Auto News – Page 314 – Automobiles Review

General Motors Continues To Expand with New Vehicle Program

General Motors is ready to invest $245 million and expand with 300 working places at the Orion Assembly plant in order to support the launch of an completely new vehicle program, that will be different in any aspect than everything the brand has done until today. In fact, the investment in Orion is about $962 million since the UAW and General Motors cooperated to reopen the plant, idled in 2010.

This latest investment comes in just seven months after the announcement of additional $160 million to launch Chevrolet’s legendary Bolt EV, which is expected to be the one of the best electric vehicles ever created.

GM Production Proces

In fact, Orion has incredible ways of motivating employees to offer numerous solution to bran’s problems. For example, there is a special team, that recently developed a special process monitoring tool for robotic paint applications. This robot now alerts operators to potential and dangerous failures before they actually happen. Clever. And remember, this is only one example of the politics in Orion.

As you might know, since June 2009, General Motors has made investments in US of about $17.8 billion. And about $12.4 billion of these have come since 2011 UAW-GM National Agreement. And in total there are 6,250 work places opened.

Investments, investments and more investments. General Motors surely went for big expansion.

Source: GM

June 23, 2015

Ram Stays the Leader in “King of the Hill” Challenge

ram

Ram continues the “King of the Hill” heavy-duty battle with the introduction of the 2016 Ram 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty pickups. The confident leaders now continue to expand and upgrade. Furthermore, the Ram 2500 is a leader in this class battle for economy with the special 3.0 EcoDiesel V6 engine. The unit provides 240 horsepower and 420 lb-ft.

And now Ram engineers created a special hard-hitting fuel delivery with a turbo boost calibrator fo the 6.7-Liter I-6 diesel, that comes with extra 35 lb-ft of torque. The improvement Ram’s title from 565 to 900 lb-ft of torque. This number is actually achieved for the first time in a mass-production vehicle.

ram
As you know, the previous heavy-duty truck winner was the 3500 model at 30,000 pounds. But now the 2016 Ram 3500 raises that stat to 31,210, which makes further distancing rival by more than two tons. And in order to handle the increased capacity, Ram engineers added 4 more bolts to the rear axle ring gear and now they are 16. This means, that the truck can easily handle the new 11.8-inch axle. And the heavy duty materials and stronger components ensure a long-term durability.
Big, strong, and capable of dominating every terrain. What more would people want from such a vehicle?

Source: Ram

June 23, 2015

Lexus Unveils Another Sporty Concept Vehicle

Lexus prepares for the Time Attack competition at the Pikes Peak Hill Climb. Something more, the luxurious brand will demonstrate the special and unique RC F GT Concept. The vehicle is especially designed and based on the IS F CCS-R model, that competed at Pikes Peak back in 2013. The event itself is really popular and in its core is a race battle with the clock. But along with the best times, the judges will also choose the winner and for his abilities. Reaction, confidence and smooth ride are also part of the competition.

But the RC F GT Concept is not only a competition vehicle. It also represents a pivotal piece of the Lexus F, along with the upcoming GT3 program. Pretty similar to the IS F CCS-R units, whose role in motorsport helped the development of key components, the GT Concept program will continue to improve the F brand’s mission. This will also allow Lexus engineers to try out some interesting ideas, that might happen to be the right ones.

The concept itself

With a focused race attitude, the RCF GT comes with numerous changes, compared to the street model. The Concept weights about 800 lbs. But it also retains the same engine and transmission. And with the concept vehicle, engineers can test the engine, transmission and chassis and can think of some changes and tuning ideas, that can make the car even better. So, here is a list with full information about the car itself:

concept

Curb weight	3130 lbs. (1420 kgs.)
Engine displacement	5.0 Liter
Horsepower/torque	467+ Hp at 7100 rpm/ 390+ lbs.-ft at 4800 rpm
Transmission	8-speed automatic with manual shifting mode
Wheelbase	107.4 inches (2730 mm)
Overall Length	189.2 inches (4805 mm)
Overall Width	77.8 inches (1915 mm)
Overall Height	53.4 (1357 mm)
Weight Reduction	Carbon fiber construction of: hood, roof, trunk lid, door panels, front and rear over fenders, front canards, rear spoiler, interior trim and dashboard. Polycarbonate window.
Tires	Yokohama ADVAN Neova AD08R 265/40R18 Yokohama ADVAN A005 280/680R18

Source: Lexus

June 23, 2015

Opel Mokka is the best Vehicle In Germany!

