Auto News – Page 378 – Automobiles Review

Nissan 370Z NISMO Roadster Concept Looks Dazzling and Ready to Go

Shown on Thursday during the Chicago Auto Show, the 370Z NISMO Roadster Concept managed to impress with its one-off bodylook and stylish appearance. This hotter version is just a performance study at this point but its potential for a production model is huge. The design of the Concept combines an open-air driving excitement of a standard 370Z Roadster and a racing-inspired vision as well as performance of a 370Z NISMO Coupe.

Just like Nissan 370Z Nismo coupe which was revealed last year, the new Roadster takes its power from an upgraded version of Nissan’s 3.7-litre petrol V6 engine. The unit receives a power-boost of 16 kW and 11 Nm over the standard 370Z which allows it to produce 350 HP (261 kW) and 374 Nm of maximum torque. The engine goes with NISMO suspension and updated brakes.

Fred Diaz, senior vice president, Nissan Sales & Marketing and Operations U.S., Nissan North America, pointed out that; “First, we’ve injected all the performance equipment from a 370Z NISMO Coupe. Inside, since the interior is on display whenever the top is down, it features the full NISMO treatment, as well as a few special custom touches.”

Nissan 370Z NISMO Roadster Concept gets a more aggressive face, beefed-up 19-inch NISMO super-lightweight forged aluminum-alloy wheels by RAYS (19×9.5-inch front, 19×10.5-inch rear), reworked LED daytime running lights and black headlight bezels. The rear end of the car has been redesigned as well and now it has a carbon fibre lip spoiler. Finally, the automatic roof has the same cloth material as the one used in the regular 370Z Roadster.

Taking the top down, we are presented with a well-crafted driving environment. The dramatic interior is highlighted by custom red stitching with NISMO logo, an Alcantara-appointed leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel and NISMO red tachometer.

If the 370Z NISMO Roadster Concept is approved for production, it will become yet another addition to the Nismo family, thus joining the current Nissan 370Z NISMO coupe model.

Source: Nissan

February 13, 2015

Mercedes-AMG GT3 Teased Before Its Debut

Back in November last year, Mercedes-AMG made an announcement regarding its new GT3 which is set to make its debut next month in Geneva. Now, the company has displayed two images of the same upcoming vehicle.

The two design sketches reveal an automobile which has wider body kit, underlined by flared wheel arches, a lot of additional air vents and a massive rear wing which brings more downforce to the rear axle. The new Mercedes-AMG GT3 is compliant with the FIA GT3 requirements and regulations and is going to hit the track for the 2016 season. This means that we are going to say goodbye to the SLS AMG GT3. When comparing it to the new model, SLS AMG GT3 racer exhibits less aggressive presence. So the new racer might really be a good replacement after all.

No technical and performance details have been shared so far. What we know for sure, though, is that everything will be unveiled soon as the GT3 will be brought to the 2015 Geneva Motor Show. After that, the Mercedes-AMG GT3 will go through an “intense testing and development period” in order to be reinforced and made ready for the FIA GT3 Championship season in 2016.

Source: Mercedes-AMG

February 13, 2015

GM Keeps it Simple and Stylish: Chevy Silverado Gets Official Custom Edition

Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Custom not only offers capability and dependability, but also adds a stylish package in the range of trucks Chevy is currently producing. The vehicle is based on the double-cab Silverado LS. The Custom package will enhance it so we get an entirely new model which runs on 20-inch aluminum wheels coupled with wide tyres. The new package also adds chrome bumpers, a body-colored top cap above the front bumper as well as chrome mirror caps and door handles. For those who are not keen on two-door vehicle, we have some good news. This latest Silverado has four full doors for easier access to the front and rear seats. And speaking of the seats, they are wrapped in special cloth.

Other features that are unique to this model are the tilt steering wheel, cruise control, power windows and door locks. Oh, and we must also mention the addition of the Chevy MyLink technology with 4G LTE WiFi, which ensure that passengers are connected to the Internet at any time.

2015 Silverado Custom is offered with two engines. The first one, the 5.3L EcoTec3 V-8, produces 355 horsepower (261 kW) and offers the best fuel economy of any V-8 pickup (up to 23 mpg highway). The second one is the 4.3L EcoTec3 V-6, with the most torque of any standard V-6.

