Automobiles Review

Author: autoview

  • Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R

    Chevrolet today debuted the new Corvette Z06 GT3.R racecar, a year before it makes its competition debut at the 2024 Rolex 24 At Daytona.

    Making its public debut at Daytona International Speedway ahead of Saturday’s Rolex 24, the Corvette Z06 GT3.R is Chevrolet’s first racecar that fully meets FIA technical regulations for GT3 cars.

    Design and development of the mid-engine Z06 GT3.R is a collaboration between GM’s Competition Motorsports Engineering division and Pratt Miller Engineering. With an eye specifically toward customer racing, the Z06 GT3.R will be eligible for multiple championships in North America and around the world with a high level of parts and technical support available for its customers.

    The Corvette Z06 GT3.R will race for the first time as part of the GT Daytona (GTD) PRO category at the 2024 Rolex 24 At Daytona to open next year’s IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.

    “The Corvette Z06 GT3.R breaks new ground for Chevrolet and the Corvette Racing program,” said Mark Stielow, director, GM Motorsports Engineering Competition. “This customer-focused racecar leverages learnings from throughout Corvette Racing’s lengthy and successful history, plus the expertise of our Corvette production design, engineering and powertrain teams.”

    Track and street

    The Z06 GT3.R is a landmark racing vehicle for Chevrolet. Based on the highly acclaimed mid-engine Chevrolet Corvette Z06 supercar, this new race car takes the level of technology transfer between racing and production to a new level with more shared components and features than ever before.

    “Corvette Racing has been an important influence on the design of Corvette production cars for 25 years,” said Tadge Juechter, executive chief engineer, Corvette. “Corvette production and racing teams worked together closely in development to maximize the benefits of a mid-engine design, sharing lessons learned that set both programs up for all-out performance on the track.”

    The Z06 GT3.R begins its life as an aluminum chassis frame from Chevrolet’s Bowling Green Assembly plant in Kentucky[i]. The frame provides a lightweight yet strong and durable underpinning for both Z06 and Z06 GT3.R. Once in Michigan at Pratt Miller, a purpose-built steel roll cage is welded onto a base plate, which is secured to the chassis.

    A double-wishbone suspension at the front and rear promotes a higher level of adjustability and fitment of racing-specific tire sizes. This is the same front and rear suspension configuration as on the Z06 production vehicle.

    The motorsports engineering team added race springs and dampers, competition-specific rotors, calipers and pads. The Z06 GT3.R rides on 18-inch front and rear wheels — the same as on the C8.R.

    Advanced aerodynamic strategies also link the road-going Corvette and its GT3 counterpart. Motorsports engineers worked with the GM Design Studio to develop an aero package specific to the Z06 GT3.R to optimize levels of downforce, stability, drag reduction and cooling.

    The goal was to design a GT3-spec Corvette that is suitable across different tire specifications, balance-of-performance settings and other customer preferences while not sacrificing performance or drivability on a variety of tracks and racing surfaces.

    In order to enhance performance of the Z06 and Z06 GT3.R, each uses similar carbon fiber splitters which provide optimal downforce at the front of the vehicles. On the underside of the Z06 GT3.R, a new and purpose-designed carbon fiber diffuser routes air from the front of the car toward the rear in order to create an optimal level of overall stability.

    The underbody aerodynamic devices work together in complementing the functionality of a new-for-2024 wing that aids in airflow at the rear of the Z06 GT3.R and the creation of downforce for enhanced cornering ability.

    Aggressive and efficient ducting will move air to cool internal components. Intakes at the front of the Z06 GT3.R draw in air to cool the front brakes. A single, large opening on the hood — a new design philosophy from the C8.R — extracts out air after it moves over the radiator.

    From the top of the windshield to the rear of the car, the surface elements of the Z06 stayed intact for the Z06 GT3.R, accentuating the tie between production and racing. Most notable are side air ducts behind the doors — directly inspired by Z06 production road car — that help to cool the engine, transaxle and rear brakes.

    Corvette production power for Z06 GT3.R

    The Corvette Z06 GT3.R will feature a 5.5L, flat-plane crankshaft DOHC V-8 engine derived from the production Z06. This engine began on-track development in 2019 with the initial testing of the C8.R, ahead of its use in the production Z06.

    The LT6 engine for the GT3.R originates from the Performance Build Center in Bowling Green, the same line on which all production Corvette Z06 engines are built.

    The 5.5L powerplant shares more than 70 percent of its parts with the production Z06 engine, including the crankshaft, connecting rods, cylinder heads, fuel injectors, coils, gaskets and a variety of other sensors.

    “Racing continues to play a key role in the development of our production engines,” said Russ O’Blenes, director, Performance and Racing Propulsion Team. “There were valuable lessons learned during the C5-R through C7.R programs that aided in the development of our V-8 engines for production and racing — many dealing with efficiency, materials and light-weighting. The flow of information from Corvette Racing to production engineering and back has helped us build race and street-car engines that are fast, reliable and efficient.”

    Safety structure features

    Chevrolet and Pratt Miller have worked together to incorporate a number of features into the GT3.R, building on safety construction from the C8.R.  The Z06 GT3 features a side-impact crash structure between the driver’s side door and roll cage. Pioneered in the C7.R, the box features an outer casing of carbon fiber and Kevlar, and is filled with an aluminum honeycomb construction.

    The GT3 Corvette’s integrated steel roll cage is slightly modified from the current racing Corvette to provide easier ingress and egress.

    Testing

    The reveal of the Z06 GT3.R follows a two-year testing program. Virtual simulation through Chevrolet’s Driver in the Loop simulator began in early 2021.

    The first on-track test of the Z06 GT3.R took place in September 2022 — which means the Z06 GT3.R will have a full year of on-track development when it gets into the hands of customers in the third quarter of 2023.

    “We’re all very pleased with the results from the track testing program so far,” said Laura Wontrop Klauser, GM sports car racing program manager. “What’s even more encouraging is the correlation between simulator sessions and what we’re finding in the real-world track testing. It’s another level of validation that gives us confidence in the development process.”

    Driven by success

    The Z06 GT3.R is the latest in a line of championship-winning Corvette race cars that date back to the late 1990s and the introduction of Corvette Racing and the Corvette C5-R. Entering its 25th season, the program has scored 122 race victories around the world, including 113 in IMSA competition.

    Those wins have led to 14 Manufacturer’s and Driver’s championships and 15 Team titles. No team in IMSA history has won more races or championships than Corvette Racing in that span.

    The mid-engine C8.R — the predecessor of the Z06 GT3.R — has won 15 times around the world since its on-track debut in 2020. The 2023 season will be its second and last with a dual program in both the WeatherTech Championship and the FIA WEC. The latter will move from the current GTE regulations to the global GT3 platform beginning in 2024.

    Customer support and options

    Chevrolet and Corvette Racing is establishing a complete customer support program that will be available to teams running the Z06 GT3.R in North America and elsewhere around the world.

    An at-track parts truck will be a fixture at North American race events starting in 2024 with expansion to overseas support ramping up in the first two years of the Z06 GT3.R program.

    Corvette Racing will carry full spares packages of bodywork and internal components for its customer teams in supported championships. On the technical side, engineers will assist teams with items such as pre-race documentation, including chassis setup and data sharing plus post-event documentation, data analysis, and relative comparisons.

    Full engineering, race strategy and other items also are incremental support options for Corvette Z06 GT3.R customer teams.

    Customer integration doesn’t stop at the racetrack. Corvette Racing and GM Motorsports engineers will be available for remote engineering and operations support,

    “Supporting our customers is an area where we are putting in a lot of time and effort,” said Christie Bagne, GM assistant sports car racing program manager. “With this being our first customer GT3 offering, we have had meetings with many prospective customers to learn from their previous experiences, find what is important to them from a support standpoint and come up with a program that meets their expectations.”

  • Audi Activesphere Concept

    As the fourth model in the series, the Audi activesphere concept marks the culmination of sphere concept vehicles by the brand with the four rings. Following on from the Audi skysphere roadster in 2021, and both the Audi grandsphere saloon, and the Audi urbansphere space concept in April 2022, a four-door crossover coupé with an astonishingly versatile body design is now making its debut. Standing 4.98 meters long, the highly elegant car is more than a mere luxury-class sports car, with impressive ground clearance, and large 22-inch wheels announcing its off-road talent. The Sportback rear of the activesphere can turn into an open cargo bed (“active back”) at the touch of a button – perfect for carrying recreational equipment such as e-bikes or water and winter sports gear.

    By combining opposites in perfect synthesis, the Audi activesphere proves to be a versatile crosser of boundaries, with a drive system and suspension which make it equally adept both on and off the road. The steering wheel and pedals allow the driver to actively control the car, while also offering autonomous driving for a more relaxed time on the road. As a coupé that is as elegant as it is dynamic, it features classic proportions and lines, but in just a few seconds, the car transforms into a pickup for transporting top-class sports gear – there is even enough space for two e-bikes in the cargo bed.

    The concept car was conceived and designed at the Audi Design Studio in Malibu, just a stone’s throw away from the Pacific Coast Highway, the legendary coastal road. Studio manager Gael Buzyn and his team are the creative minds behind the project.

    With an electric drive and quick-charging technology from Audi’s PPE modular system, the Audi activesphere joins the sphere family of concept vehicles. With no local emissions, a range of over 372 miles, and extremely fast charging times thanks to 800-volt technology, it combines the sustainability, dynamics and long-distance capability of state-of-the-art electric vehicles.

    The autonomous chauffeuring capability on suitable terrain gives drivers and passengers a new level of freedom, which, thanks to the new display and operating technology, can be used in the activesphere in a variety of ways.

    The innovative operating concept, Audi Dimension, combines the physical and virtual worlds (i.e., mixed reality) by displaying digital content in the occupants’ fields of vision in real-time. High-tech headsets provide a view of the real environment and the route, while simultaneously displaying 3D content and interactive elements – individually configurable for drivers and passengers.

    This means all driver-relevant information, such as driving status and navigation, can be displayed. And in the interior, headset users can see control panels and other virtual displays in a tidy, minimalist design that remains hidden to the unaided eye. Mixed reality optics gives users the ability to interact precisely with these real, yet invisible, touch-sensitive zones, as the headsets display and carry out functions by reacting in real-time when users touch them.

    As a perfect all-rounder, the Audi activesphere concept is ideally suited for the high demands of a future-oriented generation of Audi customers – people for whom individual mobility and sustainability are not mutually exclusive. Also, owners expect their vehicle to deliver the brand’s typical aesthetics and dynamism to the highest degree, combined with future-oriented technology. For these customers, the Audi activesphere concept acts as a fascinating vision of crossing the boundaries between these dimensions.

    Robust elegance – exterior design

    Its dimensions 4.98 meters long, 2.07 meters wide, and 1.60 meters high – make the Audi activesphere concept a member of the premium segment. Typical of an electric car, the wheelbase is a generous 2.97 meters, providing maximum legroom for passengers. The front and rear overhangs are correspondingly short for a much more compact impression than the mere numbers indicate. From all perspectives, the Audi activesphere concept appears monolithic, as if from a single mould.

    Large 22-inch wheels and striking ground clearance, the flat cabin so typical of an Audi, and a dynamic roof arch give the car proportions that are distinctly reminiscent of a sports car. The 285/50 tires are voluminous enough for all types of terrain, and their contoured tread highlights the activesphere’s talent for off-road use. The wheels feature movable segments: when used off-road, they open for optimum ventilation, and they close on-road for optimum aerodynamics. The elegant, stylish camera mirrors on the two front doors are also designed specifically to minimize drag.

