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Volvo Cars debuts the new 2015 Volvo XC90

2015-Volvo-XC90_651

Volvo Cars has officially unveiled the eagerly expected 2015 Volvo XC90 after months of speculation. As promised before the new SUV delivers world leading safety features, new powertrain technologies, power and fuel efficiency, and a superior interior finish – all wrapped in a visually striking design.

“This is one of the most important days in our history. We are not just launching a car, but re-launching our brand. This day marks a new era for our company. The XC90 paves the way for a portfolio of exciting new cars to come in the following years,” said Håkan Samuelsson, President and CEO of Volvo Car Group.

The new 2015 Volvo XC90 is the result of a USD 11-billion investment program and is the first vehicle in a new chapter of Volvo’s history that includes a future design direction, a range of new technologies and the all new Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) technology.

The T-shaped “Thor’s Hammer” DRL lights will be the first thing that will impress you when you see the new 2015 Volvo XC90. The new vehicle is also the first Volvo to come with the company’s new and more prominent iron mark, which has the iconic arrow elegantly aligned with the diagonal slash across the grille. The XC90’s larger bonnet with its new topography, the beltline and the sharpened shoulders connecting with the distinctive new rear lights are other important design signatures that will be mirrored across the range. In addition to that the new 2015 Volvo XC90 will sport wheel sizes of up to 22 inches.

“The overall impression, both exterior and interior, has a strong connection to the key elements of the Swedish lifestyle: the generous space, the celebration of light and the focus on wellbeing,” said Thomas Ingenlath, Senior Vice President Design of Volvo Car Group.

“SPA has enabled us to create the world’s first SUV without compromises,” says Dr. Peter Mertens, Senior Vice President, Research and Development of Volvo Car Group. “You get the in-command feel, generous interior space and flexible capability combined with the agility and smooth comfort of a much smaller and lower car. The adrenaline rush that is key to true driving pleasure is delivered by powertrains that offer an unrivalled combination of power and clean operation. And since the XC90 carries the Volvo badge, world-class safety is standard.”

The all-new 2015 Volvo XC90 comes with a number of comprehensive and technologically sophisticated safety technologies including two world first safety features – a run-off road protection package and an auto brake at intersection capability. In a run-off road scenario, the all-new Volvo XC90 detects what is happening and the front safety belts are tightened to keep the occupants in position. To help prevent spine injuries, energy-absorbing functionality between the seat and seat frame cushions the vertical forces that can arise when the car encounters a hard landing in the terrain. The XC90 is the first car in the world with technology that features automatic braking if the driver turns in front of an oncoming car. This is a common scenario at busy city crossings as well as on highways, where the speed limits are higher. Finally you get the so called City Safety feature that includes auto brake functions that are standard on the all-new XC90. It covers vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians in front of the car during daytime and at night.

“The new technologies will take us a significant step closer to our vision that no one will be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo car by 2020,” says Dr. Mertens. “Our starting point on safety is the same today as it was when the company was created almost 90 years ago: real-life situations. We study data. We crunch numbers. We innovate. The result is one of the safest cars ever made.”

The new Volvo XC90 is very luxurious on the inside too. The vehicle features a tablet-like touch screen control console, which forms the heart of an all-new in-car control system. This system is virtually button free and represents an entirely new way for drivers to control their car and access a range of Internet-based products and services. It also helps create an interior that is modern, spacious and uncluttered. The interior is made of soft leather and wood with handcrafted details, including a gear lever that is made of crystal glass from Orrefors – the famous Swedish glassmaker – and diamond-cut controls for the Start/Stop button and volume control. The genuine seven seater features new, innovatively designed seats that also free up interior space for passengers both in the second and third seat rows. The third row offers class-leading comfort for two passengers up to 170 cm (5 ft 7 in) tall. Music fans are covered too – the XC90 now comes with one of the top audio systems available in the automotive world thanks to efforts by both Volvo Cars and the British audio equipment company Bowers & Wilkins. The top-of-the-line system in the XC90 features a 1,400-watt Class D amplifier and 19 Bowers & Wilkins speakers. It also includes one of the first air-ventilated subwoofers in a car. Integrated into the car body, it turns the whole interior space into a giant subwoofer. The latest sound processing software has ben used to manage the timing of the sound and co-ordination of the speakers. This brings the emotional experience of a world-class live performance into the car.

