2012 – Automobiles Review

Skoda Citigo 5-door World Debut at Geneva

The 2012 Geneva Motor Show will no doubt bring excitement to all rubber-burning, rev counting motoring enthusiasts. But a motor show isn’t a genuine one without some space for practicality and sensibility. That is why Skoda is world premiering the 5-door Citigo sub-compact car there. It’s a boxy little thing that is designed to be simple, neat and easy to live with.

Power, which isn’t much, comes from a 3-cylinder, 1.0 Litre petrol engine and amounts to 44 kW/60 hp or 55 kW/75 hp. (power variations of the same engine).In its most eco-friendly form, the Green tec variant, the new Citigo achieves 4.1 l/100 km or around 69 mpg. CO2 emissions in the new Skoda are just bellow 100g/km. In the world of today, the Citigo makes a lot of sense as it counters fuel prices, congestion and overall vehicle expenses.

If one does think about it, the Citigo doesn’t need power in excess as it hasn’t got a big bulky body and a handful of luxuries to carry around. Skoda say that inside it is as roomy as possible but how roomy can that be? The features listed as “ingenious” include net holders, a photo/document holder and a bag hook on the glove compartment – hardly technical innovations. But while the Citigo lacks luxury flash, it does make up for it by being a proud holder of a 5 star Euro NCAP safety rating. So this is what the Citigo really is – “simply clever” and no more.

At its home market this member of the Skoda family has recently become the Best City Car in the largest Czech automobile poll, the Car of the Year 2012. Now the company is aiming at broadening it’s market outside of the Czech Republic. It is all part of an overall growth plan that will hopefully culminate in 2018 when Skoda annual shipments reach the 1.5 million mark. City cars such as the Citigo are the backbone of every successful company which produces great cars for all kinds of people.

Source: Skoda

January 30, 2012

2012 Chevrolet Camaro 2SS Convertible Geiger Compressor

A real beast is going to be released in the forthcoming 2012, namely the brand new Chevrolet Camaro 2SS Convertible Geiger Compressor! It comes with the astonishing 568 kW PS/418 from a powerful 6.2-liter V8 with a supercharger kit under the hood! This upgraded Camaro Convertible 2SS with Geiger Kompressort Kit delivers unique mix of power and freedom. Moreover it now offers V8 sound created by the Munich American car specialists. The new and improved vehicle is, in comparison to its ancestors, with significant power increase as well as extensive additional equipment – all of course TÜV. For superior performance regardless of high revs, high torque of the tuned by Geiger Camaro 2SS: min Legendary 779 Nm at 4,100 rpm/.

The whole 568 horsepower (405 kW) you can get at the price of 90,000 euros for the 2SS. In addition the model is characterized by a unique violinist compressor price-performance. Moreover this high-quality equipment version of the Geiger-compressor-kit includes: Geiger wheels in 10 x 22 inch with tires in size 265/30/22 and 295/25/ZR22 rear, an adjustable sport suspension with stabilizers on front Geiger and rear axles, Geiger sport exhaust system, Geiger aerodynamic-enhancement kit with front spoiler, side skirts and rear diffuser as well as special paint. All this comes with an ample standard equipment including leather, xenon headlights, parking assistance, rear camera, head-up display, on-board computer, extra ads (oil and transmission temperature, battery voltage, oil pressure) , dimming exterior mirrors, electrically adjustable and foldable, and Boston Premium Hi-Fi sound system (MP3, CD, Bluetooth-enabled).

The prices for the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro 2SS Convertible start from 43990 Euro. Moreover there is being offered Geiger individual finishes such as: decorative design of your choice (price from 500 Euro), metallic paint (for 800 Euro), additional premium paint (for 1000 Euro), numerous individual special leather interior, sports seat, navigation and sound system.

Specifications 2012 Chevrolet Camaro 2SS Convertible Geiger Compressor:
Engine: 6.2-liter V8 with Geiger-compressor kit
Power: 568 kW at 6250 rpm PS/418 kW / 772 HP/ 568 HP
Torque: 779 Nm at 4,100 U / 575 lb-ft /
Consumption (combined): 12.8 l/100 km
Price: From € 84 900

Source: Chevrolet

December 20, 2011

New 2012 Lexus Concept

As we have already announced – Lexus has revealed last week a new concept for a new vehicle that will debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit at 13:25 PST (22:25 CET) on 9^th of January, 2012. Today the company has released a second teaser, this time giving a sneak peak at the interior of the new Lexus design concept. The interior was created by Calty, which is Lexus’ design studio in Newport Beach, California. As you can see, design is more than luxurious with smooth lines and curves, and fine leather all around. It is definitely eye-catching and breathtaking.

And having in mind the first teaser (an image of the exterior), this concept vehicle will surely be a sports car with sharp and aggressive lines.

Source: Lexus

December 20, 2011

All-New Global Vehicle by Ford at the Delhi Auto Expo 2012

Ford is going to present an all-new vehicle at the 11th Auto Expo 2012 in New Delhi. The vehicle is planned to be introduced in India and other global markets in the near future. The Ford’s high-tech and interactive stand will cover roughly 1,400 square meters, where the planned highlights will be presented by the company. For instance such include comprehensive safety and quality displays, a 3D theater, live shows and a crowd-sourced, interactive driving game.

The exclusive news is that the new vehicle will be the latest One Ford global product, which is designed to help expand Ford’s footprint in the world’s fastest-growing auto markets, including India. The expansion in the country will include eight more products to be introduced in the future.

