Tsvetan Varbanov – Page 4 – Automobiles Review

Canadian Tire Present An Ice Truck [video]

Canadian-Tire-Ice-Truck-shadow Canadian-Tire-Ice-Truck-medium When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade, goes the cliché saying. Apparently, however, lemonade isn’t good enough for Canada. In fact, forget the lemons, they have ice to deal with. Lots and lots of ice. What do you do with it? An big truck of ice, that’s what.

And we’re not talking about a sculpture or anything. No, this is a fully (or at least satisfyingly) functional truck with a real engine, an exhaust system, a bed-frame, big snowy tires and a pair of bumpers. The other bits, however, are quite…erm… melty. It even has a pine air freshener made up of ice. How cool is that?

Very. See, Canadian Tire – the company backing the project – didn’t just build it for fun (although, one does wonder). Among other things, they sell car batteries. In order to showcase their dependency even in the coldest of environment, they chilled deep froze one such battery to -40 Celsius and then put it in a truck made of ice. It’s just like in the movie Inception…sort of.

No clue what the engine is or all the other, usually relevant stuff, but just by seing it move, we really don’t We are really at a loss of words here. Oh, and the battery running under these conditions is also… you know… impressive. Go check it out:

httpv://youtu.be/rrFRaviVyQU

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Picture Source: Canadian Tire via Facebook

Video Source: Canadian Tire via YouTube

January 23, 2014

2015 Kia K900 Now With V8 Power

2015-Kia-K900-shadow 2015-Kia-K900-medium The K900 – Kia’s flagship sedan – now comes with a V8 engine. V6 engines will also be available, but they won’t be the top of the top now, will they? Also, each version of the 2015 model year has quite a few equipment packages, so you’ll have to extra careful in your choice.

The V6 K900 base range – which will go on sale later this year – is called the Premium. It’s still pretty luxurious with front and rear park-assist sensors and cameras, a leathered interior, a multimedia steering wheel, LED interior illumination, a 12-adjustable driver’s seat and power lumbar support and a few more bits.

For that extra something, you can equip the V6 with a Technology Package. It offers a variety of gadgets that, supposedly, should make your life easier. To name a few, consider the 16-way power adjustable driver’s seat with power headrests and cushion extender for added thigh support. Or how about the first-ever-in-a-Kia color Head-Up Display (HUD)? It displays not only things like speed and navigation directions, but also draws and provides information from the Blind Spot Detection and Lane Departure Warning systems (both of which are also standard on the Technology Package). Also included in the package is the radar-based Advanced Smart Cruise Control (ASCC) which is just plain clever (keeps a certain distance from the traffic upfront by adjusting the speed of the car by itself).

The most expensive K900 model you can have would be the V8 with the added VIP Package (daft name). It incorporates all of the features above plus super-fancy back seats with multi-stage heating and cooling. Both of them recline independently and have power lumbar support and lateral headrest adjustability. Behind the wheel of the VIP V8 one finds the “largest TFT instrument panel ever offered in a Kia”. On the centre console: a 9.2-inch display that offers access to the Driver Information System. Think of it as Kia’s version of the iDrive. It even has a similar rotarty knob. From there you control the 900-watt Lexicon high-fidelity audio system, the navigation, the lot. 2015-Kia-K900-medium-2

Enough IT lingo, though. Let’s move on to the essential bit – the V8. It’s a 5.0-liter GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) plant with dual CVVT variable timing on all 32 valves. It’s rated at 420 hp which is 109 more than the V6. The V8 utilizes a roller-type chain and a Teflon coated crank oil seal to reduce wear and tear. A sophisticated catalytic converter is said to help reduce emissions, but we don’t know any figures on that yet. The accompanying automatic transmission sports 8 gears. The shifts themselves happen at different rpm points depending on the mode of driving selected (Eco, Normal, and Sport).

The 3.8-liter Lamba V6 is still the most powerful Kia six-pot with 311 hp. It too uses the GDI module and CVVT. A three-step Variable Intake System (VIS), on the other hand, ensures optimum low- and mid-range torque. The Lamba is mated to the same 8-speed transmission the V8 but with appropriately modified ratios.

The chassis is 75 percent high and ultra-high tensile strength steel and holds an advanced five-link fully independent, sub-framed suspension. Front coaxial coil-spring shock absorbers and a new friction bearing in the steering column enhance straight-line stability and steering precision. The back benefits from individual coil springs and shock absorbers which in turn allows negative camber.

The K900 V8 includes as standard equipment staggered P245/45P-19 front and P275/40R-19 rear tires on 19-inch chrome alloy wheels.

