Car Makes – Page 374 – Automobiles Review

Toyota Camry Hybrid to be Even More Efficient? See the Prototype!

Toyota announced that it is currently conducting tests on a new technology that could make hybrids and other vehicles with electric powertrains even more efficient. A trial, which will take one year, will be conducted in Japan and will rate the performance of new power semi-conductors that work with silicon carbide (SiC) material. They will be fitted to a Camry hybrid prototype and a hydrogen fuel cell-powered bus.

These conductors can be seen in hybrids and other EVs, and are found in the power control units that govern the motor. They manage the exact use of electricity and send the power from the battery to the motors when the car is being driven. Of course, they also recharge the battery during braking or deceleration.

At the moment, the conductors used account for 20 per cent of a vehicle’s electrical losses. And this is the reason that made Toyota take the decision to increase the efficiency of the complete powertrain. This will happen via the development of high-quality SiC type conductors create less resistance when electricity flows through them.

The tests will be conducted on Camry hybrid prototype and a hydrogen fuel cell-powered bus. Toyota has installed SiC power semiconductors, meaning transistors and diodes, in the PCU’s internal voltage step-up converter and the inverter that controls the motor. It will gather all the needed information, including PCU voltage and current, and driving speeds, patterns, and weather conditions.

Toyota will compare the new data to the previous one, collected from the conductors currently in use, and then will assess the level of efficiency achieved. The Camry road test will take place in Toyota City and will last more than a year. They will begin in early February.

Source: Toyota

January 30, 2015

Two Video Teasers Ahead of Renault KADJAR Reveal

KADJAR is the name of the new crossover of Renault, which will be unveiled on 2nd of February live from the Cité du Cinéma (Saint Denis, France). The vehicle will be introduced by Carlos GHOSN, CEO. This is very important step in the development of the brand, since the car is expected to be a best-seller and attract new customers. There is literally no information released about it, except for two videos and an image which show its adventurous and outdoorsy spirit.

The upcoming crossover will be probably based on the second generation Nissan Qashqai platform and we expect that they will share the same engine range. Its styling cues will be probably taken from the Espace. We also want to see the KADJAR with the on-road behavior and engine range of the Quashqai.

This means that it will be probably powered by a diesel 1.6-liter DCi engine, delivering around 150 horsepower (110 kW). The strange name of the model comprises of two syllables: KAD and JAR. The first took inspiration from “quad” and shows the “go-anywhere” spirit of the crossover. The second one, JAR, stands for the French words “jaillir” and “agile”, meaning smooth agility and sudden appearance from somewhere.

In addition, the upcoming vehicle is also expected to be best-seller in Europe. Renault is actually expecting to sell 118,000 units of the Kadjar in 2016. This would position the KADJAR on the third place in the segment, being behind the Qashqai and the Tiguan.

httpv://youtu.be/QtXLKpo6zF4

httpv://youtu.be/UnOGlSVfeoE

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Renault

January 30, 2015

Kia to Reveal Mysterious Electric AWD in Chicago

2015 Kia Concept Chicago In exactly two weeks from now Kia is going to premiere a mysterious vehicle at the upcoming Chicago Auto Show. The company is keeping tight-lipped about it and didn’t reveal even the name. What we have just received is the first teaser image of the vehicle and scarce information. The first big thing about it is that it will be advanced and capable electric vehicle, and the second is that it will feature all-wheel drive. This means that it will be an e-AWD concept.

The bold off-roader was created by Kia’s California design studio. Now the car is in real form and aims at the city dwellers seeking the ultimate urban escape. The concept is intended to enable a wide array of outdoor activities such as skiing or snowboarding, camping or hiking, and even mountain biking.

It definitely promises adventures at higher elevations and more importantly – it focuses on the environmental side of the automotive industry. This concept will prove that practical urban wheels can also be rugged and capable.

Rumors say that the off-roader will be based in the Soul EV model. And we are wondering whether it will use its powetrain. The aforementioned vehicle is driven by a 27 kWh lithium ion polymer battery and an electric motor. The motor produces 110 hp (81 kW) and 285 Nm (210 lb.-ft.) of maximum torque. The range that it can cover is around 80-100 miles.