Two main accessory themes also add taste to the all-new 2015 Volvo XC90. The vehicle offers a choice between the Urban Luxury package and the Rugged Luxury kit. The former combines a color co-ordinated body kit with polished stainless steel details, such as front deco frames, front and rear skid plates and side scuff plates while the latter enhances the ruggedness of the XC90 SUV with tech matte black exterior trim, stainless steel skid plates, running boards with illumination and integrated exhaust pipes. The Urban Luxury package also arrives with 21-inch exclusive polished wheels, while the Rugged Luxury kit has unique 22-inch wheels.

The 2015 Volvo XC90 is powered by a range of 2-liter, four cylinder Drive-E engines that provide both power and fuel efficiency. The most powerful engine of them all is the XC90 Twin Engine that combines a 2-liter, four-cylinder supercharged and turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor for total power output of 400 horsepower (294 kW) and carbon dioxide emissions of just around 60 g/km.

Fans of the XC90 will be able to order the new vehicle in October with customer deliveries starting in May 2015. Expect to pay around GBP 45,000 for one 2015 Volvo XC90.

Source: Volvo

August 27, 2014

Mercedes-Benz Releases Two 2015 C-Class Commercials [VIDEO]

2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan has debuted at the end of last year. Now the company is making the first steps of promoting the car throughout the United States via couple of video ads. In them, as you can see below, Mercedes-Benz has once again shown its strength characteristics. The 2015 C-Class is the “lightest, strongest, smartest, quietest, sleekest, sexiest, safest, quickest” C-Class ever built. No matter where one looks, in these adds the new model boasts automotive innovation from every angle.

The car is built around new and more lightweight, resculpted frame that houses a more powerful and efficient engine. There is also an ingenious touchpad control inside that can read handwriting. The new generation C-Class is longer and wider than its predecessor with 80 mm, due to the implementation of a longer wheelbase. The result is more comfort for the rear passengers which will enjoy an increased leg-room.

The car will be offered in three trim levels: C300, C300 4MATIC and C400 4MATIC. C300 4MATIC is powered by the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which produces 241 horsepower (177 kW) and 310 Nm (229 lb-ft.) of torque at 6,500 rpms and is mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission.

The C400 comes with an all-wheel drive and is driven by the twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine. It produces 329 horsepower (342 kW) and a healthy 480 Nm (354 lb-ft.) of torque. This unit uses the same transmission as the previous one. Later this year more diesel and hybrid versions are also expected to be offered in the United States.

2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan is currently available to order in the United States from a starting price of $38,400 USD.

httpv://youtu.be/qN6GitH_Bn4

httpv://youtu.be/ZbeXVLWgg_A

Video Source: YouTube

August 27, 2014

Prior Design PD6XX based on BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe

Prior Design has published more nice pictures of their latest project based on BMW Gran Coupe (F06). The luxurious four-door coupe has received a full wide-body aerodynamics package – PD6XX as well as unique interior.

The complete PD6XX Widebody Aerodynamic-Kit includes:

PD6XX WB Front Bumper

PD6XX WB Rear Bumper

PD6XX WB Side Skirts

PD6XX WB Front Fenders

PD6XX WB Rear Widenings

PD6XX WB Rear Trunk Spoiler

PD6XX WB Bonnet/Engine Cover

Prior Design also offers rear muffler for 50i models powered by a 4.4 liter twin-turbo V8. The system is made from 1,4828 stainless steel and has two exhaust valves. The endpipes are made from ceramic coated aluminum. There is also a programmable valve controller with three positions: Cruise mode, Sports mode and Open mode. The system has a EG certificate and meets all regulations for using on public roads.

There is also a set of 20” Aristo forged wheels – 9J x 20” ET40 at the front and 10.5J x 20” ET40. The stance is improved by a new suspension from H&R.

