Category: Auto News

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

  • Alfa Romeo 4C at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show

    Alfa Romeo 4C Concept was firstly introduced at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show and now the manufacturer has brought it in Frankfurt.

    Actually, the model 4C will hit the US market somewhere in 2013, but Alfa Romeo didn’t release any further information.

    The engine is the well-known 1750 TBi petrol engine delivering 200PS (147 kW). The vehicle also boasts extremely low weight of around 850kg, which means power-to-weight ratio lower than 4kg/hp.

    The results are thanks to a superbly light chassis supporting a body made of carbon fiber. The rear frame structure and the crash boxes are made of aluminum.

    So, Alfa Romeo 4C will be not only fast in straight line, but in the corners, too. Finally, Lotus Exige will have it’s true rival.

    Looking forward for more information about this small super sports car.

    Alfa 4C Frankfurt 2011
    Alfa 4C Frankfurt 2011

    Source: Alfa Romeo

  • Land Rover Defender Concept DC100 in Frankfurt

    Land Rover took the interesting DC100 Concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The vehicle is practically the new Defender model, which is expected sometimes in 2015, of course, if the world does not end in 2012…

    Here is an interesting video directly from the Auto Show published by Marchettino in Youtube. You can see all the interesting extras of the DC100.

    The SUV is powered by a 2.0 liter petrol engine and a 2.0 liter diesel, which are mated to an 8-speed gearbox.

    As the world is gone mad with the hybrid technologies, both engines will be included in hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains.

    Check out the video, below!

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IRLK4hvUSL8

    Land Rover Defender DC100 Sport Frankfurt 2011
    Land Rover Defender DC100 Sport Frankfurt 2011

    Source: Marchettino via Youtube

  • MEC Design Mercedes-Benz SLS 63 AMG

    The SLS 63 AMG is a living legend even now – there is no doubt about it. Of course, it is anything but simple for any Mercedes-Benz refiner. The Berlin refiner MEC Design thought long and hard about the subject of the SLS and specifically had one imported from American Orlando. Now they present a breathtakingly beautiful complete conversion

    Of course, this masterpiece includes a customised body kit. The front bumper is either a single- or two-part construction with attached spoilers, with optional LED inserts (if desired also in carbon) being available as well. The SLS owner must make a difficult decision for the tail bumper, which is offered with three different diffusor inserts. Alternatively, it is also available in carbon. The customer can choose between “Extreme”, “Formula” or “GT3”. A side sill cover that can be equipped with four LEDs each if desired makes for a more attractive silhouette.
    A tail spoiler and a two-part pane spoiler, as well as a roof scoop complete the car body set – all three elements also available in carbon.

    MEC Design Mercedes-Benz SLS 63 AMG
    MEC Design Mercedes-Benz SLS 63 AMG

    The four mecxtreme3 wheel rims are perfectly elegant and exclusive at once. The front ones are 10.5×20 with 265/30 ZR20 and the rear ones 11.5×21 with 295/25 ZR21 tyres. If desired, they can be combined with 11 or 11.5×20 in front and 12.5×20 in the rear. The chassis of the SLS offers a lift-up system that permits height adjustment of the chassis by 30 mm at the front and rear axle by the push of a button to conquer obstacles like garage entrances or traffic obstacles. The threaded chassis also warrants maximum lowering by up to 70 mm.

    A specialty of MEC Design is certainly production of exclusive exhaust systems. The system installed here is a true highlight as well. The stainless steel sport end muffler has a gigantic, very deep and low sound in particular at higher speeds. Of course, the original AMG system can be retained as well – in combination with the four MEC design end pipes.

    For the interior of the SLS, MEC Design presents a dedicated collection. The entire carbon interior covers the centre console, the door strips, the entry bars, the seat cover, the seat casing and the compartment between the rear seats with exclusive carbon fibre. Added to this is a set of MEC design rugs with nubuck edge and double seams, as well as a carbon/alcantara sports steering wheel. Finally, the entire trunk of the SLS was edged in alcantara and applied with a double seam and a logo.

    Source: MEC Design

  • Wiesmann Roadster MF3 Final Edition at the 2011 Frankfurt

    Wiesmann showcased MF3 Roadster Final Edition at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The special limited edition vehicle was created with the assistance of Sieger fashion.

    MF3 Roadster Final Edition boasts a bespoke interior with premium leather and chrome accents. It is also available in 18 different colours as the showcased model is in white.

    Wiesmann MF3 Roadster is powered by a 3.2 liter naturally aspirated BMW engine, which is well-known from M3 E46. It delivers 343PS (252 kW) and 365Nm (269 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to either a 5 or 6-speed manual gearbox or an optional 6-speed SMG. The performance is brutal – 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 255 km/h (158 mpg).

    The price is not announced, yet.

