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Icon Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato Volante: a modern interpretation

Icon Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato Volante is a unique vehicle which is going to enrich the portfolio of Icon 4×4. And although the designers from the company mainly focus on recreating cars seen in the past, this project aims something different. Still, the motto of the company stays the same: Classic styling, modern performance, and timeless utility.

The California based Icon 4×4 decides with this latest project to recreate the Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato. The model dates back from the sixties and has special characteristics. The original Zagato was equipped with 3.7-litre aluminum twin-spark straight six-cylinder engine with a powerful 9.7:1 compression ratio.

Hence, it was able to produce 314 hp (234 kW) and had an acceleration time of 6.1 seconds for the 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) sprint. Its top speed number approximately 154 mph (246 km/h).

Unlike the original car however, the California team will build the iconic model in Volante-style. This basically means that it is going to be without a roof. Moreover, Zagato coupe’s original designer Ercole Spada will join the process and will help with the “recreation” of the car.

Of course, all the mechanicals included in the new reimagined DB4 GT Zagato Volante will be modern and will include Aston Martin’s AM V12 engine.

The Reimagined Icon Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato Volante

Source: Icon 4×4 via Autoblog

June 8, 2012

Toyota TS030 Hybrid at the Le Mans

Toyota TS030 Hybrid is the model with which the Japanese automaker will return to the Le Mans 24-hour race the forthcoming week. On the race track we will see not one but two of these competing hybrids.

Toyota aims with these hybrid vehicles to write a new page in the history of the legendary twice-around-the-clock enduro, with the help with their unique technologies. Both TS030 Hybrids display their new Toyota hybrid-blue livery.

Furthermore, both racecars are equipped with the 2012 THS-R (Toyota Hybrid System – Racing) powertrain. The latter is designed to deliver optimum performance and includes theall-new V8 3.4-litre normally-aspirated petrol engine and hybrid system with capacitor storage.

Of course, being a true Toyota’s full hybrid road car, the TS030’s energy is regenerated under braking and the vehicle can work in electric-only mode, thus achieving zero emissions and zero fuel consumption.

This means that it either delivers faster lap times through improving speed on the exit of corners, or one chooses to save fuel by using the internal combustion engine less on corner exit and allowing the hybrid system to compensate.

Few days more to go and we will eventually understand whether the goal of Toyota is achievable, and it is to show that the TS030 Hybrid is the fastest hybrid car on the grid.

Technical Specifications
Designation	TS030 HYBRID
Type	Le Mans Prototype (LMP1)
Bodywork	Carbon fibre composite
Windscreen	Polycarbonate
Gearbox	Transversal with 6 gears sequential
Gearbox casing	Aluminium
Driveshafts	Constant velocity tripod plunge-joint driveshafts
Clutch	Multidisc
Differential	Viscous mechanical locking differential
Suspension	Independent front and rear double wishbone, pushrod-system
Springs	Torsion bars
Anti roll bars	Front and rear
Steering	Hydraulically assisted
Brakes	Dual circuit hydraulic braking system, mono-block light-alloy brake callipers front and rear
Discs	Ventilated front and rear in carbon
Rims	Magnesium forged wheels
Front rims	14.5 x 18 inch
Rear rims	14.5 x 18 inch
Tyres	Michelin radial
Front tyres	36/71-18
Rear tyres	37/71-18
Length	4650mm
Width	2000mm
Height	1030mm
Fuel capacity	73 litres
Powertrain	Toyota Hybrid System – Racing (THS-R)
Engine	90° V8 normally aspirated engine
Fuel	Petrol
Engine Capacity	3.4l
Valves	4
Air restrictors	1 x 43.3mm
Capacitor	Nisshinbo
Front Hybrid Motor	Aisin AW
Rear Hybrid Motor	Denso

Source: Toyota

June 8, 2012

Toyota TMG EV P002 Races to the Clouds

Toyota TMG EV P002 is going to conquer the high altitudes of the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. More importantly, what is so specific about this racecar is that it is an electric one. This simply means that Toyota is applying its environmental visions on the race track as well.

Toyota TMG EV P002 doesn’t have a conventional combustion engine but a fully electric drivetrain. It is able to develop full power even in the thin air of the hill climb’s 19.9 kilometre course. The race starts at an altitude of 2,862 metres and finishes at the 4,300-metre Pikes Peak in Colorado Springs.

