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  • LC Super Hybrid Technology to debut at 2012 Geneva Motor Show

    LC-Super-Hybrid-Technology-THUMBThe LC Super Hybrid Technology is conceived by Controlled Power Technologies (CPT) and the Advanced Lead-Acid Battery Consortium (ALABC) with the only aim to show significant CO2 reduction through the means of electric hybridisation at low voltages (12-48 volts) using the latest lead-carbon batteries.  The technology offers the potential of a mass market, petrol-powered, large family car with superb drivability, with spectacular performance and excellent 5.6 litres/100km (51mpg) fuel economy.

    The LC Super Hybrid Technology is going to be showcased for the first time at the 2012 Geneva International Motor Show. The low voltage (12 volts) technology has been created by UK-based Controlled Power Technologies in colaboration with the US-based Advanced Lead-Acid Battery Consortium.  The vehicle includes production-ready technology sold by CPT to Valeo.  Other international companies involved are AVL Schrick based in Austria and Germany, Mubea also from Germany, and the UK-based Provector.

    Volkswagen Passat 1.4-litre TSI model with LC Super Hybrid Technology
    Volkswagen Passat 1.4-litre TSI model with LC Super Hybrid Technology

    To be more precise, the technology is mounted on the series production 1.4-litre turbocharged VW Passat TSI model. Including the LC upgrade, the vehicle weighs around 1530kg which means that the technology adds the additional 79kg. Nevertheless, much of this additional mass including the test equipment would be eliminated in a production vehicle as well as the existing starter motor. The additional payload further underscores the excellent performance and drivability of the LC Super Hybrid demonstrator. Going straight to the point, the technologies features an electric supercharger, next generation belt-integrated starter generator with an advanced belt tensioning system, carbon improved valve regulated lead–acid (VRLA) batteries which avoid the need for super-capacitors, and higher gear ratios to reduce engine speed. Thus, this results in increase of power from 122 PS (90 kW) to 142 PS (104 kW) and torque from 200 Nm (148 lb-ft) to 275Nm (203 kW). The effects can be compared to the Passat’s bigger 1.8-litre TSI gasoline engine, which delivers 160 PS (118 kW) and 250 Nm (185 lb-ft), and hence the engine output of the LC Super Hybrid Technology is generally equivalent to vehicles in the 2-litre class. Additional advantage is that the vehicle also achieves near diesel levels of fuel economy, but with substantially lower production costs. Furthermore, the LC Super Hybrid delivers CO2 emissions of less than 130g/km compared with 140g/km for the baseline Passat 1.4-litre TSI.  This represents a reduction in CO2 emissions of 8 per cent. Another benefit is the great fuel economy of 5.6 litres/100km (51mpg), which is significant 11 per cent improvement when compared with 6.2 litres/100km (46mpg) for the 1.4-litre TSI.  Moreover, the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time is reduced by 2.5 seconds from 11.1 to 8.7 seconds compared with the 1.4-litre TSI. In addition, the demonstrator embraces low voltage switched reluctance (SR) motor-generators, which are not currently used by the automotive industry in mass production. The motors are constructed from steel, aluminium and copper and avoid the use of increasingly expensive rare earth materials.  The SR technology is licensed from Nidec Corporation of Japan, one of the world’s leading suppliers of electric motors.

    LC Super Hybrid Technology
    LC Super Hybrid Technology

    Furthermore, the improved lead-carbon battery design allows for an excellent charge and discharge characteristic, while the carbon-enhanced negative plate formulations enhance life under hybrid vehicle duty cycles. Additional improvements in the battery are achieved by careful attention to battery management and they also retain the long established end-of-life re-cycling benefits of lead-acid batteries. At 48 volts the low voltage LC Super Hybrid is expected to deliver more than the nominal 25 per cent improvement in CO2 emissions and fuel economy already achieved when compared with typical 2-litre naturally aspirated vehicles. In addition, the demonstrator develops low carbon ELC concept by incorporating CPT’s next generation SpeedStart stop-start system. The latter features intelligent torque and current control with enhanced stop-start capabilities. Moreover, it is world’s most powerful belt-integrated starter generator (B-ISG) which operates at 12 volts, and the first and only system based on the highly controllable switched reluctance motor-generator technology.