    The absence of hard edges results in smooth transitions between convex and concave surfaces throughout the body, as well as in soft shadows. Viewed from the side and rear, the rear wheel wells appear markedly horizontal, visualizing the dynamic potential of the concept vehicle.

    Glass surfaces make up a significant part of the vehicle’s body – and by no means just at head height. The front end of the activesphere features the brand face, the Singleframe, designed as a transparent glazing to afford passengers an unobstructed view through the large frunk of the road in front of the vehicle.

    There are also glass surfaces on the side in the lower door area, which seem to dissolve the boundary between the natural world and the interior when the activesphere is in off-road mode. The wide, curved tailgate features extensive glazing for optimum lighting, whilst even the roof itself is transparent, letting plenty of daylight into the interior.

    The exterior look specifically signals the vehicle’s off-road capability and, with its voluminous wheel arches, portrays the variable, electronically controlled quattro all-wheel drive. The Audi activesphere’s ground clearance is also variable; ideal for off-road use, it can be increased by 40 millimetres from the basic height of 208 millimetres, or lowered by the same amount when driving on-road. This benefits both the centre of gravity and aerodynamics when driving fast. The approach angle of the Audi activesphere – relevant for offroad drives – is 18.9 degrees, the departure angle 28.1 degrees.

    The variable ground clearance is reminiscent of an Audi model family that has attracted an enthusiastic, loyal fan base in the C and later B segments since 2000 – the Audi allroad. From the first generation, this family also features air-spring suspension with variable ground clearance and a visually offset floor assembly with underride guard elements as a significant design feature. Equally significant for all allroad models is the Avant package option.

    The activesphere marks the first time that a car with a Sportback hatchback incorporates the design elements and technical equipment of an allroad. For this reason, Audi calls the new body variant “active Sportback” in contrast to the allroad. Another new variation of the allroad theme – the Audi activesphere concept features dark, high-gloss paint finishes in Arctic Teal on the front and rear as well as underneath the doors in the side area, plus matte surfaces that visually juxtapose the floor assembly and cabin.

    Metal strips with slightly offset vertical studs arranged parallel to one another, are integrated here. These elements deploy when the ground clearance is increased, visualizing the off-road mode. As with its relative, the Audi grandsphere concept, the doors of the Audi activesphere, which are attached to the A- and C-pillars at the front and rear, open in opposite directions; there is no B-pillar here either. This innovation means the entire interior space opens up to passengers as soon as they get into the car.

    Right and left above the Singleframe, the narrow headlight units appear like focused eyes. The lighting units echo the logo of the brand with the four rings by enlarging and isolating the intersection of two rings to form a pupil – a new, unmistakable digital light signature that Audi first introduced in the Audi grandsphere: the Audi eye. In the activesphere, this signature is now varied – on-road and off-road driving modes each have their own variant. Daytime running lights and rear lights use ultra-fine micro-LED technology for even greater precision and contrast.

    Sportback and active back – variable rear architecture

    The Audi activesphere concept is a crosser of boundaries, which means it is a master of metamorphosis. Its rear section in particular reflects the active lifestyle of its customers and makes it possible to transport even bulky sports gear – without sacrificing the elegance and sportiness of the Sportback silhouette.

    If required, the transparent rear window slides are almost flush with the roof of the Audi activesphere. At the same time, the lower, vertical segment of the rear folds horizontally – this opens up an ample cargo bed called the active back that features brackets for e-bikes, for example. The lateral surfaces of the rear, the C-pillars, remain in position to maintain the activesphere’s dynamic silhouette, whilst a motorized bulkhead deploys from behind the rear seats in order to isolate the cabin from the elements.

    A ski rack is integrated in the center of the roof structure. Completely flush in nominal position and practically invisibly in the roof arch, it extends if required, so that skis can be safely attached and transported

    Prioritized interior – people-focused

    “Sphere” sets the tone: the common name component of the Audi skysphere, grandsphere, urbansphere, and now also the activesphere, alludes to the interior. Kilowatts and mph or lateral acceleration are no longer at the top of the design specifications for this new generation of cars.

    Instead, the starting point is the interior, the occupants’ living and experience sphere whilst travelling. Their needs and desires shape the space, the architecture, and the functions. With that reassessment, the design process itself changes. At the beginning of all discussions, the focus is directed toward the interior and its design. Only then are the package, proportions, and lines of the exterior design.

    Functional and minimalist – the interior
    The epitome of clarity and tidiness – this is the first impression for passengers as they climb into the interior of the Audi activesphere through the wide-open doors. Vertical and horizontal surfaces, along with right angles dominate the architecture of the space.

    The interior zones feature horizontal contrasting colouring and the reigning centrepiece is the seating surfaces and door and front panelling in warm lava red, which contrast with the dark exterior even when looking through the side windows. Above and below this central zone, dark colours (black, anthracite, and dark grey) also dominate.

    The four individual seats are suspended like extensions of the high, full-length centre console. Resting on the centre console, the upper end of the seat shell’s inner side is shaped horizontally as an armrest. The designers imagined the seat, back, and shoulder surfaces as three separate, circumferential shells; the visual appearance alone already promises good lateral support. They also appear so light as to float and thus maintain the balance between automotive function and the elegance of a lounge chair.

    When the Audi activesphere concept is driving in autonomous mode, the dashboard, steering wheel, and pedals disappear into an invisible position. Especially in the first row of seats, a wide space opens in front of the driver, which extends to the front end of the activesphere – and beyond. For a clear field of vision, the fully glazed Singleframe gives passengers an unobstructed view of the road in front. The dashboard itself works like a large soundbar as well as a smart, full-width air vent in both the deployed and stowed position. If the driver wants to take over the wheel, the dashboard, along with the steering wheel, swivels out from its flush position below the windshield – each driver can adjust the ideal ergonomic position individually.

    The MMI touchless controls in the doors are always accessible to the eye and the hand, for example, to control windows and seat adjustments. The architecture and sense of space in the Audi activesphere are largely determined by the high, full-length centre console. Of course, in electric cars, the console is no longer needed to hold a driveshaft, but instead offers space for storage and an onboard bar – either cooled or heated. The top cover is transparent, which provides a view of the bottle and glasses, but also visually integrates the voluminous console in the interior.

    Additionally, there is a console in the roof, directly above the centre console and reflecting its dimensions, where the four AR headsets for the mixed reality system are kept within easy reach for all passengers.

    Audi Dimension – traversing worlds

    Crossing boundaries is the strength of the Audi activesphere concept – this also applies to the interface between the car, the user, and the environment. For the first time, the new system combines physical reality and the digital sphere to create a new world: the Audi Dimension.

    The centrepiece of the new system is innovative mixed-reality headsets – available individually for each driver and passenger. Users also have access to a comprehensive digital ecosystem when inside the Audi activesphere.

    In the early days, VR goggles were limited to depicting a virtual reality without any real-world elements. However, technology evolved into augmented reality, whereby the real world is superimposed with virtual content. Mixed reality is now able to depict virtual content with spatial reference to the real world in three dimensions.

    There’s no doubt about it: in the future, mixed reality will take the possibilities of AR head-up displays to a whole new level in terms of flexibility, precision, and displayable content. The Audi activesphere concept is the first to use a pioneering generation of this technology, which in turn adds the dimension of interaction to the dimension of superimposed real and digital worlds.

    With unprecedented optical precision, the highest resolution, and excellent contrast, the system brings control surfaces and displays, invisible to the unaided eye, into the user’s field of vision while behind the steering wheel. In other words, the user can view virtual content, which is initially for information only. If the user focuses with his or her eyes on the information, thus signalling interest, the system displays more detailed information. The content becomes an active and interactive element as soon as the user is focused and engages, i.e., with gestures. The hand can then intuitively follow the user’s gaze to control car functions, while the user interface (the virtual display in the headset) reacts to changes in real-time like a conventional instrument.

    A particularly user-friendly feature, the virtual control moves towards the user so that he or she can interact comfortably with the user interface, regardless of sitting position. The tidy, spacious interior of the Audi activesphere no longer has to take a back seat to the function of keyboards and scale batteries, as was always the case in classic car cockpits. Only when users need an element does it appear, and it can be operated just as intuitively as it would in the real world.

    Important: The diverse functions of the car are now not organized in the typical way they are today in a car with screens and physical functions. But they are instead located logically directly in front of the elements they are related to. Just two examples: the AC control hoovers in front of the air vent, and the entertainment and sound interactive panel hoovers over the speaker.

    However, the possibilities of this technology are by no means exhausted. In off-road mode, for example, high-resolution 3D topography graphics can be projected onto the real landscape and information on navigation and the destination can be displayed. Traffic safety information, i.e., alerts for traffic jams or slippery roads, can also be used here.

    Depending on their needs and tasks, passengers and drivers are provided with very individual content in their respective mixed-reality headset. With the driver concentrating on steering while active behind the wheel, passengers can begin looking into and even preparing activities at the destination.

    Yet, at the same time, they can also control the temperature and air supply for their seating area with the air conditioning, as well as browse the music selection of the sound system, which each occupant can use individually.

    Because the headsets are precisely designed to match the geometry of the activesphere interior, they can even project virtual index cards onto the centre console to visualize access to web content. Since the sensors of the mixed reality headsets measure the interior with millimetre precision, virtual content can be superimposed according to personal requirements and even used for individual interaction.

    The connection between the headset users and the car, along with its ecosystem, offers countless possibilities, even when outside the car. For example, while navigation routes or vehicle maintenance can be prepared today from your living room on a laptop or tablet, in the future mixed reality technology and the headset will be the only hardware required. Conversely, the activesphere passenger can take his or her headset out of the car and onto the ski slope to help navigate the bike trail or to find the ideal descent when skiing downhill.

    Information about the car itself, the battery range, and the nearest charging stations can also be accessed inside and outside the vehicle. And when needed, there are also advance warnings such as of low tire pressure as well as a weather forecast function as a criterion for selecting a route.

    PPE – customized drive technology

    Due to its dimensions and performance level, the Audi activesphere concept lends itself to the use of Audi’s most innovative electric drive system: the Premium Platform Electric, or PPE for short.

    Like the related Audi grandsphere and Audi urbansphere concept cars, the activesphere concept draws on this modular system for series production. It is being developed under Audi’s leadership together with Porsche AG – the first Audi production vehicles based on PPE will be presented, one after the other, before the end of 2023. The PPE is designed exclusively for battery-electric drive systems and can therefore take full advantage of all the benefits of this technology – for the betterment of the car’s driving characteristics, economy, and package options.

    As a result, Audi can effectively expand the range of electric vehicles in its portfolio via the high-volume B- and C-segments. In addition, economies of scale will allow luxury-class technology and various model versions to be incorporated into a wide-ranging lineup of models unrivalled in the premium market.

    The PPE is the first platform designed to accommodate an unprecedented range of high-volume automobiles – including SUVs and CUVs with high ground clearance. This also includes cars with a flat silhouette that are part of Audi’s core product range, such as the Audi A6 series, whose external dimensions and wheelbase are almost identical to the Audi activesphere concept.

    The key element of the future PPE fleet is a battery module between the axles; in the Audi activesphere concept, it holds around 100kWh of energy. Using the entire car width between the axles makes it possible to achieve a relatively flat layout for the battery.

    Electric motors on the front and rear axles of the all-wheel drive Audi activesphere concept together deliver a total output of 325kW and a system torque of 720Nm of torque. The front and rear wheels are connected via a five-link axle. The concept car features Audi adaptive air suspension with adaptive dampers.