Furthermore, this racecar has a twin axial flux motors, which are able to offer a combined output of 350kW (476 lb-ft). The vehicle has a top speed of 240km/h. The advanced electric motors contribute to the power of the car as well. They deliver 900Nm of torque through a single gear transmission.

An interesting fact here is that Toyota engineers have spent the past half year working on the Radical chassis-based EV P002. It is a development of the street-legal TMG EV P001, which as you might remember broke the electric car lap record at the Nürburgring Nordschleife last year.

The Japanese rally champion Fumio Nutahara will drive the EV P002 in the event, also known as the ‘Race to the Clouds’.

Toyota TMG EV P002 technical specifications:

Performance: Top speed 240km/h (Pikes Peak configuration); Maximum torque 900Nm; Maximum power 350kW; Maximum revs 5000rpm

Powertrain: Electric motor 2 axial flux; Inverter 2 x TMG inverters; Gear ratio 2.5; Transmission Single-reduction gearing; Battery Lithium ceramic; Battery capacity 42kWh; Charging technology Off-board DC charging

Dimensions: Length 4.10m; Height 1.04m; Width 1.79m

Source: Toyota

June 8, 2012

Audi A1 Quattro Going 0-259 km/h on Gravel

Here’s a treat for the eyes… and ears. An Audi A1 Quattro rummaging through a tight, gravel-ish path. Not sure if the 259 km/h was the end goal or end result but either way, it came out as a fact.

The Audi A1 Quattro, as you might have guessed, is far from ordinary. Sure, it has a 2.0 TFSI that can be found in many other Volkswagens and Audis, but the 256 PS generated here are put to maximum use by the Qauttro’s suspension setup, ESP system and transmission – The electronically controlled, hydraulically actuated multi-plate clutch is all the way back to the rear axle for better weight distribution. Further back, there’s an XDS locking differential while at the front 312 mm ventilated high-performance disc brakes provide enough stopping power to halt a planet. Eventually however, it all goes down to the decades old Quattro (AWD) system – refined, redesigned and perfected (at least for now). That’s the reason we witness such a smooth start and not a trench-digging contest. From there on, it’s just grip, grip and grip. When (if) it lets go, one can fix it with a pinky.

So there you go. A brilliant machine and a brilliant test. Just goes to show how road cars have gone up a notch and deliver a glimpse of the hardcore stuff.

httpv://youtu.be/z2Wx7mCVtAo

Source: cc8186 via Youtube

June 7, 2012

2013 ROUSH Ford Mustang RS

“Engineered on the track, refined for everyday” is what ROUSH say about their latest Ford Mustang RS. It’s a MY 2013 and the RS stands for “ROUSH Six”. The base platform used for it is the rather sensible 3.7-liter V6 Mustang.

We say sensible because the power still stands at the stock 305 hp which are good for 31 mpg of economy on the highway. It’s slightly unusual for ROUSH to not glue a giant, fuel guzzling supercharger. But where the Mustang lacks in boost, compensates in suspension engineering. Brembo brakes peeking out from 19-inch, directly lifted from the Ford Mustang GT, alloy wheels and ROUSH lowering springs which lower the center of gravity by around one inch.

As for visuals, the RS shares many features with the ROUSH Stage vehicles – high-flow upper and lower grilles, a front chin splitter, side rocker splitters and a trunk spoiler. The way to tell apart the RS is by looking at the fender “R” badge on either side and also at the “R” ROUSH faux gas cap. Optional components (not really needed) are the hood scoop, rear quarter window louvers and the RS exterior side and hood graphics.

Inside, the floor mats and center console have the markings of “ROUSH” the pedal box in the driver’s foot well is custom made. Available is also a black leather trim a suede wrapping for the steering wheel and a black or white shifter ball. Ambiently lit ROUSH door sill plates complement the whole exclusive look.

Source: ROUSH

June 7, 2012

2013 Hyundai Veloster Starting from $17,450

The massively popular Hyundai Veloster hits the US showrooms with a 2013 model year that’s pretty well priced – $17,450 for the 1.6 GDI, 6-speed manual. The one we are interested though, is the Veloster Turbo which has the same engine, but well… twin-scroll turbocharged. The prices for it start at $21,950 (6-speed stick) but what you get in return is a real treat – 201 hp, 195 lb-ft. of torque, 38 mpg of highway consumption, sporty looks, sporty notes and sporty equipment.

