Lidia Todorova – Page 306 – Automobiles Review

SR Chevrolet Corvette C6 Inspired Autosport Project M47

The Corvette C6 is indeed emblematic machine. With its unique body work it can be recognized whenever it appears on the streets. And as the outlook speaks, it is fantastic sportscar with great amount of power.

In particular it can generate 400 horsepower (300 kW) at 6000 rpm and 400 lb•ft (542 N•m) of torque at 4400 rpm thanks to its 6.0 L LS2 V8 engine. But this wasn’t enough for the specialists at Inspired Autosport, who have been building this gorgeous C6 Corvette.

With the release of the much anticipated C7 Corvette around the corner, the current platform will be undoubtedly missed. SR Chevrolet Corvette C6 Inspired Autosport Project M47 was in the beginning the regular C6 Corvette Convertible, with the characteristics typical for the production car.

SR Chevrolet Corvette C6 Inspired Autosport Project M47

However, huge transformations took place. Some of them included modifications on the power plant, the chassis and of course – some cosmetic improvements. For instance, the original set of wheels has been light weight and wide one.

Here the tuners have equipped the Chevrolet with factory wide body kit from the 2012 Corvette Grand Sport model. Furthermore they have installed new front bumper, front and rear fenders installed.

This allowed the professionals from PUR Wheels to step in the creation of the project. They have equipped the Corvette with a 20×13 fitment which would support massive stream roller size 345/25/20 tires out rear.

In fact, the exact design is named PUR design 4OUR, which is in a stealthy high gloss black finish and matches the new gloss black paint job on the car. Other improvements include the addition of many extensive engine bolt-ons, suspension tweaks and full race exhaust front to back.

Source: SR Auto Group

July 31, 2012

Vilner Ducati Monster 1100 Evo

Vilner Ducati Monster 1100 Evo is the latest project of our talented friends from the Bulgarian tuning company Vilner. Although it is not a car, their exquisite and excellent work has grabbed our attention and as you can see from the pictures, it is high-quality craftsmanship they have showed here.

The main purpose of Studio is minimal optical tuning on the Ducati Monster Evo 1100, which has served as a basis. They didn’t want to exaggerate the details. The reason for this is that the bike had to be more compact in order to maneuver flawlessly through the narrow streets of the city and during traffic.

Moreover the designers have revealed that they had as an inspiration the mantis, because it has such clean lines of its body and elegant movements, which by the way served as a basis for the martial art of Kung Fu.

But what have basically Vilner done here is the following: they have included two side pieces secured with aluminum holders to the frame. They are connected with third detail, which strengthens the construction and tames the vibrations.

Furthermore a new detail is included on the seat as well as new lighthouse. The tuners have taken car the power of the engine as well which now is raised with 10 horsepower. The tail is now shorter with a 10 cm-design.

All parts and details are painted in white pearl color that is not factory offered. Unlike the standard Ducati white pearl, which is with golden tone, this one is with gray tone. The rims are also painted – this time in two colors to make the bike even more exceptional.

Vilner Custom Bike will produce 100 kits.

Source: Vilner

July 31, 2012

Lexus LS reinvented flagship finally revealed

2013 Lexus LS Range has just been unveiled. Since its launch, which dated back in 2007, this flagship has undergone over 2500 improvements. This year, Lexus is to add 3000 improvements and component changes to the vehicle model line-up.

The exterior of the new LS has been significantly redesigned. Every panel, excluding the roof, rear quarter panel and doors, has been transformed in some way. This not only enhances the visual appeal, but also serves in terms of functionality, and reduces wind noise.

Furthermore all LS hybrid models will include three-bulb LED headlamps for low and high beam with i-AFS (Intelligent Adaptive Front lighting System). The new LS 460 models will gain in turn Bi-Xenon HID headlamps with AFS.

In the new range one can see front guards, bumper and bonnet that give LS a wider, lower appearance. In addition, when observed from the rear, all models include resculpted boot lid, tail lamps and bumper.

The LS range is set to run on new wheel rim designs as well. For instance, the F Sport is equipped with exclusive 19-inch alloy wheels, and Sport Luxury models will come with new 14-spoke hollow rim 19-inch alloys.

What has been even more significantly modified here us the LS interior. The instrument panel is divided into two distinct zones: an upper display zone, with the new-to-LS standard 12.3-inch wide LCD multi-display screen – and a lower operation zone, including Lexus Remote Touch (LRT) and a new Drive Mode Select system.

The centre console is flanked by new aluminum and asymmetric gear shift lever that has been leather-clad for a comfortable grip and the new five-mode Drive Mode Select.