Prices are available upon request.

Source: Prior-Design

August 27, 2014

Infiniti ESQ is Twin of Nissan Juke for the Chinese Market

Infiniti ESQ is going to be officially shown at the 2014 Chengdu Auto Show in China which will take place on 29th of August. There will be revealed the details specifications of the model. And as you can see, although it is branded as Infiniti, it definitely looks like Nissan’s Juke Nismo but with a different grille and some other distinctive styiling cues. The Nismo twin is driven by a 1.6-liter MR16DDT DIG-T direct injection turbo petrol engine.

The unit produces 197 horsepower (145 kW) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque, and drives the four-wheels. Yes, this is the same powertrain which drives the Juke Nismo. The SUV’s engine comes coupled with a continuously variable transmission with manual shifting.

The main difference between both cars is inside. It seems that the ESQ looks more posh than the Nismo. This was achieved via the replacement of suede and Alcantara in the Nissan with leather and cross-stitching in the Infiniti.

The car is scheduled to go on sale throughout the Asian market, specifically in China, starting this October. The expected initial price in US dollars is around $33,000 USD, which is nearly $10,000 USD more than price of the Juke Nismo of the 2014 model year.

Source: Infiniti

August 27, 2014

2015 Suzuki Vitara at the Paris Motor Show

Suzuki Motor Corporation is going to exhibit the all-new 2015 Vitara at the 2014 Paris Motor Show. The new model marks the return of the famous badge first used by Suzuki more than 25 years ago, on a small SUV.

The production model is based on the iV-4 Concept, which was presented at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. 2015 Suzuki Vitara is expected to hit the UK market – next spring. It will be available with optional ALLGRIP intelligent four wheel drive. The small SUV will be powered by an array of ultra-efficient petrol and diesel engines offering low CO₂ emissions and outstanding fuel economy.

The all-new Vitara will have a striking road presence with distinctive design. There will be also an option of personalising the car with various color and trim customisation. Further details of these, as well as final specifications will be available closer to public launch.

Stay tuned!

The Suzuki press conference is scheduled on Thursday 2^nd October 2014 at 2:00pm. A number of models will be available at stand 511, in hall 1.0.

Source: Suzuki

August 27, 2014

Brabus Business Lounge Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

Brabus has unveiled their latest project based on the new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter with long wheelbase and high roof. The huge VAN has received an attractive exterior upgrade as well as an exclusive multimedia equipment

The exterior boasts a new front bumper with integrated LED DRLs and a set of 8.0J x 18” Monoblock wheels fitted with high-performance Continental tires of size 255/55 R18. Other highlights include two Brabus exhaust pipes with hallmark design for sportier appearance.

The interior is simply fantastic – fine leather passenger compartment with four business seats in a face-to-face arrangement and an additional third row of seats. The innovative communications concept of the vehicle integrates the passengers’ notebook or tablet computers into the media center of the vehicle independent of the technical platform.

In addition, all four seats offer welcome amenities such as lumbar support, massage function, heating, ventilation, and are power-adjustable with three-position memory function.

The third row of seats faces forward and consists of two individual seats with folding backrest. For times when more space for luggage or other items is needed, the seats can be removed.

The genuine-wood floor is designed as a veneer without tongue and groove. There is also a new air conditioning system designed by German OEM Eberspächer. It has a heating output of 10 kW and a cooling output of 13 kW.

There are 5” displays fitted at each seat in the cabin, eliminating the need for conventional switches in the passenger compartment. There is also an enormous 42” Full HD LCD screen integrated into the bulkhead behind the driver’s cab. For passengers seated in the two rear-facing seats there is a 10” display integrated into the center console between these two seats.

The sound is reproduced with superb brilliance by a Dolby surround sound system with an output of 1,200 watts and loudspeakers tailored specifically to the van’s interior.

