GT – Page 3 – Automobiles Review

Passion for quality and progressiveness: the new Audi e-Tron GT

The Audi e-tron GT

Passion for detail, maximum precision, and top quality: The new Audi e-tron GT reflects all the passion with which Audi develops and builds cars. For the production of the electrically powered Gran Turismo at Audi Böllinger Höfe at the Neckarsulm site, the company uses customised new technologies – however, the finishing touches are applied by highly skilled hands. And since the dynamic work of art must also sound good, Audi has brought musical flair and technical competence to bear in composing a unique sound for the e-tron GT. It sounds powerful and progressive – just as an Audi should.

Production of the Audi e-tron GT
The Audi e-tron GT is the brand’s first fully electric car to be built in Germany. The Gran Turismo will start rolling off the production line at Audi Böllinger Höfe at the Neckarsulm site at the end of 2020. The small-series production facility has been expanded, upgraded, and converted for its new role. The skilled craftsmanship from the previous facility has been retained and is supplemented by digital processes and smart technologies. During the expansion, production planners made use of new virtual methods. The tests of the work procedures on the assembly line and the logistic processes were conducted in the virtual domain for the first time, with container planning also performed with the help of VR technology. Production of the e-tron GT was designed without physical prototypes – a first at Audi.

Large areas of the body of the all-electric Gran Turismo are constructed from ultra-high-strength steel and aluminium. To produce this material mix in the planned quantities, a body shop was established that combines the skilled craftsmanship of the employees with the full potential of automated production technology. It consists of an innovative body assembly line along which each body passes twice. It is constructed around what is called the two-way framer, in which ten robots are used to attach the inner and outer side panels. It combines all manufacturing steps involved in joining the sides in a single system – thus making production of the Audi e-tron GT possible on the existing floorspace.

The inline measuring procedure for the bodies is also new. It guarantees even greater accuracy and can respond very quickly to minute deviations. At the end of the body assembly line is where precise craftsmanship comes into play: Experienced workers fit the add-on parts and check the finish of the completed body. The expressive design of the Audi e-tron GT places unusually high demands on production quality – the side wall frame, for instance, has a remarkably large draw depth of 35 centimetres (13.8 in) between its highest and lowest point.

The expanded assembly line includes 36 instead of the previous 16 cycles. The e-tron GT shares it with the R8 – this integration of two technically completely different cars is unique in the Volkswagen Group. Both models are moved using the same driverless transport vehicles and an electrically powered monorail system. At one station of the line, humans and robots work side by side. A 3D printer is also on hand to produce customised assembly aids at the employees’ request. Once completed, every car is driven for 40 kilometres (24.9 mi) on public roads, which also includes sections on the highway and in urban traffic.

“With the integration of the Audi R8 and Audi e-tron GT, a unique combination of craftsmanship and smart factory technology is coming to life at Böllinger Höfe,” says Production Head Wolfgang Schanz in summary. “I am especially proud of the passion and spirit of our team.”

The e-sound of the Audi e-tron GT
Whether it’s quality, design or technical characteristics – the Audi e-tron GT is a car packed with all the passion of Audi. This also applies to the sound of the electrically powered Gran Turismo. Engineers Rudolf Halbmeir and Stephan Gsell conceived and designed the progressive electronic sound – on the computer, in the sound laboratory, inside the moving car, and in customer studies.

As with every electric car, the e-tron GT also features the statutory acoustic vehicle alerting system (AVAS), although embedded within a broader acoustic spectrum. A loudspeaker fitted in the front of the vehicle emits the AVAS sound. For customers ordering the optional sound package, a second, large loudspeaker is added in the rear. In parallel, two loudspeakers in the interior provide an emotional sound experience. Two control units continuously remix the e-tron GT sound based on variables such as speed or accelerator position. The Audi drive select system allows drivers to set whether and how intensively they wish to experience the sound.

