Auto News – Page 917 – Automobiles Review

2012 Mopar Dodge Charger Redline

The brand new 2012 Dodge Charger Redline is now with more aggressive look and delivers more dynamism in performance. This is due to the 426 HEMI^®-powered showcase of new Mopar® performance kits. They will be available later this year. At the event of the 2012 North American International Auto Show, the Dodge Charger Redline vehicle with all three Mopar performance stage kits will make its first appearance.

What Mopar has done to enhance this beautiful vehicle is firstly to include aerodynamic carbon fiber exterior components and interior accents. In details these modifications include a full-width Mopar carbon fiber chin spoiler in order to give the Charger Redline a more aggressive appearance. Matching the Redline Tri-coat paint, the two-piece grille features a body-color painted-grille surround with black signature “crosshair” insert. Large 20 x 8-inch Mopar Black Envy Wheels feature a Pitch Black-painted wheel face with polished accents. In addition Mopar carbon fiber door scoops highlight Dodge Charger Redline’s signature body-side scallops and include heritage “R/T” badging (all this only to pay homage to the historic 1970 Charger version). To make the car more powerful there is also a three-piece Mopar carbon fiber rear spoiler. Moreover it also provides an even more dynamic look. To emphase Dodge Charger Redline’s fastback silhouette, Mopar made a vinyl roof graphic in matte black. Furthermore the Dodge Charger Redline’s cockpit design includes high quality materials and is additionally enhanced with a Mopar aluminum shift bezel and aluminum instrument panel bezel with Redline perimeter accent. Mopar had even taken care for the pedal covers, which are made from stainless steel and feature a rubberized pattern for improved traction.

The second improvement by Mopar concerns the bolt-on berformance parts, which deliver improved power, handling and braking. This performance kit allows the Dodge Charger Redline’s legendary HEMI^® V-8 engine to perform at its optimal level. Furthermore Mopar’s cat-back performance exhaust system provides an increase in horsepower. In order provide increased structural stability for improved handling dynamics, under the hood there is a front-tower cross-brace and front tower brace caps. For ultimate braking capability, high-performance Mopar brake linings are track tested and deliver fade-resistance during hard braking use.

Next Mopar has included its Gen III High Output 426 HEMI V-8 engine, with 590 Horsepower (434 kW) on Tap. With this enhancement the vehicle delivers 220 more horsepower than the 2012 Dodge Charger R/T. With its legendary 426 cubic-inch “Elephant Motor,” the Dodge Charger Redline delivers the astonishing 590 horsepower. All this is possible thank to the lightweight aluminum V-8 engine block that shaves more than 100 lbs. from the traditional cast-iron crate version. On the other hand the new Gen III High Output 426 HEMI engine includes a stout, balanced lower reciprocating assembly that features a forged-steel crankshaft with six-bolt mains at 2, 3 and 4, and cross-bolted 4-bolt mains at 1 and 5. H-beam style rods are made from forged steel and coupled to forged 11:1 compression ratio aluminum pistons. In order to provide excellent oil dispersion and to prevent oil aeration by the crankshaft, there is also included a revised windage tray. Moreover the Gen III High Output 426 HEMI engine’s valvetrain starts with a more aggressive roller camshaft with .639 intake and .628 exhaust lift and cylinder heads that feature the latest designs for excellent flow characteristics. In addition tie bars are also available, thus helping stabilizing the valvetrain at high engine rpm. At last, in this amazing Dodge Charger Redline’s Stage III performance kit are also included Mopar cast-aluminum valve covers and billet fuel rails.

Source: Chrysler

January 4, 2012

2012 AC Schnitzer MINI Cooper Coupé

What would make a MINI Cooper Coupé more sporting? The correct answer is – tuning experts from AC Schnitzer. Yes, they are working with the aim to deliver some impressive tuning highlights for the two-seater vehicle.

First of all there are some performance upgrades included. The modifications for the MINI Cooper SD Coupé and S Coupé are currently in development and planning respectively. More importantly is that there is already guaranteed a balanced handling on the exit from tight corners thank to the AC Schnitzer limited slip differential with locking up to 75%.

