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Mercedes Vito Upgraded by Hartmann Tuning

The German tuner Hartmann, which specializes in individual van-rebuilding, does its magic on Mercedes-Benz Vito. As it seems, Hartmann has a soft spot for Mercedes for after working on a Sprinter model earlier this year, now the company has decided to upgrade the Mercedes Vito and make it appear in a top shape.

Originally, this model is a 119 CDi Tourer which puts out 190 HP (140 kW) and has a nominal stock of 440 Nm (324 lb-ft). Now the new Mercedes-Benz Vito of Hartmann Tuning receives a power bump and produces 224 HP and also develops an impressive maximum torque of 505 Nm. This is due to an additional control device with easy plug-and-play-functionality.

The truly remarkable, sporty and luxurious style is revalued on the inside too. The driver’s cabin is improved with chic piano lacquer surfaces, custom floor mats and aluminum door sills with the logo of Hartmann Tuning.

The improvements do not stop here though. A huge part in the highlights of the Mercedes-Benz Vito plays VANSPORTS styling line. In order to match the additional charms of the van, there is a robust ABC manufactured VANSPORTS-VP-Spirit-Aerodynamik body kit. It is comprised of new front and rear spoilers, side skirts, widened wheel houses filled with racy “Navik 1”-wheels and 8.5 x 20 and 245 / 40 tires. The sporty style and dynamic design is indeed excellently accentuated. Last but not least, the VANSPORTS suspension lowers the Vito down and brings it closer to the road by 30 mm.

With the new customizations the van is tuned to another level. The refreshed face, enhanced interior and boosted power form a vehicle that will definitely make a lasting statement.

Source: Hartmann Tuning

November 5, 2014

Mercedes-Benz Makes Plans for the Future with Vision G-Code Concept [VIDEO]

Mercedes-Benz Vision G-Code Concept is a vehicle study from Asia an intended for Asia. The car was revealed at the opening of the new Product Engineering Centre in Beijing. The Sports Utility Coupé (SUC) is so strange and versatile that it probably aims to show the evolutionary design possibilities for Mercedes‑Benz. The car is fitted with dynamically flowing greenhouse and has sporty proportions, extensive assistance and camera systems as well as the variable plug-in hybrid drive system.

The G-Code, which is a 2+2 seater, features wide range of technical innovations. It measures about 4.10 metres in length and has counter-opening doors. Its muscular appearance is strengthened by the 21-inch aluminium wheels with delicate carbon-fibre spokes.

And if you think that this SUC features a conventional louvred grille, then you are wrong. The central trademark star and the two chrome louvres in the radiator are surrounded by a continuous display. The engine is cooled via air deflection though the apertures in the side and at the bottom of the front.

The innovative grille is complemented by two full-LEDs. If they are switched on, they extend from the depth of the headlamp and focus the light in line with the driving and traffic situation. Furthermore, two cameras replace the classic rear-view mirrors and retract flush into the A-pillars after the G-Code is parked. An LED light strip across the entire rear is used by the turn indicators, tail lights, and brake lights.

Inside there is space for four. When the counter-opening doors open, the G-Code offers unrestricted access for everyone. The steering wheel rests in the instrument panel, unfolds like a butterfly. The wide multi-information-screen display spans almost the entire width of the instrument panel offering an ease of access of the multimedia functions.

Driver assistance systems haven’t been spared here: 360-degree monitoring of the surroundings via 3D cameras, radar, infra-red scanner and GPS data, are all here. The interior of the G-Code is decided in striking contrast between dark and light areas.

The black components such as the dirt-resistant floor covering or the carbon-fibre seat structure are supposed to visualise stability, durability or utility. On the other hand, the white interior components (soft leather upholstery on seats and armrests) exude comfort and wellness.

More importantly, the power of this Mercedes comes two individually controlled units. The first one is positioned at the front and it is a turbocharged combustion engine, which runs on hydrogen and solely drives the front wheels. The second is the electric motor which drives the rear axle and transmits its power selectively to the two wheels via a dual multi-disc clutch.

In addition to the classic energy intake, here power is supplied via the high-tech “multi-voltaic silver” paint finish. It acts like a giant solar cell and is also electrostatically charged by the relative wind or by the natural wind. But this is not all: the special “power on the move” suspension aids in the generation of electricity.

httpv://youtu.be/6BrFD8KQ750

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Mercedes-Benz

November 5, 2014

2015 Chevrolet COPO Camaro Racer Revealed at SEMA

The famous COPO Camaro model has shown its 2015 form at this year’s SEMA Show. In fact, this is the fourth edition of the limited-production race car, of which only 69 will be built. The vehicle will participate in the 2015 racing season where it will amaze the viewers with its Abalone White exterior with gray and orange accents as well as the new COPO graphics. What makes the mode even more attractive is that each of the 69 units has been built by hand. The car will be powered by a 350 “LSX” V-8 engine with a 2.9L Whipple supercharger.

