Geneva Motor Show – Page 2 – Automobiles Review

World Premiere For 2014 Citroen C3 At Geneva Motor Show

2014 Citroen C3 will make a world debut at the 83rd Geneva Motor Show next month. The C3 model was launched back in 2002 and since then it has achieved a major success in the automotive industry. Now the popular model comes with as fresh features that strengthen and enhance its appeal.

This Citroen is prepared for official market launch in early summer 2013. Here the “Créative Technologie” is featured as a panoramic Zenith windscreen, the efficient engines deliver CO2 emissions as low as 87g/km, and more personality is achieved through assertive styling, a revitalized front end and new tail lights.

First of all, the exterior of the new Citroen C3 has soft curves with dynamic taut lines. The front end is entirely restyled and creates a new ‘face’ with updated chevrons and bumper-mounted LED daytime running lights.

Additionally, expressive new tail light clusters matched together with new reflectors are set underneath the rear bumper. The range’s palette now comprises of nine colours thanks to the addition of the new Ink blue body paint.

Secondly, the interior is finely crafted with top-quality materials, including chrome detailing and a thermo-coated soft-touch dashboard. This can be emphasized through the new dashboard strips in matt black, a warm brown or Moondust grey, which coordinate with the new style upholstery. The instrument cluster is also backlit in white for a modern look.

Although the exterior dimensions of this vehicle are in general compact: 3.94m long and 1.71m wide – with a 10.8m turning circle, the new C3 offers a spacious and practical interior. For instance, it includes 300-litre boot which is among the largest in its class. The semi-high seats deliver easy access and give occupants a commanding view of their surroundings.

Furthermore, the unique Zenith windscreen included in the C3 provides greater visibility. In particular, it increases the upward field of vision for front passengers by 80° and when it is combined with ultra-slim pillars it gives a panoramic view of the road ahead. In addition, the screen will also offer to the occupants a solar protection at the top, which gradually merges into clear glass for an optimum field of vision.

What is more, the comfort of the driving experience is enhanced via the reversing camera and parking sensors. The convenience is increased via technology features such as an RD4 MP3 audio system, Connecting Box (Bluetooth hands-free kit, jack plug and USB socket), eMyWay navigation and a powerful HiFi System.

In terms of power, C3 has new-generation PureTech 3-cylinder petrol engines with a 1.0 or 1.2-litre capacity. Although lively and responsive to drive, they are also fuel and CO2 efficient. For example, the VTi 68 and VTi 82 PureTech engines achieve impressively low fuel consumption, between 62.8 and 65.7mpg, and CO2 emissions between 99 and 104g/km.

And in addition, 2014 Citroen C3 is to be offered with four diesel engines – HDi 70, e-HDi 70, HDi 90 and e-HDi 115. Three of them include micro-hybrid e-HDi technology with the Stop & Start system, thanks to which the C3 makes one of the best fuel efficiency and lowest CO2 emissions cars in its class.

Source: Citroen

February 22, 2013

McLaren P1 To Deliver The Staggering 903 Horsepower

It is official! McLaren P1 is going to deliver the staggering 903 horsepower! The model will have the combined force of two highly-efficient powerplants: a mid-mounted 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine and a highly effective electric motor.

Both will offer a combined output of 903 hp (664 kW) and a maximum torque figure of 900Nm (664 lb-ft), ensuring instantaneous throttle response through the rev range, more akin to a naturally aspirated engine.

Furthermore, the emissions here are rated to be less than 200g/km on the combined cycle and are reduced to zero in full electric drive mode. On the other hand the Formula 1-derived DRS and IPAS technologies offer enhancement in straight-line speed and an instant boost of power.

But to go into details, the 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine in P1 is a new version of the familiar M838T unit. This engine block has a unique casting in order to feature the electric motor.

Here, the petrol engine produces 727 hp (535 kW) at 7,500rpm, and 720 Nm (531 lb-ft) of torque from 4,000rpm, while the lightweight electric motor produces 76 bhp (130 kW) and a maximum torque of 260 Nm (192 lb-ft).