    LC Super Hybrid Technology
    LC Super Hybrid Technology

    LC Super Hybrid technology demonstrator is based on a VW Passat 1.4-litre TSI model and also features an electric supercharger which boosts the existing turbocharger, and CPT SpeedStart stop-start technology (top right) and Mubea belt tensioner.

    Source: Controlled Power Technologies

  • 2012 Bugatti Grand Sport Vitesse

    Bugatti has celebrated the world premiere of Grand Sport Vitesse in Geneva Molsheim. 2012 Bugatti Grand Sport Vitesse is the most powerful roadster of all time.

    It is powered by an 8.0-liter sixteen-cylinder quad-turbo engine with 1200HP (882 kW) at 6400 RPM and 1500Nm (1107 lb-ft) at 3000RPM. The official top speed is 415 km/h and 0 to 100 km/h is just 2.5 seconds. However, the Grand Sport is able to top 431 km/h.

    The Vitesse therefore also ensures the supreme range of excellent features one would expect of a Bugatti super sports car, from precise driving dynamics to extraordinary acceleration and braking.

    “The rapid success of the Super Sport convinced us to increase the performance of the Bugatti roadster. Once again our engineers worked hard to demonstrate that Bugatti is able to constantly redefine the boundaries of what is technically feasible,” commented Bugatti President Wolfgang Dürheimer.

    “We did our utmost to transfer the achievements of the Super Sport over to the Grand Sport, thereby turning open-top driving itself into an extraordinary experience at high speed.”, he finished.

    2012 Bugatti Grand Sport Vitesse
    2012 Bugatti Grand Sport Vitesse

    Source: Bugatti

  • Gemballa at the Geneva Motor Show: Tornado Cayenne II, Mistrale Panamera and Racing MP4-12C GT3

    Gemballa are ready to introduce several pimped cars at the Geneva Motor Show, next week. Actually, they will introduce three vehicles – Tornado Cayenne II, Mistrale Panamera and Racing MP4-12C GT3. The SUV and the sports saloon are extremely updated, while the McLaren features minor changes and a lot of badges.

    Gemballa Tornado is based on Porsche Cayenne II and features full body kit including new front and rear bumpers, wheel arch extensions and a pair of side skirts. There are also two performance packages boosting the mighty twin-turbocharged V8 to 700HP and 1000Nm. There are also Brembo brake system including 420mm vented discs with 6-piston calipers at the front and 405mm with 4-piston at the rear. The SUV stands on a set of huge rims – 10J x 22” with 295/35 ZR22 at the front and 12J x 22” with 335/30 ZR22 tires at the rear. Only 30 units are planned to be produced.

    The Mistrale Panamera is as insane as the Tornado or maybe more. It also features complete body kit, but this time almost everything is reworked even the rear lights. It also rides on the same 22” multi-spoke lightweight foged wheels, but the brake system is slightly smaller – 411 mm discs at the front axle with 6-piston calipers and 380mm discs at the rear axle with 4-piston calipers. The performance packages are the same – Stage I – 610PS and 850Nm and Stage II – 700PS and 1000Nm. The interior is also entirely reworked – there is Alcantara all over the place – dashboard, steering wheel, seats, etc.

    Last is the Racing MP4-12C GT3 coming with a new paint and a lot of badges. The only exterior modification is the vented front hood, because a GT3 car is expected to be perfect, especially, when it is priced from £310 000. However, because of the mods, Gembala Racing MP4-12C GT3 is expected to be more expensive.

    Gemballa Racing McLaren MP4-12C GT3
    Gemballa Racing McLaren MP4-12C GT3

    Source: Gemballa

  • Hyundai i-Oniq Concept Car

    Hyundai has released the first image of the new i-Oniq concept car, which will showcase feature technology and design. Essentially, it is an electric sports hatchback with a range-extending petrol engine. The idea was well appreciated, because only electric vehicles are not so useful as they appear.

    The i-Oniq is intended to convey the latest thinking from Hyundai’s designers and engineers. The car features gentle feature lines and muscular surface treatment, conveying both premium and sporty qualities evident in both the exterior and interior of the car. Other highlights include penthouse roof and LED headlights.

    The vehicle measures 4.4 metres in length meaning a lot of inner space for four occupants. High-tech equipment in the driver interface and controls reflects contemporary and future premium consumer electronics technology.

    The drivetrain includes a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine, which is mated via a generator, to a lithium ion electric motor which produces 109PS (80 kW). In electric-only mode, i-oniq has a range of 120 km, but the petrol engine extends the range up to 700 km, producing just 45 g/km of CO2 in the process.

