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Nissan Leaf – The World’s Cleanest Self-Washing Car

The 2015 new zero emission hatchback Nissan Leaf was crowned as a cleanest car in the world. Nissan introduced an innovative paint technology that repels mud, water, oil and everyday dirt.

Nissan Leaf’s exterior was treated with a specially engineered superhydrophobic and oleophobic paint, that repels every dirt by creating a protective layer of air between paint and environment. Rain, mud and oil beads are wiped out from the car, leaving the electric machine clean.

The special paint is called Ultra-Ever Dry and it was developed by Ultra Tech International. It’s creators say that Nissan is one of the first automakers to embrace the idea, when the project was just an experiment.

“No matter what the road throws at this LEAF, its Ultra-Ever Dry® exterior coating will throw right back,” commented the Ultra Tech International Inc. Chef Executive Officer Mark Shaw. He presented the benefits of the superhydrophobic technology and how it creates an “umbrella of air”.

“The 100 percent electric LEAF provides the perfect canvas for this new, advanced paint technology,” commented Pierre Loing, vice president, Product Planning, Nissan North America, Inc.

“This is one LEAF that never has to stop at gas stations – not even for a car wash,” he added.

The full electric Nissan Leaf is available for 2015 in three trim levels: LEAF S, SV and SL, along with options packages including advanced systems such as Around View Monitor and seven-speaker Bose energy-efficient audio and Hands-Free Text Messaging Assistant.

Furthermore the Leaf can be charged up to 80 percent of its full capacity in just 30 minutes when plugged into a quick charge port and using a fast charger. Charging at home through a standard 240V socket is calculated roughly to take less than five hours with the 6.6 kW onboard charger.

Source : Nissan

July 11, 2014

2014 Volkswagen Transporter Sportline 60 Special Edition

Volkswagen has unveiled the 2014 Transporter Sportline 60 Special Edition created to celebrate the model’s 60^th anniversary in the UK. The new model replaces the current Sportline and is available in short and long wheelbase forms as either a Kombi or panel van.

Some of the additional extras includes a set of 18” five-spoke alloy wheels finished in nice anthracite finish. There are also glossy black door mirror covers, black steel side bars, special decals as well as front and rear parking sensors. Other nice features include heated door mirrors, remote central locking, ABS, climate control and electric windows.

The interior boasts a Kenwood SAT NAV system with smartphone mirroring functionality as well as Bluetooth connectivity and DAB radio. The color range includes Reflex Silver or Deep Black as well as a Candy White finish with a Deep Black roof.

The engine is a 2.0 liter BiTDI four-cylinder diesel – 180HP (132 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission. Retail prices start from £29,940 (excluding VAT) for the manual transmission (short wheelbase) and rise to £34,170 (excluding VAT) for the DSG transmission (long wheelbase).

The current Transporter range is one of the broadest in the commercial vehicle sector and comprises of panel van, Kombi, Shuttle, Caravelle and California variants.

Sportline 60 specification

18-inch Sportline five-spoke alloy wheels finished in Anthracite or Black/Silver and with 255/45 R18 103 tyres. Includes Tyre Mobility System
Available in Brilliant Silver or Bi-colour finish
Body-coloured bumpers and door handles
Gloss black door mirror covers with Sportline logo
Front spoiler
Gloss black upper and lower front grille with chrome detailing
Headlights with interior chrome detailing
Darkened rear light clusters
Black steel side bars
Rear roof spoiler
Sportline exterior badge
Quilted, embossed leather upholstery with Sportline logo
Front carpet floor mats with Sportline logo
Leather-covered steering wheel and gearknob
Armrests on driver’s seat
Climatic semi-automatic air-conditioning for cab
Kenwood DAB Multimedia System, with 7” colour touchscreen, full European Garmin satellite-navigation with real-time traffic information, built-in Bluetooth® phone connectivity. DAB radio and single CD with DVD playback
Full iPod or iPhone connectivity with an optional lead
Trip computer with multi-function display
Front and rear parking sensors with rear parking camera
Front fog lights with cornering light function
Thatcham Category 1 – approved alarm and immobilizer with tow-away, perimeter and interior cab protection