Next, the front seats now have enhanced heating and cooling systems. The cabin is complemented by the world’s first Advanced Illumination System (AIS).

The range is fitted as standard with a 450-Watt, 19-speaker Mark Levinson® Reference Surround System with 7.1 channel surround sound, which will entertain the passengers. The audio system is complemented by a comprehensive rear seat entertainment system, including a separate DVD player and a nine-inch VGA screen for the 5.1-channel home theatre entertainment experience of the Mark Levinson® Reference Surround System.

Furthermore, there are new interior color options: Mellow White, Ivory, Light Grey, Black, and Black and Saddle Tan. The variety of ornamentation has also been expanded and now includes Walnut and matt Ashburl finishes, as well as Shimamoku, bamboo and aluminum on F Sport.

The driving dynamics of the LS flagship has also been improved. A lot of engineering improvements have been done which eventually result in a more rigid platform. It provides a stable base for suspension improvements, while also enhancing overall vehicle safety and comfort, and reducing vibration.

Some important highlights included here are: Adaptive Variable air Suspension (AVS) system, revised Electro Powering Steering (EPS) system calibration, and enhanced braking system.

More importantly, for the first time in the history of the brand, a new F Sport model is featured in the LS range. Here the body height is lowered further by 10 millimeters, which ensures more exciting and sporty driving.

The rear-wheel drive 2013 Lexus LS 460 F Sport is equipped with a torque-sensing, Torsen® limited-slip rear differential, which optimally distributes torque between the rear wheels and Brembo six-piston front brake callipers which offer smooth, highly stable braking performance, Active Stabiliser system for enhanced body control and steering response precision, Sports Program Direct Shift (SPDS).

At last but not least, some important technology and safety features have been also included here: Dubbed Lexus Climate Concierge system, which combines automatic operation of front and rear seat climate control; steering wheel rim heater; LS Climate Control systems with Nanoe® air purifying technology; Pre-Collision Safety System’s (PCS) Driver Alert Monitor, which constantly monitors the movement of the driver’s head when looking from side to side, via two built-in near infra-red LEDs and a CCD camera; Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), which plays a significant role in lane changing safety; and Automatic High Beam system, which now comes as a standard.

Source: Lexus

July 31, 2012

Mcchip-Dkr Porsche Panamera Diesel with power upgrade

Another tuning for Panamera today. This time it is delivered by the specialists from Mcchip-Dkr, who have enhanced a Porsche Panamera Diesel model. Tha latter has only 250 horsepower generated from the strong 3.0 litre V6 Common Rail Turbo-Diesel Engine.

Obviously this wasn’t enough for the tuners, who specialize in particular in software optimization and chip tuning. Via targeted manipulations of the engine characteristics, the electronic experts achieved a boost in the performance.

As a result, the diesel engine now generates 285 horsepower, developed at 3,900 rotations per minute. The maximum torque now is 600 Newton meter, achieved at 1,850 rotations per minute.

Another important effect of the improvements made is that the Porsche now sprints about half-a-second faster from 0 to 100 km/h than its serial counterpart. Maximum speed is boosted uo to the number of 246 km/h.

Enhancements in the lateral dynamics have been made as well. In order to increase longitudinal dynamics, mcchip-dkr also installed a set of performance springs from H&R. Their purpose is to lower the big Porsche with 30 millimetres.

To round up the spory stance of the Panamera, the three-part cargraphic rims of the sizes 9×22 and 10.5×22 inches were included. In fact, they were soled with the Dunlop Sport Maxx GT high-performance tires of the dimensions 265/30R22 in front and 295/25R22 in the rear.

Source: mcchip-dkr

July 30, 2012

Hamann Porsche Panamera Cyrano

The latest project of the German based tuning company HAMANN-Motorsport is named Hamann Porsche Panamera Cyrano. As we all know the Porsche is coming from the factory with great amount of power and shows significant performance.

However, even more power has been given to this Gran Turismo which is 603 hp/ 443 kW.

The torque has been increased as well and is now up to 870 Nm at 2,250 – 4,500 rpm. Given these numbers, it is no surprise that the ttuned vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds.

Furthermore, the Panamera can be also equipped with the Sport Chrono Package. With it, the vehicle accelerates even faster. Here we are speaking about 3.7 seconds for the acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h.

With the increase of the aforementioned data, the top speed increases as well to the impressive 315 km/h and thus it conclusively thumbs its proverbial nose at the series models (Turbo 303 km/h, Turbo S 306 km/h).

In the process of transformation, the HAMANN designers and engineers revamped the front completely. Here now can be seen larger air intakes in connection with perfectly integrated daytime running lights. They give the Porsche more dynamic stance.

