Car Makes – Page 831 – Automobiles Review

Hamann BMW M5 at Geneva

Apart from the Hawk SLS AMG Roadster, Hamann have a BMW M5 ready for us at the Geneva Motor Show. That means more style, more dynamics and more fun in a package of quality and exclusiveness.

Hannman focused on expressing the M5 posture. A wide posture in this case – 25 mm over the standard front wings and 30 mm more at the back. Combine that with a lower center of gravity thanks to special springs provided, and you get a fully blown, wide, mean, lean sports saloon that can put to shame even touring cars. An additional down force comes from the custom front and rear aprons, side skirts and roof and trunk spoilers. So there wont be a need for grip we presume

But just to be sure, Hamann have provided some sticky and wide (325/25 ZR 21 at the back just to get an idea of how wide) Continental Sport Contact 5P tires that go on the 9.5Jx21-inch front and 12.0Jx21-inch rear wheels. And the wheels themselves have a sporting pedigree, being all light and “anodized”, fitted with titanium bolts.

Hamann are still working on the power issues. With the addition of a new sports muffler and some crafty engine-management, the M5‘s V8 is expected to deliver 120 PS and 220 Nm of torque more than it normally does.

For the interior, the company has gone the extra mile. The cabin has the feel of a VIP lounge crossed with motorsport accents. Leather wraps around the seats, the wheel and the center console. Aluminum pedals peak at you from the foot well. Alcantra materials are also available as an option for the picky customers.

Source: Hamann

March 6, 2012

2012 Brabus Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Bullit Coupe 800

The exceptional Brabus Bullit Coupe 800 is a powerful and ultrafast vehicle based on the two-door Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG model. It will make its’ first appearance at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, where the public will have the opportunity to take a close look at it. Instead of the 6.3-liter V8 engine, which powers the production car, a twelve-cylinder engine in BRABUS 800 V12 Biturbo specification dwells beneath the matte-black exterior. It delivers the breathtaking 800 hp (788 bhp) / 588 kW and has a peak torque of 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft). This makes possible for the 2012 Brabus Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Bullit Coupe 800 to accelerate in 3.7 seconds to 100 km/h (62 mph), and in 23.8 seconds from 0 – 300 km/h (186 mph). The top speed is 370 km/h (230 mph). The supercar is also equipped with 20-inch BRABUS Monoblock R wheels, a sport suspension with customer-selectable ride height and damper rates, a high-performance brake system and exclusive cockpit design.

Numerous modifications to the reinforced C-Class body of the Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG were necessary to implant the turbocharged V12 into the engine bay. The BRABUS 800 V12 Biturbo engine is derived directly from the BRABUS E V12 one of ten. For this purpose an up-to-date Mercedes S 600 engine Motor is completely reengineered in the company engine building shop. The three-valve engine is increased from 5.5 to 6.3 liters (336 to 384 cu. in.) with the help of a special crankshaft with longer stroke, larger, forged pistons and an increase in cylinder bore. Intake and outlet ports of both cylinder heads are optimized for mixture flow, and fitted with sports camshafts. The increase of the horsepower was achieved thank to the newly configured exhaust side. In addition, the BRABUS 800 Biturbo system includes two special exhaust manifolds with integrated high-performance turbochargers, and four water-to-air intercoolers. Furthermore, especially for this version was created the stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with free-flow metal catalysts and driver-controlled butterfly valve. The end result is that the engine now produces 800 PS (788 bhp) / 588 kW at 5,500 rpm and has a peak torque of 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft), which of course is electronically limited in the car to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft). In the car is also mounted a seven-speed automatic transmission, which is shifted either automatically or manually via shift paddles on the steering wheel. Therefore, it is no surprise that the acceleration time of the car from 0-100 km/h (62 mph) is just in 3.7 seconds. The top speed is more than 370 km/h (230 mph).

2012 Brabus Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Bullit Coupe 800

The extraordinary looks of the BRABUS BULLIT Coupe 800 is accompanied by the new BRABUS Monoblock R wheels. Their design includes two times five double spokes arranged on two different plains. While the posterior plain has a titanium paint finish, the anterior surfaces are polished and coated with a smoke-colored clear lacquer, which lends the wheel a highly individual character. They come in sizes of 8.5Jx20 in front and 9.5Jx20. In addition, the high-performance tires are in sizes 235/30 ZR 20 and 275/25 ZR 20 and are supplied Pirelli.

