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  • AC Schnitzer Raptor MINI John Cooper Works Coupe

    AC-Schnitzer-Rapror-MINI-thumbA John Cooper Works MINI Coupe is sufficiently fast enough, right? Of course it is – 211 hp, 280 Nm of peak torque and a 6.4 second run to the 60 mile an hour mark. But apparently, one such MINI recently did a lap on the Hockenheim Race Circuit with a time of 1:13.0 on slick tires. The event was a 2012 “Tuner Grand Prix” and was hosted by the “sport auto” magazine. That’s pretty impressive, but AC Schnitzer believe, the Coupe can do better than that (it is after all a “tuner” prix).

    That is when they brought out their concept AC Schnitzer Raptor John Cooper Works MINI and did the same circuit in 1:10.87 on sports tires. Obviously, some extensive work was needed on top of the base. Two key concepts have been used into the making of the Raptor – power and lightness.

    The engine management system has been remapped with an AC Schnitzer Motronic unit, a Schnitzer turbo and interccooler sysem has also been put to work. There’s a limited slip differential and a sports clutch which connects a special “Short Shift” racing transmission to the drive train. The final pinch of power is added thanks to the new stainless steel exhaust system that employs a racing catalyst. The end result is a 1 second drop on the 0 to 60 mph run (5.4). The power is now up to 300 hp which stampede over your head at 5000 rpm and the peak torque stands at 340 Nm.

    A 100 kg diet has been imposed on the MINI – A carbon hood, doors and trunklid keep the weight down (so does the exclusive ion battery) while carbon sports wings and a carbon diffuser provide much downforce without an extra toll on the overall mass. A somewhat more stable body structure is achieved through additional antiroll bars and through a lower center of gravity thanks to the lowering suspension. On it’s axles, the Raptor MINI has the fairly wide AC Schnitzer 7.5J x 18” Mi2 BiColor wheels fitted with 225/35 ZR 18 tires.

    AC-Schnitzer-Rapror-MINI-medium
    AC Schnitzer John Cooper Works MINI Coupe Raptor

    Inside, one would not find the exact definition of luxury but you do get a roll-cage and carbon fiber buckets seats – comfy. Also the foot rest and pedal are all aluminum.

    And that pretty much sums up the AC Schnitzer John Cooper Works MINI Coupe Raptor concept which has the sole purpose to dominate the track… and your someone’s wallet – it’s estimated value is around 62,000 Euros.

    Source: AC Schnitzer

  • Astra GTC Bi-Turbo Diesel Joins Vauxhall Family

    Vauxhall-Astra-GTC-thumbThe Vauxhall Astra Hatch and Sports Tourer get some work done on the outside. A more “bold and aggressive appearance” is the desired effect or so we’ve been told. Put in a few words, they have just replaced the grille, relocated the badge, restyled the lower section and the indicators. If you happen to tick the “fog light” box, you’ll get the now new ones as well. The back is also somewhat changed but that’s not important right now. The real highlight of the story is that a new Astra GTC BiTurbo line is joining the family and it’s going to be the most powerful off all (not counting the VRX models).

    Vauxhall Astra GTC BiTurbo
    Vauxhall Astra GTC BiTurbo

    Yes, get out of the way, petrol. A 195 PS diesel is in the house. The Astra GTC uses a 2.0 CDTi BiTurbo…charged engine that heats up the front tires with 400 Nm of torque. It won’t be expensive too – £995 ($1,556) over the price of the old GTC 2.0 CDTi that had only 165 PS. So that’s £23,925 ($37,423) in total for 195 PS of power, a time of 7.8 seconds for the 0 to 60 mph run and 53.3 mpg on the combined cycle (it has a Start/Stop system). The 30 extra PS come from the two turbochargers (one smaller and one bigger) which work in a sequential way in order to eliminate and traces of lag at low rpm.

    Other than that, you get 18-inch alloy wheels, climate control a lower stance a meaner look and a “Track” interior trim complete with a flat-bottomed leather steering wheel.

