Lidia Todorova – Page 75 – Automobiles Review

Team 46 Drives an Aston Martin DBS that Glows in the Dark

Do you remember the Nissan which has these superpowers to glow in the dark? Well, if you do then you’ll know why this Aston Martin DBS have the same capabilities. For those who don’t, I must explain what has happened with both cars. First and foremost, they both can glow in the dark. This might sound very improbable, but actually it is actually due to the application of a very simple technology.

The paint used for covering the exterior both the Leaf EV and the DBS absorbs UV energy during the day so it can glow during the nighttime. This is a spray-applied coating or a foil-wrap, which absorbs the daylight and when the night falls, the absorbed energy can glow between eight and ten hours.

The creator of this innovative technology is Hamish Scott and has named it STARPATH. Both paint and foil are made of entirely organic materials. Scott actually used Strontium Aluminate to achieve the result. Another very interesting fact about this paint is that it could last for 25 years.

Now, Nevana Designs has applied this technology onto the DBS. The car is actually getting ready for the Gumball 3000 rally. The vehicle will be driven by Team 46 and in particular by David Morgan, who is proud owner as well. With this car he will definitely achieve his goal, namely his unique Aston Martin DBS to stand out among other cars.

Source: Nevana Designs via Facebook

May 25, 2015

Carlex Design with Another Fantastic Project: Z4 Rampant

BMW Z4 Rampant is the lane of the latest design project of the tuners at Carlex Design. They have become so famous because of their exquisite and detailed work. Just take a look at any of their projects and you’ll see what I’m talking about. This BMW is no exception. The car looks breath-taking due to its heavy customization.

Exterior

The unique design of the first generation Z4 roadster combines perfectly contemporary shapes with the stance and structure of model. The exterior has been covered with a two-tone silver and grey foil, thus giving the car its unique visual appearance.

What is more, the “outside” design is also characterized by the gun metal alloys and the custom front and rear bumpers. In addition, at the back we see the presence of a quad exhaust system and one-off carbon fiber rear diffuser.

Interior

From the inside, the vehicle is even more heavily customized. The tuners have used exceptional aniline grade leathers that seem vintage, like the black Alcantara and buffalo leather for example. They have been complemented by hand painted carbon parts. Even the audio system was covered with paint.

This one-off combination of style, textures and colors perfectly matches the untamed spirit of the V8 engine under the bonnet of the Z4, doesn’t it?

Source: Carlex Design via Facebook

May 25, 2015

Godzilla is Back: Meet Prior-Design’s 720HP Nissan GT-R

Nissan GT-R is undoubtedly on of the best sports cars on the planet. I sincerely think that there isn’t a car enthusiast who would not want to drive this emblematic vehicle. And it is always a pleasure when we see some good GT-R conversions. Remember the Liberty Walk Nissan GTR, for instance?

Well, this time the tuner is Prior-Design and it has given this Nissan a Widebody Godzilla aero kit. The most important thing that it has done for the GT-R is that it has lowered its weight, thus giving it the capability of faster acceleration.

PD750 Body Kit

The aerodynamic PD750 body kit comprises of several carbon fiber parts that has been added to the car. The first one is the new front bumper, which features large intakes for the uprated intercoolers and brakes.

The second one is the front lip spoiler, and the others are the side skirts and a three-piece rear underbody diffuser with vertical fins. The fins actually channel the out-going airflow in order to minimize the drag. As an option, the company is also offering an eight-piece wheel arch extension kit.

Drivetrain

The aggressive look of the Godzilla is complemented by the uprated engine. The 3.8-liter V6 unit driving the four wheels now produces 720 hp (529 kW) and 820 Nm (605 lb-ft) of torque. In addition, the new in-house made steel sport exhaust features a pair of 200-cell free-flow catalytic converters and a flap control. When entirely open, the latter emits powerful sound.

Wheels & Suspension

Prior-Design has ensured that the GT-R receives the best, so they given it a KW Variant 3 coil-over suspension system. Thanks to it, car’s ride height can be adjusted. There is also an added bounce and rebound control, which assists in the effective use of the extra power.