What is more, in this McLaren model is featured also a “boost” system called IPAS which provides up to 179 hp instantly. The instant response of the electric motor provides a sharper throttle response more associated with a normally aspirated engine, and the significantly enhanced air-charging system enables the McLaren P1 to have more top-end power.

The electric motor is mounted directly onto the engine. The power of both units is channeled through the dual-clutch seven-speed gearbox to drive the rear wheels. Another advantage here is that the e-motor can provide faster upshifts through the application of instant negative torque at the point of shift, making the engine revs drop as quickly and efficiently as possible to the required engine speed for the upshift.

What also has been revealed for the P1 is that it can be driven in a variety of modes, powered by the engine and electric motor together, or solely by the electric motor. Of course, the maximum power is delivered when both powerplants are utilized together together.

However, even in E-mode the performance is strong enough. E-mode is the most economical mode available with zero tailpipe emissions, in which the vehicle can travel more than 10 km with electric-only power. When the battery is empty, the petrol engine will automatically start to maintain drive and charge the battery.

Additional technology highlights featured in this new McLaren model are the DRS (Drag Reduction System) and IPAS (Instant Power Assist System)., which enhance the power available via the petrol engine and electric motor.

The first system is a technology similar to that employed on Formula 1 cars. Speed is increased by reducing the amount of drag on the rear wing and, where the MP4-28 has a moveable flap on the rear wing, the McLaren P1™ has a wing that reduces in angle to lower drag by 23%. The system immediately deactivates when the button is released, or if the driver touches the brake pedal.

The other system – IPAS, is designed in order to offer power rapidly for high performance acceleration, and provides 179 hp of instant additional power. In addition, in this system the power delivery was prioritized over energy storage, through a groundbreaking, lightweight battery pack, which offers greater power density.

The latter has been achieved through high power cells, low pack weight and an innovative cooling system all working together. The battery weighs only 96kg, and is mounted onto the underbody of the high-strength Formula 1-grade carbon fibre MonoCage chassis. The battery can be charged via the engine or via a plug-in charger that can recharge it from empty in only two hours.

Additional details for the McLaren P1 will be released in the coming weeks before its official world debut in Geneva next month.

Source: McLaren

February 21, 2013

Interior Elements Of Rolls-Royce Wraith Revealed [TEASER]

The 2013 Geneva Motor Show is near and hence more and more companies are revealing their upcoming new vehicles. We have been already introduced to some teasers of Rolls-Royce Wraith showing its front and profile.

Now the luxury brand is unveiling the third official image of its newest model. The car will include a luxurious, contemporary interior which will complement the dynamic poise of its exterior styling.

This Rolls-Royce has nothing else but luxury and hand-craftsmanship work inside. Furthermore, thanks to the inclusion of softest ‘Phantom-grade’ leathers and expanses of open pore wood named Canadel Panelling, the model will add even more individualism.

In fact, the interior theme looks so contemporary that it hints of an ultra-luxury yacht. The horseshoe sweep of Wraith’s cabin also echoes the cove at Le Canadel in the South of France where Sir Henry Royce and his design team spent their winters.

In addition, it is important to mention that every possible interior detail has been carefully considered. The result is a beautiful execution even of the tiniest details. The clock, for instance, is presented with Blood Orange needle tips that point to the car’s dynamic potential, while paying tribute to brand’s aviation heritage.

Of course, Rolls-Royce Wraith is entirely built by hand. The model which will be launched at the Geneva Motor Show on 5 March 2013.

Source: Rolls-Royce

February 19, 2013

Chevrolet Spark EV at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show

Chevrolet will exhibit the new Spark EV at this year’s Geneva Motor Show. The car will be sold in select European markets as of 2014 model. The Chevrolet Spark EV is anticipated to set a benchmark in performance for an urban city electric car and is powered by the most advanced electric motor and battery system General Motors has ever built.

The Spark EV is powered by an electric motor with 136HP (100 kW) and 542Nm (401 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 8.5 seconds. The car comes with a lithium-ion battery system of more than 20 kWh that operates with the help of an active liquid cooling and heating system. Thanks to the sophisticated technology of its battery pack, the Spark EV is expected to achieve an electric range that is among the best in its class.