More to be seen at Ford Stand is the Ford Figo, the All-New Fiesta, the Ford Classic and the Ford Endeavour. To go further into details Figo has already sold around 130,000 units since its launch in March 2010. Although it has only been in the Indian market for not so long time, it has become the country’s most awarded car ever. Moreover it has garnered industry-wide recognition as a great value-for-money vehicle, which is exported to close to 30 international markets. Next, the Ford Classic, has made an impressive footprint on the Indian market by winning more than 120,000 customers, thank to its on-road dynamics and best-in-class fuel efficiency. On the other hand there is Ford Endeavour, which is a popular all-action SUV. At last the All-New Ford Fiesta four-door sedan will also be on display. Additional detail here is that the car soon will be available with the new best-in-class PowerShift automatic transmission. Compared to the traditional four-speed automatics, the PowerShift transmission can improve fuel economy by up to 9 percent.

All-New Global Vehicle by Ford at the Delhi Auto Expo 2012

In addition if you happen to be at the Ford stand, you will experience the advantage of the latest technology. A major highlight will be allowing the audience to take virtual control of a vehicle on a large LED screen. With the help of a motion-sensing camera, the crowd will collectively control the vehicle as it rolls along the road, and unlock information at each bend. The display will prompt the crowd to lean left and right during a short drive as it shows highlights of the route. Furthermore Ford also will have a Figo Theatre which will allow customers to sit inside the car and watch a film played on a plasma television in front of the windscreen. The video of course will explain the Figo’s Smart technologies. Another theatre – this time in 3D will present the improvements in technology, design and development of Ford’s vehicles. Here visitors will navigate a virtual car interior under the guidance of a Ford engineer. In addition a Quality Touch Table will provide guests with a hands-on opportunity to feel the quality of the materials used in Ford vehicles. On the other hand there is a Green Touch Table as well. It will demonstrate the long-term value of Ford’s green technology, delivering on Ford’s commitment to provide customers with low total cost of ownership. Next a Fiesta body shell will also be on display, giving visitors an opportunity to discover the engineering features that make the Fiesta safe and secure on the road. And to make the best out of their experience, guests will be entertained by a local magician who will perform on the stand.

Auto Expo 2012 runs from January 7-11 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

Source: FORD

December 19, 2011

2012 Hyundai I-oniq concept car – Teaser

We have very special news from Hyundai, which has presented a sneak peak at its all-new I-oniq concept car. This concept car moreover is a preview of the next evolution of the brand’s ‘Fluidic sculpture’, which will bring new “language” in the design of the cars. Moreover the car is going to be one of the main highlights from Hyundai at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2012.

Hyundai has only released a single picture of the car which adds to the overall curiosity around it! What we can see here and firmly state about the new I-oniq concept vehicle is that it has two strong arched curves, which define the silhouette of i-oniq. In addition they create a playful contrast between the sharp character lines and soft but muscular features. And if you analyze it further you will definitely see the long front, which gives a sporty look to the car. And the rear end appears to be with a hatchback design.

Unfortunately Hyundai hasn’t released more details about the new concept car. However more information about I-oniq will be revealed ahead of its world premiere at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.

The i-oniq concept was designed and developed at the company’s European R&D centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany.

Source: HYUNDAI

December 16, 2011

2012 Honda CR-V Price $22 295

The finalist at the 2012 North American Truck of the Year – namely the all-new 2012 Honda CR-V is going to make a debut today at all United States dealers. More importantly the manufacturer has suggested a retail price (MSRP) ranging from $22,295 for the value-oriented CR-V LX 2WD to $28,295 for the luxurious CR-V EX-L AWD, plus a destination and handling charge of $810 per vehicle.

Undeniably the CR-V keeps the great pricing, adding between $400 and $1000 worth of standard features and technologies to each trim. And compared to the last model it replaces the increase of the price is maximum $181 and this is for the vehicle loaded with feature content. It is really great news, almost unbelievable, that the models equipped with navigation has a decrease of $300 in the price (compared to the models from 2011).

2012 CR-V’s have exciting upgrades. Not only it has this excellent value, but also it has new features, improved fuel economy and enhanced utility. To be more precise the all-new CR-V features more efficient engine design with improved horsepower and torque. Furthermore an innovation that has been added in the model is the all-new Real Time All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) with Intelligent Control System™. All CR-Vs are powered by a 2.4-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine with 185 horsepower (136 kw) and 163 lb-ft (221 Nm) of torque. And all this comes with the standard 5-speed automatic transmission. Another highlight is the EPA: the estimated fuel economy is rated at 23/31/26 mpg city/highway/combined (2WD) (an increase of +2/+3/+2 mpg compared to the 2011 CR-V), and a compact SUV-class leading 22/30/25 mpg city/highway/combined (AWD) (an increase of +1/+3/+2 mpg compared to the 2011 CR-V).

Brand new for 2012 features is the Easy Fold-Down 60/40 Split Rear Seat. Moreover it has a lower cargo floor and a range of standard technology features. Additional high-tech features are also included as a standard on all models: For example they will include a Bluetooth^® HandsFreeLink^® phone interface, a full-color intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) and a multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines. The absolute innovation for Honda is the SMS text messaging function. This function can read received texts from compatible cell phones aloud over the audio system. Speaking about the “firsts”, there has also been included an introduction of standard Pandora^® Internet Radio interface, which is compatible with the Apple^® iPhone^®. It works with the vehicle’s audio controls and intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID). Furthermore a new addition is the Rear Entertainment System (RES).

To acknowledge the achievements of the model we have to remember that the previous-generation CR-V was recognized as a “Top Recommended Vehicle” and received “Best Retained Value SUV under $25,000” by Edmunds.com. Additionally it was also named Top compact crossover SUV in dependability by J.D. Power and Associates. With the new CR-V we have a continuation of this winning formula: the model has already earned Kelley Blue Book Best Resale Value award for the 2012 model year.

The 2012 Honda CR-V is covered by a 3-year/36,000-mile Limited Vehicle Warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty, and a 5-year/unlimited-mile Corrosion Limited Warranty.

The CR-V is sold globally in more than 160 countries throughout North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa. In the U.S., CR-Vs are manufactured at the Honda of America Manufacturing, Inc., East Liberty Auto Plant in Ohio from domestic and globally sourced parts.