    “The i-oniq concept has been created to reflect the new thinking that runs through the Hyundai brand.  It has a bold design, inside and out, that provokes contemplation on the future of automotive possibilities, and a powertrain that highlights one of the ways in which we could power future products – wrapped in a package that exudes premium qualities.”, commented Senior Vice President and COO of Hyundai Motor Europe, Allan Rushforth.

    The Hyundai i-Oniq concept car will be exhibited at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, next week.

    Hyundai i-Ioniq Concept Car
    Hyundai i-Oniq Concept Car


    Source: Hyundai

  • GS Exclusive Maserati 4200 Evo

    GS-Maserati-4200-thumbThis is a Maserati 4200 GT Cambiocorsa dipped in the orange blood of a Lamborghini Gallardo. That is how G&S Exclusive, a company based in Albstadt, southern Germany, chose to customize their version of the 4200 called the “Evo”. They also added some styling and restyling in a rather surprising way.

    A lower, new front bumper houses a standard Maserati Coupe GranTurismo grille. To assure us of their respect towards the Maserati brand, G&S Exclusive have also retained the trident emblem, fog lights, parking lights and blinkers. The hood however, has been replaced with a new, more curvy one. Despite being called the “Evo”, this Maserati actually has the back end of a 3200 GT, the car that was replaced by the 4200 back in 2001. According to G&S, many people expressed discontent from the new hind of the 4200 which was deemed characterless and less sophisticated. This one here also has a completely new rear bumper with a flamboyant diffuser. Alternatively, one can go for the defuserless version of that bumper but then, the car might lose its overall road-scraping feel. A pair of G&S sideskirts complete the Evo‘s exterior kit.

    G&S Exclusive Maserati 4200 Evo
    G&S Exclusive Maserati 4200 Evo

    Two 85 millimetre double-ended exhaust pipes stick out from the cutaways of the rear bumper. That is how we know that the G&S people have fitted a Capristo exhaust system (EDS & MSD) with valve control, back pressure control and remote control functionality. Our guess is however, that one can figure this one out by simply hearing the amplified rumble of the V8 that comes out from the back. If you are planning to take this car out of Germany, than you can also go for the main exhaust silencer replacement pipes option. Other than that, Germany’s officials (TÜV) wont have it.

    The car’s suspension has been chucked out and a new KW Variant 3 sports setup has been introduced. That means compression and rebound adjustment functionality (optionally with added hydraulic height adjustment). Needless to say that two pairs of 20 inch OZ “Ultraleggera” (ultralight) adorn the 4200 GT Evo from the outside – 8.5 x 20 and 10 x 20 front and back respectively. Dunlops, wrapped around the sporty designed wheels, size up to 235/30ZR20 on the leading axle and 275/25ZR20 on the driving axle. As an alternative, G&S offers three-part OZ Granturismo light alloy wheels with forged wheel stars in the same size mentioned above. In order to fit such monstrous size figures under the wheel arches (there are 20mm wheel spacers on each wheel!), the mud guards had to be extended by 10 mm on both front sides and 20 mm both of the rear sides.

    Source: G&S Exclusive

  • Volkswagen Up! BlueMotion

    VW-Up-2012-thumbOne of Volkswagen‘s most practical and fuel-sipping cars is now available with the best possible efficiency setup. Introducing the Up! BlueMotion with two engine variants. However, to prevent the scales from tipping over too much to the “blue” side of things, the company has also introduced two exciting new options – A panoramic sliding sunroof and a thing called the “leatherette pack”

    First stop, the engines. We have two 1.0 liter engines that develop 60 bhp and 75 bhp respectively. They already sound frugal enough but now with the introduction of the BlueMotion package it is claimed that they both have a combined fuel consumption of 4,1 l/100 km and 4,2 l/100km. Really? A tenth of a liter more overall consumption for the prize of 15 horsepowers? Who is going to buy the less-powerful version? It’s the same story with the CO2 emissions – 96 g (60 PS) and 98 g (75 PS).

    The BlueMotion technology manifests itself through the presence of a Stop/Start function, a battery regeneration system and also, both of the cars are more slippery by being 15 mm lower than usual. It’s not rocket science, I’ll have to admit. But the combination of all these tweaks gives an astonishing end result. And the price for this whole BluePackage is only 400 euros ($537).