The bonnet has been redesigned as well, so now the airflow is optimized. Furthermore, there has been added 60 mm width to the front and rear fenders. The aim of this is to make the GranTurismo look even more imposing.

In order to reduce the up-lift forces at the rear axle, there has been developed a special diffuser rear apron, which encases the striking dual tailpipes of the sports exhaust system.

To enhance even further the powerful and sporty stance of the Cyrano, the German engineers have added new unique forged “Gunmetal” 22-inch rims. The rear is fitted with 11.0Jx22 inch rims and 305/25 ZR 22 tyres.

It is good also to mention that the handling of the car is significantly improved as well. In addition, what grab the eye are the new alu wheels with special suspensions or a lowering module for the air suspension. They lower the Panamera’s center of gravity up to 30 mm.

How about the interior? Although we were not given an image, the tuners say that it has been entirely redesigned as well. The interior is now wrapped with the finest leathers. The HAMANN aluminium pedal system shines in the footwell and complements perfectly the medical applications of the car’s serial production interior.

Source: HAMANN

July 30, 2012

2013 Audi R8 Range – Pricing Announced

The new Audi R8 range is now equipped with faster S tronic twin-clutch sports transmission. In addition, complementing the range is the new lighter and more powerful V10 plus model.

In fact the S tronic twin-clutch sports transmission delivers quicker gear shifts and enhanced sprinting ability. This one replaces the R tronic automated manual option and is offered as an alternative to the acclaimed six-speed manual gearbox with its open stainless steel gate. The twin-clutch S tronic transmission can make its rapid fire shifts via the selector lever or the steering wheel paddles.

Another highlight of the R8 range is the new design detailing and all-LED lighting across the board. Most important update however is the version of the V10 Coupé – which generates the amount of 550 horsepower.

Furthermore, the integration of the new 7-speed S tronic transmission has lowered CO2 emissions by up to 22 grams/km, and in V8 and V10 Coupé and V10 Spyder versions it has also improved the acceleration time from 0 to 62 mph by three-tenths of a second.

In particular, the 4.2-litre V8 FSI engine generates 430 hp (316 kW) at 7,900 rpm, and has a maximum torque of 430 Nm (582 lb-ft) between 4,500 and 6,000 rpm. The acceleration here from 0 to 62mph is 4.3 seconds and the top speed – 186mph.

On the other hand the R8 V8 Spyder in manual and S tronic forms takes care of the sprint in 4.5 and 4.8 seconds respectively. The top speed in both cases is 186mph. Next, the V10 engine generates 530 Nm (718 lb-ft) of torque at 6,500 rpm, and peak power of 525 hp (386 kW) available at 8,000 rpm. The acceleration time here is 3.6 seconds and the top speed is 195mph.

Audi-R8-V10-Plus-medium — 2013 Audi R8 V10 Plus

The new Audi R8 V10 plus develops 550 hp (405 kW) and maximum torque of 540 Nm (731 lb-ft) at 6,500 rpm. This version sprints from 0 to 62mph in 3.5 seconds and achieves a top speed of 197mph when linked to S tronic transmission.

Moreover, ll-LED headlights are now standard on all variants of the Audi R8. They go along with new strip-shaped daytime running lights. The latter form a ‘clasp’ around the lens. The light-emitting diodes for the high and low beam headlights have been positioned above and below the daytime running lights and serve as indicators.

Enhancements have been done to the interior as well. A new R8 badge appears on the gearshift or selector lever, in the door sill trims, in the instrument cluster and in the start screen of the on-board monitor, on the flattened rim of the leather-covered multifunction sports steering wheel.

The instrument cluster is transformed as well, and at the same time the centre console, the surround for the radio/navigation system and the handbrake lever are also now covered with delicately stitched leather.

As standard equipment here is featured the following: all-LED headlights, new design 19-inch alloy wheels, Audi Music Interface (iPod connection), satellite navigation, Bluetooth mobile phone preparation and heating for their Fine Nappa Leather-upholstered sports seats.