    Fast charging with 800 volts

    The heart of the drive technology in all future PPE models will be the 800-volt charging technology. Like the Audi e-tron GT quattro before it, this ensures that the battery can be charged with up to 270 kW in a very short time at fast-charging stations. This revolutionary technology will enter the high-volume mid-range and luxury segments with the PPE for the very first time.

    After all, PPE technology enables charging times that come close to a conventional stop to refuel a combustion engine car. Just 10 minutes is enough time to charge the battery to a level sufficient to power the car for more than 186 miles. And in less than 25 minutes, the 100kWh battery charges from 5 to 80 percent. Together with its range of well over 372 miles, the Audi activesphere thus positions itself as unconditionally suitable for long distances, when need be.

    In terms of dynamic qualities, the activesphere – as a genuine quattro and typical of an electric car – truly outshines its rivals with combustion engines. Thanks to its high torque right from the first revolution, it accelerates to 0-62mph in 4.9 seconds. The top speed can be variably fixed depending on whether the car is driving in on-road or off-road mode.

  • Porsche Vision 357 Concept

    75 years ago, on 8 June 1948, the 356 No. 1 Roadster became the first automobile bearing the name Porsche to receive its general operating permit – the birth of the sports car brand.

    Porsche is now embarking on its anniversary year with the Porsche Vision 357 and a reference to the Porsche 356 – the dream of Ferry Porsche of a sports car. As an homage to this, the design study brings the monolithic form into the present day. Liberated from the regulations that apply for implementation as a series model, the Style Porsche Team manifests potential expressions of the future design philosophy: one example is the consistent enhancement of the light signature, which is both progressive and visionary in the way it points towards the future. The fundamental concept is reflective of the interplay between tradition and innovation: what would the dream of a sports car of Ferry Porsche might look like today?

    356 as a basis to design DNA

    “We created a very special birthday present in the form of the Porsche Vision 357, one which uses the 356 as a basis to underscore the significance of our design DNA,” as Michael Mauer, Vice President Style Porsche, says. “The design study is an attempt to combine the past, present and future with coherency, featuring proportions that are reminiscent of its historical archetype and details that visualise the outlook for the future.”

    Built on the technology platform of the 368 kW (500 PS; 718 Cayman GT4 RS: Fuel consumption* combined (WLTP) 13.2 l/100 km, CO₂ emissions* combined (WLTP) 299 g/km) 718 Cayman GT4 RS, the Porsche Vision 357 represents outstanding sports car performance. The exterior design study is the highlight of the special exhibition “75 Years of Porsche sports cars” at the Volkswagen Group’s “DRIVE” Forum in Berlin, which opened with an exclusive evening event on 25 January 2023. The exhibition will be open to the public from 27 January 2023, and the Porsche Vision 357 will be on exhibit until mid-February. The design study will be presented at the South by Southwest in Austin from 10 March 2023 and at further international events over the course of the year.

    Design has been an elementary component of the Porsche legend since the very beginning. Visionary studies and concept cars form the foundation for Porsche’s unmistakable yet innovative design. “Thinking out loud about the future is one of the core missions of Style Porsche. Design studies are the pool of ideas that feed the design of tomorrow,” says Michael Mauer. “We are perpetually on the conceptual journey into the future of mobility. Time and again, the brand history serves as a source of inspiration. Taking a look back at our tradition with a future concept car is not as paradoxical as it might seem. Creative freedom is also important: this is where valuable ideas can emerge unfettered, ones that help us imagine our consistent design philosophy in innovative new directions.”

    Modern interpretation of the Porsche 356

    With its monolithic form, the narrow passenger cell with an abruptly sloping flyline and broad shoulders, the proportions of the Porsche Vision 357 evoke the lines of the 356. The windscreen sharply wraps around the A-pillars. As in its historic forebear, Porsche is pushing the boundaries of glass production: early 356s had a split windscreen with a bar down the middle. The split design was replaced in model year 1952 by a one-piece windscreen with a bend down the centre. The A-pillars of the Porsche Vision 357 are black and visually unite the side window surfaces into a single unit. This DLO (daylight opening) graphic resembles the visor of a helmet.

    The functional details are integrated and underpin the sculptural character of the vehicle. This includes the concealed door openers by the side windows and the tail lights, which sit behind a patterned array of points in the body itself. Another nod to the original is the grille pattern in the rear, in which the third brake light is integrated. Like all current Porsche models, the Vision 357 features a four-point light signet in front. The round design of the headlights is also a throwback to the characteristic lights of the 356. There are also parallels in the paintwork: the two-tone concept with Ice Grey Metallic and Grivola Grey Metallic in the nether regions of the front end hearkens back to the grey tones that were already popular in the 1950s.

    The wide track makes a bullish impression and enhances driving stability. The 20-inch wheels are made of magnesium and are equipped with aerodynamically advantageous carbon fibre hubcaps and central locks. Visually, they also recall a legendary Porsche wheel: the 356 A and 356 B with drum brakes had rims with the notably large bolt circle of 205 millimetres.

    Sporty details from the 718 Cayman GT4 RS

    The “75” anniversary logo adorns the doors and the front of the design study like a start number. And that is far from the only detail from the world of racing: there’s nothing behind the lower area of the front wheels, which allows better ventilation of the wheel arches. The wrap-around, jointless front bonnet is fastened with quick-release mechanisms. Threaded rods stabilise the large front spoiler. On the side sills, the Porsche designers employed natural fibre-reinforced plastic (NFRP) – as in the Porsche Mission R, the concept study for an all-electric GT racing car presented in 2021. The basis for the sustainable materials is provided by flax fibres from agriculture. Instead of traditional exterior mirrors, the design study is equipped with cameras on the edge of the roof. The visible tailpipe trim in the rear is made of a blueish-looking titanium, while the inside of the tailpipe is made of ceramic.

    Like the 718 Cayman GT4 RS, the Porsche Vision 357 has process air intakes positioned high behind the driver- and passenger-side windows, which designers adorned with comic-style “Air” decals. Like the “eFuel” logo on the tank cap on the right wing, the decals are reminiscent of motorsport decals. The naturally aspirated six-cylinder boxer engine theoretically draws 368 kW (500 PS) from four litres of displacement. The high-speed mid-engine would be designed for operation with e-fuels.

  • Polestar 2

    Polestar is giving the 5-door electric performance fastback, Polestar 2, a major update. For the 2024 model year, the premium compact EV features a new high-tech front end that reflects the design language premiered by Polestar 3, substantial performance increases with all-new electric motors, even more powerful batteries, sustainability improvements and, for the first time in a Polestar, rear-wheel drive.

    “Typically in the car industry, a facelift introduces superficial visual changes that often destroy the original intention of the car’s design theme. With the new model year Polestar 2, we rather went below the surface and upgraded substantial tech and mechanical components of the electric drivetrain. This is the best Polestar 2 yet, and with the updated front design with the new SmartZone, the best looking one, too,” says Polestar CEO, Thomas Ingenlath.

    Polestar 2 first entered the highly competitive premium EV market in 2019, blending Scandinavian design and excellent usability with fun driving characteristics and a dedication to sustainability. It was the first car in the world to feature an infotainment system powered by Android Automotive OS with Google built-in, an experience that continues to evolve and lead the industry. This unique mix of qualities quickly made Polestar 2 a customer favourite, available in 27 markets globally and having surpassed the 100,000 unit production mark in late 2022.

    High-tech design tweaks

    The SmartZone makes its debut on Polestar 2, signifying the shift from breathing to seeing and reflecting the high-tech nature of Polestar vehicles. Like on Polestar 3, the SmartZone hosts some of the vehicle’s most important active safety features, including the front facing camera and mid-range radar.

    The 20-inch forged alloy wheels in the Performance Pack have been updated to align Polestar 2 in its sportiest expression with that of Polestar 3.

    New motors, refined ride and rear-wheel drive

    Next-generation electric motors and inverters are fitted to all Polestar 2 variants, offering substantial increases in both efficiency and performance. Single-motor variants are now rear-wheel driven, powered by a newly developed permanent magnet motor and silicon carbide inverter. The new motor has a power output of up to 220 kW (increased from 170 kW) and is optimised for maximum efficiency and high torque (490 Nm, up from 330 Nm) to further increase the dynamic performance of the car. The 0-100 km/h sprint time has been reduced by as much as 1.2 seconds, down to 6.2 seconds.

    The dual-motor version now has a rear-drive bias that increases driving pleasure and performance thanks to a completely re-balanced drivetrain setup and torque-ratio. The new rear motor is the primary drive source, supported on the front axle by a new asynchronous motor. This enables higher total system output of 310 kW and 740 Nm (increased from the original 300 kW and 660 Nm), vastly improved traction, greater overall efficiency and higher performance – 0-100 km/h is achieved in 4.5 seconds. Supporting efficiency gains, the front motor can now be disengaged completely when not needed. When the driver wants more power, the front motor re-engages instantly and seamlessly.

    Up to 350 kW are available with the optional Performance Pack, and a 0-100 km/h sprint time as low as just 4.2 seconds. The increase in power, performance and driving enjoyment is also available to purchase as a downloadable over-the-air performance software upgrade for any eligible Long range Dual motor cars.

    “Changing from front- to rear-wheel drive in the single-motor variants, and re-calibrating the torque ratio in the dual-motor variant for an increased rear-wheel drive feel, elevates the Polestar 2 driving experience to a whole new level,” says Joakim Rydholm, Head of Chassis Development at Polestar. “The updated Polestar 2 is an even more playful and agile car, retaining its compactness and complete sense of control, while at the same time becoming more mature with added comfort.”

    Better range and quicker charging

    All Polestar 2 versions, in most markets, feature upgraded lithium-ion batteries, with a positive impact on efficiency and capacity as well as charging times. Long-range versions now feature 82 kWh batteries from CATL with 27 modules . The battery for standard-range versions retains a capacity of 69 kWh with 24 modules, and is now supplied by LG Chem.

    The updated batteries benefit from a redesigned battery disconnect unit, upgraded busbars and improved cell chemistry – enabling faster charging rates of up to 205 kW DC for long-range batteries and 135 kW for the standard-range battery.

    Range improvements are in effect for all versions due to the larger and improved batteries, and the optimisation of power delivery from the more powerful motors. The front motor disconnect function on the Long range Dual motor variant is particularly effective at maximising range, which is now up to 592 km WLTP, a significant increase of 105 km.

    The Standard range Single motor version is now capable of up to 518 km WLTP, an increase of 40 km, and the Long range Single motor variant can now achieve up to 635 km WLTP, an increase of 84 km.

    More performance with lower impact
    Despite the larger batteries, more powerful motors, longer range and more exciting performance, carbon emissions for versions with the new 82 kWh battery have come down by 1.1 tonnes to 5.9 tonnes per car (previously 7 tonnes per car), thanks to improved cell chemistry. A full life cycle assessment (LCA) is planned later in 2023.

    Revised standard equipment increases value
    Standard equipment in Polestar 2 has been revised to increase overall value as well as convenience. Driver Awareness features are now standard, including Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with steering support, Cross Traffic Alert with brake support, and Rear Collision Warning and Mitigation, along with the 360-degree surround view camera and automatic dimming exterior mirrors. The wireless phone charger is now also standard on all versions.

    The model year 2024 Polestar 2 is available to order now at Polestar.com in European markets, with more markets to follow. First deliveries are expected in the third quarter of 2023. Pricing starts from EUR 50,190.