    The panoramic sliding sunroof on the other side, with its electric adjust ability and overall flexibility allows some fresh air to come in and clear your head from all those economy figures. It is a playful, ambiance inducing feature that costs an additional sum of 880 euros ($1183). In the mean time, the leatherette package provides a leather steering wheel, hand brake lever and gear shift grip also in leather and heated front seats in leather look with white decorative stitching – 760 euros ($1022) if one has the move up! trim line or above.

    Volkswagen Up! (2012)
    Volkswagen Up! (2012)

    Source: Volkswagen

  • Ferrari F12berlinetta

    Ferrari has announced the F12berlinetta, which is the successor of 599 GTB Fiorano. It is also the fastest car Ferrari has ever built. Its new exceptional V12 engine combined with innovative design that redefines classic themes along with extreme aerodynamics. The vehicle is in preparation for its official debut at the Geneva International Motor Show.

    The car is finished in an attractive new Rosso Berlinetta three-layer colour. It represents the very cutting-edge of mid-front-engined sports cars. The F12berlinetta is not only the most powerful Ferrari, but it is extremely efficient – in terms of mechanical, combustion and fluid-dynamics efficiency. Combined with advanced vehicle architecture, aerodynamics, components and electronic controls, guarantee unsurpassed driving involvement whatever the road or track.

    The ase has been shortened and the engine, dashboard and seats have been lowered in the chassis, while the new layout of the rear suspension and gearbox enabled Ferrari’s engineers to make the rear volume of the car smaller. The overall result is fantastic looking compact car with a lower centre of gravity that is further back in the chassis, and a level of aerodynamic efficiency that sets new standards.

    An all-new spaceframe chassis and bodyshell using 12 different kinds of alloys, some of which have been used here for the first time in the automotive sector, and employing new assembly and joining techniques. The result is 20% increase in structural rigidity while reducing weight to just 1525 kg, which is 70 kg less than GTB. The balance between axles is 46:54.

    The F12berlinetta is powered by a 6.3 liter 65° V12 engine with incredible 740PS (544 kW) and 690Nm (509 lb-ft). The engine is mated to the F1 dual-clutch transmission, which has closer gear ratios developed specifically for this car’s performance. The power-to-weight ratio is sensational – 2.1 kg/PS. Furthermore, the fuel consumption has been reduced by 30%, with CO2 emissions of just 350 g/km.

    The performance is extreme – 0-100 km/h – 3.1 seconds and 0-200 km/h in 8.5 seconds. The car also laps Fiorano in 1 minute and 23 seconds dead. Benchmark performance and maximum driving involvement are guaranteed by immediate turn-in, with smaller steering wheel angles, and increased cornering speed. Stopping distances have also been drastically reduced.

    Ferrari F12berlinetta
    Ferrari F12berlinetta

    The car comes with latest generation CCM3 (carbon-ceramic brakes) and the evolution of the SCM-E (magnetorheological suspension control system). It also features E-Diff, ESP Premium, F1-Trac, and high-performance ABS, which are all fully integrated.

    The downforce has been boosted by 76% (123 kg at 200 km/h) while drag has been significantly reduced – the Cd is just 0.299. These results come courtesy of two new solutions. The first of these is the Aero Bridge which uses the bonnet to generate downforce by channelling air away from the upper part of the car to its flanks where it interacts with the wake from the wheel wells to decrease drag. The second is Active Brake Cooling, a system that opens guide vanes to the brake cooling ducts only at high operating temperatures, again reducing drag.

    The all-new Frau leather interior highlights the balance of advanced technology and sophisticated, handcrafted detailing. In the middle of the light and lean dashboard, there are new carbon fibre and aluminium air vents clearly inspired by the aeronautic field. The cabin has been optimised to ensure maximum usability of the interior space with additional luggage capacity behind the seats, which can also be easily reached thanks to the large aperture offered by the tail-gate. With the cockpit designed around the driver, typical of all Ferraris, the Human Machine Interface approach is emphasised, grouping all the major commands within immediate reach to guarantee maximum ergonomics for the most involving driving experience.

    There is question that this is our new favourite Ferrari.
    Check out the full specs below!