Moreover the perfect dynamic driving experience is improved by the acoustic qualities of the AC Schnitzer sports rear silencer of stainless steel with chromed Racing tailpipe trim. In addition the AC Schnitzer sports exhaust system balances the complete exhaust system to the demands of higher power and tuned engines. And to make the driving even more exciting there is also featured the AC Schnitzer high performance brake system. It includes 4-piston fixed caliper brakes (left/right) with slotted discs (left/right), the set of brake pads, caliper holder and steel flexible brake lines. In order to give the MINI Cooper Coupé high performance “movement gear“, the experts from AC Schnitzer have included a height-adjustable racing suspension (or the AC Schnitzer suspension spring kit), an aluminium strut brace and special antiroll bar for the rear axle.

Of course AC Schnitzer hasn’t forgotten how important the outer look is for the MINI. Hence, there is an AC Schnitzer decor set available in various designs, together with the rear “Technology & Design“sticker. Not forgetting the interior too, the MINI Cooper Coupé by AC Schnitzer can be enhanced by the AC Schnitzer gear knob with digital gear display, aluminium pedal set, foot rests, “Black Line” handbrake handle and velours foot mats. Furthermore a sporting stance on the road is provided by the AC Schnitzer Mi2 BiColor wheels in 18 inch or the Mi 1 silver wheels in 17 inch with corresponding tyres. At last this sporting car features the impressive chromed AC Schnitzer exhaust trim, which makes the final touch to the overall look of the MINI.

Source: AC Schnitzer

January 4, 2012

VMS M Sport 5 series

Vorsteiner have unveiled their latest project – V-MS for the BMW 5 series (F10) equipped with M Sport package. It involves an aerodynamic kit, new wheels and some exhaust system tweaks.

The aerodynamic kit consists of a front air splitter (designed to fit the M Sport bumper), a rear diffuser and a trunk lip spoiler – all in carbon fiber. These add-ons give a type of character to the 5 series while having a purposeful balancing role. A newly installed full cat back exhaust system ups the power by 12HP and enhances the output sound.

To round it up, the tuning house has also included a selection of 20 and 21 inch forged wheels. Feel free to browse around the gallery and see if you like it.

Source: Vorsteiner

January 3, 2012

Prior PD-R Aerodynamic Kit

Prior, the company that indulges in manufacturing perfect-fit aerodynamic kits for luxury performance cars and such, have a new offering – The Prior PD-R kit for the BMW 5 series (F10).

The company takes great interest in subtle elegance and this product is here to reinforce their stance. We have sleek sideskirts compatible with all F10 BMW’s, a sporty front bumper and a specially designed diffuser at the back. The latter two wont go on the M models but on any other specs they fit perfectly. The kit also includes all the nuts and bolts needed to seal the deal. Export only.

Source: Prior Design

January 3, 2012

2012 Caractere Porsche Cayenne

Caractere is a brand always with the aim of combining performance, quality and design, and at the same time Caractere Exclusive is a company specialized exclusively in the development and marketing of accessories for luxury vehicles. Furthermore Caractere Exclusive offers a full conversion kit which includes aerodynamic parts, light alloy wheel rims, sport exhaust systems and carbon fiber interior trim. All of this of course is especially developed for the PANAMERA and for the Cayenne. Moreover the company is in the process of developing a full range of equipment for the 991 and is intending to develop new products for new models as soon as they are launched on the market.

Too return to our muttons, Caractere Exclusive offers for the Cayenne a full conversion kit. It includes an aerodynamic kit, light alloy wheel rims, a sport exhaust system and a set of carbon fiber interior trims- thus making the vehicle look more adorable then ever. To go further into details, the aerodynamic kit consists of a complete front bumper, a complete rear bumper, a set of side skirts, a set of wheel arch extensions and a roof spoiler.

Additionally the company offers a sport exhaust system which enhances the performance and changes the sound of the engine. Next, Caractere Exclusive has improved the image of the vehicle more with the CW1 GRAPHITE or SILVER wheel rims 10×22” at the front and 11×22’’ at the rear. CW1 wheel rims are also available in the same widths in 20’’ and 21’’. Eventually, for the interior Caractere Exclusive offers a set of real carbon fiber trims which are available in various colours and different finishes.

Source: Caractere Exclusive

January 3, 2012

2012 Mopar Chrysler 200 Super S

The brand new 2012 Chrysler 200 sedan will be modified with Mopar parts and accessories. The vehicle is a rolling showcase for the latest Mopar exterior parts that will be available for the 200 sedan in 2012. The Chrysler 200 Super S by Mopar will make its first appearance at the 2012 North American International Auto Show. The Super S is Mopar’s view for Chrysler 200. And we must state that this new image of the vehicle is improved by the extensive list of high-quality Mopar parts which enhances the performance and look of our Chrysler 200.

