Author: Lidia Todorova

  • 2012 Toyota LandCruiser 200 with new 4.6 liter V8 engine

    2012-Toyota-LandCruiser-200-V8-THUMBToyota’s iconic vehicle LandCruiser is now equipped with the more powerful and more efficient 4.6 litre V8 petrol engine, which now features variable valve timing on both the inlet and exhaust ports, lifting power and torque, while at the same time enhancing fuel economy and lowering emissions. In addition, the new 2012 Toyota LandCruiser 200 family also gets updated equipment for its looks, performance and customer appeal. For instance, there is an off-road technology which now is improved with new multi-terrain anti-skid braking system that detects and automatically adapts to off-road conditions. It works in combination with the standard vehicle stability control and active traction control. Furthermore, the LandCruiser VX and Sahara, will receive Multi-Terrain Select. The system regulates wheel-spin in tough off-road conditions. Only in the Sahara model is featured the Multi-Terrain Monitor, using four wide-angle cameras for checking “blind” spots. Additional LandCruiser Sahara features are: air-conditioned front seats, upgraded navigation system, power-operated tailgate, and three-position memory for the power driver’s seat, steering wheel and exterior mirrors. All models will include refreshed exterior and interior.

    2012 Toyota LandCruiser 200 with new 4.6 liter V8 engine
    2012 Toyota LandCruiser 200 with new 4.6 liter V8 engine

    Another highlight is that the LandCruiser’s new V8 petrol engine is fitted with an acoustic control induction system. It serves in terms of improving performance at high engine speeds. Interestingly, is that the engine capacity is reduced by 56cm3 to 4608cm3, but yet the power is increases by 12.9 per cent to 228kW (310 hp) at 5500rpm and torque by 7.1 per cent to 439Nm (324 lb-ft) at 3500rpm. Moreover, the new single-pump air injection system speeds the warming of the catalysts by inducting air through the exhaust ports. More importantly here probably is that the fuel economy is significantly reduced to 13.6 litres/100km, while the CO2 emissions are down to 313 grams/km.

    In details, the new engine has a six-speed automatic transmission. It has artificial intelligence control, which allows its computers to select the appropriate gear ratio by estimating road conditions. LandCruiser 200 GXL, VX and Sahara customers have the option to choose between the new petrol engine and Toyota’s 195kW (265 hp) 650Nm (480 lb-ft) 4.5-litre V8 twin-turbo common-rail diesel engine. In addition, the GX version is offered with the diesel engine. All variants have 138-litre fuel-tank capacity with 93-litre main and 45-litre sub tanks. The range now is offered in nine exterior colours and three interior trim colours.

    2012 Toyota LandCruiser 200 V8
    2012 Toyota LandCruiser 200 V8

    Source: Toyota

  • 2012 Volkswagen Beetle Spring Drive

    2012-Volkswagen-Beetle-Spring-Drive-THUMB2012 Volkswagen Beetle Spring Drive will feature new entry-level engines, which will deliver even more driving fun with in combination with low fuel consumption. The new version is released of course – just in time for the spring, and will include expanded range of engines: 105 PS (77 kW) diesel engine (TDI) and a 160 PS (118 kW) (TSI) petrol engine. As the brand promises, the new engines are fuel efficient and agile downsized with small displacement, direct injection and charging. All this results in the fact that the 1.6 TDI Beetle needs only 4.5 l/100 km (equivalent to 119 g/km CO2) and to achieve the highest speed of 180 km/h. Fully fuelled (55 liters), the Beetle thus has a theoretical driving range of 1,222 km. On the other hand, with the 1.2 TSI (77 kW / 105 PS), petrol direct-injection engine has a performance data: 5.9 l/100 km or 137 g/km CO2. All this matched to 180 km/h top speed. However, the top engine is currently a 2.0-litre TSI with 147 kW / 200 PS, which has a fuel consumption of 7.7 l/100 km (equivalent to 179 g/km CO2). It accelerates the Beetle to 223 km/h. The vehicle of course, still delivers its well-known suitability for day-to-day use as a full-fledged 4-seater. In addition, to this we have to highlight its high quality and safety standards with a solid basic equipment, which are also included on board, and in fact were always inherent features of the Beetle.