    Wiesmann GT MF5 Frankfurt 2011
    Wiesmann GT MF5 Frankfurt 2011

    Source: Wiesmann

  • KICHERER SLS Roadster Supersport GT/R

    In matters of individualisation the traditional tuning house Kicherer has taken on the new AMG Mercedes SLS Roadster.

    True to the company‘s philosophy to consistently only supplement the AMG‘s basic shape and to retain its basic lines, a new, more sporty version of the Roadster was in essence created. Especially the aerodynamics benefited from the high quality final touch. For this the developers created and mounted a sporty front spoiler, side skirts and a specially hand-made GT front grill. More accents are provided by the small aerodynamic fins that can be mounted on the bonnet and on the wings. All the new add-on components created by KICHERER are, of course, made of high quality carbon.

    A further highlight on the sports car is provided by the three-part 20 inch RS-1 lightweight complete wheels.The classic double-spoke design harmonises perfectly with the equally classic sports car silhouette of this retro-sports car.

    KICHERER SLS Roadster Supersport GT/R
    KICHERER SLS Roadster Supersport GT/R

    In addition, a coilover suspension with a socalled „Front Up“ system is mounted on the car. This not only makes driving more sporty but also suits the vehicle perfectly. Moreover, it also makes it possible to raise the front of the car by just pressing on a button, so that obstacles such underground carpark entry ramps and speed bumps can be more easily overcome.

    On the rear of the car a stainless steel exhaust with four oval endpipes controlled by dynamic pressure sonorously allows the exhaust fumes out into the open. An integrated valve control gives the driver – depending on the occasion – the opportunity of choosing between a sonorous and discrete tone.

    The KICHERER developers have also tightened the performance screw a little and , thanks to the sports air filter exclusive to KICHERER, managed to achieve an actual every day performance of 630 PS – instead of the standard 571 PS. Those who like it even more sporty can order the second performance level. This possesses in addition an exhaust manifold system and a sports catalysor that combined with the modification from the first level guarantee a top performance of 650 PS at 720 Nm torque.

    This means the open air SLS sprints to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds and reaches a sealed-off top speed of 320 km/h.

    Is flying really more exciting???

    Source: KICHERER

  • Peugeot HX1 Concept in Frankfurt

    The Peugeot HX1 Concept is a really interesting car. It is co-designed with a shoe designer – Pierre Hardy. The result is fascinating – HX1 has four reverse-opening half-scissor doors, which can be opened wide for ease of access to the passenger compartment.

    The dimensions are unique, too – height – 1373 mm, width 1990mm and a length of 4 954 mm.

    HX1 is powered by a Peugeot’s HYbrid4 technology including a 2.2 liter HDi with 204PS (150 kW) and an electric motor with 95PS (70 kW), which powers the rear wheels. The total power is 299PS (220 kW), which is more than satisfying.

    Furthermore, the plug-in hybrid HX1 is extremely efficient – 3.2 liters per 100 km and CO2 emissions of 83 g/km. Still, you can go up to 30 km (18.5 miles) in all-electric mode.

    The idea is great, the figures, too. So, we can only hope for HX1 to hit the market really soon.

    Peugeot HX1 Frankfurt 2011
    Peugeot HX1 Frankfurt 2011

    Source: Peugeot

  • Abarth 695 Competizione in Frankfurt

    The Abarth 695 Competizione is born to be the first “street legal” Scorpion racing car. It is showcased  at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.

    Like a real racing car, this is a two seater in which the rear seats are replaced by a roll bar the same Grigio Competizione Opaco shade as the bodywork. In this way the car acquires additional sporting character because the roll bar decreases its weight, making it even better performing.

    It also boasts special sport suspension, 17” alloy wheels fitted with low-profile performance tires and Brembo brake system including 305 mm discs with 4-piston calipers behind the rims.

    The interior comes with Sabelt racing seats, some carbon fiber elements and each 695 Competizione is numbered. There are no rear seats, but Abarth fitted a roll bar for further stiffness and safety.

    Abarth 695 Competizione is powered by a 1.4 liter turbocharged petrol engine with 180PS (132 kW) and 270Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 5-speed sequential gearbox, which delivers the torque to the front wheels. 0 to 100 km/h in under 7 seconds and a top speed of 225 km/h (140 mph).

    Besides all that power, the small car averages 6.5 litres per 100 km and just 151 g/km of CO2.

    Last, but not least there is a “Record Monza” variable back-pressure “dual mode” exhaust, designed to improve engine performance and sound over 3 000 RPM.

    Abarth 695 Competizione Frankfurt 2011
    Abarth 695 Competizione Frankfurt 2011

    Source: Fiat

  • Ford Evos Concept at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show

    Ford is currently exhibiting Evos Concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The vehicle showcases the new ideas of the company in terms of style. Evos is a four-door coupe featuring aggressive front end, LED headlights and center-mounted exhaust at the rear housed by a sporty diffuser.

