Auto News – Page 751 – Automobiles Review

Adaptive KW Coilover Kit With iPhone Control For Porsche 911

KW Automotive is known primarily with numerous racing and coilover kits for Porsche models. Now for the new generation of the 911 the company has released KW iSuspension and offers for the first time adaptive coilovers for the Porsche 911.

The KW DDC ECU coilover kit offers to the driver’s three driving modes: “Comfort”, “Sport” and “Sport+”. In addition, it also stores five personal damper setups per KW DDC App. For the App control via iPhone, iPod touch and iPad, only an optional WLAN module is required.

The adjustment of the Porsche via iPhone for the use of different wheel / tire combinations is done directly from the App.For the wireless connection between KW DDC ECU suspension control unit and iPhone, iPad or iPod touch, an optional W-LAN module is required.

Furthermore, the adaptive KW DDC ECU coilover kit with electronic damper adjustment also allows lowering with 20 up to 40 millimetres. As a matter of fact, the afore mentioned kit is an alternative to the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) with optional Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC).

To go further into details, the balanced “Comfort” mode adjusts the damping characteristics automatically to the driving speed. On the other hand the driver will experience his Porsche in “Sport” and “Sport+” mode directly and pure. At last, in the next months, KW automotive will develop further suspension solutions with smartphone compatibility of the product family KW iSuspension.

Source: KW Automotive

December 19, 2012

Cadillac ELR Luxury Coupe to Debut at NAIAS

An exciting new vehicle which is going to make its world debut on 15th of January at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) is the 2014 Cadillac ELR extended-range electric luxury coupe.

Cadillac has just teased the general public with the image above, showing the flowing lines of their new luxury coupe. As a matter of fact, the car will be based on the Cadillac Converj Concept, which was a revolutionary luxury EV.

In addition, the new ELR will combine a dramatic design with industry-leading extended range electric vehicle technology in a unique luxury form.

However, definitely expect to see more here than we did in 2009 with the Converj. To recall some details, the latter generated 273 lb.-ft. (370 Nm) of instant torque, for a quick launch, and 163 hp (120 kW) of power.

Source: Cadillac

December 19, 2012

Tata Aria Pure LX Launched

Tata Aria Pure LX is the latest vehicle which Tata has launched. The new model is promised to deliver new range of features, more comfort, refinement, safety, styling and a powerful yet fuel efficient engine.

First of all the car is suitable for seven persons. A driver info system and the instrument cluster on the dashboard keep the driver informed about the car’s performance. The car also has keyless entry with a remote integrated key. Flat folding second and third row seats, with a sliding second row, deliver extra room.

More importantly, the new Tata model comes equipped with BS-IV grade 2.2L Dicor engine which produces 140 hp (103 kW) power and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) torque. It has an overall length of 4780 mm, width of 1895 mm and height of 1780 mm. The Aria Pure LX also has a wheelbase of 2850 mm, with an astonishing ground clearance of 200 mm.

Next, the car runs on its 16-inch wheels, and it’s adorned by dual barrel headlamps with projector beams and an elegant chrome waistline on all windows. Moreover, the disc brakes on all four wheels deliver efficient and powerful braking.

Source: Tata

December 19, 2012

Peugeot 208 Type R5 in Series of Tests

Peugeot 208 Type R5 has been unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in September and now it just competed in the first rally. It has successfully taken part in the first test programme before the end of 2012.

Furthermore, the 208 Type R5 is the first car built in compliance with the FIA’s latest ‘R5’ regulations which has broken cover and turned a wheel. In addition, the car benefits from all the expertise and experience of Peugeot Sport.

In particular, the car was put through its paces on a gravel stage in the southeast of France (Riboux) where it completed a four-day programme in the hands of Bryan Bouffier/Xavier Panseri.

Between now and the 208 Type R5’s release for sale (the second half of the next year) the Peugeot model will run over 10 000 km of testing. At a later stage, the brand will focus on the suspension and the turbocharged engine which are the two chief factors of the global performance package.

