Victor Ivanov – Page 15 – Automobiles Review

Mercedes-Benz S500 Plug-in Hybrid with F1 Technology [video]

Mercedes-Benz has published a new promo video featuring the new S500 Plug-in Hybrid. The super-efficient luxurious saloon boasts F1 technology fitted in a road going model. The video also features Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton who argue on topic: who is the best driver.

Mercedes-Benz S500 Plug-in Hybrid is powered by a 3.0 liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine and an electric motor with an 8.7 kWh battery pack. The petrol engine develops 333HP (245 kW) and 480Nm (354 lb-ft). The combined output is 435HP (325 kW) and 650Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The average fuel consumption is sensational – 2.8 liters / 100 km (84 mpg US or 100.8 mpg UK). The car can go up to 33 km (20.5 miles) only on electricity.

The Mercedes-Benz hybrid system is modular and scalable in design, and can be applied to numerous model series including E-Class, C-Class, CLS, etc. In the coming years, there will be numerous new hybrid models. The modular hybrid system also shows its strengths in conjunction with the different drive systems. In-line four-cylinder engines (petrol and diesel) can be hybridised just as well as a V6 petrol engine.

“Mercedes-Benz – The Best or Nothing!”

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WNt97ySBfXI

Source: Mercedes-Benz

July 24, 2014

Toyota’s Driver Awareness Research Vehicle

Toyota is researching ways to keep the driver focused on the road without sacrificing any of the benefits offered by sophisticated on-board information systems. The Japan manufacturer is working with Microsoft and Infosys in a co-project named DARV 1.5, the latest generation of Toyota’s Driver Awareness Research Vehicle.

DARV 1.5 is a fully functioning car that provides a working platform for studying the dynamics of driver distraction. A development of the original MPV-based DAR-V, it is equipped with Microsoft’s Surface tablet and Kinect motion-sensing technologies and custom-designed Infosys biometric software to help everyone on board and the car itself to work together as a team to achieve safer driving.

Some of the new features include a driver “lock-in” function that identifies who is behind the steering wheel by tracking body frame, and automatically enabling or disabling control features according to the user. Advances have also been made in determining how wearable devices, such as smart watches, might be used to control vehicle functions. As a working car, DARV 1.5 can also measure driver behaviour and produce a “score” based on safe driving choices.

“Our society is on the cusp of a revolution in personal mobility. Slowly but surely, new technologies are changing how we think about automobiles and transportation, from intelligent automated systems that team up with drivers to improve safety, to zero-emissions vehicles that emit nothing but water vapour.”, commented Osamu Nagata, President and CEO of Toyota Motor Engineering and Manufacturing North America.

“These technologies will help save lives, improve the environment, create jobs and help us maintain technical leadership in a field that is an important contributor to economic growth.”, he finished.

Source: Toyota

July 23, 2014

2014 BMW X4 F26 – Price £36,590

BMW UK is now offering the all-new X4 F25 with pricing starting from £36,590 OTR for the entry-level xDrive20d SE model. The all-new SAC (Sports Activity Coupe) combines all unique features of the BMW X family with the stylish elegance of a classical coupe. It is positioned in the premium mid-size segment.

The X4 F25 comes with a number of new technologies including high-performance engines, the world’s most intelligent all-wheel drive system – xDrive, a comprehensive package of BMW EfficientDynamics as well as BMW ConnectedDrive.

Initially, the engine range of the 2014 X4 will include xDrive20d, xDrive30d and xDrive35 with 2.0 and 3.0 liter common-rail diesel engines.

The xDrive20d has 190HP (140 kW) and 400Nm (296 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 8.0 seconds and a top speed of 211 km/h (132 mph). Average fuel economoy – 52.3 mpg UK (5.4 liters / 100 km).

The xDrive30d has 258HP (190 kW) and 560Nm (415 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 5.8 seconds and a top speed of 232 km/h (145 mph). Average fuel economy – 47.9 mpg UK (5.9 liters / 100 km).

The xDrive35d has 313HP (230 kW) and 630Nm (467 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds and a top speed of 247 km/h (153 mph). Average fuel economy – 47.1 mpg UK (6.0 liters / 100 km).