The 1.6L engine is swift in response, frugal and decently powerful thanks to it’s twin-scroll turbo technology and direct injection. Couple it with the 6-Speed SHIFTRONIC Automatic transmission and you’ll get the top of the line Veloster at the price of just $22, 950 – $1000 more than the manual.

The front grille is bigger, more pronounced and more hexagonal? LED’s and fog lights make sure the front has a premium luxury feel. The side skirts and the rear diffuser integrated rear bumper result in a more road-hugging stance when compared to the base Veloster. The exhaust pipes are now two round ones instead of a single trapezoidal module and all the while, 18-inch wheels with chrome inserts complete the looks.

Inside, you get “Turbo” embroiled on the headrests. The gauge cluster is quite 21st century with it’s two TFT displays between the dials, the pedals are from aluminum and the starter is a button. The only non-sporty thing are the standard heated seats – an unnecessary luxury which can only add weight.

Source: Hyundai

June 7, 2012

2012 Kahn Range Rover Westminster Black Label Edition marks the Diamond Jubilee

2012 Kahn Range Rover Westminster Black Label Edition marks the biggest royal event of the year – namely the HRH Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee. This exceptional tuning is of course made by no other but A. Kahn Design.

A Range Rover model served as a basis for the outstanding work of the tuners. The result is that it is now uniquely styled and refined.

Furthermore, this machine is effectively weighted with a feeling of linearity and purity thanks to the Kahn’s aerodynamic styling package. The latter comprises of of a RS- front and rear bumper replacements, side skirts, LED daytime running lights in the lower bumper section, LED daytime running lights in the lower front bumper section, brake calipers finished in liquid gold, rear tailgate trim in matt black, rear diffuser in matt pearl grey, door handles and side vents in matt black, front bumper lower bar in matt pearl grey, front bumper fog light surrounds in matt black and front grille running bars finished in dark chrome, Kahn vehicle branding, Kahn enamel wing shields and Kahn enamel tailgate logo.

2012 Kahn Range Rover Westminster Black Label Edition

However, the tuning does not end here. It includes also an engine upgrade, powered by Cosworth and complete ‘regal’ color changes, which are also at hand. Moreover, Kahn quad rear silencers in stainless steel were centered on the radical design and interconnected in coalescing design and engineering expression.

How about the interior of this brilliant, almost literally “diamond”, vehicle? Inside, the cabin is complemented with RS- quilted and perforated black leather and contrast stitching interior package, diamond gear selector, Churchill time clock facia insert and Kahn key ring in red enamel.

Of course, the Diamond Jubilee Rover runs on nothing else but Kahn’s wheels, perfectly conveying its essence and identity. Namely, these are the 22” Kahn RS 2-piece wheels in satin black, created using state-of-the art manufacturing and materials technology. They bring more elegance to the outer expression of the car with its simple clean lines, soft organic surfaces and a purposeful mechanical centre.

Source: A. Kahn Design

June 7, 2012

Citroen DS3 Graphic Art and DS3 JUST MAT Special Series

Citroen DS3 Graphic Art is the new bold limited edition special series of the DS3 model by the French Company. It includes stylish roof decal and will bring more style to anyone who wants to be different.

In addition to that Citroen is launching the new DS3 JUST MAT model, which will offer its customers refinement and uniqueness.

Citroen DS3 Graphic Art is the perfect car for the urban environment, equipped with all high-technologies one could think of. This limited series collection by Citroen includes all-new roof decal called “WOW STRIPE”.

The graphic and modern decal has subtle and pearlescent-effect stripes. Citroen is going to offer this state-of-the-art roof in two color variants: Opale White and Onyx Black.

Furthermore, the new limited edition model also gets 17-inch BELLONE wheel rims and chrome finished wing mirror housings and side strips. There is also a good choice of trim exterior colors, which are: Banquise White, Perla Nera Black, Aluminium Grey and Shark Grey.

The interior of the new limited edition model has got also the graphic touch. It was personalized with WOW STRIPE mats similar to the roof decal and a white or black dashboard insert (coordinated with the roof colour), which further enhances the personality of the DS3 GRAPHIC ART.