Opel Mokka is considered as the most successful SUV in ins class in Germany. But also the model has big success in all Europe. Up to date, there are more than 400,000 orders. And now the Mokka model will be crafted with even more desire and with even better gadgets. The vehicle will be offered with better diesel engine and better technology gadgets. Let’s see what is happening here.

Opel Mokka: Wide Choice and Big Capabilities

The reasons for the success of Mokka model is the chassis and the powerplant system. As you might remember, the 1.6 CDTI 136hp (100 kW) unit was introduced in the beginning of the year. The engine offers some wonderful CO2 emission rates and it is paired to a manual six-speed transmission. But there is also a smaller version of the engine: the 110 hp (80 kW) small brother. The unit is known for its wonderful efficiency and the smooth ride. It offers 300 Nm of torque and with combination of a six-speed manual transmission can go from 0 to 100 km/h (62 miles) in 12 seconds. And needs additional 11 seconds to go to mid-range acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h. And of course, both engines come with wonderful efficiency rates.

mokka

But the improvements do not stop here. The Mokka model will be offered with better safety system and better technology gadgets. For example, the vehicle will be purchased with the Opel OnStar system. It allows passengers to benefit from a wide range of safety features. In fact, there is also a special trim, named Cosmo, that focuses on the comfort and safety. And there is one more trim option, named Black Roof Edition, which adds a special high-gloss black roof and black door mirrors. Furthermore, the color options are now even bigger with the additional True Blue metallic and Abalone White. Cool, isn’t it?

mokka

Source: Opel

June 23, 2015

Mini Clubman S and Mac Audio System. Musical Fairytale or Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing?

Mini Clubman S received a special attention by Mac Audio team. As you know, the boys of Mac Audio are the masters, when it comes to audio systems: it doesn’t matter, if you want to upgrade with larger speakers, subwoofers, amplifiers or anything else, the right place for you is the Mac Audio office. And now the Mini Clubman S comes with numerous upgrades and tweaks, that only the Mac Audio guys can install on a vehicle.

And with all the components on the Mini, the audio engineers created another masterpiece. Now, the lucky passengers can listen to music like never before. But not only with the high volumes and power. The quality of the sound also means dynamic characterization, high-quality components and of course, the superior abilities and craftsmanship. The audio system brings a crystal clear, fine tuned and authentic sound

The Mini and the Beast

The system comes with these components: 3 pieces of programmable computerized amps, digital sound processor and Mac Audio Reference 2.1 DSP, that brings the extra power and the boost for even more powerful and clear sound. And Apropos loudspeakers. Mac Audio Star X 2.16. Two of them. And all the system components are tamed and commanded by Audiovox VXE 7020 NAV unit. And the last component is a rear camera. Yes, the audio system comes with camera. Why? To prevent the eventual damage, when driving and parking backward. How cool is that?

mini

And of course, the system comes with highest quality cables and power supply units. In this case the Mini is geared with SP 1000 battery and two Mac Audio Cap 1.2 Farad condensers. Long story short, the whole audio system can confidently control the dynamics, which means even better audio experience.

But this is not all

Not only the inside of the Mini was shaped in the style of Mac Audio. The exterior of the vehicle also received numerous changes and upgrades. Now the Mini is geared with a John Cooper Works body kit. Furthermore, there is also a special painting and graphics, that cover all the body. There are numerous Mac Audio writings and logos, along with the interesting color scheme. Furthermore, the car comes and with Oxigin 15 rims in 8×18-inch fitted with Yokohama S-Drive AS01 tires.

mini

And along with the audio power, there is a also additional power in the drivesystem. The powerplant is optimized and now has a total output of 230 hp (169 kW) and 365Nm of torque. The top speed is also higher and it is measured at 239 km/h (148 mph). And with the high power comes and high-power brake system. The Stoptech 4 system makes sure, that the high speed and power will be tamed in every single moment.