    From now on, all Vauxhall Astras will have even more optional extras – a Driver Assistance Pack which has all kinds of gizmos to keep you safe and sound on the road, a Rear View Camera Pack, a Winter Pack and LED daytime running lights (optional!)

    Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer
    Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer
    Vauxhall Astra Hatch
    Vauxhall Astra Hatch

    Source: Vauxhall

    The Vauxhall (Opel) Astra Hatch and Sports Tourer get some work done on the outside. A more “bold and aggressive appearance” is the desired effect or so we’ve been told. Put in a few words, they have just replaced the grille, relocated the badge, restyled the lower section and the indicators. If you happen to tick the “fog light” box, you’ll get the now new ones as well. The back is also somewhat changed but that’s not important right now. The real highlight of the story is that a new Astra GTC BiTurbo line is joining the family and it’s going to be the most powerful off all (not counting the VRX models).

    Yes, get out of the way, petrol. 195 PS diesel is in the house. The GTC uses a 2.0 CDTi BiTurbo…charged engine that heats up the front tires with 400 Nm of torque. It won’t be expensive too – £995 ($1,556) over the price of the old GTC 2.0 CDTi that had only 165 PS. So that’s £23,925 ($37,423) in total for 195 PS of power, a time of 7.8 seconds for the 0 to 60 mph run and 53.3 mpg on the combined cycle (it has a Start/Stop system). The 30 extra PS come from the two turbochargers (one smaller and one bigger) which work in a sequential way in order to eliminate and traces of lag at low rpm.

    Other than that, you get 18-inch alloy wheels, climate control a lower stance a meaner look and a “Track” interior trim complete with a flat-bottomed leather steering wheel.

    From now on, all Vauxhall Astras will have even more optional extras – a Driver Assistance Pack which has all kinds of gizmos to keep you safe and sound on the road, a Rear View Camera Pack, a Winter Pack and LED daytime running lights (optional!)

  • 2012 Mercedes-Benz A-Class with announced pricing

    2013-Mercedes-Benz-A-Class-THUMB2012 Mercedes-Benz A-Class is soon going to proudly run through the streets showing off its design, powerful and great efficiency. Orders are already being taken as the prices are announced.

    The A-Class is equipped with powerful engines ranging from 80 kW (109 hp) to 155 kW (211 hp). In addition they are also extremely efficient with emissions from just 98 g of CO2/km and have a best-in-class drag coefficient of 0.27.

    These Mercedes-Benz vehicles are equipped with air conditioning, Audio 5 USB, electric windows all round, Headlamp Assist and 12-button multifunction steering wheel as a standard. They are offered in three trim lines: “Urban”, “Style” and “AMG Sport” in three design packages – “Night”, “Exclusive” and “AMG Exclusive”.

    Other optional features include: Intelligent Light System, electrically adjustable front seats with memory function, dashboard finished in ARTICO man-made leather, front sports seats with integrated head restraints and contrasting stitching. This means that all of the AA-Classes can be modified according to the individual taste.

    2013 Mercedes-Benz A-Class
    Mercedes-Benz A-Class (2012)

    A wide choice of petrol and diesel engines are offered in this Class. They are powerful but yet amazingly efficient. Starting with the first: A 180 CDI CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, will be the first Mercedes-Benz which is going to emit only 98 g of CO2 per kilometer.

    Moreover, all engines of the new A-Class include the ECO start/stop function as standard. The engines can be mated to a six-speed manual transmission or optionally to the 7G-DCT dual clutch automatic transmission.

    The A 250 Sport model will be available with the AMG Sport appointment line as a standard. It includes new diamond grille, exclusive 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in a 5-spoke design with 235/40 R 18 tyres all round and painted in high-gloss black with a high-sheen finish, together with red-painted brake callipers.

