Auto News – Page 453 – Automobiles Review

Toyota i-Road Brings Zero-Emissions Motoring to Europe

Toyota i-ROAD is ready to transfer its credentials of being a purely concept vehicle to being one engaged in the real life. It is currently bringing the zero-emissions motoring to Europe’s crowded city centres. A fleet of its i-ROAD and COMS ultra-compact electric vehicles are set to prove how clean and easy urban motoring can be. The first city in which these three- and four-wheelers will appear by taking part in a major pilot programme, is the French city of Grenoble.

The project, in which Toyota is taking participation, is a three-year low-carbon car sharing scheme, which is aims to transform the way people plan and make local journeys. The company will supply 35 of each type of vehicle, thus contributing its harmonious mobility (Ha:Mo) system to manage the scheme day-to-day.

Of course, the local authorities in Grenoble have also supported the project. Precisely, the French power supplier EDF manages and maintains electric charging points as well as the well-established local car-share operator Cité lib.

From the beginning of next month, anyone who holds a valid driving licence can register with Cite Lib to gain access to the Toyota electric vehicles. The users have the opportunity to subscribe to the service and download an application on their devices to see the real-time location of vehicles that are charged and ready to use.

After that, he or she will be able to pick up their car and drop it off at a different location: exactly one of 27 charging stations in the greater Grenoble area. Of course, when the vehicle is dropped off, it is plugged into the station, thus being recharged and ready for the next customer.

This exclusive and innovative programme is a way of building a better-integrated public transport service. For instance, people can collect an electric vehicle from a location near their home or office and then drive to a local transport hub to continue their journey. At the same time, those who are arriving by bus or train can step into a car on arrival to complete their trip. The network of charging stations is connected to Grenoble’s transport network IT system, so the journey planning is even made easier.

Toyota i-ROAD utilizes clever Active Lean technology, which steers in a similar way to the movements of a skier (take a look at the pictures in the gallery below). The vehicle is not much larger than a motorbike or scooter. However, it is equipped with a full canopy that protects the driver and gives them a secure feeling and comfort of a car.

At last, Toyota confirmed future plans for the program. The company will collect data on technical issues and user behaviour during the pilot the programme, thus helping shape future mobility initiatives.

Source: Toyota

September 15, 2014

Toyota C-HR Crossover Concept Makes Debut At Paris Motor Show

Toyota C-HR Concept vehicle will make its international first world appearance at this year’s Paris Motor Show, which will take place between 2nd and 19th of October. The car, carrying rather a name typical for Honda vehicle, will reveal company’s innovative vision for a compact crossover model. Alongside the news for the debut, the company has released a teaser image as well. From it we can see the slim side of the car, as well as its futuristic angular LED taillights.

Toyota has revealed that the future C-HR SUV concept is an example of a combination of powerful new design language, engaging driving experience and a hybrid powertrain. From the picture released we can’t make many judgments, but the vehicle will definitely have sporty appearance. Just take a look at the rear spoiler which is mounted on the roof, as well as the front and rear windscreens. The flowing LED headlights create one-of-a-kind look at the front.

The compact crossover will probably go into production in 2017 and we are also expecting to see it equipped with two- and four-wheel-drive. Of course, the production variant will definitely support not only a hybrid powertrain, but also a petrol and diesel ones.

Toyota will host a press conference on its stand in Hall on 2nd of October where additional details around the C-HR will be revealed. Stay tuned!

Source: Toyota

September 15, 2014

New Euro 6 Eco-Friendly Peugeot Engines

Peugeot amazes us with even greater eco-friendly technology with the all-new Euro 6-compliant versions in its most famous models. Ever since late 2013 Peugeot uses the most effective technology for emission control on the market for all diesel models.The application of the new engines has reduced the CO2 emissions of Peugeot vehicles.

Equipped with technically advanced three-cylinder “PureTech” and 1.6-litre THP four-cylinder petrol engines, and with low emission “BlueHDi” diesels, all coming along with “Stop & Start” (S&S) technology. “Peugeot” vehicles now are one of the most environmentally efficient models in. Each engine is equipped with Peugeot’s highly effective, “Efficient Automatic Transmission 6” (EAT 6) transmission.

“PureTech” engines are the new 110 hp (82 kW) version, and a EAT 6 transmission for the 130 hp (96 kW) version. In 2014 the 110 hp (82 kW) and 130 hp hp (96 kW) turbo engines were added to the “PureTech”, next-generation three-cylinder petrol engines.The 2.0-litre BlueHDi engines systems offers some of the highest level of comfort along with “Quick Shift technology” which ensures effective drag reduction and a really smooth gear changing.

