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2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV Receives SE Trim Level

The four-passenger 2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV received new SE trim which offers faster charging, as well as heated front seats and seatbacks. The innovative hatchback got an improved 120-volt, which reduces charging time to 14 hours from empty.

He more common model with 240-volt Level Two charger however remains unchanged, requiring up to seven hours from empty. 2013 i-MiEV SE model is also equipped with all the features included in the base ES model as well as some upgrades such as 15-inch alloy wheels, premium seat fabric, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, 360-watt audio system, silver cluster accents and dual-vanity mirrors.

As an option Mitsubishi is offering a Navigation Package that comprises of a 40-GB hard-disc drive navigation system on a seven-inch touch-screen display with rearview camera and Bluetooth connectivity.

2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV SE standard equipment:

AC synchronous motor (66 horsepower, 145 ft. lbs. of torque)
Six airbags – dual front, dual side-impact curtain and front-seat mounted side-impact airbags
Four wheel anti-lock brakes and electronic brake-force distribution
Active Stability Control and Traction Control Logic (comprised of stability control which stabilizes the vehicle when it detects skidding and traction control to control wheels from spinning when detecting loss of traction over slippery surfaces)
Brake Assist and Brake Override Systems
Anti-theft immobilizer and anti-theft security alarm system
MacPherson strut front suspension, three-link de Dion rear suspension
Power windows and door locks with remote keyless entry
50/50 split folding rear seats
Heated front seats and six-way adjustable driver’s seat
Air conditioning and micron air filtration
Battery warmer
MiEV Remote for timer charging, remote climate control (pre-cooling and pre-heating during charging)
Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System for pedestrians

2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV SE has a starting price of $35,498.

Source: Mitsubishi

November 29, 2013

BMW X6 M Design Edition Gets Launched

BMW X6 M Design Edition was officially introduced in September and now the exclusive model is ready for a full launch. The X6 M is a limited edition masterpiece and the fact that it will be produced in only 100 examples makes it even more exclusive.

BMW X6 M Design Edition has the perfect athletic stance because it sports visually striking elements both inside and out. From the outside, the outstanding model sits on 21-inch M Performance light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design and carbon elements. The low-profile tyres further add to the aggressive look of the car.

The vehicle ca be finished in Alpine White, Sapphire Black or Melbourne Red metallic, which all come together to create an elegantly sporty blend of colours. There are also included carbon fiber rear spoiler and a new rear diffuser. M Performance stripes are available upon request.

The interior of the BMW X6 M Design Edition comes with full Merino leather. There is also included a bicolour instrument panel in Black/Mugello Red with Mugello Red contrast stitching. Another exclusive feature for the model is the BMW Individual interior trim in Piano Black with an edition-specific badge.

Source: BMW

November 29, 2013

Kahn Range Rover Vogue RS600 & 600LE Revealed Prior Official Debut

A. Kahn Design’s latest additions to its garage of exclusive vehicles now include transformed Range Rover Vogue RS600 & 600LE editions. The models were designed specifically for those seeking more performance and at the same time count on the stylish visual characteristics of their vehicle.

The Kahn RS600 edition Range Rover Vogue was even teased in November via several renders and some scarce information. Before the vehicle makes its official debut, the tuning team has unveiled some additional images of the RS600 as well as of a new luxury edition counterpart, the 600LE model.

Both editions are scheduled for an official launch in December, when they will show the meaning of performance-oriented design. For instance, the RS600 will include a 16-piece wide wheel arch kit. The latter was created via high quality composites and precisely it comprises of front and rear arches, vents and a lower chin spoiler with sump guard detailing.

Other enhancements include new and more aggressive front grille, new front and rear bumper, and other refined and luxurious details throughout the exterior and interior. Just two days are parting us from December and we are definitely eager to see more of these impressive projects.

Source: A. Kahn Design

November 29, 2013

Jaguar Land Rover Is Using a New Data Sharing System for Car Development

After Jaguar Land Rover was sold in 2008 to Tata Motor, the luxury car manufacturer has focused on revitalizing its business systems to make them more efficient. With this in mind, Jaguar is now planning to use a new data-sharing system to help streamline car development. Over the past couple of years, Jaguar has had to migrate over from the systems used by Ford to one that will be compatible with its new direction.