    Variant Drivetrain Battery capacity Max charging speed, DC Preliminary range, WLTP Power Torque 0-100 km/h Price
    Long range Dual motor with Performance Pack AWD 82 kWh 205 kW Up to 592 km 350 kW
    476 hp    		 740 Nm
    546 lb-ft    		 4.2s EUR 64,690
    Long range Dual motor AWD 82 kWh 205 kW Up to 592 km 310 kW
    421 hp    		 740 Nm
    546 lb-ft    		 4.5s EUR 58,190
    Long range Single motor RWD 82 kWh 205 kW Up to 635 km 220 kW
    299 hp    		 490 Nm
    361 lb-ft    		 6.2s EUR 53,890
    Standard range Single motor RWD 69 kWh 135 kW Up to 518 km 200 kW
    272 hp    		 490 Nm
    361 lb-ft    		 6.4s EUR 50,190

  • BMW M3 CS

    Continuing the celebrated lineage of legendary CS models is the very special, limited-edition 2024 BMW M3 CS. Today, CS stands for “Competition Sport”; the designation given to exclusive BMW M models equally at home on road and track. More power, unique chassis calibration, and intelligent lightweight construction featuring carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) components deliver an exhilarating performance experience without sacrificing the functionality and everyday usability of the BMW M3.

    The 2024 BMW M3 CS teams a 543-hp inline-6 with an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission and the M xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system. Together, they hurl the M3 CS from 0-60 mph in only 3.2 seconds.

    The new BMW M3 CS will be built in limited numbers at BMW Group Plant Munich starting in March 2023.

    M TwinPower Turbo inline-6 with Motorsport experience.

    Under the lightweight CFRP hood of the 2024 BMW M3 CS is an upgraded version of the high-revving inline 6-cylinder engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology developed for the M3 and M4. This 3.0-liter unit also forms the basis of the engine that powers the BMW M4 GT3 and boasts a wealth of technological details derived directly from racing experience. Its crankcase has a sleeveless, closed-deck construction and is extremely rigid, making it suitable for very high combustion pressures. The forged lightweight crankshaft aids power build-up with its high torsional resistance and allows for high revs. The cylinder head has a 3D-printed core, allowing the coolant ducts to be routed in an optimum arrangement for temperature management that would be impossible to achieve using conventional metal casting methods. The oil supply system is designed to handle the specific challenges of track use, as is the cooling system.

    The S58 engine in the M3 CS receives a 40-hp increase over the unit in the M3 Competition, for a peak of 543 hp from 6,250 to the 7,200 rpm redline. This increase in power was achieved. primarily by raising the maximum boost pressure of the two mono-scroll turbochargers from 24.7 psi to 30.5 psi and making some model-specific changes to the engine management.

    Just as important as the power at the top of the rev range, the engine produces 479 lb-ft of torque from a low 2,750 rpm all the way to 5,950 rpm. Specially-designed engine mounts create an extremely rigid connection between the engine and the vehicle’s structure. Drivers will notice throttle inputs result in sharp engine response and direct transmission of power and torque to the drivetrain.

    All of these enhancements result in consistent power delivery throughout the rev range accompanied by a stirring soundtrack from the dual-branch exhaust system featuring electrically controlled flaps, a titanium rear silencer with weight-minimizing design, and two pairs of tailpipes finished in matte black.

    8-speed M Steptronic transmission, M xDrive, Active M Differential.

    The torque delivered by the engine in the new BMW M3 CS is distributed via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic to the M xDrive all-wheel drive system, which uses an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch in the transfer case to ensure smooth and fully variable distribution of power between the front and rear axles. The multi-plate clutch’s oil supply has been optimized to keep the system performing effectively under hard driving on the track. The rear-biased system paired with the fully variable Active M Differential rewards the driver with the signature M feeling when accelerating or carving through corners.

    The M Setup menu lets the driver switch from the default 4WD setting to 4WD Sport mode, which directs even more of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels. Drivers can also switch the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system off altogether and engage 2WD mode. By sending drive power solely to the rear wheels and suppressing any DSC intervention, skilled drivers are free to explore their limits and revel in a pure high performance driving experience.

    The engine, transmission, and M xDrive join forces to produce stunning acceleration times. The new BMW M3 CS takes just 3.2 seconds to achieve 60 mph. The M Driver’s Package is standard equipment, which allows an electronically limited top speed of 188 mph.

    Unique chassis technology tuning; available track-oriented tires.

    The chassis technology in the new BMW M3 CS has been tuned precisely to the engine’s performance characteristics and vehicle weight distribution, and the calibrations of the DSC system and M Dynamic Mode, also specific to the CS, have been purposefully geared to the demands of track driving.

    The specially tuned axle kinematics and unique wheel camber settings, dampers, and anti-roll bars serve to optimize steering precision, transmission of lateral control forces when cornering, spring and damping response, and wheel location. The electronically controlled dampers of the adaptive M suspension are specifically tuned for the M3 CS, as is the electromechanical M Servotronic steering with variable ratio and the integrated braking system.

    M Compound brakes with offered in a choice of red or black calipers are standard on the M3 CS. Drivers may also opt for M Carbon ceramic brakes with calipers in either red or gold. Also standard are forged M light-alloy wheels in an exclusive V-spoke design finished in Gold Bronze or matte black. Measuring 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear, those wheels may be fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires at no cost, measuring 275/35ZR19 at the front and 285/30ZR20 at the rear. The M3 CS is fitted as standard with conventional high-performance tires in those same sizes if the Cup 2s are not specified.

    Lightweight construction with extensive use of carbon fiber; improved body rigidity.

    Reducing weight where possible plays a major role in delivering the performance qualities and exclusive character of the new BMW M3 CS; therefore, the use of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) both inside and out is of key importance. Besides its carbon fiber roof, the M3 CS also uses this lightweight, high-tech material for the hood, front splitter, front air intakes, exterior mirror caps, rear diffuser, and rear spoiler. The center console, shift paddles, and interior trim strips are also made from CFRP. The standard M Carbon bucket seats reduce weight in the cabin and provide exceptional comfort on the road and support in high-performance driving sessions. Additionally, the titanium rear silencer shaves more than eight pounds off the weight of the exhaust system fitted to the new BMW M3 CS. In total, the various lightweight design measures save about 75 pounds compared to the  BMW  M3 Competition with M xDrive.

    Body rigidity is further increased by a package of high-precision strut braces for the engine compartment. The cast aluminum elements connecting the spring strut towers to the front end feature a weight-optimized geometry that has been precisely matched to the forces applied in various driving situations.

    Exclusive design features promise thrilling performance.

    The 2024 BMW M3 CS announces its sharper character with a series of individual design features. The optional BMW Individual Frozen Solid White metallic paint is exclusive to the M3 CS. Exposed carbon fiber surfaces for the roof, the two channels running the length of the hood, the front splitter, front air intakes, M exterior mirror caps, rear spoiler and rear apron combine with the black side skirts and M gills to provide a bold contrast to the unique paint finish. Brooklyn Grey metallic, Black Sapphire metallic, and BMW Individual Signal Green are also available.

    The CS sports a special frameless BMW kidney grille with pared-back styling reminiscent of the M4 GT3, and features red contour lines and an “M3 CS” badge on the upper of the two horizontal grille bars.

    The angular daytime running light elements illuminate in yellow rather than white during the unlock sequence as well as while driving, further evoking the look of GT racing cars.

    M Carbon bucket seats with exclusive surfaces and stitch patterns.

    Inside the new BMW M3 CS, an environment built around driving pleasure and maximum performance blends advanced digital technology and exclusive design elements. The driver and front passenger are provided standard M Carbon bucket seats. Fully electric and heated, they feature integral headrests with an illuminated “CS” badge. The use of CFRP in the structural elements of the seat cushion and backrest as well as the cut-outs in the side bolsters and below the head restraints are testimony to the seats’ weight-minimizing construction.

    The seats are upholstered in Merino leather and feature an exclusive design in black with Mugello red accents and distinctive contrast stitching. This bi-color theme is echoed in the rear compartment. The door panels are trimmed entirely in black leather in both the front and the rear, and red “CS” lettering adorns the lightweight center console. The new BMW M3 CS also includes M seat belts woven with the BMW M tricolor stripes, door sill plates bearing “M3 CS” badging, interior trim strips in carbon fiber, and an M Alcantara steering wheel with CFRP shift paddles and a red center marker.

    Standard M Drive Professional with M Traction Control and M Lap Timer.

    Also fitted as standard in the new BMW M3 CS is M Drive Professional. M Drive Professional bundles together the M Drift Analyzer and M Laptimer functions for evaluating and recording driving skills and performance at the track and includes M Traction Control, offering ten stages of intervention sensitivity: the ideal tools for pushing the CS hard on closed circuits.

    The M Mode button on the center console – also part of the M Drive Professional package – can be used to set the level of driver assistance system intervention and the content shown in the information display and standard Head-Up Display, with a choice of ROAD, SPORT and TRACK settings.

    BMW Curved Display with M-specific graphics.

    The new BMW M3 CS features the latest-generation BMW iDrive based on BMW Operating System 8, which includes the BMW Curved Display. This is formed by a 12.3-inch information display and a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches, which are housed together behind a curved glass surface. With its ergonomic driver-centric positioning, the BMW Curved Display makes the already intuitive touch control even more user-friendly.

    The information display’s crisp graphics and the M‑specific content create a focused, performance-led driving environment. All driving-related data as well as vehicle status and settings information are neatly arranged within it. The familiar M Shift Lights appear at the top of the information display, while the driving stability system, M xDrive, and traction control modes are all indicated at the lower edge. Special widgets containing information on the current vehicle setup, as well as tire pressure and temperature, can be added to the control display’s home screen.

    First-class comfort and convenience for everyday driving.

    The new BMW M3 CS provides customers a full complement of comfort features and driver assistance systems. The list of standard equipment includes Comfort Access, dual-zone automatic climate control, Harman Kardon Surround Sound System, Park Distance Control, Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning and the Speed Limit Info system.

    The customer need only choose the exterior color, wheel color, tires, brake material, and caliper color.

    Major standard equipment.

    • M Drive Professional
    • M Sport Differential
    • 8-Speed M Steptronic transmission
    • Adaptive M Suspension
    • Comfort Access keyless entry
    • M Compound Brakes with Red calipers
    • M Carbon bucket seats
    • Carbon Fiber interior trim
    • Dual Zone automatic climate control
    • Harman Kardon Surround Sound System
    • BMW Curved Display with Head-Up Display
    • M Alcantara steering wheel
    • M Carbon exterior package
    • M Driver’s Package
    • 19”/20” M Star Spoke wheels style 827M in Gold Bronze with performance non-runflat tires
    • M front strut brace
    • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
    • Active Blind Spot Detection
    • Frontal Collision Warning with City Collision Mitigation
    • Lane Departure Warning

    Optional equipment.

    • 19”/20” M Star Spoke wheels style 827M in Black
    • Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires
    • M Carbon Ceramic brakes with Gold or Red calipers
    • M Compound brakes with Black calipers

    Standard paints.

    • Black Sapphire metallic
    • Brooklyn Grey metallic

    Optional paints.

    • BMW Individual Frozen Solid White metallic
    • BMW Individual Signal Green

    Specifications.