At last, the Nissan rides on new alloys which measure 10.5 and 13.0×21-inches at the front and rear, respectively. They provide huge mechanical grip and look spectacular.

Source: Prior-Design

May 25, 2015

BMW Unveils the Stunning 3.0 CSL Hommage Concept [VIDEO]

BMW 3.0 CSL Hommage Concept - Front Angle BMW has just revealed the incredibly beautiful 3.0 CSL Hommage Concept at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este meeting. As we told you already, the car is tribute to the historic BMW Coupé, famous in the 70s and its name, CSL, stands for “Coupé Sport Leichtbau”. The latter word is German and means lightweight, and there is a huge reason for that.

Lightweight Body

The design team has centered on the idea of less weight. This is the reason why the car features aluminium bonnet, boot and wings, Plexiglas windows and only essential equipment. This puts off around 200 kg from car’s sibling model, the BMW 3.0 CS. In addition, carbon-fiber has been used thoroughly inside and out.

Exterior

Athletic and powerful, the BMW 3.0 CSL Hommage is defined by distinctiveness. The body has been elongated, stands on powerful wheel arches and features significantly big spoilers on the roof and tail.

At the front, there is a front air, which vents the engine compartment. On the other hand, the wings over the rear wheels are what maximize the airflow. The characteristic for the company kidney grille here is somewhat different. It has been elongated, while its kidney struts give the front end an air of quality and exclusivity. Laser light and LED technology as well as the flat contours of the headlamps define the unique look of the car.

2015 BMW 3.0 CSL Hommage Concept - Rear Angle View

Instead rear-view mirrors, there are rear-view cameras, which also help in terms of aerodynamics. The stretched silhouette is characterized by low stance, wide wheel arches and dark CFRP areas narrow the gap between the sides and the road. The black graphic accents, the dark lightweight elements additionally highlight the silhouette. The car rides on black or matt and high-gloss bi-colour 21-inch alloys, while the air control blades serve to optimize aerodynamics. Two systems, the Air Curtain and Air Breather, ensure that there is optimum ventilation of the wheel housings.

At the back, the huge spoiler optimizes the downforce on the driven rear axle, thus enhancing power transmission. The styling of the rear lights is unique. There is a LED strip above the spoiler that links the two lights. At last, the unique exterior color, Golf Yellow, contributes for the perfect stance CSL Hommage.

Interior

2015 BMW 3.0 CSL Hommage Concept - Interior

The interior of the vehicle features only the most important equipment because of the lightweight design approach. Almost everything inside is made from carbon fiber. However, the only wood-like presence is the instrument panel, which is a reference to the interior of the earlier BMW 3.0 CSL.

The small central eBoost charging display is positioned in the middle of the wooden instrument panel. The infotainment is very small and it finds itself on the central display on the steering column. Other cool features inside include the black Alcantara bucket seats highlighted by contrasting stitching, the six-point belt and red anodised safety features.

World Debut

Here is a video of the official premiere of the car, which shows it in details. Although there aren’t any official details on the engine, the video shows it. Take a look:

httpv://youtu.be/Nz5Gw4E_Ijg

Video Source: YouTube

Source: BMW

May 25, 2015

Volkswagen Unveils the Polo Sedan Facelift

Another news from Volkswagen today: the facelifted Polo Sedan has just been revealed. The car was redesigned specifically for the 2015 model year and it features number of enhancements throughout the exterior and interior. The Polo is ready to go on sale next month (unfortunately only in Russia), so let’s see what the company has changed.

Exterior

The refreshed model features thoroughly revised front end. It has adopted the front grill from the Passat. In addition, the car also comes with different front fenders with chrome treatment, and new headlights that can be specified as bi-xenon. Daytime running lights LED headlamps are also available as an option, and the same counts for the LED tail-lamps.

Volkswagen is also offering a new exterior color option: beige. New are also the wheel caps and design of the alloys.

Interior

The interior of the car is defined by revisions in the center console abundant in color combinations and steering wheel. In fact, the latter is absolutely new and now features three spoke design. The upholstery can be also specified in beige color.