Furthermore, the BRABUS high-performance brake system comprises of vented and grooved steel brake discs that measure 380 x 37 millimeters (15.0 x 1.45 in.) and 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers in the front. They are combined with vented and grooved steel discs (360 x 28 millimeters (14.2 x 1.1 in.)) and six-piston fixed aluminum calipers on the rear axle.

The interior in the cockpit of the Brabus Bullit Coupe 800 is sporty and exquisite. The upholstery is a combination of black leather and Alcantara, which of course matches the outer skin. Red contrasting seams add discrete sporty highlights. The final look is made by the genuine carbon-fiber components on the dashboard, center console and door trim. The steering wheel as well as aluminum pedals and shifter also add to the sporty look of the car.

Technical Data:

Body:

2-door coupe based on the Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupe; steel unibody welded to floorpan;

BRABUS BULLIT Coupe 800 aerodynamic-enhancement kit for reduced lift on front and rear axle and reduced drag, consists of:

front spoiler, air routers for the lateral air inlets and outlets, air vents in the front fenders, rear wing and rear diffuser;
BRABUS hood with integrated ram-air intake system.

Dimensions:

Length	4,707 mm (185.3 in.)
Width	1,795 mm (70.7 in.)
Height	1,361 mm (53.6 in.)
Curb weight	1,820 kg (4,012 lbs.)
Gross vehicle weight	2,160 kg (4,762 lbs.)
Tank capacity/reserve	66 l / 14.0 l (17.4 / 3.7 gal.)

Engine:

BRABUS 800 V12 Biturbo high-capacity engine based on Mercedes 600;

BRABUS 800 V12 Biturbo engine conversion consisting of:

displacement increase to 6.3 liters (384 cu. in.) by means of a special crankshaft with longer stroke, larger cylinder bore and corresponding larger pistons;
mixture-flow-optimized intake and outlet ports of both cylinder heads, including installation of high-performance camshafts;
BRABUS 800 V12 Biturbo system with two high-performance turbochargers with optimized exhaust manifolds and integrated turbine housings;
more efficient intercooling system with four water-to-air intercoolers;
ram-air intake integrated into hood;
BRABUS stainless-steel twin exhaust system with free-flow metal catalysts and butterfly valve;
newly programmed mapping for engine and on-board diagnostics.

V12-cylinder three-valve alloy engine with two turbochargers:

Displacement	6.233 cc (380.4 cu. in)
Compression ratio	9.0 : 1
Rated power output	800 hp (788 bhp) / 588 kW at 5,500 rpm
Peak torque	1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft) from 2,100 rpm (electronically limited to 1,100 Nm / 811 lb- ft)
max. CO2 emissions	372 g/km (595 g/mile)
Fuel type:	Super plus (98 ROZ)
Motor oil:	MOTUL

Power Transfer:

Rear-wheel drive with limited-slip differential and ESP; Reinforced seven-speed quick-shift automatic gearbox

Gear ratios:

1st gear	4.38
2nd gear	2.86
3rd gear	1.92
4th gear	1.37
5th gear	1.00
6th gear	0.82
7th gear	0.73
1st reverse gear	3.42
2nd reverse gear	2.2

Suspension:

independent front and rear suspension with height-adjustable BRABUS coilover sport suspension developed in cooperation with BILSTEIN;|

Front axle:

three-link suspension, anti-dive geometry, Height-adjustable BRABUS struts with gas-pressure shocks with 10-way adjustable bound and rebound, coil springs, BRABUS sport sway bar;

Rear axle:

multi-link suspension, anti-dive and anti-squat geometry. Height-adjustable BRABUS struts with gas-pressure shocks with 10-way adjustable bound and rebound, coil springs, BRABUS sport sway bar;

Wheels:

one-piece BRABUS Monoblock R alloy wheels with Continental, Pirelli or YOKOHAMA high-performance tires.
Front: 8.5J x 20 H2 with 235/30 ZR 20
Rear: 9.5J x 20 H2 with 275/25 ZR 20

Brake System:

dual circuit brake system with Brake Assist and BRABUS high-performance brake system:

Front: BRABUS 12-piston fixed aluminum calipers with vented and grooved steel discs measuring 380 x 37 mm (15.0 x 1.45 in.)
Rear: BRABUS six-piston fixed aluminum calipers with vented and grooved steel discs measuring 360 x 28 mm (14.2 x 1.1 in.)

