Automobiles Review – Page 921 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

Citroen and the 2012 Geneva Motor Show

At the 2012 Geneva Motor Show Citroen will showcase a wide range of their new and stylish models. Some of the vehicle will make their world wide debut, while other will be already known by the public. The visitor will see the complete DS line, along with a new DS4 Racing concept and new special editions – DS4 and DS5 Paris Rendez-Vous and DS3 Racing S. Loeb. More over, this year Citroen brand is putting highlight on the improvement of the ecological performance of its vehicles through the reduced average CO₂ emissions of its range. In particular, it is reduced with 5g/km in a year due to the use of e-HDi micro-hybrid, full electric and full hybrid diesel technology.

First of all Citroen will display all three models in the DS line, starting with the New DS5. The new DS offers bold and creative design, premium quality and innovative technologies. As with DS3 Racing, Citroen engineers have taken their multi WRC winning expertise and put their unique stamp on Citroen DS4. This resulted in the creation of the new concept, which will make its debut in Geneva. Citroen DS4 Racing Concept features new carbon fibre components including an air diffuser, front splitter and wheel arch extensions. It is powered by 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine, which develops up to 256 bhp (188 kW). This exclusive performance is accompanied by CO₂ emissions of just 155g/km! In addition, the engineers of the car have transformed the chassis and running gear with the utmost precision. Now, the chassis is lowered by 35mm and the track widened by 55mm at the front and 75mm at the rear. The braking system boasts fixed four-piston callipers at the front together with special 380mm diameter discs. The concept is also fitted with larger diameter 19-inch wheels and 235/40 tyres. Another grabbing-attention feature in the new concept is the textured-effect matt grey paint, which catches the light to further enhance the lines of the car. Additional exterior refinements include a two-tone roof and two-tone wheels with a special DS4 Racing design.

Citroen DS3 Ultra Prestige is the next model from the DS line, which will be showcased in Geneva. It represents a confident foray into the world of luxury, combining sophisticated style, premium specification and distinctive personality. It is powered by a punchy THP 155 petrol engine or a fuel and CO₂ efficient e-HDi 110 diesel with Stop & Start.

CitroEn is introducing two limited edition versions of DS4 and DS5, which are under the title Paris Rendez-Vous limited edition. The models include pearlescent white paint, chrome-finished door mirrors, chrome trim and black diamond-effect 19-inch alloy wheels. Moreover, the club leather interior is finished with the DS line’s signature ‘watchstrap’ design in a warm brown colour with striking blue overstitching. The leather upholstery is of high-quality and the club leather finish on the dashboard of the Citroen DS4 Paris Rendez-Vous is in the same brown colour to match the seat upholstery.

Another Geneva debut, Citroen DS3 Racing S. Loeb, is very special edition of series and limited in number as well. There are only 200 examples of it. This edition is based on the DS3 Racing and is fitted with Citroen’s MyWay navigation system, and features a distinctive use of colours and materials. The body is painted in matt black colour with textured effect. This special finish is not only robust, but also highlights the lines of the car. The roof, door mirrors, grille, dashboard fascia and gearstick base all feature a contrasting shade of red. The new model also features special decals and, as an exclusive limited series, sports a numbered identification plate on the roof lining.

Citroen DS5 Hybrid4 is the first Citroen with a full hybrid drivetrain. It combines an HDi diesel engine with electric power delivering a performance of up to 200 bhp (147 kW). It is a four wheel drive with zero emissions for urban use and an acceleration boost function in the ‘Sport’ setting – with low CO₂ emissions from just 99 g/km.

A premiere is making the new Citroen C4 Aircross which is is a fresh take on the compact SUV and brings together contemporary styling and technological innovation. Citroen C4 Aircross offers the following features: strong and elegant styling, which clearly draws on Citroën’s design DNA; flexible transmission system with three manually selected settings; 2WD, 4WD & LOCK; just 119g/km of CO₂ with the HDi 115 version in two-wheel drive form; compact exterior dimensions (4.34m long), combined with a spacious interior & a 442-litre boot; all the driving pleasure and serene comfort of a traditional Citroën hatchback; raised driving position with a panoramic glass roof; wide range of equipment, including NaviDrive satnav with touch screen & reversing camera, hands-free access & ignition, a Rockford Hi-Fi system & an integrated server for storing music. On display will be the exclusive Citroen C4 Aircross with all-new Vapor Gray frosted-texture paint. The roof bars, door mirrors and door handles are all chrome-finished to match the new colour, while the two-tone diamond-effect wheel rims sport the same Vapor Gray tone as the interior.