Kia’s newest concept will be fully unveiled at the show in Chicago on 12^th of February.

Source: Kia

January 29, 2015

Jeep Shows the Meaning of “X”-Factor with new Wrangler Special Series

Looking for the X factor, but you can’t really sing? Well, the 2015 Jeep Wrangler X is probably just for you for it is dedicated for those who always strive to be unique. The new and exclusive personalised version is a time-honoured synonym of off-road motoring. The Wrangler “X” is a special series version, equipped with exclusive style features and specific equipment packages. They serve to “multiply” model’s personality, thus targeting new customer groups.

As you can see the vehicle features bold and distinctive interpretations, which were designed to highlight the values of adventure, authenticity, freedom and passion. The model is based on Sahara version, but adds unique exterior styling with seven slot body-colour front grille fitted with black high-gloss inserts.

Other special characteristics of the Wrangler feature dome hood with dual air vents, huge 18″ Gloss Black wheels and Mopar design black filler door. And for those who prefer the open-top experience, Jeep has prepared the exclusive Freedom Top – a removable body-colour 3-piece hardtop.

Inside, the owner of this unique version of the Jeep will enjoy the black leather trimmed heated seats with sports fabric inserts and light slate grey accent stitching as well as polished ceramic white inserts on the passenger grab handle and air vent surrounds on the dashboard and console. The comfort for everyone inside is further strengthened via the automatic climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel with built-in controls, heated front seats, special Mopar mats and the 6.5″ touchscreen that includes navigation.

Four elegant liveries will adorn the model: Bright White, Black, Firecracker Red and Baja Yellow. Wrangler “X” series will be offered in two- or four-door version with two engine options. The first one is the 2.8 litre turbodiesel which produces 200 hp (147 kW) with 460 Nm (339 lb-ft) of torque and the 3.6 litre Pentastar V6 petrol engine rated at 284 hp (209 kW) and 347 Nm of torque (256 lb-ft). Both are coupled with five-speed automatic transmission.

Source: Jeep

January 29, 2015

Infiniti Q70S is Here!

2015 Infiniti Q70S is here and is part of the new premium saloon range. Infiniti Q70 range made its debut at the Paris Motor Show last October, showing its upgraded skin and ride comfort. The more chiselled look is due to the new front and rear bumper sections that now feature seductive shape and bring the design of the car closer to the Q50 family look. The headlights keep the distinctive Infiniti design but, for all models in the range they are full LED, like the rear lights.

The line-up is of course upgraded starts with a new Q70 2.2d model, which is driven by a four-cylinder diesel engine. This powertrain is developed as part of Infiniti’s cooperation with Daimler. It is coupled with a standard seven-speed automatic transmission that has available paddleshift. What is so special about this unit is that it emits only 129g/km of CO2, but at the same time it is capable of producing 170 hp (125 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque.

On the other hand, those who will go for the Q70 Premium 2.2d will receive standard full LED headlights, chromed accents on the front grille, a rear-view camera, front and rear parking sensors. They will also get Connectiviti+ navigation, 18-inch wheels and leather seats with ventilation at no cost. Next, the new ‘Sport’ trim is equipped with new front bumper, ugraded brakes and 20-inch wheels.

Some of the available features in the range include Infiniti’s Dynamic Safety Shield that adds intelligent cruise control, lane departure prevention and blind-spot intervention, Bose Premium Surround Sound with 16 speakers and Around-View Monitor with Moving Object Detection and Forest air-conditioning.

Premium Tech and Sport Tech models also come with the option of 3.7-litre V6 petrol power, while the flagship model is driven by the Infiniti Direct Response Hybrid powertrain. In fact, Q70 Hybrid offers unmatchable performance. It is capable of reaching the 100 km/h in just 5.3s.

