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New Rimac C_Two undergoes an extreme temperature testing [VIDEO]

The Rimac C_Two is at its final stages of the multi-year global homologation program, which means that it can already be sold all over the world, from Canada to the Middle East.

The vehicle has undergone some demanding tests and engineers have added their seal of approval to the HVAC system that was tested that was put to the ultimate weather test. By using a Climatic chamber, capable of creating temperatures as high a 48 degrees (118F) and as low as -28C (-4F), the Rimac C_Two has proven that its compressors, pumps and fans were still working as new. Although the temperature in the cabin has reached some extreme temperature levels, the vehicle was still in perfect technical condition.

When it comes to extreme colds, the prototype was left overnight in -28C (-4F) with the doors wide open. Yet, despite the cold and ice, all pumps and components worked faultlessly and the vehicle was still in good condition after the defrost process.

SEE ALSO: Gordon Murray team makes the first road test of the new T.50 supercar

Following the latest tests, the Rimac C_Two prototype will undergo the final stages of the homologation test, durability evaluations, some trim expectations, NVH fine-tunings, and global product evaluations before entering the production phase and offering it through dealers.

https://youtu.be/vleo2221GQo

Source: Rimac

March 16, 2021
Gordon Murray team makes the first road test of the new T.50 supercar

Gordon Murray Automotive’s T.50 supercar has had its first-ever development test drive and marked a milestone for the world’s most driver-centric supercar.

The XP2 prototype with limited revs was first put on a test drive at the Top Gear test track in Dunsfold, Surrey, UK and its first test drive were undertaken by Professor Gordon Murray.

The new T.50 supercar is powered by the world’s highest-revving and yet lightest naturally aspirated road car V12 power unit that delivers a total of 663hp. It weighs about 986kg and features the most advanced aerodynamics yet seen on a road car.

The Gordon Murray Automotive creates exclusive and low volume sports cars. The T.50 is the brand’s first model with customer cars built-in 2022. Its sibling, the T.50s Niki Lauda goes into production in 2023.

SEE ALSO: VW will make the new Golf R the most powerful in the lineup so far

Professor Gordon Murray CBE: The XP2 prototype is currently running at considerably less revs than its 12,100rpm limit, yet the T.50 felt fantastic on my first drive. The car was responsive, agile and rewarding to drive. It was a fantastic experience to be sitting in the centre of the car once again with great all-round visibility and I can see how much the owners will enjoy this experience. Obviously, there’s still a lot of development miles to be completed and many more prototypes to build. But the trajectory of the T.50 development is where we want it to be.

March 16, 2021
VW will make the new Golf R the most powerful in the lineup so far

The new 2022 Volkswagen Golf R will arrive later this year and will offer the best output in the Golf R to date with 315hp and 310 pound-feet of torque. In order to distribute this power more efficiently and get the maximum out of it, engineers have also included a revised 4Motion AWD system with rear-axle torque vectoring.

This new torque vectoring system uses a rear differential with two multi-plate clutches that can distribute up to 100 per cent of the rear torque to an individual rear wheel. This approach ensures that the distributed power is just enough to get the vehicle and drier out of the situation.

Also, for the first time ever, the 4Motion system has been connected to the Vehicle Dynamics Manager, a smart system that integrates the torque vectoring axle, the electronic differential locks and the cornering performance of the DCC adaptive damping system. The Vehicle Dynamics Manager monitors the vehicle’s behaviour on every corner and uses a combination of selected single-wheel braking.

SEE ALSO: ROUSH reveals its new tuning project. It involves an F-150 this time

The torque vectoring technology was also the key function of the new track-only “Drift” mode which changes the stability control parameter and the torque vectoring sends all available rear torque to the outside wheel.

Source: Volkswagen

March 16, 2021
ROUSH reveals its new tuning project. It involves an F-150 this time

ROUSH Performance has announced its 2021 F150 is now available for preorder. This tuning project is the result of the brand’s racing experience and vast knowledge of sporty vehicles. In fact, the ROUSH team has gathered experience from all kinds of race events – from Pikes Peak to the silt of Baja, these guys have seen it all.

