Car Makes – Page 855 – Automobiles Review

Nissan LEAF Severe Weather Test [VIDEO]

We have all been there: it’s minus 15 Celsius outside, snow chunks fall down on you like there’s no tomorrow and you can’t call anyone because your cellphone is dead. It wasn’t dead 3 minutes ago. In fact it had 2 lines of battery on the screen but now it’s over because the reality of the situation is that weather does affect the efficiency of Li-ion batteries. It’s the same frightening story with electric vehicles – what if I run out of juice in the middle of nowhere? Well Nissan are painfully aware of this issue and have gathered members of the media and the public in northern Japan to demonstrate how the LEAF tackles cold weather with a few tricks up it’s sleeve.

At 230 meters above see level in Shibetsu, Hokkaido the thermometers outside showed minus 9 Celsius. The LEAF was tested out on the snow covered tracks for a while and the battery temperature never dropped bellow 5 Celsius. Under more extreme conditions, like in Sweden or Norway, the LEAF‘s battery packs can be fitted with a warming system to preserve maximum capacity. Chief Vehicle Engineer Hidetoshi Kadota shared some tips with the 350 LEAF owners on how to get the most out of their EV’s. For example, pre-warming the cabin before taking a drive will greatly benefit range and efficiency.

Motoring journalists however, seemed more interested on how the LEAF would handle on slippery surfaces such as the powdery track in Shibetsu. A pylon slalom was set up and for what might be a surprise for some, the LEAF coped pretty well. The car’s Vehicle Dynamic Control, which monitors driver input and vehicle function is sure to have helped. Also, because of the center of gravity, which is really low (the battery packs are under the cabin), one might argue that on that surface, the LEAF handled better than any other FF or FR car out there.

Journalist and race driver Takayuki Kinoshita says LEAF proved it’s the one for the road:
“I think EVs, like the LEAF, will expand in the future. If EVs can only be usable in certain limited conditions, they will not grow. But I was highly impressed by the key message here, that the LEAF can drive normally in hot or cold weather throughout the world.”

Definitely a point for Nissan there.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_VGu0cfCuTM&feature=player_embedded

January 23, 2012

VOGTLAND Air Suspension Tweak

VOGTLAND is a company with a long lasting experience in suspension tuning and coil-spring production. Now they have a new product exclusively for vehicles with air-suspension chassis as standard. It is an electric module that basically overrides the function of whatever the air suspension and the user has a more viable access to vehicle height control.

The benefits that can come out of this are in favor of the dynamics. Suspensions can be lowered by up to 40 millimeters and as we all know the lower the center of gravity, the better the handling. Besides it just looks more cooler the lower it gets.

Installation depends on model of the vehicle but it is generally easy and seamless. Just pluging in all the connecting cables to the steering electronics of the on-board power supply will do the trick. The module is 100% compatible with standard equipment so any other systems that the chassis might have, can function without a problem. Deinstallation is just as easy, taking up only minutes of the customer’s time. Various cars, SUV’s and such, made by Audi, Bentley, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and Volkswagen can be fitted with VOGTLAND‘s module in question, For more information you can check out their website at: www.vogtland.com

Source: Vogtland

January 23, 2012

A Mossy Oak Ram Truck

With numerous cabin sizes and a variety of engine choices, the Ram Ttruck has a lot to offer in terms of versatility and character. But those who want that extra something on top or they just fancy a hunt should turn to Mossy Oak Graphics. It is a company that has formed a close collaboration with Ram (separate from Dodge) with the end result being the Ram 1500 Mossy Oak® Edition – a camouflaged, army green, four-door pickup truck.

Ironically, the most striking feature are the leafy, muddy patterns that decorate the truck’s body. It is a special sort vinyl (3M™ premium cast vinyl) that is said to be resistant to shrinking, cracking, fading, shredding and peeling. Installation is also made easy because of the pressure-sensitive adhesive technology and air-release channels used upon application. That way, one can continuously readjust the vinyls until there are no bubbles or imperfections.

Seat covers that also have a foresty feel also come with the Oak Edition. Made from a polycotton drill weave fabric, they will be easy to slip on or off and to wash them when needed. Most impotently they are theft proof because nobody will even notice those seats… in the forest.