2012 CR-V Pricing

Model

MSRP

City/Hwy/Combined

CR-V LX (2WD)

$22,295

23/31/26

CR-V LX (AWD)

CR-V EX (2WD)

CR-V EX (AWD)

$23,545

$24,395

$25,645

22/30/25

23/31/26

22/30/25

CR-V EX-L (2WD)

CR-V EX-L (AWD)

$27,045

$28,295

23/31/26

22/30/25

CR-V EX-L with RES (2WD)

CR-V EX-L with RES (AWD)

$27,745

$28,995

23/31/26

22/30/25

CR-V EX-L with Navi (2WD)

CR-V EX-L with Navi (AWD)

$28,545

$29,795

23/31/26

22/30/25

Source: HONDA

December 16, 2011

2012 New Fiat Panda

2012 Fiat Panda - Front Angle
The new 2012 Fiat Panda is a continuation of an invention has its 31-year successful history. Now the third generation of the Panda model springs forth from this heritage. It offers more quality in terms of space, comfort, functionality, technology and safety features. In addition it combines the best features of the first- and second-generation cars. The car will definitely bring satisfaction to customers who want to combine the practical handling of a city car with the space and comfort of a five-door compact car. All this is further improved by the modern and harmonious appearance of the Panda.

Now the third generation Panda has enhanced each of its elements both functionally and with attention to every detail. The result is of great overall harmony, due to applying signs consistent with one another that increase its usability and pleasing design values. First of all, the new car makes maximum use of the interior space, rationalising the dimensions. Nevertheless the car continues to be a very compact one but with slight grow with a few centimetres. This will unquestioningly ensure the attainment of the highest standards of safety and improve the generous level of passenger room.

We are speaking here about a length of 365 centimetres, a width of 164 and a height of 155, and with five doors. In this way the new Panda can comfortably accommodate up to five people. Moreover it has one of the most spacious boots in its segment: 225 litres which become 260 with the sliding rear seat in the fully forward position up to the point of reaching 870 litres with the backrest of the rear seats folded down. The new Fiat Panda conveys freshness and appeal in addition to a strong “Italian style” that makes it instantly recognisable from the very first glance: the slightly convex bonnet joins with the elegant horizontal grille and the new front headlamps with are made this time with rounded shape. Additionally to the interior has been added few graphic patterns which are decorating the door panels and roof of the car.

The Fiat Panda offers maximum freedom of use with its roomy, functional and comfortable passenger compartment that is in no way inferior to that of cars of a higher class. Besides, flexibility has always been one of the model’s strong points, as the new dashboard, various seat configurations and large number of storage compartments. First of all, the new dashboard is designed as a practical multipurpose shell containing a roomy storage “pocket”. Additionally there is a classic glovebox stored in the lower part of the dashboard. To be more precise the dashboard is wrapped up in a colourful frame, radio and main controls. Furthermore is something new around the seats, which make the model more flexible. Firstly, the driver’s seat is available with height adjustment, whereas the front passenger seat can be fitted with a backrest that folds down to form a table. Next, the rear seat is available in the standard 2-seater version with fold-down split backrest or, upon request, in the configurations: 2 seats sliding longitudinally with fold-down 50/50 split backrest, 3 seats with fold-down backrest and 3 seats with fold-down 60/40 split backrest.

The new Panda includes innovative features that simplify and improve life on-board accessible to everyone. Specifically, the vehicle offers sophisticated technological solutions: the “Low Speed Collision Mitigation” braking system and the “Blue&Me TomTom 2 LIVE” navigation system. Furthermore it also includes features such as Start&Stop, Gear Shift Indicator (GSI), ecoDrive and ECO mode of the TwinAir Turbo engine.

What has to be highlighted in this new Panda are the brand new two-cylinder engines equipped with the Start&Stop system as standard: 85 HP 0.9 TwinAir Turbo, named “International Engine of the Year 2011”, and the brand new 65 HP 0.9 aspirated TwinAir, adopted for the first time. The renewed 69 HP 1.2 Fire petrol engine and the 75 HP 1.3 Multijet II, also with Start&Stop supplied standard, complete the range of engines.
2012 Fiat Panda - Front View

To go further into details, the 85 HP 0.9 TwinAir Turbo is the first of a new family of two-cylinder engines developed by Fiat Powertrain This 0.9 TwinAir Turbo engine develops 85 HP (63 kW) at 5500 rpm of full power and a torque of 145 Nm/107 lb-fr at 1900 rpm (constant up to 3000 rpm). Moreover, if you prefer to be “eco” friendy and lower the fuel consumption, you can press the ECO key on the dashboard to limit torque to 100 Nm/74 lb-ft at 2000 rpm. This engine records 4.2 litres/100 km and CO₂emission equal to 99 g/km in the combined cycle. No surprise it was the “International Engine of the Year 2011”. Next is the 65 HP 0.9 aspirated TwinAir. Interesting here is that this is Fiats world debut in the “aspirated” version of the TwinAir engine that delivers maximum power of 65 HP (48 kW) at 6250 rpm and a torque of 88 Nm/65 lb-ft at 3500 rpm. All with a reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions – the values recorded in the combined cycle are 4.2 l/100 km and 99 g/km, respectively. What is more important is that the performance is comparable to engines of the same power. The thid version is 69 HP 1.2 Fire EVO II, which is the latest evolution of the FIRE family that boasts over 10 million units produced. Thanks to the continuous updates and its flexible architecture, this family of engines remains a point of reference in the category as use of the continuously variable valve timing unit shows, able as it is to optimize valve timing (opening and closing) at all engine speeds. Hence not only the fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions are reduced (5.2 litres/100 km and 120 g/km, respectively), but also the performance is increased to ensure torque availability at low rpm (102 Nm/75 lb-ft at 3000 g/min) and power at high rpm (69 HP/51 kW at 5500 g/min). At last comes the 75 HP 1.3 Multijet II, which has been made with a respect to the environment! The all-new Panda offers the 1.3 MultiJet II (Euro5) with DPF standard will also deliver a driving satisfaction with its maximum output of 75 HP/ 55 kW at 4000 rpm and a torque of 190 Nm/140 lb-ft at just 1500 rpm.