    Ferrari F12berlinetta Interior
    Ferrari F12berlinetta Interior

    TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

    Engine
    Type
    Total displacement
    Maximum power output
    Maximum torque
    65-degree V12
    6262 cc
    740 CV at 8500 rpm
    690 Nm at 6000 rpm
    Dimensions and weight
    Length                                                Width
    Height
    Dry weight*
    Weight distribution
    Weight-power ratio
    4618 mm
    1942 mm
    1273 mm
    1525 kg
    46% front, 54% rear
    2.1 kg/CV
    Performance
    Maximum speed
    0-100 km/h
    over 340 km/h
    3.1 seconds
    Fuel consumption and emissions (ECE + EUDC combined cycle)
    Consumption**
    CO2**
    15l/100 km
    350 g/km

    *With lightweight options

    **With HELE System

    Source: Ferrari

  • 2012 Toyota Avensis T Spirit Tourer D4-D – 1456 km on a single tank of fuel

    Joe Clifford and Andrew Biddle managed to go 1456 km (905 miles) on a single tank of fuel in a brand new Toyota Avensis T-Spirit Tourer D4-D. This is the distance from one end of Britain to the other. This was a long distance economy challenge taken up by two journalists for Banzai magazine.

    The superb efficiency of the engine and 6-speed manual transmission, and the pair’s eco-conscious driving style helped the Avensis to achieve whopping 71.5 mpg, which is just 3.95 litres per 100 km. This is just a shade less than the car’s official extra urban consumption figure.

    The journey included a stop-off at Toyota’s Burnaston plant – home of the Avensis – where they saw first hand the attention to quality and the commitment to the environment throughout the manufacturing process.

    At the beginning, the two drivers filled the Avensis’s 60 litre tank and programmed their route on the car’s Touch & Go navigation system. The on-board computer calculated a driving range of just 580 miles, but that limit was comprehensively smashed: the car covered more than 170 miles on the last bar of the fuel gauge alone, in spite of having to tackle mountain climbs, pouring rain and high winds.

    “The Toyota shrugged off the mileage with ease and showed such frugality for fuel that we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it highly. That it is also comfortable, roomy, tax-friendly for business users, bursting with kit and beautifully built are simply bonuses.”, said Joe Clifford.

    2012 Toyota Avensis T Spirit Tourer D4-D - 1456 km
    2012 Toyota Avensis T Spirit Tourer D4-D – 1456 km

    Source: Toyota

  • The Exceptional Vilner BMW F10

    Vilner-BMW-F10-THUMBVilner BMW F10 is the latest project that has just been finished by the exceptional Bulgarian tuning company Vilner. The car already has got the perfect forms, design and technical characteristics. What makes it unique however, is the astonishing interior design, which is everything that one could possibly want. In details, the interior is in white and carries a well outspoken personality. This is achieved due to the high-quality materials used: white leather for the seats and for the internal par of the doors, the lower part of the panel; and black Alcantara for the attic and the inner part of the seats. The leading motive is the red line, which is featured in key parts of the coupe and makes a great accent on the gearshift and the steering wheel. More importantly, the latter is entirely recreated and now has new more ergonomically improved design. This exceptional work from the Vilner Tuning Company is once again a proof of the quality of work they are delivering. The result after this modification is an interior, which can be a proud rival to any new conceptual vehicle. What Vilner has done here is to bring even more energy, style and appeal to the already amazing BMW F10.

    Vilner BMW F10
    Vilner BMW F10
    Vilner BMW F10 Interior
    Vilner BMW F10 Interior

    Source: Vilner

  • Peugeot at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show

    Peugeot 208 GTi Concept ThumbAt 2012 Geneva Motor Show, Peugeot is going to unveil five new models: the new 2012 Peugeot 208, which is expected to reaffirm its strong market positioning; three HYbrid4 diesel-electric hybrid models; and the new 2012Peugeot 4008.

    Undeniably the 208 model has already become an icon. From it has been sold more than 15 million examples over 30 years. Now, the new 2012 Peugeot 208 reinvents the dynamics of its segment with the goal to regain leadership of its category in Europe. The new version is architecturally regenerated and combines compactness (length: 3.96 m), reduced weight and enhanced passenger space. In addition it is going to be offered in different body styles – with three or five doors. It is characterized by completely redefining the position of the instruments and controls, the intuitive connectivity of its large touch screen function and a refined interior. Furthermore, the car is designed to be highly-efficient, economical and yet powerful. This is achieved through the extended e-HDi range and the first applications of an all- new family of three-cylinder petrol engines. At last, due to a new roadholding combination reflecting all the expertise of the brand, in it is featured active and passive safety, and innovative equipment such as a Park Assist function. The new 208 will be launched in early spring this year.