Just like its siblings – all other Silverado 1500s, the Custom utilizes hydroformed, boxed, high-strength steel frame and a cab structure. The latter makes extensive use of high-strength steels. The truck also features a roll-formed steel box that is lighter and stronger than traditional stamped boxes.

2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Custom has a starting price of $33,820 USD and it is currently available in dealerships.

Source: Chevrolet

February 12, 2015

Techart Releases new Tuning Kit for Porsche 911 GTS Models

Techart’s new program for Porsche 911 Carrera GTS and 911 Carrera 4 GTS offers individualization options that can literally match any taste. Enhanced aerodynamic styling, driving performance, wheels and bespoke interiors are all key characteristics of the refined Porsches. There is also good news for those who will be visiting the auto saloon in Geneva, because the

The individualized exterior of the 911 GTS is all about styling and aerodynamics. Although there is subtle difference to the standard models, it is quite distinctive. Take a look at the new front spoiler which upgrades the original front apron of the car.

It also creates extra dynamics by visually lowering the body and reducing the aerodynamic lift at the front axle. Next, there is the elegant roof spoiler, the prominent rear spoiler and sharp profiled side skirts.

In terms of driving dynamics, Techart created performance equipment and wheels that add to the credentials of the car. The new sport exhaust systems add a sporty highlight to the rear of the 911 Carrera GTS. In addition, it also provides a racier soundscape at all speeds.

As a matter of fact, there are two different exhaust systems. Both are dynamically valve-controlled to adjust the sound according to the driving style. Besides the sport exhaust system with two twin tailpipes on each side, the second system has a motorsport-like appearance, meaning that it comes with two central tailpipes and an extraordinary audible presence.

The driving dynamics of the Porsche were further enhanced vie the new sport springs bring the 911 GTS body closer to the track. Furthermore, the electro-hydraulic TECHART Noselift system provides 45 mm of additional ground clearance at the push of a button by lifting the vehicle’s body at the front axle. This feature is perfect to overrun obstacles like garage ramps.

The huge amount of power of the Porsche is transmitted onto the road via forged Techart Formula IV Race center lock wheel. They have five twin-spokes wheel design and come in 20-inch size and standard bicolor finish in titanium grey with a gloss-turned front surface.

Inside, the tuners have also prepared some tweaks for the 911 GTS models. Take for example the individualized door entry guards or the multi-function sport steering wheels with paddle shifters. Of course, we can’t miss the aluminium-made sport pedals, contrasted decorative stitching, color-coordinated instrument dials, and a coupe wrapped in select leather. Nice work Techart!

Source: Techart

February 12, 2015

ABT Individual Makes Dreams Come True

ABT Sportsline developed an “Individual” programme which is more than just some body kits, engine upgrades and suspension features. This time, the components are designed in a way that make cars more individualized, unique and even extravagant. What is more, the exterior and interior of models that benefit from the tuning package gain exclusive proportions, dynamism and sophistication.

In terms of the exterior, the tuner offers individual body color, special wheel outlines, customized body parts, tailor-made engine performance upgrades and personal lettering on the exhaust pipes. Thanks to the ABT Individual, the interior arrives with leather upholstery which is smooth, back – stitched or suede. It can be found on seats, switches, steering wheels and under roofs. For more personalization, extra design elements, logos and special color combinations can be added too.

Hans-Jürgen Abt, CEO of the globally largest tuner of VW and Audi cars says that; “If you go to ABT Sportsline, you are looking for something special. And for some, even that is not enough. For this very exclusive group of customers we now have tailor-made solutions.”

According to the top manager, people who own a top model like Audi S8, RS6 or the new Q7, for example, would really appreciate an additional doze of exceptional individualization. One thing is for sure then: bespoke designs are what make car owners feel special when driving their unmatched vehicles.

Source: ABT

February 12, 2015

Cobra Accessories Adorn the new Mercedes V-Class and Vito vans

Cobra Mercedes V-Class

Cobra Technology & Lifestyle offers exclusive accessories for the new Mercedes V-Class and Mercedes Vito vans. The new components are designed with such precision that they not only enhance the vans visually but also serve to protect the body against damage. Benefiting from the goodies, both the exclusive V-Class lifestyle model and the Vito are designed mainly for commercial use. With the add – on conversion parts, the vehicles are able to demonstrate exciting appearance and active safety.