Source: MINI

June 23, 2015

Rolls-Royce Wraith Porto Cervo Displays True Exclusiveness

Rolls-Royce Wraith Porto Cervo is an example of an exclusive car which will be built in only three examples. Just like its orange brother (which was shown last week) this luxury Wraith is set to make debut at the Rolls-Royce Summer Studio in Italy.

Styling Inspired by Costa Smeralda

Inspired by the spirit of Costa Smeralda, this example comes in the distinctive blue metallic paint scheme. The exterior color is contrasted with white graphics. In addition, the stunning shell of this Rolls-Royce is accompanied by a contrasting interior filled with a lot of goodies.

The cabin of the car was decided in a two tone finish, including Arctic White and Navy Blue. The most special treatment here is the Royal Walnut Open Pore wood trim that really stands out at first glance.

The interior of the Rolls-Royce Wraith Porto Cervo also shows-off with special embroidered headrests, metal inlays, deep blue seat belts and a lot of technology features.

Engine

The unmistakable style of the vehicle is accompanied by the unmistakable sound and force of the twin-turbo V12 engine. The unit works in harmony with an eight-speed automatic ZF transmission.

The V12 is capable of generating 624 hp (465kW) and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque available from 1500 rpm. These numbers result in an instant acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).

There is no official information on pricing so far.

Source: Rolls-Royce

June 23, 2015

BMW Individual Celebrates 25th Birthday with Custom BMW M4 Coupe

2015 BMW M4 Coupe by BMW Individual is a vehicle which one does not see every day. There are several reasons for this fact. First it is an M4 series, and as we all know, the most favorited among all M specifications are the M3s. The other reason is that the car has been customized by BMW Individual, which is Bavarian company’s official customization division. And we must say it looks fantastic and stands out with its own uniqueness.

The reason for the release of this special car is BMW Individual’s 25^th birthday. So a one-off vehicle is always the best way to mark an anniversary, isn’t it?

Exterior

The outer looks of this anniversary 2015 BMW M4 Coupe by BMW Individual are characterized by a Macao Blue metallic paint finish. The special exterior color is accompanied by a black finish for the M front splitter. What we see at the top of the M4 is a carbon fiber roof that carries the legendary three-colored M stripes.

Interior

The cabin of this M4 is defined by unique upholstery. It is made of fine-grain Merino leather and features a bi-color treatment. Precisely, the shades are black & Silverstone and they have been contrasted via Silverstone stitching.

To celebrate the 25^th birthday, BMW Individual embroidered anniversary logos on the headrests. The hand brake as well as the centre console has been also wrapped in Silverstone leather. To make the interior even more harmonious, the experts added carbon fiber elements and Macao Blue metallic accents here and there. The characteristic M logo can be seen on the center console, hand brake and seats.

Engine

2015 BMW M4 Coupe by BMW Individual comes equipped with the six-cylinder TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter unit. It produces no less than 431 horsepower (317 kW) and 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) of torque. The force of the car is transmitted onto the road via seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. It helps the car in achieving 4.1 seconds acceleration time for the 0-100 km/h sprint.

Source: BMW

June 23, 2015

2016 Chevy Camaro Convertible Leaks Ahead of Official Debut

2016 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible has already leaked right before it makes official debut tomorrow. Next to the released video at Chevrolet’s YouTube channel, it seems that the company “accidentally” released the pictures shown above on their site. They were after that removed, but conscious people at camaro6.com forum were fast enough to download them and later publish them.

What we basically see is that the 2016 Chevy Camaro Coupe in a convertible variant. And there is nothing more to that or anything surprising. The difference here is only in the retractable soft top and the changed position of the antenna.

Official Teaser Video

In addition, Chevrolet also released an official video to tease the upcoming premiere of the convertible Camaro Six. You can view it below. In it Chevy says that there’s only one button between the driver and the sky and that the Camaro Convertible will soon reveal all its secrets.

What is more, the company also stated that this will be the most innovative Camaro Convertible ever produced. And given the fact that we have already seen the pictures, we expect to see the innovations included mostly in terms of technology, engines and features.

