Lidia Todorova – Page 315 – Automobiles Review

Nakai-San from Rauh Welt Begriff: thoughts on the creative process [VIDEO]

If you hear for the first time the name Nikai-San or are unfamiliar with Rauh Welt Begriff (RWB), then it is time to be introduced with a bit more information about this amazing Japan-based Porsche tuner.

Basically RWB has combined Japanese and Euro tuning elements, with the only aim – to create uniqueness. In particular, Nikai-San puts this philosophy into practice and creates the distinct RWB style for Porsche chassis. And the Porsches created are one-of-a-kind and belong to the sole customer.Back in the days, RWB has started off as a small countryside body-shop in Chiba-Ken.

Nevertheless RAUH-Welt 911’s can now be commonly seen on both the streets and racing circuits of Japan.This wonderful interview made by eGarage.com, delivers more information about the tuning process, what is the main source of inspiration, and more importantly, Nikai-San speaks about it himself!

httpv://vimeo.com/37040456

June 12, 2012

Chevrolet Camaro Safety Car Becomes WTCC Star [VIDEO]

Chevrolet was a main star in the past two years in the FIA WTCC seasons. Chevrolet’s emblematic vehicle was always “one wheel ahead” of its peers and with the Cruze ended up number one plus an additional place on the podium in 2010 and 2011.

Now in the year of 2012, Chevrolet is proud to present the another race car for the World Touring Car Championship. The company expect that it will leave its competitors far behind. This is namely the official Chevrolet Camaro Safety Car.

The video below chows how the coolest pace car in the WTCC history is portrayed. In there you will also see its predecessors and the most emotional scenes from the 46-year Camaro history.

In fact the first ever Camaro was built in 1966, and ever since then it has only showed its huge motor sports potential. It has proven this with the number of trophies it has won during the years.

Although as the WTCC safety car the Camaro includes a serial V8 engine, which produces 432 hp (318 kW). With it, it can undoubtedly it outrace the touring cars of the series by about 40 percent.

Behind the wheel of this exciting car will be Bruno Correia. He is an experienced race driver and has driven in more than 350 races. In the five-minute video clip include below, he casts light on the life of a pace car driver. Furthermore he speaks about the accident that had happened in 2009, when the safety car’s crew was acting rather rashly and collided with another race car. The result was serious accident.

Source: Chevrolet

June 12, 2012

Buick Verano comes to Europe under the disguise of 2013 Opel Astra

2013 Opel Astra Sedan is a notchback based on the GM’s Delta II platform. It was designed initially in US and Asia and at first was included in the Buick Excelle GT and then in Buick Verano. Now, the platform is going to be included in the Atra line-up whixh is scheduled to go on sale in Europe later this month.

The new Opel model is going to be offered with literally a wide range of engine choices. In fact, seven powerplants are going to be available at launch. The gas engines included are four and their horsepower range is from 100 to 180 (74 to 132 kW).

On the other hand the three diesel engines will deliver a power range from 95 to 130 hp (70 to 69 kW) and will feature the two ecoFLEX motors with Start/Stop technology. The seventh engine is also a gas one, and namely is the 1.6-liter turbochared, direct-injected SIDI Ecotec.

The Astra line-up consists of the new four-door sedan, the five-door hatchback, the Sports Tourer station wagon and the racy GTC coupe. The new Astra notchback sedan (Length/Width/Height: 4,658/1,814/1,476 mm) has a wheel base of 2,685 mm which means that it provides a generous interior space.

In addition it has a separate trunk, which offers 460 liters of volume. By folding the 60:40 split rear bench flat the luggage volume can be increased up to a maximum of 1,010 liters.

As you can see the new Astra has a very stylish and sleek silhouette, which is thanks to the well-balanced and harmonious automotive design. In addition, the new Astra includes a large array of technological highlights: Advanced Forward Lighting (AFL+) with bi-xenon headlamps, the adaptive FlexRide chassis system, the highly ergonomic AGR (“Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V”), navigation system Navi 900 top unit, etc.