A legend is going to be on display too: the compact, economical and ecological Citroen C1 city car, which now has been refreshed for the year of 2012. The new version of Citroen C1 offers CO₂ emissions from just 99g/km, LED daytime running lights, a CD audio system with Citroën’s integrated Connecting Box (Bluetooth® system with USB socket) and an Electronic Gearbox System with steering-mounted paddles.

Citroen is also showcasing the production version of Citroen C3 Red Block, which debuted in concept form at 2011 Geneva Motor Show. The model includes improved dynamics and more muscular look. The C3 Red Block comes with more dynamic suspension settings – roughly 50% more stiffness and nearly 25% less roll – with the steering adapted to the new suspension settings for a more defined road feel. The body height has been lowered 25mm and ESP has been fitted as standard for more verve and control. Citroen C3 Red Block is available with three engines: VTi 120 petrol, e-HDi 90 diesel and e-HDi 100 diesel, mated to manual gearboxes. The body of the vehicle is painted with a Shark Blue body paint which is combined with a bumper strip in the same colour. There are also other body colours available: Banquise White, Aluminium Grey, Manitoba Grey and Obsidian Black – they all come with a gloss black bumper strip. The door mirrors and door handles are finished in Obsidian black. The 17-inch diamond-effect wheels are fitted with 205/40 tyres. The interior of the Citroen C3 Red Block features a gloss black dashboard fascia, while the pedals and front door surrounds are aluminium. The diameter of the steering wheel has been reduced by 20mm to further enhance driving pleasure with a tighter feel. The special red leather seat upholstery is optional.

At last, at the Geneva Motor Show will be presented the refreshed Citroen Berlingo Multispace. It includes new styling whith wider, more defined grille, a new chevron badge and a new headlight arrangement. The indicators, for example, are now to the side of the main light units and are underlined by blue segments for an even stronger personality. The lower part of the grille can be fitted with static cornering lights integrated with the fog lights and LEDs provide an eye-catching daytime lighting signature. A customised Onyx Black trim can be seen on the top of the front bumper, side mirrors, side rubbing strips and rear number plate moulding. The interior includes colours and materials that have been revised on all levels of trim. New Berlingo Multispace is also available with two new body colours: Nocciola and Belle Ile Blue. This is one of the most robust, practical and spacious models in its segment. It specified with up to seven independent seats. Moreover, model’s generous interior dimensions can be fitted with the Modutop®: a glazed roof with multiple stowage compartments, a dual access boot, individually controlled ventilation and additional lighting for passengers in the rear. The new Berlingo Multispace is available different types of engines, including the e-HDi micro-hybrid powertrain with Stop & Start and a six-speed automated manual gearbox. The e-HDi 90 Airdream EGS6 version delivers CO₂ emissions of just 125g/km.

Source: Citroen

February 28, 2012

LUMMA Design Porsche CLR 9 S to debut at 2012 Geneva Motor Show

The tuning company LUMMA Design is going to preview what they have done on the Porsche Carrera 911 S for the first time. The project carries the name CLR 9 S and has aerodynamic package, beautifully designs light alloy rims and an attractive interior. Of course, the tuners have put a lot of attention on the details and this was made with the help of their CLR aerodynamic components. In particular, the front spoiler lip with integrated cup-spoiler sword is now combined with the CLR-design front grill frame. This undoubtedly this gives the LUMMA Design CLR 9 S very unique appearance. In addition, there have been included stylish headlights which add even further to the design. The overhanging fenders at the rear of the CLR 9 S are additionally emphasized by a three-part spoiler lip, which also provides increased down force at the rear axle. This results in improvement of the handling at high speeds.