    2012 Mercedes-Benz A-Class prices:

    Model Displacement Transmission Output CO2 emissions Purchase price
    Diesel, direct injection
    A 180 CDI BE 1461 cc 6-speed, mechanical 80 kW (109 hp) 98-105 g/km €26,477.50
    A 180 CDI BE 1796 cc 7G-DCT 80 kW (109 hp) 109-116 g/km €28,643.30
    A 200 CDI BE 1796 cc 6-speed, mechanical 100 kW (136 hp) 111-121 g/km €27,786.50
    Petrol, direct injection
    A 180 BE 1595 cc 6-speed, mechanical 90 kW (122 hp) 128-135 g/km €23,978.50
    A 200 BE 1595 cc 6-speed, mechanical 115 kW (156 hp) 129-136 g/km €27,013
    A 250 BE 1991 cc 7G-DCT 155 kW (211 hp) 143-145 g/km €33,498.50
    A 250 Sport 1991 cc 7G-DCT 155 kW (211 hp) 148 g/km €36,860.25

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG 2.0 turbo: a sneak preview

    Mercedes-Benz-A45-AMG-THUMBThis Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG 2.0 turbo is in fact an early preview of the new completely redesigned high-performance Mercedes-Benz A-Class model enhanced by AMG. There are not a lot of details around this model. However we can expect around 370 hp (272 kW) and 300 pound-feet (222 Nm) of torque.

    Compared to the standard mode, which only produces 211 hp (155 kW), the AMG improved A-Class as obvious is stronger in power. This is due to the new engine included: twin-scroll turbocharged 2.0-liter one. It is named M133 and for its basis served the Daimler 2.0-liter turbocharged unit.

    The car will come equipped with all-wheel drive, hang-on rear differential, ESP – in other words the entire standard features that an AMG Mercedes-Benz can have. In addition, it is rumored that there will be included an optional Driver Package, which that will let the top speed go to 174 mph.

    Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG 2.0 turbo
    Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG 2.0 turbo
    Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG 2.0 turbo
    Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG 2.0 turbo

    Source: Autoblog via Mercedes-Benz

  • Lingenfelter Chevrolet Corvette C6 Commemorative Edition

    Lingenfelter-Chevrolet-Corvette-C6-Commemorative-Edition-THUMBLingenfelter Chevrolet Corvette C6 Commemorative Edition is powered by the almost unbelievable 750 by its 427 CID Intercooled Twin Turbo engine. The new tuning by Lingenfelter combines the ultimate thrill of wide-open throttle acceleration with a Z51 based hard cornering capability and exceptional braking performance.

    Here, in the Commemorative Edition of this Chevrolet model features a hand built 427 CID Gen II twin turbo engine, delivering 750 hp (552 kW) at 730 lbs-ft (539 Nm). The Corvette was carefully crafted and includes the hand built 304 stainless steel turbo manifolds, custom ducting and liquid to air charge cooler system.

    The interior of the car is wrapped entirely by custom Caravaggio Connolly leather. In addition what adds to the greatness of the car are the Lingenfelter CES series C6 body kit, massive 345 series Michelin Sport tires on 19”x12” rear HRE forged three piece aluminum wheels, Brembo brakes, serial numbered badges and a lot more.

    Lingenfelter Chevrolet Corvette C6 Commemorative Edition
    Lingenfelter Chevrolet Corvette C6 Commemorative Edition

    Lingenfelter Chevrolet Corvette C6 Commemorative Edition Specifications:

    • 6 Speed manual transmission

    • Z51 springs, sway bars & Koni adjustable shocks

    • Navigation system with XM Radio

    Lingenfelter package includes:

    • 750 horsepower 427 CID engine with the exclusive Lingenfelter GEN-2 twin intercooled twin turbo package

    • Corsa 304 stainless steel exhaust system – with 4 pro series tips

    • Heavy duty dual disk clutch assembly

    • Brembo 4 piston calipers, two piece rotors, stainless lines – front & rear with white Lingenfelter logo and victory red paint

    • Custom Caravaggio Connolly leather seats, console cover, shifter knob/boot, e-brake knob/boot, steering wheel and duffle bag

    • Lingenfelter C6 hood, Lingenfelter front spoiler, Lingenfelter side skirts and unique one piece rear fascia with Lingenfelter logo embossed

    • Koni adjustable shocks

    • Michelin Pilot Sport tires with Lingenfelter mini tub kit and 345/30/ZR19 series in the rear

    • Lingenfelter 756 Series 19″ C6 forged three piece aluminum wheels – by HRE

    • Special seat embossing, serial numbered plaque, wheel centers, Lingenfelter chrome fender badges

    • Special commemorative C6 coil covers complete with the classic John Lingenfelter signature

    • Commemorative Edition Hypertech HyperPac Onboard Diagnostic Computer

    • Excellent drivability, highway mileage not adversely affected

    Source: Lingenfelter

  • 2013 Hyundai i30 Tourer Production Begins

    2013-Hyundai-i30-Tourer-thumb2013 Hyundai i30 Tourer is going to join the i30 family as its production has already started. This Hyundai model will keep the characteristics which have made its hatchback sibling a great deal of success.

    Not only will bring the Tourer the great quality, value, stylish design, efficiency and driving enjoyment, but also it will add greater load-carrying capability to the i30’s package.

    The launch of the Tourer is the next phase of the New Generation i30’s introduction. The aim of Hyundai is to bring about more choice for their consumers. In addition the importance of quality and in terms of design, engineering and manufacturing will be retained.

    The Tourer will come with a load capacity of 528-litres with the rear seats raised and 1,642-litres when the seats are folded. This means that the new i30 Tourer will add further practicality to the everyday life of its customers.

    The design of the car was of course inspired by the new design philosophy of the company, and is in total coherence with Hyundai’s fluidic sculpture form language.

    In addition it is important to highlight that the i30 has already achieved five-star rating from Euro NCAP in the organisation’s test programme. Here are included 90% score in the ‘child occupant’ assessment, with maximum points in the ‘18-month-old’ and ‘3-year-old’ tests.

    Pricing and specification will be revealed shortly before launch.

    2013 Hyundai i30 Tourer
    2013 Hyundai i30 Tourer

    Source: Hyundai

  • Fostla Wrappings Audi RS6R MTM

    Fostla-Wrapping-Audi-RS6-thumbAn Audi RS6 Avant that has been touched by the skillful hand of MTM and then wrapped around with foil (increasingly popular these days) by Fostla.

    By boosting the power up to 759 hp and 912 Nm of torque, MTM have created a significant distance from the “standard” RS6 which has “only” 571 hp and 650 Nm of torque coming from it’s 5.0-liter V10 FSI Turbo (Gallardoesque) engine. That’s why this one is actually called the Audi RS6…R. Anyway. Other non-stock features include the valve controlled exhaust system, the sports catalysts, RS5 9×20 ET29 rims equipped with 275/35R20 tires and a body kit comprising of a front lip spoiler and a rear diffuser. The end product is good for a top speed of 348 km/h – enough to peel the paint off.

    But, what is actually on the surface of the body is foil. An anodized matt blue metallic PWF… something to be more exact. It’s been made by Fostla Wrappings and costs 2,500 Euros ($3,149). I know, but you also get tinting of the head and tail-lights. Still not buying it? Me neither.

    Fostla Wrapping MTM Audi RS6
    Fostla Wrapping MTM Audi RS6

    Source: Fostla Wrapping

  • 2013 Hyundai Equus

    2013-Hyundai-Equus-thumbHyundai‘s flagship, executive battle cruiser is born again for the year 2013. Hyundai Equus – the biggest, most powerful, safest and most equipped car, the company has ever made. There will be two trim levels (Signature and Ultimate) but no matter how you look at it, both of them are bundled with mind-boggling technology and it’s hard to tell them apart.

    Both will unconditionally get the bulky 5.0-liter Tau DOHC V8 that sends 429 hp and 376 lb-ft of torque through a Hyundai-developed 8-speed automatic gearbox. That power then is transferred to the rear wheels which is a big thing for Hyundai. Because of the Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing and the high-pressure direct injection system, the economy is good…ish as well – 15 mph city, 23 mpg highway and 18 mpg combined.

    Weight distribution is said to be 52:48 and thanks to a Continuous (lots of continuity with the Equus) Damping Control unit, and road surface can be tackled with the exact level of stiffness and rigidity. Then there’s the Vehicle Stability Management which controls a full bag of features (the ESC, the electronic parking brake and the smart cruise control) thus keeping you out of the ditch. Don’t think however, that the Hyundai Equus engineers went easy on the occupant safety tech. Not even slightly. You get dual airbags at the front, side airbags for both the front and the back as well as curtain ones on the length of the roof and a driver’s knee airbag. The seat belts strap on tightly when the Equus senses an imminent collision while the headrests ensure your head is where it should be – on your shoulders. A camera on the front grille (Ultimate) monitors for objects when parking and sends the data to an LCD monitor inside. The bootlid camera at the back comes as standard.

    Hyundai Equus (2013)
    Hyundai Equus (2013)

    As for luxuries, the Signature lists more than 40 features. Among them, there’s a 608-watt Lexicon 7.1 Discrete surround-sound audio system with 17 speakers, a massaging driver seat, a lane departure system, a set of 19-inch chromed alloy wheels and a Navigation system with DIS and multimedia controller.

    The Ultimate actually looses an occupant space at the back but the remaining two get individual reclining and massaging seats, tinted rear windows an entertainment system for the back and….a refrigerator. This one is obviously for the more bossy type of people. The ones that plan to spend a great portion of their time being driven around rather than driving themselves. But then again, the concept behind the Equus is just that – being executive…at an affordable price (which is still undisclosed).

    Source: Hyundai

  • 2013 Chevrolet Camaro in Europe [VIDEO]

    2013-Chevrolet-Camaro-CoupeTHUMb2013 Chevrolet Camaro will finally delight its fans in Europe, however better and mightier than ever. After a decade long absence, the new Chevrolet model will deliver its customers the outstanding 432 horsepower from its V8 engine.

    In addition the Chevy comes with a contemporary 21st-century design, which includes a V-shaped nose, wide, planted stance, and broad rear shoulders, and all distinguishing features of a true Camaro.

    The car comes equipped with a manual transmission which is mated to a 6.2-litre LS3 V8 engine that produces 432 hp (318 kW) at 569Nm (420 lb-ft) of torque at 4,600rpm. The acceleration time for the 0-62mph (0-100 km/h) sprint is 5.2 seconds for the coupé and 5.4 seconds for the convertible.

    The car will be offered with an automatic transmission as well, which is mated to a L99 6.2-litre V8 engine that produces 405 hp (298 kW) at 556Nm (410 lb-ft) at 4,300rpm. The acceleration time for the 0-62mph (0-100 km/h) sprint here is 5.4 seconds for the coupé and 5.6 seconds for the convertible. The Camaro has an impressive top speed of 155mph.

    The European version of the Camaro is similar in content to the 2SS model offered in the U.S. The new model includes all-new FE4 suspension. The set-up is distinguished by optimized stiffness and lateral stability for high-speed performance and maneuverability. The FE4 suspension package comprises of retuned front and rear dampers, plus new solid front (23mm) and rear (24mm) stabiliser bars.

    2013 Chevrolet Camaro Coupe
    2013 Chevrolet Camaro Coupe

    This amazing muscle car runs on 20 inch wheels wearing Pirelli P-Zero tyres. Brembo four-piston anti-lock disc brakes combine with StabiliTrak and traction control to ensure effective braking and quick cornering.

    The exterior design of the car of course is typical for Camaro. It includes the V-shaped nose which is flanked by high-intensity discharge headlamps with glowing LED xenon halo rings. Chevrolet’s ‘gold bow tie’ logo adorns the grille.

    The rear of the exterior is unique: twin LED tail-lamp elements mirror the unique look of the front end, and design is finished off with large, round chrome exhaust tips similar to those on the Corvette Z06.