Source: Opel via Autoblog

June 12, 2012

Volkswagen Polo GTI 6R Synergetic Effects – A Joint Venture Project

Volkswagen Polo GTI 6R Synergetic Effects is very interesting result of the work of collaboration of CFC® in Weilheim with CFC® StylingStation® Neuss, the firms MK-SoundStyle Neuss, AIV in Heilbronn and ASA-Wheels from Kaiserslautern. They all have established a sort of a joint venture which has an effect this one-of-a-kind Polo.

The CFC® StylingStation® Neuss has done all the work concerning the exterior. What it has done basically is to entirely foil the Volkswagen in a princess-style camouflage design. As you can see this camouflage creates a delicate mixture of the two pink tints of different intensity and the two relatively colorless primary hues.

The vehicle how ever is not girlish at all! The Polo 6R comes with screw-threaded AP chassis with improved dynamics and is equipped with the most exquisite combination of wheels and tires: TEC by ASA AS2 Max.-Pink wheel rims in 8×18 inches are equipped with the package of tires by Falken, in the dimensions of 215/35-18.

Volkswagen Polo GTI 6R Synergetic Effects

There are also included some carbon parts for which is responsible blackGold designs. Eventually, the rear bumper makes Polo GTI 6R a true “piece of art”.

The interior of the Polo was made by MK-SoundStyle and AI, which have taken care for the acoustic system. In the Polo is included full audio system Rainbow DL-C6.2 with 20-mm silk tweeters and a neodymium speaker driver.

The Rainbow Intelli Sub 8 AFE, a very flat 200-mm active subwoofer in the body equipped with High Level In and the auto-start function, is also featured. Under the driver’s seat one can find a stable aluminum die-cast body, as well as the woofer with 2 x 2 Ohm dual oscillating coil and a remote control.

Source: Miranda Media

June 12, 2012

SR Project Teflon Don BMW 650i

SR Project Teflon Don BMW 650i is the latest trendy and luxury project from SR Auto Group. It is more than clearly based on the amazing and powerful BMW 650i, which makes this modification a very special one.

650i is equipped with a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine which produces 413PS (304 kW) and 600 Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque. Hence it is very easy for this car to develop 0-100 km/h for just 5.0 seconds. The engine of this outstanding car is mated to six-speed manual transmission, and in addition the model includes Dynamic Damper Control as standard and the Active Roll Stabilization.

SR Auto Group has grasped the great truth that the automotive industry is like fashion. There are always new trends which appear every day and which must be followed. What they’ve done with this BMW is exactly this: they are going after the trend which now is all about chrome!

In fact, chrome has been a part of the automotive industry for many years and was a successful attribute to many emblematic vehicles, adorning their forefront.

You can see the same philosophy applied to this BMW, who has been equipped with strut grille set which adds more luxurious outlook. In addition to this, the chrome can be seen on the set of Vellano VSD wheels in a staggering twenty two inch fitment.

We are definitely looking forward to seeing more projects in chrome!

Source: SR Auto Group

June 11, 2012

2012 Chrysler 300C and 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT with UK debut

2012 Chrysler 300C and 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT are to make their first appearance on the Island. Their United Kingdom debut will take place this week at the Canary Wharf Motorexpo, which is Britain’s largest auto show.

The 300C model will be exhibited in a two trim version. In addition this Chrysler model will be officially launched also this week and it will deliver its customers more space, safety and 236 horsepower (174 kW). Both trim levels: Limited and Executive, utilize the new MultiJet 2 diesel technology which provide effortless power and fuel-saving efficiency. The pricing of the range starts at £35 995.

2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT will also be on display making its first UK appearance as well. In fact, this is the fastest and most powerful Jeep ever built. This Jeep vehicle is powered by an all-new 6.4-litre HEMI V8 engine with Fuel Saver technology that turns off four of the eight cylinders when full power is not required to increase fuel economy and reduce overall emissions.