2013 Audi R8 Range Specifications and Pricing

Engine	Trim	PS	Trans	CO2	Comb mpg	OTR
4.2 FSI (V8)	Coupe	430	manual	332	19.9	£91,575
4.2 FSI (V8)	Coupe	430	S tronic	289	22.8	£94,475
5.2 FSI (V10)	Coupe	525	manual	346	19.0	£112,675
5.2 FSI (V10)	Coupe	525	S tronic	305	21.6	£115,575
5.2 FSI (V10 plus)	Coupe	550	manual	346	19.0	£124,675
5.2 FSI (V10 plus)	Coupe	550	S tronic	299	21.9	£127,575
4.2 FSI (V8)	Spyder	430	manual	337	19.6	£100,225
4.2 FSI (V8)	Spyder	430	S tronic	294	22.4	£103,125
5.2 FSI (V10)	Spyder	525	manual	349	19.0	£121,325
5.2 FSI (V10)	Spyder	525	S tronic	310	21.9	£124,225

Source: Audi

July 30, 2012

2012 Honda CR-V Facelift [VIDEO]

2012-Honda-CR-V-Facelift-T The facelifted 2012 Honda CR-V is the fourth generation of the emblematic model, which has appeared for the first time in 1995. The facelift include modifications on every level of this Honda model.

First of all, the length and height of the car have been reduced by 5mm and 30mm respectively compared with the current model. However, the interior space of the SUV is not reduced.

The new CR-V has more aggressive and aerodynamic stance with deeper sculpting of the bodylines and a bolder nose section. The front bumper’s smooth, flowing lines are joined by a horizontal three-bar grille and deep-set headlights.

Furthermore, the CR-V’s signature vertical rear brake lights are now more three-dimensional style. In addition, the front LED daytime running lights and rear LED lights are other stylish enhancements.

This means that now the vehicle has sleeker proportions. Moreover, the rear seats fold flat, so the boot capacity of the CR-V has grown by 148 litres to 164 litres. This means that the boot of the CR-V can now accommodate two mountain bikes or four sets of golf clubs.

What about the interior of the Honda? Of course, there were made several important modifications.

For instance, the major controls have been further grouped according to their function. Here is the “driver interface zone” which is positioned behind the steering wheel as well as the “information interface zone” in the centre of the cabin.

The materials used of course are only high quality ones and have been carefully chosen for the European market. A lot of attention has been put on the details as well.

The interior enhancements include impressive range of equipment that has been added. It features 5 inch “intelligent” Multi-Information Display (i-MID), which controls the audio, telephone and navigation systems.

Next, the front seats incorporate the new whiplash mitigation system. These seats work in conjunction with the CRV’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACETM) body structure.

The passengers’ seats on the other hand have transformed hip point. They have now been lowered by 38mm compared to the current model, resulting in a more comfortable seating position and increased headroom.

Here is also included for the first time a new design which allows the introduction of Easy Fold-Down 60/40 Split Rear Seats. They now can be folded flat in one movement. Hence, the CR-V can be transformed from a five-seater passenger car into a versatile load-lugger.

More importantly, the aerodynamics is another key area of the new CR-V design. The drag coefficient has been reduced by 6.5% compared with the current model and now benefits from performance, fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.

httpv://youtu.be/lB_sfD3fj5c

Under the bonnet can be seen either a 2.0-litre i-VTEC petrol engine or a 2.2-litre i-DTEC diesel engine, both fitted as a standard with a six-speed manual gearbox.

The power and torque outputs of the i-DTEC engine remain at 150 hp (110 kW) and 350Nm (258 lb-ft) respectively. However, the CO2 emissions fall from 171g/km to 149g/km for the manual version and from 195g/km to 174g/km for models equipped with the five-speed automatic transmission.

On the other hand, the power output of the 2.0-litre i-VTEC engine has risen from 150 hp to 155 hp (114 kW), while the torque has been increased to 192Nm (142 lb-ft). Although there has been increase of the performance, the CO2 emissions have fallen here as well from 192g/km to 173g/km for the manual version, and from 195g/km to 175g/km for the automatic one.

At last, the new CR-V now includes upgrades to the car’s suspension, steering and four-wheel drive system. Here the next generation Motion Adaptive electric power steering system now combines maneuverability with increased feedback and response at higher velocity.

In addition, this sophisticated system includes Advanced Vehicle Stability Assist system, which detects instability in slippery road conditions and automatically initiates steering inputs that prompt the driver to steer in the correct direction.

A wide range of electronic systems are also included: Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control, Honda’s Advanced Driver Assist System, Lane Keeping Assist System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Mitigation Braking System, and Emergency Stop System.

In short, the new improved model of 2012 Honda CR-V is now more confident, efficient and functional and successfully builds on the fame of its predecessors.

httpv://youtu.be/7g_BbfOPFI8

Source: Honda

July 26, 2012

2013 Kia Carens Teaser

2013 Kia Carens is set to debut at the 2012 Paris Motor Show which will take place on 27th of September. Just two months ahead of its world premiere, Kia has unleashed two teaser images of the new model.