    “The Ford Evos Concept unites three key elements which are at the core of our One Ford global product strategy: outstanding design, smart technologies and fuel economy leadership,” commented Derrick Kuzak, group vice president of Global Product Development.

    “With its compelling design and innovative technology experience, this is a clear demonstration of the exciting vision we have for the Ford brand. While you will never see this car on the road, the next generation of Ford products around the world will display many of the distinctive design ideas and advanced technologies it showcases.”, he added.

    Ford Evos Concept is powered by a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain providing the same next-generation performance and fuel economy as the Ford C-MAX Energi scheduled for introduction in North America in 2012 and Europe in 2013. The powertrain includes a 2.0 liter petrol engine helped by an electric motor.

    Ford Evos Concept Frankfurt 2011
    Ford Evos Concept Frankfurt 2011

    Source: Ford

  • Lotus Evora GTE Limited Edition

    Lotus has revealed Evora GTE Limited Edition at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.

    It is powered by a 3.5 liter V6 with 444PS (327 kW), which is mated to a sequential AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) racing gearbox. The car also boasts lightweight, forged alloy rims with central locking fitted with Pirelli P-Zero Corsa tires.

    Lotus also cut the overall weight with 105 kg (227 lbs) over the standard Evora model.

    The interior comes with lightweight Recaro seats made of carbon. There are also some other carbon elements and leather upholstery.

    “The response to this model in China has been so incredible, within days we had sold out with 114 orders. In response we decided that the only logical step from a business perspective was to increase production and widen our reach.”, said Group Lotus CEO Dany Bahar.

    “What is unique about this car, is not just that it’s a serious race car – it’s a serious car. People get so excited when they see and especially hear it for the first time. It’s a very special car and will appeal to a very special type of driver – and they won’t be disappointed!”, he fisnihed.

    Lotus Evora GTE Frankfurt 2011
    Lotus Evora GTE Frankfurt 2011

    Source: Lotus

  • Jaguar C-X16 at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show

    The staggering C-X16 Concept was unveiled by Jaguar at the Frankfurt Motor Show in Germany. Actually, the car will hit the market, but in 2013 and the model will be named XE.

    Jaguar C-X16 is powered by a 3.0 liter supercharged V6 with the hefty 380PS(280 kW) and 450Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox. Furthermore, the petrol engine can be helped by an electric motor, which gives additional boost of 95 PS (70 kW). The performance is brutal – 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph).

    “What better way to start the motor show than by driving such a selection of beautiful sporting vehicles through Frankfurt, culminating with the global debut of the future of Jaguar sports cars – the C-X16.”, said Frank Klaas, Global Head of Communications for Jaguar Land Rover.

    Jaguar C-X16 concept
    Jaguar C-X16 concept

    Source: Jaguar

  • BMW i3 and i8 at the Frankfurt Motor Show

    BMW exhibits the ECO-friendly concepts i3 and i8 at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. Both vehicles will set a new bars in turn of efficiency.

    The small i3 Concept is a four-seater city car with 5 doors, which is powered only by electric motor, but with astonishing power – 170PS (125 kW) and 250Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. There is a lithium-ion battery package delivering up to 160 km (100 miles) range. 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and top speed of 150 km/h (93 mph). The overall weight of the vehicle is 1250 kg (2755 lbs). BMW i3 is perfect for everyday driving with its range and once the battery is depleted, it can be recharged in just 6 hours to 100%.

    The i8 Concept is completely different vehicle. It comes with a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder petrol combined with an electric motor. The total power is 353PS (260 kW) and 550Nm (406 lb-ft) of torque. 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The curb weight of the vehicle is 1480kg, so the results are impressive.

    The i8 can go on electricity alone up to 35 km (20 miles), which means that you’ll need just 2.7 liters of fuel per 100 km and the CO2 emission are as low as 66 g/km.

    BMW i8 Concept Rear
    BMW i8 Concept Rear

    Source: BMW

  • Hamann Porsche Panamera

    Porsche Panamera has received another tuning package, but this time from the well-known Hamann GmBH.

    The wide body kit includes completely restyled front and rear bumpers as well as a pair of huge side skirts and a larger rear wing. A unique rear diffuser houses the interesting tailpipe tips of the sports exhaust system. Furthermore, the whole car is widened with 60mm at both the front and rear axles.

    Hamann Porsche Panamera stands on enormous Unique Forged Gunmetal 9.5J x 22” alloy wheels fitted with 265/30 ZR22 at the front and 11.0J x 22” fitted with 305/25 ZR22 at the rear.

    For perfect stance, the SUV has received a lowering module for the air suspension allowing -30mm.

    The interior boasts leather and Alcantara, sport aluminum pedals and piano lacquer trim.

    The performance upgrade includes an ECU re-map for Panamera Turbo, which give additional 80PS (59 kW) and 120Nm (89 lb-ft) of torque.

    Hamann Porsche Panamera
    Hamann Porsche Panamera

    Source: Hamann