    The price of 2012 Volkswagen Beetle Spring Drive 1.2 TSI with 105 PS starts at 16 950 euros.

    2012 Volkswagen Beetle Spring Drive
    2012 Volkswagen Beetle Spring Drive

    Source: Volkswagen

  • 2012 Audi A3

    The five-door 2012 Audi A3 includes a design which expresses sporty elegance. The xenon plus headlights are combined with LED daytime running lights. The single-frame grille element and the trims on the B-posts are painted in high-gloss black and the lower air inlets have chrome struts. The same sporty elegance can be seen as well in the interior. The instruments are coloured gray, and a flat-bottomed, leather sport steering wheel is available to, however as an option. In addition, the air vents are framed in black rings while the navigation system sports a high-gloss bezel. The vehicle is equipped with a manual transmission. In addition, a gear-change indicator in the driver information system complements the operating concept. The front-wheel drive A3 Sportback offers impressive luggage capacity that varies between 370 and 1,100 liters (13.07 and 38.85 cu ft).

    More importantly, the engine lineup features range of eight powerplants – four gasoline and four diesel units. Of course, all are turbocharged four-cylinder units with direct injection and badged as TFSI and TDI. Audi has included the start-stop system as well; it works together with both the manual and the S tronic automatic transmissions. First, the entry-level gasoline engine is the 1.2 TFSI uses a substitution of turbocharging for displacement. The four-cylinder unit develops 77 kW (105 hp) and a hefty 175 Nm of torque (129.07 lb-ft) from its small displacement of 1,197 cc. However, when combined with the S tronic gives just 5.3 liters of fuel per 100 km (44.38 US mpg). Next, the most powerful gasoline engine is the 2.0 TFSI with whole 147 kW (200 hp). Furthermore, the diesel range extends from the 1.6 TDI which develops 66 kW (90 hp) to the 2.0 TDI with an output of 125 kW (170 hp). If you wonder which is the most efficient engine in the range, well it is the 1.6-liter TDI which delivers the 77 kW (105 hp). The most fuel-efficient version of the A3 Sportback consumes on average just 3.9 liters of fuel per 100 km (60.31 US mpg).

    2012 Audi A3 2.0 TFSI S line Front Angle


    Engine lineup: 1.2 TFSI with 77 kW (105 hp); 1.4 TFSI with 92 kW (125 hp); 1.8 TFSI and 1.8 TFSI quattro with 118 kW (160 hp); 2.0 TFSI and 2.0 TFSI quattro with 147 kW (200 hp); 1.6 TDI with 66 kW (90 hp); 1.6 TDI with 77 kW (105 hp); 2.0 TDI and 2.0 TDI quattro with 103 kW (140 hp); 2.0 TDI and 2.0 TDI quattro with 125 kW (170 hp).

    The diversity can also be found in the transmission lineup. Most engine versions in the A3 model series are paired with a six-speed manual transmission. Nonetheless, Audi offers many of the engines with the S tronic. In addition, depending on engine version, the dual-clutch transmission has six or seven speeds. At last, the seven-speed version uses dry clutches.

    The chassis of the new 2012 Audi A3 expresses the sporty character of the car and yet supreme safety and a high level of comfort. It includes four-link rear suspension, which handles longitudinal and transverse forces independently. In front-wheel drive models, there is featured electronic stabilization program (ESP), which integrates an electronic differential lock. A conventional sport suspension and the taut S line sport suspension from quattro GmbH are also available.

    An extensive range of high-end options include the adaptive light dynamic cornering light system for the xenon plus headlights, the high-beam assistant and the navigation system plus with MMI operating logic. In addition, there is also featured the park assist system.

    As a student it can be difficult to keep your car on the road, especially with rising costs everywhere. Endsleigh offer university student car insurance that allows you to build a no claims discount in just three months!