Its “powerful reputation” is due to the 461 horsepower (340 kW) it delivers, thus making possible for the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0 – 62 mph) to be happen in just five seconds. It has a top speed of 160mph and braking from 62-0mph in 116 feet. The starting price of this Jeep is £58 995.

Source: Chrysler

June 11, 2012

2012 Vauxhall Mokka Tech Line SUV – Specifications and Pricing

2012 Vauxhall Mokka has already got an announced pricing but still will enrich its trim line with the Tech Line trim level.

Mokka Tech Line will deliver its drivers exceptional levels of standard specifications and comfort. The Mokka comes with very generous levels of standard equipment, which include: Navi 600 satellite navigation system, DMB (Digital Media Broadcast) radio, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, 18 inch alloy wheels, cruise control, air conditioning, Descent Control System, aux-in and a multi-function trip computer.

The engine choices included here range in power from 115 hp (85 kW) to 140 hp (103 kW). First, the 1.6-litre petrol produces 115 hp (85 kW) and 155Nm (114 lb-ft) of torque. The second one – the 140 hp (103 kW) 1.4-litre turbo is the Mokka’s most powerful petrol engine and comes with a standard four-wheel drive.

In the Mokka segment are included two diesel models, both of which utilize Vauxhall’s 1.7 CDTi 130 hp (96 kW) engine, with CO2 emissions as low as 124g/km. They are both in front-wheel drive form and their engine can be mated to a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, whereas the all-wheel drive the comes with the six-speed manual only. All manual models have Vauxhall’s fuel-saving Start/Stop system which comes as a standard.

A variety of state-of-the-art driver-assistance systems will be included in the vehicle. For instance such are Vauxhall Front Camera, Lane Departure Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition, Forward Collision Alert, as well as a rear-view camera, park-assist sensors front and rear.

As a standard there are many safety systems include as well: Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control. The latter provides drivers with reassurance, no matter if they’re on or off-road.

Adding further to the safety equipment list are the Advanced Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL+) and High Beam Assist. The latter adjusts the high beams automatically so that oncoming traffic isn’t dazzled.

The exterior design of the car has powerful, muscular and attractive stance. The impression it makes is further enhanced by its higher ground clearance as well as a 1540mm track and 18-inch wheels.

The interior design of the vehicle includes 19 storage locations, 60:40 split rear seats, and an all-up load space of 1,372 litres with the rear seats folded down.

The starting price of 2012 Vauxhall Mokka Tech Line is £15 995.

2012 Vauxhall Mokka Price List

	RRP(£)	VAT (£)	Total (£)	On-the-Road (£)
S
1.6 16v 115PS S/S 5-spd	13,391.67	2,678.33	16,070.00	16,995.00
Exclusiv
1.6 16v 115PS S/S 5-spd	14,225.00	2,845.00	17,070.00	17,995.00
1.4 16v Turbo 140PS S/S 6-spd 4×4	16,091.67	3,218.33	19,310.00	20,200.00
Diesel
1.7 CDTi 130PS S/S 6-spd	15,575.00	3,115.00	18,690.00	19,445.00
1.7 CDTi 130PS 6-spd Auto	16,295.83	3,259.17	19,555.00	20,445.00
1.7 CDTi 130PS S/S 6-spd 4×4	16,762.50	3,352.50	20,115.00	20,990.00
SE
1.6 16v 115PS S/S 5-spd	16,308.33	3,261.67	19,570.00	20,495.00
1.4 16v Turbo 140PS S/S 6-spd 4×4	18,175.00	3,635.00	21,810.00	22,700.00
Diesel
1.7 CDTi 130PS S/S 6-spd	17,658.33	3,531.67	21,190.00	21,945.00
1.7 CDTi 130PS 6-spd Auto	18,379.17	3,675.83	22,055.00	22,945.00
1.7 CDTi 130PS S/S 6-spd 4×4	18,845.83	3,769.17	22,615.00	23,490.00