Performance

0 – 100 km/h (62 mph)	3.7 sec.
0 – 200 km/h (124 mph)	9.8 sec.
0 – 300 km/h (186 mph)	23.8 sec.
Top speed	more than 370 km/h / 230 mph

Fuel Economy

Max. city	23.4 l / 100 km (10.0 mpg)
Max. highway	10.4 l / 100 km (22.6 mpg)
Max. combined	15.1 l / 100 km (15.6 mpg)

2012 Brabus Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Bullit Coupe 800 has an MSRP starting at EUR 378 000.

Source: Brabus

March 5, 2012

2012 Brabus Smart ForTwo Ultimate 120 Cabrio

This limited-edition city sports car is based on the latest evolution of the Smart Fortwo Cabrio and is a successor of the limited-edition models Ultimate 101, Ultimate 112, Ultimate R and Ultimate Style. It carries the name Brabus Ultimate 120, which indicates that this two seater cabrio is a supercar with 120 hp (118 bhp) / 88.3 kW. Moreover, it has a top speed of 170 km/h (112 mph), which will be built in a small-series production run limited to just 120 consecutively numbered cars. The exclusive examples are in different color according to customers specifications and also include WIDESTAR wide-body version with forged BRABUS Monoblock F 18-inch wheels and an all-leather interior. At the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, Brabus will showcase an intense metallic red ULTIMATE 120. It immediately catches the eye with its muscular BRABUS WIDESTAR body kit with front spoiler, side sills and BRABUS WIDESTAR fender flares front and back. In addition, the large wheel wells offers space for a tire/wheel combination that is highly unusual in this vehicle class and design: the new BRABUS Monoblock F “Platinum Edition” forged wheels are mounted on the front axle in size 7Jx18 with size 205/35 R 18 high-performance tires. Size 8.5Jx18 wheels with size 235/30 R 18 tires in the rear provide plenty of grip for transferring the power of 120 horses to the asphalt with no slip. Further transformations are delivered by the height-adjustable BRABUS coilover suspension. It has been custom-calibrated to the ultra-low-profile tires and the wider track. Additionally, it combines direct and safe handling with great ride comfort. And the excellent stopping power and optimum durability is provided by the BRABUS high-performance brake system with cross-drilled discs and four-piston fixed calipers painted in body color on the front axle. The engine is a powerful BRABUS three-cylinder turbocharged one. As I already mentioned, it develops maximum power output of 120 hp (118 bhp) / 88.3 kW at 6,000 rpm with peak torque of 160 Nm (118 lb-ft), available between 2,250 and 3,750 rpm.

The gears in the 2012 Brabus Smart ForTwo Ultimate 120 Cabrio are shifted either automatically or manually – with shift paddles on the ergonomically shaped BRABUS steering wheel that has a diameter of just 34 centimeters (13.4 inches). The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 8.9 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 170 km/h (106 mph). And to make the driving experience even more enjoyable, the performance is accompanied acoustically by the BRABUS stainless-steel sport exhaust system with two chrome-plated tailpipes.

Furthermore, the tuned vehicle includes a spectacular interior: it is entirely wrapped in especially soft and breathable black BRABUS Mastik leather with red contrasting seams which match the exterior. For the perfect comfort, it is equipped with Recaro Sportster seats, which are also wrapped in the finest BRABUS leather and their seat shells are painted in the same color of the exterior. A great attention is put on the details too, some of which were painted in the body color: the speedometer, the tach and clock including the instrument bezels, dashboard molding, turn signal stalks and door handles. In addition, BRABUS stainless-steel pedals as well as an aluminum shifter and emergency-brake lever create pure balance in the interior.

The MSRP for a 2012 Brabus Smart ForTwo Ultimate 120 Cabrio starts at EUR 45 900.

Source: BRABUS

March 5, 2012

Unica Lamborghini Teaser

Here’s a video from Lamborghini of two quite brisk headlights. It’s actually a teaser video from the Bologna company regarding the upcoming reveal of… something. Most likely, it’ll be called the the Lamborghini Unica. But, there’s a lot speculation going around. Some say it will be the Aventador J Speedster – a Spyder version/concept of the Aventador. Recently some photos have also been circulating the web showing a completely topless Aventador rendering.

In any case, if the the Unica/J Speedster has anything to do with the current Aventador LP 700-4, we should be expecting at the very least a V12, 6.5 liter engine developing 700 units of horsepower and nearly 700 Nm of torque. Hope you like windy weather.

A premiere at the Geneva Motor Show tomorrow will most likely substitute speculation with awe (we hope so). Obviously you can also follow the events on Twitter.

