The French brand Citroen has just released a new model of the C3 range, named 2012 Citroen C3 PS Vita. It is a racier version of the brand’s best-selling car and is equipped with running gear tuned for more hustle.
The 2012 Citroen C3 PS Vita made its first appearance in the beginning of the month at the 82d Geneva Motor Show. It was showcased under the name Citroen C3 Red Block. The new model in currently being launched in France, and has to offer even more athletic drive and stance.
The C3 PS Vita immediately stands out with its sportier running gear. The reason for this is that the suspension settings have been stiffened by about 50% and body roll reduced by nearly 25%. In addition, the power steering has been adjusted to the new suspension specifications for a more dynamic road feel. At the same time the body height has been lowered 25 mm. The consequence of all this is an improved on-road thrill.
The 2012 Citroen C3 PS Vita is offered with three engines, all mated to manual transmissions: VTi 120 petrol (CO2 emissions of 136 g/km); e-HDi 90 and e-HDi 110 diesels (CO2 emissions of 98 and 99 g/km respectively).
The body shell colors being offered are: Shark grey, Banquise white, Aluminium grey, Manitoba grey and Obsidien black. All color themes feature Obsidien black rearview mirror housings and door handles, along with black blades on the headlamps and a shorter radio antenna.
The car sits on 17-inch diamond-effect wheels with red centres, shod with 205/40 tyres.
2012 Citroen C3 PS Vita
How about the interior? When one goes inside, one immediately sees the fascinating dashboard insert and central console which are in gloss black. At the same time the pedal set, foot rests and window surrounds are in aluminium. Additional changes have been made with the steering wheel, which now is reduced by 20 mm. The goal is one – deliver even more driving pleasure.
In addition, the seats can be upholstered in special two-tone Fusion red and black leather.
The 2012 Citroen C3 PS Vita also comes with bespoke equipment, in which is included central armrest at the front, Connecting Box, front and rear mats and dark-tinted rear windows.
At last but not least, the model vehicle receives some additional equipment which will be strongly appreciated by younger passengers: the car comes with the latest PlayStation
console, which is PS Vita Wifi equipped and has a 4 GB memory card.
The prices for 2012 Citroen C3 PS Vita start at 17 900 Euro.
Mercedes-Benz is continuing its hybrid philosophy with the all new 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID model. In fact, this is the world’s most economical luxury-class vehicle with a fuel consumption of just 4.2 l of diesel/100 km, and CO2 emmissions of 109 g/km. At the same time, efficiency champions such as the SLK 250 CDI, S 250 CDI, ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC and SL 350 BlueEFFICIENCY are showing that luxury brand aims to tale a leading role in the continuous improvement of vehicles with internal combustion engines in all classes. What bindes all these environmentalfriendly vehciles is their impressive efficiency without compromises.
These premium automobiles from Mercedes-Benz, which are not only economical but also environmentaly compatible, has all the necessaryattributes of a true Mercedes: safety, comfort and serene driving enjoyment. Further to the highly efficient internal combustion engines, add the hybrid drive systems, which are currently rounding off the mix of intelligent, need-related solutions for environmentalfriendly vehicles. The new 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is setting new standards for luxury-class business cars. This diesel hybrid will be available in the European market as a Saloon and Estate in the end of the year. Later the E 400 HYBRID powered by an electric motor and a V6 petrol engine will be launched in the American, Japanese and Chinese market.
Furthermore the intelligent, modular hybrid concept has a major advantage: no modifications to the bodyshell are required. In addition to that the hybrid module can be used flexibly in other model series and there will be right-hand drive versions apart from the diesel and petrol models.
What has to be highlighted here is that the vehicle has all the necessary equipment and functions for a hybrid – starting from the ECO start/stop function right up to the purely electrically driveable hybrid. This means that this model is undoubdtedly on its way to the sustainable mobility of the future. Moreover, Mercedes-Benz is also aims to optimize its vehicles with the very latest internal combustion engines: by downsizing, charging, direct injection, low-friction technology and BlueTEC. In addition to that the vehicles themselves are undergoing targeted optimisation with respect to aerodynamics, lightweight construction and energy management (BlueEFFICIENCY).