Infiniti Q70	2.2d	3.5h	3.7
Configuration	In-line 4	V6	V6
Displacement	2143cc	3498cc	3696cc
Compression ratio	16.2:1	10.6 : 1	11 : 1
Bore x stroke	83x99mm	81.4×95.5mm	86.0 x 95.5mm
Power	170PS	364PS	320PS
Torque	400Nm (1600-2800rpm)	546Nm	360Nm (5200rpm)

Source: Infiniti

January 29, 2015

Lotus Exige S Automatic Faster Than the Manual Model?

Lotus Exige S Automatic is here and despite our previous concerns it will surely deliver pure and extreme driving. The convenience of an automatic has been specifically tailored to the sporty characteristics of the model. Lotus claims that via both automatic and paddle shift the car is capable of an even more focused driving experience. The control panel is integrated into the centre console of the cockpit and features four buttons: Park, Reverse, Neutral and Drive. The forged aluminium, manual-shift paddles are positioned behind the steering wheel cross-spokes.

In fact, the upshifts take only 240 milliseconds, while the downshifts are rapid and are accompanied by a throttle-blip when one drives in the Sport mode. In the same mode throttle response is sharpened and in combination with the Lotus Dynamic Performance Management (DPM) it increases the traction slip thresholds, which of course allows the person behind the wheel get even more control on the vehicle.

The same system also opens the engine exhaust bypass valve at mid-to-high engine speeds. Lotus has also ensured that there is an optional pack, which reduces additionally the intervention of the DPM. It is called Optional Race Pack and includes Race mode.

All of this is further strengthened by the 3.5-litre supercharged V6 engine, which produces the stunning 345 hp (258 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of optimum torque. If you wonder about the acceleration figures – they are detailed below. Just to mention, the Exige S Automatic reaches 100 km/h in only 3.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 162 mph (261 km/h). And believe it or not this is 0.1 seconds quicker than the manual Exige S!

The CO2 emissions are rated at 222g/km while the combined fuel consumption number stands at 29.4mpg. The automatic transmission is offered on both Exige S and Exige S Roadster models.

Performance figures:

Consumption and emissions:

0-60mph – 3.8 s
0-100kph – 3.9 s
0-100mph (0-160kph) – 9.2 s
Max speed – 162mph; 261kph
Power – 345 hp (258 kW)
Power to Weight – 292 hp/tonne (218 kW/tonne)
Torque – 295 lbft; 400 Nm
Kerb weight – 1182 kg

Urban – 20.9mpg (13.6 litres / 100km)
Extra Urban – 39.2mpg (7.2 litres / 100 km
Combined: (official combined) -29.4mpg (9.6 litres / 100 km)
CO2 – 222g/km (manual Exige S – 235 g/km)

Source: Lotus

January 29, 2015

Cool Animation Shows Why 2016 Nissan TITAN XD Has So Much Torque [VIDEO]

If you think that Nissan’s secret weapon at the North American International Auto Show was only the 2016 Nissan TITAN XD then you won’t be entirely right. The company actually premiered not only the full-size pickup, but also the new Cummins 5.0L V8 Turbo Diesel engine. Nissan has just released a short film in which it literally shows-off with the unique features of the engine. The video is a detailed animation, displaying what the unit consists of and how it actually works.

A Cummins M²™ Two-Stage Turbocharger, which is featured in the engine, is configured to work effortlessly at both low and high engine speeds. The series sequential turbocharging system uses two differently sized turbochargers and effectively delivers a small turbocharger for low air flow requirements and a large turbo for high air flow.

The small one offers the benefit of better transient response, because of low inertia. On the other hand, the large turbo maintains power at higher engine speeds. This also contributes to elimination of the turbo lag, meaning that it provides a continuous delivery of peak torque through the RPM range.

And if you wonder about the control of the air flow between the two turbochargers, well, it is possible due to the new M² system. It works by utilizing a patented rotary valve to open ports that perform the bypass or waste-gate functionality and provide exhaust after-treatment thermal management.