Standard equipment of 2014 BMW X4 includes: automatically opening tailgate, Variable Sport Steering, 18” light-alloy wheels, front and rear Park Distance Control, Performance Control and Xenon headlights. Inside the BMW X4 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats, a Sport leather steering wheel, Heated front seats and BMW Business Media package.

The xLine trim level ads an exclusive18” light-alloy wheels, Satin Aluminium exterior trim, Dark Copper interior trim, Sport seats and exclusive xLine leather upholstery.

The ///M-Sport model offers: ///M Aerodynamics package, High-gloss Shadow Line trim exterior trim and an exclusive 19” M-Sport light-alloy wheels, M-Sport suspension, ///M door sill finishers, Sport seats and an Aluminium Hexagon interior trim add the finishing touches.

Source: BMW

July 23, 2014

1965 Ferrari 275 GTB/C Speciale – On Sale

A 1965 Ferrari 275 GTB/C Speciale will be auctioned on August 16^th during the RM Auctions Monterey event. The super-rare sports car is expected to be the most expensive Ferrari ever sold.

The previous most expensive Ferrari in the history was the 275 GTB/4 NART Spider that was sold for €20 million (around $27 million). However, the 275 GTB/C Speciale is expected to go up to whopping €25 million (around $34 million).

There are only three units from this model and this particular Ferrari 275 GTB/C Speciale has a chassis number: 06701 (the first one from the series). It is designed to go against the legendary Ford GT40 and Shelby Cobra Daytona at Le Mans in 1965. Still, this one never hit the track, but one of the other two units finished 3^rd in the overall standing at the 1965 24 Hours of Le Mans.

1965 Ferrari 275 GTB/C Speciale is powered by a 3.3 liter V12 engine with six carburetors – 320HP (235 kW), which is 70HP more than the original 275 GTB. The Speciale also comes with lightweight aluminum bodywork and a chassis as well as an independent rear suspension. All this technology was simply astonishing back then.

Stay tuned!

Source: RM Auctions

July 23, 2014

Kelleners Sport BMW X5 F15

Kelleners Sport has unveiled their latest tuning project based on the latest generation BMW X5 – the F15. The tuning company, which is based in the southwest of Germany offers a sporting and elegant package including a wide-body kit, stainless steel tailpipes, aluminium wheels, a lowering kit and customising parts for the interior.

The exterior boasts a complete aerodynamics package including a new front spoiler, extended wheel arches and a modified rear skirt. There is also a complete stainless-steel sports exhaust system with oval tailpipes – 106 x 71 mm, a new coilover suspension and a set of 10J x 22” alloy wheels fitted with low-profile high-performance tires – 295/30 ZR 22.

The interior features new premium leather upholstery as well as a number of carbon fiber or wood trim elements. There is also a set of new foot mats in black velour, the Kelleners Sport logo and the set of aluminium pedals. As a stylish finishing touch, the emblem can also be embossed in the front head rests.

Kelleners Sport offers performance package for the xDrive30d, xDrive35i and xDrive50i models. The diesel is boosted to 302HP (222 kW) and 655Nm (483 lb-ft) of torque – an increase of 44HP and 95Nm. The small petrol unit now produces 358HP (263 kW) and 468Nm (345 lb-ft) – an increase of 52HP and 68Nm. The most powerful engine gets the KS Power 50 module delivering – 527HP (386 kW) and 761Nm (561 lb-ft).

All upgrades are now available to order through Kelleners Sport dealerships. Pricing is available upon request.

Source: Kelleners Sport

July 23, 2014

VATH Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG

VATH has unveiled their tuning program for Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG. The ultra-hot hatchback was unveiled back in 2013 and since then several tuning companies developed styling packages for it. VATH offers both – styling and performance upgrades for the A45 AMG.

The exterior features a full aerodynamics package consisting of modified front and rear bumpers, new side skirts and a huge rear wing. There are also new VATH logos as well as decals and red brake calipers. The tuning company fitted the A45 AMG with a set of new three-part forged wheels – 8.5J x 20” fitted with 225/30 R20 tires at the front and 9.5J x 20” with 265/25 R20 at the rear. Another set is also available – one-piece rims – 8.5J x 19” and 9.5J x 19” with 235/35 R19 and 255/30 R19, respectively.

The A45 AMG is powered by a 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol with 360HP (265 kW) at 6,000RPM and 450Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque at 2,250RPM. 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. The engine is mated to an AMG SPEED SHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission with three driving programs, double-declutching function and Race Start. VATH offers a tuning package boosting the engine to 425HP (312 kW) and 515Nm (381 lb-ft) – an increase of 65HP and 65Nm. The result is thanks to an ECU re-map, a custom down pipe and 200 cells VA-stainless steel catalyst.

Other highlights include sport coilovers (-20 to -65 mm ride height); sports exhaust systems; big brake systems; and exclusive interior equipment.

All parts have MOT-approval.

Source: Vath

July 23, 2014

Top 3 Fastest Stock AWD Super Cars – Porsche 991 Turbo, Audi R8 GT and Lamborghini Gallardo LP560

Dragtimesinfo has published a video showing Top 3 fastest stock AWD (all-wheel drive) super cars. On the first place is Porsche 991 Turbo S – 560HP, on the second place is Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 – 560HP and on the third place – Audi R8 GT – 560HP.

The 2012 Audi R8 GT has a 5.2 liter V10 FSI – 560HP (412 kW), which is enough for catapulting to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds and to 200 km/h in 10.8 seconds. The top speed is 320 km/h (199 mph). It managed to cover 1 km in 21.392 seconds with a trap speed of 253.34 km/h.

The Gallardo LP560-4 is powered by the same engine – a 5.2 liter V10 – 560HP (412 kW) at 8,000RPM. 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and 0-200 km/h in 11.8 seconds. The top speed is 325 km/h (202 mph). It covered 1 km in 21.227 seconds with 255.68 km/h.

The 2014 Porsche 991 Turbo S has a 3.8 liter flat-six turbocharged engine – 560HP (412 kW) at 6500RPM and 700Nm (519 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is connected to a DCT 7-speed gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 318 km/h (198 mph). It finished in 20.225 seconds with a speed of 262.19 km/h.

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JORuiUtQ-j8

Source: Dragtimesinfo

July 22, 2014

BMW 1-Series Sedan [render]

The designer – Theophilus Chin has created two nice render images of BMW 1-Series Sedan, which is only a rumor for now. The entry-level BMW is now offered only in 3- and 5-door hatchback configurations, while the 2-Series offers coupe and convertible models.

Besides the possible 1-Series Sedan, there is another bothering news – the model will come with front wheel drive as the recently announce 2-Series Active Tourer and the 2^nd generation X1.

“The NES (New Entry-Level Sedan) is integral to our growth plans,” commented unknown source.

“It will be an important pillar in the future 1-series lineup, particularly in the U.S. and China, where sales of small premium-brand four-door sedans are on the rise.”, he added.

BMW 1-Sereis Sedan is going to compete versus CLA and Audi A3 Sedan. Probably, both of them will be slightly bigger than the BMW, but they are in a same segment of FWD small saloons.

The engine range of the future 1-Series Sedan will be carried over – three- and four-cylinder direct-injection (with or without turbocharger) petrol and common-rail diesel units. A hybrid version will probably emerge, too because of the demanding on the market.

Stay tuned!

July 22, 2014

2015 Chevrolet SS will Get a 6-Speed Manual Gearbox

2015 Chevrolet SS will get a 6-speed manual transmission as well as a 3.70 rear axle ratio. The model will also get a Magnetic Selective Ride Control system improving the handling and the comfort significantly by adjusting the stiffness of the dampers continuously.

Other new features include five colors: Jungle Green Metallic, Regal Peacock Green, Perfect Blue, Some Like It Hot Red and Alchemy Purple. There is also a new front license plate bracket and an OnStar 4G LTE infotainment system with a touchscreen display.