The upgrade package includes front guard that has a tube diameter of 60 millimeters and arrives in three surface finishes: chrome-plated stainless steel, a titanium-look finish, and coated with matte black plastic. This accessory feature serves to provide with protection against minor fender benders. Focusing on the idea of maximized safety, the German vehicle refinement specialist Cobra Technology & Lifestyle offer auxiliary high-beam headlamps. They come as a ready-to-install kit which is comprised of two different brackets for mounting the auxiliary lights either on the top or bottom tube of the front guard.

Additionally, Cobra Technology & Lifestyle Mercedes V-Class and Mercedes Vito vans receive an upgrade on the sides too. Thanks to the rocker panel guards that can be installed, the access and exit as well as the loading and unloading becomes much easier. The stainless-steel components are available for vans with one or two sliding doors and can be purchased in a matte black, chrome-plated or titanium-look finish. Another option, though, is the Cobra Technology & Lifestyle rocker panel guards that embrace the body, thus, protecting the sides of the van. They come in diameter of 60 millimeters and are available in a brushed stainless-steel version. Finally, the robust running boards for the V-Class and the Vito vans can be ordered with integrated LED entrance lights.

Source: Automediapool

February 12, 2015

Fresh Faced 2016 Chevrolet Equinox Revealed! [VIDEOS]

Chevrolet has just unveiled the contemporized 2016 Equinox. The updated version of the popular compact SUV includes new styling, new wheel designs and more optional safety features. Inside, there is larger color touchscreen radio and a standard rear-vision camera. The model will be offered in four trim levels: L, LS, LT and LTZ. As you can see from the pictures, the SUV has a new distinctive front fascia and chrome-accented dual-port grille design. This is because Chevrolet released the pictures of the LTZ trim only, which got these specifics. The same will be applied to the LT trim.

Furthermore, projector-beam headlamps are now standard on all models, while new daytime running lamps come only for the LT and LTZ, with reflector-style lamps on L and LS, and light-emitting diode (LED) lamps on LT and LTZ. The last trim will also get new fog lamps.

At the rear, we see restyled dual-element tail-lamps, revised license plate appliqué and lower rear fascia on all models. The new aluminum wheels range from 17- to 18-inches. Among many safety features are the optional Available Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. The seven-inch-diagonal Color Touch radio and rear-vision camera are now standard in the L and LS trims.

2016 Equinox has room for five passengers and is offered with an all-wheel drive offered on LS, LT and LTZ models. It features roomy interior with GM-exclusive MultiFlex sliding rear seat.

More importantly, the car is powered by a standard Ecotec 2.4L direct-injected engine. It delivers exceptional EPA-estimated fuel economy of 32 mpg on the highway (FWD models).The direct-injected 3.6L V-6 comes as an option of the LT and LTZ models, and produces 301 horsepower (225 kW) and 369 Nm (272 lb-ft) of torque. In addition, the V-6 engine also enables a trailering capacity of up to 3,500 pounds (1,588 kg).

LT and LTZ trims will also get as a standard the new MyLink technology, while OnStar with 4G LTE connectivity and built-in Wi-Fi hotpot is offered on all trim levels. 2016 Chevrolet Equinox is scheduled to go on sale this fall.

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httpv://youtu.be/S4zVkYTo_yY

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Chevrolet

February 12, 2015

B&B Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG is Capable of up to 450 HP/580 Nm

Mercedes CLA 45 AMG has received a B&B three-stage performance upgrade program. The result is substantial power increase from the standard 360 hp (265 kW) to 450 hp (331 kW) and a peak torque boost from 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) to 580 Nm (428 lb-ft). The first update for the CLA 45 AMG starts with a Stage 1 ECU remapping and includes revised fuel, ignition and turbo boost curves. In this stage the power and torque are raised to 400 hp (294 kW) and 510 Nm (376 lb-ft).

Stage 2 steps on the first one, adds air intake system with improved ram effect, and the B&B exhaust downpipe for reduced exhaust back-pressure and exhaust gas temperature. The ECU mapping is optimized, thus making this Mercedes capable of 425 hp (313 kW) and 540 Nm (399 lb-ft) of torque.

The ultimate conversion stage is the third one. It is centered on a bespoke turbocharger, enhanced cold air intake system and exhaust downpipe from Stage. There is also a bespoke ECU mapping which suits the new hardware. As a result we get 450 hp (331 kW) with 580 Nm (428 lb-ft) of torque.

