Lidia Todorova – Page 87 – Automobiles Review

HPE has Future Plans of Building World’s Fastest Sedan [VIDEO]

HPE1000 Twin Turbo Cadillac CTS-V Sedan Side View One of my most favorite tuners is Hennessey Performance Engineering (HPE), because it always surprises me with its supreme and outstanding projects. The newest one aims to be world’s fastest four-door sedan and will be based on the Cadillac CTS-V. In fact, the model can’t be seen on the streets yet, since its market launch begins later this year.

But when this happens, we will have more than 640 hp and a top speed of nearly 200 mph. The team at HPE finds this as the perfect basis, since it is planning to make an HPE1000 Twin Turbo CTS-V.

The last versions of the CTS-V tuned model, was a VR1200 Twin Turbo coupe, which ran 221 mph (356 km/h) on State Highway 130. John Hennessey believes that the new 2016 Twin Turbo CTS-V will have a top speed of more than 240 mph (386 km/h).

If you are already interested in buying one, then it’s probably better to make a reservation soon, since there are going to be produced only 24 units. They will be driven by a strengthened 6.2L V8 engine, which will lose its factory supercharger but will gain twin turbos for more power and better performance.

There is also going to be also a wide range of performance upgrades like carbon-ceramic brakes, larger wheels and tires as well as a widebody upgrade. Custom interior also made it in the plan.

But more importantly, the performance upgrades will allow the V8 to produce more than 780-800 horsepower. And this promise makes us very impatient, doesn’t it?

httpv://youtu.be/y_0von_5SRk

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Hennessey Performance

April 8, 2015

Lava-made LARTE Tesla Model S to Debut in Monaco

Larte Design Tesla Model S Teaser We are eagerly waiting to see Larte Design’s Tesla Model S, when it debuts at the Top Marques Monaco on 16^th of April. The reason for this is that it will have a body work, which is not made from polyurethane or carbon, but from basalt fibers. Well, actually the front and rear aprons will be made of this material and in fact, this contributes for the weight of this kit to be only 13kg.

What does basalt fibers precisely mean? First, it means that they are made of material that is produced from volcanic rock, and some of it is actually millions of years old. Secondly, high smelting temperatures are required for its melting. This however does not impact its good total energy footprint. Thirdly, the result is that the basalt is also ecologically-viable, which resonates perfectly with the spirit of the Tesla.

The volcanic material has other good characteristics. For instance, its pure fibers’ high application temperature is between -269 and +650°. This makes it strength-to-weight ratio really great and perfectly suitable for the parts like the bumpers or spoilers. It makes them not only lighter but also stronger.

Compared to the conventional glass fibers, the basalt fibers are less acid-, base- and salt-resistant. In addition, the lava-derived material has a higher compression and shear strength, it has good price and this makes its future really bright. So what’s left is to see the car debuting in a week from now. This is when a lot of question will be answered.

Source: Larte Design

April 8, 2015

Opel ADAM ROCKS S: Cute or Masculine?

Opel Adam Rocks S Back and Side View Opel’s sporty mini-crossover is going to debut at the AutoRAI in Amsterdam on 17th of April. ADAM ROCKS S is cute, but at the same time it has this masculine appearance. And thanks to the Swing Top canvas roof it is ready for adventure. Powered by the 1.4-liter turbo ECOTEC engine, it is capable of 150 horsepower (110 kW) and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque.

Due to the Start/Stop function the engine is not only potent but also efficient because it uses 5.9 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers in the combined cycle. This equates to 139 g/km of CO2. The unit also comes fitted with a short ratio 6-speed gearbox, which contributes for the 0-100 km/h acceleration sprint to happen in mere 8.5 seconds. Top speed is 210 km/h.

With this performance the car needed some other sport tweaks. For instance, the chassis has been lowered by 15 mm compared to the ADAM ROCKS version. It is also equipped with a direct sporty steering and a high performance braking system and an ESP system.

Furthermore, the vehicle stands firmly on the road due to the wide front and rear tracks that measure 1,472 and 1,464 mm, respectively. The other special sportswear that needs to be mentioned comprises of an extended rear bumper, aggressive exhaust tailpipe and a rear spoiler planted on the roof.

At last, the car is also fitted with wide range of technology features like the Advanced Park Assist, Side Blind Spot Alert and the IntelliLink infotainment system. That’s nice, isn’t it? And if the price is reasonable, I bet this car will be a big hit in Europe.

