Lidia Todorova – Page 335 – Automobiles Review

2013 Chevrolet Silverado HD Bi-Fuel Pickup

General Motors Corporation and Chevrolet have just unveiled the bi-fuel 2013 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500 HD extended cab pickup trucks. The vehicles include a compressed natural gas (CNG) capable Vortec 6.0L V8 engine that seamlessly transitions between CNG and gasoline fuel systems. When combined, the trucks offer a range of more than 650 miles.

The Silverado and Sierra will be on the marked in standard and long box, with either two- or four-wheel drive. This is a great step undertaken by the brands because in this way they are pffering customers with choices in advanced propulsion technology. Furthermore, CNG is a clean-burning, domestically produced fuel and hence – this is making it very appealing. Moreover, General Motors is the only manufacturer to offer a single-source option for its gaseous fuel vehicles.

In details, the bi-fuel trucks are built with a specially designed engine. Then the fuel system is installed by GM’s Tier One supplier and the completed vehicle is delivered directly to the customer. Furthermore, the vehicles are contributing for the reduction of emissions. The trucks were built in Fort Wayne, Ind., and then sent to the Tier One supplier for installation of the CNG bi-fuel delivery and storage system.

2013 Chevrolet Silverado HD Bi-Fuel Pickup — Chevrolet Silverado HD Bi-Fuel Pickup (2013)

Source: Chevrolet

March 5, 2012

First official video of the new Fiat 500L released

The first official video of the new 2012 Fiat 500L has just been released as a preparation of its world debut – tomorrow at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. In the name of the vehicle L stands for “Large” and of course 500 signifies that the car is part of the Fiat 500 range. The model shows a 500 version which is bigger in size and can accommodate new experiences and needs. For example, the new 2012 Fiat 500L is the first car of the range which is perfect for the family. In addition, the 500L expresses all of the taste of Italian style with a distinctive and catchy look and interprets the totally Fiat capability of conceiving and designing cars which are innovative in substance and in form. What distinguishes this model from the others is that it is “space-efficient”. Furthermore, the vehicle is designed by the Centro Stile Fiat, which drew inspiration from the modern reinterpretation of a car concept designed to achieve better external visibility and a large amount of internal light. This is achieved thank to the glass roof, which is the largest in its category. What is record braking for the segment here is that the model has a colour range of 30 body colours. The spaciousness of the interior offers lots of levels of comfort and it is the best in its category in relation to the external dimensions – 414 cm long, 178 cm wide and 166 cm high. In addition, there is a boot with a capacity of almost 400 litres that is able to hold up to 5 roller suitcases or a full-size push chair.

The new 2012 Fiat 500L will be launched on the European market in the last quarter of 2012. It will include an engine range of two petrol engines (TwinAir and 1.4-litre) and a turbodiesel engine (1.3 MultiJet II). Standing out amongst the petrol engines is the new 0.9-litre TwinAir, which is a new developmental result of the multi-award-winning Fiat two-cylinder engine, which in turn is famous with setting the world fuel consumption and emissions record thanks to its low displacement and inclusion of a high-efficiency turbocharger.

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Source: FIAT

March 5, 2012

2013 Nissan Altima Sedan Teaser [VIDEO]

The Japanese auto-maker Nissan has finally revealed a significant teaser of their new version of the Best-Selling Sedan – 2013 Nissan Altima. The vehicle is going to make its world debut at the 2012 New York Auto Show. The brand however, didn’t release much information about their upcoming product. What it has done until the present moment is to disclose an exclusive video clip of the new car. Therefore the fans of the brand and its customers can have a glimpse on the bold design of the all-new 2013 Nissan Altima sedan. All this is of course in advance of its world premiere at the 2012 New York Auto Show, which is going to take place in April. Additional information unveiled is that the Altima is built at Nissan’s assembly plants in Smyrna, Tenn. and Canton, Miss. On the other hand, the engines for Altima were built at the company’s Decherd, Tenn. plant. Of course, the brand expects great success for the 2013 version of Altima, because until now the model is the second best-selling car in the United States.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzYRJ3pbyCM

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Nissan

March 5, 2012

Alternative Fuels: Propane, Electricity, Ammonia and Liquid Nitrogen

Yesterday we discussed two of the most popular alternative fuels – biodiesel and alcohol fuel. As we already became familiar, both are efficient not only in ecological terms, but also in economical ones. Given that the concerns around the global warming are escalating, I presume that in the future, there will be a great necessity for vehicles which emit less CO2 or are with zero emissions. Hence, this leads to the though that even more alternative ways for propulsion are going to arise in the near future. As we all can see, even now on the market, there is a big expansion of electric vehicles and hybrid ones. In addition, the brands are competing in the development of vehicles which are both fuel efficient and ecologically preserving.

