Auto News – Page 712 – Automobiles Review

Nissan e-NV200 and NV200 London Taxi at the Commercial Vehicle Show

Nissan is going to present two new vehicles at the 13^th annual Commercial Vehicle Show at the NEC Birmingham. The e-NV200 and NV200 London Taxi will make their official debut.

The e-NV200, Nissan’s first 100% electric van will make its UK debut at the show. It has already won praise with fleet operators for zero CO₂ at the point of use, driving comfort and generous carrying capacity and payload.

With prices at the pump continuing to rise, one of the biggest benefits of the eNV200 will be the long term cost savings that can be made by charging the van with electricity rather than filling up with diesel.

The NV200 Taxi has been modified to accommodate a wheel chair passenger and achieve a 25ft (7.6m) turning-circle – a legal requirement for all Hackney Carriages.

Built in response to strong fleet and business demand, the new and highly affordable entry-level version of the popular Navara double cab pick-up will be exhibited on the Nissan stand. The Navara Visia has been carefully developed to offer operators a practical, robust and capable pick-up at a price that’s in tune with the times.

“We’re looking forward to showing the eNV200 to the public and offering a glimpse into the future of vans and their potential low running costs. Fleets that have recently tested the eNV200 have given us excellent feedback and we’re now excited to see the response from the public.”, commented Jon Pollock, Nissan GB corporate sales director.

“Since we will not only be featuring the eNV200 and NV200 London Taxi in the UK for the first time but also showcasing one of the widest ranges of available commercial vehicles of any manufacturer present, we’re confident Nissan will have one of the most exciting stands at the show.”, he finished.

Source: Nissan

March 18, 2013

SR Auto Enhances Aston Martin DBS

SR Auto Aston Martin DBS is a true masterpiece showing off its sophisticated spirit and included enhancements. Being a true DBS behind the hood of this model hides a hand-built all alloy 6.0-litre V12 engine.

The latter generates 510 bhp (380 kW) and 570 Nm (420 lb-ft). This power gives the possibility for the model to have a top speed of 191 mph (307 km/h) and to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) in only 4.3 seconds.

On the other hand, Aston Martin is a brand that screams for unprecedented luxury and class and an undeniable attention to quality. For this reason, the specialist at SR Auto decided to work on this project with the same level of quality and care.

They have equipped the British vehicle with PUR 9INE Wheels that include a two tone finish on their ninth application. They are in sizes 21×9 for the front and 21×10.5 for the back. In addition, they have also been paired with a set of H&R lowering springs that eliminate all the natural wheel gap.

Source: SR Auto

March 18, 2013

Petrolicious: Never Enough Alfa [VIDEO]

The team at Petrolicious has just released their latest project showing the 1972 Alfa Romeo Berlina and the story of its owner – the Alfa Romeo collector Manuel Leon Minassian. He prefers cars that leave him with satisfaction and joy and this is why he often buys cars that have been neglected or are unwanted by the average buyer, and he is extremely picky as to how he will bring them back to life.

In the video below you can hear and see his story and how he has bought and sold countless amounts of cars in his lifetime. However, Minassian is not disclosing the exact number of vintage cars he has in his garage. What is more this video is about an Alfa Romeo model which he holds very close – the 1972 Berlina that was specifically customized to his personal preference.

httpv://youtu.be/nx2sPfgqlkg

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Petrolicious

March 18, 2013

2013 Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell

Hyundai has announced the 2013 ix35 Fuel Cell, which has been selected for the second consecutive year by the European Commission-backed Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking (FCH JU) to demonstrate the real-world benefits of hydrogen fuel cell technology.

The world’s first production fuel cell electric vehicle, the ix35 Fuel Cell, will be made available throughout 2013 to members of the European Parliament, European Commission officials and other policymakers for test drives in Brussels, Belgium.

“We are delighted that the FCH JU has chosen the ix35 Fuel Cell as its European demonstration vehicle and look forward to working with them to promote the benefits of hydrogen and fuel cell technology. We are sure that the leading policymakers and opinion-formers who drive this remarkable vehicle will find its ability to deliver performance and comfort without compromising its eco-friendly nature withtailpipe emissions highly compelling.”, commented President of Hyundai MotorEurope B.K. Rimsaid.

Using Hyundai’s proprietary technology, the ix35 Fuel Cell’s fuel cell stack converts hydrogen into electricity, which turns the vehicle’s motor. The only emission generated is water.

The ix35 Fuel Cell can be refuelled with hydrogen in only a few minutes. 0-100 km/h in 12.5 seconds and a top speed of 160 km/h (100 mph). It can travel up to 594 km (369 miles) on a single tank of fuel.

Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell specifications

Length	4410 mm
Width	1820 mm
Height	1655 mm
Driving range on one fill-up	594 km
Vehicle efficiency	0.95 kg H₂ / 100 km
Top speed	160 km/h
Acceleration, 0 to 100 km/h	12.5 seconds
Fuel cell output power	100 kW (136 ps)
Energy storage system	24 kW lithium-ion polymer battery
Fuel	Hydrogen (700 bar, 5.6 kg)
Exhaust gas	Water vapour

Source: Hyundai

March 15, 2013

TEASER: 2013 DMC Bentley Continental GTC DURO

2013 DMC Bentley Continental GTC DURO has just been teased. The new project of the talented tuners at DMC Exotic Car Tuning has been disclosed, showing their work on the new 2013 Bentley Continental GTC. Only one image of the white stunning front fascia of the GTC has been released with no additional information around it.