Source: Opel

April 8, 2015

Citroen Reveals Aircross Concept Ahead of Shanghai Debut

Citroen Aircross Concept is finally here. Online, I mean. The car is scheduled to debut at this year’s Shanghai Motor Show. This cute SUV is an example how the French company expresses its perception of power and determination. First, notice the huge wheels mated with Continental 275/42 R 22 tyres. As a matter of fact, the tyres were specifically created for the concept and include large tread blocks and a unique pattern.

The front features the typical for Citroen front bumper, chevron design and a two-tier light signature. At the rear we see a new rear bumper that includes 3D-effect lights. Strong graphic components further emphasize how special this car is and they also hint to better aerodynamic capability. On the other hand, the orange-red body paint expresses the intense nature of the vehicle.

The same design approach can be seen throughout the interior of the Aircross. One also finds inside great levels of comfort, generous and open spaces, and large storage compartments. What one immediately sees is the smooth and floating dashboard, which includes two large screens. Well, we should also mention the ‘king-size’ seats and the wraparound headrests that will additionally give that feeling of comfortability.

The next thing that one should consider here is the technology. Citroen has filled the Aircross concept with systems that are innovative and the same time practical. For instance, the innovative screens have this strong graphic personality. Then there is the mobile and motorized screen that can be transferred from passenger to passenger, and speakers and a microphone equipped seats. In summary, there are a lot of technology tweaks that can make everyone happy.

What’s left is the engine under the hood. Well, it is not a surprise that the Aircross is actually a hybrid. It is driven by a plug-in hybrid petrol engine coupled with an electric motor located on the rear axle. The 1.6 THP gasoline unit ensures that there is 218 hp (160 kW) and 275 Nm (203 lb-ft) of torque, while the electric motor generates 95 hp (70 kW) and torque of 200 Nm (148 lb-ft). It is also impressive that the Aircross is capable to accelerate from 0 to 62mph in only 4.5 seconds.

When the car is driven in an all-electric mode, it can travel up to 31 miles (50km), thus emitting 0 CO2. When the petrol engine is involved, then the CO2 emissions are an impressively low and are measured at 39g/km. The combined cycle fuel consumption is 166mpg (1.7 l/100 km).

2015 Citroen Aircross Concept Technical Data:

Dimensions:

Length: 4.58 m
Width: 2.10 m
Height: 1.73 m
Wheelbase: 2.80 m

Plug-in hybrid drivetrain:

1.6 THP petrol engine: power 218bhp (160kW) / torque 275Nm
Electric motor on rear axle: power 95bhp / torque 200Nm
ZEV mode: range of 31 miles (50km)

Performance, fuel consumption & emissions:

0 to 62mph (100km/h): 4.5 seconds
Fuel consumption: 166mpg (1.7 l/100 km) MVEG combined cycle
CO2 emissions: 39g/km

Tyres:

Continental 275/45 R 22

Source: Citroen

April 8, 2015

Why this Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 Needs Your Attention?

VAETH Mercedes-Benz GLA 200 Side View When German automotive power is combined with knowledge, precision and creativity, we have as a result a car like this VAETH Mercedes-Benz GLA 200. The specialists at VAETH are not only renowned for their great chassis modifications, but are also famous with their great engine techniques. The question here is what they have done to this Mercedes GLA 200? Let’s see.

First, the engine has been subjected to optimization. The car can actually produce a serial 156 hp (115 kW) and 250 Nm (185 lb-ft) of torque. After the upgrade with V20 tuning kit, the 1.6 liters engine boasts 184 hp (135 kW) and 310 Nm (229 lb-ft) of torque.

More power also means new exhaust. Therefore the tuners decided that the 270 EVO VA stainless steel down pipe sports exhaust system is the perfect choice. It also received oval end pipe in 110 x 90 mm and crimped end pipe edges on the right and left, making it look really good.

Steel flex tubes and Castrol SRF racing braking fluid are what improves the braking system. At last, new wheels are mandatory for VAETH, since the company wants to make everything perfect. Precisely, the car now runs on in-house made 18” rims in black: 8.5 x 18” at the front and 9.5 x 18” at the rear. Of course, they were coupled with the appropriate tires.

And this is why this Mercedes-Benz needed your attention. How would you rate it?

Source: Miranda Media

April 8, 2015

What happened to the 1700HP LM2 Streamliner?

LM2 Streamliner Revealed in NY Do you remember when we announced that a 1700 horsepower hypercar will debut at the New York Auto Show? Well, it did, after the official press days though. The first thought that comes to mind is that the prototype wasn’t actually finished in time and this has caused the delay. There was even an official statement from Lyons Motor Car that the Streamliner will be available for public view during the consumer/public days of the event, because the “prototype wasn’t ready”.