Engine

The Polo sedan will be powered by the same 1.6-liter petrol engine, which produces either 85 PS (63 kW) or 105 PS (77 kW), and will be mated to the standard five-speed manual or the available six-speed automatic transmission.

Trim Levels & Equipment

Three grades are at hand: Trendline, Comfortline and Highline. As a standard each will be fitted with electric windows, air conditioner, ABS, central locking and dual front airbags as well as trip computer. The optional safety features comprise of the side curtain airbags only.

Source: Volkswagen

May 22, 2015

Golf Cabrio Gets Updated Engine Range

Volkswagen has just announced that the latest Golf Cabriolet edition will get updates in its engine range. The new EU6-engine generation will deliver up to 15 percent lower fuel consumption. In addition, the car is also getting a different radio and navigation systems as an option.

All engines in the new TSI range are turbocharged. Here are featured the following: the 1.2-liter four-cylinder capable of producing 105 PS (77 kW) and 175 Nm (129 lb-ft) of torque; the 1.4-liter four-cylinder generating 125 PS (92 kW) and torque rated at 200 Nm (147 lb-ft); and the 1.4-liter four-cylinder pumping out 150 PS (110 kW).

The top of the range Golf GTI Cabriolet will have an uprated output, which is now 220 PS (162 kW). In comparison to its 210 PS predecessor, the 220 PS GTI convertible will be capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.9 seconds, which is 0.4 seconds faster. Despite the increase in power, the fuel consumption has been lowered by more than 15 percent and it is measured at 6.5 l per 100 km.

The diesel units have also received upgrades that have made them more efficient and powerful. For example, the 2.0 TDI now boasts 150 PS (110 kW) and 340 Nm (250 lb-ft) of torque, which means gains of10 PS and 20 Nm. It is capable to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.2 seconds and achieving a fuel consumption of 4.6 l per 100 km.

Besides these powertrain upgrades, the car will also benefit from the latest generation radio and navigation systems. The “Composition Colour” and “Composition Media” radios feature large multicolor touch screen and eight speakers, while the “Discover Media” navigation system now features Bluetooth option.

Source: Volkswagen

May 22, 2015

Zagato Maserati Mostro Debuts at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este

Mostro is a name of a car powered by Maserati and created by Zagato. In fact, it is company’s latest creation, which is set to be revealed during this year’s Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. The car is not only created to celebrate the centenary of Maserati, but also to honor one of the most iconic racers in Tridente’s history, the Maserati 450 S Coupe Zagato Monster. The latter was designed back in 1957 by Frank Costin, who was a specialist in aerodynamics. Then it was coach-built in Milan for the 24 Hours of Le Mans because of a request of Stirling Moss.

Body

Just like its predecessor, Mostro is built on the philosophy of pure racing mechanics. However, it is also completely road sanctioned. Its chassis is made of a MonoCell of carbon fiber coupled to a mid-structure of steel tubes. This creates the cockpit and the subframe that carries the fuel tank, exhaust system, rear suspension and gearbox.

The car is constructed in Italy and Zagato says that its bodywork is entirely carbon fiber. With a coupé-body design built on a sports car chassis, the Mostro features specific 450 S Coupe characteristics that express the classic design and timeless beauty of Zagato vehicles. All in all, its design showcases the spirit of the best aerodynamics combined with the stance of a modern race car.

Exterior Design

The idea behind this project is to keep the initial design of the 1957 racer. This is visible through the enormous frontal part that houses the engine. In addition, the large front fender runs along the entire length of the frontal part, then it disappears at the door. This is where the line of the car’s massive rear fender begins.

The other design characteristics that define this car are the fixed glass windows along the sides, the wide windshield increasing the visibility, and the high opening of the doors. The large rear fixed-wing creates adequate downforce on the rear axle.

Engine & Suspension

Under the hood there is a central-front V8 Maserati engine, which has dry-sump lubrication. The unit is linked to a semi-automatic six-speed rear-positioned gearbox. The latter optimally distributes the weight of the car along the longitudinal axis. At the front and the rear Zagato installed double wishbone architecture with a pushrod, spring and shock absorber system.