All interested in this particular project have to wait until the 18th of March when the official unveiling of the car will happen. Although we have seen DMC working extremely on Italian cars, with this Bentley model they are also confirming their strong interest in British Marques.

The photograph doesn’t show the whole Continental but brings the attention on the redesigned front bumper which is now more aggressive thanks to the new design elements added. It’s almost certain that a complete package will be launched. It will include rear bumper, diffusers, side panels and a decent yet strong trunk lip along with new wheels and an engine make-over.

Source: DMC

March 15, 2013

2014 Volvo V40 Range Includes New D2 Automatic And T2 Petrol Engines

The new 2014 Volvo V40 range is now going to be equipped with two engines that deliver further CO2 reductions. The customers can now choose between the D2 unit with improved emissions and included transmission options and the T2 engine which delivers 120 hp (88 kW). In addition, there is also the new Sensus Connected Touch system included in the new V40 range, which offers unique on-line possibilities, including voice-activated Spotify.

Firstly, the V40 D2 and V40 R-Design D2 will now benefit from the choice of an automatic gearbox. The CO2 emissions here are 102 g/km (72.4mpg) in the standard and R-Design versions and 108g/km (68.9mpg) in the V40 Cross Country.

On the other hand the manual versions of the V40 D2 and V40 D2 R-Design (115 hp / 85 kW) also have reduced CO2 emissions of 88g/km (EU Combined), which translates into a fuel consumption improvement of 4.6mpg, to 83.1 mpg. Respectively, the figures for the V40 Cross Country with the D2 engine are 99g/km (74.3mpg).

Secondly, the T2 unit will be also available on the V40 and V40 R-Design. The new variant of the four-cylinder 1.6-litre engine delivers 120 hp (88 kW) and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque. The CO2 emissions with the manual gearbox here are 124g/km (EU Combined, preliminary figures), and the fuel consumption – 53.3mpg.

The other new highlight featured in this Volvo range is the Sensus Connected Touch, which enables connectivity and Internet in the car and turns the 7-inch display into an infrared, beam-scanned touch screen. The connection is possible thanks to the car-mounted 3G/4G dongle or the driver’s mobile phone.

Prices of the new 2014 V40 Range equipped with the new engines and Sensus Connected Touch will be announced in the beginning of April.

Source: Volvo

March 15, 2013

2014 BMW 3-Series F30 328d – 180HP and 381Nm

BMW will introduce the Concept Active Tourer for the first time at the 2013 New York International Auto Show on Wednesday, March 27^th at the BMW stand at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in Manhattan. The manufacturer will also present two new additions to its award-winning 3-Series line-up – the GT model and 328d.

The 3-Series 328d is powered by a 2.0 liter TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder diesel with 180HP (134 kW) and 381Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 7.2 seconds and US EPA fuel consumption of over 40 mph. With the hallmark performance of a BMW 3 Series and increased efficiency of a diesel engine, the BMW 328d will serve as the new benchmark in its class.

The slate of approved BMW Apps will expand to include new partnerships. Through these partnerships drivers will soon be able to listen to their favorite audiobooks read aloud, or share their location with friends and family. Music and radio fans will enjoy new functionality in their BMW via their mobile device.

Source: BMW

March 15, 2013

Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG 6×6 Near-Series Show Vehicle

Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG 6×6 Near-Series Show Vehicle is an off-roader that delivers 400 kW (544 hp) of power, has inherent 6×6 drive, low-range ratio, five differential locks, portal axles, tyre pressure control system and a special chassis. The Dakar-Rally-style vehicle in addition comes with interior enhancements from the AMG thanks to which the occupants enjoy the highest possible degree of comfort.

G 63 AMG 6×6 combines the best of the latest revised G-Class series-production models which gives the vehicle superiority and refinement. It also includes the source of the up-to-date interior concept with impressive new instruments and a large, central colour display. What is more, the renowned Mercedes-AMG has supplied the model with superior engine technology and interior which is as luxurious as it is comfortable.

First of all, the 6×6 technology – in other words six driven wheels, the off-road low-range ratio in the transfer case, portal axles, five differential locks which can be engaged on the move and a tyre-pressure control system which allows the pressure in the huge 37-inch tyres to be adjusted in record time while the vehicle is running, are those features are ideal for conventional cross-country vehicles.

They all make the driving dynamics perfect for the toughest terrain. The result is that the show vehicle is able to conquer the highest sand dunes and rocky terrains. In addition, it also hides exclusive series-production components under its skin.

In particular, there are the AMG V8 biturbo engine that delivers 400 kW (544 hp) and 760 Nm of torque, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission paired with the front drive system from the G 63 AMG, a rear twin drive train from the 6×6 version and ingenious portal axles.