Sportline 60 prices

Panel van range	Transmission	Wheelbase	Price (Basic ex. VAT)
T32 2.0 TDI 180PS	Six-speed manual	SWB	£29,940
T32 2.0 TDI 180PS	Seven-speed DSG	SWB	£31,520
T32 2.0 TDI 180PS	Six-speed manual	LWB	£30,640
T32 2.0 TDI 180PS	Seven-speed DSG	LWB	£32,220
Kombi range
T32 2.0 TDI 180PS	Six-speed manual	SWB	£31,890
T32 2.0 TDI 180PS	Seven-speed DSG	SWB	£33,470
T32 2.0 TDI 180PS	Six-speed manual	LWB	£32,590
T32 2.0 TDI 180PS	Seven-speed DSG	LWB	£34,170

Source: Volkswagen

July 11, 2014

Kahn And Evanta Collaboration Results in a Flying Huntsman and Barchetta

A. Kahn Design has teamed up with Evanta. The name of the newly formed team will be Ant-Kahn and they already have number of projects underway. The result of their collaborative partnership will be a hot-rod Defender and a custom Barchetta. Of course, the focus is on luxury and quality, which will be achieved via modern prototyping and manufacturing technology. At the same time both companies will also focus on the details that are associated with traditional coach building.

Afzal Kahn has revealed that they are already working on their future plans that aim to extend from coach-building to manufacturing series motor vehicles. He promises that number of models will come to fruition in the coming weeks and months.

Ant Anstead on the other hand stated that both British companies will be dedicated to continue building upon the historical excellence of British vehicle manufacture. For him the most important is to step upon and develop the traditions of hand finished coach building.

In the forthcoming months, Ant-Kahn plans to introduce the “Flying Huntsman” vehicle, which is a new take on the classic Land Rover Defender. If you remember, we have already seen this concept car in a sketch form. It will probably include the 6.2 litre V8 powerhouse coupled with a six speed electronic gearbox and will produce around 550 horsepower (404 kW).

After the production of the Huntsman, there will be a release of an Ant-Kahn original. This will be a retro-styled Barchetta that is scheduled to officially debut at the Goodwood Revival motor show. The third car planned to be built is a completely restyled Aston Martin WB12, which will be shown later this year.

Source: A. Kahn Design

July 11, 2014
Ferrari LaFerrari XX Prototype at the Monza Race Track

Here is an awesome video published by NM2255 on Youtube featuring the highly-anticipated Ferrari LaFerrari XX. The hyper-car has been filmed during a test drive on the famous Monza circuit. The model will be limited to just 30 units with pricing starting from somewhere around €2,000,000.

The LaFerrari XX sounds just brilliant and goes extremely fast around the race track. Still, after a few laps, typically for a Ferrari something went wrong and that caused one of the rear tires to go in other direction.

Still, there is no information for the XX model, but it will come with improved aerodynamics, upgraded electronics, a sportier suspension and racing tires. The car will be track-only toy and a very expensive one.

As a reminder, the “normal” 2013 Ferrari LaFerrari is powered by a 6.3 liter V12 with 800HP (588 kW) at 9,250RPM an 700Nm (519 lb-ft) at 6,750RPM. With the help of HY-KERS, the overall power is whopping 963HP and over 900Nm of torque. 0-100 km/h in under 3 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 7 seconds and 0-300 in breath-taking 15 seconds. A lap around Fiorano race circuit takes just 1 minute and 20 seconds – 5 seconds faster than the Enzo and over 3 seconds faster than the F12berlinetta. The XX model is expected to be a lot faster.

Recently, a tuning company called JMB boosted LaFerrari to 1050HP thanks to an ECU re-map, so we expect the new XX to be at least that powerful.

Enjoy the impressive sound!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6EIrO2bP6Q8

Source: NM2255 Car HD Videos

July 11, 2014
Skoda Adds Fabia Special Edition To Its Line-up

2014 Skoda Fabia Special Edition has just gone on sale. The lucky ones to buy the car will get a wide range of extra standard equipment at no cost. The new model has some design optimizations and redefined proportions. It is slightly wider and lower, or in other words it is very compact car perfect for urban utilization. For the creation of this model, Skoda has used its latest design language that was established by the Vision D car. The latter was introduced in 2011 during the Geneva Motor Show.