Source: Brabus

August 27, 2014

2015 Nissan 370Z NISMO Goes on Sale in Europe

2015 Nissan 370Z NISMO debuted in May at the ZDAYZ event, where it showed the updates it received for the new model year. The 370Z incorporates a range of design and engineering improvements and in fact it is the sportiest 370Z produced up to date. The car embodies the essence of performance motoring, and part of this is due to the added design changes and new aero package.

The new model includes an entirely redesigned front bumper, which features a larger air intake, additional air inlets ahead of the wheel arch and new LED daytime running lights. Other updates include black headlamp bezels, special red NISMO trim at the base of the bumper, redesigned side sill and door mirror and special NISMO badging. 370Z NISMO runs on 19-inch Rays alloy wheels finished in black and silver.

At the back of this Nissan, there is a new bumper and spoiler design. Furthermore, the 370Z NISMO’s aero package includes a smaller rear spoiler that works in team with the new front bumper. It achieves more downforce when driving at speed.

Inside, the car is adorned by racing-inspired interior featuring new Recaro seats. They are significantly improved in order to deliver more support and comfort, and are based on the acclaimed Recaro Sportster. In fact, the seats have been specifically designed for the 370Z NISMO and feature a host of detail changes. The seats are trimmed in red and black leather and Alcantara and match the steering wheel.

2015 Nissan 370Z NISMO is powered by 3.7-litre six-cylinder engine that delivers 344 horsepower (253 kW). The unit is matched to a six-speed manual gearbox. The 0-100 km/h acceleration time of the car is rated at just 5.2 seconds. NISMO’s dual exhaust system delivers the perfect sporting soundtrack.

Nissan has also made several design and engineering improvements to the rest of the 370Z range. Some of them include the 18-inch Gun Metallic wheels, new Spinal seats with shell construction, revised suspension set-up and rear spring and damper rates, a new inner wheel arch and new carpets.

2015 Nissan 370Z is powered by the 3.7-litre V6 engine, which produces 328 hp (241 kW) and drives the rear wheels via a six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic transmission. The 370Z also offers Syncro Rev Control which is a fully synchronised down/up shift rev control system.

The pricing for both models will be announced closer to the launch later this year. They will go on sale in Europe in September.

Source: Nissan

August 27, 2014

Top 10 – 1/2 mile Trap Speed [video]

Dragtimesinfo has published a Top 10 video with the fastest cars on ½ mile (804.66 meters). As you can see from the list below, the Nissan GT-R R35 is occupying all places from 1^st to 8^th. There is no doubt that the R35 is the current king of drag racing.

10^th place: Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8 7.0L Custom Turbo – 1,200HP – 271.69 km/h (168.8 mph)
9^th place: Audi RS6 C6 Sportmile R1K – 1,100HP – 276.49 km/h (171.8 mph)
8^th place: Nissan GT-R R35 Mk.1 AMS Alpha 12 – 1,200HP – 289.15 km/h (179.6 mph)
7^th place: Nissan GT-R R35 Mk.1 DT 1500R – 1,600HP – 305.34 km/h (189.7 mph)
6^th place: Nissan GT-R R35 Mk.3 Gosha Turbo Tech ZEUS – 1,600HP – 306.38 km/h (190.4 mph)
5^th place: Nissan GT-R R35 Mk.2 AMS Alpha 12+ / Turbo Drive – 1,500HP – 319.96 km/h (198.8 mph)
4^th place: Nissan GT-R R35 Mk.2 Altechno SS – 1,400HP – 331.79 km/h (206.2 mph)
3^rd place: Nissan GT-R R35 Mk.1 Boostlogic Godzilla – 1,450HP – 333.95 km/h (207.5 mph)
2^nd place: Nissan GT-R R35 Mk.2 Altechno A1 – 1,500HP – 334.57 km/h (207.9 mph)
1^st place: Nissan GT-R R35 Mk.2 AMS Alpha 16 – 1,600HP – 340.58 km/h (211.6 mph)

Enjoy!