What we have found today at the official Facebook page of the company is those two photos of poor quality that actually display the car. And I am definitely not impressed. Maybe a little surprise is there, since this actually looks like a plastic box with an odd shape that is put over very posh and expensive wheels. Could this car even sustain 1700 hp?!?! My guess is that it would fall apart.

What is more, there isn’t a reliable explanation why the prototype wasn’t revealed during the press days, thus missing the opportunity to be shown to the world. Or is Lyons Motor Car trying to hide some details about the Streamliner and actually avoiding questions? We would probably never know, since I sincerely doubt that this car would ever develop 1700 hp .. or even 700 hp.

If my guesses are wrong, then we’ll see how this DOHC V8 powered car develops the promised horses and covers the 0-100 km/h acceleration sprint in just 2.2 seconds. Still, I doubt that Bugatti should have any fears of having this more potent rival.

Pictures Source: Lyons Motor Car via Facebook

April 7, 2015

Black Bison is the Name Given to Lexus NX by Wald International

Wald International Lexus NX Front View We know Wald International for its famous Black Bison tunings, which are not only captivated but also covered in mystery. The reason for this is that the company is based in Japan and rarely releases any information in English or other more commonly known language. This of course isn’t a problem since the invention of the online translators, but it still keeps most of the details in secret because we usually get lost in the translation.

Going further into details, the new release of the company involves a Lexus NX model and a Black Bison kit. The car looks stunning and maybe the reason for this is the minimal approach in the design. Precisely, the kit works together with the factory lines and this is what really makes me keen on it.

At the front Wald added a new front lip and 15mm over fenders for the face. The rear stands out with new rear gate spoiler and rear skirt with LED brake lights. There is also an arrow head panel for the rear door as well as various alloy wheels options.

Engine remains intact (unfortunately) and this means that the NX will be powered by one of the two standard powerplants: the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder which produces 235 hp (173kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque, or the hybrid 2.5-liter unit with 195 hp (143 kW). How would you rate this tuning from one to ten?

Source: Wald International

April 7, 2015

Ultima Sports Unveils 1020 HP Supercar Called Evolution

Ultima Sports Ltd is a supercar manufacturer based in the UK, which is famous for its world record holding models: the Ultima GTR and Ultima Can-Am. A few hours ago the company has published on their official Facebook page that it is releasing an exciting new car named Ultima Evolution. The car itself will come in two variants – a coupe and a cabrio. The sad news is that these two versions will replace the ongoing GTR and Can-Am that are both currently discontinued.

As you can see from the photos below, the Evolution has kept the Le Mans Group C inspired body shape. Nonetheless, it is also obvious that the design has been improved and made more contemporary. The company says that the new supercar has been actually updated in every sense: from the finish, quality, safety, comfort to the handling and performance.

Under the hood, one finds the gasoline LS Chevrolet V8 engine, which, interestingly enough, is offered with more than fifteen different power level options. The output range starts at 350 hp for the base model and ends with the 1020 hp model.

The first production car is a coupe and it is depicted here. It is said that it carries the supercharged LS V8 1020 hp (750 kW) unit, which is also responsible for 1247 Nm (920 lb-ft) of torque. In fact, the Evolution has already been tested and has recorded a road legal 0-60 mph time of 2.3 seconds. The 0-100 mph sprint is covered in 4.9 seconds, while the top speed stands firm at 240 mph.

With this news we are actually awaiting for a new world record, right?

Source: Ultima Sports Ltd

April 7, 2015

M-Zero: Is this the First Supercar to be made in India? [VIDEO]

Mean Metal M-Zero Front View I am sure that you haven’t heard anything about Mean Metal Motors, since I have just understood it existed. The reason for this is that this is a new company and more importantly, that it is actually based in India. And it seems like an unspoken rule that supercars can be made only in Europe. Well, this company seems to question this, because Mean Metals is actually working on the first Indian supercar.The project is dubbed M-Zero and what isn’t put forward here is that on it are working four teams from four countries. The Portuguese and Italians are designing the body and styling; those in UK take care for the simulations and analysis, while the Indians are left with the work on the engine and transmission, aerodynamics and handling, electronics and energy storage systems. So pretty much, this is the first Indian supercar made with a lot of European help.What has been revealed so far? First, the M-Zero will have carbon-fibre monocoque tub chassis and will be driven by a hybrid powertrain. The mid-engined supercar might get either a 4.0-litre AMG V8 bi-turbo or the 4.8-litre NA V10, which will be connected to an electric motor. The targeted total output is 750 hp.Furthermore, the involved Crosshair system will act as a stabilizer and will improve aerodynamics. The supercar will also run on special alloy wheels, which will adapt easily to the road conditions. Hydro-pneumatic struts, light-weight suspension system and a Turbulize will all help the M-Zero execute perfect performance.And what do you think of Fingerprint Keyless entry? It might sound unreal, but this car will have it, meaning that the owner will be the one and only behind the steering wheel.M-Zero will stay in Metal Motors computers if they don’t find funds. The money they are looking for is around $7 million USD and they will be used for the making of the prototype. There is even a manufacturing facility planned and it will be surprisingly in Europe. This hints to the conclusion that the company is obviously aiming at people living in the old continent.Does this project seem plausible to you? Tell us what you think.httpv://youtu.be/HZJrkVrwrUw