Chrysler LLC, which makes the Ram, want to keep it competitive so they have gone with a couple of developments for the latest model, including a new four-door cab style offering, new suspension, a six-speed manual with every diesel engine, and the thing called the Rambox – a new storage system that allows secure storage inside the truck’s bed walls. Everything about the Ram feels right about off-road hunting except the fact that no matter how good of a camouflage it has, one can never conceal the clutter of a diesel or the rumble of a HEMI.

Source: Chrysler LLC

January 23, 2012

Wald Porsche Panamera S Black Bison

Wald International has announced their Black Bison package for Porsche Panamera. The project is based on the S model.

It is powered by a 4.8 liter naturally aspirated V8 with 400PS (294 kW) at 6500RPM and 500Nm (369 lb-ft) at 3500RPM.

The Black Bison package consists of a new front bumper, modified side skirts and new fenders. There is also a new rear bumper with an integrated diffuser, a tailgate-mounted spoiler and a four-tailpipe sports exhaust system.

The tinted front and rear lights are also part from the package.

The stance is further improved by a lowered sports suspension and nice big alloy wheels finished in dark paint fitted with performance tires.

Source: Wald International

January 23, 2012

Alcon CCX SuperKit for Nissan R35 GT-R

Alcon has announced the Carbon Ceramic Xtreme (CCX) Superkit for Nissan R35 GT-R. The specially created brake system includes lightweight brake technology and is half the mass of a similarly sized iron disc. It also boasts significant improvements in vehicle performance and agility and everything is track tested by Alcon’s in-house R&D department.

The results are more than satisfying. The new brake system is fade free and has excellent initial bite from hot or cold. It provides extreme stopping power and features low wear rates of both discs and pads.

The CCX discs are available in numerous sizes to suit customers’ individual requirements, while a number of standard supercar kits are in development and one is now ready for sale.

The Nissan kit fits perfectly to the original 20” wheel rims. It also comes complete with all hardware that you need for installation.

This is the ultimate fast road/track conversion kit for the stunning R35 GT-R and features:

•   400mm front ventilated, cross-drilled CCX discs mounted to stainless steel bells
•   385mm rear ventilated, cross-drilled CCX discs mounted to stainless steel bells
•   New 6-piston, monobloc billet front calipers fitted with Alcon CCX-1 pads
•   6-piston, monobloc billet rear calipers fitted with Alcon CCX-1 pads

Source: Alcon

January 23, 2012

Lamborghini opens new dealership Lamborghini Paris Ouest

The brand Lamborghini has just opened a new dealership in Paris, France. The name of the showroom is Lamborghini Paris Ouest. In the event was marked with the presence of Stephan Winkelmann, who is the President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A. The showroom is situated on 15 Boulevard Gouvion, Saint Cyr and is managed by Lamborghini’s partner Neubauer Group, which is famous with their professional work in Parisian luxury car market. In the new dealership can be seen the entire product range including the two series models – the Gallardo and the Aventador LP 700-4. The latter won 29 international awards for its unique design and innovative technology, which make it the new reference point in the super sports car world. The Aventador has achieved both public and commercial success. In fact, all cars which are going to be manufactured in the first 18 months’ production are already sold. On the other hand the Gallardo is the latest model from Lamborghini and it was presented firstly at the 2011 Super Trofeo Stradale. Moreover, the Gallardo product line-up is the most successful range in the company’s entire history. Given these facts, it is no surprise that since 2003 nearly 12,000 Gallardos have been sold.

The success for Lamborghini in the year if 2011 was major: it sold 1,602 cars (+ 23%). The lrgest market was the United States, followed by China. With the opening of the Lamborghini Paris Ouest, the company plans to improve and strengthen the sales network in France and the world. Moreover this new dealership increases the points of sales and aftersalec in France to five: two in Paris, Mulhouse and Lyon, and one in Montecarlo. In fact, worldwide Lamborghini has more than 120 showrooms in 45 countries.

Source: Lamborghini

January 23, 2012

2013 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible Sold for $600 000

The fastest Corvette convertible – the first 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition was sold on Saturday for the amount of $600,000 at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale. The model is going to be at dealerships in the U.S. this summer, and is designed to blend the elements of the Z06 and ZR1 models. In this auction was sold the car with The Vehicle Identification Number ending in 001. In details, it has the 427-cubic-inch (7.0L) LS7 engine taken from the Corvette Z06. More importantly this is the most powerful engine ever installed in a production Corvette convertible, with the astonishing 505 horsepower (377 kW) and 470 lb.-ft. of torque (637 Nm). On the other hand, like the Z06, the model is only available with a six-speed manual transmission, which puts an emphasis on the joy of driving.