                                                          BMW M3 CS
    Body
    No. of doors/seats 4 / 5
    Length / Width / Height (in) 188.8 / 75.5 / 56.6
    Wheelbase (in) 112.5
    Track, front / rear (in) 63.9 / 63.2
    Ground clearance (in) 4.8
    Turning circle (ft) 41.3
    Fuel tank capacity (gal) 15.6
    Engine oil capacity (qts) 7.4
    Curb weight (lbs) 3,915
    GVWR (lbs) 4,949
    Luggage capacity (cu ft) 16.9
    Engine
    Config. / no. cylinders / valves Inline / 6 / 24
    Engine technology M TwinPower Turbo technology with two mono-scroll turbochargers, indirect charge air cooling, high precision injection, VALVETRONIC fully variable valve control and Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing
    Capacity (cc) 2,993
    Stroke / bore (mm) 90.0 / 84.0
    Compression ratio (:1) 9.3
    Max output (hp @ rpm) 543 @ 6,250-7,200
    Max torque (lb-ft @ rpm) 479 @ 2,750-5,950
    Driving Dynamics and Safety
    Suspension, front Adaptive M suspension with double-joint spring strut axle in lightweight aluminum construction, M-specific kinematics and elastokinematics
    Suspension, rear Adaptive M suspension with five-link axle in lightweight aluminum / steel construction, rear-axle subframe with rigid bolted connection to the body, M-specific elastokinematics
    Brakes, front M Compound brakes, vented, with six-piston fixed calipers
    Brakes, rear M Compound brakes, vented, with single-piston floating calipers
    Driving stability systems DSC including ABS, ASC, and M Dynamic Mode (MDM), can be switched off, integrated wheel slip limitation, CBC (Cornering Brake Control), DBC (Dynamic Brake Control), Dry Braking function, Start-Off Assistant, Active M Differential
    Safety equipment Airbags for driver and passenger, side airbags for driver and passenger, head airbags, three-point inertia reel seatbelts, belt tensioner and belt force limiter, crash sensors, tire pressure indicator
    Steering Electric Power Steering (EPS) with M-specific Servotronic function and variable sport ratio
    Steering ratio overall (:1) 14.6
    Tires front / rear 275/35ZR19 100Y XL / 285/30ZR20 99Y XL
    Rims, front / rear (in) 9.5J x 19 forged light alloy / 10.5J x 20 forged light alloy
    Transmission
    Type 8-speed M STEPTRONIC transmission with Drivelogic
    Gear ratios I :1 5.000
    II :1 3.200
    III :1 2.143
    IV :1 1.720
    V :1 1.313
    VI :1 1.000
    VII :1 0.823
    VIII :1 0.640
    R :1 3.478
    Final Drive :1 3.154
    Performance
    Power to weight (lbs/hp) 7.2
    Output per liter (hp) 181
    Acceleration 0-60 mph (sec) 3.2
    Top Speed (mph) 188

  • Motorcycle Accidents in Cape Girardeau and the Need for an Attorney

    motorcycle-accidents-in-cape-girardeau-and-the-need-for-an-attorney

    Most people do not know that motorcycle accidents resulted in more than eighty-two thousand injuries and over five thousand five hundred in the US in 2020. During the same year, around sixteen hundred folks were injured and around a hundred and eighteen dead in Missouri, also from motorcycle-related accidents.

    Invariably, you will see a rise in demand for Cape Girardeau motorcycle accident lawyers since it is among the most sought-after Missouri cities with an alarming traffic-related accident rate. These professionals know the law well and use their wealth of experience to ensure resident victims get fairly compensated for their pain, trauma, and loss.

    New city residents will find the ensuing points highlighting motorcycle mishaps and the importance of accident lawyers in dealing with the aftermath.

    About motorcycle mishaps in Cape Girardeau, MO

    It is vital to realize that the injuries sustained from motorcycle crashes can often be severe and even fatal. In fact, statistics suggest that motorcyclists accounted for nearly fourteen percent of all traffic-related fatalities in the US. However, motorcycles account for only three percent of all registered vehicles across the country.

    Motorcycle accidents commonly occur on Missouri’s I-55 as residents take to the open road on their two-wheelers for a fast-paced joy ride. That being said, not all motorcyclists in the city are careless, with most of them following traffic rules and safety protocols. However, even responsible city drivers cannot avoid being hit by unruly truckers, car drivers, or commercial vehicle operators in the city. Here’s where an accident lawyer can come to their aid.

    Why they occur

    The causes of motorcycle crashes vary in Cape Girardeau, but they can be broken down into two categories: driver error and road conditions. Driver error is usually caused by poor judgment or lack of experience behind the wheel. Drunk driving is another common cause, as many still take to their vehicles despite having an impaired driving ability from too many drinks or illegal substance abuse.

    Other typical factors include terrible weather conditions, such as snowfall or rainstorms, that make it harder for cars or motorcycles to navigate safely through their respective environments while impeding visibility from other drivers.

    Road conditions also play into these types, including icy patches caused by frost heaves, which could cause motorists’ tires to lose traction off-road even if they are going slowly.

    What a lawyer can do

    A legal professional specializing in motorcycle accidents can help file a claim for compensation on behalf of victims to cover various losses and damages, such as sky-high medical bills, emotional trauma, lost wages, future medical costs, and more. They ensure to file the papers within the permissible timeframe, which is five years from the date of the crash in Missouri. Most local lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, taking only a small percentage of the settlement amount if they win the case.

    In some cases, they may get thousands or millions of dollars in settlement, depending on the case’s specifics. Also, they offer free consultations to help potential clients understand their options better and make informed choices.

    A reputable lawyer can also help in car accident cases

    Although it helps to hire expert Cape Girardeau motorcycle accident lawyers, know that a respected local firm can also assist in straightforward or complex car accident cases to get you compensation. For instance, they can get families of car crash victims a settlement of over a million dollars in wrongful death lawsuits or approximately $600,000 for those who get grievously injured in car-related traffic accidents in the city.

    It is crucial to note that car crashes in Cape Girardeau happen primarily on I-55, I-57, and Central Junction Intersection. Parking lot accidents and drunk driving mishaps are also common, making it essential for new city folks to drive cautiously. A good Cape Girardeau lawyer can help with other personal injuries, such as medical negligence, train collisions, dog bites, nursing home abuse, and premises liability.

    Finally, remember that the compensation for each will vary on different factors such as injury severity, collision intensity, medical expenses, financial damage, and more.

    Image Source: Google Images

  • VATH Mercedes-Benz E63s AMG 4-matic

    For over 45 years, VÄTH Automobiltechnik GmbH in Hösbach, Germany, has been known far beyond its borders as a specialist for innovative and exquisite refinement of the Mercedes-Benz and AMG brands. By applying the latest technologies, coupled with many years of experience, VÄTH has not only established a highly respected reputation, but also a sworn clientele.

    VÄTH has now taken on the Mercedes-Benz E63s AMG 4-matic and established a particularly special performance package for the noble vehicle – which already has an impressive 612 hp in the basic version. By means of VÄTH turbochargers, large intercooler and reworking of the intake system, as well as the exhaust system from the downpipes to the muffler system, VÄTH achieved a substantial increase in power to 879 hp for the E63s – electronically limited to 1,100 Nm.

    With this extensive update, VÄTH not only achieved a fabulous increase in power, but also an impressive sound experience – candy for the eyes and ears, so to speak!

    It should not go unmentioned that a transmission oil cooler has also been installed. This catapults the luxury sedan from 0-100 km/h in just 3.0 seconds and delivers a top speed of 345 km/h (locked).

    The standard 20 inch rims have been replaced by exclusive VÄTH wheels 3-piece in 21 inch with forged star. Michelin tires all around in 265mm width on the front axle and 295mm on the rear axle provide pleasant comfort.

    VÄTH optimized the chassis by means of a minimal lowering of 20mm and special underbody struts ensure additional stiffening of the body. All in all, this achieves not only a rich, but also safe road holding.

    The exterior has been subtly and tastefully enhanced by an aesthetic VÄTH front lip and roof edge spoiler.

  • Mercedes-Benz CLA

    With numerous innovations and upgraded standard equipment, Mercedes-Benz is strengthening the position of the CLA Coupé and CLA Shooting Brake as trendsetters in the compact segment. The newly shaped front apron, the revised radiator grille with star pattern and the new rear diffuser sharpen the sporty character. Added to this are the modernised graphics in the LED High Performance headlamps, which are standard for the first time, and the LED rear lights. The new paint colours hyper blue (exclusive to the CLA models) and spectral blue, as well as three additional wheel-rim designs in sizes up to 19 inches, extend the choice for individualisation. As standard, the new CLA Coupé and CLA Shooting Brake models are fitted with 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels in vanadium silver or a five-double-spoke design in high-gloss black with high-sheen finish.

    Exclusive interior with high-tech look, fresh colours and new trims

    The highlight of the interior is the free-standing double screen. It now includes a 7-inch and a 10.25-inch display as standard. Two 10.25-inch displays with a wide-screen look are optionally available. They offer a holistic high-tech experience and create an exceptionally open spatial architecture. The steering wheel of the current generation is upholstered in leather Nappa as standard. The new trim elements in a dark carbon look, open-pore brown lime wood or brown MICROCUT microfibre (AMG Line only) further enhance the interior. A heated steering wheel rim is also available in the AMG Line for the first time.

    The comfort seats are also part of the new high-quality standard in the CLA Coupé and CLA Shooting Brake. They are fitted as standard with a combination of ARTICO man-made leather and three-dimensionally embossed fabric in black. They are also optionally available in trendy sage grey. The Progressive equipment line offers three interior colours: black, macchiato beige and sage grey. In the AMG Line, the standard seat upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather/microfibre MICROCUT is now also available in bahia brown. A total of five upholstery colours are available in the AMG Line: black, bahia brown, sage grey, titanium grey pearl/black and, for the first time, red pepper/black.

    The fabric cover of the comfort seat consists of 100% recycled materials. In the ARTICO/MICROCUT seat cover, this proportion is 65% in the seat mirror and 85% in the bottom fabric. The use of recycled materials is an important measure on the way to CO2 neutrality. As early as the end of this decade, Mercedes-Benz aims to at least halve the CO2 emissions per passenger car in the new vehicle fleet over the entire life cycle compared to 2020. From 2039 onwards, the passenger car and van fleet aims to be CO2-neutral with offsets across the entire automotive value chain.

    Significantly upgraded equipment and simplified offer logic

    Mercedes-Benz has significantly upgraded the standard equipment and tailored the offer logic even more precisely to specific customer wishes. For example, the basic equipment of the two new CLA models already includes Highbeam Assist, a reversing camera and the USB package in addition to the leather steering wheel and LED front headlamps. From vehicles equipped with the Progressive trim line onwards, customers also receive the Parking Package and Mirror Package as well as the EASY-PACK tailgate for the CLA Shooting Brake.

    Other functional equipment is bundled into packages based on real customer behaviour. In terms of design scopes such as colours, upholstery, trims and wheels, customers can configure vehicles as individually as possible.

    Latest generation MBUX and Burmester® sound system with Dolby Atmos

    The CLA Coupé and CLA Shooting Brake feature the latest generation of MBUX – with newly designed display styles: “Classic” provides all relevant driver information, “Sporty” impresses with the dynamic rev counter and “Discreet” is limited to the most essential items. Together with the three modes (Navigation, Assistance, Service) and seven colour worlds, the instrument cluster and central display can be individualised according to the driver’s wishes and the situation. The central display offers all previous functions such as navigation, media, phone, vehicle, etc. and can be operated conveniently as a touchscreen.

    The revised telematics system impresses with a new design and improved performance. A new feature is connectivity with smartphones via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto Wireless. For further connectivity, the CLA Coupé and CLA Shooting Brake have an additional USB-C port and increased USB charging capacity. All USB ports are now illuminated.