With the installation of LUMMA Design four-pipe sports muffler made from a high-quality V4A-alloy and the matching tailpipes with a 90-millimeter diameter, the vehicle is now even sportier. The tailpipes, with their unique “pipe-in-pipe” design are also available individually, just like the CLR 9 S aerodynamic components, which are produced in OEM quality. Additionally, the LUMMA Design rear sports muffler is also available with valve control, which produces the gritty flat engine sound in an even more dynamic fashion. Of course, all this comes with an attractive exterior racing stripe kit. Furthermore, the Porsche sits on the unique LUMMA Edition “GS/R” Edition Sports Rims which are forged light-metal alloy rims. With a weight of just 9.4 kilograms in the 9 x 20” version and 11.4 kilograms in the 12 x 20” variant, the “GS/R” forged rims are truly lightweight. They are also available in tow colors – silver and black. The wheels of the LUMMA Design CLR 9 S measure 9 x 20 inches at the front and 12 x 20 inches at the drive shaft. High-performance tires measuring 245/30-20 and 305/30-20 are installed at the front and rear respectively.

LUMMA Design has used of course only high-quality materials combined with the finest craftsmanship in the transformation of the interior. In details it is full leather interior: a mix of red leather and black alcantara. The two-color finish in leather and alcantara can be seen on the dashboard, sports steering wheel, roof, door panels, central console and the many other interior features. Everything is wrapped in leather and alcantara, except for the aluminum pedals and the white instrument panel. In addition, the range of sophisticated accessories from LUMMA Design is also exquisite: the door sill panels are made of aluminum, there is also include leather-trimmed velour mats and interior panels in embossed carbon leather. The aluminum pedals are fitted with rubber studs, rendering them highly slip-resistant. The steering wheel on the other hand is all covered with alcantara.

With the worldwide debut of the LUMMA Porsche CLR 9 S at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, LUMMA Design will present a completely modified Porsche Carrera 911 while remaining true to the original Porsche design.

Source: LUMMA Design

February 28, 2012

Nissan Hi-Cross Concept Teaser [VIDEO]

Nissan is the one of the biggest leaders in the production of crossovers all over the world. What we are going to see from the brand at this year’s Geneva Motor Show is something spectacular.

There, we are promised to preview how Nissan explores new ideas and manifest them in reality. In addition, the brand is looking for an expansion in terms of award-winning range segment, and this is exactly where the attention will be put on the show in Geneva. A sneak peak of what is going to come and what we are going to see on 6^th of March is the exclusively released video teaser of the new Nissan Hi-Cross Concept vehicle. The video is so creatively made that after watching it you’ll be “hungry” to know more about the upcoming concept car. Of course, any other details than these are scarcity at the moment so we have to wait till the show next week.

So, let’s have a preview of the new Nissan Hi-Cross Concept:

httpv://youtu.be/yA1IOFx5S8A

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Nissan

February 28, 2012

Prior Mercedes-Benz CL kit – “Black Edition”

Last time we checked, Prior were having some fun with the Mercedes-Benz Roadster SL by sticking their bespoke “Black Edition” body kit on it. Now it is the CL‘s turn to go under the careful knife of Prior Design. The body kit is suitable for all models of the C216 series.

Now, the luxury class coupe is bulky and majestic thanks to a wide body kit that consists of new front mud wings, side skirts, a roof scoop that looks like a mohawk hairpiece and front and rear bumpers. The matte black finish of the car can do nothing but help the aggressive appearance that has taken over baby coupe. At the front we have 10×20” alloy wheels, while at the back an even wider pair (13×20”). They complement the overall look of the kit and also suffocate their sheer vastness.

The Prior Design products are manufactured from Duraflex. Through its excellent surface structure and high level of stability, this high grade material enables easy and cost-effective lacquering. Everything is easy to install yet Prior are willing to help you with the process as well as take orders for a few special items and carbon fiber goodies

Source: Prior design

February 28, 2012

TechART and the New Porsche 911

Last week it was Vorsteiner who announced a Geneva Porsche Carrera and now we’ve got news from TechArt. They also have a program for the 911 but this one seems to be having a bad case of jaundice. Being that yellow, the car is certain to be noticed at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. It would be like staring into the sun. Just don’t squint your eyes too much or you won’t be able to see what’s new.