    2012 Audi A3 TDI Clean Diesel  Front Angle

    Source: Audi

  • 2012 Geneva Motor Show: Prindiville Range Rover Evoque Convertible concept

    Prindiville-Range-Rover-Evoque-THUMBPrindiville Range Rover Evoque Convertible concept was presented at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. This bold concept builds on the global success of the Evoque and continues Land Rover’s tradition of creating significant vehicles, which deliver luxury and style. In details, the soft-top convertible concept is based on the Range Rover Evoque Coupe. It includes entirely retractable premium roof system with a Roll Over Protection System [ROPS]. Furthermore, the concept combines capability and versatility with a drop down tailgate and a comfortable four seat package. The vehicleretaimns key characteristics from the Land Rover design philosophy, including a command driving position and all-terrain capability. Evoque’s rising waist line and specific shape has been retained. Hence, the new convertible body style has been achieved with minimal changes to weight and torsional rigidity. The hood is housed in a neat tapered finisher with the roof mechanism stowed discretely below the belt-line. Although Range Rover Evoque Convertible Concept was already revealed in Geneva 2012 it is only a design and engineering study. Unfortunately, there is no production plans confirmed.

    Prindiville Range Rover Evoque Convertible Concept
    Prindiville Range Rover Evoque Convertible Concept

    Source: Prindiville Design

  • 2012 Geneva Motor Show: Carlsson Mercedes-Benz CK63 RS

    2012-Mercedes-Benz-Carlsson-CK63-RS-THUMB2012 Carlsson Mercedes-Benz CK63 RS is based on the Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG and carries the powerful V8-Biturbo with added performance package by Carlsson Autotechnik. First, the AMG eight-cylinder engine with a cylinder capacity of 5.461 cm already produces 557 hp (410 kW) at 5,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 800 Nm (588 lb-ft) at 2,000 rpm. However, Carlsson engineers additionally improved the engine and increasedits power to the significant 652 hp (480 kW) with a maximum trque of 1000 Nm of 2,000 – 4,500 rpm, the maximum torque lies at 1,000 Nm (735 lb-ft). This power increase allows the Carlsson CK63 RS to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in only 4.1 seconds. In addtion, a tailor-made, multi-flow, complete stainless steel exhaust system with downpipes, metal catalysts and front and rear silencers supports the power enhancement and is also fitted with an exhaust damper system.

    2012 Mercedes-Benz Carlsson CK63 RS
    2012 Mercedes-Benz Carlsson CK63 RS

    Furthermore, Carlsson has modified the vehicle at the front axle thus making it more agile. The AMG Ride Control sports suspension springs at the front axle have been replaced with Carlsson springs with more progressive spring characteristics. They lower the CLS by 30 millimeters. In addition 1/10-type Carlsson wheels in a stylish star design with single and double spokes embellish the wheel housing of the Carlsson sports sedan. They are with 9 x 20” rims at the front and 10.5 x 20” at the drive axle. More aerodynamic components were featured in the tuning: front spoiler and the RS front spoiler lip, black stainless steel grille inserts, rear spoiler, together with the rear apron insert, integrated Carlsson RS rear diffuser made from real carbon.

    The interior of this Carlsson vehicle was made by master-saddlers applying thier traditional hand-craftsmanship. Of course, they have used the finest materials: leather, the finest Alcantara, carbon fiber, natural woods and other exclusive natural materials. A combination of brown Alcantara and mocha-brown Carlsson NAPPA EXCLUSIVE leather wrappes the interior. Moreover, thee interior modification for the Carlsson CK63 RS is eventually finished with details, such as Carlsson foot mats, door sill panels with blue, illuminated Carlsson lettering and door-locking pins made from polished aluminum.

    2012 Carlsson Mercedes-Benz CK63 RS has jus been presented in 2012 Geneva Motor Show.

    Source: Carlsson

  • 2012 Honda Civic Natural Gas

    2012_Civic_Natural_Gas_THUMBHonda Civic Natural Gas is the latest production project of the brand, which has been designed especially to raise the ecological awareness around the globe. Honda made a further step in this direction, by presenting the keys of a 2012 Honda Civic Natural Gas to Anaheim Ducks NHL star George Parros. By his positive influence and personal example, the manufacture is confident that Parros will create awareness of the vehicle amongst his Ducks team-mates and fans.