Technology Used in Today’s Auto Design

One of the reasons why it’s important for auto designers to share data easily is due to the complexity of today’s in-car IT systems. Software is now a major part of auto engineering, particularly as new cars are connected to the internet. New models that you see on Carsales often have their own IP address, serving as mobile wireless hotspots. Safety systems also use electronic and computerized elements, and as we move closer to fully autonomous cars it’s important to be able to easily write and share code as part of the design process. For example, a new Range Rover has over 100 million lines of code written into it, which is more than a jumbo jet. Passengers now rely on computerized safety systems and infotainment to access the internet and react to the world as they drive.

Applications Used in Car Engineering

There are a number of computer applications or programs used to design new cars. This includes computer-aided design, computer aided manufacturing, and computer aided engineering systems. In many cases, data is stored separately in each of these applications and then accessed as needed. Although they are semi-integrated, allowing information to pass from one application to the next, this one will take integration a step further. Jaguar’s new system will share data to provide a single system providing all the necessary data. The data will reside within each application, but APIs will be provided which allow other applications to access the data when needed.

The integration will be based on OSCL, or open services for lifecycle collaboration. This provides the set of APIs used to exchange data between different applications. Jaguar Land Rover is also working with Dassault Systems and IBM in order to use their system engineering tactics in the design of luxury automobiles. This will help streamline the flow of information used in designing new cars, so that computer aided engineering processes are automated and shared. This helps engineers see how the products are performing, to make them perform better and verify all information.

Jaguar’s system is expected to be implemented over the course of the next three years. As technology grows and improves, more manufacturers could use data-sharing devices like this one to help make it easier to keep track of all of the data involved in auto engineering.

November 29, 2013

ABT Audi RS5-R

ABT Sportsline has presented the fabulous Audi RS5-R. It pack styling and performance modifications as well.

The 4.2 liter V8 is boosted to 470HP (346 kW) – 0-100 km/h in 4.3 seconds and a top speed of 303 km/h (187 mph). The huge performance triggered by revving up is very, shall we say, sound-variable, because ABT has indeed mounted an amazing sidepipe, ending shortly before the rear axle on the driver’s side.

“In the RS5-R, we combine our motor sport competences and the development of roadworthy vehicles in an ideal fashion. On the race track, power isn’t everything. Balance and weight are equally decisive.” commented Hans-Jürgen Abt, ABT Sportsline’s CEO.

There are a lot parts made from carbon fiber – assertive front skirt with side flics, the front splitter, side skirts, rear wing, rear skirt and bonnet with its impressive air outlets. Weight-optimised super sport-type wheels round it all off. The wheels also combine a top design with sportiness: ABT uses the elegant forged ER-F in 9.5J x 20” fitted with 275/30 R20 Continental tires.

The interior boasts black and red Alcantara. Racing stripes on the sport-type bucket seats, carbon door panels, 4-point safety belts and a roll cage adorn the driver’s “work station”. The sport-type steering wheel is ergonomically perfect and features an LED shift indicator and a carbon-Alcantara mix of materials.

Source: ABT

November 28, 2013

ABT Volskwagen Polo R WRC

The Volkswagen Polo R WRC has already won the tough FIA-Rallye world championship with Sebastien Ogier, France, but now is time for the road version to get some additional performance.

The Rallye model has 315HP (232 kW) from the 1.6 liter TSI engine and ABT Polo R WRC is very close to this number boasting 290HP (213 kW). 0-100 km/h in less than 5.0 seconds and a top speed of 260 km/h (161 mph).

ABT Sportsline recommends the attractive DR alloy wheel in its standard 18” version to go with the Polo R WRC.

After all, in its street version the “WRC winner” is also a champion on motorways and A-roads.

Source: ABT

November 28, 2013

ABT Volskwagen Golf VII GTI Dark Edition

ABT has introduced their styling upgrades for the new Volkswagen Golf VII GTI. The hot hatchback will be presented at the 2013 Essen Motor Show under the name ABT Dark Edition.

The exterior boasts dark taillights, mirror caps and headlight covers. There are also new side skirts, front spoiler and front skirt, trunk lid attachment and a rear skirt set with a four-pipe chromed black exhaust system.