Expectations

2016 Chevrolet Camaro Coupe debuted in May and by doing so it inspired the world with its beautiful forms and potent engines. The sixth gen Camaro has shed more than 200 pounds of its weight, thus achieving better driving experience and more responsiveness. So we definitely expect to see this approach applied in the convertible.

The range of engines for the coupe features six different powertrain combinations. The first one is found in the Camaro LT and it is the 2.0L Turbo, producing 275 horsepower (205 kW) and 295 lb-ft of torque (400 Nm).

The LT grade can be also equipped with the 3.6L V6 capable of 335 horsepower (250 kW) and 284 lb-ft (385 Nm) of torque. At last, the most powerful Camaro SS is powered by the 6.2L LT1 V8 engine rated at 455 horses (339 kW) and 455 lb-ft (617 Nm).

2016 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible will probably go on sale later this like its Coupe sibling.

It all goes down tomorrow. Stay tiuned!

Source: Chevrolet via www.camaro6.com

June 23, 2015

MR Racing Volkswagen Golf is Entirely Transformed

MR Racing Volkswagen Golf started as a simple Mk 7 GTD. When the tuners at MR Racing finished with it, we can say that it has nothing in common with its production siblings. And here it is why: the experts not only enhanced the visual appearance of the car, but also added more power to the output and created a special sound generator system, which produces a V8-like sound. There is more to that but you need to read further to get to know this version of the Golf better.

Sound Generator

The most interesting addition in this MR Racing Volkswagen Golf is the retrofit sound generator. It gave the diesel engine of the Golf more lusty and growling sound just like that one of a big V8.

If one installs the sound generator, then he or she can control it via an optional WLAN receiver using an Apple or Android smartphone app, which is even cooler. As a result we have a VW Golf fitted with MR Racing sound generator, integrated with a sports exhaust system with two 100mm tailpipes.

Engine

In addition, the stock engine of the Volkswagen Golf GTD received significant uprating in terms of power and torque. By the way, the 2.0-liter four-cylinder common-rail turbo-diesel produces 184hp (135kW) and 380Nm (280lb-ft) of torque without any modification.

However, with the addition of a K&N sports air cleaner and software remap, this MR Racing Volkswagen Golf is now capable of putting out 221hp (162kW) and 450Nm (332lb-ft).

Exterior

The customization does not end here. The specialists at MR Racing have added also a Rieger bodykit. It comprises of a new front spoiler lip and spoiler blade, as well as side skirts and a rear diffuser.

As a matter of fact, the MR Racing Volkswagen Golf looks a little bit wider. This visual appearance has been achieved with 40 mm wider front arch extensions from SRS-Tec.

Then the car was wrapped in an exclusive foil and fitted with in-house made MR14 alloy wheels in 9.0×20-inch ET45 size. They fill out the arches with the help of 235/30R20 Hankook Ventus S1 Evo tyres.

KW Variant 3 height-adjustable coil-over suspension is also there to support the new modifications. It features variable bounce and rebound control, that drops the ride height to add better look and handling.

Interior

At last, the interior received only one but major update! It is a Pioneer AVIC-F 60 DAB Navigation System with DVD function, which has been integrated into the centre console. This high-end solution has an interface that allows unrestricted utilization of all vehicle functions, like the reversing camera for instance.

Source: MR Racing

June 23, 2015

Maxi-Tuner MINI John Cooper Works is 260HP and 390NM Strong!

Maxi-Tuner MINI John Cooper Works is literally a supermini. It stands out with new exterior appearance and more power than ever. Based on the most powerful production MINI, the F56, this modified JCW has added numerous visual and performance upgrades. The package comprises of ‘MaxPower’ and ‘MaxSound’ kits and other additions to the exterior… but let’s see what has really happened here.

Exterior

The appearance of the Maxi-Tuner MINI John Cooper Works stands out due to some extra visual goodies. The car stands out as an extrovert due to its new front bumper with huge air intakes. The tuner also added sculpted side sills for more athletic appearance. At the rear we see a diffuser that frames its dual exhaust outlets.