April 7, 2015

Vorsteiner Shows Custom Huracan Verona Edizione

Lamborghini is a company that always excites us. Rarely there is a person in the world that doesn’t like something about the supercars it produces. Even more exciting is when we see a Lambo getting “dressed up” by a tuner known for the high-quality expertise. This is the case with the Huracan here, since it has been given a special touch by the professionals at Vorsteiner.

The most important fact about this tuning is that this Lambo received a new goose neck wing. It was made of aluminum and painted in a combination of matte silver and matte black. The tuners also added carbon fiber wing blade element and base wing, both in matte and gloss lacquer.

The here presented car is painted in Rosso Mars exterior paint color and sits on in-house made 20 and 21 inch matte black alloys (for the front and the rear respectively). Pirelli P Zero tires are also necessary to complement the new wheels and they come in the dimensions of 245/30/20 up front and 325/25/21 at the rear.

Since Vorsteiner is a company which puts an emphasis on the appearance, the car did not receive any engine treatment. This means that the production 5.2 liter V10 keeps the 610 hp (448 kW) and 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) of torque.

The engine is linked to a 7-speed dual clutch transmission and an all-wheel drive system. Of course, this will still allow it to cover the 0-100 km/h acceleration sprint in 3.2 seconds, and the 0-200 km/h in 9.9 seconds, running after a top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph).

Source: Vorsteiner

April 7, 2015

Here is the story behind 1970 Dodge Charger R/T from Furious 7 [VIDEO]

1970 Dodge Charger T/T from Fast and Furious 7 Movie Everyone is talking about “Furious 7” since its official premiere happened this Friday. If you are among the lucky ones who get to make a reservation for a ticket to the outrageous premiere, then you have already enjoyed all those action scenes, beautiful muscle cars and tension involved. Not to mention that this film is actually the last one of the legendary Paul Walker … and this makes everything even more emotional.

Especially for those who have seen the film, and even for those who haven’t or are on the ticket queue, we’ve found this video on YouTube that gives us more hints on not one but two of the cars from the Furious 7. Don’t worry, no spoilers are included.

The short film below invites us into Dennis McCarthy’s shop in southern California. This is where we have the opportunity to check out those two special cars. As interesting as it actually is, Dennis has a dream job. He has been created and coordinating the vehicles for the Fast and Furious series since Tokyo Drift, which he admits was the biggest step in his career.

What you are going to see below is the custom Charger driven by Dom, Vin Diesel’s personage. And it seems that this is not only our personal most favorite car I the film, but also McCarthy’s. The other car we will keep in secret in order to keep the surprise intact. Check it out:

httpv://youtu.be/PGeju_67Res

Source: theAFICIONAUTO via YouTube

April 6, 2015

Jon Olsson is ready for Gumball 3000 with a fierce Audi RS6

Jon Olsson is obviously more than ready for the strongly awaited Gumball 3000, since he has officially unveiled a DTM inspired Audi RS6, that was specifically made for the rally. He will drive this car for Team Betsafe in the aforementioned event, which begins on 23rd of May in Stockholm and ends in Vegas.

Olsson says that he always dreamt to build a similar DTM-inspired car which has enough space to carry all ski gear to the slopes. To make everything possible, he teamed up with the ex-Koenigsegg chief engineer, Leif Tufvesson, who is currently working for Caresto.

First thing to mention here is the changed output. Here is where Stertman Motorsport stepped in, delivering STM Stage 3+ kit with super custom 18 karat gold anodized TTE9XX turbo chargers. The result is that horses are jumping between 950 and 1000.

Next, the new power is supported with Intrax Black Titan suspension and the biggest Movit brake, while at the same time there is this huge super mega race exhaust kit from Milltek Sport. The ski box atop was made by 56Nord and it actually looks like a piece of art instead of just another plastic box on the roof.

At last, the final design that Olsson made got to be applied onto the car and this happen via special foil wrap implemented by Wrapzone. This project is making us really impatient for the Gumball. How about you?

Source: Jon Olsson

April 6, 2015

Author: Lidia Todorova