Source: Kia

January 23, 2014

Tesla Model S With Vorsteiner Flow Forged V-FF 101 Wheels

Vorsteiner-V-FF-101-Tesla-Model-S-shadow It’s nice to see Tesla back in the news, even if it’s just by proxy. Vorsteiner – the California-based tuning company with a rather German name – have laid their hands on a Tesla Model S, which coincidentally (or not) is also a Californian brain child.

Maybe because it’s such an interesting choice (an electric car), Vorsteiner didn’t do much in terms of modifications. In fact, it’s just your average wheel-change-scheme: away with the stock 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels and on with the Vorsteiner set. They’ve gone for the 20-inch V-FF 101 Flow Forged Alloy wheels. Supposedly, they are even lighter than the standard ones. Sporting 285/35 R20 Michelins rather than the stock 245/45 R19 Goodyears must be taking a toll on the Tesla’s range; but let’s be honest, the new wheels most definitely do not look out of place on the Model S.

Just a reminder, the Tesla Model S is an all-electric RWD sedan powered by a 60 kWh lithium battery pack. It has pretty much all the features you would find on any of the executive saloons: Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, big, ventilated ABS, an independent back suspension, Xenon headlights and LED back lights, a 200 watt, seven speaker system, eight airbags and many more.

Source: Vorsteiner

January 23, 2014

Datsun Offers Glimpse At Forthcoming Concept Car

Datsun-Concept-Car-shadow Just a quick reminder that Datsun is back. The Nissan-sourced brand will be hitting the markets from this year on in specific areas such India, Indonesia, Russia and South Africa. So what better way for the company to start gaining media attention than appearing on the Delhi Auto Expo 2014 which kicks off on the 5th of February and will last until the 11th

And here is a sketch of what you should find at the expo when the time comes. It’s a concept car that’s supposed to show the brand’s future design direction.

Frankly, we don’t know how to feel about it. It sort of looks like a sub-compact crossover, and we’ve never been fond of these. Then there’s the styling itself. There seems to be a bit of Ibiza in there, a Ford Fiesta as well; it just doesn’t feel that fresh. Then again, it’s supposed to be accessible and simple. Agree to disagree?

We’ll just have to wait and see the real thing…which won’t be the real thing because it’s a concept, but you know what we mean.

Source: Nissan

January 22, 2014

Kia Launches VR7 Line For Picanto, Rio, Cee’d

Kia-VR7-Range-shadow Kia-VR7-Range-medium Kia are planning to introduce a new range for the Picanto, Rio and, cee’d (low-case spelling) models. It’s called the VR7 which sounds sporty but it really isn’t.

All VR7 models should have a high level of standard equipment. That means air conditioning, leathered steering wheel and gear shift knob, Bluetooth connectivity and USB and AUX ports. On the exterior the new trim-line cars will showcase a selection of features usually found on premium models: alloy wheels, reversing seonsrs, electrically adjustable heated door mirrors, and electric windows on all doors.

The Kia Picanto VR7 comes in either a 3- or 5-door version. The latter holds a slightly more powerful 1.0 engine with 84 hp. (the 3-door has 68 hp). Either way, you get an entirely comprehensive automotive package complete with things such as ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (ESB), Brake-Assist System (BAS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), six airbags and Hill-start Assist control (HAC).

The Kia Rio VR7 models are again in either 3- or 5-door shells. The 3-door Rio VR7 comes only with a 1.25-liter 84 hp engine and a 5-speed manual. All the while, the 5-door can have the same engine or a 1.1 CRDi diesel with 98 hp and a 6-speed manual ISG transmission. All the Rio models boast color-oriented bumpers, exterior door handles and door mirrors. Needless to say, ESC, VSM, HAC and Anti-theft Alarm System are again included.

Finally, the cee’d VR7 family. Weather you’re going to go with a pro_cee’d, a 3-door cee’d, a 5-door cee’d or a cee’d Sport Wagon, you will always end up with a 1.4 engine. All but one have the same power output: 98 hp. The one exception is the cee’d CRDi engine which develops 89 hp. All cee’ds have a 6-speed manual and all have a great bundle of standard extras: a rear spoiler, projection headlights, front fog lights and daytime running lights. Kia-Picanto-3door-VR7-medium

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Source: Kia

January 22, 2014

Ford Auctions First 2015 Mustang GT For $300,000

2015-Ford-Mustang-GT-First-Unit-shadow Last week we talked about the Barret-Jackson sale where the rights to buy the first production Camaro COPO for 2014 and the first Z/28 were auctioned off. However, there were even more production firsts that went under the hammer. Car collector and North Texas Ford dealer, Sam Pack signed a $300,000 check after placing a winning bid for the first retail production 2015 Ford Mustang GT. Yikes.