    Furthermore, the car has already been awarded a green car of the 2012 year. The 2012 Honda Civic Natural Gas is the only OEM-built, CNG-powered passenger car for sale in the United States. Examples of it are available at 197 dealers around the country. In details, the vehicle is powered by the cleanest internal-combustion engine, which is in addition certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (Tier-II, Bin-2 and ILEV certification). It also qualifies for a state-issued decal allowing single-occupant access to High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) “carpool” lanes. Moreover, the all-new 2012 model includes enhanced exterior and interior styling, improved fuel economy and a refueling price typically 30 percent less than gasoline! Significant features aren’t they!

    2012 Honda Civic Natural Gas
    2012 Honda Civic Natural Gas
    2012 Honda Civic Natural Gas
    2012 Honda Civic Natural Gas

    Source: Honda

  • 2012 Dodge Journey SXT Four-Cylinder Model

    2012-Dodge-Journey-THUMBThe award-winning Dodge Journey SXT crossover will feature 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine as a standard. The four-cylinder Journey models deliver 173 hp (127 kW) and achieve 26 mpg on the highway. Furthermore all 2012 Dodge Journey SXT models are equipped with 17-inch aluminum wheels, 4.3-inch Uconnect touch screen, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, push-button start, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, performance fascias with front fog lamps, LED taillamps, premium interior with soft-touch surfaces, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, seven airbags and much more. SXT is also available with the segment-exclusive 8.4-inch Uconnect Touch Screen, in-seat storage and integrated booster seats. The customers of the car can also chose as an option the available award-winning Pentastar V-6 engine, which delivers a not only power but also fuel economy – 283 hp (208 kW) and 25 mpg on the highway. Additionally, the V-6 models are also available with all-wheel-drive system.

    2012 Dodge Journey SXT Four-Cylinder Model
    2012 Dodge Journey SXT Four-Cylinder Model

    Another highlight is that Dodge is offering the Flexible Seating Group on all 2012 Dodge Journey models. The package offers easy entry second-row 60/40 Tilt ‘n Slide seat, three-zone heating and air conditioning and third-row 50/50 folding and reclining seat. The Journey also includes premium soft-touch materials on the inside, the exclusive second-row in-floor storage bins and hidden storage within the front passenger seat. With more than 40 safety and security features, the 2012 Dodge Journey SXT has been Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick for four consecutive years. At last to be mentioned is that the Journey also features high-tech connectivity and customization with the Uconnect® Touch 8.4 radio with an 8.4-inch touchscreen.
    The 2012 Dodge Journey SXT with the four-cylinder engine will be available at a starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $22 995.

    Source: Dodge

  • 2012 Geneva Motor Show: EDAG Light Car – Sharing concept car

    2012-EDAG-Light-Car---Sharing-concept-car-THUMB2012 EDAG Light Car – Sharing concept car is thefirst vehicle to have been specifically designed to meet the needs of the growing car sharing sector. It is designed to include the maximum possible space inside, and also the exterior has resilient surfaces. It is electrically driven and in resonance with Light Car philosophy. In particular, the light is used as a means of communication to indicate the leasing status of the vehicle.

     

    For leasing purposes a car should be practical, robust and self-explanatory. Hence the exterior is of height of 1.90 meters, which makes it easy for the passengers to get in and out. In addition there is very convenient parking system, which is sensitive to spots around the bumper. As the name shows, the light plays crucial role and serves as a communication instrument. When the car is being charged or reserved, or available for hire, the LEDs integrated in the gel pads and “PLEXIGLAS ® LEDs” manufactured by Evonik Industries AG use three different colors to give a highly visible indication of the status. In addition, there is a laser, which when parking the car or opening the doors, projects a safety zone onto the asphalt, ensuring that passengers can get in and out in safety.