2012 Vauxhall Mokka Specifications:

	Max Speed	0-60mph
1.6 16v VVT 115PS S/S	106 mph	12.2 secs
1.4 16v Turbo 140PS S/S 4×4	116 mph	9.6 secs
1.7 CDTi 130PS S/S	116 mph	9.6 secs
1.7 CDTi 130PS Auto	114 mph	10.4 secs
1.7 CDTi 130PS S/S 4×4	114 mph	10.2 secs

Provisional Fuel Economy (mpg) & CO2 Emissions (g/km)

	Urban	Extra-Urban	Combined	CO2
1.6 16v VVT 115PS S/S	32.8	53.3	43.5	153
1.4 16v Turbo 140PS S/S 4×4	34.0	55.4	44.8	149
1.7 CDTi 130PS S/S	48.7	68.9	60.1	124
1.7 CDTi 130PS Auto	42.2	60.1	51.4	144
1.7 CDTi 130PS S/S 4×4	45.6	64.2	55.4	134

Engine data

1.6 16v VVT
Max. output PS:	115 @ 6000
Max. torque:	155 Nm @ 4000
Number of cylinders	4
Cubic capacity in cm³	1598
Bore	79mm
Stroke	81.5mm
Compression	10.8:1
1.4 16v Turbo
Max. output PS:	140 @ 4900
Max. torque:	200 Nm @ 4900
Number of cylinders	4
Cubic capacity in cm³	1364
Bore	72.5mm
Stroke	82.6mm
Compression	9.5:1
1.7 CDTi 130PS
Max. output PS:	130 @ 4000
Max. torque:	300 Nm @ 2000-2500
Number of cylinders	4
Cubic capacity in cm³	1686
Bore	79mm
Stroke	86mm
Compression	16.5:1
Fuel tank capacity	54 litres

Source: Vauxhall

June 11, 2012

Icon Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato Volante: a modern interpretation

Icon Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato Volante is a unique vehicle which is going to enrich the portfolio of Icon 4×4. And although the designers from the company mainly focus on recreating cars seen in the past, this project aims something different. Still, the motto of the company stays the same: Classic styling, modern performance, and timeless utility.

The California based Icon 4×4 decides with this latest project to recreate the Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato. The model dates back from the sixties and has special characteristics. The original Zagato was equipped with 3.7-litre aluminum twin-spark straight six-cylinder engine with a powerful 9.7:1 compression ratio.

Hence, it was able to produce 314 hp (234 kW) and had an acceleration time of 6.1 seconds for the 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) sprint. Its top speed number approximately 154 mph (246 km/h).

Unlike the original car however, the California team will build the iconic model in Volante-style. This basically means that it is going to be without a roof. Moreover, Zagato coupe’s original designer Ercole Spada will join the process and will help with the “recreation” of the car.

Of course, all the mechanicals included in the new reimagined DB4 GT Zagato Volante will be modern and will include Aston Martin’s AM V12 engine.

The Reimagined Icon Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato Volante

Source: Icon 4×4 via Autoblog

June 8, 2012

Toyota TS030 Hybrid at the Le Mans

Toyota TS030 Hybrid is the model with which the Japanese automaker will return to the Le Mans 24-hour race the forthcoming week. On the race track we will see not one but two of these competing hybrids.

Toyota aims with these hybrid vehicles to write a new page in the history of the legendary twice-around-the-clock enduro, with the help with their unique technologies. Both TS030 Hybrids display their new Toyota hybrid-blue livery.

Furthermore, both racecars are equipped with the 2012 THS-R (Toyota Hybrid System – Racing) powertrain. The latter is designed to deliver optimum performance and includes theall-new V8 3.4-litre normally-aspirated petrol engine and hybrid system with capacitor storage.

Of course, being a true Toyota’s full hybrid road car, the TS030’s energy is regenerated under braking and the vehicle can work in electric-only mode, thus achieving zero emissions and zero fuel consumption.