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID not only delivers best-in-class luxury, but also combines it with outstanding fuel economy of the 4‑cylinder diesel engine over long distances. The reasons are several, but in short – it benefits of an efficient hybrid in city and stop & go traffic. Hence, it delivers impressive efficiency with no compromises. And not forgetting that thank to the compact hybrid concept there are no restrictions in terms of spaciousness, comfort and safety.
What is more important here is the technology used in the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID. Mercedes-Benz has combined the 2.2-litre four-cylinder diesel engine, which develops 150 kW (204 hp) with a powerful hybrid module. The latter has a 15 kW electric motor, positioned between the internal combustion engine and the 7-speed automatic transmission, and assists the diesel engine when the car is accelerating (boost effect). In alternator mode, it is used for the recuperation of braking energy, although it is also suitable for driving under electric power alone. In summary, it is based on the modular hybrid principle developed by Mercedes-Benz. And the figures a worth mentioning again: the fuel consumption of the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is 4.2 litres per 100 kilometres with CO2 emissions of 109 g/km.
Next, in combination with 7G-TRONIC, a wet start-up clutch and the lithium-ion battery, the intelligent modular hybrid system requires little installation space and weighs around 100 kg. Of course, the hybrid components have all the features of the extensive “7-stage safety concept”.
The brand also aims to deliver fuel efficiency and environmental “attitude” to some of its iconic models. Across all the model series Mercedes-Benz offers powerful yet economical petrol and diesel models. They feature turbocharging and direct injection for enhanced performance but lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. What is more here is that these vehicles are very suitable for markets with CO2-based vehicle taxation, or for company and fleet customers.
Characteristics of the efficiency champions in brief:
Mercedes-Benz SLK 250 CDI: torque at the level of a V8 muscle-car, the fuel consumption of a compact. The world’s most economical (4.9 l/100 km) and powerful (150 kW/500 Nm) diesel roadster.
Mercedes-Benz S 250 CDI: the “five litres per 100 km S-Class” with serene long-distance comfort.
Mercedes-Benz ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC: full-size SUV with full on and off-road performance, a consumption of around six litres per 100 km and CO2 emissions of 158 g /km.
Mercedes-Benz SL 350 BlueEFFICIENCY: consumes 29 percent less fuel than the preceding model, mainly thanks to a BlueDIRECT engine, intelligent lightweight construction (- 140 kg) and outstanding aerodynamics.
The new and long awaited 2013 Chevrolet Traverse Crossover is now offering greater style, refinement and safety. The vehicle will go in production later this year and will deliver confidence, comfort and capability.
First to be seen in the crossover is its new athletic exterior design, complemented by a more expressive front end. The latter features a new shape supported by a powerdome hood, a three-bar upper and two-bar lower grille design, new lamps, chrome accents around the grille and fog lamps, and sculpted front corners. They remind very much of the new 2013 Chevrolet Malibu.
Observed from the back, the rear carries redesigned lamps. In addition the license plate pocket is positioned in the new liftgate for a sportier look.
2013 Traverse is all about spaciousness and comfort. It offers flexible seating for up to eight adults, and more cargo-carrying capacity than any other vehicle in its segment. Of course, no less than high-quality materials are used in the interior. This results soft-touch surfaces on the instrument panel and front door uppers. In addition, what is also uniquely featured in the interior is the contrasting stitching, chrome and silver accents, and available blue ambient lighting that flows through the cabin.
A new center stack has the 6.5-inch color touch radio, which of course has the latest Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system. The latter system allows customers to easily integrate their smartphones for hands-free calling through the audio system and Bluetooth streaming of popular internet radio favorites Pandora and Stitcher. The center stack also has large and illuminated climate controls.
The new 2013 Chevrolet Traverse is going to be offered in three interior color choices, in cloth or leather: Ebony and Mojave, Light Titanium and Dark Titanium, and Ebony.
2013 Chevrolet Traverse Crossover Interior
What is more important here is that the three rows of seating now come as a standard on all models. In addition, it delivers flexible seating configurations, class-leading people and cargo-carrying capacity, and family-friendly entertainment.
In details, the second-row seat comes with a pair of captain’s chairs or a three-passenger bench. It include SmartSlide feature which enables ease of access to the third-row bench seat with one hand.
On the other hand, the third-row seat can comfortably accommodate three adult passengers.