The new model of the car will be available with front-wheel drive. Next, the Panda 4×4 will make a debut offering 3 trim levels – Pop, Easy and Lounge – 10 body colours, 9 interior environments, 2 hub caps and 2 14″ and 15″ alloy wheels. Of course, the new contents will include the “Blue&Me TomTom LIVE”. The innovative optional LSCM (Low Speed Collision Mitigation) braking system will become also available. In details, this system can detect an obstacle present nearby and automatically brake at speeds slower than 30 km/h.

Fiat has though for the safety and security of the driver and the passengers too. To guarantee them, the new Panda combines a body designed according to the most modern criteria with active and passive safety content that ensures its optimum performance. The safety performance was designed by the designers and the Fiat Safety Centre after examining all possible types of collisions: front and side impacts, roll-over, pile-up and collisions with pedestrians. Various speeds at which impact may occur were also taken into consideration as well as different types of obstacles and different types of occupants with greatly varying physical characteristics. And to guarantee the protection of the occupants, the new Panda offers 4 airbags standar, ABS complete with B.A.S. (Brake Assist System), front seat belts with pretensioner and load limiter. Depending on the markets and versions, the ESC (Electronic Stability Control) complete with Hill Holder system. At last, the new “Low Speed Collision Mitigation” system is an innovative active safety feature, which is capable of recognising obstacles in front of the car and of braking automatically when the driver fails to avoid the collision. The control unit of this LSCM system is designed to activate automatic braking, following a request by the laser sensor, in addition to being designed to request a reduction in the torque from the engine control unit if the accelerator pedal has not been released. The aim of Fiat is with the help of this LSCM system to guarantee maximum safety in all conditions of use!

2012 Fiat Panda - Side Angle

	Pop / Easy / Lounge
	1.2 8v 69 HP	1.3 MultiJet 75 HP Stop&Start	0.9 85 HP TwinAir Stop&Start	0.9 65 HP TwinAir Stop&Start
ENGINE
No. of cylinders and arrangement	4L	4L	2L	2L
Diameter x stroke (mm)	70.8 x 78.9	69.6 x 82	80.5 x 86	83.5×88.0
Displacement (cm³)	1242	1248	875	964
Compression ratio	11.1	16.8	10	11.2
Max EC power: kW (HP) at rpm	51 (69) at 5500 rpm	55 (75) at 4000 rpm	63 (85) at 5500 rpm	65 (48) at 6250 rpm
EC max. torque: Nm at rpm	102 at 3000 rpm	190 at 1500 rpm	145 at 1900 rpm	88 at 3500 rpm
Timing system (drive)	Belt	Chain	Chain	Chain
Power supply	P	DS	P	P
Ignition	Controlled	Through compression	Controlled	Controlled
TRANSMISSION
Drive	C514 MT	C510 DS MT	C514 MT	C514 MT
Clutch	Mechanical	Hydraulically operated	Hydraulically operated	Mechanical
Transmission: 1^st	4.100	4.273	4.100	4.100
2^nd	2.158	2.238	2.158	2,158
3^rd	1.480	1.444	1.345	1.345
4^th	1.121	1.029	0.974	0.974
5^th	0.897	0.767	0.766	0.766
6^th	–	–	–	–
Reverse	3.818	3.909	3.818	3.818
Final reduction ratio	3.438	3.150	3.867	4.500
STEERING SYSTEM
Type	Rack and pinion with electric power steering	Rack and pinion with electric power steering	Rack and pinion with electric power steering	Rack and pinion with electric power steering
Turning circle (m)	9.3	9.3	9.3	9.3
BRAKES – D (disc) – T (drum)
Front: mm	D257X12	D257X22 self-ventilating	D257X22 self-ventilating	D257X12
Rear: mm	T203	T203	T203	T203
SUSPENSION
Front	Independent wheels, McPherson type with lower crosswise wishbones secured to an auxiliary crossmember	Independent wheels, McPherson type with lower crosswise wishbones secured to an auxiliary crossmember	Independent wheels, McPherson type with lower crosswise wishbones secured to an auxiliary crossmember	Independent wheels, McPherson type with lower crosswise wishbones secured to an auxiliary crossmember
Rear	Interconnected wheels by means of torsion beam	Interconnected wheels by means of torsion beam	Interconnected wheels by means of torsion beam	Interconnected wheels by means of torsion beam
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase (mm)	2300	2300	2300	2300
Front/rear track (mm)	1409	1409	1409	1409
Front/rear track (mm)	1407	1407	1407	1407
Length / Width / Height (m)	L: 3653 W: 1643/1882 (without/with mirrors) H: 1551	L: 3653 W: 1643/1882 (without/with mirrors) H: 1551	L: 3653 W: 1643/1882 (without/with mirrors) H: 1551	L: 3653 W: 1643/1882 (without/with mirrors) H: 1553
VDA luggage capacity (litres)(standard – rear sliding seat forward – backrest folded down)	225 – 260 – 870	225 – 260 – 870	225 – 260 – 870	225 – 260 – 870
WHEELS
Tyres	175/65 R14 82T	175/65 R14 82T	175/65 R14 82T	175/65 R14 82T
(*) = Optional	185/55 R15 82T	185/55 R15 82T	185/55 R15 82T	185/55 R15 82T
Space-saver wheel opt. 803	135/80 R14 84M	135/80 R14 84M	135/80 R14 84M	135/80 R14 84M
ELECTRIC EQUIPMENT (12 V)
Battery capacity (Ah)	40 Ah	63 Ah	63 Ah	63 Ah
Alternator: max. current (A)	90A (heated / A/C)	105A (heated)	105A (heated)	105A (heated)
Alternator: max. current (A)	90A (heated / A/C)	120A (A/C)	120A (A/C)	120A (A/C)
WEIGHT – CAPACITIES
*(TYPE-APPROVED WEIGHTS)*
Service weight DIN (kg)	940	1035	975	^{Undergoing type-approval}
Fuel tank capacity (litres)	37	37	37	37
Payload including driver	500 (5 seat version)	500 (5 seat version)	500 (5 seat version)	^{Undergoing type-approval}
Payload including driver	480 (4 seat version)	480 (4 seat version)	480 (4 seat version)	^{Undergoing type-approval}
Max towing weight	800 (braked) 400 (non-braked)	900 (braked) 400 (non-braked)	800 (braked) 400 (non-braked)	^{Undergoing type-approval}
PERFORMANCE
Maximum speed (km/h)	164	168	177	159
Acceleration (sec.): 0 – 100 km/h	14.2	12.8	11.2	15.7
CONSUMPTION EEC (l/100km)
According to Directive 1999/100/EC
Urban, extra-urban, combined cycle	6.7/4.3/5.2	4.7/3.5/3.9	5.0/3.8/4.2 (2)	^{Undergoing type-approval}
CO₂(g/km)	120	104	99	99