At first, Mopar’s modifications start with the front of the car with a large chin spoiler, satin chrome fog light trim, satin chrome grille surround and mesh in the upper and lower grilles. Moreover, the upper grille is gloss black with a recessed Chrysler wing badge. Additionally, body sides feature new side sills, satin chrome belt molding, black chrome “200” badges and gray or hyper black 18-inch “S” alloy wheels. Next, from the rear view, the new image is capped off by a new trunk lid spoiler, satin chrome light bar and a matte black lower diffuser with attached exhaust openings. There is also added a coil-over suspension, which minimizes the center of gravity for the vehicle. Furthermore it includes a cold-air intake and cat-back exhaust.

In general the 2012 Chrysler 200 sedan delivers exceptional value without compromise. It has a sophisticated design, high-quality craftsmanship and technology, all combined they keep passengers entertained and connected. In addition the car also offers excellent fuel economy and exceptional power, thus delivering drivers and passengers with exciting drive, but look forward to it. Furthermore, the 2012 Chrysler 200 provides drivers an agile, confident, handling performance in all driving situations. To be more precise, the vehicle is offered with the proven 2.4-liter World Gas Engine and is available mated to a four-speed or six-speed automatic transmission, for an exceptionally fun and fuel-efficient driving experience. The 2.4-liter I-4 engine produces 173 horsepower (129 kW) and 166 lb.-ft. (225 NM) of torque and has an EPA estimated fuel economy rating of 21 miles per gallon (mpg) city and 30 mpg highway mated to the four-speed automatic transmission and 20 mpg city and 31 mpg highway when mated to the six-speed automatic transmission. The available 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, one of Ward’s “10 Best Engines”, provides exhilarating driving experience thank to the exceptional V-6 horsepower and fuel economy. Moreover the new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine is mated to the 62TE six-speed automatic transmission and produces 283 horsepower (211 kW) and 260 lb.-ft. (353 Nm) of torque. It has an EPA estimated fuel economy rating of 19 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. To make more individual, Chrysler Group offers the car in four different configurations: The Chrysler 200 LX, 200 Touring, 200 Limited and 200S. All models are packed with style, innovative features and a dynamic driving experience, and more importantly they are at an excellent value.
And with the package offered by Mopar, this car will be even more special for those driving it! Moper is well known for its innovations that deliver more excitement and dynamism in the driving experience. If you are not familiar Mopar is the first to introduce smartphone vehicle-information applications, which will deliver a new channel of communication with consumers. Moreover, Moper offers electronic owner manuals. More importantly is that they are the first to offer customers the ability to make their vehicle a wireless hot spot. You’ll definitely love this feature! It also has Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS). This is a new interactive vehicle tracking device that sends owner a text when vehicle is driven too fast or too far based on pre-set parameters. Mopar is Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand and no doubt it will enhance perfectly the new Chrysler 200 Super S!

And if you got already interested by this astonishing Mopar package on the Chrysler 200 Super S, it will be available on Chrysler 200S later in 2012. Mopar’s Chrysler 200 Super S will be one many Mopar-modified vehicles that will make their first appearance during the 2012 auto show season.

Source: Chrysler

January 3, 2012

2012 Cadillac Escalade Security Features

What a start of the year for Cadillac: just underneath the surface of the new 2012 Cadillac Escalade are new security features. Because the segment-leading luxury SUV is at the top of annual most-stolen vehicle lists, the brand has now developed a new way to combat thieves who have pushed and towed the SUV. The Escalade is well-protected against typical drive-away grand theft auto through existing security features and standard OnStar security technology. The aim is to make the Escalade a tough target for thieves without any added inconvenience for customers. The new system features strong protections, while working noiselessly in the background.

To go into details, the new 2012 security enhancements include PASS Key 3+, which is a sophisticated encryption system for the key; key cylinder and ignition system; a more-robust steering column-lock system that makes it nearly impossible to maneuver the Escalade onto a flatbed; an available inclination sensor that sets off an alarm when the system senses an unwarranted change of the angle of the vehicle, such as would occur with towing, flat-bedding or lifting the vehicle; an available shock sensor intended to reduce content theft and push-away theft by sounding the alarm when the vehicle is “shocked,” such as by breaking window glass; and finally, there is also available new wheel lock system to help prevent the theft of Escalade’s wheels and tires.