Peugeot 208 Type R5 Specifications:

ENGINE
Type	EP6 CDT
Location	Transverse Front
Capacity	1598 cc
Number of cylinders	4
Power (bhp.DIN)	280bhp at 6,000rpm
Torque (Nm)	400 Nm at 2,500rpm
Max engine speed	7,500rpm
Injection	Magneti Marelli High Pressure Direct
Intake	Single throttle
Number of valves	16
TRANSMISSION
Mode	Four-wheel drive
Clutch	Dual disc
Gearbox	Five-speed with sequential control
Differential	Two self-locking differentials
CHASSIS
Structure and materials	Shell + Tubular roll-over bar
Front suspension	Pseudo MacPherson
Rear suspension	Pseudo MacPherson
BRAKES / STEERING
Front brake	Alcon 4 pistons
	Ø 300 (gravel) 355 (asphalt)
Rear brake	Alcon 4 pistons
	Ø 300 (gravel) 355 (asphalt)
Steering	Direct with hydraulic assistance
Wheels	Aluminium monoblock 8”x18” (asphalt) / 7″x15″ (gravel)
Asphalt wheels	225x40x18
Dirt wheels	215x65x15
DIMENSIONS
Length	Idem standard: 3,962mm
Width	1,820mm
Wheelbase	2,560mm
Minimum weight	1,200 kg (asphalt) / 1,200kg (gravel)

Source: Peugeot

December 19, 2012

BMW at the NAIAS 2013

BMW is bringing several interesting models at the NAIAS 2013 in Detroit. The manufacturer will exhibit the new Concept 4-Series Coupe (F32), M6 Gran Coupe, Z4 Roadster, 1-Series Coupe and 1-Series Convertible Limited Edition Lifestyle.

The 4-Series Coupe is one of the most interesting new BMWs. Until now, the manufacturer didn’t have 4-Series in their line-up. The new vehicle is bly larger than the BMW 3 Series Coupe in terms of length, width and wheelbase, while the roofline is considerably lower. The car is much more aggressive at the front and at the rear. The new BMW Coupe embodies a development curve at its zenith.

The alluring interior exudes cutting-edge luxury, with elaborate details and exquisite materials sharing centre stage.

Here again, the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe reveals a spectrum of qualities set amid new dimensions and underlines the brand’s ambitions through its unrelenting pursuit of perfection.

The high-performance M6 Gran Coupe brings together the hallmark performance attributes of M cars within a handsome and sumptuous design. The extra room on board the four-door Coupe allows two rear passengers to bask in generous levels of spaciousness.

It is powered by the a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with 560PS (412 kW) and 680Nm (502 lb-ft). It is mated to a 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission. 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds, 0 to 200 km/h in 13 seconds and top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) electronically limited and 305 km/h (190 mph) with M Driver’s Package.

The Z4 Roadster is now available with three new body colours are available exclusively with the Design Pure Traction option, which is also new. Meanwhile, black and orange tones create a particularly absorbing contrast of colours in the interior.

There are also new 17” and 18” light-alloy wheels and the optional M Sport package. And there is also the arrival of a new model variant to report; the BMW Z4 sDrive18i is powered by a 2.0-litre engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology developing 156 HP (115 kW).

This new entry point to the Z4 range can also be ordered with an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

The selection of driver assistance systems and BMW ConnectedDrive mobility services available on board the BMW Z4 has also been expanded. If the Professional navigation system is specified, the ConnectedDrive Services option enables use of internet-based information and entertainment services inside the car.

Both 1-Series Coupe and 1-Series Convertible are available with Limited Edition Lifestyle equipment package.

As well as the exclusive Mineral White metallic paint, customers can also choose from two other exterior colours, while 18” light-alloy wheels accentuate the cars’ classy looks.

The Lifestyle Edition contrasts are particularly effective on the BMW 1-Series Convertible; a brown soft-top with silver pigmentation generates fascinating light effects, for example. Brown leather trim with white contrast stitching plays the lead role in the interior of the Lifestyle Edition cars.

A matching brown sports leather steering wheel, specially badged door sill strips and Fineline Stream fine wood trim elements add the finishing touches to the interior ambience.

Source: BMW

http://www.automobilesreview.com/pictures/2013-bmw-m6-gran-coupe/

December 18, 2012

Bentley Continental GT3

Bentley has announced the new Continental GT3, which will make its second appearance at the Autosport Stage in Birmingham, UK. Following the announcement of Bentley’s return to motorsport in the GT3 category, response to the Continental GT3 has been overwhelmingly positive with significant interest from numerous potential customers.

“Joining forces with Bentley to help create the new Continental GT3 is a rare privilege. Bentley’s design and analysis work to-date has shown that the Continental GT road car can become an extremely competitive race car, and we are looking forward to capitalising on our extensive competition car development experience and success to help Bentley realise its goals.”, commented M-Sport’s Managing Director Malcolm Wilson.