Furthermore, as a true racer, the COPO is fitted with NHRA-approved roll cage and other safety equipment features. Racing chassis and suspension components are a necessity as well as the unique solid rear axle system which has replaced Camaro’s independent rear axle.

COPO crate engines and parts have been specifically made by Chevrolet Performance for this production race car. Many of the specialty parts allow racers to construct their own race cars using the proven components of the genuine COPO Camaros.

In the engine range there are three six different powerplants, which are perfect for the 2015MY version of the racer: the naturally aspirated COPO 427 and COPO 396, the supercharged COPO 350 (2.9L SC), the naturally aspired COPO 350 and the supercharged COPO 327 (4.0L SC) and COPO 327 (2.9L SC).

Soruce: Chevrolet

November 5, 2014

Ford issues five safety recalls

Sometimes it just happens like this – you buy a new car, you enjoy it for a few months and then a big recall is announced and you have to bring it back to your dealer for repairs. Given you do not own a Ford you are safe for now but if you have a recently manufactured Ford vehicle you may be in some hot water.

The thing is that Ford has issued five recalls and this is the bad news. The good news is that vehicles sold in North America are the only ones that are affected and here we will list the vehicles that have a problem.

There’s a safety recall for about 27,600 2014 Ford Transit Connect vehicles for potentially incorrect fuel and vapor line routing. If the lines happen to be incorrectly routed, they may rub together and may cause a leak in the fuel line over time. Given there’s a fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source there might be a fire. Affected vehicles include certain 2014 Transit Connect vehicles with a 2.5-liter engine built at Valencia Assembly, Aug. 1, 2013 to July 10, 2014. Ford is aware of 25,238 vehicles in the United States and federalized territories, and approximately 2,359 in Canada. Fortunately no incidents have been reported as of now. The problem will be fixed at no cost to the owner by the nearest Ford dealer.

Approximately ninety 2015 Ford Transit vehicles are also recalled due to an issue with the bracket that holds the fuel filter to the frame. It may become detached over time, resulting in a knocking sound or an engine stall due to fuel starvation. An unexpected engine stall while driving, with the inability to restart the engine, may lead to an increased risk of a crash.Affected vehicles include certain 2015 Transit vehicles with a 3.2-liter diesel engine built at Kansas City Assembly, July 28, 2014 to Aug. 7, 2014. Ford is aware of 89 vehicles in the United States and three in Canada. No incidents have been reported so far. The problem will be fixed by a Ford dealer at no cost.

About 38,600 2005-2011 Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis and Lincoln Town Car are also recalled because they may have been improperly repaired during a previous safety recall for an issue with the lower intermediate steering shaft. The improper repair may cause a loss of steering. The vehicles being recalled include certain 2005-2011 Ford Crown Victoria vehicles built at St. Thomas Assembly, March 23, 2004 to Aug. 30, 2011; certain 2005-2011 Mercury Grand Marquis vehicles built at St. Thomas Assembly, March 23, 2004 to Aug. 30, 2011; certain 2005-2007 Lincoln Town Car vehicles built at Wixom Assembly, March 8, 2004 to June 5, 2007 and certain 2008-2011 Lincoln Town Car vehicles built at St. Thomas Assembly, Aug. 28, 2007 to Aug. 30, 2011. No incidents have been reported so far and Ford dealers will fix your car for free.

Approximately 950 2014 Ford F-150 vehicles in North America are recalled due to a brake pedal position switch issue. The brake pedal position switch may be incorrectly adjusted, which may result in a delay or a non-illumination of the brake lights when the brake is depressed. Drivers may need to use additional brake pressure to disengage the cruise control system, so Ford is advising customers not to use cruise control until the vehicle has been repaired. The cruise control system off switch on the steering wheel will continue to disengage the system. No incidents have been reported and the problem will be fixed by Ford dealers at no cost to the vehicle owner.