In this tuned CLA 45 AMG jointed Racing Motor’s “World’s Fastest Sedan”, it would probably beat the Dodge. The stopwatch would witnesses a 0-100 km/h sprint in spectacular 3.8 seconds (instead of standard 4.6 seconds). The 0-200 km/h time is reduced from 17.1 to 14.3 seconds.

B&B also removed the 250 km/h top speed limiter. Thus, Stage 3 allows 296 km/h, and together with the improved sprinting ability, gives the luxury supercar performance without compromising.

B&B also added a high-efficiency oil cooling system, which uses the factory temperature thermostat and keeps engine’s life by giving lubricant from overheating in hard driving conditions. In addition, B&B exhaust downpipe sits between the turbocharger and exhaust system. It helps reduce backpressure and exhaust gas temperature, thus making it easing thermal stress on the engine, releasing an additional 15 kW/20 hp with no other modifications.

The cars stance and handling are lowered via the use of B&B sport spring set, which lowers the ride height by 30 and 25 mm at the front and rear respectively. On the other hand, the coil-over suspension kit for the CLA 45 AMG, allows the cars ride height and damper bounce and rebound to be set independently for road or track driving.

At last B&B needed something to balance the increased performance. They added a six-piston high performance brake system and B&B 8.5Jx20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 235/30ZR20 tyres.

Source: B&B Automobiltechnik

February 12, 2015

Nissan Invents LEAF EV that Glows in the Dark [VIDEO]

Nissan has just released a very interesting video showing the first car to have to glow-in-the-dark paint scheme. By doing this, the company writes history, being the first manufacturer to partner with similarly innovative inventor, Hamish Scott, to create paint that uses UV energy absorbed during daylight to glow at night. And of course the model to apply this new “color”-approach is the all-electric LEAF.

Hamish Scott is creator of STARPATH. This is a spray-applied coating that absorbs UV energy during the day. When the night falls, the absorbed energy glows for between eight and 10 hours.

The Japanese company not only offers glowing car paint, but also glow-in-the-dark car wraps, both made up of entirely organic materials. Precisely, the Scott used very rare natural earth product called Strontium Aluminate. It is solid, odorless and chemically and biologically inert.

Another very interesting fact about this paint is that if it is made commercially available, it would last for 25 years. Nissan LEAF owners have reported significant savings and are using the saved money for example for solar panels for their homes. This in turn decreases the household carbon footprint and means owners are also effectively charging their vehicle for free.

According to a recent research, 89% of LEAF owners charge their cars at home overnight. And here is the deal: solar panels do not store energy or provide it outside of daylight, but any leftover power which is generated during the day is fed back into the national grid. Homeowners then can get a Government payment for it, which simply means that the overnight charge is already paid for.

One of these lucky LEAF owners is Ian Finch. He has combined the savings offered by running an all-electric vehicle with solar panels to power his home. Here is a fascinating interview with him on LEAF charging using solar energy:

httpv://youtu.be/xM9XRn1amqQ

httpv://youtu.be/nKj2sEpg1xg

Source: Nissan

February 12, 2015

Racing Cowboys Tell Us Which is “World’s Fastest Sedan”. You Will be Surprised! [VIDEO]

Put six luxury sedans to the test in a three round racing competition in two different states. Although each vehicle has its strengths, only one should be announced “The Fastest Sedan” in the world! And undoubtedly, when one thinks of the world’s fastest car, he or she does not imagine luxury sedans. At the same time these beautiful machines run with more and more horsepower nowadays.

This is the reason why Racing Cowboys were tempted to put six of them to the test. The “stars of the show” were Mercedes-Benz S65, Aston Martin Rapide S, BMW M5, Jaguar XJR, Cadillac CTS-V, and the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat. Together they have the combined value of more than $800 000 USD!

One of the quickest ways to measure car’s performance is how fast it is and how much time it needs to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph. At first, Racing Cowboys started their elimination competition with two races. In the number one 0-to-60 race, the cars competing were the Mercedes, Cadillac and the Dodge, while in the second one the other three.

Those two cars that have shown the slowest results in each of the races were sent back home. Have you guessed which couple was eliminated first? Then the cowboys continued to the semi finals and finals, but we will not reveal any more details. You will be definitely surprised!

Watch the extensive video below and find out which is “World’s Fastest Sedan?”! You can also let us know what you think!

httpv://youtu.be/rSFtXsOIkLo

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Racing Cowboys

February 11, 2015

Tesla Beware! nanoFlowcell Quant F to produce 1090 HP and Effortlessly Cover 800 km?