The TechArt 911 has a unique front bumper with an integrated splitter and two fins on the lower air intakes that probably don’t do much but they look cool. At the back, there seems to be too much downforce oriented features – a fixed rear spoiler, a rear wing, a diffuser? Other additions include the sideskirts, some new trim panels for the headlights and new mirror encasings.

Provided also are the TechArt Formula 5-spoke light alloy wheels in 20– and 21-inch sizes specially designed for the Carrera and Carrera S. Alternatively one can opt for the TechArt Formula III type of wheels which come in the same sizes. Either way, the 911 will be lighter and more dynamic when compared to a sibling with standard shoes. The five spokes on that particular Carrera are quite apart from each other and as a result we can see the callipers which are in what color?

All yellowishness aside, your hearing may also be provoked by the TechArt exhaust system that has remote valve control and dual oval pipes through which the car can sing its song.

The Carrera we have in our gallery will be at the show, but thankfully you can have the finish, inside and outside, custom made. Regardless of that, you get a lot of leather and Alcantra, carbon fiber, TechArt floor mats, TechArt steering wheel and paddle shifters. Let’s just hope, that there is some protective eyeware on the TechArt stand because my eyes are now hurting and I am not even close to the thing.

Source: TechArt

February 28, 2012

Range Rover Evoque Convertible Concept

Get ready for something new. Although the markets today are flooded with all kinds of SUV’s, Land Rover are going to introduce one that will fascinate the world. Welcome to the Land Rover Evoque Convertible Concept. A world debut is set for the 82nd Geneva Motor Show in no more than two weeks time.

The Convertible Concept is actually a standard Evoque Coupe that has sped through a really, really low bridge and the hard top was scraped clean off the car. Well, it is actually more complicated than that, but it will have the Evoque’s engine lineup – a 2.2-liter diesel with 150bhp or 190bhp, and a 240bhp 2.0-liter petrol unit. That may come as a disappointment for some as it is common knowledge that making a convertible takes some extra weight and strengthening. The soft-top retracting mechanism is neatly snug below the belt-line and the distinctive shape of the original has been preserved to near perfection.

Inside, one still gets a hefty amount of Evoquishness – Terrain Response, surround cameras, Park Assist, an 8-inch dual view touch screen and a Meridian sound system. Predominant colors in the passenger area are Lunar and Ivory while outside, the body work is Causeway Grey metallic, complemented by 21-inch wheels that have a Titan silver finish.

The Evoque Convertible Concept really does look like a bathtub with a windshield but in a sort of a cool way. We really like the uncanny feel that this car radiates and we hope other people like it too. Production is still questionable and most likely the Geneva Show will play a decisive role in the concept’s future. Should the reception turn out positive we might see it in a couple of years on the streets.

Source: Land Rover

February 28, 2012

MEC design Mercedes-Benz W204

MEC design have released an overhauling program for the Mercedes-Benz C-class. It covers all the W204 range – from the C180K to C63AMG. Nothing groundbreaking – Just a bit of sound and style, a dash of chrome, and some carbon fiber.

To start off, we have a set of special “mecxtreme III“ 1-piece 9×20″ wheels, wrapped in 235/30 ZR 20 all rounders. A choice between two rear diffusers is given. One is carbon fiber, the other isn’t. Also, both of them are only compatible with the C63 Coupe with AMG Styling kit (sports package), post 2011. Then there’s some badging – A chromed “MEC Design” logo for the boot lid and – a replacement for the Mercedes-Benz star – a “MEC Design” emblem.

Inside, four floor mats finished with precious velours/ nubuck-leather embroidery and a MEC Design-logo will set you back 171 euros ($228). An even more voluminous expense is the MEC steering wheel which will be yours for 1,250 euros ($1,673) in exchange for the old one. Make that 1,440 euros ($1,928) if you want carbon inserts in it. Other than that, the wheel is said to be ergonomic with perforated leather on the handling area and MEC design inscriptions at the lower end.