2012 Cadillac Escalade Security Features

In addition OnStar provides standard security with a distant ignition lock that can prevent the vehicle from starting if a break-in is detected. And if a vehicle is stolen, OnStar will also show the vehicle location and remotely slow the vehicle down to assist law enforcement in vehicle recovery. Furthermore the new inclination sensors will make it more difficult to push or tow this SUV undetected. Unnoticed thefts and break-ins will be also hampered by the added shock sensors and locking devices.

Undeniably all these types of innovative theft prevention technologies are an important step in lowering thefts.

2012 Cadillac Escalade Premium Collection

Source: Cadillac

January 3, 2012

2011 Top 10 Tunings

If you wonder which are the most creative and astonishing tunings that we have seen during the almost gone 2011, here we have picked 10 of the most impressive ones. There were several factors that have been considered in order to make this top 10. First of all exterior tuning, next is the overall improvement in the performance, and at last is the changes made in the interior.

VILNER SATURN SKY

This unique Vilner design has made it through in our top 10. Vilner Saturn Sky boasts nice oriental blue exterior combined with a red interior. The tuner also included LED daytime running lights for the front bumper. However there is more attention put on the interior: it includes black Alcantara and carbon fiber trim parts, as well as new dials, a carbon fiber steering wheel and new upholstery. In the package is also included a newly fitted high-end Ground Zero sound system. Unfortunately there is nothing done to improve the performance of the car. It comes with its standard 2.0 liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine with 260PS (194 kW) and 353Nm (260 lb-ft) of torque. From 0 to 100 km/h it accelerates in just 5.5 seconds.

Exterior:	[rating:5/10]
Interior:	[rating:10/10]
Performance:	[rating:2/10]

MARANGONI RANGE ROVER EVOQUE

The next place in our chart goes for this beautiful tuning of Range Rover Evoque. As you can see it grabs the attention with its red tires, strange rims and a lot of carbon fiber all. The SUV also has an improved body kit which features redesigned front bumper and aluminum bonner with integrated air intakes, and a new rear bumper with an integrated carbon diffuser. In addition there are also carbon wheel arches, boot handle, bottom door guards and mirror covers. Furthermore the interior is improved by a lot of carbon fiber and some Alcantara. The last “touch” are the 20” OZ Racing Dakar wheels wrapped in 255/30 ZR20 red M-Power tires. To improve the overall performance of the car the Marangoni Range Rover Evoque comes with 60PS (44 kW) more, which means a total of 300PS (225 kW) from the 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine. In addition the performance is further improved by a complete braking system – Tarox B360 with 10-piston calipers and and 330×26 mm composite disks.

Exterior:	[rating:9/10]
Interior:	[rating:4/10]
Performance:	[rating:5/10]

BMW ALPINA B6 BI-TURBO CONVERTIBLE

BMW Alpina B6 Bi-Turbo Convertible tuning is based on the well known 650i model. It has all-aluminium bi-turbo V8 power plant which boasts 507PS (373 kW) and staggering 700Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque. It accelerates from0 to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds and its top speed is 311 km/h (193 mph). Moreover Alpina B6 Bi-Turbo Convertible also comes with complete aerodynamic package including front and rear bumpers and side skirts. There are also a four-tailpipe Akrapovic sports exhaust system and huge 20” alloy wheels. Concerning the interior the B6 Bi-Turbo Convertible has just the extensive range of standard equipment, which includes leather upholstery, fully adjustable comfort seats with heating system, navigation system with preparation for Bluetooth mobile phone, USB audio interface, Xenon lights and LED fog lights. Unfortunately there isn’t any upgrade in the interior. For this reason this special car has the number eight in our chart.