What we can conclude from them is that the new MPV is now sleeker and lower and promises style and spaciousness. It has a completely fresh and cab-forward design.

Furthermore, there is also the impression of lower roofline, longer wheelbase, larger wheels and chrome beltline accent. All this points only to the fact, that the new Carens has been conceived around the theme ‘dynamic space’.

In addition to that the new Kia model will combine striking looks with spacious functionality and an emotional appeal.

Source: Kia

July 26, 2012

2013 Ford NASCAR Fusion with the CFD as a key tool in development [VIDEO]

2013 Ford NASCAR Fusion was enhanced thanks to the CFD. And if you wonder what this abbreviation means – it stands for Computational Fluid Dynamics. In fact, this was the key tool of the development of the new NASCAR Fusion.

To go further into details, the Computational Fluid Dynamics is an engineering tool used by many industries in the world. With it they look at the aerodynamics of the vehicle on the computer, in order to make better, more efficient cars.

The brand new racing car was created in relatively short time – only for 18 months. This was the reason, a method such as CDF to become an integral part to the process. Furthermore, nowadays the engineers are not allowed to test the cars any track race, hence computer-aided and engineering tools like this are becoming more and more valuable.

2013 Ford NASCAR Fusion

Another advantage, next to being able to make a series of changes in a short period of time, is the ability of CDF to show the aerodynamic strengths and weaknesses of the vehicle from a variety of perspectives.

With this technology, the engineers can see the flow of air over the car, as well as the pressures on the surfaces. Here’s a video where professionals from Ford discuss the process of utilization of this technology.

Source: Ford

July 26, 2012

Gunther Holtorf’s 23-year road trip in Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen

Mercedes-Benz--G-Wagen-T Gunther Holtorf has unique destiny. Since 1989 he has been traveling the world and has visited many place, explored variety of cultures and had experiences which many of us can’t even imagine. This is a story which I find insightful an inspiring and it is definitely worth viewing it.

What makes Gunther’s around-the-world traveling so unique is that he has done this with unfailing “friend” Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen. In fact, in the short film below he reveals that the “Otto” (as he calls the car) never had a serious breakdown and the engine always started!

The Mercedes-Benz called "Otto"

The story began back in 1989, when the Berlin Wall fell. This was the time when Gunther Holtorf and his wife Christine decided to go on an 18-month tour of Africa in their Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen.

Twenty-three years later and more than 800,000km (500,000 miles) driven, Gunther is continuing visiting places. The German former airline executive has travelled the equivalent of 20 times around the planet in this Mercedes. Recently in Vietnam, the photographer David Lemke joined Gunther on one section of his epic journey.

Video Source: Vimeo

Source: BBC

July 25, 2012

Project Burberry Range by Carlex Design

Project “Burberry Range” by Carlex Design is obviously done for the ladies, because its main source of inspiration was the typical Burberry tartan and the special way of connecting structures, which can be seen on luxury Burberry Handbags.

For the Range Rover’s upholstery is used unique way of stitching. What does this mean? Carlex Design is going to densely backstitched horizontally the tartan.

Furthermore, the patterns on headrest are obtained by white embroideries on leather, which have been designed especially for this interior. Extensive headliner pattern made of alcantara are accomplished by the method of serigraphy.

All stitching patterns on the seats are made through sophisticated connection of leathers. Moreover, decorative trims are varnished in the color of deep piano black and juicy cherry with a touch of white sand.

Stunning design, isn’t it?

Carlex Design Range Rover Burberry Interior

Source: Carlex Design

July 25, 2012

ADV.1 Wheels Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series

ADV1-Wheels-Mercedes-Benz-SL65-AMG-Black-Series-T The next exciting project for today from ADV.1 Wheels is the ADV.1 Wheels Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series.

First of all we have to reveal that the SL65BS is a rare car to find. Furthermore, finding this Mercedes-Benz in matte teal color is nearly impossible.

This vehicle is in fact Mercedes’ most powerful production car ever. It comes equipped with the double-turbocharged 6.0-liter V12 engine under the hood, pumping out 661 hp (486 kW) and 738 lb-ft (1000 Nm) torque. The car comes with electronically limited top speed of 320km/h

ADV.1 Wheels Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series

What makes it one-of-a-kind however, is the set of ADV5.0 Track Spec’s. Furthermore the flared Mercedes wheel arches hide a 20″ staggered set of ADV.1 wheels, 9.5″ in the front and a massive 12″ footprint in the rear. A simple gloss black lip, spoke, and inner were added to contrast off the fantastic paint job.

Source: ADV.1 Wheels

July 25, 2012

Author: Lidia Todorova