Peugeot’s 308 1.2-litre “PureTech” 130 S&S is equipped with a new EAT 6 6-speed automatic gearbox. Moreover the 308 1.2-litre “PureTech” 130 S&S EAT 6 reaches fuel consumption of 57.6 mpg UK (4.9 l/100 km) and 114 g/km of CO2.

The 1.6 litre BlueHDi 120 equipped with a manual six-speed gearbox now is available in more Peugeot vehicles:

Peugeot 208, with fuel consumption of 78.4 mpg UK (3.6 l/100 km) and 94 g/km of CO2.
Peugeot 2008, with consumption of 76.3 mpg UK (3.7 l/100 km) and 96 g/km of CO2, sets the record in the large B-segment.
Peugeot GEOT 3008, with consumption of 68.8 mpg UK (4.1 l/100 km) and 106 g/km of CO2, qualifies to the top rankings in the large C-segment, setting a record in the same segment for a manual transmission.
Peugeot 5008, with consumption of 67.2 mpg UK (4.2 l/100 km) and 109 g/km of CO2 is one of the leaders in the large C-segment.

Peugeot has installed that engine in the C and D segments:

Peugeot 508, the 2.0-litre BlueHDi 150 BVM 6 makes CO2 emissions of just 105 g/km for the Saloon and SW and has made its mark as the best technology in the D-segment.
Peugeot 508, the 2.0-litre BlueHDi 180 EAT 6 achieves 111 g/km of CO2, comes with one of the best exchanges between power and consumption in the segment.
Peugeot 3008, the 2.0-litre BlueHDi 150 boasts 64.2 mpg UK (4.4 l/100 km) and 114 g/km of CO2, making it too one of the best when it comes to power and consumption in the large C segment.
Peugeot 5008, the 2.0-litre BlueHDi 150 achieves 65.6 mpg UK and 113 g/km of CO2.

The Blue Hdi technology cosily meets the Euro 6 Diesel emissions standard and sets up a potential future emission standards.

Source: Peugeot

September 15, 2014

2015 GMC Sierra Carbon Editions With New Sporty Looks

Knowing that most full size truck buyers end up customizing their pickups right of the dealership lot, GMC is keen on tapping into some of this market with special edition models. After introducing the Sierra all-terrain earlier this year, GMC has now announced the 2015 GMC Sierra Carbon Edition will be available for customers to order starting next month. Offered in three variations, the lowest priced version of this package is the standard Sierra Carbon Edition.

Starting with base 2015 Sierra double cab, the Sierra Carbon Edition brings a more ominous look with its black painted grill and carbon fiber body graphics on the hood and tailgate.
Moving up the the Sierra Carbon 29 Edition, this truck adds more features by only being offered in as SLE trim level and like the previous model, it to only comes in the double cab body configuration. As the 20, in its name might suggest, the big difference that sets this version apart is the exceptional 20-inch wheels.

Finally, the Carbon 22 Edition, available on crew cab or double cab models gets the same styling upgrades with the inclusion of the outstanding 22-inch wheels, featuring a five-spoke design and a black accent at finish. This model also comes with black tubular side steps, remote start, dual-zone climate control and fog lights.

The Carbon 22 Edition Sporting Z 71 with 4×4 badges does not seem to be losing any of its ruggedness by adding the sporty new package. The glory of the new Sierra lies within its strength and sophistication. But for customers wanting to make an even better impression, the Sierra Carbon Edition models are the answer.

Options for the 2015 GMC Sierra Carbon Edition includes choice between two and four-wheel drive. A 4.3-liter EcoTec3 V-6 engine is standard, and brings up about 285 hp (212 kW), 305 lb-ft (413 Nm) of torque, and EPA highway ratings up to 24 mpg US (28 UK) (9.8 l/100 km). A 355 hp (264 kW), 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V-8 is optional.

Pricing for the 2015 GMC Sierra Carbon Edition starts at $33,075 for the standard model, while for the Carbon 20 Edition starts at $38,275, and if that’s enough the pricing for Carbon 22 Edition starts at $42,270.