First, let’s review one popular alternative fuel: propane. It is a compressed natural gas which almost everybody has used in their homes. However, it is popular as an alternative fuel too. It is a by-product of natural gas processing and petroleum refining. The process is called cracking. What is commonly used as vehicle fuel is actually a mixture of propane and butane, or more familiar as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG or LP gas). It is not necessary to state the environmental benefits of its use and the fuel efficiency it delivers for they are already very well known. Take a look at some models, which are using this type of fuel:

Extremely utilized way of alternative vehicle propulsion is through the means of electricity. The good news is that although the EVs were very popular more than hundred years ago, their development now flourishes. Moreover, it seems that the automotive world is in a stage of competition. The different brands are investing nowadays more than ever in the development of technologies, using electricity as alternative fuel. The EVs use electricity which is stored in battery in the car and don’t emit CO2. Although, they aren’t as fast as their gasoline powered rivals, they are considered perfect for city driving. Some of the electric vehicles, already on the market:

Did you know that ammonia can be used as fuel? In fact, ammonia has been proposed as a practical alternative to fossil fuel for internal combustion engines back in the beginning of the last century. In addition, it can be successfully used in already existing vehicles, which engines need only slight modification. Ammonia is beneficial in terms of zero emissions and economical efficiency.

Liquid nitrogen is another type of emissionless alternative fuel. Liquid nitrogen vehicles are comparable in many ways to the electric vehicles. However, they use liquid nitrogen to store the energy instead of batteries as it is in the case of EVs. They have several advantages that should be mentioned. First of all, they can be powered through the electrical grid (which contributes to their eco-friendliness). Secondly, there wouldn’t be any transportation of the fuel, since the power is delivered from the electrical grid. This is also economically viable. Next, the maintenance is also at low costs. At last but not least, the liquid nitrogen vehicles don’t have the degradation problems of the battery systems.

To sum up there are many different types of alternative fuels and nowadays even more are developed and considered for commercial use. Of course the main reason for this expansion of research is the negative environmental impact which the gasoline powered vehicles are causing, due to their high levels of CO2 emissions in the atmosphere. Undoubtedly, in the near future the commercial use of electric cars or hybrid ones won’t be considered as extravagancy but as a high level of environmental awareness.

Vehicles with Zero Emissions - the future of the automotive world? — Vehicles with Zero Emissions – the future of the automotive world

March 4, 2012

Alternative Fuels: Biofuel, Alcohol and Hydrogen

This week’s fresh “eco” air is a small review of some of the alternative fuels available for use. A simple fact is that humanity sooner or later will experience the necessity of their utilization. Hence, the aim of the article is not only to raise the ecological awareness, but also to lift up the veil of ignorance around the alternative vehicle fuels that can be successfully utilized. (more…)

March 3, 2012

2012 Audi A3 world premiere in Geneva

Audi is going to air live broadcast of the world premiere of their new 2012 Audi A3 from Geneva Motor show, which is going to start next week. The debut is scheduled for Tuesday (6th of March) 8.45 a.m. (CET). With this step Audi brand is making possible the world debut to be witnessed by many more people. The live broadcast will be via satellite and web streaming, thus giving the opportunity to the public to watch Audi Press Conference. In addition, an array of digital formats will be making their world premiere together with the Audi A3, paving the way for a new way of exchanging information with journalists. The ultimate aim of this approach to communications is to show the 2012 Audi A3 from unusual perspectives.

For more information on how you can be part of all this, please visit the official Audi web site.