1) Only for TwinAir with ECO button pressed:

Max EC power: kW (HP) at rpm			57 (77.5) at 5500 rpm
EC max. torque: Nm at rpm			100 at 2000 rpm

2) MTA version:

Urban, extra-urban, combined cycle			4.8/3.7/4.1
CO₂(g/km)			95

Source: FIAT

December 15, 2011

2012 Gas-Free Ford Focus Electric

Another huge manufacturer to go “green” is no surprise – FORD. The all-new, gasoline-free Ford Focus Electric is the first Ford model which is all-electric passenger car with zero-CO₂-emissions. This version of Ford’s popular small car has the ability to achieve the equivalent of 100 miles per gallon fuel efficiency rating with seating for five persons. In addition the vehicle is also a pioneer in the class of all-electric cars which is going to feature a faster charging technology, allowing it to fully recharge in three to four hours. In comparison the Nissan Leaf charges for a double time! Hence, this technology can help double the car’s range during a busy day of driving and recharging numerous times. Another advantage of the above mentioned improvement is that it can help clients save money! A benefit to be seriously considered, isn’t it?

For the 2012 Ford Focus Electric orders have already being taken. They have started in November through Certified Electric Vehicle Dealers in California and New York/New Jersey markets. But don’t worry if you want to purchase it, because in the forthcoming 2012 the availability of the vehicle will expand to another 15 markets.

Ford had put 20 years of research of the innovations in electrified cars, some of which can be seen in the presented one. The aim of the manufacturers however, is to bring the customers fuel-efficient vehicles without sacrificing performance, capability or dynamic driving experience. Moreover Ford Focus Electric is expected to be competitive with other comparable all-electric vehicles.

First to be highlighted here is Focus Electric’s advanced lithium-ion (li-ion) battery system with an advanced active liquid cooling and heating system to precondition and regulate the temperature in its larger, more complex battery system. To be more precise the active liquid system heats or chills a coolant before pumping it through the battery cooling system. What this loop does is to regulate the temperature throughout the system against the external conditions. For instance on hot days, chilled liquid absorbs heat from the batteries, dispersing it through a radiator before pumping it through the chiller again. On the other hand, on cold days, heated liquid warms the batteries, gradually bringing the system’s temperature number, which allows it to efficiently accept charge energy and provide enough discharge power for the car’s performance. Another innovation that is to be mentioned is the endurance and the long life of the batteries. Interesting is that exactly around this feature Ford has made numerous tests and developments since 1980s. Up to nowadays, among the nearly 43 million battery cells Ford has tested or seen put to work in customer vehicles, only five issues have been documented.

To keep up with the trend, which is to go green and be more fuel efficient, Ford has developed Focus Electric. Moreover it has a unique option “set it and forget it”, which concerns the value charging and is powered by Microsoft. What it does is to notify owners to charge their cars when the utility rates are lower. The goal here is to help customers avoid unnecessary expenses by providing an improved charging solution. The highlight here is that Ford Focus Electric is the first all-electric vehicle which offers a faster charging technology, allowing a full recharge in three to four hours with the 240-volt charge station! Next innovation that has been included in the vehicle is a result of the collaboration between Ford and SunPower Corp. They offer customers a rooftop solar system that can provide enough clean, renewable energy to offset the electricity used to charge the car. No doubt that this brand new technology is going to be very appealing to all concerned about the environment! Furthermore the car’s charge port, which is located on the left front fender, activates a light ring that illuminates the port twice when plugged in. Then the light ring illuminates in quadrants as the car charges, where each quadrant represents 25 percent of the maximum battery charge. You can plug off the car when the entire ring is solidly lit, then the car is fully charged and ready to be driven.

Another benefit comes from Focus Electric’s SYNC^®with MyFord Touch^® driver connect technology, which was specifically developed for electric car owners and shows important information. Next, the system’s MyView feature allows the accessibility of more vehicle data. Drivers can also enter destinations, including their next charge point, into the car’s MyFord Touch map-based navigation system. In this way the car will instruct drivers on the perfect way to access the desired range, or will give an advice if travel plans need to be changed. Furthermore the on-board navigation system provides an EcoRoute option based on characteristics of efficient electric vehicle driving. Going further into the innovations, we have to mention the Focus Electric’s next-generation SmartGauge^® with EcoGuide fuel economy coaching system. It features a cluster display that uses blue butterflies to represent the surplus range beyond the driver’s charge point destination. For example, the more butterflies there are, the more surplus you have to get to your final destination. An easy and fun way to be reminded, isn’t it? And at the end of each trip, a display screen provides the distance driven, miles gained through regenerative braking, energy consumed and a comparative gasoline savings.

As every up-to-date car, Ford Focus Electric has a remote control with which the owners will have constant contact with the car anywhere they have a mobile phone signal. This is going to be possible through the use Ford-developed MyFord^® Mobile application, which enables access via a smartphone or Web-based interface. For example, with this feature you can receive instant vehicle status information or perform key functions remotely, monitor the car’s state of charge and current range or get alerts when the car requires charging or has finished charging. You can even locate charge stations and plan routes to find them! Furthermore the feature also allows the owner to program the car to use electricity from the grid to heat or cool the cabin while plugged in. As an instance, during hot days, the car can be programmed the evening before to be fully charged and fully cooled to a particular temperature by a specific time the next morning. Using the MapQuest^®, MyFord Mobile can access charge station information and other points of interest to Focus Electric.

And if you wonder about the driving experience here are some details you need to know. First of all, the all-electric powertrain and single-speed transmission provide immediate responsiveness and smooth acceleration. The maximum speed you can achieve is 84 mph (136 kmh). Furthermore the steering, handling and braking feel is shared with the agile, sporty, fuel-powered five-door hatchback Focus model upon which it’s based. Having all this in mind and along with it, the vehicle’s absence of gasoline or diesel engine and its outstanding aerodynamics result to a quiet, comfortable driving experience. Ford of course have thought about the safety, and has featured in the vehicle six airbags, electronic traction control and MyKey^®for North America. Moreover the vehicle is a pioneer in the100 percent sustainable clean technologies, used in interior materials. They include seat fabrics with REPREVE^®–branded fiber made from recycled plastic bottles in the seat fabric. Another feature that comes as a standard are the 15-spoke 17-inch aluminum wheels, a 60/40 split rear bench seat, push-button start, AM/FM/CD/MP3 Sony^® Audio with nine speakers, SiriusXM Satellite Radio and HD Radio^™. There is a free, three-year subscription to SYNC Services as well. They will provide every driver with the access to information about traffic, news, sports, weather, horoscopes, stock quotes and movie listings, along with business searches and turn-by-turn directions.

Source: FORD

December 14, 2011

2012 Vorsteiner BMW 1-Series M Coupe GTS-V Teaser

Vorsteiner is surprising us with a teaser image of the upcoming and freshly tuned BMW 1-Series M Coupe GTS-V. The California-based tuning company has just shared few details of what it will be included in this make-over of the 1M. First the body kit features a front spoiler with Integrated Brake Duct System Carbon Fiber Pre-Preg. Next there will also be a rear diffuser replacement with extended aero fins and signature GTS-V designed splitters Carbon Fiber Pre-Preg. In addition, another element which was fabricated from Carbon Fiber Pre-Preg is the lightweight boot lid replacement wing profile element.

Furthermore with this tuning you’ll get the very special Cat Back sport exhaust system, which unlike the previous parts is made from titanium. We can’t go further without mentioning the tires, which of course were carefully modified by Vorsteiner’s brilliant designers! The 1M GTS-V has the 19 or 20 inch Forged Concave Wheels, thank to which you’ll have and excellent and exciting drive! At last, the designers have thought about the uniqueness of the interior too, and thus supplying it with special embroidered floor mats with orange piping!

First orders will start shipping in late January 2011! Stay tuned for more information around this incredible tuning with the official release of the program early next week!

2012 Vorsteiner BMW 1-Series M Coupe GTS-V

Source: Vorsteiner

December 13, 2011

2012 Volvo V60 Diesel Plug-in Hybrid

Probably the new 2012 Volvo V60 Diesel Plug-in Hybrid is the most technically advanced Volvo model ever! And not only comparing to Volvo, but also it is extremely more advanced compared to other hybrids on the market! If you ask why, well the reasons for this are numerous. Firstly, the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid is the world’s first diesel plug-in hybrid. It is a technical achievement because it is an electric car, hybrid car and muscle-car all rolled into one. And here’s the catch: at the mere touch of a button you can choose which of your three cars you want to drive at any given moment in time! Isn’t that almost magical!

The manufacturers have decided that this car will be offered just production in just one colour, which is Electric Silver. If you plan to order this unique Hybrid, you can do it in the start of 2012, and the first cars will be built in the autumn of that year. The hybrid was firstly unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in 2011, and since then received a lot of attention, due to its spectacular silver colour, exclusive interior and generous standard equipment!

For example the first 1,000 units of the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid are only available in Electric Silver. The vehicle is also distinguished by aero-designed 17-inch wheels, integrated exhaust tailpipes and a number of bodywork features in glossy black, such as the grille and the aerodynamic front spoiler. Moeover, the chromed “Plug-in Hybrid” emblem is found both on the lower part of the tailgate and in a smaller version on the front wings.

To go further into details, the interior of the V60 Plug-in Hybrid is exclusively designed! It features black leather upholstery with contrasting stitching and inlays of blue-grey wood. In addition to make it more distinctive, the interior includes details of a leather-covered steering wheel, specially designed mats and a gear lever knob with integrated indicator. Furthermore in the list of standard equipment have been included features such as speed-dependent power steering, electrically adjustable driver’s seat, parking sensors front and rear, Bluetooth phone link and Volvo on Call. As standard equipment you will also get the High Performance Multimedia DVD audio system with its 4×40 W amplifier, eight loudspeakers and seven-inch screen! And all this in order to have the best drive!

Next to be mentioned is that the V60 Plug-in Hybrid is the first model to be launched with an entirely digital Driver Information Monitor (DIM). Here the conventional analogue gauges have been replaced by a one-piece LED screen with large number of display options. Therefore the driver can choose which information to show via the car’s menu setup. Further innovation is that the driver can communicate with the car via a mobile app, thus giving the owner access to a number of smart functions such as air conditioning, pre-cooling and after-cooling, and a reminder to connect the charge cable if this has not been done by a predetermined time.