Exterior and interior styling

The machine itself is based on the all-new Ford F-150 and comes with ROUSH exclusive components, high-performance suspension, new wheels and tires and a cat-back exhaust system and some neat cabin upgrades. Let’s have a look!

Some of the exterior changes and upgrades include a set of ROUSH wide-body fender flares with integrated accent lights and heated extracting vents. There are also a high-flow ROUSH grille and bumper cover that brings some more style. There are also custom paddle lamps that illuminate the ROUSH logo on the ground when a door is opened.

Inside, the standard equipment includes ROUSH gauge cluster serialized badging, custom pedals with rubberized grips and some custom ROUSH floor liners. Some of the optional features include the brand’s premium leather seating and the so-called Ready Package, which includes a steel centre console vault with a 4-digit combo lock and an off-road kit with a host of trail recovery tools.

Drivetrain system

In terms of the drivetrain system, 2021 ROUSH F-150 can be specified with four-wheel drive XLT Sport and Lariat models with a 5.0-litre V8 power unit. Also, buyers can specify their vehicle with a ROUSH Performance Brake pack that includes a six-piston Alcon front brake set with revised 13.7-inch rotors and high friction pads and a ROUSH active control exhaust system.

SEE ALSO: SKODA celebrates 120 years of racing with a limited run of Fabia Edition 120

2021 ROUSH F-150 is also geared with a custom-valved set of ROUSH/Fox 2.0 shocks which are a perfect fit to the F-150 and come with internal floating pistons. This setup provides a smooth and pleasurable ride on any road condition. The front coilover shocks are outfitted with fine-tuned performance springs and lift the front-end by two inches, which provides even more flexibility on the road. The 20-inch grey ROUSH wheels are covered by Grabber A/TX tires and are the perfect compliment for the suspension upgrades. Also, they greatly enhance the visual impact of the vehicle.

March 15, 2021
SKODA celebrates 120 years of racing with a limited run of Fabia Edition 120

In order to honour its 120^th anniversary in racing, SKODA Motorsport, the Czech manufacturer presents an exclusive Fabia Rally2 evo Edition 120. The lineup is consistent with merely 12 units and comes with advanced technical features, tons of additional equipment and a special livery and exclusive accessories.

The standard equipment includes storage bags or nets for personal items, tools, spare parts and more. Also, the limited edition comes with exclusive interior electronics and a unique production number.

New Fabia Edition 120 also includes a new engine with an improved combustion chamber, optimized exhaust manifold, new valve timing and a new setup of the electronic mapping. All these modifications contribute to excellent performance rates and road behaviour. The engine generates 214kW and the newly calibrated dampers ensure even better traction and car stability.

Also, the new Fabia Rally2 comes with a stronger rear axle subframe which minimizes the risk of damage on rough terrain and also incorporates a special cooling system for the rear brakes. Exclusive for the lineup are also a special lubrication system and a newly designed intake strainer and an optimized geometry of the baffle plates in the oil sump. This improves turbocharger oil feeding and its reliability.

SEE ALSO: Kia showcases its new design concept with EV6

Buyers will also have the chance to personalize the vehicle with a longer gear set, which makes the gearbox more suitable for rallies and increases the top speed to 202km/h. Also, the SKODA team offers a third set of differential ramps that can be used on gravel and tarmac stages.

March 15, 2021
Kia showcases its new design concept with EV6

Kia revealed the first images of the all-new EV6, the brand’s first dedicated battery electric vehicle (BEV), ahead of the car’s world premiere.

EV6 adopts Kia’s new design approach of “Opposite United”, which takes its influence from the contrast found in nature and humanity. The idea is that the new visual appearance will blend super elegant lines and curves, but there will also be some more aggressive and sharp shapes.

The vehicle is based on the brand’s Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) and is the first Kia vehicle to be influenced by this design approach and incline towards electrification.