2014 Fabia Special Edition gets most of the Vision D and features new wide front grille, angular headlights and LED tail-lamps, but it keeps the C-pillar from its predecessor. The car is undoubtedly recognisable part of the range but it is also more expressive.

It will be powered by company’s popular 1.2-litre petrol engine, which produces 69 hp (51 kW). The car will be offered in any of the Fabia’s full range of colours, including metallic paint option. As a standard, the car will run on 15-inch alloy wheels. At last, over the standard production Fabia, this special edition will also get extra rear speakers, manual air conditioning, tinted glass, electric door mirrors and remote central locking.

Source: Skoda

July 11, 2014
2015 Opel Corsa OPC [render]

X-Tomi Design has published another nice render image of the recently unveiled Opel Corsa E (the 4^th generation). The designer envisioned the OPC high-performance variant coming with aggressive aerodynamics package. The render image is based on the official press photos of the model, so it looks pretty authentic.

2015 Opel Corsa OPC will be powered by a 1.6 liter SIDI direct-injection turbocharged petrol engine with 200HP (147 kW) and 300Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is taken from the Cascada model and will be mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox sending the power to the front wheels. The direct rivals of Corsa OPC are Ford Fiesta ST and Renault Clio RS.

2015 Opel Corsa E will make its official debut at the 2014 Paris Motor Show on 4^th October. The vehicle is available with a 1.0 liter turbocharged three-cylinder with 90HP (66 kw) or 115HP (84 kW); a 1.4 liter turbocharged – 100HP (73 kW) and 200Nm (147 lb-ft) and two naturally aspirated versions – 1.2 liter and 1.4 liters. There is also an updated 1.3 liter CDTi diesel engine, which will be offered shortly after launch.

The 4^th generation of Corsa is practically a brand new vehicle. All body panels are new as well as blades running across the lower door-sections. The interior features new design for the instrument panel and the dashboard.

Source: X-Tomi

July 11, 2014
2014 Vauxhall Astra GTC Gets New Diesel Engine

2014 Vauxhall Astra GTC will be more powerful on the road thanks to its new and refined 1.6 CDTi ‘Whisper Diesel’ engine. The Astra GTC is the latest model which will take the advantage of getting the more economical new unit, which was at first introduced in the Astra, Meriva and Zafira Tourer. In fact, Vauxhall has announced that due to the introduction of this powerplant, there will be a cessation of the 1.7 CDTi.

Precisely, the ‘Whisper Diesel’ engine produces 136 horsepower (100 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque. It is coupled with an improved six-speed manual transmission, which ensures that the refinement and economy of the unit matches its performance.

Astra GTC will be available for the MY2014 in three trim levels: Sport, Limited Edition and Sri Trims. They will be all equipped with Start/Stop and with a braking energy recuperation system as standard. The result is that the GTC 1.6 CDTi will deliver fuel efficiency of up to 68.9 mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of just 104g/km and 109g/km.

The engine is also Euro 6-compliant, and Vauxhall states that this is one of the engines best in its class for noise and vibration. This is due to the efficient combustion process with multiple injection, re-designed components and the utilization of acoustic covers.

Source: Vauxhall

July 11, 2014
DMC Teases Lamborghini Huracan Affari

The first photos of DMC Lamborghini Huracan Affari have just leaked. They show more details on the upcoming DMC LP630 Huracan, dubbed as Affari. This is an Italian word and means affair, and obviously the tuners don’t have anything against having one with this Lambo. DMC also noted that the internal project code is “STAGE-H1”. With this name they make a reference to their Aventador kits, so we must expect a thorough transformation of this supercar.

What we can see from these photos is that the Affari is getting a wide range of aero components. The front bumper for instance has received new tunnels. In fact, they seem to be sliced by aggressive center swords. Additionally, here is also where is featured a set of elegant front lips that deliver additional down-force and enhance the visual appearance of the car.