This leads to the conclusion that Traverse’s wheelbase dimensions has to be remarkable for the segment: it has a long 118.9-inch (3,019 mm) wheelbase, with a wide 67.8-inch (1,721 mm) front track and 67.4-inch (1,712 mm) rear track.
2013 Chevrolet Traverse Crossover Three Row Interior Space
Moreover, the vehicle is not only comfortably spacious for the passengers, but is also significantly fuel efficient. This efficiency comes from the advanced 3.6L V-6 with fuel-saving direct injection technology and continuously variable valve timing. The innovative engine is mated with a six-speed automatic transmission with improved shift feel. As a consequence, this results in more confident acceleration when the driver needs additional power to enter the highway or pass another vehicle.
In particular, the engine develops 288 horsepower (212 kW) at 366 Nm (270 lb.-ft.) of torque thank to it dual exhaust (281 hp/210 kW and 266 lb.-ft./361 Nm with single exhaust).
The crossover offers as well intelligent all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, which provides increased traction on slippery roads by actively managing the torque distribution between the front and rear axles.
2013 Chevrolet Traverse Crossover
As a matter of fact, 2013 Chevy Traverse is considered to be one of the safest vehicles in the world. The reasons for this are several. First of all, the model was the first one ever to include a front center airbag. The latter was engineered to provide additional restraint to drivers and front passengers in far-side impact crashes, where the affected occupant is on the opposite, non-struck side of the vehicle. Secondly, the vehicle is also equipped with Available Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert systems, which uses radar to watch spots the driver may not see. Then it provides visible and audible warnings to help prevent collisions. Thirdly, the Standard head curtain side air bags with rollover protection serves for outboard occupants in all seating rows. Next comes the StabiliTrak electronic stability control with rollover mitigation technology, which is standard on all models and incorporates full-function traction control. In addition, the Standard rearview camera system is designed to provide the driver with added capability to view what is in the rearward path of the vehicle. The Standard four-wheel-disc brake system with ABS include smooth, quiet operation, longer pad life and more resistance to brake pulsation. Safety belt pretensioners reduce forward movement during a collision. Next, come the Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children, which is a child seat attachment system included in outboard second-row seating positions. The Tire pressure monitoring system is standard on all models. In addition to all this, the Strong body structure in cases of accident, can absorb crash energy and provide a protective “safety cage” around occupants. At last, the Standard hill start assist brakes help reduce the tendency of a vehicle to roll forward or backward on a hill after the brake pedal is released by momentarily retaining pressure on the brake discs.
What is left to be mentioned about the all new Traverse is its innovative OnStar system, which goes as a standard on all models. To be more precise it uses GPS and cellular phone technology to automatically call for help in the event of a crash.
2013 Chevrolet Traverse Crossover is offered in LS, LT and LTZ models with two LT packages: 1LT and 2LT. It comes in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations.
2013 Chevrolet Traverse Crossover Specifications:
Overview
Model:
Chevrolet Traverse
Body style / driveline:
crossover-utility vehicle / front-engine; front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive
Construction:
body-frame integral
EPA vehicle class:
sport utility vehicle
Manufacturing location:
Lansing Delta Township Assembly, Lansing, Mich.
Key competitors:
Honda Pilot; Ford Explorer
Engine
Type:
3.6L V-6 DI VVT
Displacement (cu in / cc):
217 / 3564
Bore & stroke (in / mm):
3.70 x 3.37 / 94 x 85.6
Block material:
cast aluminum
Cylinder head material:
cast aluminum
Valvetrain:
DOHC; four valves per cylinder; continuously variable valve timing
Fuel delivery:
direct, high-pressure fuel injection
Compression ratio:
11.3:1
Horsepower (hp / kW):
281 / 210 @ 6300 (single exhaust)*
288 / 215 @ 6300 (dual exhaust)*
Torque (lb-ft / Nm):
266 / 361 @ 3400 (single exhaust)*
270 / 366 @ 3400 (dual exhaust)*
Recommended fuel:
regular unleaded
Max. engine speed (rpm):
6700
Emissions controls:
dual close-coupled converters; two pre- and two post-oxygen sensors
Ford are contemplating a hardcore Explorer for the 2013 range – the Sport. Never before have the likes of an Explorer had a performance model but that’s about to change. Supposedly, Ford are planning to dominate the “gasoline-engine-powered, high performance SUV” category by focusing on fuel economy – 16 mpg in an urban environment and 22 mpg on the highway.