    With the activation of online services in the Mercedes me app, the Hey Mercedes voice assistant becomes even more capable of dialogue and learning. Certain actions can also be triggered without saying ”Hey Mercedes”. The MBUX voice assistant can also explain vehicle functions. Initially available in Germany, the new audio travel guide “Tourguide” adds an exciting feature to travel information as part of the “MBUX Voice Assistant” from Mercedes me. When the “Hey Mercedes, start Tourguide” voice command is given, the MBUX infotainment system reads out interesting facts about places of interest along the route. The system responds to the approximately 3,400 brown informational signs along the German motorways.

    In conjunction with the latest MBUX generation, the optional Burmester® surround sound system now features the immersive Dolby Atmos audio experience. It gives music more space, clarity and depth. Dolby Atmos allows discrete audio elements or objects to be placed in a three-dimensional sound field and adapted to any playback environment.

    The new CLA models also improve in terms of safety assistance. With the upgraded Driver Assistance Package, for example, Lane Keeping Assist is controlled much more comfortably by the active steering control. The next generation of the Parking Package supports longitudinal parking and offers 360-degree visualisation for camera-assisted parking using 3D images.

    Electrified and powerful drives

    The petrol engines are electrified throughout and include four-cylinder units with a 7- or 8-speed DCT automatic transmission as standard. As mild hybrids, the engines are equipped with an additional 48-volt on-board power supply that supports agility at start-up with 10 kW more power. The new belt-driven starter-generator noticeably improves customer comfort and experience. For example, it enables low-vibration and low-noise engine starting as well as coasting with the combustion engine switched off. During braking and acceleration, the starter-generator recuperates and thus supplies the 12-volt on-board network and the 48-volt battery with electrical energy. This can support the combustion engine during acceleration. The new ECO Score 3.0 motivates drivers to adopt fuel-saving behaviour through a differentiated evaluation of the various driving phases.

    More power for plug-in hybrids
    The improved high-voltage battery offers a higher usable energy content, resulting in greater electric range. The power of the electric motor has increased by 5 kW and now reaches a powertrain output of 80 kW. For charging, three options are still available: in addition to the 3.7 kW standard, the battery can now also be charged with alternating current and up to 11 kW instead of the previous 7.4 kW. The new CLA models also continue to offer the option of charging the battery with direct current, and up to 22 kW. A DC charge from 10% to 80% takes around 25 minutes, providing a versatile charging experience suitable for everyday use.

    CLA 250 e Coupé CLA 250 e Shooting Brake
    Displacement cc 1,332 1,332
    Rated output, petrol engine kW/hp 120/163 120/163
    at rpm 5,500 5,500
    Rated torque, petrol engine Nm 270 270
    Rated power, electric motor kW/hp 80/109 80/109
    Rated torque, electric motor Nm 300 300
    System output kW/hp 160/218 160/218
    System torque Nm 450 450
    Rated battery capacity kWh 15.6 15.6
    Combined fuel consumption, weighted (WLTP provisional) l/100 km 1.1-0.8 1.1-0.8
    Combined CO2 emissions, weighted (WLTP provisional) g/km 24-18 26-19
    Combined power consumption, weighted
    (WLTP provisional)    		 kWh/100 km 16.9-14.9 17.2-15.1
    Electric range (EAER) (WLTP provisional) km 71-82 68-80
    Acceleration 0-100 km/h s 7.6 7.7
    Top speed km/h 229 226
    CLA 180 Coupé CLA 200 Coupé CLA 220 4MATIC Coupé CLA 250 4MATIC Coupé
    Displacement cc 1,332 1,332 1,991 1,991
    Rated output kW/hp 100/136 120/163 140/190 165/224
    at rpm 5,500 5,500 5,500 5,500
    Add. output (boost effect) kW/hp 10/14 10/14 10/14 10/14
    Rated torque Nm 230 270 300 350
    Combined fuel consumption
    (WLTP provisional)    		 l/100 km 6.5-5.9 6.5-5.9 7.6-6.9 7.5-6.9
    Combined CO2 emissions
    (WLTP provisional)    		 g/km 147-133 147-133 172-156 172-156
    Acceleration 0-100 km/h s 9.4 8.4 7.3 6.4
    Top speed km/h 216 229 237 250
    CLA 180 d Coupé CLA 200 d Coupé CLA 220 d Coupé
    Displacement cc 1,950 1,950 1,950
    Rated output kW/hp 85/116 110/150 140/190
    at rpm 3,400 3,400 3,800
    Add. Output (boost effect) kW/hp 10/14 10/14 10/14
    Rated torque Nm 280 320 400
    Combined fuel consumption
    (WLTP provisional)    		 l/100 km 5.5-5.1 5.4-4.9 5.5-5.0
    Combined CO2 emissions
    (WLTP provisional)    		 g/km 145-133 142-129 143-130
    Acceleration 0-100 km/h s 10.0 8.5 7.3
    Top speed km/h 205 226 244
    CLA 180
    Shooting Brake    		 CLA 200
    Shooting Brake    		 CLA 250 4MATIC
    Shooting Brake
    Displacement cc 1,332 1,332 1,991
    Rated output kW/hp 100/136 120/163 165/224
    at rpm 5,500 5,500 5,500
    Add. output (boost effect) kW/hp 10/14 10/14 10/14
    Rated torque Nm 230 270 350
    Combined fuel consumption
    (WLTP provisional)    		 l/100 km 6.6-6.0 6.6-6.0 7.8-7.0
    Combined CO2 emissions
    (WLTP provisional)    		 g/km 151-136 151-136 176-160
    Acceleration 0-100 km/h s 9.6 8.6 6.5
    Top speed km/h 215 226 250
    CLA 180 d
    Shooting Brake    		 CLA 200 d
    Shooting Brake    		 CLA 220 d
    Shooting Brake
    Displacement cc 1,950 1,950 1,950
    Rated output kW/hp 85/116 110/150 140/190
    at rpm 3,400 3,400 3,800
    Add. output (boost effect) kW/hp 10/14 10/14 10/14
    Rated torque Nm 280 320 400
    Combined fuel consumption
    (WLTP provisional)    		 l/100 km 5.7-5.2 5.6-5.0 5.6-5.1
    Combined CO2 emissions
    (WLTP provisional)    		 g/km 149-135 147-132 147-133
    Acceleration 0-100 km/h s 10.1 8.6 7.4
    Top speed km/h 203 221 237

  • Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake

    Numerous updates make the CLA and CLA Shooting Brake from Mercedes-AMG even more desirable. The new exterior design is particularly striking on the CLA 35 4MATIC Coupé (WLTP preliminary values: fuel consumption combined 8.5-8.1 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined 193-185 g/km) and CLA 35 4MATIC Shooting Brake (WLTP preliminary values: fuel consumption combined 8.7-8.3 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined 197-189 g/km). Both entry-level models have been given an AMG-specific radiator grille with vertical slats, a reshaped front apron and a round badge with the AMG emblem that reinforces the brand affiliation. The revised design of the inside of the headlights with LED or MULTIBEAM LED technology and the LED taillights also characterise the two top models CLA 45 S 4MATIC+ Coupé (WLTP preliminary values: fuel consumption combined 9.0-8.7 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined 205-196 g/km) and CLA 45 S 4MATIC+ Shooting Brake (fuel consumption combined 9.2-8.8 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined 209-201 g/km).

    New alloy wheels for all models

    There are three new light-alloy wheels for the 35 models: standard 10-spoke, 18-inch wheels in black with high-gloss turned surfaces and optional 19-inch wheels with a five-twin-spoke design in matte black with high-gloss turned surfaces or in matte black with a high-gloss turned rim flange. New wheels for the two 45 S versions include standard 19-inch wheels with a five-twin-spoke design in matte black with high-gloss turned surfaces or optional 19-inch wheels in a five-twin-spoke design in matte black with a high-gloss turned rim flange.

    Fresh colours for the seat covers

    In the interior, those interested will discover new upholstery covers for the standard sports seats or the optional AMG Performance seats. The combination of ARTICO man-made leather with MICROCUT microfibre can also be ordered in bahia brown. Sage grey/black is the new colour for ARTICO man-made leather. And red pepper/black is available for the first time for the leather seat covers. For the trim elements, open-pore lime wood in brown completes the optional selection.

    The Mercedes-AMG CLA models offer the new AMG Performance steering wheel with double-spoke design and seamlessly integrated buttons as standard. The AMG steering wheel buttons impress with brilliant displays and intuitive operating logic. These allow for important driving functions and all drive programmes to be controlled without taking your hands off the steering wheel.

    The new Mercedes-AMG CLA models also benefit from the latest MBUX generation: more performance and the AMG-specific screen design make the brand experience tangible.

    35 models technically upgraded

    The 35 models are equipped with a 48-volt electrical system and a belt-driven starter-generator. The second-generation starter-generator acts as a mild hybrid, providing a temporary power boost of 10 kW (14 hp) as well as functions such as coasting and recuperation for greater efficiency. The 48-volt technology also increases comfort, as the transitions of the start-stop and coasting functions are almost imperceptible. The powerful and agile 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine produces 225 kW (306 hp), which is variably distributed to all four wheels via the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G transmission and AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The sporty performance (acceleration 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds) is combined with a wide range of driving experiences – from very sporty to long-distance comfort. The new front radiator improves temperature management at the limit.

    AMG Street Style Edition for the 45 models

    A special limited edition is available for the CLA 45 S 4MATIC+ Coupé and Shooting Brake: the AMG Street Style Edition. With its MANUFAKTUR mountain grey magno paintwork and side foiling with the AMG logo and AMG pattern in the chequered-flag design, it emphasises the sporty appearance. The same applies to the colour accents in fluorescent orange. The edition rolls on 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in a five-twin-spoke design in matte black with a gloss-turned rim flange. Optionally, customers can order the Street Style Edition with 19-inch AMG forged wheels in a cross-spoke design, painted matte black and with a high-sheen turned rim flange. The red-painted brake callipers form an attractive contrast to both wheels. Other exterior elements include the AMG Aerodynamics package, the AMG Night package I and II and the AMG fuel-filler cap.

    The interior of the AMG Street Style Edition also has a distinctive design: The AMG Performance seat in black MICROCUT microfibre is adorned with seams and highlights in bright orange. The “CLA 45 S” label, also in orange, carries the brand emblem over to the interior. The AMG Performance steering wheel in MICROCUT leather/microfibre and the AMG trim elements in aluminium (with the same pattern as the exterior foiling) add further accents to the interior. Attention to detail is also demonstrated by the instrument panel with contrasting orange stitching and the AMG door-sill trims with “MG” lettering, a black interchangeable cover and Edition-specific lighting in red. AMG floor mats with “Street Style Edition” lettering and orange stitching complete the high-quality interior design.

    With an output of 310 kW (421 hp), the Coupé and Shooting Brake are powerfully motorised. The compact sports cars accelerate from a standstill to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds. The top speed is limited to 270 km/h. In addition to the pure performance figures, the AMG 2.0-litre turbo engine impresses with its spontaneous response. The fully variable all-wheel drive with AMG TORQUE CONTROL makes a significant contribution to the dynamic driving experience. The rear-axle transmission contains two electronically controlled multi-plate clutches, each of which is connected to a driveshaft on the rear axle. This allows the drive power to be distributed variably not only between the front and rear axles, but also wheel-selectively between the left and right rear wheels.