Furthermore, there have been also added side-skirts that contribute to the unique appearance of the Lamborghini. What is more, they play an important role in the aerodynamics of the car. At the rear, we can see a new rear wing, a base spoiler and a redesigned diffuser set-up. Most of the parts in this project will be made of nothing else but dry carbon fiber.

Another worth mentioning announcement that DMC have made about this project is that the Huracan will get ECU programming. So this means that we can expect from the Affari to produce far more than 610 PS (448 kW) and 560 Nm (413 lb-ft) of torque.

The power will be transmitted onto the road via new set of forged alloy wheels. Their dimensions are 20×8,5” at the front, wile the rear are fitted the 21×12”. DMC will be using a 245/30r20 and 325/25r21 tyres for the front and rear respectively.

Source: DMC

July 11, 2014
Volkswagen T5 by ABT Sportsline

After 11 years of production and going through a huge crisis, the popula Volkswagen T5 is still beloved by it’s fans.

Because of that, ABT Sportsline – the world’s largest tuning manufacturer presented by Volkswagen Group present a new promotional package for model T5. ABT Sportsline significantly improved the vision of the T5 by implementing sportier design and improving the performance of the vehicle.

Thanks to the ABT Springs, the CoG of the vehicle looks lower and improve the overall performance of the Volkswagen T5. ABT designers also offering a mighty 20’’ ABT CR double spoke wheels painted in “mystic anthracite matt”, which are completely in harmony with the overall vision.

The sports impression is complemented by ABT front grille with its frame in the colour of the car. The designers put a discreet rear spoiler making the drivers behind you to know that is not an ordinary tedious van.

“You now can get the front guard, rear spoiler, springs and a set of 20’’ CR wheels for a special price,” as says the CEO Hans-Jürgen Abt.

The ABT Sportsline designers have improved the exterior too. They created a new complete body kit, which is full of new accessories like a new front bumper and a new rear diffuser. With all these improvements the German tuning company ABT Sportsline make this classy van even more exciting to drive.

Source : ABT Sportsline

July 10, 2014
Mitsubishi Confirms Production Of 2015 Lancer Evolution

The legendary Mitsubishi Motors Lancer Evolution sports sedan will continue to be present on the US market during 2015 model year. For the GSR trim level there is a host of new amenities packages, while the MR edition will get more standard features. All models are to be equipped with new heated side view mirrors with turn indicators and drop cup holder with lid at no cost. In particular, the GSR will add new Premium Package that includes Sight and Sound Package, leather seating, power glass sunroof, heated front seats, sound dampening enhancement and piano-black front console box with lids. On the other hand, the MR model will get the nine speaker 710-watt Rockford Fosgate premium sound system.

The top of the line MR trim will also be equipped with FAST-key entry system, auto dimming rearview mirror, rain-sensing wipers, auto on/off headlights, color-keyed heat extractor vents, bright radiator front grille and beltline molding, sound dampening enhancement and like the GRS will feature the piano-black front console box with lids

Other standard features that were previously available include the FUSE Hands-Free Link System, automatic climate control, leather-wrapped sport steering wheel with cruise and audio controls, and aerodynamically-enhancing rear diffuser. What differentiates the GRS from the MR is that the first one gets as a standard a pronounced rear deck lid spoiler, while the second one – a lower-profile rear lip spoiler.

Under the hood of every Evo sleeps the turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder 2.0-liter engine. It will be responsible for the 291 horsepower (214 kW) at 6,500 rpm and a full 407 Nm (300 lb.-ft.) of torque starting at 4,000 rpm. At the rear of the transversely-mounted engine there are mounted stainless steel exhaust manifold and turbocharger.

The GRS will get the five-speed manual transmission, while the MR – the advanced 6-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST). The latter offers three automatic drive modes: “Normal”, “Sport” and “S-Sport”. While the “Normal” mode delivers nothing exceptional, the “Sport” mode contributes for quicker shifting and the “S-Sport” – for the ultimate race-bred driving.

Furthermore, the 2015 Lancer Evolution will get the S-AWC. This abbreviation stands for Super All-Wheel Control. Mitsubishi states that this is one of the most sophisticated all-wheel drive systems ever developed for a production car. There are three selectable traction mode settings: “Tarmac” “Gravel” and “Snow”. They will provide maximum tractability and performance in accordance to the weather and road conditions.