DC fast charging will allow the car to recharge up to 80 % of its capacity in approximately 20 minutes. Moreover, the battery system is capable of handling multiple DC fast charges daily. AC recharging requires between 6 and 8 hours, using a 230V outlet. A charge cord set is standard.

Other innovation is the Chevrolet MyLink connected radio technology coming as standard. It allows users to connect compatible smartphones to the radio with its high resolution touch screen. Chevrolet MyLink will support a number of select of apps which will allow users to navigate using their smartphone, and listen to radio stations around the world through the internet. A rear-view camera will provide assistance when the car is in reverse.

Source: Chevrolet

February 14, 2013

Rolls-Royce Teases Wraith Ahead of Geneva

Rolls-Royce has just teased once again the upcoming new Rolls-Royce Wraith. The second image of company’s next model comes to promote a hand-built vehicle that exudes luxury and comfort whilst possessing a character defined by Power, Style and Drama.

For 108 years Rolls-Royce has been present on the market, delivering effortless power. The latest image of the new Wraith depicts muscular rear haunches that speak for dynamic performance and a sense that this is a car set to move with purpose on its driver’s command.

Rolls-Royce Wraith will be revealed at the Geneva Motor Show on 5 March 2013.

Source: Rolls-Royce

February 12, 2013

McLaren P1 at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show

McLaren Automotive has confirmed that the global debut of the production-ready McLaren P1 will be at the 83rd Geneva Motor Show.

The manufacturer has released a short video revealing the awesome sound of the sports car. It will dopt a race-inspired digital dash readout, and gives further information relating to the levels of performance that can be expected with a highly-focused “Race” mode.

On selecting Race mode, the large double element adjustable ‘active’ rear wing extends, and the pitch of the wing alters into an optimal aerodynamic position. In Race mode the screen includes a bank of lights across the top, which illuminate green, followed by red and finally blue. These act as a shift indicator, as in a Formula 1 car.

Still, no performance details were revealed, but the car is expected to come with a modified version of the 3.8 liter twin-turbo V8 fitted in MP4-12C.

The McLaren Automotive press conference will take place at 11.15am CET (10.15am GMT), Tuesday 5 March.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVtCuyFSO6E

Source: McLaren

February 7, 2013

Pininfarina at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show with a Tribute to Sergio

Pininfarina will attend the 2013 Geneva Motor Show with a tribute to the man who headed the Company for 40 years and created cars which entered the legend, Life Senator Sergio Pininfarina.

He passed away in July 2012, but his work will be forever remembered. Sergio is universally recognized as the “Maestro” of Italian style. His creative genius made exceptional design solutions.

To celebrate his talent and his work, Pininfarina will present as a world premiere in Geneva a concept car, which renews the spirit of the extraordinary achievements born from Sergio Pininfarina’s pencil, translating it into a modern vision in the name of exclusivity, innovation and passion.

The tribute is named after Mr. Pininfarina – Sergio. The Concept will be uveiled on March 5, 2013 at 1pm on the Pininfarina stand.

Source: Pininfarina

February 6, 2013

Kia Concept at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show

Kia will present its latest Concept Car at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

The provocative and racy new urban concept car has the company’s signature tiger-nose morphing into a mischievous yet friendly grille and headlight arrangement, coupled with strong styling lines that exude speed and energy from every angle.

The new Concept by Kia definitely will catch the eyes of the visitors.

Still, no information about performance or engines are available.

However, it could turn out to be a preview concept of a future Nissan Juke rival.

Source: Kia

January 23, 2013

Qoros will Exhibit First Production Car and Two Concepts in 2013 Geneva Motor Show

Qoros will introduce one production car and two concepts – Cross Hybrid Concept and Estate Concept, at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

The Qoros model line-up is characterised by modern, German-influenced design, world-class safety technology, and the highest production quality standards. Each Qoros will feature as standard an advanced infotainment system that is unique in the automotive sector and that includes comprehensive networking, connectivity and guidance functionality.