ABT Golf VII GTI rolls 20” CR alloy wheels fitted with 235/30 R20 high-performance tires.

Other highlights include w sport stabilisers and above all the intelligent ABT height adjustable suspension kit.

The 2.0 liter TFSI engine is boosted to 300HP (221 kW) – 0-100 km/h in 5.8 seconds and a top speed of 258 km/h (160 mph).

Source: ABT

November 28, 2013

xXx Performance Juice the Audi R8 4.2 FSI Quattro

xXx-Performance-Audi-R8-shadow xXx-Performance-Audi-R8-medium

The ridiculous Oxigin 14 Oxrock rims with their silly spinning wraps strike again! This time the victim is an xXx-Performance Audi R8 4.2 FSI quattro. A shame, actually, since at a glance this mod sounds pretty appealing. Well, the livery/sponsorship too is a bit over the top.

The program is aimed at those R8 owners who look at the V10 version and go green with envy. Now they too can enjoy even greater surges of power because xXx-Performance have teeamed up with Chiptrick for this one, and they have managed to squeeze every drop of power from its “inferior” V8 FSI engine. Though, squeeze may not be the right term. Afterall, they’ve added a twin turbo system made up of two Garret turbines and a custom-made intercooler. Consider also the new high-pressure fuel pump, the more efficient injection nozzles, and the custom-built exhaust system with cross x-pipe plus flaps. It’s the embodiment of the sound and the fury. Vehicles with the sequential R-tronic 6-gear manual transmission are moreover upgraded with a special transmission software that is adapted to the new situations.

By now you might be wondering to what all of this equates. There are three stages of power boost:

Stage 1: 590 hp; 660 Nm of torque

Stage 2: 640 hp; 675 Nm of torque

Stage 3: 707 hp; 809 Nm of torque

With Stage 3, you can get from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds. The top speed would be limited to 194 mph. One other drawback, though: quite worryingly, there don’t seem to be any changes made to the chassis. Just some stupid wing attachments that mimic the V10 counterpart. Bottom line is, were we to have a go in it, ending up in a ditch would be inevitable.

Source: xXx Performance

November 28, 2013

Nissan GT-R GTT 1000 – 0-300 km/h in 16 seconds

Your car is fast enough when you’re afraid to turn the ignition on… or when it makes 100-200 km/h in 3.2 seconds. Dragtimesinfo has published a video showing a mighty Nissan GT-R GTT 1000 with 1038HP (763 kW) at 9,000RPM makes 0-300 km/h in 16.0 seconds flat.

The super tuned sports car is able to catapult itself 0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds, 100-200 km/h in 3.8 seconds and 200-300 km/h in just 8.3 seconds. The top speed is 330 km/h (205 mph) reached quite fast.

The mighty GTT 1000 runs on VP Import Race Fuel and rolls 20” Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires.

It is just amazing, how a car is trying to bend the laws of physics. Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQ4Xt7k6H9w

Source: Dragtimesinfo via Youtube

November 28, 2013

Suzuki Adds New Concept Model To The A-Segment [VIDEO]

Suzuki has just unveiled its newest concept called A:Wind at the 2013 Thailand International Motor Expo. The name of the model is inspired by the aim of the brand to deliver fresh wind to the A-segment.

This new morel is elegant both in terms of interior and exterior, provides enough space and excellent fuel economy. In fact, the exterior design revolves around three concepts: a dynamic body, a roomy cabin, and fine quality.

At the front one sees a dynamic front grille with integrated headlights. At the sides an elegant effect is created by the character lines. The interior on the other hand offers the ultimate spaciousness for an A-segment car.

In order for the cabin to be more comfortable, the distance between the front and rear seating has been extended. In addition, the door openings are wide enough and the seats are easy to get in and out of. Not to mention the enormous luggage space.

The interior is decided in bright elegant beige. In it the dashboard sweeps dynamically outward, which additionally reinforces the impression of spaciousness. The exterior color scheme consists of Energy Yellow and Panoramic Blue.