Source: GMC

September 15, 2014

2015 Kia Soul EV Goes On Sale

After the successful “hamster” advertisement of the new 2015 Kia Soul EV, Kia Motors America is ready to introduce the electric vehicle to the market. The hugely popular urban passenger car in its electrifying trim boasts best-in-class EPA-estimated range of 93 miles and MPGe4 of 92 miles on the highway, 120 miles in the city and 105 miles combined. In addition, the model received industry-first automotive environmental validation by Underwriters Laboratory (UL) due to its innovative use of bio-based materials in the interior.

2015 Kia Soul EV is company’s first mass-market electric vehicle and it is the centerpiece of the Kia’s Clean Mobility program. The zero-emissions EV keeps the funky style and functionality of the Soul model, but it also introduces new and more aerodynamic styling cues.

The car features a 27 kWh lithium ion polymer battery which powers the electric motor. The motor produces 110 hp (81 kW) and 285 Nm (210 lb.-ft.) of maximum torque, and drives the front wheels. The range that it can cover is around 80-100 miles.

The standard specifications of the Soul EV Base include an array of features such as navigation, Rear Camera Display, Bluetooth hands free operation, power windows, power driver’s seat, cruise control, 6.6kW on-board charger. The exclusive HVAC system is also included, and it was designed to extend driving range by minimizing energy draw.

Moreover, every Soul EV comes standard with UVO EV Services that provide real-time battery-level status, distance to empty, and the ability to search for nearby charging stations. There is also an UVO EV smartphone app, which owners can use to preset charging time and charging level ratios, as well as precondition the vehicle cabin with remote control of the HVAC presets.

The next trim is called Soul EV Plus and it adds EV-unique leather trimmed seats, which are tri-level heated and ventilated for front passengers. The rear outboard seats are heated for added comfort. The Plus also includes projection-style fog lamps and power-folding outside mirrors.

2015 Kia Soul EV has a starting price of $33,700 USD and is currently available to order.

Source: Kia

September 12, 2014

Vorsteiner BMW M6 Aero Package

Shady, twisted and frightening that’s everything there is about this Black Sapphire BMW M6 with a Vorsteiner aero kit and wheels. Black color always looks good on a BMW, and by far this is undoubtedly the most breathtaking we have seen. This tuning project is done by “Turner Motorsports”, and the tuning set shows us how correctly made and manufactured aero parts look like. A set of Vorsteiner BMW F13 M6 features aero parts: like a front spoiler, rear diffuser and deck lid spoiler.

With a set of Special Edition Forged VSE-003 Forged Monoblocks like: Wheel Finish: Matte Gunmetal along with wheel Size: 9.5J x 21” front, 11J x 21” rear, respectively.

BMW M6 F13 Coupe is powered by a 4.4 liter twin-turbocharged V8 petrol (code: S63B44TU) – 560HP (412 kW) at 6,600RPM and 680Nm (502 lb-ft) of torque at just 1,500RPM. 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds , 0-200 km/h in 12.0 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited or 300 km/h (186 mph) with ///M Drivers package. The engine is coupled with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox sending the power to the rear wheels. ¼ mile in 11.7 to 11.9 seconds.

The curb weight is 1,850 kg (4,079 lbs) and the powerful sports coupe is able to cover 100 km with just 7.6 liters on Highway.

2014 BMW M6 F13 Coupe is priced from $ 112,450 in the US.

Source: Vorsteiner

September 12, 2014

2015 Nissan GT-R NISMO Enters the Gran Turismo6

2015 Nissan GT-R NISMO is now available in Gran Turismo6 and is free to download for all GT Academy entrants. The collaboration between Nissan and Sony Computer Entertainment Europe has made this possible for fans of the automaker and popular game. The GT-R NISMO is the ultimate articulation of the R35 GT-R. The car was first released in 2007, and since then the Japanese team of designers and engineers have been meticulously honing the GT-R’s performance with each version of the car that has followed.

At the GT Academy 2014 European Race Camp at Silverstone, the 2015 Nissan GT-R NISMO made an appearance, where it was also announced that the car would be made available for purchase from the in-game dealership. What is more, for all of the GT Academy fans, Nissan has made the car free to download. The only requirement for the Gran Turismo6 player is he or she to have had entered the GT Academy 2014 competition.

Nissan GT-R Nismo is powered by the 3.8 liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine which produces 600 horsepower (441 kW) at 6,800RPM and 654Nm (481 kW) at 3,200RPM. It covers the acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.6 seconds on its way to a top speed of 311 km/h (193 mph). The powertrain is connected to a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission sending the power to the four-wheel drive system (4WD).