Wheels & Tires

This unique car will be running on 19-inch multispoke alloys behind which will be working large disc brakes. The wheels will be fitted with 255/40 R19 and 295/35 R19 rubbers at the front and rear, respectively.

Zagato Maserati Mostro will be exclusive edition and only five examples will be created. Each unit has been already assigned to selected Zagato collectors. First deliveries will happen before December this year.

Source: Zagato

May 22, 2015

TeslaVets by SS Customs Receives One-Off Photoshoot

This project is rather an old one, but the reason for our attention is the latest photoshoot it received. SS Customs has worked together with Richard Le Photography & Design to achieve these stunning pictures. If you do remember the car well, then you should also know that it comes to recognize the all the work Tesla does with US armed forces. Even more, the customization specialists also say that working with a company like Tesla on this creative project is dream come true.

So, #TeslaVets is based on the Model S – the most famous electric automobile. As you can see it carries specific visuals, which has been achieved in house but with some help from Tesla. The reason for this collaboration was Veterans Day honoring (11th of November)and this car is the way both companies say “Thank you”.

From what we know, the car is dressed in a special military Camo vinyl wrap, which was hand cut and then applied by hand. This cool appearance was then emphasized by the multispoke green powder coated green 21 inch Model S wheels.

In addition, we also see Yakima roof basket on whispbars with full Armed Forces regalia. We can’t skip the yellow tinted headlights, which are visible here very well, as well as the typical military equipment mounted on the custom-made roof rack.

And don’t forget to see the photos in the gallery below!

Source: SS Customs via Facebook

May 22, 2015

Kahn Releases Tech Pack for the Range Rover Evoque RS Sport

After the latest projects we have seen from Kahn Design, it is now time to show you something “more ordinary”. Of course, I am not talking about the exclusivity of the vehicle here, but about the fact that it isn’t that ambitious as the Vengeance Project or the Flying Huntsman. Instead, this Range Rover Evoque has received a thorough treatment.

Exterior

Equipped with the Tech Pack, the RS Sport version of the Evoque carries a wide range of exterior styling upgrades. First I should mention the striking exterior color, which is slick Santorini Black Metallic. See how dramatic it looks?

Next, at the front there is a matte black centre bumper section accompanied by a grille with 3-D mesh and a bumper mesh in matte black and silver. The side sills are contrasted by side vent inserts and integrated vents and LED daytime running lights.

At the sides we see new Matt Gun Metal multispoke RS600 wheels that come in the dimensions of 20-inches. They have been fitted with 275x40x20 tires, behind which hide a set of brake callipers. At last, rounding out the exterior of this car is the stainless steel cross-hair exhaust system, which gives the SUV even further muscular presence.

Interior

When one steps inside the RS Sport, he or she finds out an interior dressed in quilted and perforated black leather highlighted by the contrast stitching along. Other cool elements inside are the diamond gear selector, aluminium vented foot pedals, the stainless steel door entry sill plates and the carpet floor mats.

Source: Kahn Design

May 22, 2015

Meet the Flame Throwing Nero Nemesis Lamborghini Aventador [VIDEO]

This Lambo is astounding! Not only because of its exceptional looks, but also because it has received some special performance and visual updates. The specialists responsible for this are those at the Netherlands based company Baan Velgen. Called Nero Nemesis (like an Arch Enemy song, isn’t it) because of its looks, the car has been fitted with HRE styling upgrades as well as Akrapovic exhaust.

First, I must say that the Aventador runs on alloys that were specifically created for its purposeful stance and athletic appearance. These forged wheels come directly from the working place of HRE and are named P101. Colored in Satin Black to match the exterior, they undoubtedly contribute for the impression that this Lamborghini leaves.

The next extra things about this car are the Akrapovic goodies. First, the tuners installed slip-on exhaust and then they continued with the Akrapovic link pipes. They both are responsible for the special look and the special sound of the LP700-4.

Oh, and did I mention that one of the most impressive features of this exhaust is its capability to shoot flames?

What is more, this exhaust also includes the power of the Aventador and also saves around 46% of weight over the standard exhaust. This means that the V12 unit will have the capability of producing more than 700 horsepower (522 kW) and 690 Nm (511 lb-ft) of torque.