A production model based on the A:Wind Concept is currently under development and it will go on sale in 2014.

httpv://youtu.be/1bfyH2x3HZE

Suzuki A:Wind Concept Details:

Overall length:	3,600mm
Overall width:	1,600mm
Overall height:	1,540mm
Wheelbase:	2,425mm
Engine:	996cm3 petrol engine
Type of drive:	Front-wheel drive with CVT
Tyre size:	185/55 R16

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Suzuki

November 28, 2013

BMW 2 Series Coupe Gets M Performance Equipment

Another BMW vehicle next to the X5 xDrive35i will be equipped with M Performance parts. We are speaking here about the BMW 2 Series Coupe, which thanks to the letter M now belong to the vehicles with even more intensive driving characteristics.

The components will be available for the 2 Series Coupe in March 2014 and are regarding the areas of drivetrain, suspension, aerodynamics and cockpit. The power kit designed by BMW M Performance will be available for the 220d Coupé contributes towards an increased power output of the 4-cylinder diesel engine by 16 hp (12 kW) to 200 hp (147 kW) and maximum torque by 40 Nm to 420 Nm (310 lb-ft). The fuel consumption and exhaust emission figures stay the same despite the modification of the engine.

There is also added M Performance silencer system which reduces exhaust gas pressure and produces a sports-style sound as well as an M Performance tailpipe trim elements in chrome or carbon, bearing the M logo. In terms of suspension, there is being offered a limited-slip differential in the rear axle which ensures traction-optimized distribution of drive torque between the rear wheels.

Other parts which are offered as an option here are the sports suspension including a lowering of 20 millimetres, specific dampers and shortened coil springs finished in red, light and high-capacity BMW M Performance brake system with brake calipers painted in a choice of red and yellow or orange 19-inch forged BMW M Performance light alloy wheels.

The exterior components delivered by M Performance undoubtedly contribute towards the athletic stance of the car as well as for the optimization of its aerodynamic qualities. What adds even more to the exclusivity of the model is the available BMW M Performance Aerodynamic Kit for the front apron specifically designed for the 2 Series Coupe.

The aerodynamic balance is ensured by the combination of air ducting elements at front and rear which can be further complemented with a diffuser insert for the rear apron as well as attachments for the side sills. For the exterior there are also offered black decorative grid for the BMW kidney grille, exterior caps in carbon, side sill foils with M Performance inscription and BMW M Performance accent stripes in two colour versions.

The interior on the other hand brings the exclusivity of M Performance inside. It is inspired by the motor racing and features sports steering wheel in Alcantara/carbon finish with red central marking and Race Display in 12-o’clock position, a gear lever and handbrake handle in carbon and an Alcantara gaiter.

In addition, a carbon finish is also available for the gear selector switch of the automatic transmission. Other available components for the interior feature interior strips in carbon and Alcantara, high-grade steel pedals and a driver footrest in corresponding design.

Source: BMW

November 28, 2013

BMW M Performance Parts For BMW X5 xDrive35i

BMW M Performance parts will be available from March next year for the all model variants of the Sports Activity Vehicle, giving the new BMW X5 even more aggressive and athletic look. The power kit will be available for the BMW X5 xDrive35i giving it more power than before.

The powerful appearance of the vehicle is additionally accentuated via black decorative grid for the BMW kidney grille, a front splitter and exterior mirror caps in carbon, air ducting elements, a diffuser insert for the rear apron and side sill foils with M Performance inscription.

The interior of the X5 includes BMW M Performance sports steering wheel with red central marking, gear lever with carbon surface, accelerator, brake pedal and driver footrest in high-grade steel and BMW M Performance floor mats. In terms of suspension, the kit gives the vehicle M Performance brake system with brake calipers finished in blue and 21-inch BMW M Performance light alloy wheels in Bi-Color finish.

There is also an increase in the power output: the engine has been modified and it now generates 20 hp more than the standard one, resulting in to a total of 236 hp (240 kW), while the maximum torque is likewise raised by 50 Nm to 450 Nm (333 lb-ft). The increase in power however does not affect the fuel efficiency.

The response of the X5 M Performance is more spontaneous than before thanks to the optimised accelerator pedal set-up. This is noticeable both when accelerating from standing and in terms of elasticity, and when the driving experience switch is set to SPORT mode it is accompanied by a striking engine sound. As an optional feature, there are also offered a BMW M Performance silencer system and tailpipe trim elements in chrome or carbon.

Source: BMW

November 28, 2013

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2013 Mitsubishi i-MiEV SE standard equipment: