Category: Auto News

Auto news – automobile industry news. Articles about all the latest car models and concepts. Breaking news, uncovered secrets.

  • Exclusive: Detroit Electric SP:01 Unveiled!

    Detroit-Electric-SP-01-THUMBDetroit Electric is officially back on the market with the disclosure of their emissions-free Detroit Electric SP:01 limited-edition. The two-seat pure-electric sports car aims to set new standards in terms of performance and handling in the electric vehicle (EV) segment. Only 999 examples of this EV will be built at Detroit Electric’s new production facility in Wayne County, Michigan.

    The electric model has an impressive 155 mph (249 km/h) top speed and is capable of covering the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint in only 3.7 seconds. This literally makes the SP:01 the world’s fastest pure-electric production car.

    The EV’s astonishing performance is due to its excellent power-to-weight ratio. The rear-wheel-drive SP:01 includes a compact, mid-mounted 201 hp (148 kW) electric motor that delivers 225 Nm (166 lb-ft) of torque. Adding to this are the lightweight, purpose-designed battery pack and all-new carbon-fibre bodywork. The result is that the total weight is only 2,354 lb.

    The Detroit Electric model is based on a strong lightweight aluminium platform, and features carbon-fibre bodywork, specialised performance-tuned suspension, steering and brake systems. They contribute to car’s class-leading ride and handling characteristics.

    The innovative powertrain generates an electromagnetic field around the rotor shaft, which then spins at varying speeds to drive the wheels. Moreover, the person behind the wheel can select one of four gear ratios in order to achieve maximum acceleration.

    Furthermore, the battery has an impressive energy storage capacity of 37 kWh, which gives the SP:01 a range of almost 190 miles between recharges. Full charge is achieved in 4.3 hours.

    Vehicle’s bespoke bodywork is constructed entirely of carbon fibre, and its angular lines and muscular stance gives it bold, imposing design while at the same time they also optimize the aerodynamic efficiency. The one-piece front panel for instance includes sharply contoured bonnet and angular front fenders with imposing air-intakes.

    At the rear, the compact rear light cluster resembles those of high-performance American sports cars of the past. There can also be seen integrated side cooling ducts. In addition, a transparent inspection window displays the vehicle’s impressive battery technology.

    What is more, the interior of the vehicle combines combines luxurious refinement with advanced technology. Here are to be found carbon-fibre and specially selected leather finishes. The cabin of the SP:01 includes innovative technologies as well. The infotainment system of the car is named “SAMI” which stands for Smartphone Application Managed Infotainment system.

    The latter provides access to functions such as music player, satellite navigation, interior lighting adjust and vehicle systems status. SAMI can also be utilized as a remote control unit which helps the owner locating the vehicle, turning the climate control system or checking the charge status.

    An all-disc braking system, coupled with ABS (anti-lock braking) and ESP (Electronic Stability Control) comes here as a standard. What is more exceptional however is the Regenerative Braking technology that sets the car apart, underpinning superb stopping performance while ensuring greater energy efficiency.

    Detroit Electric SP:01 will have a starting price of $135 000 USD.

    Source: Detroit Electric

  • 2014 Range Rover – US Price $63,495

    2014 Range Rover - Front Angle

    The new 2014 Range Rover Sport is now available in the US with starting price of $63,495. The customers can also configure their future vehicle online.

    For now, the configurator allows you to opt for the V6 variant, 7-seat arrangement, blind spot monitor, park assist, surround camera, adaptive cruise control and an off-road package.

    The 5+2 seating layout is priced at $2,750, while the Extra Duty Package costs $1,300. It includes automatic Terrain Response and a two-speed transfer case. Another $2,000 will cost the rear seat entertainment and $2,100 sticker for the Climate Comfort and Visibility Package which includes heated front/rear seats, 16-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, adaptive headlights and heated windshield. Other option is the Meridian Premium Audio system – $1,950.

    The fully-loaded V6-powered SE variant can be configured up to $77,850 USD.