This means that it either delivers faster lap times through improving speed on the exit of corners, or one chooses to save fuel by using the internal combustion engine less on corner exit and allowing the hybrid system to compensate.

Few days more to go and we will eventually understand whether the goal of Toyota is achievable, and it is to show that the TS030 Hybrid is the fastest hybrid car on the grid.

Technical Specifications
Designation	TS030 HYBRID
Type	Le Mans Prototype (LMP1)
Bodywork	Carbon fibre composite
Windscreen	Polycarbonate
Gearbox	Transversal with 6 gears sequential
Gearbox casing	Aluminium
Driveshafts	Constant velocity tripod plunge-joint driveshafts
Clutch	Multidisc
Differential	Viscous mechanical locking differential
Suspension	Independent front and rear double wishbone, pushrod-system
Springs	Torsion bars
Anti roll bars	Front and rear
Steering	Hydraulically assisted
Brakes	Dual circuit hydraulic braking system, mono-block light-alloy brake callipers front and rear
Discs	Ventilated front and rear in carbon
Rims	Magnesium forged wheels
Front rims	14.5 x 18 inch
Rear rims	14.5 x 18 inch
Tyres	Michelin radial
Front tyres	36/71-18
Rear tyres	37/71-18
Length	4650mm
Width	2000mm
Height	1030mm
Fuel capacity	73 litres
Powertrain	Toyota Hybrid System – Racing (THS-R)
Engine	90° V8 normally aspirated engine
Fuel	Petrol
Engine Capacity	3.4l
Valves	4
Air restrictors	1 x 43.3mm
Capacitor	Nisshinbo
Front Hybrid Motor	Aisin AW
Rear Hybrid Motor	Denso

Source: Toyota

June 8, 2012

Toyota TMG EV P002 Races to the Clouds

Toyota TMG EV P002 is going to conquer the high altitudes of the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. More importantly, what is so specific about this racecar is that it is an electric one. This simply means that Toyota is applying its environmental visions on the race track as well.

Toyota TMG EV P002 doesn’t have a conventional combustion engine but a fully electric drivetrain. It is able to develop full power even in the thin air of the hill climb’s 19.9 kilometre course. The race starts at an altitude of 2,862 metres and finishes at the 4,300-metre Pikes Peak in Colorado Springs.

Furthermore, this racecar has a twin axial flux motors, which are able to offer a combined output of 350kW (476 lb-ft). The vehicle has a top speed of 240km/h. The advanced electric motors contribute to the power of the car as well. They deliver 900Nm of torque through a single gear transmission.

An interesting fact here is that Toyota engineers have spent the past half year working on the Radical chassis-based EV P002. It is a development of the street-legal TMG EV P001, which as you might remember broke the electric car lap record at the Nürburgring Nordschleife last year.

The Japanese rally champion Fumio Nutahara will drive the EV P002 in the event, also known as the ‘Race to the Clouds’.

Toyota TMG EV P002 technical specifications:

Performance: Top speed 240km/h (Pikes Peak configuration); Maximum torque 900Nm; Maximum power 350kW; Maximum revs 5000rpm

Powertrain: Electric motor 2 axial flux; Inverter 2 x TMG inverters; Gear ratio 2.5; Transmission Single-reduction gearing; Battery Lithium ceramic; Battery capacity 42kWh; Charging technology Off-board DC charging

Dimensions: Length 4.10m; Height 1.04m; Width 1.79m

Source: Toyota

June 8, 2012

2012 Kahn Range Rover Westminster Black Label Edition marks the Diamond Jubilee

2012 Kahn Range Rover Westminster Black Label Edition marks the biggest royal event of the year – namely the HRH Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee. This exceptional tuning is of course made by no other but A. Kahn Design.

A Range Rover model served as a basis for the outstanding work of the tuners. The result is that it is now uniquely styled and refined.