The Nismo also features advanced aerodynamics which generate additional 100kg of downforce at 300km/h (186mph) for stunning road-behavior. The real road version of the Nissan GT-R NISMO is currently being delivered in Japan. The car is also now on sale in the United States and Europe and the deliveries are scheduled for October.

Source: Nissan

September 12, 2014

Wald International Maserati Ghibli Black Bison Edition

Wald International has published two teaser images of their latest project based on Maserati Ghibli. The saloon is going to get the famous Black Bison package including a number of styling upgrades.

The exterior comes with modified front and rear bumpers as well as a pair of bigger side skirts and a set of new two-tone big alloy wheels. The front bumper features interesting air intakes and vertical LED DRLs (daytime running lights). There is also a new rear diffuser housing quad sports exhaust system. Last, but not least is the boot lid spoiler. There are also several “Black Bison” badges.

The interior features new leather upholstery, branded floor mats and some carbon fiber trim elements. No words about pricing as well as performance upgrades.

The top-of-range Maserati Ghibli S Q4 is powered by a 3.0 liter turbocharged V6 with 410HP (299 kW) at 5,500RPM and 550Nm (407 lb-ft) of torque at 1,750RPM. The power is put on the road through an 8-speed automatic gearbox and AWD (all-wheel drive) system. 0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and a top speed of 284 km/h (178 mph). The curb weight is 1,870 kg (4,128 lbs).

Source: Wald

September 12, 2014

Mercedes-Benz CLA Gets Ready for 2015 with More Features

Mercedes-Benz CLA is getting enhanced for the 2015 model year with more technical features, appointments and available options. The most important changes made by the German company include modifications regarding safety, comfort, infotainment, ambience and output. In teerms of comfort Mercedes is offering the optional extra of KEYLESS-GO. This feature allows for keyless starting as well as opening and locking. The access and drive authorisation system makes this possible only via carrying the electronic key on one’s person.

The safety of the 2015 CLA will be additionally strengthened via the COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, which extends the functions of COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST by addition autonomous partial braking. The latter helps reduce the risk of rear-end collisions. For instance, if a driver couldn’t act when the risk of a collision is detected, despite the warning light and audible alerts, the system automatically triggers the partial braking.

Furthermore, the standard ATTENTION ASSIST system has been upgraded. It operates within an extended speed range of 60 – 200 km/h and utilizes a five-stage bar display to visualize the driver’s current attention level. Next, Traffic Sign Assist now recognizes additional traffic signs, speed limits and no-overtaking restrictions.

The infotainment of the CLA will benefit from the next gen of telematics which include even more intuitive controls, animated menus and visual representations on the head unit display. As an option, Mercedes-Benz is offering an 8 inch free-standing display.

In addition, “Mercedes connect me” standard services are provided as part of the basic specification, but they can also be enhanced via other options. Convenience Telephony will be able in the future to connect in to high-speed LTE networks, while the standard Media Interface allows the connection of Apple devices using the “Apple Lightning” interface.

The occupants of the model will enjoy the improved ambient lighting system that now offers twelve colour schemes that can be selected to suit taste and mood. The trim is available in a satin-finish light brown poplar wood variant. AMG 19-inch multi-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in black and with a high-sheen finish will come as optional equipment.

At last, but not least, the CLA 220 CDI comes with an extra 5 kW (6.8 horsepower). This means that this particular model will be capable of delivering 177 hp (130 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft). The acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h is now covered in 8.2 s, and the top speed is 232 km/h. The combined consumption is rated at 4.0 l/100 km, while the CO2 emissions – at 104 g/km. Mercedes-Benz CLA 180 CDI has now emissions of only 99 g CO2/km.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

September 12, 2014

2015 Nissan 370Z NISMO is the Official Safety Car at Circuit of the Americas

2015 Nissan 370Z NISMO in a special livery will be of service at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, being the official Safety Car. The Continental Tire SportsCar Challenge (CTSCC) race will happen on 19^th of September. In addition, Nissan will enter four cars in the race. Precisely, these will be two Nissan 370Z NISMOs and two Altima 3.5 racers. They will be in the CTSCC field behind the beautiful NISMO Safety Car.

2015 Nissan 370Z NISMO debuted in May at the ZDAYZ event, incorporating a range of design and engineering improvements. The car embodies the essence of performance motoring, and part of this is due to the added design changes and new aero package.