And if you ask me: this is the twin-turbo of the 21st century and I’ll definitely take one.

httpv://youtu.be/Mlg6fZcLrF8

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Nissan

January 29, 2015

Volkswagen Unveils 2015 Golf GTD Variant

The German automobile manufacturer Volkswagen has taken the wraps off the new Gran Turismo Diesel model which is another member added to its growing Golf family.

Power for the Golf wagon is provided by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine which delivers 184 HP (135 kW) at 3,500 rpm and 380 Nm of maximum torque (280 lb-ft) between 1,750 and 3,250 rpm. These figures help the car accelerate from standstill to 60 mph (0-100 km/h) in just 7.9 seconds. There are no specific details regarding the top speed but it could be lower than that of the GTD hatchback which reaches 143 mph (230 km/h). Combined fuel consumption is rated at 4.4 liters / 100 km (53.4 mpg US or 64 mpg UK).

Visually, 2015 Volkswagen Golf GTD has several distinctive components. Precisely, the car’s aggressive appearance is highlighted by its GTD front and rear bumpers, black roof nails, tinted bi-xenon headlights, honeycomb radiator grille and smoked taillights. The new Volkswagen Golf GTD is further characterized by a 15 mm lower suspension and chrome tips for the exhaust which come as standard. A finishing touch add the 17-inch Curitiba alloy wheels available in 18-inch Nogaro as an option as well.

On the inside, the Golf GTD has sports seats with “Clark” cloth upholstery, black headliner, stainless steel pedal caps, pillar trims and illuminated door sills. “Checkered Black” decorative inserts and panels also adorn the interior. Golf-ball shaped gear knob and a multi-function lather steering are part of the package too.

Orders for the model are already available in Germany, with a starting price of €31,975 ($36,124).

Source: Volkswagen

January 29, 2015

The all new Ford GT Looks and sounds amazing

2016 sees the 50^th Anniversary of Fords greatest racing victory, the first of four races in the 24 hours of Le Mans.

With that said Ford are set to introduce the all new Ford GT for the special year.

In the past F1 cars have used a V8 engine but not with the GT. Ford have decided to use a 600bhp, twin turbo charged V6 engine.

People seemed to lose interest in F1, last year, and it was highly down to cars being designed with V6 engines, they struggled to sound spectacular like other cars. We then have to ask ourselves is this one of Fords best ideas?

The GT has been a topic of conversation with car lovers everywhere and has even been showcased on Top Gear recently. The sneak look at the proto type gives an insight to the sound and the look of the vehicle.

An aerodynamic body hides a passenger cell crafted out of carbon fibre and a pair of aluminium sub frames keeps both weight and fuel economy in check.

With the seats integrated into the passenger cell, the driver cannot adjust these and must electronically adjust the steering wheel and pedals, something found in Fords competitor Ferrari.

A deployable rear spoiler and scissor mounted doors make the GT look like a very traditional super car but the vehicles fully modern instrument panel with configurable display, make it clear this is a very futuristic, digital kind of car.

It seems the number of European clients for the new GT have been underestimated by Ford. There are 20 times more car lovers interested to purchase than originally expected and this is even before the European price tag has been publicly announced.

A huge demand could mean we do not get to see the GT on the roads by 2016 and therefore should hope the speculation of 12 new performance cars from Ford are announced soon, including the new Ford Focus RS more information is available in this article.

Latest indications from Ford say the all new RS will have a turbocharged 2.3litre, four cylinder eco boost engine seen in the recently launched mustang. Dale Gillespie from JenningsFordDirect a UK based Ford specialist said “Used version of the sporty ford focus Zetec S, ST and RS have increased in demand since the announcement of the GT”.

All of these designs and speculations from Ford are building the hopes up of car enthusiasts around the globe, so we hope they can step up to the plate and deliver these vehicles for when expected.

January 29, 2015

Facelifted BMW M135i with Revised Front End

BMW has previously shared the specifics of the facelifted M135i but only now we know what to expect visually after several scan images of the car have been spotted around the web.