“Intelligent modular vehicle platform technology allows us to create new vehicle concepts quickly and efficiently,” commented Vice Chairman of Qoros Auto Co. Ltd. Volker Steinwascher.

“The Qoros GQ3 is the first of many models that will be based on this platform, and the technology will allow us to develop a complete model family in a very efficient manner.”, he added.

The production-ready Qoros GQ3 showcases the rapid pace at which the manufacturer is approaching the market launch of its first model. The elegant sedan has a sporty profile with a long wheelbase, short overhangs and a coupé-like silhouette, yet allows for unusually generous interior space for a vehicle in the compact segment.

A comprehensive standard specification is also accompanied by safety technology that meets the very highest standards, and the Qoros GQ3 is targeting top scores in both European and Chinese crash tests.

The Qoros GQ3 showcases an advanced infotainment that represents a technological first for the car industry that will be standard across all Qoros models.

Source: Qoros

January 18, 2013

Volvo V40 Priced $31 501 in the UK

The Volvo V40 5-door hatchback which debuted last month at the Geneva Motor Show is ready for sale at a starting price of $31,501. It’s packed full of equipment and safety features one wouldn’t normally find on any other entry level car.

The basic trim line will be marked with an ES. But basic in Swedish terms is far what one would imagine – City Safety, pedestrian airbag, Bluetooth, high performance audio with 5″ colour display screen, ECC (Electronic Climate Control), 16″ Matres alloy wheels, DSTC (Dynamic Stability and Traction Control), power windows, a leather steering wheel and gear knob and textile floor mats. The SE (the next step) adds cruise control, keyless start, autofolding power door mirrors and a host of decorative luxories. There’s a LUX variation of the SE trim which sees the fitment of leather-faced upholstery, 17″ Mannan alloy wheels and LED day running lights as well as active bending xenon lights with a headlight cleaning system. All, be that ES, SE, SE Lux can come with a fully integrated satellite navigation system with voice activated control, a 7″ colour display screen and DVD player. Thus your Volvo V40 will be known as ES/SE/SE Lux Nav. It makes your head spin, we know.

The diesel D2 power plant in the V40 achieves an impressive figure of 78.5 mpg and spews out less than 100 g/km of CO2 emissions. Considering that we are talking about a 1.6 liter block that develops 115 hp, mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, that is quite a feat. There is of course a Start/Stop function (here and everywhere else).

If it’s the most expensive model you’re after than better prepare a considerably more heafty sum of money. Let’s say $42, 705. For that you get the SE Lux Nav with a D4 177hp diesel engine unit. Not as economical as the D2, but still frugal enough and considerably more fun to drive.

Orders can already be placed, production starts sometime in May and delieries are expected to start in September this year.

Soruce: Volvo

April 12, 2012

Pininfarina Cambiano named most beautiful concept car

If you have followed thoroughly this year’s edition of 2012 Geneva Motor Show, then you have probably seen already many beautiful cars. But have you pondered for a moment on which one appealed to you the most?

Well, if you still don’t have the answer, there has recently been made a poll, in which according to the public the most beautiful car to be seen in Geneva was the Pininfarina Cambiano Concept Car.

The competition was fierce, but nonetheless the concept vehicle has managed to gather most of the votes and gained the “the most beautiful concept of 2012 Geneva Motor Show” as well “the most beautiful concept car”.

In the poll took part other significant vehicles such as Italdesign Giugiaro Brivido, Infiniti Emerg-e, Bertone Nuccio, Range Rover Evoque Convertible Concept, and other amazing vehicles that achieved a lot of success in Geneva.

With the Cambiano, Pininfarina proposes an electric traction luxury sport sedan, which is in addition elegant and sporting, refined and comfortable. It emphasizes a pure synthesis of forefront design and engineering research with optimal attention to environment friendliness.

The new concept car embodies the Pininfarina expertise in the field of styling, design and research in the field of sustainable mobility. Undoubtedly, this concept sets a new benchmark for environment-conscious luxury vehicles. Its main strong point is the electric traction, which translates into zero emissions in the urban cycle. In fact, this is the highest all-electric range currently available on the market. This plug-in electric sedan combines top performance, excellent utility and the comfort of a luxury car.