It’s not just money spent for bragging rights though. A part of the sum goes to the JDRF charity, a leading diabetes research organisation that has been endorsed from Ford since 1983. Mr Pack will also have the benefit to peruse the options list and customize the GT to his liking. He can choose any colour scheme he fancies for the inside and outside, and he can go with either a manual or an automatic. (fingers crossed for stick). Oh, and the design team will sign the car as an act of appreciation of the donation to JDRF.

The 2015 Ford Mustang brandishes a throaty V8 that turns out “more than” 420 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. It also doesn’t fall behind in terms of connectivity and ease of use. And by that we mean launch control – for that exquisite off-the-line start. A pony that actually doesn’t want to destroy it’s tires. Who would have thought?

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Source: Ford

January 22, 2014

Mcchip-DKR Mini John Cooper Works With A 2.0 TFSI And DSG Gearbox

Mcchip-DKR-Mini-John-Cooper-Works-TFSI-DSG-shadow How often do you get to see some tuner house behind the scenes action? Most of the time it’s just figures and dyno graphs. Ever wondered what it takes to actually do a proper overhaul?

If you have, it’s your lucky day. The guys at Mcchip-DKR have the uncanny idea to lift and transplant a Volkswagen TFSI engine. The recipient? A Mini John Cooper Works. Apparently, the JCW Mini’s 208 hp and 261 Nm of torque just don’t make the cut. Mcchip are anticipating a much more volatile end product with 340 to 350 hp.

The Mini’s new heart, a VAG 2.0 TFSI engine, is supposed to get new pistons and rods before the transfer. A Stage 3 kit (VLN Package) should yeald the desired power output. The rest of the JCW drive train has also been scrapped in favour of a DQ250 DSG transmission and a Drexler differential lock.

Judging by the provided picture material, we’d reckon Mcchip are going through quite a lot of hassle. If, however, everything goes as planned, this should be one demonic piece of work.

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Source: Mcchip-DKR

January 21, 2014

A Trendy Seat Mii Mango Special Edition

Seat-Mii-Mango-Special-Edition-shadow What do you get when you take a Spanish fashion house and a Spanish car make (that’s actually supervised by a German company) and put mash them together. Why, the Glam Beige Seat Mii by Mango special edition of course. It’s the one car that will make its début on a fashion show rather than on a car show. That is to say, the 080 Barcelona Fashion event (27-31 January).

On the outside, the Mii special edition distinguishes itself with a special set of dark grey 15 inch alloy wheels, grey electric door mirrors and “Mii by Mango” badges at the back and on the B-pillar.

The interior is where most of the designer side of it really shines. Leathered steering wheel and gear stick, Alcantara upholstery on all seats with a beige trim and, again, “Mii by Mango” embossing. The door sills too read the same. The mirror on the driver sun visor and the glove box handbag hanger clearly hint that Seat are targeting a very specific group of people (women) with the Mii by Mango. Is that sexist?

The Mango Mii will be available in either 3 or 5-door versions and will be equipped similiarly to the Style trim line. That means ESC, ABS, front and lateral airbags for the front seats, head-thorax airbags, air conditioning, CD/MP3 audio system, hill hold control, central locking, power windows and more as standard.

Source: Seat

January 21, 2014

An Adventure: Fiat Panda 4×4 Antartica From Turin To Sochi

Fiat-Panda-4x4-Antartica-To-Sochi-shadow The “Panda to Sochi” project is happening right now as we speak. Fiat, in collaboration with Vice Media and a couple more sponsors, is sending a team of four to Casa Italia, Sochi (Russia) in a Panda. That is, Fiat Freestyle Team riders Stefano Munari – star of Italian snowboarding – and Stefan Lantschner, a BMX talent from the Alto Adige area, together with Markus Keller, the famous Nitro team rider who will take turns with Dmitri Sartor during the trip. Gersin Livia Paya, editor of Vice completes the quartet.

Before their final destination, the team will stop by in 16 different European locations. They will shed some light on the diverse cultures along the way. A team of photographers and videomakers will also join in, immortalising the crew’s tricks and manoeuvres at characteristic landmark sites such as Dracula’s castle in Transylvania, the Potëmkin Stairs in the Ukraine, or Mont Blanc and Lake Geneva.

The Fiat used is no ordinary Panda as well. It’s a 4×4 Antartica special edition. It carries a TwinAir Turbo 0.9 petrol engine which yields 85 hp. Antartica specific features include a white and black roof, 15-inch alloy wheels in grey diamond finish, orange hub caps, fog lights, tinted rear and back windows and a badge on the cnetral pillar that serves as an identifier. 175/65 R15 84T M+S Winter Snow Flake tires go on all four wheels as standard – good not only for snow and ice but also dirt roads and general low-grip surfaces. A lot of software also ensure save travels: a torque on demand drive system, an Electronic Stability Control, and an Electronic Locking Differential

Inside, the Antartica showcases an overwhelming theme of orange and grey fabric (most of it eco-leather). A 3-seater rear seat with 60/40 folding backrest and height-adjustable driver’s seat offers adequate comfort and versatility.