    2012 EDAG Light Car - Sharing concept
    2012 EDAG Light Car – Sharing concept

    Besides the two side doors with simple sliding windows, the “concept vehicle also has twin rear doors. The coupe features six folding seats arranged in two rows of three. A special emphasis has been put on an intuitive operating concept: aside from the accelerator, brake and steering wheel, the only other control is a lever to work the indicators. This means that there is just one display element, which only gives the important data (speed, charge, range, navigation).
    Furthermore EDAG Group is also exhibiting a networked mobility concept for booking the future share car fleet. In particular, the operators of future car will use GPS to locate their vehicles and communicate their locations to potential customers. Hence, it will be possible to inform the customer which cars are available, and then guide him to the nearest one by means of the navigation system in his smartphone. Of course, the booking will be made via Internet, and the customer can then access the vehicle through electronic “Bluetooth key”.

    In addition, the concept car features the so called “intelligent charger”: besides performing the actual charge process, the “intelligent charger” also sends vehicle information via the power supply system and decides itself when is the perfect time for charging. It does this by taking into account the availability of renewable energies and mobility behavior. More importantly, the operator receives all important information on the status of the vehicle online. The communication between car and user is even further enhanced with new services such as automated legitimation and the selection of individual tariffs or prices per minute. This interconnection brings about considerable added value for the entire mobility system. What it does in details, is that it gives the energy provider the chance to make use of energy storage and in this way reduce load fluctuations in the grid due to electric cars being connected. On the other hand it ensures that there is sufficient resource-saving energy to charge the share vehicles whenever necessary.

     

    Source: Edag

  • 2012 Geneva Motor Show: Lamborghini Aventador J

    Lamborghini-Aventador-J-THUMBAutomobili Lamborghini has just unveiled the long awaited Lamborghini Avendator J, which is on of the most uncompromising open super sports car. The Aventador J offers its pilot and co pilot an indescribable experience of power and dynamics. At the same time, the 515 kW / 700 hp two-seater features first class technology, combining innovative solutions and new materials including carbon fiber. Lamborghini Aventador J is an open automobile – the exterior and interior meld into each other. The top speed it achieves is higher than 300 km/h.

    The technical basis for the Aventador J is the Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 twelve-cylinder model. Its structure is based on an innovative monocoque made from carbon fiber reinforced polymers which combine systematic lightweight design. Furthermore, the new twelve-cylinder comes with a displacement of 6.5 liters and 515 kW / 700 hp combines the best in high-revving thrills with mighty pulling power. And with a dry weight of 1575 kilograms, the series production Aventador LP 700-4 is extremely light for its performance class. All this, thank to the carbon fiber technology.

    Lamborghini Aventador J revealed at 2012 Geneva Motor Show
    Lamborghini Aventador J revealed at 2012 Geneva Motor Show

    As you can see, the vehicle is with clear, precise surfaces, which at some parts become sharp. They emphasize the power and the enormous presence of the super sports cars. The definging principle in the design of the exterior was “form follows function”. The result is the clearly defined Aventador J, which carries explosive dynamics, extreme driving fun, and of course delivers one of a kind experience. In addition, every part of the outer chassis was redesigned for the Aventador J. The car’s dimensions for example are extreme: the overall length is 4890 mm, the overall width is 2030 mm, while the height is 1110 mm. Furthermore, the black carbon fiber parts are visible throughout the car: the wide sill elements and the rear diffuser form contrast to the rich red body paintwork. The especially developed red color was created particularly for this car. As you can see it immediately catches the attention: this is a highly intensive red with a slight chrome effect. Next, the wheels – also developed specifically for this car, are with 20-inch rims at the front and 21-inch at the rear. In addition, five-spoke aluminum wheels have a central lock system and an additional carbon fiber insert which functions like a small fan for optimum brake ventilation.