    The data at a glance

      Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 4MATIC Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S 4MATIC+
    Engine 2.0-litre inline four with exhaust-gas turbocharger 2.0-litre inline four with twin-scroll exhaust turbocharger mounted on roller bearings
    Displacement cc 1,991 1,991
    Rated output kW/hp 225/306 310/421
    at rpm 5,800 6,750
    Rated torque Nm 400 500
    at rpm 3,000-4,000 5,000-5,250
    Drive AMG Performance 4MATIC variable all-wheel drive AMG Performance 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive with AMG TORQUE CONTROL
    Transmission AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G dual-clutch transmission AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G dual-clutch transmission
    Fuel consumption combined
    (WLTP provisional)    		 l/100 km 8.5-8.1 9.0-8.7
    CO2 emissions combined
    (WLTP provisional)5    		 g/km 193-185 205-196
    Acceleration 0-100 km/h s 4.9 4.1
    Top speed km/h 250 270
      Mercedes-AMG
    CLA 35 4MATIC  Shooting Brake    		 Mercedes-AMG
    CLA 45 S 4MATIC+  Shooting Brake
    Engine 2.0-litre inline four with exhaust-gas turbocharger 2.0-litre inline four with twin-scroll exhaust turbocharger mounted on roller bearings
    Displacement cm3 1,991 1,991
    Rated output kW/PS 225/306 310/421
    at 1/min 5,800 6,750
    Rated torque Nm 400 500
    at 1/min 3,000-4,000 5,000-5,250
    Drive AMG Performance 4MATIC variable all-wheel drive AMG Performance 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive with AMG TORQUE CONTROL
    Transmission AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G dual-clutch transmission AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G dual-clutch transmission
    Fuel consumption combined
    (WLTP provisional)5    		 l/100 km 8.7-8.3 9.2-8.8
    CO2 emissions combined
    (WLTP provisional)5    		 g/km 197-189 209-201
    Acceleration 0-100 km/h s 4.9 4.1
    Top speed km/h 250 270

  • Aston Martin DBS770 Ultimate

    Long associated with cars of exquisite style and intoxicating performance, the DBS nameplate has been attached to some of Aston Martin’s finest flagships. Since 2018 the DBS has stood at the pinnacle of Aston Martin’s series production range; a Twin-Turbo V12 powerhouse blessed with ferocious performance and unmatched style. With production of this current generation DBS nearing its end, Aston Martin is proud to introduce a DBS to surpass all others; the DBS 770 Ultimate.

    As its name suggests, the DBS 770 Ultimate is an emphatic last word. The most powerful production Aston Martin ever, and the fastest and most powerful DBS to date, extensive design and engineering enhancements ensure the DBS 770 Ultimate is an unforgettable and highly-collectible celebration of Aston Martin’s flagship Super GT. Available in both Coupe and Volante form, DBS770 Ultimate will be built in strictly limited numbers – 300 Coupes and 199 Volantes – with all examples sold ahead of release.

    DBS 770 Ultimate features a ferocious iteration of Aston Martin’s quad-cam 60-deg 5.2-litre V12 engine. Now developing 770PS at 6500rpm and a colossal 900Nm of torque from just 1800rpm to 5000rpm, propelling DBS 770 Ultimate to a top speed of 211mph, this magnificent engine benefits from modified air and ignition pathways together with a 7% increase in maximum turbo boost pressure. Precise tuning of power and torque curves gives the driver a sense of boundless performance, with an intoxicating blend of exceptional response, outstanding in-gear acceleration and the authentic V12 soundtrack.

    Power is fed through a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission and mechanical Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) mounted at the rear of the car. In addition, DBS 770 Ultimate receives a unique transmission calibration to enhance shift speeds and driver interaction, contributing to a truly connected driving experience. Such is the inherent capability of Aston Martin’s Carbon Ceramic Braking (CCB) system that the DBS 770 Ultimate uses the same 410mm x 38mm front discs and 360mm x 32mm rear as fitted to the DBS.

    To further improve the direct nature of the steering response and increase the level of detailed feedback, DBS 770 Ultimate introduces a new solid mounted steering column, allowing the driver to enjoy a more precise connection with the road ahead, feeling what the front tyres are doing with utmost confidence and accurately gauge available grip.

    Integral to achieving the engaging character and heightened steering feel of the DBS 770 Ultimate, front end lateral stiffness has been improved by 25% to provide maximum performance feel and response. This increase has been achieved with an enhanced front cross member, and thicker rear undertray, which also increases global torsional stiffness by 3% for perfectly balanced driving dynamics.

    Enhancements have also been made to the Adaptive Damping System (ADS), DBS 770 Ultimate receiving unique damper calibration and software tune focusing on control and composure without compromise to ride quality. By enhancing driver connection and preserving the DBS’ unmistakable continent crossing character, the DBS 770 Ultimate elevates Aston Martin’s exemplary Super GT to even greater heights.

    Just as the DBS 770 Ultimate has been mechanically honed, its appearance has too been amplified to present an assertive design and uncompromisingly unique aesthetic befitting of a final edition model created to celebrate the end of an era.

    Being an Aston Martin, this enhanced form also had to possess an authentic level of function. Both to provide increased air flow to the radiators, enhancing thermal management and give greater visual road presence. Drawing increased air flow through the engine radiators, the clamshell bonnet features a dramatic ‘horse-shoe’ engine vent and a new front splitter integrates two new outboard vents. Together these serve to enhance cooling and echo the design signatures of previous DBS and V12 engine models.

    Further detail design changes for DBS 770 Ultimate include 2×2 Twill Carbon Fibre Cantrail, Windscreen Surround, Mirror Caps, and Fender Louvre as standard. A new carbon fibre sill element visually lowers the side profile towards the rear wheel, creating a poised stance that accentuates the DBS’s muscular physique. A unique design of rear diffuser maintains aerodynamic balance from front to rear and ensures the DBS 770 Ultimate is as unmistakable from the rear as it is from the front.

    DBS 770 Ultimate is further distinguished by a new and unique 21” wheel style available in three finishes. Taking inspiration from the formidable Aston Martin Valkyrie and Victor, this new 21” multi-spoke design is available in full Satin Silver finish for a bright jewellery appearance, full Satin Black finish for a contemporary and sporting appearance or optional Satin Black with Diamond Turned finish to give a darker, yet sophisticated appearance of the car. Pirelli P Zero high performance tyres – 265/35 R21 front and 305/30 R21 at the rear – are standard fitment on all rims.

    Inside, the DBS 770 Ultimate delights with a dazzling array of fresh design treatments that set it apart, while retaining the instantly recognisable cabin environment of the current DBS. Signifying its halo positioning, DBS 770 Ultimate comes with Sports Plus Seats trimmed in full semi-aniline leather and Alcantara, featuring a ‘fluted’ quilt and perforation pattern as standard. Aston Martin’s performance seat can also be selected as an option. A bespoke trim split has been introduced, with contrast colours linked to welt and stitching, along with a tailor-made strap and buckle badge featuring a laser etched DBS 770 Ultimate logo found on the centre arm rest. Carbon Fibre Gearshift paddles are also fitted as standard.

    Finally, DBS 770 Ultimate is fitted with a unique set of sill plaques showcasing the Aston Martin Wings, DBS 770 Ultimate logo and Limited-Edition numbering signifying the vehicle as one of 300 Coupes or 199 Volantes.

    Like all Aston Martins, the scope for true one-of-a-kind personal specification is virtually limitless. A diverse range of Q by Aston Martin bespoke options are available on DBS 770 Ultimate, including Q liveries with assorted graphics options, painted wheels to match body or graphics colours, tinted carbon fibre and woven leather seat inserts, trim inlays and a carbon fibre steering wheel.

    Aston Martin Chief Technology Officer, Roberto Fedeli, said of the DBS 770 Ultimate: “When an iconic model generation reaches the end of production it is important to mark the occasion with something special. In the case of the DBS 770 Ultimate, we have spared nothing in ensuring the final version of our current series production flagship is the best-ever in every respect. Not only is it the fastest and most powerful DBS in our history, thanks to a comprehensive suite of improvements to the transmission, steering, suspension, and underbody structure; it is also the best to drive.”

    Marek Reichman, Aston Martin Chief Creative Officer, adds: “DBS has always sat at the pinnacle of the Aston Martin production model line-up. And now we’re infusing DBS 770 Ultimate with even more… more power, more performance purity and all with more sophistication, more taste and in the most considered manner.  Something so raw, and yet so beautiful it’s almost intimidating to look at. It’s through this design approach that we came up with the shapes – starting with the amped-up front end – and from there everything else flows in design balance with the performance upgrades.”

    Production of the DBS 770 Ultimate is due to commence in Q1 of 2023, with first deliveries scheduled to begin during Q3 2023.

  • Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray

    Exactly 70 years after the Corvette debuted at Motorama in New York City, Chevrolet has returned to introduce the first-ever electrified Corvette with all-wheel-drive and a powerful 6.2L LT2 Small Block V-8, the 2024 E-Ray.

    “In 1953, the enthusiastic reaction to the Chevrolet Corvette concept kicked off seven decades of passion, performance and American ingenuity,” said Mark Reuss, General Motors president. “E-Ray, as the first electrified, all-wheel-drive Corvette, takes it a step further and expands the promise of what Corvette can deliver.”

    Developed to be the Corvette owners can arrive in anywhere, no matter the season, the new E-Ray — available in removeable roof coupe and hardtop convertible models — uses electrification to enhance the driving experience with intense straight-line performance, all-weather confidence and sure-footed grand touring capabilities that can only be achieved with eAWD.

    E-Ray is also the only sports car pairing two separate propulsion systems to provide naturally aspirated V-8 power with electrified responsiveness powered by eAWD, making it one like none.

    “Corvette has been a halo for Chevrolet since 1953,” said Scott Bell, vice president of Chevrolet. “E-Ray’s unprecedented blend of confidence, luxury performance, sophistication and style provides a new reason for more people to experience Corvette.”

    The E-Ray is the quickest production Corvette in history, clocking a 2.5-second 0-60 mph time before breezing through the quarter-mile in 10.5 seconds.

    “Corvettes must provide an exhilarating driving experience on backroads and tracks, and E-Ray nails it,” said Tadge Juechter, executive chief engineer, Corvette. “The electrification technology enhances the feeling of control in all conditions, adding an unexpected degree of composure.”

    A near immediate feeling of thrust from low-end torque is core to the Corvette driving experience, and the E-Ray packs plenty of it. Power comes from the 6.2L LT2 Small Block V-8, putting 495 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque to the rear axle. It is complemented by an electric motor that channels an additional 160 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque through the front wheels via a 1.9 kWh battery pack, which is located between the seats. In total, E-Ray produces a combined 655 horsepower from both the electric motor and Small Block V-8.

    Creating its own lane

    E-Ray’s intelligent eAWD system is constantly learning the road surface, seamlessly adapting to meet traction conditions and driver needs. During spirited driving and in low traction environments, E-Ray’s eAWD system applies additional power to the front wheels, helping to enhance vehicle stability.

    There is no need for plug-in charging for the E-Ray’s battery system. The battery is charged via regenerative energy from coasting and braking, as well as during normal driving.

    Additional features and technologies of the all-new E-Ray include:

    • Stealth Mode, an electric drive mode for the street, up to 45 mph
    • New lightweight lithium-ion 12-volt battery that supports the LT2 V-8 engine’s stop/start functionality
    • Standard Brembo Carbon Ceramic brake system for optimal braking performance
    • Standard Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 with three distinct suspension settings
    • Staggered 20- and 21-inch wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport all-season tires. Michelin Pilot Sport 4S summer tires are available with an optional performance package
    • Low, wide stance with crafted body styling that is 3.6 inches wider overall than Stingray
    • Visceral sound experience that embodies the car’s dominating presence. The electric front motor works in harmony with the LT2 engine to create an invigorating sound
    • Enhanced roster of driver assistance technologies (shared with all 2024 Corvette models), including Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert and Automatic Emergency Braking.