The last recall affects about 135,000 2014 Ford Flex and F-150 vehicles and is announced because of a passenger seat occupant classification sensing issue that may result in deployment of the passenger airbag in certain frontal crashes, if an adult is in the passenger seat. This may increase the risk of injury in certain frontal crashes.Affected vehicles include certain 2014 Flex vehicles built at Oakville Assembly, March 1, 2014 to May 31, 2014; certain 2014 F-150 vehicles built at Dearborn Truck, March 1, 2014 to May 31, 2014; certain 2014 F-150 vehicles built at Kansas City Assembly, March 1, 2014 to May 31, 2014 and certain 2009-2014 F-150 vehicles serviced with a suspect seat track assembly repaired Feb. 17, 2014 through Oct. 31, 2014. No accidents have been reported and the problem will be fixed for free at your local Ford dealer.

Source: Ford

November 4, 2014

Tanner Foust Racing ENEOS RWB Volkswagen Beetle with SEMA Premiere

Volkswagen Beetle is conquering SEMA in a special form which is a result of the collaboration between Volkswagen rallycross driver Tanner Foust and famed Porsche tuners RAUH-Welt Begriff. As a basis they have used the 2014 Volkswagen Beetle R. The car has been subjected to customization and now is about eight inches of wider thanks to the distinctive RAUH-Welt Begriff wide body kit.

As a matter of fact both companies have been in talks over the past decade to do a project together. The result now is at hand, although this Beetle may seem like an unusual choice for a shop known worldwide for its work with Porsche 911s. However, the historic connections between the two cars made it a good fit … of course – through some innovation.

Starting with the wheels, this VW sits on custom Motegi Racing Traklite wheels. They come in the format of 18×10 inches at the front and 18×12 inches at the rear. They have been built specially with a one-off stepped lip.

The Tanner Foust Racing ENEOS RWB Beetle also includes brand’s R-Line accessories. This means that it gets upgraded shift knob and pedal set. What is more, additional accessories are in development.

There are no words on engine modification, but there sure are going to be some. At the top of the engine range of the production R-Line sits the 2.0 TSI, which produces 200 horsepower (147 kW) and we definitely expect to see this poweplant getting supercharged.

Source: Tanner Fous

November 4, 2014

New ADAC Formula 4 Racing Cars Fitted Out with Abarth Engines

Following a continuous series of tests, Abarth was chosen as a German Fomrula 4 Championship partner for the next season. The prestigious carmaker was welcomed by the German automobile club and association ADAC with extreme enthusiasm. Demonstrating high-class support during the Italian Formula 4 Championship where Abarth contributed by supplying its engine to the Federation, now it is expected to deliver the same quality of products and satisfaction.

The Abarth 1.4 T-Jet 160 HP will be fitted on the single-seater built by the Italian company Tatuus. This car demonstrates the required high level of safety which is initially demanded by FIA. The first ADAC Formula 4 event of the 2015 season is appointed for Friday 17 to Sunday 19 in April, at the Oschersleben circuit. It will be the first of eight appointments on the calendar, two of which will take place on circuits outside of Germany.

For the upcoming Championship, Abarth will supply the engines to Formula 4 which serves as training foundation for the higher categories while taking into account the very young age of participants. Therefore, Abarth will be given an opportunity to stimulate the young population of athletes as well. In the future they will be able to turn into prosperous drivers who, later on, will be racing in Formula 1 and will be as good as today’s champions such as the four-time world winner Sebastian Vettel, Nico Hulkenberg, Nico Rosberg and Ralf Schumacher, and, in the DTM, such as Martin Tomczyk, Pascal Wehrlein and Timo Glock, all coming from the ADAC promotional championships.

Source: Abarth

November 4, 2014

Galpin Auto Sports has Prepared Monstrous Custom Acura TLX for SEMA

Two exclusive sketches of the Galpin Auto Sports Acura TLX were just released, showing one of the SEMA entries of the Japanese company. The TLX model will be displayed in three distinctive variants. The aim is to express the customization potential of the car and its performance character. The tuning company chosen for this task is Galpin Auto Sports (GAS) that makes a debut at the TLX. GAS TLX will be joined by the twin-turbo TLX GT Race Car, jointly developed by Honda Performance Development (HPD) and RealTime Racing, as well as a 2015 Acura TLX with the Genuine Acura Accessory package.

As you can see on the pics below, the sedan includes custom exterior styling and chassis modifications. Galpin TLX has a new signature Acura brand color, called Andaro Blue. Main modifications here are the custom aero body kit with new front and rear bumpers, side skirts and deck-lid spoiler, the custom exhaust outlets as well as the RSR Sport SI Series suspension kit with fully adjustable coilovers featuring 36-way damping adjustment.