    2012 Peugeot 208
    2012 Peugeot 208

    Next to the premiere of the new 2012 Peugeot 208, the brand is also going to present for the first time two concept cars: XY Concept and GTi Concept, which are based on the 2012 Peugeot 208 3-door version. The two concept vehicles carry strong but distinct personalities: the XY Concept is intended for urban citizens who appreciate versatility and refinement, whereas the GTi Concept is the remake of a legend. Both cars have distinctive body colors which are achieved through an exclusive process, perfectly integrated stylistic and aerodynamic components, with strong and richly equipped interior environments.

    Peugeot 208 GTi Concept
    Peugeot 208 GTi Concept
    Peugeot 208 XY Concept
    Peugeot 208 XY Concept

    HYbrid4 technology is one of Peugeot’s greatest achievements in terms of innovation and environmentalism. The brand is continuing to reduce the CO2 emissions of the vehicles in its ranges. For instance, the average emissions of the Peugeot models stood at 129g/km in 2011, which is already below the target threshold of 130g/km set by the European Commission for 2015. Furthermore, Peugeot adopts a philosophy which aims the continuous improvement of the internal combustion engine (achieved through downsizing, e-HDi Stop & Start Systems), and typified by the introduction of a new generation of engines (such as the new EB family of petrol engines – three-cylinder 1.0l and 1.2l). More importantly, Peugeot’s technological innovation is the world-first diesel-electric hybrid – the HYbrid4 technology. Thus, the brand is now offering a new range reaching new levels of environmental performance and driving sensation. In details, the unique technology is a hybridation of a 2.0 HDi FAP 163 hp (120 kW) diesel engine driving the front wheels with an electric motor of 37 hp (27 kW) integrated within the rear axle. This of course, results in the combination of a new driving sensation, which offer maximum combined power output of 200 hp (147 kW), “ZEV” (Zero Emissions Vehicle) mode, and fuel consumption 35% lower than that of a vehicle fitted with an internal combustion engine of comparable power and size. In Geneva are going to be showcased three models, demonstrating the potential for application of the HYbrid4 drivetrain across the range: the Peugeot 3008 HYbrid4, which is already on sale; 2012 Peugeot 508 RXH, launched soon after the first mentioned, which is also a diesel-electric hybrid but with distinctive and prestige features that offer original view of the world of all-road vehicles with enhanced driving attributes; and at last the Peugeot 508 HYbrid4 saloon, which is going to debut and will be available in dealerships in the summer this year.

    2012 Peugeot 508 RHX
    2012 Peugeot 508 RHX

    The new 2012 Peugeot 4008, is going to be another debut vehicle at the Geneva Motor Show. It carries a distinctive appearance and in addition to this its’ 4×4 SUV capabilities are make it even more attractive. It is born of the PSA Peugeot Citroёn – Mitsubishi partnership, and thus incorporates appealing, strong, identifiable Peugeot personality. The adventurous character of the vehicle is visible at first sight, due to the emphasis of the grille of vertical design, with body sill protectors and functional wheel arch extension trims. The interior of the new 4008 is improved by the choice of materials and the richness of the equipment. It includes glass panoramic roof, which gives the occupants an exclusive ambience. In addition to this it is compact (length: 4.34 m) and has good maneuverability. It is equally suited to everyday use and leisure pursuits. The 4008’s range has the choice of four engines (two diesel and two petrol) and comes with selectable electronic 4×4 transmission. More importantly, it has achieved a record of low CO2 emissions in its category, and thus is capable of operating economically and efficiently in a multitude of different environments and locations.

    2012 Peugeot 4008 4x4
    2012 Peugeot 4008 4×4

    Source: Peugeot

  • 2012 Dodge Charger Pursuit

    2012 dodge charger pursuitThe new 2012 Dodge Charger Pursuit is designed and engineered to be a high-performance police vehicle. It is in two models: V-6 and V-8, which will set new levels of performance during the Michigan State Police’s (MSP) 2012 Police Vehicle Evaluation tests. The V-8 model is powered by 5.7-liter HEMI engine, which delivers best-in-class 370 hp (272 kW) and therefore could deliver the fastest lap time ever recorded (1:33.70) during MSP’s 2012 Police Vehicle Evaluation tests last fall. In addition, Charger Pursuit V-6 models with their the 292 hp (215 kW) showcased their world-class performance and precision with the fastest average lap times for naturally aspirated (1:37.71) and E-85 capable (1:37.57) six-cylinder powered police cars.

