hydride (NiMH)

Source: Daihatsu

Gemballa Porsche Cayenne Equipped With New Sports Exhaust System With Sound Valve Control

Gemballa Porsche Cayenne delivers unique sound which makes its character even more irresistable for those who are keeen on the model. The powerful vehicle is equipped with V8-petrol engine and has received a distinctive sounding sports exhaust system.

In order to achieve the perfect balance between strict noise limits in town and a throaty roar on the open road, Gemballa specialists have incorporated a variable exhaust valve into Porsche’s system.

This tuning has been especially created for the naturally-aspirated Cayenne S and GTS models, and it comprises of new rear silencer boxes. On the other hand, the Turbo and Turbo S come with adaptors that slip over their larger pipes. In addition, there is also an electronic module which controls the exhaust valves.

Furthermore, the exhaust system is made from high quality stainless steel and utilizes a larger diameter internal tubing which reduces the back-pressure. The result is that the system helps the engine to breathe more freely, and gives it an additioonal 10 hp (7.35 kW).

What also has been done here are the end pipes which now have the distinctive Gemballa look. This was achieved with the help of triple outlets per side. Next, after major testing on the engine dyno, the exhaust was installed and driven thousands of kilometers on both road and track to prove its durability.

To go even further into detials, the triple outlet pipe design can be ordered in “BLACK MAGIC” finish and in conventional twin outlet-per-side end pipe design in polished stainless steel.

Source: Gemballa

Exclusive: Detroit Electric SP:01 Unveiled!

Detroit Electric is officially back on the market with the disclosure of their emissions-free Detroit Electric SP:01 limited-edition. The two-seat pure-electric sports car aims to set new standards in terms of performance and handling in the electric vehicle (EV) segment. Only 999 examples of this EV will be built at Detroit Electric’s new production facility in Wayne County, Michigan.

The electric model has an impressive 155 mph (249 km/h) top speed and is capable of covering the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint in only 3.7 seconds. This literally makes the SP:01 the world’s fastest pure-electric production car.

The EV’s astonishing performance is due to its excellent power-to-weight ratio. The rear-wheel-drive SP:01 includes a compact, mid-mounted 201 hp (148 kW) electric motor that delivers 225 Nm (166 lb-ft) of torque. Adding to this are the lightweight, purpose-designed battery pack and all-new carbon-fibre bodywork. The result is that the total weight is only 2,354 lb.

The Detroit Electric model is based on a strong lightweight aluminium platform, and features carbon-fibre bodywork, specialised performance-tuned suspension, steering and brake systems. They contribute to car’s class-leading ride and handling characteristics.

The innovative powertrain generates an electromagnetic field around the rotor shaft, which then spins at varying speeds to drive the wheels. Moreover, the person behind the wheel can select one of four gear ratios in order to achieve maximum acceleration.

Furthermore, the battery has an impressive energy storage capacity of 37 kWh, which gives the SP:01 a range of almost 190 miles between recharges. Full charge is achieved in 4.3 hours.

Vehicle’s bespoke bodywork is constructed entirely of carbon fibre, and its angular lines and muscular stance gives it bold, imposing design while at the same time they also optimize the aerodynamic efficiency. The one-piece front panel for instance includes sharply contoured bonnet and angular front fenders with imposing air-intakes.

At the rear, the compact rear light cluster resembles those of high-performance American sports cars of the past. There can also be seen integrated side cooling ducts. In addition, a transparent inspection window displays the vehicle’s impressive battery technology.

What is more, the interior of the vehicle combines combines luxurious refinement with advanced technology. Here are to be found carbon-fibre and specially selected leather finishes. The cabin of the SP:01 includes innovative technologies as well. The infotainment system of the car is named “SAMI” which stands for Smartphone Application Managed Infotainment system.

The latter provides access to functions such as music player, satellite navigation, interior lighting adjust and vehicle systems status. SAMI can also be utilized as a remote control unit which helps the owner locating the vehicle, turning the climate control system or checking the charge status.

An all-disc braking system, coupled with ABS (anti-lock braking) and ESP (Electronic Stability Control) comes here as a standard. What is more exceptional however is the Regenerative Braking technology that sets the car apart, underpinning superb stopping performance while ensuring greater energy efficiency.

Detroit Electric SP:01 will have a starting price of $135 000 USD.

Source: Detroit Electric

Lancia Delta S by Momodesign Launched

Lancia Delta S by Momodesign is the new special series vehicle which was born out of the collaboration of the two brands. The model targets the male metropolitan customer, who is looking for a distinctive style.