Facts and figures

Production

Production of the Audi e-tron GT at Audi Böllinger Höfe, which opened in 2014 at the Neckarsulm site; expansion and conversion 2019; new virtual planning methods
Head of Production Wolfgang Schanz: “Here, we are bringing a unique combination of craftsmanship and smart factory technology to life”
The body shop for the e-tron GT is around 85 percent automated; ten stations with a total of 34 robots
Optimum area management with a body assembly line along which each body passes twice; two-way framer combines multiple manufacturing steps on limited floorspace
Correlation-free inline measurement is a new technology offering the highest precision, with a maximum possible deviation of just +/-0.20 millimeters
The joint assembly line for Audi e-tron GT and Audi R8 despite their different technology concepts is unique in the Volkswagen Group
Different conveyor technologies on the assembly line: 20 driverless transport vehicles, new electrically powered overhead conveyor rail, autonomous transfer station
Human-robot cooperation for bonding the front and rear windows
Customised assembly aids from the 3D printer based on employee ideas

e-sound

Development of the e-sound for the Audi e-tron GT with musical creativity and technical competence; designed on the computer, in the sound laboratory, and in the car
32 individual sound elements; weighted and modulated based on drive management data
Optional sound package: two control units in the luggage compartment, two external loudspeakers on the car and two internal loudspeakers in the rear doors
Sound characteristics can be adjusted across multiple stages using Audi drive select

November 2, 2020

New Stonic gets noticed this autumn with ‘GT-LINE’ available for the first time

2021 KIA Stonic GT-Line1

Kia’s new Stonic is not an SUV that likes to be upstaged, and so for the 2021 model year, the updated compact sports utility vehicle is available with six even brighter and more colourful hues. For the first time, ‘GT-Line’ variants of the Stonic are available to customers.

But that’s only part of the story, as the upgraded Stonic now features a range of efficient new ‘Smartstream’ 1.0-litre T-GDi petrol powertrains, with cutting-edge innovations that boost efficiency, including Kia’s new 48-volt mild-hybrid ‘EcoDynamics+’ technology. It is available with the company’s new ‘clutch-by-wire’ intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT) or slick seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (7DCT).

Inside, Kia’s new Phase II UVO Connect telematics system is combined with a new, larger 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a navigation system as standard on ‘GT-Line’, ‘Connect’ and ‘GT-Line S’ editions. UVO Connect’s Phase II system provides customers with several new benefits, such as more accurate journey times and ‘last-mile’ navigation assistance, as well as a range of features to enhance connectivity and usability. These can be accessed through an enhanced UVO smartphone app or via the car’s touchscreen.

New ‘Smartstream’ powertrains, the ‘EcoDynamics+’ mild-hybrid powertrain and new intelligent Manual Transmission
The enhancements to the latest Stonic includes the launch of Kia’s brand-new petrol Mild-Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) ‘EcoDynamics+’ powertrain. It mates a 118bhp 1.0-litre T-GDi (Turbocharged Gasoline Direct injection) ‘Smartstream’ engine with a 48-volt MHEV system, delivering enhanced efficiency by seamlessly harvesting and later releasing energy recovered during slowing down and when braking. A compact 48-volt lithium-ion battery pack combines with the engine’s torque output with electric power and can extend engine ‘off time’ with a new Mild Hybrid Starter Generator (MHSG) unit.

The MHSG is connected to the engine’s crankshaft by a belt and switches seamlessly between ‘motor’ and ‘generator’ modes. Under acceleration in ‘motor’ mode, the MHSG provides electric power assistance to help reduce the load on the engine and therefore results in lower emissions. As the car decelerates, the MHSG has the ability to switch to ‘generator’ mode in certain conditions, recuperating energy from the crankshaft to recharge the battery.