Finally, to make sure that you don’t go anywhere unnoticed, MEC have provided some artillery pieces – two stainless steel mufflers with four oval tailpipes, sizing 115x85mm. The 4 cylinder models C200CGI, C250CGI should also get a splitter Y-piece pipe so that they can accommodate the two mufflers from each side. Here’s how a C63 AMG makes use of that orchestra:

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VLkP4UKeT6M&feature=youtu.be

Source: MEC design

February 28, 2012

2012 BMW 640d xDrive Coupe

BMW has added two interesting models to the new 6-Series line-up. The 2012 640d xDrive Coupe and Convertible will arrive in the showrooms this spring. The world’s most intelligent AWD system – xDrive teams up with a six-cylinder in-line diesel engine featuring BMW TwinPower Turbo technology to take driving pleasure to another new level.

The performance is insane – 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. Furthermore, this performance comes with 5.7 liters per 100 km (49.6 mpg on combined cycle) with 149 g/km CO2.

The brilliant 3.0 liter six-cylinder twin-turbocharged diesel delivers 313PS (230 kW) at 4400RPM and 630Nm (465 lb-ft) at 1500RPM. The engine is mated to a 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox, which is tuned precisely to the performance characteristics of the power unit. In ECO PRO mode, the power reserves of the sporty diesel engine play a prominent role in ensuring a relaxed and extremely efficient driving style at low engine speeds.

The latest generation of the most powerful diesel engine boasts a low-weight all-aluminium crankcase and the latest development of BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. This package of technology comprises multi-stage turbocharging and common-rail direct injection whose piezo injectors work with maximum pressure of 2 000 bar. The car’s two-stage turbocharging generates instantaneous and forceful power delivery, while the injection system sprays the fuel into the cylinders in precisely measured quantities to ensure clean and efficient combustion.

The Driving Experience Control switch can also be used to call up SPORT, SPORT+ and COMFORT modes, and – if the optional Dynamic Damper Control or Adaptive Drive are selected – COMFORT+. As well as the accelerator progression, engine responses, power steering characteristics, intervention thresholds of the DSC stability control system and shift dynamics of the automatic transmission, this also allows the driver to adjust the damper settings and anti-roll control.

The new BMW 6 Series Coupe can also be equipped with a specially developed M Sport package. The aerodynamic, exterior and interior components designed in familiar M style clearly showcase the sports car character of the 6 Series Coupe. Equipment includes an M aerodynamics package with bespoke body components for the front end, side sills and rear apron, exhaust tailpipe embellishers in Chrome Dark, LED front fog lamps and 19-inch light-alloy wheels in M double-spoke design. 20” light-alloy wheels in M double-spoke design can also be ordered as an option. Inside, features such as M-specific Alcantara/leather sports seats in Anthracite with Blue contrast stitching, an M leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons and gearshift paddles, and Aluminium Hexagon interior trim strips all play their part in creating a full-blooded driving experience. The M Sport package also includes door sills bearing the M logo, as well as an M driver’s footrest.

The BMW 6 Series Coupe offers seating for four immersed in a luxurious ambience, while its 460-litre boot can accommodate three 46-inch golfbags or two medium-sized hard-shell suitcases plus a flight case. The comfort-enhancing equipment fitted as standard in the new BMW 6 Series Coupe includes 2-zone automatic climate control, a multifunction steering wheel, electric steering column adjustment, electrically adjustable and heated exterior mirrors, Cruise Control with braking function, a rain sensor with automatic headlight range control, a HiFi audio system and the control system iDrive with

Source: BMW

February 27, 2012

2012 Subaru Legacy Tourer – Price £26 865

Subaru UK has announced the price list for the new 2012 Legacy Tourer. The family vehicle starts at £26 865 OTR for the entry level 2.0 D S model and goes up to 31 375 for the top-of-range 2.5i SE Navplus*. The new Legacy Tourer comes with a lot of significant technical improvements and equipment upgrades. It will deliver more satisfaction to owners and in the same time, it will lower the running costs and environmental impact.