The engine remains the well-known LS3 6.2 litre V8 with 415HP (310 kW) and 563Nm (415 lb-ft) of torque. It accelerates the vehicle from 0-100 km/h in 5.0 seconds, when connected to a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Standard extras include High intensity discharge headlamps with Light emitting diode daytime running lamps, Automatic Parking Assist, Chevrolet MyLink with a color touch screen and GPS-based navigation system, Bose premium audio system – including SiriusXM radio (with 12-month trial), Color head-up display and color driver information center, Dual-zone automatic climate control, Alloy pedal covers, Heated and ventilated front seats with memory, Side Blind Zone Alert and Lane Departure Warning, Rear-vision camera with rear park assist, Keyless access and push-button start.

Source: GM

July 22, 2014

Prefix Performance Dodge SRT Viper Convertible

Prefix Performance has unveiled their latest tuning project based on the extreme Dodge SRT Viper. The name of the project is Medusa, which is a “type of vehicle you clamor for but doesn’t exist”.

The tuning company removes the fixed roof and adds a retractable soft top and a modified rear end. Each car of the limited series will come with an individually-numbered plaque, special branded floor mats and a painted X-brace under the hood. Prefix Performance also offers custom stripes for the bespoke interior.

Prefix will build just 10 units of Medusa with pricing starting from $35,000. The 2014 Dodge SRT Viper is priced from $101,309 in the US.

As a reminder, Dodge SRT Viper is powered by a 8.4 liter naturally aspirated V10 engine producing 640HP (477 kW) and 814Nm (600 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 6-speed manual gearbox. The curb weight of the vehicle is just 1,521 kg (3,354 lbs), so 0-100 km/h takes 3 seconds and a top speed of 331 km/h (206 mph). The ¼ mile is covered in 11.5 seconds. If that’s not impressive enough, the model can go from 0-160-0 km/h in less than 12 seconds.

Source: Prefix

July 22, 2014

2015 Mitsubishi Pajero Facelift

Mitsubishi has unveiled the 2015 Pajero Facelift in Japan coming with a number of upgrades for the exterior as well as the interior.

Outside, the 2015 Pajero boasts a new front bumper and a revised grille. There are also LED DRLs (daytime running lights) and a new spare tire cover giving the vehicle more refined look. The interior boasts a complete makeover including new metallic trim elements and additional sound material for the instrument panel, door trim. It further raises the silence inside the vehicle. The VR II models comes with piano black accents, while the Exceed and Super Exceed trim levels feature wood grain trim.

The engine range is not modified – 3.0 liter V6 petrol and a 3.2 liter four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine. The petrol engine develops 178HP (131 kW) at 5,250RPM and 261Nm (193 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 13.6 seconds and a top speed of 175 km/h (109 mph). The diesel has 200HP (147 kW) at 3,800RPM and 441Nm (327 lb-ft) of torque at 2,000RPM. The top speed is 185 km/h (115 mph).

The 2015 Mitsubishi Pajero is already on sale in Japan. The price is starting from ¥2,921,400 (before taxes).

Source: Mitsubishi

July 22, 2014

2014 Porsche Macan Tuned by TechArt

TechArt has presented their latest tuning project based on 2014 Porsche Macan. The sporty crossover can be fitted with different alloy wheels and comes with exterior and interior upgrades.

Outside, the TechArt Macan boasts a new front spoiler, a roof spoiler as well as a modified rear diffuser and wheel arch extensions or side skirts. All components are manufactured from a lightweight fibre composite of polyurethane RIM. The aerodynamics package is distinguished by high levels of load-bearing capacity and dimensional stability with a low tare weight.

The interior features interior styling packages in carbon fiber or exotic woods. There are also exquisite TechArt leather equipment and an ergonomic 3-spokes Multifunctional Sport Steering Wheel with TechArt paddle shifters. The tuning company also offers aluminum sport pedal set, and branded floor mats as well as luggage compartment floor mat.

TechArt also offers performance packages for Macan’s six-cylinder engines. The power kits include ECU re-map as well as complete sports exhaust system. There are no official performance figures, but the additional power with make the crossover even sportier.

The air suspension module can adjust the ride height according to driver’s demands. There are also different sets of sport spring lowering the vehicle between 20 and 60 mm.

Alloy wheels sets include: Formula; Formula II; Formula III and Formula IV designs in sizes between 20” and 22”.

Source: TechArt

July 21, 2014

Author: Victor Ivanov