2013 Corvette 427 Convertible at Barrett-Jackson

It is interesting information that the Corvettes made between 1966 and 1969, powered by the 427-cubic-inch are some of the most-coveted and collectable ones ever produced. In this auction, Chevrolet and Hendrick Motorsports have collaborated with four-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Champion Jeff Gordon and team owner Rick Hendrick, to raise a total of $700,000 for the AARP’s Drive to End Hunger food relief program. This special cause, called Drive to End Hunger is part of a multi-year sponsorship for Gordon’s No. 24 Chevrolet. The aim is to raise money and build awareness on the Americans who face the threat of hunger. It calls on racing fans, corporations and charitable organizations to actively participate in the cause.

Source: Chevrolet

January 23, 2012

BMW Group Design with six 2011 GOOD DESIGN Awards

The prestigious 2011 GOOD DESIGN Award was given to six BMW models. The success was achieved by the BMW 6 Series Convertible, the BMW 6 Series Coupe, the BMW 1 Series M Coupe, the BMW ActiveE, and the two motorcycle models BMW K 1600 GT/GTL and BMW G650 GS. In the field of product design, the afore mentioned award is the most celebrated international accolade. This year once again it honors the excellent quality of BMW Group Design.

This is one of the world’s most oldest and esteemed design prizes, and it was founded in 1950 in Chicago. The aim of the award is to recognize the exceptionally innovative and visionary products, concepts and ideas that go beyond the regular horizons of everyday product design. The criterion of the award is the combination of functionality and aesthetics in terms of originality and ecological aspects.

The first award was given to the exceptional BMW 6 Series Convertible. The model includes a stretched bonnet, set-back passenger compartment, long wheelbase and flat waistline with a classic soft-top roof featuring a distinctive “fin” design. The dynamic handling properties reflect, as you can see, on the car’s powerfully contoured surfaces and forward-surging lines.

Aesthetes who delight in luxury and forward-looking technology need look no further than the On the other hand the new BMW 6 Series Coupe brings to reality the unique combination of luxurious design, new technologies, dynamic athleticism and exclusive travel comfort. For example there re the innovative adaptive LED Headlights, which draw on the hallmark on round headlight look in a new rendition of BMW’s iconic design cues.

Next prize went for the BMW 1 Series M Coupe. The model cuts a compelling figure with its athletic demeanor and M-specific interior design. Moreover it has now an optimized track width of the front and rear axles, as well as an expansive front apron and powerfully flared wheel arches. Thus the new BMW 1 Series M Coupe now has an unmistakable character. The two sets of chrome-plated twin tailpipes, situated at the outer edges of the rear, make for the symmetrical look familiar from M styling.

The forth vehicle that was awarded with the prestigious prize is the BMW ActiveE. This all-electric-drive BMW 1 Series Coupe is the electric vehicle offered by BMW Group. The intelligent configuration of the drive components and energy storage systems within the vehicle create the ideal prerequisites for customary BMW driving dynamics and extended functionality. Moreover this model offers four full seats, boot space of around 200 litres, rear-wheel drive and a range of approximately 160 kilometres (100 miles) in day-to-day operation.

BMW K 1600 GT and BMW K 1600 GTL as part of BMW Motorrad were awarded too. Both motorcycles have undeniably self-assured, imposing and distinctive appearance. With its lean and wiry off-road physique, the BMW G 650 GS motorbike evokes an impression of lightness and adventurousness. Its characteristic enduro design and its colour concept are fully in keeping with the BMW GS family style and round off the bike’s overall sporty impression.

This is not the first time that BMW Group Design won the coveted design award. In fact, in the past it won it several times. Last year for example, the award winners were the BMW 5 Series Sedan, the MINI Countryman, the BMW S 1000 RR and the BMW Concept 6. Moreover in 2008 the competition won the BMW 3 Series Convertible, the BMW 1 Series Coupe, the MINI Cooper S Clubman and four BMW motorcycles. Going back to 2007, we find the award winners: BMW X5, the BMW 3 Series Coupe, the new MINI and three motorcycle models.