Exterior design

The “Opposite United” concept makes its debut with the new EV6 and will be a vital part of every new Kia vehicle. The idea is based on five design pillars: “Bold for nature”, “Joy for Reason”, “Power to Progress”, “Technology for Life” and “Tension for Security”

Each of these pillars contributes to more environmentally green production and more advanced technologies in each Kia machine. Engineers and designers have focused on developing a machine that is both fun to drive, comfortable to operate and pleasurable to see.

The exterior design of the vehicle features a distinctive set of daytime running lights, tiger-nose grille and an overall menacing front fascia. The low air intake widens the front of the car and accentuates the high-tech appearance.

The sides are defined by crossover-inspired design aesthetics that bring this contemporary and sleek appearance and also contribute to enhanced aerodynamic features. This approach contrasts with the sharp lines and high-tech design in order to create some more dynamics and tension in the design language. Also, a swept-back windshield contributes to the sporty appearance, while the rear-end adds more volume and makes the car look more muscular and massive.

Additionally, the rear-end is designed to optimize the aerodynamic performance and features a sloping C-pillar with an integrated black glossy insert that widens the window glass. Above sits a prominent roof spoiler that channels air down to the raised lower spoiler and finishes the vehicle’s visuals.

Interior design

Marking a new era for Kia, the interior design reveals a cozy space for all occupants with numerous elegant features and tons of hi-tech units.

One of the most striking components is the seamless high-definition audiovisual navigation screen. It is a wide and curved design that gives a feeling of openness and spaciousness, along with the slim dashboard. It provides driver and passengers with all the vital information about the vehicle and also serves as a multimedia display. Underneath the AVN screen, there’s a passenger control HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) set of settings with haptic buttons.

New EV6 will make its world premiere in March 2021, during a special online event.

Stick with us for further information!

March 15, 2021
2021 Hyundai Elantra receives a prestigious award

The Hispanic Motor Press Awards (HPMA) has named the 2021 Hyundai Elantra a Car Model of the Year. This is the 11^th consecutive event and the yearly tradition recognizes vehicles for their exterior appearance, driving satisfaction, technologies include, safety features and environmental impact. As it seems, Elantra became one of the top ten contestants in the event. The winners were announced during a special virtual event.

The 2021 HMPA Jury Panel consists of 24 independent Hispanic journalists, content creators and industry enthusiasts. There are more than 20 juror members that evaluate more than 100 vehicles.

SEE ALSO: ROUSH reveals its new tuning project. It involves an F-150 this time

As it seems, the Hyundai team has proven itself to be one of these automobile manufacturers that achieves even more than expected and grants buyers and brand enthusiasts with more than just the ordinary. Recently, Hyundai has shown many new vehicles that have received exceptionally positive feedback, all along with delivering advanced and next-generation engineering solutions and hi-tech gadgets. Hyundai vehicles are sold and serviced in more than 820 dealerships across the globe and almost half of these are sold in the US. Hyundai Motor America is headquartered in Fountain Valley, California, and is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company of Korea.

Source: Hyundai

March 15, 2021
The iconic Maserati Bora turns 50. Here’s a quick overview

Maserati commemorates the Bora, the brand’s first mid-mounted rear engine road vehicle. The story of the model spans through 50 years and marks a new dawn for the automobile manufacturer: Bora features a unique engine position that later becomes a standard for other manufacturers.

The first model made its world debut at the Geneva International Motor show on 11^th March 1971 and provided the backdrop for the Bora, produced until 1978. There were a total of 564 vehicles built.

Back in the day, the Maserati team asked Giorgetto Giugiaro of Italdesign to come up with a mid-mounted rear engine sporty automobile that provides enhanced performance, but also elegance and advanced safety features. The engine the vehicle received was the tried and test 4,700 cc V8 unit with 310hp at 6,000rpm and was mounted lengthways on the subframe installed on the monocoque.