Mind you, those figures come from a twin-turbocharged EcoBoost® V6 engine that sends “at least” 350 bhp trough a paddle-shifting six-speed SelectShift Automatic box and an all-wheel-drive system. Recognizing it as a “Sport” version can also be done by looking at the exterior or the interior. And you have a fragile spine, you’ll notice that the suspension has been firmed up as well. Also, the brakes are bigger.
Roof rails painted in black, black head- and taillight motives, black wing mirror caps and 20-inch wheels all give away the SUV as a Sport member. The front lower fascia provides an additional opening for the engine to breathe. Various “EcoBoost” and “Sport” badges also suggest that this is not your run of the mill Explorer.
The inside offers some black leather that may or may not be paired with contrasting Sienna inserts. An exclusive design for the instruments, Sport-logo floor mats and illuminated scuff plates complete the overall Sport character.
Ford Explorer Sport (2013)
As for equipment, the standard stuff is as follows:
4WD with Terrain Management System
Dual-Zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control
10-way power driver’s seat with power recline and lumbar
Six-way power passenger seat with recline and lumbar
First-row heated seats
First-row heated seats
Compass and exterior temperature display
Rear view camera
SYNC® with MyFord Touch® driver connect technology
Sony® Premium Audio System with HD Radio™ and 12 speakers
Whereas, as options these are listed:
Active park assist
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with cross-traffic alert
Nissan GT-Rs have always been a favorite for ambitious tuners. What we see here can only support that theory. It’s a collaboration project between two companies – The American based PUR Wheels company and the Indonesian Premier Autowerkz… apparently. The whole project is rather obscure and not much information is available.
On what we can focus however, are those 3 piece “4OUR Depth“ PUR wheels they have fitted. Beautifully made 5 double spokes (that’s one way of putting it). It’s as if fragile twigs support the weight of the whole Nissan. The wheel arches are nicely filled in and the gold calipers certainly make a statement – “I like it a bit flashy”. Indeed, if I were to drive around in a car that has such a conspicuous racing strip across the hood, roof and trunk, one must assume that that I like flashy things, no doubt.
Other than that we can see some fascia work being done at the front and back. Also these exhaust tips do not look very stock. We’ll be on the lookout for more information about this. Otherwise we can play the guessing game all day long.
Toyota has announced their line-up for the new season. The Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship begins this weekend and the manufacturer will take place in it with independent racers Frank Wrathall, Tony Hughes and Adam Morgan.
The new race car is based on the latest update of the British-built road-going Avensis, introduced late last year. Like its showroom sister, the race car is produced at Toyota’s Burnaston factory in Derbyshire, making it a very British contender in the country’s most popular national racing championship.
The exterior is slightly changed by restyling the front, a fresh look at engine installation and cooling, and has also helped them improve chassis stiffness.
Dynojet’s Wrathall is hoping to build on the dramatic late-season form he showed in 2011 and believes the off-season works carried out in the team’s Lancashire workshops will make all the difference.
“The developments we have made will allow us to move on to the next level,” said the 25-year-old from Garstang, last season’s Rookie of the Year.”, he said.
“I hope it will mean that we can be regularly fighting for the podium. That is my aim, but of course the opposition will be strong and everyone else will be out to do the same thing.”, Mr. Wrathall added.
2012 Toyota BTCC Race Cars
Frank scored four podium results in 2011, the best of them a second, and three Independents Trophy wins on his way to championship 12th. His sterling efforts have been recognised by the British Racing Drivers’ Club, which has awarded him SuperStar status for the coming year.
The newest recruit to the Toyota ranks is 23-year-old Adam Morgan, who won his place on the BTCC grid thanks to his victory in the Ginetta Supercup – the richest prize in British motorsport, worth in excess of £200 000.
Both the Speedworks Toyotas are powered by the 2-litre ‘spec’ engine developed by BTCC organiser TOCA.
This year’s Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship starts and finishes at the Brands Hatch circuit in Kent, and between those 1 April and 21 October events will visit the Donington Park, Thruxton, Oulton Park, Croft, Snetterton, Knockhill, Rockingham and Silverstone circuits on its round-Britain tour. All 30 races will be screened live, with a minimum of six hours on ITV4 and ITV4 HD from each meeting, simultaneously broadcast on the itv.com website.