Furthermore, the chassis is based on the current production configuration, with the exception that the helical springs and dampers have been adjusted to take account of the changed characteristics of the three-axle model. The springs, for instance, have inherent no less than 15 different spring rates.

On the other hand, the front axle is built with the help of armored special-protection variant, the first rear axle has harder spring rate and the second one is softer. All this combined with the rally-proven, adjustable gas-pressure shock absorbers, end up in a perfect symbiosis of sporty dynamism and composed comfort.

In terms of exterior, this special edition of Mercedes-Benz is equipped with large tyres on the three axles, which gives it a height of almost 2.30 metres. In addition its width is some 2.10 metres and its total length of 5.87 metre.

AMG brand face is very well visible thanks to the “twin blade” radiator grille. Moreover, one can be captured immediately by the carbon fibre which is to be found in the integrated LED light strips above the windscreen as well as in the large flared wheel arches. At the same time, the rear load area section has a distinctive stainless-steel roll-over bar.

Luxurious treatment is to be found in the interior, which is defined by AMG. Inside the cabin, the occupants will be pleased to see classic red or light brown designo leather with contrasting topstitching and attractive diamond-pattern quilting.

The four seats are electrically adjustable, heated and ventilated. The rear compartment is equipped with a special centre console while the roof liner and pillars are finished in an Alcantara® covering. The rear panel is trimmed in leather.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

March 15, 2013

2014 Porsche 911 GT3 – Price €137,303 [video]

Porsche has released an interesting video of the new 2014 911 GT3 model in Youtube.

The sports car made its official debut at the 83^rd Geneva Motor Show, last week. Some of the highlights include tended side skirts, different rear bumper, optional LED headlights, a fixed rear wing and bigger spoilers. The 911 GT3 rolls 20” forged alloy wheels fitted with performance tires. Last, but not least, it comes with a center-mounted dual sports exhaust system.

2014 Porsche 911 GT3 is powered by a 3.8 liter flat-six with 475HP (349 kW) and 438Nm (324 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a dual-clutch 7-speed gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 315 km/h (195 mph).

One very nice innovation of the new GT3 is an active rear wheel steering system. It alloys steering in the same or opposite direction of the front wheels for achieving perfect traction and handling.

The interior boasts an Alcantara steering wheel, leather/Alcantara seats, as well as red contrasting stitching.

The price is a lot – €137,303 with first deliveries starting from August, this year.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_5POiaZygzU

Source: Porsche

March 15, 2013

2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray AeroWagon

Callaway has announced the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray AeroWagon. The Shooting Brake version of the sports car is already available and Callaway can build it for an additional $15,000.The rear of Corvette C7 is going to have carbon fiber structural components made using Callaway’s in-house Resin Transfer Molding process.It is powered by a 6.2 liter V8 with 450HP (335 kW) and 610 Nm (450 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 4 seconds. We expect some serious tuning of this power unit, so it can be able to reach top speed of over 322 km/h (200 mph).2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray AeroWagon is expected to hit the market in the end of this year.

March 15, 2013

Schwabenfolia Audi RS3 Gold Orange

SchwabenFolia has announced a new tuned Audi RS3 Sportback, which is covered in a matter Gold-Orange Metallic foil. The hot hatchback looks really stunning, because of the aggressive stance and bright exterior finish.

The price of foiling the exterior in gold/orange is a €2,350, while the interior will cost another €1,450 for new bucket seats featuring the Nordschleife logo and driver’s name.

There are some elements, which aren’t foiled – side mirrors, glossy black roof, front lip, moldings, as well as the Audi rings in the grille.

The five-cylinder turbocharged 2.5 liter petrol is boosted to 425HP (313 kW) and 570Nm (420 lb-ft) of torque. The result is thanks to an ECU-remap, a new RAGE 2.5 exhaust system developed by F-Town Street with dual 80mm tailpipes. The price of the performance package is €5,450.

Source: Schwabenfolia

March 14, 2013

2013 Volkswagen e-Up! – 150 km Range

Volkswagen has revealed the new all-electric version of the 2013 Up!. The four-seat car – which operates with nearly zero noise – is being shown at today’s Annual Press and Investors Conference in Wolfsburg. It impresses with its driving range of 150 km and excellent everyday practicality.

The electric motor has a maximum output of 82HP (60 kW) and a continuous power of 55HP (40 kW). The torque is 210Nm (155 lb-ft) from the first rev. 0-100 km/h in 14 seconds and a top speed of 135 km/h (84 mph). The 18.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack can be charged up to 80 % in just 30 minutes.

Other higlights include LED daytime running lights, aerodynamically optimized: underbody, sills and front end. There is a set of 15” alloy wheels fitted with low-resistance tires.

The curb weight is 1,185 (2,612 lbs).

The vehicle’s interior features e-up! light-grey seat covers with blue top-stitched seams. Special leather and chrome accents have been used to convey a puristic impression that matches the vehicle concept of a full-fledged urban electric car.

Looks like the perfect city car, but will it be…?

Source: Volkswagen

March 14, 2013

Category: Auto News