In addition, the new Lancia model has advanced aesthetics due to the chromatic interventions that reflect the stylistic features of the products designed by Momodesign. In addition, the car can be equipped with a choice of wide range of high-performance engines.

First, there is the 190 hp (140 kW) 1.9 Twin Turbo MultiJet engine which is at the top of the range and delivers sporty performance. It has a peak torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) at 2,000 rpm, which results in a top speed of 222 km/h and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds. Secondly, the 120 hp (88 kW) 1.6 MultiJet is the perfect instance of the “downsizing” construction philosophy that mixes brilliant torque with low consumption.

Next, the 120 hp (88 kW) 1.4 Turbo Jet LPG is the only Turbo LPG engine in its category, which in addition is eco-friendly but agile, and has a range of over 1,400 km. At last, there is also available the 120 hp (88 kW) 1.4 Turbo Jet delivering low running costs.

In terms of exterior, Lancia Delta S by Momodesign plays with colour contrasts in order to highlight even more the details. Some of the aesthetic features include side skirts and bumper in the same shade as the body, “dark-chrome” finishes, burnished headlights, 18″ rims finished with dark shadow treatment, twin chrome exhaust pipe and gloss black tailgate.

On the latter is positioned the letter “S” shines which signifies the special series and synthesizes its positioning based on three main values: Style, Substance and sports Seduction. Moreover, the new Delta S will be offered in additional two new colours: the metallic Antracite Grey and Antracite Grey/Eclissi Black two-tone. They will be featured next to the already available colours: Zenit White, Magma Black and the Zenit White/Eclissi Black two-tone.

Adding to this, the interior is elegant and expresses an energetic and dynamic personality. The same stylistic elegance of the exterior is translated here: the gloss black central console, speedometer with yellow shades and special sporty leather and fabric seats with blue stitching, blue stitching on the steering wheel, gear lever gaiter, handbrake lever and door panels.

Furthermore, there is also generous standard equipment included: cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, electrically operated mirrors, leather steering wheel with music controls and front armrest.

Prices for the Lancia Delta S by Momodesign start from 23 400 Euros for the 120 HP 1.4 Turbo Jet version; 25 400 Euros for the 120 HP 1.4 Turbo Jet LPG engine; 26 400 Euros for the two MultiJet turbodiesel engines: 190 HP 1.9 Twin Turbo MultiJet and 120 HP 1.6 MultiJet.

Source: Lancia

Rolls-Royce Art Deco Phantom Debuts In Jakarta

Rolls-Royce Art Deco Phantom has made an official debut in Jakarta. The collector’s luxury car is one of only 35 cars in the world that celebrates the significant artistic movement known as Art Deco. This movement was prominent in the beginning of the 20th century and has defined it, and nowadays is making a renaissance in design and art circles.

The Art Deco Collection of Rolls-Royce is in fact unique series of bespoke cars, beautifully designed to express elegance and exceptional capabilities. The Phantom was the perfect canvas for this artistic project and in addition it exudes all that the Art Deco style is about.

As a matter of fact, the artistic movement employed futuristic crystallized motifs referencing Greek classicism and Egyptian relics mixed with the dynamics of the age of the machine and streamlined automotive liberation. Its influence can be even seen very well in architecture, automotive design, marketing, ceramics and furniture making.

Source: Rolls-Royce

Prior Design Audi R8 GT850 Exudes Wider On-Road Presence

Prior-Design-Audi-R8-GT850-651 The attention of the tuners at Prior Design has recently been directed towards the enchanting Audi R8. The latter has great strength thanks to the massive V10 engine that is hidden under its hood.

This means that Prior Design Audi R8 GT850 offers exceptional performance. The 5.2 litre engine is capable of generating 525 hp (386 kW) and 530 Nm (391 lb-ft) of torque. On the road these numbers mean that the Audi will accelerate from stand still to a 100km/h in only 4.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 194mph.

Having all these facts in mind, the tuning specialist decided to give the R8 a new widebody appearance. They have created especially for it the Audi R8 PD GT850 Widebody Aerodynamic-Kit.

In particular, the kit includes the following elements: PD GT850 front bumper, PD GT850 front lip spoiler (for PD GT850 front bumper), PD GT850 side skirts, PD GT850 rear bumper, PD GT850 rear diffusor, PD GT850 front fenders, PD GT850 rear widenings, PD GT850 front bonnet, PD GT850 rear trunk spoiler.

All of the elements are made from quality Dura-Flex FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) material which has excellent surface finish that provides sufficient flexibility combined with high stability and allows for easy and inexpensive painting. In addition, the parts are all made with excellent fitment with no modifications or changes needed.

Source: Prior Design