Alfa Romeo UK has announced the full specs and price list for the 2012 Giulietta TCT.
The Alfa Giulietta is a 5-door hatchback offering cheap and stylish ride. The car is the safest car in its class. It also features award winning MultiAir engine technology, five star Euro-NCAP safety ratings, Alfa Romeo’s unique D.N.A system, and now, in 2012, the technologically advanced ALFA TCT semi-automatic transmission becomes available in the Giulietta range. 2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT starts at £21 855 OTR.
There are two trim levels – Lusso or Veloce, and two engines: 1.4 TB MultiAir 170HP and 2.0 JTDM-2 170HP diesel.
The TCT transmission offers sporty driving pleasure and reduces the fuel consumption a lot. The transmission works in either all-automatic or sequential mode, as required by the driver. The user can manually manage the up and down position of the accurate, ergonomic shifter, with which steering wheel shift paddles may be combined. In addition, the driver can customise the car’s dynamics using the Alfa D.N.A. driving selector to enhance its features of comfort, performance, safety and efficiency.
The 1.4 liter TB MultiAir engine has 170HP enabling the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.7 seconds and a top speed of 184 km/h (135 mph). The fuel consumption is great – 54.3 mpg UK with 121 g/km CO2.
The 2.0 liter JTDM-2 diesel with 170HP is slightly slower – 7.9 seconds to 100 km/h, but the fuel consumption is better – 62.8 mpg UK with 119 g/km CO2.
Alfa TCT uses dry clutches allowing, in addition to other advantages, natural integration with Start&Stop, a function which is not always available with traditional automatic transmissions, and which guarantees a further benefit in terms of fuel consumption, particularly around town.
Lastly, a Wet automatic transmission requires approximately 4.8 litres more gearbox oil than a Dry version, again for reasons of clutch cooling. In this way, weight is added and losses are incurred due to an increase in splashing caused by the gears. When all these effects are combined, a Dry transmission, like the Alfa TCT, is found to be approximately 6% more efficient than the corresponding Wet one in terms of consumption.
Check out the full pricing and specifications below.
2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT
PRICING:
Basic Price
VAT
Retail Price
OTR Charges
Total OTR
BIK
1.4 TB MultiAir 170 bhp
ALFA TCT Lusso
£17,707.89
£3,541.58
£21,249.47
£605.53
£21,855.00
15%
1.4 TB MultiAir 170 bhp
ALFA TCT Veloce
£18,791.23
£3,758.25
£22,549.47
£605.53
£23,155.00
15%
2.0 JTDM-2 170 bhp
ALFA TCT Lusso
£19,120.39
£3,824.08
£22,944.47
£605.53
£23,550.00
17%
2.0 JTDM-2 170 bhp
ALFA TCT Veloce
£20,162.06
£4,032.41
£24,194.47
£605.53
£24,800.00
17%
TECHNICAL DATA:
1.4 TB MultiAir 170 bhp ALFA TCT
2.0 JTDM-2170 bhp
ALFA TCT
DIMENSIONS
Seats
5
5
Doors
5
5
Length/width (mm)
4350/1798
4350/1798
Height (mm)
1465
1465
Wheelbase (mm)
2634
2634
Front/rear track (mm)
1554/1554
1554/1554
Boot capacity (dm3)
350
350
Drag
0.31
0.31
ENGINE
Petrol
Diesel
No. of cylinders, arrangement
4 in line
4 in line
Bore x stroke (mm)
72 x 84
83 x 90.4
Displacement (cm3)
1368
1956
Compression ratio
9.8:1
16.5:1
Max power output: bhp (kW-EC) at rpm
170 (125) 5500
170 (125) 4000
Peak torque: Nm (kgm-EC) at rpm (NATURAL mode)
230 (23.4) 2250
320 (32.5) 1500
Peak torque: Nm (kgm-EC) at rpm (DYNAMIC mode)
250 (25.4) 2500
350 (35.6) 1750
Timing
Single overhead camshaft, 16 valves, toothed belt with hydraulic tappets and MultiAir direct lift/timing adjustment system
Dual overhead camshafts,
16 valves, toothed belt with hydraulic tappets
Supply
Electronic multipoint injection, turbocharger
with intercooler
MultiJet direct injection
at 1,600 bar, variable geometry
turbocharger with intercooler
Stop&Start system for automatic engine stopping/starting for short stops, to optimise consumption and emissions of CO2
Standard
Standard
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (12V)
Battery: capacity (Ah) / Generator (A)