In terms of technologies included, this special edition comes equipped with the Connecting Box (jack socket, USB port and Bluetooth hands-free kit) and the Select Confort Pack, which features automatic air conditioning, automatic headlamps, automatic front wiper and rear parking assist as standard.

Citroen DS Graphic Art has a starting price of €19 750 and is available with the VTi 120 engine mated to a manual or auto gearbox, or with the e-HDi 90 Airdream powerplant with a manual gearbox or the 6-speed electronic gearbox system.

Citroen DS3 JUST MAT is the next limited edition which now enriches the DS3 model line-up. This model is now available with Hickory Mat body paint, which is complemented by the chrome-finished wing-mirror housings, side strips and rear lamp surrounds.

Undoubtedly it delivers more elegance, which is even further enhanced by an Onyx Black roof and 17-inch BELLONE diamond-effect black wheels.

The interior of the model is also refined and includes gloss dashboard insert, Mistral leather seat upholstery and a leather gearstick handle and handbrake. Moreover, as a standard equipment this DS3 has automatic air conditioning, the MyWay navigation system with the HiFi system, and CITROËN eTouch.

Citroen DS 3 JUST MATT is going to be produced in just 500 units, and is powered by the THP 155 and e-HDi 110 Airdream engines mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. Its initial prices start at €25 150.

Source: Citroen

June 7, 2012

High Gear SEMA Ford Mustang Concept to be build by women

High Gear SEMA Ford Mustang Concept is a product of the work of collaboration between Ford Motor Company and Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA). More importantly, standing under the name of “High Gear”, the car is the first ever SEMA Mustang which is going to be powered by women.

What does that mean? Basically, this satin-black luxury Ford Mustang concept is going to be build by group of women volunteers. In fact, in the design phase of the project were created three cars, among which the presented one stood out and was more appealing to the fans of the company.

“High Gear” is a design by Jennifer Seely of Ford, who was inspired by international products in categories such as jewelry, couture clothing and architecture. She developed the idea of the concept around the goal to stimulate the senses by fusing luxury and power.

Hence, some of the special features in this Mustang include rose-gold chrome accents throughout the exterior and interior; satin-black body; plush, quilted suede seats and a leather-wrapped interior. Further modifications will also be made to the engine, undercarriage, drivetrain and sound system.

The selected concept is now going to be built in eight weeks and this is going to be done entirely by group of women. This means that the actual work on the project is expected to be done from July to August this year. In the end, when the vehicle is ready it will make its debut at the 2012 SEMA show in Las Vegas.

Source: Ford

June 7, 2012

LEXUS IS F CCS-R to race in Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

LEXUS IS F CCS-R is a modified IS F sedan which will compete in the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. The racing will take place next month and will mark its 90th running.

This Lexus racing car has already debuted at the Tokyo Auto Salon back in 2010 as a concept vehicle; and now is ready to make its first achievements. It includes several modifications from the standard IS F sedan and of course these are in terms of improved performance and racing safety regulations.

In details, some of the transformations included are lightweight carbon fibre bodywork and interior details, and polycarbonate windows. The latter help reduce the standard vehicle’s weight by 314kg. In addition, it comes equipped with reinforced monocoque with roll cage, racing brake package, modified race suspension and racing exhaust system.

Lexus IS F CCS-R is propelled by the 2UR-GSE 5.0-litre V8 which is initially on the IS F. The engine develops 311kW (423 hp) and 505Nm (372 lb-ft) of torque and is mated to an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission with paddle shift.

Lexus IS F CCS-R Technical Data:

EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS: Wheelbase 2730mm; Overall length 4759mm; Overall width 1815mm; Overall height 1384mm

WEIGHT: Curb weight 1400kg (314kg less than standard road car)

ENGINE: Designation 2UR-GSE; Displacement 5.0-litre; Power 311kW @ 6,600rpm; Torque 505Nm @ 5,200rpm; Fuel system SFI D-4 direct-to-cylinder injection with secondary port injectors

DRIVETRAIN: Layout Front engine, rear-wheel drive system; Transmission 8-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic with paddle shift and manual mode