Along with the distinctive setup, the vehicle also received retractable headlights to prevent aerodynamic lag, independent suspension for all wheels, disc brakes, telescopic suspension dampers and a five-speed gearbox.

All these features enhance the vehicle’s comfort and pleasure of driving an allow for a top speed of 280km/h.

SEE ALSO: Jaguar Classic showcases the limited E-Type 60 Collection

What is also special about the Bora is that the entire project was a futuristic one and included an exterior design that completely resembles this approach. Bora proudly showcases a futuristic low and slender body stance with tapered front-end with rectangular air vents, sleek sides and a truncated tail.

March 12, 2021
Jaguar Classic showcases the limited E-Type 60 Collection

Jaguar Classic unveils its first pair of E-type 60 Collection vehicles and revealed full specs for the 12 restored 3.8-litre E-Type vehicles exclusively built to celebrate the 60^th anniversary of the lineup.

The E-Type made its world debut in Geneva on the 15^th of March, 1961. The vehicle became so popular that the team was forced to rush a second E-Type, a roadster that also achieved overnight success.

Some 60 years later, the E-Type 60 Collection pays tribute to these two legendary vehicles and can only be purchased in a pair – one E-Type 60 Edition coupe and one E-Type 60 Edition roadster. Both machines are finished in exclusive Flat Out Grey and Drop Everything Green. These colour schemes are inspired by the original 1961 colors and won’t be used on any other Jaguar vehicle.

As expected, the vehicles also include a range of special E-Type 60 components to enhance the exclusivity of the project. Such are the five-speed manual gearbox and enhanced engine cooling capabilities. There are also Jaguar Classic Infotainment System with built-in satellite navigation and Bluetooth connectivity.

SEE ALSO: Volkswagen announces details for the new Touareg R lineup

The most distinctive visual highlight, however, is the individual and exclusive engraving by artist and designer King Nerd on the central console of each vehicle. It represents the drive routes from Coventry to Geneva of the original cars. Each piece takes more than 100 hours to complete.

Drivetrain system

As mentioned, the most significant upgrade is the exclusive five-speed manual gearbox with synchromesh on all ratios, helical cut gears and a reinforced cast aluminium casing for more reliability and greater durability.

The engine is a 265hp 3.8-litre six-cylinder that works in conjunction with a 1961-style alloy radiator, and a polished stainless steel exhaust system. In fact, this new system is absolutely identical to the standard mild steel system but provides a deeper tone and greater longevity.

Source: Jaguar Classic

March 12, 2021
Volkswagen announces details for the new Touareg R lineup

Volkswagen Touareg R is the first fully-fledged production R model that will be launched with an electrified drivetrain system. The chosen setup is capable of incredible performance and also will ensure low emissions. So, let’s find out more, shall we?

New Touareg R incorporates numerous talents and the most notable ones are these performance rates. The high-performance SUV generates a total of 462hp and 700Nm of torque and can sprint from 0 to 100km/h in 5.1 seconds. The vehicle’s top speed is limited to 279km/h. What is also interesting about this setup is that about 70 per cent of the vehicle’s torque can be transferred to the front wheels and up to 80 per cent to the rear ones, thanks to the centre differential lock with asymmetric torque distribution.

Talking about performance, the heart of the beast I an advanced 3.0-litre V6 eHybrid plug-in powertrain. This is a refined system and advanced enough to make the R lineup the most running-cost-friendly model in the Touareg lineup with its economy and CO2 emissions of 94.2mpg.

Not only powerful and with a sporty spirit, the new Touareg is also generously equipped. The new model comes with black “Puglia” leather upholstery, diamond-quilted ergoComfort seats with contrasting blue stitching and piping, and active climate control for the front occupants. The new R lineup also benefits from an exclusive heated leather sports steering wheel with R logo and DSG shift paddles, 30-colour interior lighting setup and keyless locking and starting system.

The standard equipment also includes an air suspension system with automatic self-levelling function, Park Assist with 360-degree Area View camera and LED matrix headlights. Additionally, buyers will benefit from Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist functions that are part of the standard equipment.

Source: Volkswagen

March 12, 2021
Nissan praises the advanced Ariya lineup with new exclusive body finishes

Nissan unveils a rich palette of body finishes for the Ariya, all inspired by the innovative nature of the lineup. Driven by the ambition to bring the worlds of electric vehicles and design elegance together, the Nissan team has created a futuristic vehicle with tons of features.

There are four monotone and six two-tone variants, all exclusively created to enhance the visual impact of the new Ariya. Also, the paint is applied by an advanced and environmentally sustainable paint production technology which reduces the carbon dioxide output by 25 per cent.

There are also two unique finishes, named Akatsuki Copper and Aurora Green, both captivating the sporty essence of the Arya lineup. Inspired by the Japanese phrase “dawn”, Akatsuki Copper mimics the beauty of the sunrise, reflecting Nissan’s refreshed brand identity. The finish comes with metallic sparkle and honours the brand’s advanced EV technologies.

On the other hand, the Aurora Green is inspired by the Northern Lights phenomenon, commonly seen in the arctic. The paint blends different tones and grants the chameleon effect – some time the vehicle can appear green or purple, depending on the angle and the type of light that illuminates it.

SEE ALSO: Jaguar Classic showcases the limited E-Type 60 Collection

Also, Pearl Black is a new pigment, developed to explore the depth of the paint and add a rich and captivating appearance. Some advanced technologies were also used for the Pearl White body finish, which adds crisp and clean visuals, especially when blended with the contrasting black roof and other black exterior components.

Nissan has also released a video in which viewers can have more insight into the exclusive paints project. Watch it now!

Source: Nissan

Video Source: YouTube

March 12, 2021
Hyundai reveals more details for the new TUCSON lineup

Hyundai Motor UK announces more details for the all-new TUCSON Plug-In Hybrid, the brand’s latest addition to the TUCSON lineup.

This is the brand’s best-selling SUV and it comes in a wide range of electrified engines. First, there’s the 1.6-litre T-GDi SmarStream power unit, paired with a 66.9kW electric motor and a 13.8kWh lithium polymer battery. This combination ensures a total of 165hp and 350Nm of torque with an electric-only range of about 50km.

Also, the new TUCSON comes with a number of changes in terms of equipment. There’s this new active aerodynamics technology with Active Air Flap which adjusts the air intake, depending on the powertrain coolant temperature, vehicle speed, and other metrics in order to optimize the fuel efficiency. The 4WD is now a standard feature on the Plug-in Hybrid, with Hyundai HTRAC four-wheel drive technology and Terrain Mode selector for improving the performance on challenging terrain. HTRAC can also distribute power output to the front and rear wheels, depending on the traction conditions and the driving state, while the Terrain Mode selector will improve the power, torque and braking, depending on the conditions.

At the moment, the new TUCSON is available in two trims available, Premium and Ultimate. The first one, the Premium, offers 18-inch alloys, LED front and rear lights, 10.25-inch touchscreen satellite navigation with Bluelink and a 10-inch driver’s supervision instrument cluster.

On the other hand, Ultimate offers 19-inch wheels, leather seat facings, a panoramic sunroof and a smart electric tailgate. It can also be geared with the optional Tech Pack that comes with electronically controlled suspension, remote smart park assist, blind-spot view monitor, around view monitor and parking collision avoidance.

SEE ALSO: A quick overview of the limited 2016 Aston Martin Lagonda Taraf

Ashley Andrew, Managing Director, Hyundai Motor UK said All-New Tucson has received a tremendous reception from both customers and industry alike and it has quickly become a focus for the brand with its combination of styling, chassis dynamics and electrified hybrid powertrains. The launch of the TUCSON Plug-in Hybrid will further grow its popularity, particularly within the key fleet markets with its combination of high standard specifications, zero emissions capability and low BIK. TUCSON Plug-in Hybrid is an important player for Hyundai in our environmental commitments and the on-going drive to lower the emissions of our vehicles.

March 11, 2021