    The Lamborghini Aventador J’s exterior and interior forms flow effortlessly into each other. The exterior “flows” through the interior with the red stripe, which runs from the front hood, between the two wind deflectors, over the dashboard, down the console to the center tunnel and back up between the seat backs, and eventually heading for the engine cover panel. This band of color is used in terms to connect the front and the rear of the car. In addition, it also creates a visual separation between the driver and passenger.

    Source: Lamborghini

  • Morgan Plus E Concept to be revealed in Geneva

    Morgan-Plus-E-Concept-THUMBMorgan has designed an electric sports car with a five-speed manual gearbox. The company has worked in collaboration with technology specialists from Zytek and Radshape. The new roadster will be showcased as concept in Geneva and will test the market reaction.

    Morgan Plus E Concept combines Morgan’s traditional look with high-technology construction and a powertrain that offers substantial torque instantly at any speed. The manual gearbox, in addition, increases both touring range and driver involvement. The concept vehicle is based on a tailored version of Morgan’s lightweight aluminium platform chassis. Then it has been clothed in the revised „traditional‟ body from the new BMW V8-powered Plus 8. Power is delivered by a new derivative of Zytek’s 70kW (94bhp) 300Nm electric engine. In details, this Zytek unit is mounted in the transmission tunnel and drives the rear wheels through a conventional five-speed manual gearbox. Moreover, the clutch is retained, but because the motor provides torque from zero speed. Hence, it is the drivers’ choice whether to leave it engaged when coming to rest and pulling away. The multi-speed transmission allows the motor to spend more time operating in its sweet spot, where it uses energy more efficiently. In addition, it also allowed the engineers to provide lower gearing for rapid acceleration.

    Morgan Plus E Concept
    Morgan Plus E Concept

    The work of collaboration is set to createvtwo engineering concept vehicles. The first is going to be quipped with the five-speed manual box and Li-ion batteries. It will be used for preliminary engineering assessment. On the other hand, the second will be closer to potential production specification, with alternative battery technologies and possibly a sequential gearbox. Of course, both models will carry the significant design of Morgan and will bring the traditional elegance to life. In addition, exquisite craftsmanship with the latest light-weight construction techniques and a choice of high-efficiency engines that offer everything from economical daily motoring to outstanding super car performance will be the highlight of the vehicle. The high-precision sheet metal components and assemblies will be delivered by Radshape. The company combines traditional craftsmanship with substantial investments in the latest production technologies.

    Source: Zytek

  • 2012 Wiesmann Roadster MF3 “Scuba Mobil”

    Wiesmann-Roadster-MF3-Scuba-Mobil-THUMBWiesmann and Michelin have just presented in Geneva a project which is a result of their work of collaboration: the unique 2012 Wiesmann Roadster MF3 “Scuba Mobil”, which carries the project name “Pure Driving Adventure”. This individualization of the unique Wiesmann sportscar adds more to the driving pleasure. In other words, no other sports car can offer the driver such skilled precision work, breathtaking driving experience, and classic design. The project “Pure driving Adventure” is one special Wiesmann Roadster MF3 from the “final edition” equipped with an exclusive dream combination of extras that cannot be bought. These additional extras will be provided by the sports car manufacturer from Dülmen (Germany) in conjunction with tyre manufacturer Michelin. And if you happen to be in Geneva between 8th and 18th of March, you can see the “Pure Driving Adventure” project yourself. The buyer of this sports car will receive a year’s special admission to a total of more than 50 top-class events and exquisite experiences with both of the partners. What is necessary however is that the driver must travel to these events in their sports car. And the Roadster MF3 will be their ticket alone to the most thrilling motorsport events. Only one example of this package of exclusive experiences will be available at the Geneva Motor Show, and all of the extras will be included with the purchase of this automobile. More importantly, this project will not cost any more than any other car in the series.