Engine Uprated with MaxPower

The production version of the JCW F56 is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, which is 231 hp (170 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) strong.

Thanks to the in-house made MaxPower plug and play auxiliary ECU with bespoke wiring harness, Maxi-Tuner achieved a power boost of 260 hp (191 kW) and a peak torque increase of up to 390 Nm (288 lb-ft). This is an addition of 29 hp and 70 Nm.

The bigger output also results in crisper e-gas throttle response, better driving dynamics and faster acceleration against the stopwatch. However, the intelligent control electronics in the MaxPower box do not change the factory diagnostic and service functions.

This means that the engine temperature reaches the factory limits, the system reverts to standard parameters, retarding the ignition to reduce power.

MaxSound

Maxi-Tuner MINI John Cooper Works is also fitted with custom MaxSound sport exhaust system. This one contributes to a louder voice to match the enhanced performance. It is made from high quality stainless steel and features sport exhaust features 70 mm tube diameters and a remote control for the flap system. At last, Maxi-Tuner left both tailpipes operating despite of the flap position.

Source: MaxiTuner

June 23, 2015

Audi RS6 Avant Received Visual and Performance Upgrades By SCHMIDT Revolution Team

avant There is good news for everyone, who wants to upgrade with light alloy rims. As the fans know, the people at Volker SCHMIDT GmbH company in the German city of Bad Segeber, known also as SCHMIDT Revolution will do the work. And they will do it with the famous German precision and attention to the detail. We all know, that the choice of the proper trims is one of the hardest thing, when it comes to upgrading a vehicle, but the SCHMIDT Revolution team knows how it is done. And the evidence is Audi RS6 Avant.

The Avant, that comes with third generation 4.0-liter Bi-Turbo Charger V8 engine and All-Wheel-Drive system now received a special attention. The SCHMIDT Revolution team chose a set of Gambit rims: the set comes with great features, that combined together improve the handling and the overall smooth feeling of driving. And of course, the wheels have that unique look, that everyone will like. In fact, the wheels set brings and a speed release, measured at 330 km/h (205 mph), thanks to the Vmax system.

avant

Furthermore, the design was made by BEST Cars and Bikes at Viersen, Germany. And the people from Lower Rhine were good enough to make additional performance upgrades, that include adding additional horsepower, that is now measured at 680 hp (500kW). They also installed and a special exhaust system, that brings extra 15 hp. How cool is that? And let’s not forget the wonderful artwork, that covers the body. Now the Avant really looks badass. Would you dare try it out?

avant

Source: Audi

June 22, 2015

Jeep Renegade is Ready to Serve the Police Force

Jeep Renegade received its latest color scheme! Now the car, available with a total of 9 colors received and its latest: blue and yellow stripes. Familiar? Yes, you guessed it. Now the Renegade will also serve the police.

The striking Renegade police car is a result of a partnership between Jeep’s Swindon-based dealership , T H White Fiat Group Brand Centre and Wiltshire Police. And now, T H White agreed to offer extended six month test drive. And at the end of the test period, Wiltshire Police plans to buy the vehicle. In fact, the Renegade itself is already fitted with full police graphics, lights, siren and the special Gable Cross Police Station, Swindon.

The Renegade

The car comes with 1.6 Diesel Sport engine, that provides the best-in-class off-road ability and world-class dynamics and performance. The inside comes with numerous functional details, especially crafted from high-quality materials. There are also numerous colors, used in the cabin, which makes it cozy, but yet functional. Surely, the latest addition to the police force will offer incredible functionality and performance. But, if I have to be honest, I don’t want to be a passenger in this particular Renegade unit. It drives well, but after all it will bring me in only one spot: the police station.

renegade

Source: Jeep

June 22, 2015

Category: Auto News

The concept itself

Opel Mokka: Wide Choice and Big Capabilities

The Mini and the Beast

But this is not all

Styling Inspired by Costa Smeralda

Engine

Exterior

Interior

Engine

Official Teaser Video

Expectations

Sound Generator

Engine

Exterior

Interior

Exterior

Engine Uprated with MaxPower

MaxSound

The Renegade