The S-AWC also includes various high-tech components and systems that also aid agility. Such are the Active Yaw Control (AYC), Active Center Differential (ACD), Active Stability Control (ASC) and Sport Anti-lock Braking (ABS).

The new Mitsubishi model will also get inverted MacPherson struts up front with a multilink design at the rear and suspension control arms composed of aluminum. In addition, the Brembo braking system will deliver the perfect deceleration. It features 4-piston calipers with 13.8-inch diameter rotors at the front and 2-piston calipers with 13.0-inch diameter rotors at the rear, 4-channel Sport ABS and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).

MR trim will benefit from increased performance thanks to the lightweight two-piece Brembo brake rotors at the front. They save 2.9 lbs. of unsprung weight at each wheel. Additionally, they are accompanied by Bilstein dampers and Eibach springs. The power of Lancer Evolution will be transmitted on the road via the 18 x 8.5-inch wheels coupled with high-grip 245/40R18 Yokohama ADVAN asymmetrical performance tires.

In terms of safety features and technologies, the Lancer Evo benefits from Mitsubishi’s next-generation Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE), Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), supplemental restraint system (SRS) with seven air bags, including knee and seat-mounted side-impact air bags.

Source: Mitsubishi

July 10, 2014
2014 Callaway Chevrolet Corvette Gets Torque Update [627 HP; 827 Nm]

The last time we have heard about 2014 Callaway Chevrolet Corvette Callaway it produced the astonishing 620 horsepower (456 kW) and 810 Nm (600 lb-ft) of torque. These figures obviously weren’t enough for the tuners and engineers at Callaway so they have opted for a toque update. After vehicle testing and validation, the vehicle has been rated at 627 horsepower (461 kW) at 6400 rpm and 827 Nm (610 lb-ft) at 4400 rpm of torque. In other words over the stock Corvette baseline the increase is exactly 167 hp (123 kW) and 196 Nm (145 lb-ft).

The graphic below illustrates the increase in power due to Callaway‘s new supercharger design and single acoustic chamber exhaust system. The horsepower increases gradually from idle to maximum engine speed, thus avoiding peaking at 6000 rpm. You can also see a broad torque curve with output of more than 678 Nm (500 lb-ft) at only 2200 rpm.

Callaway’s supercharger system features intake manifold design with new intercooler design, and a 2300cc high helix angle as well as four-lobe rotor pack. In fact, the tuners have developed the long-runner manifold to enhance the mid-range torque. The result ism 77 Nm (57 lb-ft) more than last year’s Callaway Corvette.

The intercooler system features three discrete liquid-to-air cooling elements, thus providing great inlet air cooling efficiency. In addition, the extended supercharger housing, convective heat transfer yields additional reduction of inlet air temperature. This provides more oxygen for the volume of air and at the same time enhances the power and helps prevent engine-damaging detonation.

Source: Callaway

July 10, 2014
Seat Celebrates 30th Anniversary Of Ibiza Model

Seat 30th Anniversary Ibiza Special Edition is a very special vehicle, with which Seat celebrates the 30th anniversary of the Ibiza. This special limited edition pays homage to the most popular and best-selling model of the company. The first example of the Ibiza was unveiled in 1984 at the Paris Motor Show and since then it has become a Spanish icon. In fact, for the last three decades there have been four generations of the model. They were all characterized by youthful and dynamic nature, as well as excellent performance.

30th Anniversary Special Edition is based on the three-door SC body. What makes the car different from the other models in the Ibiza range is the Balea Beige Paint. The vehicle will be also offered Technic Grey and Emocion Red.

Furthermore, this limited edition Seat also benefits from front xenon headlights, rear LED clusters, 17 inch black alloy wheels, black wing mirror housings and front grille in the same color, as well as commemorative logo positioned on the B pillar and on the rear windscreen.

The highlights throughout the interior of the car feature a rear view parking camera, Alcantara upholstery with beige stitching, gearknob and hand brake with the same color for the stitching, leather steering wheel, the SEAT Portable System and customized key cover as well as floor mats.

Source: Seat

July 10, 2014