    2012 Wiesmann Roadster MF3 "Scuba Mobil"
    2012 Wiesmann Roadster MF3 "Scuba Mobil"
    2012 Wiesmann Roadster MF3 "Scuba Mobil"
    2012 Wiesmann Roadster MF3 "Scuba Mobil"

    The 2012 Wiesmann Roadster MF3 “Scuba Mobil” will offer its customer the unique opportunity to attend the history and future of sports cars at Goodwood, to follow the endurance battles at the 24h in Le Mans from the pit lane, or to visit one of the spectacular rally events that take place in the World Rally Championship. Michelin VIP tickets will be ready and waiting for the driver and their companion and will be offered a behind the scenes deep dive as an invited guest of honor.

    The work of collaboration between Wiesmann and Michelin lead to the birth of many projects, including this one. The 2012 Wiesmann Roadster MF3 “Scuba Mobil” sports vehicle is a model of the “final edition by SIEGER”, and has been given a special makeover by Wiesmann. It includes the latest high-revving inline 6-cylinder engine wrapped in an exquisite blue and yellow exterior. The performance and driving characteristics of the car reach the highest levels. In addition, the combination of a lightweight body and the immense performance capability of the rev-happy straight-6 engine (252 kW/343 hp) provide the Roadster with exceptional driving dynamics and impressive propulsion.

    2012 Wiesmann Roadster MF3 "Scuba Mobil"
    2012 Wiesmann Roadster MF3 "Scuba Mobil"
    2012 Wiesmann Roadster MF3 "Scuba Mobil"
    2012 Wiesmann Roadster MF3 "Scuba Mobil"

    Source: Wiesmann

  • 2012 Hyundai i-oniq concept unveiled in Geneva

    Hyundai finally unveiled its latest European concept car, which carries the name i-oniq. The debut took place at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, and included a showcase of new technology and design which present an impression of the company’s future thinking. The concept vehicle is 4,4 meters long and is an electric sports hatchback with a range-extending petrol engine. The design of the car is an evolution of the company’s fluidic sculpture form language. The car has dynamic proportions which create aesthetic and functional body shape. In addition the design conveys premium and athletic qualities evident in both the exterior and interior of the car. Furthermore, unique design elements were included in the car, for instance the “penthouse roof” and LED headlights, which emphasize the advanced technology encased within i-oniq. What is so special about the roof is that it is significant solution which delivers great space for rear passengers and contributes to the overall dynamic appearance. Other fascinating features of the 2012 Hyundai i-oniq are the doors. They open up to the side, thank to weight-optimization. In addition the featured seat kinematics make entering the car’s front and rear seats a simple maneuver. Moreover, the headlights contained in uniquely-shaped polished aluminium frame which forms unique signature light element.

    2012 Hyundai i-oniq concept
    2012 Hyundai i-oniq concept

    And what about the interior of the concept car: the cabin layout is driver-oriented, with the dashboard and centre-console geometry based around the driver. In addition, the user-interface components reflect contemporary and future consumer electronics technology. What we can find here is the movement control mounted on the steering wheel, floating instrument cluster with multi-layered projection, and a large background display for navigation, entertainment and other information. At the rear of the cabin has been designed unique lounge area, which ensures maximum occupant comfort. It creates positive contrast to the sports-orientated front area. Of course, the comfort in the car is additionally complemented through the use of luxurious interior materials, as well as futuristic interface components.

    To go even further into details, the 2012 Hyundai i-oniq concept vehicle is powered by an innovative 1,0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine, which delivers a maximum of 45 kW (61 hp). This unit is mated to an 80 kW (109 hp) lithium-ion electric motor which is powered by a 55 kW generator, via a single ratio gearbox. In electric-only mode, the concept can travel 120 km (74 miles) and up to 700 km (435 miles) with the assistance on the petrol engine, emitting only 45 g/km of CO2emissions! Hyundai i-oniq concept can reach a top speed of 145 km/h.

    Specifications

    Engine 1,0-litre, 3-cylinder gasoline engine (45 kW)
    Motor 80 kW
    Power output 80 kW (109 ps)
    Wheelbase 2.650 mm
    Overall length 4.432 mm
    Overall width 1.916 mm
    Overall height 1.400 mm
    Tires Dunlop
    CO2 45 g/km
    Steering wheel Touch sensor with motion-control system

    Source: Hyundai