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

Source: Dragtimesinfo

August 27, 2014

2015 Skoda Fabia Interior Revealed

2015 Skoda Fabia not only has incredibly good looks but it is also more practical than ever before. The new model offers just enough space for five occupants and their luggage. The boot is the largest within the small car segment. In addition, the 2015 Fabia also offers 17 ‘Simply Clever’ features, nine of which are entirely new. To go further into details, the interior passenger space of the car is slightly longer and larger than this of the previous model year. In addition, the headroom for the driver and passengers was increased.

Despite the fact that the new Fabia is 8 mm shorter than its predecessor, the length of the interior has grown by 8 mm to 1,674 mm. Elbow room is also 21 mm longer (1,401 mm) at the front and 2 mm longer (1,386 mm) at the rear.

Next, the boot is the largest within the car’s segment. Precisely, the luggage compartment has the capacity of 330 litres. When one compares this to the previous model, this makes 15 litres more. When the rear seats of the car are folded down, the loading capacity increases to up to 1,150 litres. The rear is spacious with width of 1,098 mm. The loading area is 960 mm wide, which is 2 cm wider than the previous generation.

Nine entirely new ‘Simply Clever’ features are available with 2015 Skoda Fabia. These include MirrorLink technology, which allows smartphone apps to be displayed on the screen of the infotainment system, an ice scraper in the fuel filler cap, a high-vis vest in the driver’s door, a rubbish bin for the side door, 0.5-litre bottle and a 1.0-litre bottle glove compartment in the rear doors.

Other ‘Simply Clever’ features are well known, including the standard parking ticket holder on the inside of the left-hand A-pillar and the two optional bag hooks in the boot. There are also two storage nets available for the boot to keep the area tidy. Another interesting ‘clever’ feature is the corner light function of the fog lamps.

Source: Skoda

August 27, 2014

Renaultsport R.S. 01 – 500HP and 600Nm

Renaultsport has unveiled the R.S. 01 racecar coming with a LMP1-eligible carbon fiber monocoque. The R.S. 01 complies with LMP1 regulations and has been developed in collaboration with Dallara.

The futuristic body will be made from composites and will include a front lower splitter channeling the air flow into extractors installed behind the front wheels. These extractors are running along the doors and change their shape turning into intercooler scoops aiding cooling. At the back there’s a massive wing and diffuser as well as LED taillights and a twin exhaust arrangement.

The R.S. 01 rolls 18” Braid wheels wrapped in specially developed Michelin tires while the stopping power comes from 380mm carbon discs with 6-piston calipers.

Other features worth mentioning include a steel roll cage and a double wishbone + pushrods suspension together with two-way Öhlins adjustable dampers. In terms of dimensions, the Renault R.S. 01 is 4710mm long, 2000mm wide and 1166mm tall, with a 2744mm wheelbase and 1675mm front & 1624mm rear tracks.

The engine is a 3.8 liter V6 from Nissan GT-R – over 500HP (373 kW) and 600Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque. The power is sent to the rear wheels via a 7-speed Sadev sequential gearbox.

Full specs – below!

CHASSIS
Type	Dallara carbon monocoque and steel roll cage
Safety	Monocoque, roll cage and crashboxes compliant with FIA LMP1 2014 standards, collapsible steering column, Sabelt seat FIA 8862/2009 standard
Bodywork	Composites
Aerodynamic features	Front blade and splitter, stepped flat bottom, rear diffuser and rear wing
ENGINE
Type	Nismo V6 – 24 valves – 3,799 cm3
Layout	Longitudinal central rear
Feed	Injection – 2 turbochargers
Max power	> 500 hp
Max torque	> 600 N.m
Max engine speed	6,800 rpm
Electronic management	Pectel SQ6M with traction control
Data acquisition	Cosworth ICD Pro
TRANSMISSION
Type	Rear wheel drive
Gearbox	Sadev sequential, 7 speed+ reverse
Control	XAP semi-automatic with steering-wheel paddles
Differential	Limited slip
Clutch	ZF Race Engineering, long service life with anti-stall function
RUNNING GEAR AND SUSPENSION
Suspension	Double wishbone + pushrods
Dampers	Öhlins 2-way adjustable
Brakes	PFC Brakes 380 mm carbon discs, 6-piston calipers, Bosch ABS system
Steering	Hydraulic power steering
WHEELS
Wheels	Braid wheels, central mounting
Tyres	Michelin 30/68 R18 (front) and 31/71 R18 (rear)
DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT AND CAPACITIES
Length	4,710 mm
Width	2,000 mm
Height	1,116 mm
Wheelbase	2,744 mm
Front/rear track	1,675 / 1,624 mm
Fuel tank	150 litres
Weight	< 1,100 kg