Exterior:	[rating:7/10]
Interior:	[rating:5/10]
Performance:	[rating:7/10]

OAKLEY DESIGN LAMBORGHINI AVENTADOR LP760-2

This Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 is an every-day road-going car with great power and specifications. Oakley Design’s tuning of it is called LP760-2 and the model is only rear wheel drive. The vehicle has been stripped of its front differential and related components, so it is much lighter – totally 85 kg (187 pounds). Furthermore, the 6.5 liter V12 engine is upgraded to gain another 71PS and 55Nm. Hence, the total output is 771PS (567 kW) and 745Nm (550 lb-ft). In addition this amazing tuning stands on enormous Oakley Design P40 wheels with dimensions 9.0J to 9.5J x 19” at the front, and from 12.0J to 13.0J x 20” at the rear fitted with ultra-performance 255/35ZR19 and 355/30ZR20 Pirelli PZero tires. Further modifications are made on the aerodynamics which features: modified front bumper, new side skirts, revised rear bumper with a new diffuser. The car also comes with a carbon fiber roof for further weight saving and stylish improvement.

Exterior:	[rating:7/10]
Interior:	[rating:6/10]
Performance:	[rating:7/10]

HENNESSEY VENOM RED

Hennessey Performance ultra-fast beast – 2011 Venom GT has deserved its place in our top 10. First of all it has astonishing exterior, finished in passionate red body color. Furthermore it is powered by an in-house tweaked 6.2-liters V8 twin-turbo powerplant which is linked to a Ricardo 6-speed gearbox, the Chassis Number 03 – Venom GT is capable of producing the breath-taking figures of 1,200 horsepower and 1,155 lb-ft of peak torque, while boasting a curb weight of just 2,685 pounds! The HPE Venom GT is based upon a completely re-designed Lotus chassis, packed with all-new front and rear space frames as well as state-of-the-art carbon-made body with automatic rear wing that contributes remarkably for the super ride’s drivability at high speeds.

Exterior:	[rating:7/10]
Interior:	[rating:7/10]
Performance:	[rating:7/10]

MAGNAT SNOWMOBILE Porsche GT3

The next place goes for Porsche GT3 with the tuning package from Magnat and Wimmer. Here the mighty 3.8 liter flat-six received updated software and modified exhaust system including sport catalysts and suction tubes optimization. The overall result in power optimization is 462HP (340 kW) and 451Nm (334 lb-ft). The top speed is 317 km/h (197 mph). Snowmobile Porsche GT3 stands on Ultraleggera HLT CT by OZ in 8.5J x 19” and 12J x 19” fitted with 235/35 ZR19 and 305/30 ZR19 Yokohama Advan Sport tires. What about the interior: Magnat has used materials from highest quality such as leather, Alcantara and high gloss paintwork. All this let the GT3 shine in its unique design, the dynamic diamond patterns setting sportive and, in the same time, exclusive accents. In addition there is an audio system with 2100 WATTS.

Exterior:	[rating:7/10]
Interior:	[rating:7/10]
Performance:	[rating:8/10]

MERCEDES SLR BLACK ARROW BY EDO COMPETITION

Edo Competition’s SLR Black Arrow is an extremely powerful vehicle that incredibly quickens the pulse when its pedal hits the metal. Based upon the renowned Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Coupe, the edo competition’s SLR Black Arrow conversion benefits a special, stealth-like exterior finish, a new high-tech stainless steel exhaust unit as well as sleek, 21-inch lightweight racing alloys wrapped in high-performance rubber.

In the power compartment, the revised McLaren SLR Coupe’s hand-built 5.4-liters, supercharged V8 plant now tops the extraordinary figure of 722 horsepower at 7,100 revolutions and 890 Nm of peak torque, resulting in top speed of 345 km/h and only 3.4 seconds for 0-100km/h acceleration sprint. Furthermore, the edo SLR Black Arrow has premium leather/alcantara upholstery, special steering wheel with shift paddles and custom carbon applications on the dashboard, center console and door panels. A high-end sound system with navigation, phone, TV and iPod, as well as a reversing camera add even more exclusivity to this already iconic ride’s re-styled cockpit.

Exterior:	[rating:7/10]
Interior:	[rating:8/10]
Performance:	[rating:8/10]

EDO COMPETITION KOENIGSEGG CCR

Edo Competition makes it with another tuning in our chart. This time the car is Koenigsegg CCR, which is the next level above super sport like the mighty Lamboghinis, Ferraris and Porsches.

CCR is powered by a 4.7 liter twin-supercharged V8. Edo Competition boosted the engine of this beast to the whopping 891PS (655 kW) thanks to an ECU re-map. The drive ratio is also improved to gain the hyper car better stability and faster acceleration. The top speed is 390 km/h (242 mph). There are also improvements in the interior, which has received Alcantara upholstery, a redesigned center console, a new infotainment system, and a tire pressure monitoring system that has a display integrated into the dashboard.