The exclusiveness of the car is further strengthened by the special ADV5.0 M.V2 SL custom wheels in the size of 19×9 +38 at the front and 19×9+35 at the rear. The alloys are coupled with Pirelli 245/40/19 P Zero Tires and come equipped with Wilwood Superlite 6 Piston Caliper with 14″ Vented Rotor Front and Rear Brakes

Acura TLX GT Racecar is brand’s second entry. It was developed from the production by Honda Performance Development (HPD) and RealTime Racing. This means that it features HPD chassis and aerodynamic performance parts approved for Pirelli World Challenge GT-class competition. The power of this Beauty comes from its direct-injected twin-turbocharged V6 engine, which was also developed by HPD from the normally aspirated production engine.

At last, the TLX with Acura Genuine Accessory package is equipped with factory accessories developed specifically for this model. We are speaking about the Aero Kit that comprises of front, rear and side underbody spoilers, decklid Spoiler, chrome door trim, new floor mats and illuminated side sills. Not to mention the 19-in Diamond-Cut Alloy Wheels fitted with Michelin tyres in the dimension of 245/40R19.

Source: Acura

November 4, 2014

2015 Mustang GT Receives a New Supercharger Kit

The all-new 2015 Ford Mustang GT will get a new supercharger kit thanks to the collaborative work between Ford Racing and Roush Performance channels. Initially, 2015 Mustang comes with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost which produces around 310 hp (231 kW) at 5500 rpm and 407 Nm of torque at 4250 rpm. With the upgrade kit now, which comes complete with all hardware and exclusive calibration, the car will boost more than 600 hp. As it seems, for Ford and Roush performance is important but performance with a distinctive style is even more significant.

In relation to this slight improvement on the Mustang GT, Ford Racing Performance Parts manager Doug White said that; “Ford Racing and Roush are known for our winning collaborations in professional and sportsman racing. By combining our mutual expertise and high-quality engineering, we are delivering an outstanding supercharger kit for 2015 Mustang GT owners.” He then continued and added that; “Our software and calibration was developed using Ford Racing calibrators and test facilities. The result is a kit that delivers peak performance and exceptional drivability.”

The supercharger kit will be distributed and available through all Ford dealers, independent Ford Racing distributors and Roush Performance dealers. Ford Racing/Roush Performance parts limited warranty will cover the supercharger kit when it is installed by an authorized dealer. Moreover, technical support will be provided by both Roush Performance and Ford Racing technical hotlines. Sellers will be able to give further information to buyers on request.

Ford Racing/Roush Performance supercharger kit will be available in the fourth quarter of 2014.

Source: Ford

November 4, 2014

SEMA Chevy Natique Concept Pairs Custom Colorado With Super Air Nautique

It is the same car, it is the same company, it is the same show. This time the SEMA-bound Colorado Concept is called Natique and it is a joint product of Chevrolet and Super Air Nautique 210 that is one of the industry’s best wakeboard boats. In contrast to the previously presented Colorado, the exterior of this is decided in two-color paint scheme – a custom orange metallic flake and black paint. Complementing the darker side of the truck are the 18-inch Chevrolet accessory wheels.

As you can see, the model was entirely redesigned via styling and performance features. First, it is powered by the 3.6L V-6 rated at 305 horsepower (224 kW) and 365 Nm (269 lb.-ft.) Along with this range of power, this modified pickup offers a comfortable interior. It features innovative technology such as Chevy MyLink with a built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, Lane Departure Warning and Forward Collision Alert.

Chevrolet has included in this concept traditional truck features such as four-wheel drive and a highly flexible bed with Chevy’s GearOn™ cargo management system. Some of the exclusive additional features in this concept include four-wheel disc brakes with Duralife™ brake rotors, G80 automatic locking rear differential, Standard CornerStep rear bumper and EZ Lift-and-Lower tailgate.

Furthermore, the standard two-tier loading allows a platform to effectively split the bed into upper and lower sections, thus making it easier to haul, store and conceal items There are thirteen standard tie-down locations throughout the bed for utilization. The aforementioned Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning come as part of the safety package includes. Both systems use camera-based technology to warn driver of potential accidents.

Source: Chevrolet

November 4, 2014

Ferrari F80 Concept Car: Winner or Sinner?

Take a look at this beast but try not to let your jaw drop just yet. It is edgy. It is jazzed. And it looks freaking good! The acute style embodied in this red carnivore glides on and pinches the human senses. The only drawback, though, is that, well… the car is not real. What you see is Ferrari F80 which is the brainchild of the Italian designer Adriano Raeli.