On a side note, Unica roughly translets from Italian into “the one and only” or ‘unique’ if you will.

httpv://youtu.be/LgRfGVDDswU

Source: Lamborghini via YouTube

March 5, 2012

2013 Chevrolet Silverado HD Bi-Fuel Pickup

General Motors Corporation and Chevrolet have just unveiled the bi-fuel 2013 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500 HD extended cab pickup trucks. The vehicles include a compressed natural gas (CNG) capable Vortec 6.0L V8 engine that seamlessly transitions between CNG and gasoline fuel systems. When combined, the trucks offer a range of more than 650 miles.

The Silverado and Sierra will be on the marked in standard and long box, with either two- or four-wheel drive. This is a great step undertaken by the brands because in this way they are pffering customers with choices in advanced propulsion technology. Furthermore, CNG is a clean-burning, domestically produced fuel and hence – this is making it very appealing. Moreover, General Motors is the only manufacturer to offer a single-source option for its gaseous fuel vehicles.

In details, the bi-fuel trucks are built with a specially designed engine. Then the fuel system is installed by GM’s Tier One supplier and the completed vehicle is delivered directly to the customer. Furthermore, the vehicles are contributing for the reduction of emissions. The trucks were built in Fort Wayne, Ind., and then sent to the Tier One supplier for installation of the CNG bi-fuel delivery and storage system.

2013 Chevrolet Silverado HD Bi-Fuel Pickup — Chevrolet Silverado HD Bi-Fuel Pickup (2013)

Source: Chevrolet

March 5, 2012

First official video of the new Fiat 500L released

The first official video of the new 2012 Fiat 500L has just been released as a preparation of its world debut – tomorrow at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. In the name of the vehicle L stands for “Large” and of course 500 signifies that the car is part of the Fiat 500 range. The model shows a 500 version which is bigger in size and can accommodate new experiences and needs. For example, the new 2012 Fiat 500L is the first car of the range which is perfect for the family. In addition, the 500L expresses all of the taste of Italian style with a distinctive and catchy look and interprets the totally Fiat capability of conceiving and designing cars which are innovative in substance and in form. What distinguishes this model from the others is that it is “space-efficient”. Furthermore, the vehicle is designed by the Centro Stile Fiat, which drew inspiration from the modern reinterpretation of a car concept designed to achieve better external visibility and a large amount of internal light. This is achieved thank to the glass roof, which is the largest in its category. What is record braking for the segment here is that the model has a colour range of 30 body colours. The spaciousness of the interior offers lots of levels of comfort and it is the best in its category in relation to the external dimensions – 414 cm long, 178 cm wide and 166 cm high. In addition, there is a boot with a capacity of almost 400 litres that is able to hold up to 5 roller suitcases or a full-size push chair.

The new 2012 Fiat 500L will be launched on the European market in the last quarter of 2012. It will include an engine range of two petrol engines (TwinAir and 1.4-litre) and a turbodiesel engine (1.3 MultiJet II). Standing out amongst the petrol engines is the new 0.9-litre TwinAir, which is a new developmental result of the multi-award-winning Fiat two-cylinder engine, which in turn is famous with setting the world fuel consumption and emissions record thanks to its low displacement and inclusion of a high-efficiency turbocharger.

[media id=186 width=644 height=483]

Source: FIAT

March 5, 2012

2013 Nissan Altima Sedan Teaser [VIDEO]

The Japanese auto-maker Nissan has finally revealed a significant teaser of their new version of the Best-Selling Sedan – 2013 Nissan Altima. The vehicle is going to make its world debut at the 2012 New York Auto Show. The brand however, didn’t release much information about their upcoming product. What it has done until the present moment is to disclose an exclusive video clip of the new car. Therefore the fans of the brand and its customers can have a glimpse on the bold design of the all-new 2013 Nissan Altima sedan. All this is of course in advance of its world premiere at the 2012 New York Auto Show, which is going to take place in April. Additional information unveiled is that the Altima is built at Nissan’s assembly plants in Smyrna, Tenn. and Canton, Miss. On the other hand, the engines for Altima were built at the company’s Decherd, Tenn. plant. Of course, the brand expects great success for the 2013 version of Altima, because until now the model is the second best-selling car in the United States.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzYRJ3pbyCM

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Nissan

March 5, 2012

Porsche at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show

Porsche will exhibit the new 2012 Boxster alongside the Panamera GTS and 911 Carrera Cabriolet at the Geneva Motor Show at 09:30 on March 6 in Hall 1.