Remember the nanoFlowcell Quant e-Sportlimousine which was introduced at the last Geneva Auto Show? Well, it is time for the next concept model in company’s portfolio which is dubbed nanoFlowcell Quant F Concept. This is an electric automobile which has a range of 800 km and shows exceptional performance. This almost sounds unbelievable, but we will see all coming true at this year’s auto saloon in Geneva, where the concept will make its official premiere.

The four-seater is an e-sports saloon equipped with nanoFlowcell drive technology. It is equipped with new two-speed automatic transmission that was developed in-house specifically to deliver impressive performance.

And so it does! The top speed here is estimated over 300 km/h in all-electric mode. But this means also zero harmful emissions! And here’s why this car is a big deal: the new QUANT F is not only environment-friendly, but also extremely powerful. Precisely it can produce up to 1090 hp (this equals 801.69 kW!)

The Quant F features an expressive red exterior color, but also integrates newly developed technical components. The enhanced nanoFlowcell continuously feeds over 50 amperes of current into the newly buffer system. In turn, this buffer system is briefly able to supply over 2000 amperes when needed for full performance.

On the other hand a carbon fibre monocoque made with a narrower A-pillar provides the electric beast with more spacious interior and elegant lines. At the same time it offers exceptional safety for four passengers and range of 800 km.

Yes, the 5.25-metre long sports saloon can cover a renage of over 800 km in all-electric mode alone! In addition, as an alternative drive system, the nanoFlowcell is operated with an ionic fluid. Instead of utilizing hydrogen and oxygen as in a conventional fuel cell, the company works with positive charge ionic fluid and one with a negative charge.

Another exclusive feature is the permanent 4×4 all-wheel drive. It is applied through a four electric motors, which can be converted automatically into a rear-wheel drive at appropriately high speeds or high acceleration rates. To this end the front axle is declutched and subsequently runs in idling mode.

Next, the 2-stage aerofoil needs to be mentioned as well. This feature is activated automatically when the car reaches a speed of 80 km/h, applying additional negative lift force to the rear wheels.

Source: nanoFlowcell

February 11, 2015

2016 Ford Police Interceptor Utility Revealed

Ford has just officially revealed the 2016 Police Interceptor Utility ahead of its Chicago debut tomorrow. The vehicle is to hit the streets with a fresh look and wide variety of features this summer. More importantly its building and the one of the Police Interceptor Sedan happened at Ford’s Chicago Assembly Plant. From there they will be shipped to markets across the world.

To create the latest and most innovative law enforcement vehicles, the company listened to experts such as the Police Advisory Board. The group supplied Ford with customer feedback and served as a pilot group for products, programs and services.

As a result we have the 2016 Ford Police Interceptor Utility which has new front and rear design, new headlamps, a new instrument panel and an enhanced electrical system that distributes electrical loads more efficiently.

As an option, there is the choice of Surveillance Mode technology, which warns the driver when someone approaches the back of the vehicle. If this happens, driver’s window automatically raises and all doors lock.

According to the feedback, Ford also added the liftgate release switch, which is accessible to occupants in the front. It allows the rear liftgate mechanism to remain unlocked for 45 seconds before timing out, permitting officers to access the cargo area. The new police vehicle will also benefit from a rear camera with washer and a four-inch screen in the center stack as a standard.

The power for the mighty automobile comes from the 3.7-liter V6 engine, which produces 304 horsepower (224 kW) and 39 Nm (279 lb.-ft.) of torque. The optional powerplant is the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 that generates 365 horsepower (268 kW) and 474 Nm (350 lb.-ft.) of torque. The Police Interceptor Utility comes as a standard with an all-wheel drive, which is designed to deliver low-speed traction, high-speed handling and stability.

Each unit is coupled with a standard six-speed transmission that features a Pursuit Mode. The transmission automatically switches from normal, fuel-saving operation to Pursuit Mode when it detects aggressive driving situations.

Furthermore, the new Police Interceptor is also equipped with custom brakes, which were designed to withstand excessive use. It runs on steady 18-inch steel wheels which have high venting characteristics to help cool the brakes. Larger-diameter springs are used in the suspension. Interior and exterior dimensions remain the same for the new model year.

Source: Ford

February 11, 2015

Category: Auto News