Source: Pininfarina

March 23, 2012

2012 Geneva Motor Show: Rinspeed Dock+Go Mobility System

What is “Dock+GO”? Basically it is the innovative mind of the Rinspeed designers coming into manifestation. In fact, it is backpacks on wheels for electric vehicles. This concept vehicle was is a main attraction at 2012 Geneva Motor Show. It is specifically this third on-demand axle that is the crucial point of the innovative modular mobility system the Rinspeed has developed. The motto of the concept is simple: “Take 3!” and it is all about taking three axels instead of two. However this modification is based on the thinking “but only if you need them”! Moreover these single-axle “packs” can be used in different ways depending on what the driver has to do during the day. In addition they also have an insightful resolution for the so commonly met operating range problem of electric vehicles. The highlight is that neither unneeded space nor superfluous weight is carried along if it is not necessary. What is so special about this concept is that any electrified city speedster could serve as the basis for “Dock+Go”: for example – a two seated smart. In Geneva Rinspeed showcased a rolling “sound pack” equipped with the latest high-end sound solutions in order to guarantee a first class acoustical experience.

In addition, the vehicle includes a unique “energy pack,” fitted with a range extender or additional batteries, powered by a fuel cell or a combustion engine. They provide the crucial extra kilometers to reach more distant destinations. In details, the docked third axle drives the rotating second axle and in doing so also recharges the on-board batteries of the city speedster. In addition, when the pack with auxiliary batteries is docked and the vehicle is not utilized, the pack will even provide electricity to the owner’s private residence or serve as a buffer for the public energy grid.

And how about the exterior of this amazing and mindful project? What catches the eye immediately is the silver paint with a finish that resembles sparkling ice crystals. In addition, the car rides on Goodyear low-rolling-resistance tires in size 205/40-17 mounted on 7.5-inch AEZ rims, whose decorative silver covers are attached to red fasteners with rubber bands. On the other hand the interior is as superb as the exterior. It is all in red and black premium upholstery, which in addition includes strong natural thermoregulation, good insulation and a high capacity for absorbing moisture. Furthermore, the transparent roof and its distinctive grass inlays – as well as a number of other interior materials contribute to the comfort f the vehicle. The view ahead is dominated by a 12.1-inch monitor. It belongs to the multimedia equipment and is part of the intelligent infotainment system developed from Harman. Of course, the platform features the latest integration technologies. The steering wheel is also wrapped in red and black upholstery. In addition, in the concept vehicle are included a recently newly developed high-strength, lightweight door frames. No compromises were made regarding the handling. There is also no need to recharge the car through plugs. Instead the vehicle simply rolls onto an induction field from SEW Eurodrive for non-contact charging.

The project “Dock+Go” is definitely a different concept vehicle. First, the size of the battery and therefore the costs are depend on several factors, drive with high power, or operating range, and the Battery charging strategies. Although it has a small Battery, it has enough power to cover all the daily trips. Secondly, three instead of two axles means six instead of four wheels. No other car includes this. The AEZ engineers’ technical goal was to make the rims as light as possible, in order to set high standards for the efficiency and performance of the vehicle. Third, it is fascinating adaptable vehicle with improved range size. It also offers technical solution for the functioning of interfaces accounts not only for coupling the e-vehicle’s mechanical and electrical equipment by means of energy, space and accessory ‘Packs’, but also connecting to existing infrastructure. Furthermore, a number of innovative business models have been developed for “Dock+Go”. Hence, this concept has the unique potential to significantly reduce existing e-vehicle drawbacks in terms of range and space. In fact, what is more important is that Rinspeed’s “Dock+Go” approach relies on an existing product line – like the Smart for instance – and establishes the best conditions for profitable production in the shortest possible time. This delivers the opportunity to literally “add” the project to any present EV.

Source: Rinspeed

March 14, 2012

Tag: Geneva Motor Show