Source: Audi

March 2, 2012

2012 Mercedes-Benz CL Grand Edition

Mercedes-Benz is going to mark the 60^th anniversary of “S-Class Coupé” with the launch of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL Grand Edition model. Since the start of the production of the sensational 300 S in 1952, the brand has established the lineage of today’s CL-Class. Hence, ever since then, the large S-Class Coupés have been considered the epitome of automotive refinement. These exceptional two-door luxury-class coupés deliver premium comfort of a prestige luxury saloon, in combination with the dynamics of a sports car. All this: in the form of an exceptionally elegant tourer. For the new “Grand Edition”, Mercedes-Benz has further enhanced the sophistication of the design of the iconic vehicle.
In details, to emphasise further the exceptional, hand-finished character of the limited edtion CL‑Class, the designer has furnished the “Grand Edition” with some of the finest ingredients from the exquisite designo range. Therefore, this makes possible for customers to choose between the three designo paint finishes: platinum black metallic, mocha black metallic and magno cashmere white. And to maket with even sportier appeal, there has been also added the AMG Sports package, with powerful front and rear aprons and distinctive side sill panels. This exclusive version sits on 20-inch light-alloy wheels in a choice of five-spoke or filigree 10-spoke designs. A “Grand Edition” badge provides a discreet indication of the CL Coupé’s exclusive-edition status.

Next, the interior of the Mercedes was exquisitely handcrafted and comes with high-quality aniline leather. Three leather colours are available: designo aniline leather armagnac, designo aniline leather deep black and the lighter designo aniline leather porcelain. The full range of CL trim finishes is available, including black ash and high-gloss burr walnut.

2012 Mercedes-Benz CL Grand Edition (Interior)

Speaking in technical terms, the CL Grand Edition is no less exceptional than any other CL model. For instance, the active suspension system Active Body Control (ABC) with crosswind stabilisation sets the benchmark for driving dynamics and comfort on all rear-wheel drive CL models. In addition, exclusive safety systems are also included: drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST, PRE-SAFE^® automatic emergency braking, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, and Adaptive Highbeam Assist systems. To go even further into details, let’s review the engline range. The current V8 biturbo with a displacement of 4.6 litres and sophisticated spray-guided direct petrol injection system in the CL 500 BlueEFFICIENCY delivers 320 kW (435 hp), provides torque of 700 Nm. More importantly, it offers great fuel efficiency of only 9.5 l/100 km combined; and Co2 emissions of just 224 g/km. The same engine is also used in the CL 500 BlueEFFICIENCY with 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The pinnacle of the engine range is provided by the CL 600 with its astonishing 380 kW (517 hp) 12-cylinder biturbo engine.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

March 2, 2012

2012 Lexus RX and 2012 Lexus RX F Sport to debut in Geneva

Exclusive news has just arrived from the Lexus brand. It is preparing a great exhibit at this years’ Geneva Motor Show, where it is going to showcase for the first time its “hot” new and exclusive models of 2012 Lexus RX and 2012 Lexus RX F Sport.

Unfortunately, there isn’t any additional information (except for the picture-teaser below), concerning these models, so we have to patiently wait till 6^th of March. However, the main attention in Geneva will be put on the European premiere of the Lexus LF-LC Concept Car. More vehicles to be previewed at the show are the all new Lexus GS 450h and of course – Lexus GS 450h F Sport.

Source: Lexus

March 2, 2012

2012 Hartmann Mercedes-Benz Sprinter SP5 Conference

The new tuning made by Hartmann is based on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter model. The interior of the vehicle is absolutely spectacular and combines luxury and refinement in every possible level. At its core the vehicle is a salon with two single seats and two swivel chairs. In addition, they are also covered with the best genuine Mercedes-Benz nappa leather in “Sunset red” colour or fine Alcantara in “Java” colour.

Furthermore, they are heated as well. In the centre of this Sprinter is a seat and table rail system, which were created in colaboration with TÜV Nord. The side panels and the canopy were also covered in the high-quality leather.

In the rear part of the interior, Hartmann tuners installed different furnishings made of non-distorting boat plywood, which was additionally covered with makassar veneer on both sides, a 6-fold coat of paint and polished. Moreover, there are two highly luxurious roller front cupboards suitable for wardrobe and files, including two 12-Volt connections and an external 220-Volt connection for an additional power supply.