    How about the interior of the Camaro? The vehicle’s interior conveys simplicity and refinement. However it incorporates contemporary details in the dials, switches and ambient lighting. The integrated centre console includes stereo and climate controls into a single piece of modern electronics. The cluster of four gauges – oil pressure and temp, transmission fluid temp and battery voltage – includes contemporary LED backlighting.The seats have sport design and sculpted shoulders. Accents of stitching can be seen as well.

    Some of the technologies and safety features included in this version of Chevrolet are: Driver Information Centre, Head-Up Display (HUD), rear parking assist with camera, six airbags, ISOFIX anchor points, Boston Acoustics nine-speaker stereo system

    Prices for the coupé start at £35 025 while for the convertible – at £40 025.

    httpv://youtu.be/xBng-QVoe78

    Source: Chevrolet

  • Smart Fortwo Iceshine Edition in Coupe and Cabrio

    Smart-Fortwo-Iceshine-Edition-THUMBSmart Fortwo Iceshine Edition is the latest special model created by Smart, which blends fresh, cheeky look and in addition comes along with chic equipment details. This special model can be preordered in white or in the eye-catching azure blue from June. The first vehicles in this limited series will be in dealerships in October.

    First, it is important to highlight that the Iceshine edition is going to be offered as a coupe and as a cabrio. It will come equipped with a 52 kW (71 hp) mhd petrol engine or a 62 kW (84 hp) petrol engine.

    This two-seater customization has an unusual appearance. First, the tridion safety cell comes in white. The bodypanels are available in white, or an azure blue. The latter color was developed for this edition.

    Other exclusives design cues include the white alloy wheels, with their new 3-double-spoke design and wide tyres in size 175/55 R 15 (front) and 195/50 R 15 (rear). These tie in nicely with the white tridion safety cell and door mirror caps. The LED daytime driving lights and special logo on the mirror triangle also add to the unique outlook of the Smart.

    Smart Fortwo Iceshine Edition
    Smart Fortwo Iceshine Edition

    The interior of all Iceshine models includes leather-effect seats with a white fabric insert on the backrest and white stitching, 3-spoke leather sports steering wheel with shift paddles and white stitching. The rings round the dashboard instruments and some contrast components are also painted in white.

    Some of the other standard features are: softouch automatic gear programme, electric windows, air conditioning with automatic temperature control, panoramic roof with sunblind, electric power steering, heated seats, a lockable glove compartment, the smart sound system with five loudspeakers.

    Part of the optional feature include: smart audio system navigation/multimedia, black leather-effect instrument panel, BRABUS 3-spoke sports steering wheel with steering wheel gearshift and smart cradle for the iPhone® 3/3GS and 4/4S are available for the edition iceshine.

    This Iceshine edition of Smart will be limited to 1,800 vehicles. This model is based on the passion equipment line.

    Smart Fortwo Iceshie Edition pricing:

    Engine/power Engine type Engine capacity Price (€):
    smart fortwo edition iceshine coupé
    1.0 l (52 kW/71 hp) petrol mhd 3-cyl. in-line naturally aspirated engine 999 cc 14,490.00
    1.0 l (62 kW/84 hp) petrol 3-cyl. in-line turbo engine 999 cc 15,060.00
    smart fortwo edition iceshine cabrio
    1.0 l (52 kW/71 hp) petrol mhd 3-cyl. in-line naturally aspirated engine 999 cc 17,580.00
    1.0 l (62 kW/84 hp) petrol 3-cyl. in-line turbo engine 999 cc 18,150.00

    Source: Smart

  • 2013 Nissan Juke Nismo debuts at Le Mans

    2013-Nissan-Juke-Nismo-THUMB2013 Nissan Juke Nismo production model is going to make its world debuting appearance on the Nissan’s stand at the Le Mans 24. This particular vehicle is the first in a series of new Nismo models, which were all inspired company’s Japanese motorsport heritage and performance excellence.

    Next to Juke Nismo, Nissan will show their DeltaWing and Juke-R models as well. 2013 Juke Nismo has been already revealed under the form of a concept at Tokyo and Geneva international Motor Shows.