    Source: Land Rover

  • Lancia Delta S by Momodesign Launched

    Lancia-Delta-S-by-Momodesign-THUMBLancia Delta S by Momodesign is the new special series vehicle which was born out of the collaboration of the two brands. The model targets the male metropolitan customer, who is looking for a distinctive style.

    In addition, the new Lancia model has advanced aesthetics due to the chromatic interventions that reflect the stylistic features of the products designed by Momodesign. In addition, the car can be equipped with a choice of wide range of high-performance engines.

    First, there is the 190 hp (140 kW) 1.9 Twin Turbo MultiJet engine which is at the top of the range and delivers sporty performance. It has a peak torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) at 2,000 rpm, which results in a top speed of 222 km/h and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds. Secondly, the 120 hp (88 kW) 1.6 MultiJet is the perfect instance of the “downsizing” construction philosophy that mixes brilliant torque with low consumption.

    Next, the 120 hp (88 kW) 1.4 Turbo Jet LPG is the only Turbo LPG engine in its category, which in addition is eco-friendly but agile, and has a range of over 1,400 km. At last, there is also available the 120 hp (88 kW) 1.4 Turbo Jet delivering low running costs.

    In terms of exterior, Lancia Delta S by Momodesign plays with colour contrasts in order to highlight even more the details. Some of the aesthetic features include side skirts and bumper in the same shade as the body, “dark-chrome” finishes, burnished headlights, 18″ rims finished with dark shadow treatment, twin chrome exhaust pipe and gloss black tailgate.

    On the latter is positioned the letter “S” shines which signifies the special series and synthesizes its positioning based on three main values: Style, Substance and sports Seduction. Moreover, the new Delta S will be offered in additional two new colours: the metallic Antracite Grey and Antracite Grey/Eclissi Black two-tone. They will be featured next to the already available colours: Zenit White, Magma Black and the Zenit White/Eclissi Black two-tone.

    Adding to this, the interior is elegant and expresses an energetic and dynamic personality. The same stylistic elegance of the exterior is translated here: the gloss black central console, speedometer with yellow shades and special sporty leather and fabric seats with blue stitching, blue stitching on the steering wheel, gear lever gaiter, handbrake lever and door panels.

    Furthermore, there is also generous standard equipment included: cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, electrically operated mirrors, leather steering wheel with music controls and front armrest.

    Prices for the Lancia Delta S by Momodesign start from 23 400 Euros for the 120 HP 1.4 Turbo Jet version; 25 400 Euros for the 120 HP 1.4 Turbo Jet LPG engine; 26 400 Euros for the two MultiJet turbodiesel engines: 190 HP 1.9 Twin Turbo MultiJet and 120 HP 1.6 MultiJet.

    Source: Lancia

  • 2013 Volkswagen Golf VII GTI – Price £25,845

    Volkswagen has announced the price list for the new 2013 Golf VII GTI, which is now available on the UK market. The hot hatchback is priced from £25,845, which makes it just £195 more expensive than the outgoing 6th generation Golf GTI.

    The Golf VII GTI is powered by a 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol with 220HP (162 kW) and 350Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 6-speed manual gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 246 km/h (153 mph).

    In case the customer opts for the GTI Performance, the hot hatch will get another 10HP more, larger brake discs and a front limited-slip differential. The option is priced at just £980, which makes it excellent bargain. The additional power will accelerate the car to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds and add another 4 km/h in top speed – 250 km/h (155 mph).

    Standard equipment of the new Golf GTI includes dual-zone climate control, sporty seats with Jacara cloth upholstery, sports steering wheel, black roof lining, red ambience lightning, stainless steel pedal caps, bespoke instrument cluster and gear lever, along with a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, iPod and DAB digital radio connectivity.

    Options are 19” Santiago alloy wheels, ‘Vienna’ leather upholstery, keyless entry, High Beam Assist, Lane Assist, Park Assist (parking sensors are standard), a rear view camera, ACC Adaptive Chassis Control, touchscreen satellite navigation and a Dynaudio sound pack with 10-channel amplifier and eight speakers.

    Source: Volkswagen

  • Rolls-Royce Art Deco Phantom Debuts In Jakarta

    Rolls-Royce-Art-Deco-Phantom-THUMBRolls-Royce Art Deco Phantom has made an official debut in Jakarta. The collector’s luxury car is one of only 35 cars in the world that celebrates the significant artistic movement known as Art Deco. This movement was prominent in the beginning of the 20th century and has defined it, and nowadays is making a renaissance in design and art circles.

    The Art Deco Collection of Rolls-Royce is in fact unique series of bespoke cars, beautifully designed to express elegance and exceptional capabilities. The Phantom was the perfect canvas for this artistic project and in addition it exudes all that the Art Deco style is about.

    As a matter of fact, the artistic movement employed futuristic crystallized motifs referencing Greek classicism and Egyptian relics mixed with the dynamics of the age of the machine and streamlined automotive liberation. Its influence can be even seen very well in architecture, automotive design, marketing, ceramics and furniture making.

    Source: Rolls-Royce

  • BMW ///M6 Gran Coupe MotoGP Safety Car

    BMW has revealed the the M6 Gran Coupe MotoGP Safety Car. The manufacturer has been involved in MotoGP since 1999 and provides the official Safety Cars. The vehicle will make its official appearance this weekend during the Grand Prix of Qatar.

    The high-performance BMW M6 Gran Coupe is a premium product, which combines outstanding performance with captivating aesthetics and luxurious elegance. The latest top model to emerge from BMW M GmbH is powered by a high-rev V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology. The maximum output is 560HP (412 kW) and 680Nm (502 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) or 305 km/h (189 mph), when fitted with the optional M Driver’s Package. The engine is coupled with a 7-speed M double-clutch gearbox.

    In total, the fleet of official MotoGP cars for the 2013 season comprises five BMW M and M Performance models. As well as the BMW M6 Gran Coupe, the BMW M6 Coupe and the BMW M5 will also be in action as Safety Cars. The Safety Officer will take to the track in a BMW M3 Coupe, while two BMW M550d xDrive Tourings will be used as medical cars. BMW Motorrad will also provide two new BMW HP4s as Safety Bikes.

    Source: BMW

  • Prior Design Audi R8 GT850 Exudes Wider On-Road Presence

    Prior-Design-Audi-R8-GT850-THUMBPrior-Design-Audi-R8-GT850-651The attention of the tuners at Prior Design has recently been directed towards the enchanting Audi R8. The latter has great strength thanks to the massive V10 engine that is hidden under its hood.

    This means that Prior Design Audi R8 GT850 offers exceptional performance. The 5.2 litre engine is capable of generating 525 hp (386 kW) and 530 Nm (391 lb-ft) of torque. On the road these numbers mean that the Audi will accelerate from stand still to a 100km/h in only 4.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 194mph.

    Having all these facts in mind, the tuning specialist decided to give the R8 a new widebody appearance. They have created especially for it the Audi R8 PD GT850 Widebody Aerodynamic-Kit.

    In particular, the kit includes the following elements: PD GT850 front bumper, PD GT850 front lip spoiler (for PD GT850 front bumper), PD GT850 side skirts, PD GT850 rear bumper, PD GT850 rear diffusor, PD GT850 front fenders, PD GT850 rear widenings, PD GT850 front bonnet, PD GT850 rear trunk spoiler.

    All of the elements are made from quality Dura-Flex FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) material which has excellent surface finish that provides sufficient flexibility combined with high stability and allows for easy and inexpensive painting. In addition, the parts are all made with excellent fitment with no modifications or changes needed.

    Source: Prior Design

  • BMW X4 Concept [leak images]

    Here are some interesting leak images – BMW X4 Concept, which is set to make its public appearance at the 2013 Shanghai Motor Show.

    The SAC (Sports Activity Coupe) looks a lot like its bigger brother – the X6. BMW X4 Concept boasts a sporty front end featuring a prominent grille, sporty front fascia and LED-infused headlights. There is also a sculpted front hood, a very distinctive roof line and a dual exhaust system.

    Actually, the manufacturer has revealed their plans to build the new X4 in Spartanburg, South Carolina. The model is still not confirmed for the market, but it is expected in the beginning of the next year.

    The engine range will include  the well-known power unit from the X3 – the TwinPower Turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 245HP as well as the 3.0 liter TwinPower Turbo I6 with 306HP.

    Stay tuned for official images and information!

    Source: Autowp

  • Chevrolet Camaro Convertible Hot Wheels Edition

    Chevrolet has introduced the Camaro Convertible Hot Wheels Edition. The special cars be driven around to help promote the iconic Indianapolis 500 race.

    The manufacturer will also offer the Camaro Convertible Hot Wheels Edition at dealerships this spring.

    The sports car boasts a nice Kinetic Blue exterior with a ZL1-inspired aerodynamics package as well as a set of enormous 21” alloy wheels fitted with low-profile performance tires.

    The interior comes with minor changes – embroidered leather seats, special floor mats and “Hot Wheels Edition” sill plates.

    The Camaro Convertible Hot Wheels Edition will be available with two engine options – a 3.6 liter V6 with 323HP (241 kW) or an enormous 6.2 liter V8 with 426HP (318 kW) and 569Nm (420 lb-ft) of torque.

    Source: GM

  • 2013 Smart edition21 – Price £9,575

    The new Smart edition21 has been introduced in the UK. The small car is available in both version – coupe and cabriolet.

    This special edition is based on the Pulse trim level with 71HP (53 kW). Some of the extras include a black tridion safety cell and mirror caps, a set of double-spoke 15” alloys and some “edition21” logos. There are also LED daytime running lights.

    The interior boasts black fabric/leather-like upholstery, cup holder and a leather-wrapped sports steering wheel featuring shift paddles.

    The coupe is priced from £9,575, while the cabrio is a little more expensive – £11,075.

    Representative example: smart fortwo edition21 coupe 71bhp mhd.

    36 monthly payments of¹ £79
    Customer deposit £1999
    On-the-road price £9,575
    Retailer deposit contribution £722
    Duration of agreement 36 months
    Optional purchase payment² £4,010
    Amount of credit £6,854
    Total amount payable³ £9,575
    Acceptance fee £0
    Purchase activation fee £0
    Fixed Interest Rate 0.00%
    Representative APR 0%

    Source: Smart

  • Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series – Price €249,900

    Mercedes-Benz has announced the pricing of the upcoming 2014 SLS AMG Black Series. The will cost whopping €249,900 in Germany. The manufacturer will also introduce the model in Australia, where it is priced from 639,000 AUD.

    The SLS AMG Black series is powered by an updated 6.2 liter AMG V8 with 631HP (464 kW) at 7,400RPM and 635Nm (470 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 315 km/h (196 mph). The SLS-AMG Black Series is just 1550 kg, so the power/weight ratio is 2.45 kg/hp.

    Other highlights include coil-over AMG RIDE CONTROL performance suspension, AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system and the weight-optimized forged AMG light-alloy wheels with newly developed sports tyres. There is also an electronically controlled AMG rear-axle differential lock and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission.

    Optionally, customers can be supplied with the AMG Aerodynamics package.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • Skoda Fabia Monte Carlo TECH Limited Edition – 1000 Units

    Skoda has presented their new limited edition model – 2013 Fabia Monte Carlo TECH, which is available in two striking colour combinations – red with a black roof or white with a black roof.

    The Fabia Monte Carlo is limited to just 1,000 units. It benefits from a state-of-the-art Amundsen satellite navigation system and Bluetooth connectivity at no extra cost to the customer.

    Other highlights include a sports-styled exterior – a piano-black body trim, black door mirror covers, a black radiator grille top, smoked headlamps and black 17” lightweight Trinity alloy wheels.

    The interior boasts all black sports seats with additional side support. Both Monte Carlo Tech versions come with black roof lining, a perforated leather steering wheel with red stitching, and a leather handbrake and gearstick gaiter. To complete the look, silver kick plates and steel pedals are fitted as standard.

    The engine range includes two variants – a 1.2 litre TSI with 105HP (77 kW) and a 1.6 liter TDI with the same power. Sales of each will be restricted to just 500 units. The cars are priced £11,990 and £12,960, respectively.

    Source: Skoda