Moreover this Volvo is also the first to be “wearing” the D6 badge on its tailgate. The reason is that the combined performance of the five-cylinder turbodiesel and electric motor puts the car firmly within the same horsepower range as the petrol powered T6. In addition the front wheels of the V60 Plug-in Hybrid are powered by a five-cylinder 2.4-litre turbodiesel producing 158 kW (215 hp) and maximum torque is 440 Nm (325 lb-ft). Another detail is that the car has a six-speed automatic transmission. Next o be highlighted about the hybrid is the rear axle, which is powered by an electric motor producing 70 horsepower. Additionally the electric motor is supplied with power from an 11.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack installed under the floor of the load compartment. To be more precise the sophisticated and exceptionally compact battery pack consists of 10 modules each containing 20 cells. Moreover, an integrated computer monitors the system and compares temperature and charge level in each of the 200 cells. The battery pack also has an integrated water-cooling system driven by the car’s climate unit.

What is very special about the new V60 Plug-in Hybrid is that it offers three driving modes, which makes possible the car to “include” three other cars in itself. This happens when the driver selects the required driving mode via three buttons that give the car three entirely different temperaments: Pure, Hybrid or Power. Through the first mode, the Vehicle is powered solely by its electric motor as much as possible. Note that if the battery pack has been recharged with electricity from renewable sources, its range is up to 50 kilometers! You’ll also go “eco” all the way because of the carbon dioxide emissions which are zero. The electric range varies with terrain, climate and driving style. In the next “Hybrid” mode, which is also the standard setting whenever the car is started, the diesel engine works along with the electric motor and thus way ensuring optimal balance between driving pleasure and environmental footprint. Here CO2 emission (NEDC, mixed driving cycle for certification) is 49g/km, corresponding to diesel consumption of 1.9l/100km. This time the car has a total range of up to 1,000km. The last mode named “Power” is the technological optimization utilized by the manufacturers. The aim was to provide the car with the maximum possible power. Here the diesel engine and electric motor have a total power output of 215+70 horsepower and maximum torque of 440+200Nm. The electric motor’s lightning-quick torque delivery contributes to the car’s acceleration from 0 to 100km/h in 6.2 seconds.

Additional option in the Hybrid concerns the battery, in which the driver can choose to save its power in order to drive on pure electricity later on. For example this is a good idea when one is in an urban green zone or in the heart of a city. When Save is activated, the on-board system ensures that there is always sufficient charge for driving later in “Pure” mode. And of course if it is necessary, the high-tension generator will charge the battery pack so there is sufficient capacity for driving in “Pure” mode. The goal is ensure there is sufficient battery power for about 20 kilometers of driving on electricity alone.

Great news about the V60 Plug-in Hybrid is that it can be recharged from a regular power outlet (230V/6A, 10A or 16A). This can happen at home or in a parking lot, where the recharging time varies with the amperage. For example a full charge with 10A takes 4.5 hours, or 3.5 hours with 16A, while a 6A charge takes 7.5 hours.

Additionally of you want to feel more comfortable, there is an option which is heating or cooling the passenger compartment while recharging the car. This also means that more battery power is used for actually propelling the car. The pre-conditioning function can also cool the batteries. The perfect temperature for the battery pack is 20-30°C. This means that cooling prior to driving is very important in order to maximize battery charge and thus also range. The V60 Plug-in Hybrid has two heating systems: in electric mode the car uses a PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) air heater, and on the other hand it also has a diesel-powered heater.

The vehicle has a special AWD button, which activates the electrical four-wheel drive. Instead of the mechanical power transfer of conventional four-wheel drive, the central control unit distributes power between the diesel-driven front wheels and the electrically-driven rear axle. The aim is to be provided a better grip when starting and when driving on slippery roads. Nevertheless, owing to the electric motor’s lower power, torque to the rear wheels is limited and four-wheel drive is active up to 120 km/h. When four-wheel drive is activated, the diesel engine operates continuously and the generator ensures that the charge level in the battery pack is sufficient to supply the rear axle with the necessary power. The electric four-wheel drive is more economically efficient because it is an option which is being activated by the driver when necessary.

At last in the vehicle is included a two-stage braking system. This is another smart feature of the Volvo Plug-in Hybrid. The reason for this is because when the driver presses the brake pedal, the system starts breaking the rear axle’s electric motor. This braking energy is then used to recharge the car’s battery pack. Hence the mechanical brakes are activated only when the situation requires more braking power than the rear axle can provide.

Source: Volvo

December 13, 2011

2012 Hyundai Elantra Touring

The new Elantra Touring will give the customers all the difference they want to make in their lives. This is possible thank to the five-door versatility, and all the changes in the features, packages and options for 2012. Hence, the 2012 Elantra Touring continues to add value in the compact car segment!

Elantra Touring GLS continues to offer exclusive options as a standard. For example there are standard air conditioning, EZ Lane Change Assist, headlight welcome function, power windows, heated mirrors, power door locks, remote keyless entry with alarm and plenty of storage compartments. Furthermore it offers as a standard advanced safety technologies including Electronic Stability Control (ESC). And to make it more exciting the audiosystem included is an integrated 172-watt AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 with six speakers and iPod/USB/Auxiliary inputs. And to repeat: all of this is standard!

Of course there is an optional package, called Preferred Package. It includes 16-inch alloy wheels with P205/55R16 tires. In addition the Preferred Package also features silver roof rails, a telescopic steering wheel, trip computer, steering wheel mounted audio controls, eight-way driver’s seat with lumbar support, dual illuminated vanity mirrors, sliding sunvisors, seatback pockets, retractable cargo cover, illuminated ignition and premium cloth interior.

For the customers who are keen on sport cars, there is a sport-oriented SE. It includes all the equipment in the GLS Preferred Equipment Package, but also adds new standard leather seats, heated front seats, a power sunroof with tilt and slide functions, leather steering wheel and shift knob, B&M Racing sport shifter (M/T), fog lights and 17-inch alloy wheels with P215/45R17 low profile tires.