63 / 450
72 / 600
TRANSMISSION
Drive
Front
Front
Gearbox
Automatic/sequential with dry dual clutch
Automatic/sequential with dry dual clutch
First
1:4.154
1:4.154
Second
1:2.269
1:2.118
Third
1:1.435
1:1.361
Fourth
1:0.978
1:0.978
Fifth
1:0.754
1:0.756
Sixth
1:0.622
1:0.622
Reverse
1:4.000
1:4.000
Final drive torque
1:4.118
1:3.579
WHEELS
Standard tyre size
205/55 R16
205/55 R16
Standard rim size
7J x 16
7J x 16
STEERING
Steering system
Rack and pinion with electro-mechanical power steering (Dual Pinion)
Rack and pinion with electro-mechanical power steering (Dual Pinion)
Turning circle (m)
10.9
10.9
SUSPENSION
Front
MacPherson independent with anti-roll bar
Rear
Multilink system
BRAKES – (DISCS)
Front (mm)
305
305
Rear (mm)
264
264
WEIGHTS –TANK CAPACITY
Fuel tank capacity (litres)
60
60
Kerb weight DIN (kg)
1305
1335
Max towable weight – Non-braked (kg)
500
500
Max towable weight – Braked (kg)
1300
1300
PERFORMANCE
Top speed mph (kh/h)
135 (218)
135 (218)
Acceleration 0-62 mph (s)
7.7
7.9
Pick-up in top gear from 50 to 75 mph (s)
6.5
6.4
FUEL CONSUMPTION – EMISSIONS (in accordance with 1999/100EC directive)
The German based auto-design and tuning company named Rigerhas just launched a new project. The work of the professionals was on an Opel Corsa, which now, after the modification, looks outstanding!
To be more precise 2012 Rieger Opel Corsa D has received a new bodykit. It gives the vehicle the following equipment: spoiler lip, spoiler splitter, side skirts and a rear skirt extension. What is specific here is that all parts are produced in ABS plastic. The spoiler splitter, the side skirts and the rear skirt extensions are also available in ABS / Carbon-Look.
The Rieger Tuning Company, which has 25 year old history, was founded by Tony Riegerand. However, now the team includes more than 40 people, passionately working on delivering a better look and performance for cars. The company’s main focus is on production of body accessories and aerodynamic parts.
The latest ground braking innovation from Honda is the Solar Hydrogen Station on Grounds of Saitama Prefectural Office. This initiative is part of the Electric Vehicle Testing Program for Honda’s next-generation personal mobility products.
Furthermore, Honda also equipped the HondaFCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle with an outlet to function as a 9kW power source. How it works: the FCX Clarity uses a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen to create power with zero CO2 emissions. This new outlet will help the vehicle to serve as a zero-emission mobile electric generator.
In particular, this is the first installation in Japan which produces stores and dispenses hydrogen with ZERO CO2 emissions.
A uniquely developed high pressure water electrolysis system by Honda produces hydrogen. It has no mechanical compressor, and in addition operates silently and with high energy efficiency. Utilizing Solar and grid power, the system is capable of producing 1.5kg of hydrogen within 24hours, which enables an FCX Clarity to run approximately 150km (90miles).
The goal of the brand is to develop in the future a system which offers clean energy sources for the home in the future, to help replace fossil fuels, reduce emissions and combat climate change.
Honda FCX Clarity uses the new Solar Hydrogen Station in SaitamaHonda FCX Clarity uses at new Solar Hydrogen Station in Saitama
Skoda brand is releasing limited-edition version of its Yeti compact SUV, whihch is named 2012 Skoda Yeti Urban Limited Edition. The model is based on the already highly popular SE trim. However, it features some worthy equipment. The Yeti model achieved great success after its launch in 2009 and won in fact 12 independent products awards. It has overtaken the public by its high-quality on-road performance, family orientated practicality and rugged styling. The new Yeti Urban LE is restricted to just 750 cars, which will expand that appeal to younger and more style-conscious customers.