    Nissan’s Nismo product range offers uniqueness, distinctiveness and individuality. But this it not all, it will please you with sports handling, performance and excitement. The Juke Nismo combines the current Nissan Juke design with sports coupé lines and SUV stylin.

    2013 Nissan Juke Nismo
    2013 Nissan Juke Nismo

    In fact, it includes new aerodynamics kit, making the car even more efficient, dynamic and powerful. The new model is equipped with lower front and rear bumpers, wider wings and sill side skirts, and a modified grille and tailgate spoiler. Furthermore, the car sits on new stylish 18-inch alloy wheels with wider tyres.

    More importantly the Juke Nismo is empowered by a tuned-up version of its 1.6-litre direct injection turbocharged petrol engine. It features stiffened suspension settings, new steering modifications for sportier direct handling and enhanced traction control.

    The interior of the model is totally redesigned in terms of steering wheel, pedals, gauges, gear knob and door trims. They now further emphasize the SUV’s sportier personality. For instance, special suede-trimmed Nismo sports seats with red stitching were included.

    The Juke Nismo sales in Europe are due to start early January 2013. The model will be also available in Japan and USA at a later date. More details and specifications will be revelaed closer to launch.

    Source: Nissan

  • 2012 MINI Rocketman Concept at the Olympics

    2012-MINI-Rocketman-Concept-THUMB2012 MINI Rocketman Concept is especially prepared by the British premium car brand MINI for the Olympics and Paralympics that will take place in few months in London. The new edition has already appeared as a concept and debuted at the International Geneva Motor Show last year.

    The new design of the MINI Rocketman Concept is absolutely stunning! It combines fresh ideas for personal mobility in big cities while at the same time keeping the classical, unmistakably British design features.

    And if you are going to visit London during the Olympics, this extraordinary vehicle will be on show in the BMW Pavilion located close to the Olympic and Paralympic Village.

    The 3+1-seater has three doors and an exterior length of just over three meters. It has irresistible design, clever functionality, great agility and exceptional efficiency. The advanced technology included in the vehicle underpins a lifestyle-focused mobility solution. In other words the MINI is equipped for life in big cities.

    Further detail is that MINI Rocketman Concept’s spaceframe is made from carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic. This enables the lightweight construction of the car. If you go throughout the pictures of the car, you will see its innovative interior concept, which can accommodate three full-size seats.

    2012 MINI Rocketman Concept
    2012 MINI Rocketman Concept

    The exterior and interior color schemes of the Rocketman are influenced mainly by its British heritage. All that has been used in the creation are high-quality materials thanks to which the stylish details can be additionally emphasized. All in all, it embodies a typically British form of sporting elegance.

    The MINI runs on 18-inch light-alloy wheels, which have white polished areas and a metallic red accent. Matt Porcelain White paintwork is also utilized for the mirror caps, boot opener and surrounds for the radiator grille and headlights.

    The grille structure is made up entirely of MINI logos. It has a red metallic paint finish and contrasting white surround. A red strip emphasises the path of the hallmark MINI diagonal link between the wheel arch and door at the foot of the A-pillar.

    Another unique and special feature is the distinctive lighting design for the roof, which is full-surface glass roof. It has illuminated braces which recreate the look of Britain’s Union Jack flag. Even when the roof is not illuminated, the braces keep on shining in bright Porcelain White. In darkness, the integrated optical fibres provide a pleasant indirect illumination of the interior and a compelling night design visible from the outside. The roof’s transparent surfaces are bordered by a metallic red painted strip.

    The interior is influenced by the Union Jack-led colour concept as well. Sporting ambience and intricate details are the characteristics of the coupe of the car. The inner door panels and rear side sections are trimmed in dark blue nubuck leather, while the elliptical door rings are in white leather.

    The most distinctive element of the dashboard is the cockpit surface. The latter is bordered by a red bar and has a striking 3D effect. Its relief structure shows the name of every Summer Olympic Games host city.

    MINI Rocketman Concept catches the imagination thanks to its innovative technology and irresistible combination of driving fun and sustainability.

    Source: MINI