Source: Renaultsport

August 27, 2014

2015 Ford F-150: Toughest and Most Aerodynamic

The designers of the new 2015 Ford F-150 made a challenging goal when they decided to reimagine the iconic pickup. They had to create an aerodynamic and efficient design that at the same time did not compromise the tough looks of the Ford truck. And we must say that the team definitely succeeded. Just take a look at F-150’s structured look features such as squared-off edges, shapes and surfaces. The vehicle expresses confidence, capability and work readiness. What is more, these elements are made in such way that they allow the truck to slip through the air more efficiently.

What balances strength and efficiency is the incorporation of sharp edges into the overall design. They not only convey toughness, but also enable airflow to hug the surfaces at the front portion of the truck. In fact, thee rear corners are designed to minimize turbulence and swirling air that can cause drag and reduce efficiency.

In addition, the vertical grille includes angled outer portions, which lead to the headlamps and bumper corners. The latter are swept back to smoothly direct airflow down the sides, reducing drag. The design of the hood allows the air to smoothly flow to the windshield and roof.

The tests lead in the wind tunnel enabled designers to see the benefits of the aerodynamic efficiencies. First, the flush-mounted windshield eliminates the need for molding that would disrupt smooth airflow. Next, the tailgate top act as a spoiler, reducing turbulence behind the truck.

The cargo box is narrower than the cab, however – the box volume was not reduced. This improves airflow, while a trim piece prevents air from getting trapped between cab and box. The rear corners with the taillamps are angled so the air breaks off cleanly and reduces turbulence behind the truck. At last, the duct under the headlamp channels air through to the wheel housing and reduces the wake generated from the wheel.

Source: Ford

August 27, 2014

Volvo releases truck that runs on natural gas

2015-Volvo-FE-CNG_thumb 2015-Volvo-FE-CNG_651

The Swedish auto maker Volvo has enhanced its truck range in Europe with the addition of a new version of the Volvo FE that runs entirely on compressed natural gas (CNG). The so-called Volvo FE CNG has been designed for activities that involve short driving cycles with repeated stops such as trash collection or local distribution. In addition to that the new Volvo FE CNG offers exceptional environmental cleanliness as natural gas has very low levels of harmful particles. If produced from biofuels, natural gas can have carbon dioxide emissions that are up to 70 per cent lower than those of a diesel-powered truck.

“With the Volvo FE CNG we can now offer companies that drive predominantly in urban environments a truck with a far lower environmental impact. Many cities the world over are looking for alternatives to diesel-powered trucks. In the field of refuse handling, for example, renewable fuels are often a requirement for securing a contract,” says Christina Eriksson, Business Manager Alternative Drivelines at Volvo Trucks.

The new Volvo FE CNG is powered by an all-new 9-liter Euro-6 engine featuring spark plug technology that produces 320 horsepower (235 kW) and 1356 Nm (1000 lb-ft) of torque. Thanks to its six-speed fully-automatic transmission, the truck retains the same excellent driveability and productivity as the conventional Volvo FE. The automatic transmission also gives faster driveline response.

“Spark plug technology is particularly suitable for driving cycles where the truck covers short distances with a lot of start-stop traffic,” explains Christina Eriksson.

“Methane gas is the fuel that will become a sustainable alternative to diesel in the long-term. Right now the focus is on working together with the various public authorities and private corporations to draw up the relevant rules and create the right conditions for positive development,” says Lars Mårtensson, Environmental Director at Volvo Trucks.

The new Volvo FE CNG will become commercially available this month with series production commencing in early 2015. No word on pricing as of now.

Source: Volvo

August 26, 2014

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