Source: BMW

January 23, 2012

2013 Lexus LX 570 – Price $80 930

Lexus has just announced the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the new 2013 Lexus LX 570 luxury utility vehicle. The vehicle will be at dealerships in February wearing its bold new styling, interior enhancements, cutting-edge technology and remarkable off-road capabilities. Speaking straight to the point, the MSRP price tag of the LX 570 is $80 930. This is means that there is an increase of the price with 1.9 percent or $1 475. In addition the MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee, which is $875.

There are a lot improved features in the new LX 570. Thank to them the model now offers the exciting combination of luxury, on-road smoothness and off-road performance. To go further into details, the 2013 Lexus LX 570 gets a new enhanced look at both the front and rear. The refreshment is due to the new Lexus spindle grille. In addition there have been added new LED daytime running lights, which also complement an updated headlamp design with new larger fog lamp bezels. Next, the taillamps have been also updated; while the rear license plate surround gets a revised look and the tow hitch cover is more integrated. Both front and rear bumpers are upgraded with the rear bumper protector having a chrome accent. The turn signals have been integrated into the side mirrors, and wider bodyside moldings sport a new look.

Furthermore the LX 570 is powered by 5.7-liter V8 engine, which has four cams, and four valves per cylinder with dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). Therefore it is not a surprise that this astonishing engine produces 383 horsepower (282 kW) and 403 lb.-ft (297 Nm) of torque and moreover handles demanding tasks with remarkable smoothness.

More updates are made on the Crawl Control feature which now provides optimum throttle and brake modulation when maneuvering over rough, uneven or difficult surfaces. There is also the new Turn Assist feature, which tightens turning circles by adding more brake force to the inside rear wheel. The new Multi-terrain Select also allows the driver to optimize performance by choosing from five types of terrain settings.

The interior was improved by the new multimedia system. This system will be available with the next generation Lexus Enform®. The interior also got a new color TFT multi-information display, improved front seat cooling, and easy access for the driver’s seat, a power outlet for the middle row and unique trims and accents. The kuxury vehicle also has a standard navigation system with a high-resolution screen, which supports an enhanced map display, with audio, climate and other vehicle information. Moreover, the navigation system also has access to the next-generation Lexus Enform® Application Suite. The latter leverages customers’ mobile phone technology to provide a new level of connectivity and information management. For example, users can conduct local searches through Bing, utilize voice-enabled apps, purchase movie tickets or surf the internet.

In addition Lexus offer the model in an optional Luxury Package priced at $1 510. In details it includes a cool box for beverages, semi-aniline leather-trimmed upholstery with new contrast stitching, a heated steering wheel, new mahogany wood-trimmed door switch plates, a rear-center armrest cover, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats (outboard position only) and Smart Access card key. In combination with the Luxury Package, the new LX 570 features an available dual screen rear-seat entertainment system with wireless headphones and three-prong electrical outlet, for the amount of $2 005. This unique system allows two video sources to be watched at the same time.

Source: Lexus

January 23, 2012

Opel Relies on LPG with EcoFLEX 1.4

Opel are now diversifying their EcoFlex range with with two new, LPG adapted (Liquid Petrolium Gas) additions. The Astra 5-door hatchback and the Astra Sport Tourer will get the more grunty engine while the Meriva will keep it simple with a less powerful and less thirsty version of the former.

This is not Opel‘s LPG debut however. They have been building LPG adapted cars since 2009. Last year, Corsas have started rolling out of the factory with 1.2, LPG modified EcoFlexes that deliver a nimble 83 hp figure and return 110 g/km CO2 which is absolutely not bad for a non-diesel. Now the Astra and the Meriva represent a follow up: they will both get a 1.4 Turbo EcoFLEX designed to sip LPG or run on petrol depending on the driver’s choice. The Meriva engine is slightly underpowered, producing 120 horse powers, 175 Nm of torque while the Astra hatch/Sport Tourer have 140 hp and 200 Nm of torque at their disposal. Carbon dioxide emission figures are 124 g/km and 129 g/km/132 g/km respectively on the combined cycle. Running costs can drop by up to 15% if one prefers driving on LPG and because the engines are Euro 5 rated, road taxation wont be much of a problem. The Astra and the Meriva certainly wont be the last to come with LPG as there are plans to start production of LPG powered Insignia and Zafira models later this year.

2012-Opel-LPG-ecoFLEX-medium2- — EcoFlex Astra Sort Tourer (2013)

The systems are perfectly fitted to cause minimal discomfort to the passengers and driver – the LPG tank is separate and embedded where one would expect to see the spare-wheel (The wheel itself still comes as standard). And because of having a normal petrol tank, just like any other car, the Opels have a combined range of more then 1400 miles if both containers are full. Transition from Petrol to LPG and back is done seamlessly with an ON/OFF button on the center console.