Furthermore, this machine is effectively weighted with a feeling of linearity and purity thanks to the Kahn’s aerodynamic styling package. The latter comprises of of a RS- front and rear bumper replacements, side skirts, LED daytime running lights in the lower bumper section, LED daytime running lights in the lower front bumper section, brake calipers finished in liquid gold, rear tailgate trim in matt black, rear diffuser in matt pearl grey, door handles and side vents in matt black, front bumper lower bar in matt pearl grey, front bumper fog light surrounds in matt black and front grille running bars finished in dark chrome, Kahn vehicle branding, Kahn enamel wing shields and Kahn enamel tailgate logo.

2012 Kahn Range Rover Westminster Black Label Edition

However, the tuning does not end here. It includes also an engine upgrade, powered by Cosworth and complete ‘regal’ color changes, which are also at hand. Moreover, Kahn quad rear silencers in stainless steel were centered on the radical design and interconnected in coalescing design and engineering expression.

How about the interior of this brilliant, almost literally “diamond”, vehicle? Inside, the cabin is complemented with RS- quilted and perforated black leather and contrast stitching interior package, diamond gear selector, Churchill time clock facia insert and Kahn key ring in red enamel.

Of course, the Diamond Jubilee Rover runs on nothing else but Kahn’s wheels, perfectly conveying its essence and identity. Namely, these are the 22” Kahn RS 2-piece wheels in satin black, created using state-of-the art manufacturing and materials technology. They bring more elegance to the outer expression of the car with its simple clean lines, soft organic surfaces and a purposeful mechanical centre.

Source: A. Kahn Design

June 7, 2012

Citroen DS3 Graphic Art and DS3 JUST MAT Special Series

Citroen DS3 Graphic Art is the new bold limited edition special series of the DS3 model by the French Company. It includes stylish roof decal and will bring more style to anyone who wants to be different.

In addition to that Citroen is launching the new DS3 JUST MAT model, which will offer its customers refinement and uniqueness.

Citroen DS3 Graphic Art is the perfect car for the urban environment, equipped with all high-technologies one could think of. This limited series collection by Citroen includes all-new roof decal called “WOW STRIPE”.

The graphic and modern decal has subtle and pearlescent-effect stripes. Citroen is going to offer this state-of-the-art roof in two color variants: Opale White and Onyx Black.

Furthermore, the new limited edition model also gets 17-inch BELLONE wheel rims and chrome finished wing mirror housings and side strips. There is also a good choice of trim exterior colors, which are: Banquise White, Perla Nera Black, Aluminium Grey and Shark Grey.

The interior of the new limited edition model has got also the graphic touch. It was personalized with WOW STRIPE mats similar to the roof decal and a white or black dashboard insert (coordinated with the roof colour), which further enhances the personality of the DS3 GRAPHIC ART.

In terms of technologies included, this special edition comes equipped with the Connecting Box (jack socket, USB port and Bluetooth hands-free kit) and the Select Confort Pack, which features automatic air conditioning, automatic headlamps, automatic front wiper and rear parking assist as standard.

Citroen DS Graphic Art has a starting price of €19 750 and is available with the VTi 120 engine mated to a manual or auto gearbox, or with the e-HDi 90 Airdream powerplant with a manual gearbox or the 6-speed electronic gearbox system.

Citroen DS3 JUST MAT is the next limited edition which now enriches the DS3 model line-up. This model is now available with Hickory Mat body paint, which is complemented by the chrome-finished wing-mirror housings, side strips and rear lamp surrounds.

Undoubtedly it delivers more elegance, which is even further enhanced by an Onyx Black roof and 17-inch BELLONE diamond-effect black wheels.

The interior of the model is also refined and includes gloss dashboard insert, Mistral leather seat upholstery and a leather gearstick handle and handbrake. Moreover, as a standard equipment this DS3 has automatic air conditioning, the MyWay navigation system with the HiFi system, and CITROËN eTouch.

Citroen DS 3 JUST MATT is going to be produced in just 500 units, and is powered by the THP 155 and e-HDi 110 Airdream engines mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. Its initial prices start at €25 150.

Source: Citroen

June 7, 2012

Author: Lidia Todorova