As we previously wrote, the 2012 Boxster features all-new lightweight body, new flat-six engines with direct petrol injection, a completely revised chassis and evolutionary styling.

It is powered by a 2.7 litre boxer engine with 265PS (195 kW) and a 3.4 litre flat-six with 315PS (323 kW). Both models feature a manual 6-speed gearbox as standard, with the 7-speed dual-clutch Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) available as an option.

Built in Zuffenhausen, Stuttgart, the new Porsche Boxster will hit the UK market from May 5.

The Boxster is priced from £37 589, and the Boxster S starts at £45 384.

The manufacturer is unveiling the 911 Cabriolet to a European audience right on cue for the open air season. The new model offers sporting drivers the option to enjoy the renowned dynamic qualities and iconic design of the 911 Coupe combined with the added versatility and driving pleasure offered by its folding convertible roof.

The roadster shares its new, high tech aluminium-steel body with the Coupe and extends this innovation to its all-new, unique hood. When raised, the design of the hood ensures the iconic 911 roof line is retained in its entirety. Intelligent lightweight design, including the use of magnesium in the hood frame, ensures reduced weight for increased responsiveness, lower fuel consumption and greater comfort. As is the case with the Coupe model, the new 911 Cabriolet is significantly lighter overall than its predecessor.

The new 911 models are on sale now starting from from £79 947 and the Carrera S Cabriolet is £89 740.

Panamera GTS is based on the regular model, but comes with updated 4.8 liter naturally-aspirated V8 engine with 430PS (316 kW) at 6700RPM and 520Nm (384 lb-ft) at 3500RPM. It is coupled with a 7-speed Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) transmission.

Despite to kerbweight of 1 920kg, the 4-door coupe accelerates to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and has a top speed of 288 km/h (179 mph).

A tuned chassis boasting performance-oriented options is standard; with the air suspension at its normal level the Panamera GTS sits 10 mm lower than the other models in the Panamera range and its damping is designed to be tauter, reinforcing the sporting personality. Dynamic performance is further enhanced by the combination of 19-inch diameter Panamera Turbo wheels, 5 mm rear wheel spacers and larger brake discs from the Turbo – recognisable by their red brake callipers.

The appearance of the Panamera GTS is characterised by numerous black exterior styling details. The high-gloss black exterior package comprises the side window trim, the decorative trim on the rear lid, the headlight washer unit cover, the rear diffuser and the side air outlet panels which lend a particular sporting touch. In combination with the black side skirts, the tail end and the matt black tailpipes of the sports exhaust system the result is clear-cut and striking.

The Porsche Panamera GTS is priced at £90 409.

Source: Porsche

March 4, 2012

Lamborghini Aventador J Speedster [rendering]

Here is a picture of a special convertible version of the hyper car – Lamborghini Aventador. It is set to be revealed at the Geneva Motor Show, next week. The name of the project is Aventador J Speedster.The J Speedster will share the same brutal engine – a 6.5 liter V12 with 700PS (515 kW) at 8250 RPM and 690Nm (509 lb-ft) at 5500RPM. It is coupled with a 7-speed ISR gearbox specially supplied by Graziano Trasmissioni Group. The performance will also probably the same – 0-100 km/h in 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 350 km/h (217 mph).However, at the Geneva Motor Show will be displayed the roadster version of Aventador, which is a different model.Stay tuned for more information!

Source: Autoforum.cz

March 4, 2012

2012 Hyundai i20

Hyundai has released pictures of the all-new i20, which will make its official debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.

The new model comes with refreshed styling, enhanced equipment and the lowest CO₂ emissions of any conventional powertrain car on sale today.

The engine range includes the new 1.1 litre, 3-cylinder ‘U-II’ diesel engine with 75PS (55 kW). If, you opt for Blue Drive, this engine will emit just 84 g/km of CO₂.

The engine was developed at Hyundai’s Diesel Centre of Excellence – part of the European R&D set-up in Rüsselsheim, Germany – and showcases Hyundai’s expertise in clean diesel technology.

There is another power unit with sub-100 g/km emissions – 1.4-litre ‘U-II’ diesel with 90PS (66 kw). When combined with Blue Drive technologies, it emits 96 g/km of CO2.

Dimensions: width – 1710 mm, height – 1490 mm, increased length – 3995 (by 55 mm) and wheelbase – 2525 mm.