Each line of this monstrously sick car is marked out in a manner that shapes a bold and powerful bodylook which certainly makes a strong point. The nose of the car is sharp and the rear long and aggressive. With those predator-like headlights, the concept car appears to be staring right at you. Challenging. Provoking. Tempting. On the outside, every part is outlined with extreme precision that forms compact and streamlined symbiosis with the rest of the body of the car. This smooth and gleaming fantasy design seems like something that Picasso would have dreamt about in his most daring dream. It is a mere killer! It is a car for supervillains.

In fact, it is not just pretty. It is pictured as hyper powerful as well. Under the hood, the designer expects Ferrari to equip the car with a twin-turbo hybrid V8 using Ferrari’s KERS technology. Hypothetically, Ferrari F80 is expected to produce the striking 1200 hp (895kW). What Adriano Raeli has also pointed out is that the car will purportedly weigh only 1763-pounds which will enable the hypercar to sprint to 62 mph in just 2.2-seconds, with a top speed of 310mph.

Source: Adriano Raeli

November 4, 2014

Chivas Brothers Company Teams up with Vauxhall Again

Scotch Whisky and premium gin company, Chivas Brothers, has decided once again to turn to Vauxhall in order to increase its fleet, ordering 15 Combo Crew vans. In relation to this, Tristan Campbell, Fleet Advisor at Chivas Brothers comments that; “We chose Vauxhall again having used the previous version of the Combo. We have a long- standing relationship and we knew that this vehicle was perfect for the task and are really impressed by the enhanced levels of comfort the new vehicle offers to both driver and passenger.”

The 15 Vauxhall Combo Crew vans will be used by Chivas Brothers’ company as site vehicles. Moreover, they will stay on the fleet for the next five years and will be travelling between one warehouse to another to load and unload casks. This will happen at the beginning and at the end of the whiskey maturation process. There will be approximately 2,000 miles covered every year.

The vans are powered by 1.3 CDTi 16v engine which delivers 90hp (67 kW) and 57.6mpg on the combined cycle. The vehicles are supplied with ecoFLEX and Start/Stop technology that helps them lower the overall average emissions of Chivas’ fleet, thus, emitting just 129g/km CO₂. Thanks to the excellent payload of 730kg, the Combo Crew van in L2H1 specification receives an advantage from 60/40 split rear seats, which is able to fold individually or as a pair. As a result, this gives the warehousing teams an opportunity to increase the load length from 1341mm to 1750mm.

Source: Vauxhall

November 4, 2014

Ricky Carmichael Shows His Chevy Colorado Performance Concept at SEMA

Since SEMA show started today the automotive world is furiously witnessing the birth of special one-off vehicles. An example for this is the 2014 Chevrolet Colorado Performance Concept which was developed by the American auto-builder and the motocross legend Ricky Carmichael. The midsized pickup truck is all about supporting this lifestyle. The vehicle features a cargo bed that is large enough to haul a motocross bike and a mountain bike. In addition, this Colorado has the power to confidently take them anywhere.

Precisely, crew cab’s 6’ 2” cargo bed allows hauling of items up to eight feet long (when the tailgate down). To secure the bikes, the concept has a tailgate extender. In addition, company’s GearOn™ system has been also included in order to hold larger items such as bikes, boards and kayaks above the bed. In this way it leaves enough room for smaller gear.

Carmichael’s Colorado boasts unique exterior and interior and racer’s competitive spirit. The body is painted in the famous nowadays matte gray (my not-so-favourite, so I consider it as a disadvantage), which was highlighted with high-gloss silver and yellow accents, and a graphic of Carmichael’s signature.

The 17-inch Z71 aluminum wheels, wrapped in Goodyear Duratec off-road tires, feature the same yellow accents. They are also to be seen inside, where racer’s racing number 4 is embroidered into the front seat headrests.

Furthermore, this concept version, just like the production, stays connected via Chevy MyLink with a built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. There’s also a standard rearview camera system. When it comes to the power the Colorado is driven by the 3.6L V-6 engine. The unit produces 305 horsepower (224 kW) and 365 Nm (269 lb-ft), and is equipped with a 2WD and a concept performance exhaust system.

At last, the Colorado is famous for its trailering capacity, which is rated at 7,000-pound at its maximum, when equipped with heavy-duty trailering package. The maximum payload capacity is of 1,590 pounds.

Source: Chevrolet

November 4, 2014

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