The team team should also arrive in Sochi with their spines intact since the Antartica sits on a revised MacPharson independent suspension at the front and a interconnected wheel with torsion beam at the rear.

Source: Fiat

January 21, 2014

Skoda Octavia Hatch GreenLine: 88.3 mpg

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There is a new addition to the Skoda Octavia range. It’s the GreenLine hatch – an 88.3 mpg and 85 g/km (CO2) car that still manages to pull off 110 PS.

The main culprit behind these impressive figures is the 1.6 TDI CR diesel engine. It’s managed by a Start-Stop system which comes as standard on all third-generation Octavia cars anyway. The GreenLine however, comes also with a set of uniquely styled low-resistance wheels. 16-inch in diameter, these alloys go by the name of “Velorum”. The intended tire pressure for the GreenLine is a bit higher than usual in in order to reduce the friction surface area on the road.

Other technological highlights include regenerative braking and front fog lights as standard. Visual treats: GreenLine badges on the front grille and rear hatchback. The gearstick inside also reads GreenLine.

The Octavia GreenLine is now officially on sale in the UK and is priced at £20,150 or about $33,118

Source: Skoda

January 20, 2014

An Exclusive Maybach 57S By Knight Luxury

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Meet Mr. Toby Knight, the founder of Miami-based Knight Luxury Inc. He firmly believes that the “failure” of the Maybachs around the world is partly due to their unsophisticated design. Would love to know how he feels about caviar hors d’oeuvres. Too rustic maybe? Main point: This is the $1,000 000+ Sir Maybach 57S project by Knight Luxury. Let’s see how things have gotten from unsophisticated to unparalleled.

The front apron and the back-end bumper seem to be the only non-carbon pieces left on the car, yet they are new as well. The latter hosts a carbon fiber diffuser, while the former sports a set of LED daytime running lights. As for the rest (hood, trunk lid, all four wings, all pillars and all doors), it’s carbon fiber all the way. It’s all very light but we don’t get to see the Sir on a scale, which is a pity. Apparently, if you open the hood carbon air filter boxes and a carbon engine cover will glare at you.

Four 24-inch inch wheels measuring 9.5 inches at the front and 10 inches at the back The wheel rim stars are carbon-finished and painted, while the wheel beds are black powder coated. A 285/30 R24 tire fits all wheels.

A 4-pipe sports exhaust system with valve control provides the appropriate soundtrack, while a LED underbody lighting gives that extra pinch of drama. Yeah, lights under the car spell sophistication, apparently.

Moving on to the inside, you are greeted by a black and white dashboard, an ergonomic sports steering wheel with red Kederrand. The door covers, the foot wells and the door sills are all clad in diamond stitching. The trunk too is lined with diamond patterned leather. In total 28 parts inside were replaced with white carbon counterparts and 39 parts, again inside, were replaced with back carbon. Interior ambiance is achieved through an indirect UV black light inside.

In terms of connectivity, the Sir Maybach comes complete with an Apple TV module, two iPads and an Apple keyboard accessible to the rear passengers. Among the arsenal of gadgets are also an LTE wireless module and a GPS tracking module.

Source: Knight Luxury

January 20, 2014

The Beginning Of The Vorsteiner Lamborghini LP-550/60 Renazzo

Vorsteiner-Lamborghini-Gallardo-Renazzo-front-piece-shadow Finally, some actual news from Vorsteiner. It’s not much, but it will have to do for now. We’re talking about a new front piece for the Lamborghini Gallardo. Called the Renazzo, it replaces the OEM fascia with a distinctive carbon-fiber bits end vents. The tuners have called the Lambo featured in this gallery the Vorsteiner Lamborghini LP-550/60 Renazzo. We’re guessing the logic behind the name is that the piece fits both the LP-550 and LP-560?

The 2×2 carbon composite pre-preg construction features two floating aero fins and honey comb mess grills. As an option, there’s, again a 2×2 carbon fiber, center splitter add-on piece and dual fins for even more looks and (possibly) stability.

The design didn’t just come out from thin air. Vorsteiner’s partial source of inspiration was the Gallardo Super Trofeo race car that competes in the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo league. The Renazzo project aims to bring that concept onto the streets.

Yes, there will be more Vorsteiner bits coming out to complete the program. Oh, and the wheels featured here in this gallery belong to Vorsteiner’s Forged VSE-001 one-piece line. We’d venture 20-inches in size.

Source: Vorsteiner

January 20, 2014

Author: Tsvetan Varbanov