The next-generation Boxer diesel engine meets Euro 5 regulations with emission of just 149 g/km CO2 and astonishing fuel economy – 49.6 mpg (combined cycle). Importantly, the latter drops the car’s VED band down to level F, saving customers £35 per year. These figures are achieved thanks to a more efficient turbocharger, new exhaust-camshaft timing and lighter connecting rods, new oxidation catalytic converters and Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).

In terms of power, the diesel is very good – 147PS (108 kW) at 3600RPM and 350Nm (258 lb-ft) at 1600RPM. 0-100 km/h in 9.6 seconds and a top speed of 193 km/h (120 mph).

The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox and a Lineartronic automatic is available as an option.

Suspension modifications for all 2012 Legacy models include new bushes for the front anti-roll stabiliser bar mounts to improve ride comfort, new pressed upper rear suspension arms to reduce weight (saving 2 kg per car), and new pillow-ball bushes in the rear wishbones to reduce friction and provide a smoother ride.

The exterior modifications of the new 2012 Legacy Tourer are minor – new door mirrors, a higher-resolution rear view camera (SE NavPlus only) and the availability of a new colour – Ice Silver Metallic. The interior benefits from a single-CD unit featuring a large LCD display screen together with USB and iPod connectivity and steering wheel-mounted controls. On diesel models (with manual transmission) the instrument cluster now has a ‘shift-up’ indicator to encourage an economical driving style.

Standard equipment includes cruise control, a glass ‘tilt-n-slide’ sunroof, dual-zone fully automatic air-conditioning, a premium audio system with six speakers (including two tweeters), automatic lights and wipers and a powered driver’s seat. A Bluetooth® hands-free system with voice activation is fitted as standard, while all but the S model are trimmed in black leather. Models with Lineartronic transmission feature steering wheel mounted paddle-shifters as standard.

SE and SE NavPlus models add a Sports Package which comprises a sports front bumper and front grille, dark tinted headlamps, larger 18” alloy wheels and special Bilstein dampers. SE NavPlus models also feature a new DVD navigation system as standard, with a high-resolution eight-inch display for optimum clarity.
In the UK, the 2012 Legacy is available in a selection of six exterior body colours – one new colour (Ice Silver Metallic) – alongside five popular carry-over colours, Satin White, Galaxy Blue Silica, Crystal Black Silica, Graphite Grey Metallic and Camellia Red Pearl.

2012 Subaru Legacy Tourer:

Model	£Price (OTR)	CO₂ g/km	VED band	Insurance group	£P11D value
Diesel
2.0D S	26,865	149	F	20E	26,680
2.0D SE	29,070	156	G	21E	28,850
2.0D SE NavPlus	31,370	156	G	21E	31,150
Petrol
2.5i SE*	29,075	196	J	19E	28,575
2.5i SE Navplus*	31,375	196	J	20E	30,875

*with Lineartronic transmission as standard

Source: Subaru

February 27, 2012

2012 Caterham SP 300 R

Finally, the mighty Caterham SP 300 R will be ready for testing by the customers. They will get the chance to put the new car through its paces for the first time on Thursday, 1 March. This race car is built with only one purpose – to give maximal thrills to its driver. The project is co-developed by Lola Cars and will sit alongside the legendary Seven in Caterham’s product portfolio.

“The SPR is very quick and a little like a formula car in that I could feel the downforce working and giving it lots of grip and balance. It was great fun to be able to give it a blast in Jerez and I look forward to testing Caterham’s road and race cars more often.”, commented Heikki Kovalainen.

“We can’t wait to see how our customers react to the SP/300.R, it’s a real thrill to drive and very engaging so we know they’ll love it. These coming weeks are the culmination of a massive effort from a big team of people and we are very close to achieving our objective, so it’s very exciting for everybody involved. Over the coming months, there will be numerous opportunities for people to experience the SP/300.R.”, Simon Lambert, Caterham Motorsport Manager added.