Exterior:	[rating:8/10]
Interior:	[rating:8/10]
Performance:	[rating:8/10]

ABT AUDI R8 GT S

This ABT Audi R8 GT S got the place of number two in our chart not only because of the incredible outlook it has, but also because it produces 620PS (456 kW). This is due to the 5.2 liter V10 engine, which has received a number of upgrades. The convertible stands on enormous 20” ABT BR alloys or 19” CR Superlight rims. There are also some improvements in the interior: red carbon on almost every single detail, sports steering wheel, centre console, shifting gate and parts of the door panels. The remaining parts of the doors and the dashboard are upholstered with new leather. We can’t go further without mentioning the red safety belts and illuminated door sill panels for the overall powerful appearance of the ABT R8 GT S.

Exterior:	[rating:9/10]
Interior:	[rating:8/10]
Performance:	[rating:8/10]

WIESMANN BLACK BAT

And the first place goes to…. Wiesmann’s Black Bat! The company SchwabenFolia in Korntal-Münchingen situated in Baden-Württemberg has created this astonishing Wiesmann MF5 V10 Roadster. The project name is Black Bat because it represents the ultimate Batmobile in reality! Everything is tuned in this car. Firstly this vehicle comes with an extra matte black exterior, door panels, engine room and the inner hood, as well as the completely foiled trunk and inner flap. This breathtaking tuned car is powered by the brilliant S85B50 – 5.0 liter V10 with 507PS (378 kW) at 7750RPM and 520Nm (384 lb-ft) of torque at 6100RPM. Furthermore the BMW’s Performance engine includes cast aluminum block with bed plate design split at the crankshaft axis, cast aluminum heads with four valves per cylinder and CNC machined ports and combustion chambers. All these engine boosts result in enhanced acceleration, which for the standard 0-100 km/h takes only 3.5 seconds. Moreover the top speed is more than 321 km/h (200 mph). You can see how amazingly this car looks. Its movie-like appearance is improved by the enormous BBS forged alloy wheels 10J x 20” with 285/30 ZR20 tires at the front and 11.5J x 20” with 325/25 ZR20 on the rear axle. Behind them, there are brembo 6-piston calipers with 308 x 32 mm perforated compound brake discs and 4-piston calipers with 380 x 28 mm discs at the rear. The interior is also enhanced thus: all in the interior is covered with high quality leather which gives the car the perfect finish! All results in the overall weight of 1395 kg. No doubt now that this car deserves the first place!

Exterior:	[rating:10/10]
Interior:	[rating:8/10]
Performance:	[rating:9/10]

December 29, 2011

The QX56 Powered Boat

A bunch of students from the Tennessee Technical Center in Nashville and the Nashville State Community College have successfully managed to extract a 400-horsepower 5.6-liter V8 from an unfortunate Infinity QX56. All they need to do now is to wait for a craftsman, a thousand miles away in Freeport, Maine, to complete his work on a completely stripped down Chris-Craft Holiday boat. So, what’s the connection in all of this? Well, these are stages of a project called Infiniti QX56-Powered Boat which is exactly what it sounds like: they are going to marry the Infinity engine to a renovated version of the 1962 boat.

This is not a pioneering case of a mechanical heart transplant. Chris-Craft boats have had a history with “Hotroding” (the process in which a powerful engine unit is coupled with a classic chassis). Previously, power plants such as the 431-cubic inch Lincoln marine engine or the 440-cubic inch Chrysler Hemi marine V8 one, have had the pleasure of propelling those iconic, mahogany vessels.

“The use of the powerful Infiniti QX56 V8 is fitting with the history of this particular craft,” explained George “Dodo” Brockman, owner of Freeport Boat Outlet, who is overseeing the build of the Infiniti boat project. The Infiniti V8 is actually lighter than all of the previous powerplants and won’t require any special bracing or hull modifications to fit it into the original engine bay.”