M-Sport will design and develop specialist components, together with design work and project organisation being undertaken in-house at Crewe. The company’s Dovenby Hall base in Cumbria complements the Crewe-based team and factory facilities, together creating an array of expertise and equipment that will help to ensure the development of a competitive GT3 racecar worthy of Bentley’s return to the racetrack.

Source: Bentley

December 18, 2012

Mazzanti Evantra V8 – 701HP and 848Nm

Mazzanti Automobili has presented their model – the Evantra V8. The hiper-car comes with powerful engine, enormous tires and brakes and sleek design for speed of over 200 mph.The car is powered by a naturally-aspirated 7.0 liter V8 with 701HP (515 kW) at 6,600RPM and 848Nm (625 lb-ft) of torque at 4,500RPM. The engine is mated to a 6-speed Silatronic automatic transmission. 0-100 km/h in 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 350 km/h (217 mph).The car rolls 20” OZ light alloy wheels fitted with 305/25 R20 and 255/30 R20 tires – front and rear. The brakes behind the wheels come from Brembo – 6 piston calipers at the front with 380 mm disecs and 4 piston calipers at the rear with 360 mm discs. As an option, there is a carbon ceramic brake system.The aerodynamics is carefully tuned in collaboration with Ysim, which is a company providing consultancy services for cars in Formula 1 and Le Mans.So, everything in Evantra V8 is all about performance.

December 18, 2012

2014 Infiniti Models – Q and QX Prefix

Infiniti adopts a new nomenclature strategy starting from the 2014 model year. The first model to carry Infiniti’s new Q badge will be the Q50, an all-new premium sports sedan to be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in January 2013.

The premium automotive brand will see its model range simply prefixed either by Q – for sedans, coupes and convertibles, or QX, for crossover and SUV models. Each model will be further identified by a double digit representing hierarchy within the range.

This strategic change reflects Infiniti’s desire for clarity and cohesiveness as it embarks on ambitious growth plans, including significant expansion of the Infiniti portfolio.

“Over the past few months, we have talked at length with our retailers, our customers, and our business partners about our brand. The need for a new identity and direction to promote consumer familiarity with our model range as we expand the portfolio became evident. To achieve this, we clearly needed a simple and consistent nomenclature framework. After exhaustive research and evaluation, we concluded that ‘Q‘ captured the inspiration within the next generation of Infiniti models, as well as emphasizing our performance credentials while harking back to our heritage with the Q45 – Infiniti’s first iconic flagship product in 1989.”, commented Johan de Nysschen, President of Infiniti Motor Company Limited.

The new nomenclature strategy will be implemented in logical stages within the existing product range.

Source: Infiniti

December 18, 2012

Tesla Model S Goes to Europe

tesla-model-s-651 One of the three most popular green car manufacturers in the United States is undisputedly Tesla Motors. The company has recently announced that it is making plans to start a worldwide distribution of its all-electric Model S Sedan.

In order to make this into reality, what it also plans is to make distribution centers in other parts of the world. And Tesla Motors sets the beginning of this by opening its European Distribution Center in Tilburg, Netherlands, which will happen later this month.

It is going to be 62 000 square foot facility in a central location. More importantly, the new Tesla facility is going to compete in the automotive European market with luxury car manufacturers such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

What it first considers to do is to start stocking parts for both the Tesla Roadster and Model S. Furthermore, another utilization of this factory will be for importing operations, final vehicle assembly and distribution, service headquarters, technical training operations, parts remanufacturing, collision repair.

Even more, for all who live in UK and wish to go greener, it was noted that there will be also a general production of a European left-hand drive Model S, which production will begin in March next year.

Source: earthtechling

December 18, 2012

Schmidt Vokswagen Golf 7 Equipped with XS5 Wheels

Schmidt Vokswagen Golf 7 XS5 has one-of-a-kind road presence. The reason for this is that it is equipped with brand new set of “shoes”. As a matter of fact, the rims are among the most important accessories of every car.

Schmidt Revolution, which is rims manufacturer, delivered for this Volkswagen the finest rims. Each wheel set is individually adjusted and each two front and rear wheels with desired offset are adjusted exactly to the vehicle.

We are speaking here for the XS5 model which comes in different concavities with embossed spokes. The bigger the wheel is, the more concave the spoke is. The wheel arches are in any case optimally filled through adjusting the offset – no matter, whether airrides or coil over.

Chrome-plated steel panels provide a perfect shine.