The designers have made the exterior with flowing curves and strong character lines, thus highlighting the broad stance and long wheelbase of the Elantra Touring. The clearly defined, unbroken, rising beltline unifies the vehicle’s functional proportions. As a result therefore we have an exciting shape that provides a dynamic impression of performance and capability. Moreover Elantra Touring has a low coefficient of drag for optimal fuel efficiency at highway speeds and minimal interior noise. To complete the contemporary design there has been included sharp projection headlamps, available fog lights and available 17-inch alloy wheels.

The long wheelbase of the vehicle provides more spacious interior. Furthermore the interior was made with the aim to provide class-leading comfort, which is both functional and practical. In fact, Elantra Touring cargo capacity is 65.3 cubic feet (with the rear seats folded down), thus making more space in the cargo than any other five-door in its class.

And in order to have an exciting driving experience there’s an optional B&M Racing sport shifter (M/T) and tilt, and telescopic steering wheel. contribute to a superior driving experience. On the other hand the duotone beige interior trim, delivers a first class feel. The customers have two options to choose the color of the interior: black or beige.

Furthermore the Elantra Touring includes a telescopic steering wheel, conveniently located steering wheel audio/cruise controls and column stalks, easy-to-reach heating and air conditioning knobs, as well as conveniently positioned power windows and mirror controls. Moreover, even the positioning and precise feel of the automatic gearshift has been improved. The front seats are designed to complement the driving dynamics of the vehicle, and carefully contoured rear seats provide long distance comfort and support.

Elantra Touring has extraordinary exterior dimensions: 176.6 inches long, 69.5 inches wide and 59.8 inches high, thus providing the vehicle a good place in the compact five-door segment cars. On the other hand its long wheelbase (106.3 inches) means that Elantra Touring offers class-leading interior volume. In addition, every Elantra Touring has 60/40 split folding rear seats for added storage, functionality and practicality. Furthermore the Elantra Touring includes a number of convenient and standard storage features such as sunglass holder, two front and two rear cupholders, door bottle holders, dash storage, central console storage, front storage tray, and a cargo area under-floor storage. For tailgaters, the cargo area also has a 12-volt outlet for using portable electronic devices, even when the vehicle is not on.

To go further into details, Elantra Touring is powered by a 2.0-liter, in-line four-cylinder. This sophisticated 16-valve powerplant employs Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC) and Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) for a very broad power band, coupled with high fuel efficiency and low emissions. Having all this in mind you won’t be surprised that the Elantra Touring is certified as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV). In addition, an ergonomically located gated gear shift controls the Elantra Touring’s four-speed automatic transmission delivering confident mode selection. A unique-in-segment optional B&M Racing sport shifter delivers smooth, short-throw shift control for the standard five-speed manual transmission.

With the Hyundai Elantra Touring the experience while driving is dynamic and exciting! The reason for this is the MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension, which have been fitted to perfectly complement the body structure’s high rigidity. The excellent stopping power with added handling control is provided thank to the ventilated 11.8-inch front and solid 10.3-inch rear discs with ABS and Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

As usual Hyundai has though for the safety and has made improvement in this technology. For example a key development goal for the Elantra Touring was the top-tier safety, which is fully equipped to protect driver and passengers. In addition it also includes dual front, side and curtain airbags, for a total of six protective airbags in the vehicle. The Elantra Touring also features active front head restraints, seatbelt pretensioners and a seatbelt reminder. For instance the combination of side and curtain airbags can reduce fatal accidents by more than 52 percent, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Source: Hyundai

December 13, 2011

2012 Ford Ranger – 5 Star Euro NCAP rating

2012 Ford Ranger has achieved a maximum 5 Star rating under the Euro NCAP crash test protocol.The Ranger scored 89% for overall safety, which is the best score ever earned by a pick-up truck.

“Vehicle safety is a core value at Ford Motor Company and these independent test results confirm that not only is Ranger the highest rated vehicle in its class, it is also one of the highest rated vehicles ever assessed by Euro NCAP,” said Stephen Odell, chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe.

“No one wants to be involved in an accident but if the worst were to happen, the new Ranger is proven to provide outstanding protection to occupants of all ages as well as pedestrians.”, he added.

“With such good pedestrian protection, the Ford Ranger is undoubtedly raising the bar of safety in the category of pick-up trucks, which had until now not proven to be the safest.”, finished Michiel van Ratingen, Euro NCAP secretary general.

Using sophisticated computer modelling, engineers assessed more than 9 000 virtual crash tests before any of the 110 actual vehicle crash tests or 410 system sled tests were undertaken. These virtual simulations allowed the engineers to optimise the vehicle structure and safety systems to provide the maximum levels of protection possible in a wide-range of real-world collisions. All this was achieved before any real prototype vehicle was built and subjected to crash testing.

2012 Ranger comes with side curtain airbags, new side airbags, front airbags and driver’s knee airbag. All these come as standard as well as three-point safety belts for all seating positions, with pre-tensioners and load limiter for the front seats.

On top of the occupant safety technologies, the all-new Ranger has been engineered with the latest pedestrian protection features. This includes a “hexageneous” under-bonnet structure to reduce the potential for pedestrian head injuries, and a pedestrian-friendly front bumper design incorporating energy-absorbing materials.

Last, but not least, the new Ranger features Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) that uses advanced sensors to constantly monitor the vehicle’s behaviour and assist stability and control. There are also Adaptive Load Control provides additional stability assurance for drivers dealing with heavy payloads and Hill Descent Control ensures that the brakes will be applied to control the vehicle at a set speed. Or when stopping on a steep grade, Hill Launch Assist helps the driver to pull away confidently without creeping backwards, even when fully laden.

Source: Ford

October 26, 2011

Tag: 2012