So the QX56 V8 is more of an evolution than everything else. However you don’t just yank out a V8 from a car and strap it to a boat without tweaking it beforehand. After removal the engine had to be sent at Bracket Marine in Westbrook, Maine for a trial with its future ZF/Hurth marine transmission. Then Alabama was the place where new, water-cooled exhaust manifolds were fitted and also a closed cooling system was adapted. One stop still remains to be done – Its back at Infinity’s for a close inspection to see if everything is up to standards. Hopefully by the time the engine is fully ready to install, the restoration process of the Chris-Craft Holiday boat will have been completed with an all new, rot-free, frame patched together by mahogany plates. Other genes from the Infinity QX56 will also be transferred on to the boat – leather upholstery, NavWeather™ provided by XM® and a speaker and sub-woofer system all complete the luxurious package that will be the Chris-Craft QX56.

Source: Infiniti

December 29, 2011

Chevrolet Volt to conquer China in 2012

The first Chevrolet Volt has made its debut this month in China at the HaiTong Port in Shanghai. The car is part of a 10-vehicle General Motors demonstration fleet which is going to be presented in Beijing, Tianjin and Shanghai. All of the exhibited electric vehicles will give customers the chance to experience an industry-leading electric vehicle in daily use. Moreover GM will use information taken from the test drives and charging experience in order to understand better the application of electric vehicles in China. Therefore the company will provide consumers with hands on exposure to the extended range vehicle concept. This is very important step that GM will undertake to prepare for an expansion of offerings of vehicles powered by electricity. In addition GM will also work closely with government and industry officials. The aim is to help develop a public vehicle charging infrastructure.

The award-winning Volt will be sold through thirteen especially selected dealerships in eight substantial cities in the country. To conquer one of the first global markets such as China, Volt provides drivers with no compromises in performance or driving range, having in mind that it is the first extended range electric vehicle. Moreover Volt provides up to 80 kilometers of electric driving. And then after battery consumption it can drive another 490 kilometers using an on-board engine generator! Therefore there will be no fear of being stranded by a spent battery. The car is the best electric vehicle solution for China nowadays, because it is not limited by range or a public charging. More importantly the Volt is also very economical to operate. For instance when it is charged during off-peak hours it costs less than one-tenth of the amount of driving on petrol vehicle alone.

Volt models for retail sale, priced at RMB 498,000, will arrive in early 2012 at thirteen selected dealerships in Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou, Wuxi, Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Foshan.

Source: General Motors

December 29, 2011

Vilner Mercedes Vito 120 CDI

Vilner has announced their new project. It is based on Mercedes Vito 120 CDI, which is turned to a real eye-catcher, instead of an ordinary family van. The big vehicle received unique interior and some exterior modifications.

Firstly, the interior looking exactly like one in a private airplane. It features seats from Mercedes CL with mahogany armrests, luxurious tables and extra soundproofing. Other upgrades include an Amareta-covered rear-view mirror, an ergonomic steering wheel, and extra built-in chargers for mobile phone, a huge 19″ LCD display, a hi-fi multimedia system, ambient lighting, a refrigerator and a minibar. Basically, it has whatever you need to feel comfortably during long trips across the country or the continent, especially with the superbly efficient diesel engine.

Mercedes Vito 120 CDI is powered by a 3.0 litre V6 common-rail turbodiesel engine with 204PS (150 kW) and 440Nm (325 lb-ft). From 0 to 100 km/h in 8.3 seconds and average fuel consumption of 9.2 litres per 100 km. Not bad specs for a family van!

Lastly, the exterior of Vilner Vito comes with a set of big alloy wheels fitted with lowprofile tires, Bi-xenon headlights with brows and LED daytime running lights.

Source: Vilner

December 28, 2011

Senner Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

Senner Tuning has unveiled their program for the famous Mercedes SLS AMG. It includes performance modifications and some improvement of the stance.

The new Gullwing is powered by the most powerful naturally aspirated V8 in the world – AMG’s 6.2 liter beast with 571PS (420 kW) and 650Nm (479 lb-ft). It is boosted to 606PS (446 kW) and 690Nm (509 lb-ft). The results are thanks to a number of upgrades – an ECU re-map, optimized air-flow and new stainless steel sports exhaust system.

The sports coupe stands on enormous Corniche Vegas wheels – 9J x 20” with 255/30 R20 tires on the front axle and 11J x 20” with 285/30 R20 on the rear. The stance is further improved by a set of adjustable coilovers from KW.

The price for these upgrades start at €19 500.

Source: Senner

December 28, 2011

Category: Auto News