I’m sure you’ll enjoy this:

httpv://youtu.be/YoebPIUCRAw

Source: Baan Velgen via YouTube

May 21, 2015

See How Hennessey VelociRaptor Survives TopGear Test [VIDEOS]

I am sure that you know very well the 2015 Hennessey VelociRaptor 600, right? You can’t miss it because it is very loud, it has this eye-catching yellow color and it is literally huge! Not to mention that it is so powerful that even some of the famous sports cars can envy it.

And if you follow the famous Top Gear or Stig’s YouTube channel, then you should also know that there he has tested it to the limits. The first video below shows behind the scenes of this test. It seems that he actually drove it for fun rather than speed, so Top Gear didn’t time it.

In the second video, you’ll hear how John Hennessey speaking of what it takes to build a vehicle that is capable of surviving a TopGear off-road test. As a matter of fact, the VelociRaptor 600 was one of the last vehicles driven by Jeremy Clarkson on TopGear.

So, basically VelociRaptor 600 can pump out up to 623 horses, due to the addition of a 2.9 Liter Supercharger System to the Ford F-150 FX4 4×4 truck on which it is based. In addition, the 5.0L V8 breathes more deeply thanks to the high-flow air induction system and stainless-steel exhaust system included in the upgrade.

In other words, this is the most capable 4×4 ever built. And there is no wonder, why Stig enjoyed the ride so much. And don’t miss to watch the videos!

httpv://youtu.be/3iSftD0j2zY

httpv://youtu.be/F150ftqW6JU

Source: Hennessey Performance via YouTube

May 21, 2015

Honda Reveals the Fuel-Efficient Jade RS

Honda is starting with the sales of the new Jade RS on 28th of May. The sad news is that this car will be distributed only in Japan. The car is powered by the new 1.5-liter direct injection VTEC TURBO engine and is the newest addition in the Jade lineup. The Jade RS is benefits from the combination of the sedan, minivan and high-quality driving performance.

Honda also said that the new engine’s torque is equivalent to that of a 2.4-liter one. However, the fuel consumption of the VTEC Turbo is better and it is rated at 18 km per liter.

The other advantages of the car include a stylish exterior, three-row seating, Honda’s SENSING driver-assistive system, nimble steering and great chassis and suspension characteristics as well as the adoption of Agile Handling Assist (AHA).

Drivetrain

As mentioned, the Jade RS is powered by a 1.5-liter direct injection VTEC TURBO unit, which features improved turbo effect in the low rpm range. This allows for great torque response as well as smoothness and powerfulness.

In addition to the great fuel efficiency, the air-intake can be precisely controlled. The car also sports better noise insulation and vibration management, which is achieved via various measures like the increased rigidity of bearing caps supporting the crankshaft.

Furthermore, Honda has also developed a new transmission that is perfect for the new engine, because it exploits its full potential. The CVT also contributes for improvements in economy. It also features seven-speed mode paddle shifter for better driving experience.

Exterior

Honda means expressive and emotional design. The same approach is applied here and it is visible through the new front grille with the exclusive mesh-type design, which shows the torque-full driving. At the front grille we also see the “RS” emblem, which can be found on the tailgate as well.

Dark chrome plating has been used for the fog light garnish, outer door handle and tailgate molding. Helping in the noise reduction are also the 17-inch aluminum wheels.

Interior

Two interior trims are available for this car: black and brown. The materials utilized for the seat surface combine fabric and Prime Smooth. The leather wrapped steering wheel is contrasted via red stitching as are the black-color seats. At last, the acceleration pedal and brake pedal have an exclusive design and make this seven-seater sportier.

Chassis

It is important to mention that the rigidity of the front and rear suspensions was improved by 15% and 20%, respectively. The springs and dampers have these exclusive settings which allow for stable driving and a sporty steering feel.

The Agile Handling Assist or the so called AHA electronic control system uses brake vectoring to improve corner traceability. It also ensures a ride with confident handling feel and smaller steering wheel inputs.

At last, the car also got enhanced the rigidity of floor area via a reinforcement to the underfloor with a tunnel brace. This also allows for a movement which reflects more direct and linear steering operation.