EXTERIOR: Orange mica exterior paint; Reinforced monocoque (with roll cage); Carbon fibre hood, door handles, front fender, front spoiler, front canard, rear spoiler, ventilator; Polycarbonate windows; Lightweight door

WHEELS/TYRES: SSR (18×8.5J, off-set 30 front; 18×9.5J, off-set 40 rear); Yokohama /ADVAN NEOVA A050 tyres (245/40 R18 front; 255/40 R18 rear)

BRAKES: Brake cooling system; Racing brake kit; Stainless steel mesh brake hose

SUSPENSION: Adjustable camber front upper arm; Modified race suspension; Reinforced bushings and mounts

EXHAUST: Racing exhaust system

OTHER MECHANICAL: Engine oil cooler; Transmission oil cooler; Differential oil cooler; Mechanical LSD

RACING EQUIPMENT: 120-litre fuel cell; Air jack system; Fire extinguishing system; Data logger; Kill switch; Tow strap

INTERIOR: Carbon fibre dashboard, centre console, door and interior trim; HANS compatible full bucket driver’s seat; Lightened interior (removed power windows, door locks, rear seats, roof lining, etc); Six-point seat belt; Small-diameter steering wheel with paddle shifters

Source: Lexus

June 7, 2012

Steven Tyler and the First 1244 HP Hennessey Venom GT Spyder

If you happen to know a thing or two about rock music then Aerosmith vocalist Steven Tyler is no stranger to you. If you are also familiar with the car industry, Hennessey Performance should ring a bell as well. Where do these two notions come together? In a Venom GT Spyder of course. The rocker is actually responsible for the creation of this monstrous roadster and he recently had the pleasure to be the first man on the planet to get one.

Back in 2011, Tyler walked in the Hennessey HQ in Texas and asked if he could have one of those Venom GT‘s but with an open top. The tuners considered it, did some structural changes to the rollcage (yes, it needs one) and there you have it – a Spyder. The weight however, went up by around 30 lbs and while that doesn’t sound much, it messed with the power to weight ratio which was originally 1hp for every 1kg. To even things out again, the guys at Hennessey did the most logical thing – more power.

The Venom GT Spyder now develops a healthy batch 1244 bhp. It’s the 7.0-liter twin turbo V8 engine that is actually responsible for it. Those figures supposedly make the Venom Spyder one of the fastest roadsters in the world. The 0 to 200 mph run takes less than 16 seconds, we are told, which puts the Bugatti Veyron Vitesse with the silver medalists.

There will be only five 2013 Venom GTs produced and three of them have already been sold. In other words, besides Steven Tyler, two other people had $1.1 million dollars to spare. That’s a lot of money for a car that’s based on the Lotus Exige. We say that, but actually, most of the original car was left out. Fingers crossed, they kept the suspension for this one.

Steven Tyler next to his Hennessey Venom GT-Steven — Steven Tyler next to his Hennessey Venom GT

Source: Hennessey Performance

June 7, 2012

Alpha-N Performance 1M RS BMW

Alpha-N is a relatively new, German based tuner house that has risen from the ashes of the now completely reorientated Veritas-VBT company. Today, they tickle our curiosity with this slim and healthy BMW 1M. As you can tell, It has been on a carbon-fiber diet which has shed weight but it has also been working out as it now flexes it’s muscle with 70 hp more. It’s the Alpha-N Performance 1M RS.

As we start off with the carbon-fiber winglets at the sides of the front bumper, we go through the carbon-fiber hood, then the roof, the trunk, the lip spoiler and the rear diffuser. Alpha-N are not too specific on exactly how much weight has been lost but we’ll have to believe them and say “a lot”.

Under this vented, hood, new airways provide better aspiration, an ECU map of the modified 3.0-liter engine brings the power to 410 hp and the new and sonorous exhaust system provides back-pressure relief. For stopping power, a set of MAC disc brakes sizing 380 mm have been used at the front. The pads within the six-piston calippers have flexible steel lines for better friction. Friction is also provided by the Michelin Cup 245 front and 265 back tires which are wrapped around extremely light O.Z. Superforgiata rims measuring 8.5×19 and 10.0×19 respectively.

The photo shoot has a deliberately close-up nature so that we can witness the interwoven carbon-fibery goodness that is most of the BMW’s exterior. See for yourselves:

Source: Alpha-N

June 7, 2012

Category: Auto News