“The i20 has been very popular with European buyers since it came to market in 2009, thanks to its combination of efficiency, quality, practicality and value. With an enhanced engine line-up that includes the lowest CO₂ emissions for a conventional powertrain, and sharper styling influenced by fluidic sculpture, the All New i20 will appeal to a broader range of buyers, including younger consumers. The assurance of our industry-best, comprehensive Five Year Triple Care package makes the All New i20 an even more attractive proposition.”, said Allan Rushforth, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Hyundai Motor Europe.

Source: Hyundai

March 4, 2012

Volkswagen Cross Coupe Concept II – 1.8 l per 100 km (157 mpg)

Volkswagen has announced the Cross Coupe concept at the Tokyo Motor Show last year, which is powered by a plug-in petrol-electric hybrid system. Now, it is turn to a new model – Cross Coupe Concept II. The vehicle will make its official debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in few days.

The new Cross Coupe Concept II will have even more frugal plug-in hybrid drivetrain boasting a superb 157 mpg fuel economy. The drivetrain includes a turbodiesel direct injection engine (TDI) and two electric motors with overall power of 306PS (225 kW). As we mentioned, the fuel consumption is as low as 1.8 l/ 100km and 46 g/km of CO2. The performance is also at decent level, because the SUV can reach speeds of 220 km/h (137 mph). Really, these will be amazing achievements considering the weight of 1 858 kg.

Further information about the Cross Coupé will be available when it makes its debut at the Geneva Motor Show on Tuesday 6 March.

Check out the previous Cross Coupe Concept here.

Source: Volkswagen

March 4, 2012

Alternative Fuels: Propane, Electricity, Ammonia and Liquid Nitrogen

Yesterday we discussed two of the most popular alternative fuels – biodiesel and alcohol fuel. As we already became familiar, both are efficient not only in ecological terms, but also in economical ones. Given that the concerns around the global warming are escalating, I presume that in the future, there will be a great necessity for vehicles which emit less CO2 or are with zero emissions. Hence, this leads to the though that even more alternative ways for propulsion are going to arise in the near future. As we all can see, even now on the market, there is a big expansion of electric vehicles and hybrid ones. In addition, the brands are competing in the development of vehicles which are both fuel efficient and ecologically preserving.

First, let’s review one popular alternative fuel: propane. It is a compressed natural gas which almost everybody has used in their homes. However, it is popular as an alternative fuel too. It is a by-product of natural gas processing and petroleum refining. The process is called cracking. What is commonly used as vehicle fuel is actually a mixture of propane and butane, or more familiar as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG or LP gas). It is not necessary to state the environmental benefits of its use and the fuel efficiency it delivers for they are already very well known. Take a look at some models, which are using this type of fuel:

Extremely utilized way of alternative vehicle propulsion is through the means of electricity. The good news is that although the EVs were very popular more than hundred years ago, their development now flourishes. Moreover, it seems that the automotive world is in a stage of competition. The different brands are investing nowadays more than ever in the development of technologies, using electricity as alternative fuel. The EVs use electricity which is stored in battery in the car and don’t emit CO2. Although, they aren’t as fast as their gasoline powered rivals, they are considered perfect for city driving. Some of the electric vehicles, already on the market:

Did you know that ammonia can be used as fuel? In fact, ammonia has been proposed as a practical alternative to fossil fuel for internal combustion engines back in the beginning of the last century. In addition, it can be successfully used in already existing vehicles, which engines need only slight modification. Ammonia is beneficial in terms of zero emissions and economical efficiency.

Liquid nitrogen is another type of emissionless alternative fuel. Liquid nitrogen vehicles are comparable in many ways to the electric vehicles. However, they use liquid nitrogen to store the energy instead of batteries as it is in the case of EVs. They have several advantages that should be mentioned. First of all, they can be powered through the electrical grid (which contributes to their eco-friendliness). Secondly, there wouldn’t be any transportation of the fuel, since the power is delivered from the electrical grid. This is also economically viable. Next, the maintenance is also at low costs. At last but not least, the liquid nitrogen vehicles don’t have the degradation problems of the battery systems.

To sum up there are many different types of alternative fuels and nowadays even more are developed and considered for commercial use. Of course the main reason for this expansion of research is the negative environmental impact which the gasoline powered vehicles are causing, due to their high levels of CO2 emissions in the atmosphere. Undoubtedly, in the near future the commercial use of electric cars or hybrid ones won’t be considered as extravagancy but as a high level of environmental awareness.

Vehicles with Zero Emissions - the future of the automotive world? — Vehicles with Zero Emissions – the future of the automotive world

March 4, 2012

Category: Car Makes