Just to refresh your memory, in terms of power, 2015 BMW M135i is fitted with a 3.0-liter 6-cylinder petrol engine that is now Euro 6 compliant. It is capable of delivering a power output of 326 HP (240 kW). Note that this is 6 HP (4 kW) more than before. The maximum torque is 450 Nm (332 lb-ft), while the estimated average fuel consumption is that of 8.0 l/100 km.

The rear-wheel drive variant accelerates from 0 to 60 mph (100km/h) in 5.1 seconds when it takes advantage of a 6-speed manual. When it is opted with the imrpoved 8-speed automatic transmission, the car can complete the 0-60 mph run in 4.9 seconds.

Judging from the photos, the new BMW M135i has the same Valencia Orange color as the vehicle which was seen in Germany some time ago. The profile seems to be unchanged but the thing that differentiates the vehicle from the other 1-Series models is the altered front bumper which features bigger air intakes with new chrome trim. The revised silhouette also has redesigned headlamps, L-shaped LED taillights and modified boot hatch. Lastly, there are silver mirror caps and a new rear diffusor as well. The latter arrives in black metallic paint and has a dual exhaust system.

Source: Bimmertoday

January 29, 2015

Magical Introduction of Fiat 500X with Dynamo [VIDEO]

Before the official launch of the new Fiat 500X, the automaker teamed up with the internationally well-known British magician Dynamo who spent three years to prepare an astonishing show revealing the crossover.

The incredible live performance took place at Copper Box Arena, situated in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford in front of 1,000 invited guests. Among the people who attended the event were many journalists, bloggers and celebrities from the fashion world, as well as personalities from the music and entertainment industry, like the singer MIA,Kasabian’s bassist Chris Edwards and the star TV Nancy Dell’Olio. Nevertheless, the real stars were the vehicle in question and the skillful magician.

Quoting Fiat, “Dynamo’s latest performance is a unique blend of theater, illusion and dance inspired choreography as the magician conjures up a mysterious energy (The power of X) live on stage.” This never-before seen interplay of technology and magic culminated when the man presented a 3-dimensional blueprint of the all-new Fiat 500X and then all of a sudden brings it to life leaving the audience dumbfounded and stunned.

Even though the London event marked the end of “The Power of X” tour, this is just the beginning of a new era for Fiat because the exclusiveness of its car offers a significant multidisciplinary which appeals to a large scope of customers. Introducing the new Fiat model in 74 European cities and bringing it to 602 premieres at Fiat dealerships across the continent, “The Power of X” joins up the art of Dynamo and the characteristics of the new 500X crossover.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sz2C7_nU1jw

Source: Fiat

January 29, 2015

McLaren 675LT with a Devilish 666 HP [VIDEO]

Set to make its premiere in Geneva, the newest McLaren product has already received its name and it is McLaren 675LT. The car inherits the spirit and ethos of its iconic predecessor “Longtail’ but will combine it with blistering aerodynamics, optimized performance as well as increased downforce and reduced weight.

This modern interpretation of the 1997 McLaren F1 GTR Longtail promises to be the “lightest, the quickest, and the purest version of the range.” The automaker has made it clear that the model will be equipped with a revised twin-turbo V8 3.8-liter engine which is capable of producing the jaw-dropping 666 HP (496 kW). In consequence, thanks to these figures, the new McLaren model is proclaimed to be the most powerful one in the Super Series.

Still, the extra oomph won’t be the only thing that defines the devilish character of the 675LT. It also promises to arrive with a reworked body which can be distinguished by the special longtail treatment which is a tribute to the legendary F1 GTR Long Tail. No other details have been released so far but we were presented with a teaser video as a compromise. Nevertheless, it is just as scarce as everything else really. Spinning wheels and classic music in the background can hardly calm down the beating hearts of the people who are expecting to see the final product.

McLaren 675LT will be shown along with the exciting 650S and the Asia-only 625C models during the 2015 Geneva Motor Show in March.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TwkFqbGTNHY&feature=youtu.be

Source: McLaren via Youtube

January 29, 2015

Category: Car Makes