Embossed spoke runs against the rim well, what a design. The stainless steel panels, which receives through its gloss additional chromium plating reflector, refines the drop center of one piece rims in a special way and makes the wheel suitable both for winter and everyday utilization.

In this case the new Golf 7 is supplied with wheels in sizes 8,5 and 9 inches. Those size can also fit perfectly to the models such as Audi TT RS, Audi RS3, Opel OPC and VW GTI are served. For the upper middle class a much broader and thus concaveness wheel with 10, 5 inch is available for the rear axle. They will fit very well to BMW 3 series and 6 series, Mercedes AMG, Nissan GTR for instance.

Source: Miranda Media

December 18, 2012

2013 Dodge Charger AWD Sport Delivers 370 Horsepower

2013 Dodge Charger AWD Sport is being launched just on time and is going to combat the most inclement driving conditions. For this purpose it is equipped with new AWD Sport package. In particular it delivers two powerful engines with horsepower up to 370. In addition, it includes segment’s most advanced all-wheel-drive system for best-in-class V-6 fuel economy, new “blacked out” exterior accents, AWD paddle-shifters with “sport mode”.

The vehicle builds on the success of the rear-wheel drive and blacked-out styled Dodge Charger Blacktop. 2013 Dodge Charger AWD Sport will be available on the Dodge Charger SXT and SXT Plus AWD models.

Charger AWD Sport package offers includes the following: Gloss Black painted split-crosshair grille and grille surround, 19-inch polished aluminum wheels with Gloss Black pockets, all-season performance tires, the first application of steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters and sport mode transmission calibration in a Charger AWD, rear body-color spoiler and sport seats in black cloth (SXT and R/T), or premium black or red heated Nappa leather (SXT Plus and R/T Plus).

But this is not all. The new Dodge features the Beats Audio technology with a powerful 12-channel amplifier, three 3.5-inch speakers located in the instrument panel, two 3.5-inch speakers located in the rear doors, two 6 x 9-inch front-door woofers, two 6 x 9-inch speakers and a center-mounted 8-inch speaker located in the rear-shelf area, and an 8-inch Beats Audio trunk-mounted dual-voice coil subwoofer with sealed enclosure.

More importantly however is the featured 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine. It now generates 300 horsepower (220 kW) thanks to the addition of a new sport-tuned dual exhaust system and cold-air induction system. And those who want to experience even more driving exhilaration, there is the option of the 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine with 370 horsepower (272 kW), 535 Nm (395 lb-ft) of torque and four-cylinder mode Fuel Saver Technology. The Dodge Charger AWD Sport also can be configured from the Charger R/T and R/T Plus models.

Despite the huge power, both V-6 and V-8 models will include active transfer case and front-axle-disconnect system to improve real-world fuel economy. The AWD system in the Dodge Charger AWD Sport seamlessly transitions between rear-wheel drive and AWD with no driver intervention. When AWD is not required, the system automatically disconnects the front axle to maximize fuel economy while still providing the outstanding fun-to-drive performance and handling inherent in rear-wheel-drive vehicles.

At last but not least, the Dodge Charger AWD Sport includes paddle shifters and “sport mode.” When the Sport Mode is active, the gear changes are quicker and revs are held higher for even more performance-oriented driving. For even more control, the driver can also use the die-cast steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters and view gear election through the full-color EVIC centered in the Dodge Charger AWD Sport’s instrument cluster.

Source: Dodge

December 18, 2012

Third generation Honda CR-V Paramedic Response Unit

Honda CR-V Paramedic Response Unit will now help the UK’s emergency organizations. In their opinion it is the best vehicle for this purpose because of its outstanding practicality, versatility and interior space.

Furthermore, Honda‘s popular SUV has been also used by the Welsh Ambulance Service, which has ordered over 30 examples of the third-generation SUV in the last year. On the other hand, the Scottish Ambulance Service has taken delivery of more than 40 in the last 24 months.

Honda CR-V makes an outstanding “first response” vehicle for 999 services. It has car-like dynamics and advanced all-wheel drive system. This leads to the conclusion that it can access the most remote locations quickly, while the torque and fuel-efficient 2.2-litre i-DTEC diesel engine makes it quick under ‘blue light’ conditions and inexpensive to run.

Scottish Ambulance have introduced the CR-V as the base vehicle for all PRUs. This also means that the vehicle will deliver additional four wheel drive into the winter months.

Source: Honda

December 18, 2012

Category: Auto News