LPG integration is part of Opel‘s initiative to lead the “green” market by offering neat alternatives to pure petrol and diesel cars. The new EcoFLEX units will make a fine addition to an already broad portfolio of electric cars and CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) vehicles.

LPG, already familiar to Eastern Europe, is now gathering popularity in Western Europe as well. Over 80 % of the LPG Opels produced have went on the Italian market. The overall infrastructure which allows LPG cars to keep moving is widespread with 6,400 LPG filling stations in Germany alone. Other LPG friendly countries include France, the Netherlands, Belgium and even Britain.

Source: Opel

January 21, 2012

2013 Ford Shelby GT500 Durability Car Auctioned

Ford have announced that the 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 durability car (the prototype that was used to develop the production series) is to be auctioned at the 41st Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction Saturday in Scottsdale, Ariz. The reason is also a just one – bidding money for the car will go for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).

Up until recently, the prototype had been used by the Ford SVT team and Carroll Shelby to workout how exactly a car performs under rigorous tests and harsh conditions. It was built in 2007 and as a part of the project, it had to be run for 24 hours at a speed of 150 mph on Sebring International Raceway. Other oddities one should know before pulling out the check book include a full-sized roll cage, six-point harness seat belts and Recaro bucket seats. A big plus however, is the underside of the trunk lid which is signed by every SVT engineer who has worked on the development of the GT500 and it is also signed by Carroll Shelby himself.

Carroll Shelby and the Ford Shelby GT500 (2013)

“I raced on the Sebring International racetrack for many years, but my ambition was always to build my own car,” said Shelby. “It was exciting to be back to collaborate on this GT500 durability car with the SVT guys. I’m really proud to have my name on this car. They took my dreams of what a car should be and made it a reality.”

The 5.8-liter V8 engine in the Shelby GT500, has been overhauled in a way so that the maximum of power can be extracted from it – a new transmission, clutch and axle, cross-drilled block and heads, restyled camshaft profiles, a carbon fiber driveshaft. The end result accounts for the 650 horsepower and 600 lb.-ft. of torque that hide under the hood.

In recent years, Ford have managed to raise more than 3 000 000 dollars for charity on auctions such as this one. And know a lucky muscle car enthusiast will have the chance to obtain am emblematic “pony” and give something to those in need trough the JDRF.

Source: Ford

January 20, 2012

2013 Nissan GT-R US Price – $96 820

Finally, Nissan has announced the price tag for 2013 GT-R US model. The sports car hits the US market with a competitive price of $96 820 for GT-R Premium, while the Black Edition model is nearly ten grand more – $106 320.

The new 2013 GT-R is powered by a twin-turbo 3.8-liter V6 with 553PS (406 kW) and 627Nm (463 lb-ft) of torque, which is an increase of 15PS and 20Nm. It is not much, but at least it is something. In addition, the suspension has been retuned to enhance both performance and comfort. Other changes for the 2013 model year include a standard RearView Monitor and the Black Edition receives a new dry carbon fiber rear spoiler.

The braking system comes from Brembo and includes full-floating cross-drilled rotors, low steel high stiffness brake pads and Brembo monoblock 6-piston front and 4-piston rear calipers.

The rims are lightweight 10-spoke forged 20” RAYS with a premium dark finish. They are fitted with Dunlop Sports Max GT 600 DSST CTT tires – P255/40 ZRF20 in front and P285/35 ZRF20 in the rear. The Black Edition features special metallic black six-spoke RAYS lightweight wheels with the same tires.

Six exterior colors are available for 2013: Deep Blue Pearl, Jet Black, Solid Red, Gun Metallic, Pearl White and a 4-stage metallic Super Silver.

The interior boasts performance bucket seats, a cockpit-style instrument panel with a large center-mounted tachometer and multi-function display. The Black Edition adds custom red and black Recaro leather-appointed seats, red and black interior trim and a dark headliner.

An 11-speaker Bose sound , is standard. Additional standard equipment for 2013 includes a RearView Monitor, Nissan Navigation System with XM NavTraffic® with Real-Time Traffic Information and NavWeatherTM capabilities, and Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System.

Source: Nissan

January 20, 2012

Category: Car Makes