What is more in that particular model is that in it are featured some new and exclusive technologies. For instance, DAB digital radio comes now as standard. In addition, Yeti Urban includes Amundsen+ satellite navigation, Bluetooth connectivity and a multi-function steering wheel to control the audio system and telephone.
2012 Skoda Yeti Urban Limited Edition
Fascinating design features are also included: 17-inch black-and-chrome ‘Matterhorn‘ alloys, wheel arch extensions, chrome side strips, silver door mirror caps, silver roof rails and stylish eye-catching roof stripes. For the interior customers can choose between red or black sports seats and sunset glass in the rear.
Furthermore, the Yeti Urban is available in two-wheel-drive with manual transmission only, and comes with a choice of two engines. The first one is the petrol engine 1.2-litre TSI 105PS (77 kW), which offers fuel economy of 44.1mpg (combined) and CO2 emissions of 149g/km. Of course, there is a diesel version as well: the popular 2.0-litre TDI CR 110PS (81 kW) DPF, which offers figures of 52.3mpg (combined) and CO2 emissions of 140g/km.
The exterior body paint of the model is offered in several different colors: Black Magic pearl effect, Candy White, Brilliant Silver metallic and Steel Grey metallic.
Skoda retailers have a number of accessories worthy of mention: stainless steel pedals, sports exhaust trim, and Nextbase Click 9 Lite Duo portable DVD player with twin 9-inch screens.
Yeti Urban standard features are: 17-inch black-and-chrome Matterhorn alloy wheels; Amundsen+ satellite navigation; Bluetooth GSM II telephone preparation; DAB Digital radio; Chrome exterior side moulding strips; Decorative interior insert; Silver door mirror covers; Multi-function steering wheel for radio and telephone; Roof stripes; Silver roof rails; Sports seats – red or black; Sunset glass; Wheel arch extensions; Metallic paint; Acoustic rear parking sensors; Cruise control; Dual-Zone air conditioning; Maxi-dot trip computer; Fog lights; Front centre armrest with storage compartment.
2012 Skoda Yeti Urban Limited Edition will go on sale from the beginning of April this year with a starting price of £16 900 for the petrol model and £18 330 for the diesel.
Jeep Wrangler Apache Concept is extremely rough off-road vehicle. It is powered by a new Mopar 6.4 liter HEMI V8.
The engine delivers 470HP (346 kW) and 637Nm (470 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is mated to a Chrysler Group’s W5A580 5-speed automatic transmission. However, a 6-speed manual gearbox will be also available.
Other highlights include Mopar Pro 60 5.13 front and rear axles, a 4.5” Stage 3 long arm lift kit and off-road bead-lock wheels. There are also high-clearance flat fenders, front and rear half-door kits, rock rails and a Stinger front bumper.
A Warn 9.5ti XP winch, a locking center console box, Katzkin leather seats, and a Mopar branded interior complete the package.
The Mopar Wrangler V8 conversion kit will be available this summer.
Here’s a video of a Ford GT setting up a record on the Texas Mile Event at Chase Field Industrial Complex in south Texas: 257.7 mph – full 4.6 mph faster than the previous champion.
As you might have guessed, this is no ordinary Ford GT. It’s a Hennessey job this. Owned by Mark Heidaker, driven by Sean Kennedy this overhauled beast wrote some history. But before that, some professional help was needed. That’s when Hennessey Performance glued 34 psi Precision Turbochargers to the 5.4 liter Ford engine. The engine and power management as well as the data acquisition system were all installed and tuned by MoTeC people. Add some high-octane racing gasoline and you’ve got yourself a record breaking formula.
“I think I can do better in the lower gears next time and we can run an even better speed.” said Kennedy – ambitious. So, next stop: the Texas Mile Event on October the 26th 2012. Goal: 260 mph.
The French brand Citroen has just released a new model of the C3 range, named 2012 Citroen C3 PS Vita. It is a racier version of the brand’s best-selling car and is equipped with running gear tuned for more hustle.
Toyota has announced their line-up for the new season. The Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship begins this weekend and the manufacturer will take place in it with independent racers Frank Wrathall, Tony Hughes and Adam Morgan.
Alfa Romeo UK has announced the full specs and price list for the 2012 Giulietta TCT.
Jeep Wrangler Apache Concept is extremely rough off-road vehicle. It is powered by a new Mopar 6.4 liter HEMI V8.
Here’s a video of a