Adding to the spectacular interior there were also installed a catering cabinet for some dishes, a cabinet with an integrated compressor cooling box and a Nespresso coffee bar. The entire setup is lit by ambience lighting with warm-light LED lamps in the canopy and lighting under the rear worktables. Of course, the Sprinter was fully insulated to enhance even further the privacy.

2012 Hartmann Mercedes-Benz Sprinter SP5 Conference — Hartmann Mercedes-Benz Sprinter SP5 Conference Interior (2012)

Another refinement with leather and alcantara was made on the drivers and passengers area. In addition, the technicians installed a Pioneer head unit with route planner, Bluetooth phone, DVD-/CD-changer and Ampire low-range bass, as well as a sophisticated speaker system. The tuners didin’t miss the steering wheel: it was covered in special leather in black and sunset red.

There were also included individual carpets in dark red wool velour. In addition to all this, 2012 Hartmann Mercedes-Benz Sprinter SP5 Conference comes with aluminium wheel set, equipped with 265/40R20 tyres; aerodynamics construction set, including front spoiler skirt, a side sill set and tail skirt create a skilfully sportive appearance.

Source: Hartmann Tuning

March 2, 2012

2012 SEAT Toledo Concept

At the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, SEAT brand will proudly present their new concept vehicle, named Toledo, which combines the proportions of a classic saloon car with a sporty, almost coupe-like design. This is a next-generation of the SEAT Toledo, which in addition is an extraordinary combination of emotion, excellent design quality and rational usability. It carries powerful and solid stance, clear surfaces and lines, and new headlamp form which is a signature feature of SEAT’s new design DNA. Furthermore the new 2012 SEAT Toledo Concept also offers spaciousness and usability within compact dimensions. Within its length of 4.48 metres, and wheelbase of 2.60 meters, the new Toledo delivers spaciousness for five people, a luggage compartment of more than 500 litres and large rear hatch and folding rear bench. These dimensions make the vehicle perfect for city driving as well as for long journeys and family transportation needs. Moreover, the luggage compartment is equally spaciously proportioned, with impressive volume. In addition, the new concept vehicle possesses a large rear hatch for optimum loading. Eventually, the folding rear seats facilitate an exceptionally long load length and give the Toledo a usability that is almost on par with that of an estate car.

With the new 2012 SEAT Toledo Concept, SEAT Design is adding an extra portion of sophistication into the design language. At first sight, one can see that the vehicle got a fine figure with its stretched proportions, clean surfaces and sculpted edges. The grille is with honeycomb mesh and retains its trapezoidal form. However its look now is wider and lower. The same pattern is applied on the large air inlet beneath the bumper. One of the characteristic elements of the new SEAT design language is the pentagonal form of the broad front headlamps. The light units come with the chromed “wing” between main headlamp and daytime running light. The broad rear lights also received the same styling, thus contributing to the entire rears impression of quality and solidity. Observed from the side, the new Toledo Concept has taut and dynamic look. This impression is achieved, thank to the clean edge runs from the headlamps across the shoulders to the rear lights. In addition to that the area around the sills has a simple, sculptural feel. Nonetheless, the most important element here is the roofline, which carves an elegant arc all the way to the powerful breadth of the C-pillar, emerging seamlessly from the rear side panel.
At last the interior of the 2012 SEAT Toledo Concept portrays the modern lines of the exterior and gives a feel for spaciousness. The cockpit delivers a feeling of ergonomic clarity, with the top of the dashboard seeming to float effortlessly above the air vents and trim elements. Furthermore, the light coloring of the interior comes with stitching of the leather seats and the leather cladding on the cockpit and doors. All this emphasizes the superb character of the new Toledo Concept.