    Electrified propulsion details

    The 2024 Corvette E-Ray’s electrified propulsion system provides exhilarating acceleration to power out of corners and effortlessly complete passing maneuvers. It can also provide limited all-electric propulsion at the driver’s discretion upon startup.

    E-Ray’s standard Active Fuel Management system uses the electric motor to extend 4-cylinder operation in various driving scenarios.

    The amount of electric assist is tailored within each of the Corvette E-Ray’s six driver-selectable modes: Tour, Sport, Track, Weather, My Mode and Z-Mode. Drivers can also select the Charge+ feature which maximizes the battery’s state of charge.

    E-Ray Performance App on the infotainment system provides the driver with technical insights into how the propulsion system is operating. There are three primary display layouts:

    • Gauges (displays dynamic power output from electric motor and V-8 engine)
    • Dyno (provides graph of power/torque across selectable time intervals)
    • Data (showcases electrical system performance and efficiency).

    The Corvette E-Ray’s electric motor over the front axle is compact, preserving space in the front storage compartment.

    Stealth Mode and tracking the E-Ray

    The Corvette E-Ray’s two driver-initiated electric modes enable the car to travel under electric propulsion in certain conditions. The electric motor also optimizes track performance.

    Stealth Mode enables all-electric driving, when selected at start-up, for a period of time before the engine turns on for normal driving. It is designed for quietly exiting a neighborhood, with a maximum speed of 45 mph. The engine automatically engages if the vehicle’s speed exceeds the limit, additional torque is requested by the driver, or the E-Ray’s battery pack is depleted.

    When it comes to leveraging the electrified propulsion system for enhanced track performance, E-Ray’s eAWD control system applies torque to the front axle as needed. The Charge+ feature can be used to maximize battery state of charge for extended lapping.

    The custom-designed Performance Traction Management (PTM) modes are optimized in concert with the eAWD propulsion system.

    Distinguished design  

    E-Ray’s appearance builds on the refined athletic styling and performance-driven design Corvette customers know and love.

    At a glance, the E-Ray shares its purposeful, wide-body proportions with the Z06, accommodating wide wheels that help manage the car’s greater torque delivery. The lightweight alloy wheels have a twisted five-spoke star design that is exclusive to E-Ray.

    “There’s never been a Corvette like E-Ray and its sophisticated design reflects that,” said Phil Zak, executive design director, Global Chevrolet. “It starts with the body color trim which draws your full attention to the exotic proportions of the E-Ray. The interiors allow customers to reflect their individual personalities with their choice of color executions that provide a refined or dynamic sport look and feel.”

    E-Ray design highlights include:

    • Four aluminum wheel finishes
    • Fourteen exterior color choices — including new for 2024 Riptide Blue, Seawolf Gray and Cacti
    • An E-Ray-exclusive body-length stripe package in Electric Blue
    • Standard carbon flash badging
    • Available black exhaust tips and bright badging
    • Available carbon fiber ground effects
    • Optional carbon fiber wheels in carbon flash, visible carbon fiber finish or visible carbon fiber with a red stripe

    The E-Ray also introduces the all-new Artemis Dipped interior, which features complementary deep green tones on nearly every interior surface and will only be available on 2024 Corvettes. There are multiple options for customers to select when it comes to personalizing their E-Ray’s interior including two carbon fiber trim packages, three seat choices, seven interior colors, and more.

    Additionally, there are new Charge+ and Stop/Start buttons on the console and updates to the infotainment system and instrument cluster aimed at providing a more integrated appearance.

    Coming later this year

    The 2024 Corvette E-Ray goes on sale in 2023, with an MSRP of $104,295 for the 1LZ coupe and $111,295 for the 1LZ convertible model, with production to take place at GM’s Bowling Green Assembly facility in Kentucky, from U.S. and globally sourced parts. Go to chevrolet.com for more information.

    Specifications

    PERFORMANCE

    0-60 mph: 2.5 seconds (approx.)
    Quarter-mile: 10.5 @ 130 mph (209 km/h) (approx.)
    Max Lateral G Force: 1.1g2

    ENGINE

    Type: LT2 6.2L V-8 VVT with direct injection and Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and Stop/Start
    Bore & stroke (in. / mm): 4.06 x 3.62 / 103.25 x 92
    Block Material: A319-T7 cast aluminum with cast-in iron cylinder liners and nodular main bearing caps
    Oiling System: Dry sump-type (7.5-qt. capacity); includes oil-spray piston cooling
    Oil Type: Dexos 2 0W40 synthetic
    Cylinder Head Material: 319-T7 cast aluminum
    Combustion Chamber Volume: 59cc
    Compression Ratio: 11.5:1
    Valvetrain: Overhead valve, two valves per cylinder; dual-equal variable valve timing
    Valve Size (in. / mm): 2.13 / 54 hollow (intake) & 1.59 / 40.4 sodium filled (exhaust)
    Fuel Delivery: Direct injection with Active Fuel Management: Max pressure: 2,900 psi (20 Mpa / 200 bar)
    Firing Order: 1-8-7-2-6-5-4-3 (all cylinders); 1-7-6-4 (with deactivation)
    Throttle Body: 87mm single bore (electronic)
    ECU: GM E99 (32-bit processing)
    Horsepower (hp / kW): 495 / 369 @ 6450 rpm
    Torque (lb.-ft. / Nm): 470 / 637 @ 5150 rpm

    TRANSMISSION & AXLE

    Type: MLH 8-speed dual clutch (DCT)

    ELECTRIFICATION SYSTEM

    Type: Single motor and gearset
    Motor: Permanent magnetic drive motor
    Power: 160 hp / 120 kW
    Torque (lb.-ft. / Nm): 125 / 165 @ motor
    Battery Type: Lithium-ion
    Energy: 1.9 kWh
    Combined Power (with engine): 655 hp / 481 kW

    CHASSIS & SUSPENSION

    Front Suspension: FE5 Short/long arm (SLA) double wishbone, forged aluminum upper and cast aluminum L-shape lower control arms; monotube shock absorbers; Magnetic Selective Ride Control 4.0. Adjustable front lift with memory is available
    Rear Suspension: FE5 Short/long arm (SLA) double wishbone, forged aluminum upper and cast aluminum L-shape lower control arms; direct-acting stabilizer bar; monotube shock absorbers; Magnetic Selective Ride Control 4.0
    Steering Type: Variable-ratio rack-and-pinion with electric power assist; includes Active Steer Stops with Magnetic Ride Control 4.0
    Steering ratio: 15.7:1
    Turning Circle (ft. / m): 36.4 / 11.1
    Brake Type: Front and rear eBoost-assisted carbon ceramic discs with Brembo six-piston/monobloc front calipers and four-piston/monobloc rear calipers
    Brake Rotor Size (in. / mm): Front: 15.7 x 1.5  / 398 x 38

    Rear: 15.4 x 1.3 / 391 x 34
    Wheel Size: Front: 20-inch x 10-inch (w/5 x 120mm bolt pattern)

    Rear: 21-inch x 13-inch (w/5 x 120mm bolt pattern)
    Tire Size: Front: 275/30ZR20

    Rear: 345/25ZR21

    EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS

    Wheelbase (in. / mm): 107.2 / 2722
    Overall Length (in. / mm): 184.6 / 4699
    Overall Width (in. / mm): 79.7 / 2025
    Overall Height (in. / mm): 48.6 / 1235
    Track (in. / mm): Front: 66.3 / 1685

    Rear: 66.1 / 1678

    INTERIOR DIMENSIONS

    Headroom (in. / mm): 37.9 / 962
    Legroom (in. / mm): 42.8 / 1087
    Shoulder Room (in. / mm): 54.4 / 1382
    Hip Room (in. / mm): 52 / 1321

    WEIGHTS & CAPACITIES

    Dry Weight (lb. / kg): 3774 / 1712 (coupe)

    3856 / 1749 (convertible)
    Cargo Volume (cu. ft. / L): 12.5 / 355

    FUEL TANK CAPACITY (approx.)

    18.5 gal. / 70 liters

  • Ferrari Roma Tailor Made China

    Ferrari is celebrating its 30th anniversary in mainland China by unveiling a one-of-a-kind Tailor Made Ferrari Roma. The new Roma draws inspiration from traditional Chinese aesthetics and craftsmanship through the many personalisation options offered by the Ferrari Tailor Made programme, and is a tribute to the brand’s milestones over the last thirty years. The launch of the new Tailor Made Ferrari Roma marks not only three decades since the first Ferrari order was placed in Beijing in 1992, but also the start of the marque’s fourth decade in China.

    The one-of-a–kind Tailor Made Roma was designed by Ferrari in collaboration with the prominent Chinese designer Jiang Qiong’er through the Ferrari Tailor Made programme, which provides a unique customised experience featuring a diverse array of specification options and bespoke design solutions. Clients are assisted by a team of Ferrari designers to create a model that reflects their individuality and taste, while upholding the aesthetic standards of the Ferrari brand.

    Jiang Qiong’er, who has developed an international reputation, is much sought after for her work with its roots in the subtlety, beauty and heritage of Chinese culture. Her design vision and distinctive insights, together with her deep understanding of traditional Chinese culture, mirror the aspiration of Ferrari to craft a special Roma for commemorating the special occasion. Together, Ferrari and Qiong’er took inspiration from classic Chinese aesthetics and fused concepts and expertise to achieve a synthesis of Italian design philosophy and Chinoiserie Chic.

    This Tailor Made Roma embodies the fundamental art and design principles shared by both sides: a devotion to detail, a respect for heritage and tradition, and above all a commitment to exquisite craftsmanship that creates a design language of timeless elegance and simplicity.

    The new car is coated with eye-catching contrasting colours: Sanusilver Matte and Rosso Magma Glossy, the latter paying homage to the traditional Chinese carmine red. The stripes running along the body and through the interior are inspired by characteristic features from classical Ming Dynasty furniture. It brings together traditional Chinese-inspired detailing and the sophisticated Italian artistry of the original model.

    It also features carbon-fibre sills with the Tailor Made dedication, a key case painted in red- and gold-spotted Boluo lacquer, an ancient Chinese technique known for its unique textured finish, as well as a dedication plate engraved with the Chinese characters for “30”. This gold dedication plate is inlaid with jade and has symbolic significance: in ancient Chinese culture, gold symbolises wealth and good fortune, while jade indicates purity and gentleness. Both are synonymous with good wishes and reverence.

    An exclusive lifestyle package has been designed by Jiang Qiong’er for this special Roma – a collection of multi-sensory pleasures that embody the quest for quality and style. Inspired by the appreciation of small pleasures in daily life, the package contains a set of four aroma diffusers, one for each season, made with ebony and crystal, a tea tool set painted in red- and gold-spotted Boluo lacquer, an ebony cigar box, an inkstone cigar ashtray, a tea set made using the craft of bamboo weaving, a Xuan paper kite, cashmere blankets, and a Chinese checkers set made from agate and leather. These items are stored discreetly in the glove compartment, armrest and boot.

    The Ferrari Roma features refined proportions and timeless design, combined with unparalleled performance and handling. Thanks to its 620-cv turbo-charged V8 that won the International Engine of the Year award four years in a row, it also represents the pinnacle of performance in this category. The Tailor Made Ferrari Roma perfectly blends traditional Chinese aesthetics with Roma’s inherent Italian style.

    Combining speed and poetry, power and understatement, the special Roma creates a bold fusion between heritage and innovation, fully embodying the marque’s pursuit of innovation and excellence. It not only encapsulates a summary of thirty years of memorable moments for Ferrari in China, but also marks the beginning of a new and exciting chapter of the marque’s journey in the region.