The 2015 model year 370Z NISMO features an entirely redesigned front bumper with larger air intake, additional air inlets ahead of the wheel arch and new LED daytime running lights. Other updates include black headlamp bezels, special red NISMO trim at the base of the bumper, redesigned side sill and door mirror and special NISMO badging.

To further emphasize the sportiness of the car, Nissan have equipped it with 19-inch Rays alloy wheels finished in black and silver. At the back of this car one can see a new bumper and spoiler design. 370Z NISMO’s aero package includes a smaller rear spoiler that works in team with the new front bumper.

2015 Nissan 370Z NISMO is driven by the 3.7-litre six-cylinder engine, which produces 344 horsepower (253 kW) and is matched to a six-speed manual gearbox. The 0-100 km/h acceleration time of the car is just 5.2 seconds.

Source: Nissan

September 12, 2014

2015 HSV GTS Maloo – 585HP and 740Nm

HSV(Holden Special Vehicles) has unveiled the limited edition powerful GTS Maloo. The interesting vehicle will be limited to just 250 units – 240 for Australia and 10 for New Zealand with first deliveries expected in November, this year. No words about pricing, yet.

The GTS Maloo comes with an aggressive exterior package including a new front bumper with LED DRLs (daytime running lights) and honeycomb mesh grille. There is also a four-tailpipe exhaust system and a set of 20” forged alloy wheels fitted with low-profile performance tires taking care of traction. There is also a remote locking hard bed cover.

The interior boasts sport leather seats, a sport multi-functioning steering wheel and aluminum pedal set. There are also new gauges, carbon fiber trim and a MyLink infotainment system with GPS SAT NAV.

The engine is the well-known 6.2 liter LSA supercharged V8 – 585HP (430 kW) and 740Nm (546 lb-ft) of toque. It is connected to a 6-speed manual gearbox or an optional 6-speed automatic transmission sending the power to the rear wheels.

Other highlights include a sports suspension, big brake system and an LSD (limited slip differential). There is also a TVS (torque vectoring system) improving the handling and reducing the understeer.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NM9xYeN7hsM

Source: HSV

September 12, 2014

Peugeot 208 HYbrid Air 2L Demonstrator Achieves 141 mpg

Peugeot 208 HYbrid Air 2L Demonstrator is a vehicle capable of achieving the impressive fuel economy of 141 mpg. In addition, it also has the lowest CO2 emissions on the average, measured at just 111.2g/km. This special car will be debuting at next month’s Paris Motor Show. The 2L in its name stands for two litres per 100km. This Peugeot is based on the 208 1.2-litre PureTech 5-seater Hatchback, but obviously promises to go step further.

In order to achieve this high fuel economy, the company has utilized technologies previously reserved for competition and luxury models. First of all, the car weighs only 860 kg – this is 100 kg less than the production car. This reduction is a result of the mix of steel, aluminium and composites.

What is more, carbon composites are used for the body panels, sides, doors and roof, which also contributes towards the weight savings. The new coil springs improve the suspension. In terms of aerodynamics, the car has been also finely tuned. Many improvements were made resulting in reduced drag and of course lower stance on the road.

Some of the existing parts were redesigned. For instance, the thickness of the stainless steel exhaust system was changed, enabling a 20% improvement on this part alone. The standard powertrain has been replaced by a hybrid drive system. It includes a mix of petrol and compressed air.

In addition, the HYbrid Air technology features two types of energy to achieve perfect efficiency. Compressed air is utilized to assist and even replace the petrol engine to enable maximum efficiency during transition phases. Precisely, this system comprises of a compressed-air tank located below the boot, low-pressure tank near the rear axle acting as an expansion chamber and a hydraulic system consisting of a motor and a pump in the engine bay.

Moreover, since the hydraulic system is made of two different energy sources, bespoke epicyclic transmission delivers the best balance between them. This also allows for the utilization of automatic transmission.

In Air (ZEV) mode, the car runs on compressed air alone. This means that running under this mode, the vehicle do not consume fuel or emits any CO2. In Petrol mode, the car is driven only by the 1.2-litre petrol engine, which is suitable for travelling at a steady speed on main roads and motorways. At last, the Combined mode is designed for transition phases in urban environments, such as standing starts and acceleration, because it draws on the two energy sources in proportions adjusted to achieve maximum fuel consumption.

Source: Peugeot

September 12, 2014

Category: Auto News