Source: SEAT

March 2, 2012

2012 SKN Volkswagen Golf V GTI

The German tuning company SKN Tuning has made an astonishing makeover on a Volkswagen Golf V GTI. The car comes with the standard 2.0-TFSI-GTI with 200 PS (147 kW), and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h for just 7.2 seconds. After a powerful tuning stage 3 software, hardware modifications and motor sport exhaust system, the car now delivers ultimately 300 PS (226 kW) as well as 425 Nm (314 lb-ft) of torque. In addition, the exhaust system is now with reduced dynamic pressure installed by MILLTEK Sports and it is also equipped with 200-inch HJS-motorsport catalysts for powerful sound. Moreover, there are also featured CH-R rims in combination with special tyres from MARANGONI in 225/35ZR19 dimensions. The modification required the installation of diverse aerodynamics parts in a carbon look too. MOV’IT high-performance braking system on the other hand provides strong deceleration for above 250 km/h fast cars. WRAP Attack foliation professionals are responsible for unmistakable GTI outfit. And at last the GTI interior received also and update through various leather materials and colors.

In details the tuning features: improved acceleration and better response characteristic; stability and safety with technical inspection association and guarantee; vehicle retains current emissions class (ASU); greater torque and power; extensive dealer network; greater dynamics and driving pleasure; BBS CH-R Black 8.5 x 19 | ET 48 | 5 x 112; low-pressure casting for long-lasting performance; weight optimisation using FEM-analysis, made in Flow-Forming process specially developped for Formula 1; B14 PSS coilover suspension lowering VA = 20-30mm | HA = 10-30mm; Clarion – 2 DIN DVD Multimedia Station with integrated navigation (NX501E); 2x 4-canal High-End amplifier 4360 for 2x Stereo Front/Rear; 2x Subwoofer APA; 2x SRM3093HX High-End Subwoofer; 2 pairs SRU1720S High End Kompo-System; WRAP attack Laminating and foliation of a car; JK Autosattlerei Complete modification, changing of the interior with various leather materials and colours; Marangoni Marangoni M-POWER 225 / 35 ZR 19.

Source: SKN Tuning

March 1, 2012

2012 BMW M3 Coupé and Convertible Limited Edition 500

The exceptional new BMW M3 Coupé and Convertible Limited Edition 500 are going to be launched in the UK market this month. These special editions are strictly limited, and feature a colour palette of Imola Red, Mineral White or Santorini Blue. Only 500 of these models will be manufactured, and this number is combined for Coupe and Convertible variants. Each model includes an edition designation laser cut into the trim inlay on the dashboard. Mechanically, the vehicle is unchanged over the M3 in terms of technical specifications. It uses the astonishing 420hp (309 kW) V8 engine, M-specific chassis with either six-speed manual or seven-speed M DCT transmission.

The BMW’s are going to be available in three exterior colours, which are complemented by the characteristic M-car signature details of the kidney grille surround. The side gills and twin double exhaust pipes are finished in dark chrome. Both Coupé and Convertible models are equipped with BMW’s high-gloss Shadowline exterior trim and are further improved by the 19-inch high-gloss black light-alloy wheels. Each BMW M3 Limited Edition 500 will be trimmed with BMW’s extended Novillo leather. There also will be included a contrast stitching on the sports seats and door panels. This of course will complements the exterior: Imola Red cars feature Black leather with Mugello Red stitching, Mineral White cars feature Fox Red leather with Black Stitching, and those cars finished in Santorini Blue feature Black leather with Tobago Blue stitching. Furthermore, the interior of the new Limited Edition 500 features BMW’s Piano Black interior trim, with the edition designation – “One of 500” – laser cut into the left-hand side of the inlay on the dashboard.

To be even more precise the BMW M3 is powered by the 420hp (309 kW) V8 engine that revs to 8,300rpm with 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque developed at 3,900rpm. The BMW comes with M’s six-speed manual gearbox as standard, complete with the variable M differential. BMW’s M DCT (M Double Clutch Transmission) is optional and it serves in terms of fuel efficiency, decrease of CO2 emissions and faster acceleration. The exceptional BMW M3 is capable of accelerating from 0 to 62mph in just 4.6 seconds (Coupé with M DCT).It has a limited top speed of 155mph. Nevertheless, despite these performance figures the car still delivers up to 25.2mpg on the combined cycle, due to the comprehensive suite of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies including Brake Energy Regeneration.

The price for the 2012 BMW M3 Limited Edition 500 starts at £55 690 for the Coupe and £59 785 for the Convertible model.

Source: BMW

March 1, 2012

Author: Lidia Todorova