    The 2012 Dodge Charger Pursuit V-8 also delivered the police sedan segment’s fastest acceleration times and covered the 0 to 60 mph for just 5.83 seconds.

    2012 Dodge Charger Pursuit
    The model is also improved in terms of including world-class levels of technology, enhanced safety, handling and efficient power. This of course was possible, thank to Mopar® which teamed up with industry-equipment leaders to develop six factory-installed police packages.

    The aim is the design of the car to provide law-enforcement officers with the best combination of tactical equipment and performance.

    Some of these police-equipment packages include:

    Base Prep Police Package, which features front and rear wire harness, power distribution center, siren speaker with bracket, trunk tray and trunk cooling fan;

    Patrol Package 1, which includes police floor console, front-corner LED lamps, rear-corner LED lamps, front and rear wire harness, power-distribution center, siren speaker with bracket, trunk tray and trunk cooling fan;

    Patrol Package 2, which includes police floor console, push bumper, front and rear wire harness, power-distribution center, siren speaker and bracket, trunk tray and trunk cooling fan;

    Patrol Package 3, which includes push bumper, police floor console, front corner LED lamps, rear corner LED lamps, front and rear wire harness, power distribution center, siren speaker with bracket, trunk tray and trunk accessory cooling fan;

    Slick Top Police Package 1: includes police floor console, front and rear wire harness, power-distribution center, siren speaker with bracket, trunk tray and trunk cooling fan;

    Slick Top Police Package 2, which includes front-corner LED lamps, rear-corner LED lamps, front and rear wire harness, power distribution center, siren speaker with bracket, trunk tray and trunk cooling fan. Adding more to the six packages, there are also available for order 24 Mopar tactical accessories, which include light bars, LED lighting systems, push bumper, CAN-control siren system and more.
    Furthermore 2012 Dodge Charger Pursuit is also equipped with Chrysler Group’s second-generation large car rear-wheel-drive architecture with performance-tuned suspension, load-leveling Nivomat shocks, heavy-duty anti-lock vented-disc brakes (ABS), front- and rear-stabilizer bars, 18-inch performance tires on steel wheels and two-mode police-specific Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

    Moreover, the model also features a mobile-command interior which has Vehicle Systems Interface Module for easy equipment integration, heavy-duty police-duty front seats and column-mounted shifter with Auto Stick. Additionally, it also includes uncompromising safety and security equipment: standard advanced multi-stage driver and front-passenger air bags, seat-mounted side-thorax air bags, supplemental side-curtain air bags for front and rear outboard passengers and driver’s knee bag.

    Source: Dodge

  • 2012 Subaru XV with Five Star Rating in Euro NCAP Safety Test [VIDEO]

    2012-Subaru-XV-ThumbSubaru brand has just announced that its 2012 Subaru XV is awarded with the highest possible rating – five-star – by Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) for its overall safety performance. This year’s rating reflects the performance of the XV according to the latest requirements set by Euro NCAP’s. Additional assessment system has been applied since 2009 by Euro NCAP which evaluates “Adult Occupant Protection”, “Child Occupant Protection”, “Pedestrian Protection” and “Safety Assist”. Another highlight here us that five star rating is being awarded to the Subaru XV model for the second consecutive year.

    Subaru further improved its unique “ring-shaped reinforcement frame body” by optimizing the impact energy relay structure. The use of high tensile steel was also increased on the new Subaru XV. All these features actually allow the reduction in weight, higher collision safety performance to impacts from all directions, and improved passenger safety. Furthermore, additional airbags have been installed in the front seats, driver’s knee, and sides. The above features are topped with VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control), which now is standard equipment on all models. The new 2012 Subaru XV has already received excellent reviews for its safety performance, SUV functionality and stylish design.

    2012 Subaru XV
    2012 Subaru XV

    Moreover, Subaru aims to pursue all-around safety with the continuation of its’ active, passive and pre-crash safety technologies. In details, active safety includes safety enhanced by driveability and risk-avoidance technologies; passive safety: safety enhanced by collision safety systems; and at last the pre-crash safety featured safety enhanced by advanced driving assist technologies such as warning alerts and autonomous emergency braking

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tuj4mfdroro

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Subaru