The SP 300 R is powered by a 2.0 liter Ford Duratec engine with 304PS (224 kW), which is coupled with a Hewland semi-automatic FTR gearbox. The overall weight is just 600 kg (1 323 lbs). This means a power-to-weight ratio of 500BHP per tonne.

The performance is astonishing – 0-100 km/h in 2.5 seconds and a top speed of 274 km/h (170 mph).

Other interesting point are the full race suspension, 13” race rims with Cooper Avon Tyres, an integrated roll-cage, a 6-point harness, a fire extinguisher and fuel cut-off switch. There are also AP racing brakes and steering wheel with data display.

The price for this toy is £60 000.

Source: Caterham

February 27, 2012

Mazda CX-5 with Smart City Brake Support

Mazda has announced their latest technology named Smart City Brake Support (SCBS). It practically helps a driver to avoid frontal collisions during city driving at low speeds. The all-new 2012 Mazda CX-5 compact crossover will be equipped with SCBS. The safety system uses a laser sensor to detect a vehicle or obstacle in front of the Mazda CX-5. If the driver fails to slow the vehicle appropriately, or to take avoiding action, SCBS automatically activates the brakes and reduces the engine output at the same time. In such way, the SCBS helps to avoid collisions rom rear-end collisions at low speeds, which are among the most common accidents in the city.

Actually, the system works at low speeds between 4 km/h (2.5 mph) and 30.5 km/h (19 mph). As we mentioned a laser sensor, which is mounted at the top of the windscreen detects a vehicle or obstacle in front of the car. It also monitors the gap between the two vehicles and the closing speed. If the SCBS calculates that there is a risk of a collision occurring and the driver were to take no action, the safety system pre-pressures the braking system. This ensures a faster response when the driver activates the brakes. Still, if there is no action from the driver, an automatic braking operation is activated. Remember, it is only effective within speeds from 4 km/h to 30.5 km/h.

Mazda Motor Corporation is working hard on its safety technologies. The manufacturer is aiming for the ultimate goal of realising an accident-free and safe motorised society. Mazda intends to extend its advanced safety technologies, such as SCBS, to future new models, following its debut on Mazda CX-5, to contribute to provide all customers with driving pleasure together with outstanding environmental and safety performance.

Mazda CX-5 with Smart City Brake Support

Source: Mazda

February 27, 2012

The Exclusive “Nissan CMF” Next-Generation Vehicle Engineering “4+1 Big Module Concept”

Nissan has just announced the introduction of its next-generation vehicle engineering concept. It carries the name Nissan Common Module Family (CMF) and it is going to be featured in vehicles in 2013. The innovative CMF technology combines modular engineering with Nissan’s own engineering technologies, in areas such as simulation and variation engineering and simplicity. With the development of CMF, Nissan expects to raise the popularity of its products and thereby significantly expand sales volume. Since a long time already has Nissan been promoting vehicle platform communization. It started with several vehicle variations derived from a single platform. As a result, this has become critical to achieving the rapid improvements in products, which is necessary for a company to survive in the competitive market. Nissan is aware that each new vehicle that is developed must include distinctive characteristics, improved fuel economy, passenger safety and IT features, and the rapid application of the latest technologies into the development process. It is important now that volume efficiencies must be achieved with the help and use of common vehicle structures, components and parts. Up to now, it was difficult to balance such contrasting elements. However, Nissan is fully embracing these challenges and implementing its next-generation “Nissan CMF” vehicle engineering strategy.

In details, the application of Nissan CMF determines the use of four modules – engine compartment, cockpit, front underbody and rear underbody – as well as the architecture for electronic components, with each module having appropriate variations. What is important here is that vehicles are designed by combining these modules in different ways. Hence, all this results in variety of vehicles, depending on the module configuration: from compacts, large-sized vehicles through to tall SUVs. All of them can be efficiently designed.

Nissan brand made a committement to introducing 90 new technologies by 2016 and Nissan CMF is one of them. It will enable commonization that transcends vehicle segments, efficiency, and make the application of attractive new technologies across several models.

Source: Nissan

February 27, 2012

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