The new ‘Smartstream’ engine replaces the Stonic’s earlier ‘Kappa’-generation 1.0-litre T-GDi powerplant and is equipped with Continuously Variable Valve Duration (CVVD) technology. CVVD enables the engine to switch seamlessly between different combustion cycles depending on load, maximising efficiency in all driving situations. The Smartstream engine produces the same power as the previous Kappa engine – 99bhp or 118bhp – but enables slightly higher peak torque output, depending on transmission. For instance, the peak torque output from the 118bhp edition with a seven-speed double-clutch transmission (7DCT) is 16 per cent higher at 200Nm.

The new EcoDynamics+ powertrain is offered with the 118bhp version of the new engine, with a Drive Mode Select system allowing drivers to customise the driving experience with ‘Eco’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Normal’ modes. EcoDynamics+ models are also available with Kia’s new intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT). The ‘clutch-by-wire’ system contributes to the MHEV system’s greater fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions, while retaining the driver engagement of a conventional manual transmission. Instead of a mechanical linkage, the iMT’s clutch is actuated electronically. It integrates seamlessly with the MHSG to switch off the engine earlier than Kia’s Idle Stop & Go start-stop system when coasting to a halt. Both transmissions, iMT and 7DCT, enable periods of engine-off ‘sailing’ to improve fuel efficiency. This operates at speeds of up to 77mph, and the engine reactivates when the driver pushes the accelerator, brake or clutch pedals.

New ‘GT-Line’ and ‘GT-Line S’ crown updated Stonic line-up
The Stonic range for 2020 has been reprofiled, with the line-up kicking off with ‘2’ specification, before moving up to an eye-catching new ‘GT-Line’ specification, followed by a two-tone ‘Connect’ edition, and ‘GT-Line S’ flagship.

The exciting new ‘GT-Line’ and ‘GT-Line S’ models deliver a strong and sporty design, with ‘GT-Line’ front grille, LED headlights and daytime running lights, together with more dynamic front and rear bumpers that integrate a front skid plate and LED fog lamps. ‘GT-Line’ models feature a black rear spoiler with integrated high-mounted brake light, while the ‘GT-Line S’ versions feature a rear spoiler painted in body colour. Unique 17-inch alloy wheels and a ‘GT-Line’ emblem on the rear tailgate completes the exterior makeover. ‘GT-Line’ versions are available in six paint finishes, while the two-tone ‘GT-Line S’ editions are offered in six hues, with a choice of black or yellow roof, depending upon the colour chosen.

The sporty ambience is enhanced by a leather D-cut steering wheel with ‘GT-Line’ motif emblazoned upon it and a carbon look crash pad. The black cloth and faux leather seats are embossed with the ‘GT-Line’ logo and feature stitching and piping. The new 8-inch multimedia and navigation system dominates the cabin, and a 4.2-inch colour supervision display is nestled within the instrument cluster.

Safety performance is placed very high on the agenda, with ‘GT-Line’ and ‘GT-Line S’ models featuring Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with pedestrian and cyclist detection, Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Driver Attention Warning (DAW) and High Beam Assist (HBA), with ‘GT-Line S’ versions additionally featuring Blind Spot Collision Warning (BCW) and Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA), with DCT editions also boasting Blind Spot Collision Avoidance for the rear of the car. Other advanced technology features include rear parking sensors and a reversing camera system, with ‘GT-Line S’ models also featuring front parking sensors.

Other equipment highlights include rear privacy glass, electrically folding door mirrors, automatic air conditioning, an 8-inch touchscreen navigation system with the very latest UVO Connect Phase II telematics software. Android AutoTM and Apple CarPlayTM are both standard equipment.

‘GT-Line’ and ‘GT-Line S’ editions boast the latest engine technology and comes exclusively powered by the 1.0-litre T-GDi petrol engine featuring brand new 48-volt mild hybrid technology. The 118bhp powerplant is mated to either a six-speed intelligent Manual Transmission or seven-speed automatic Dual Clutch Transmission and develops 172Nm of torque.

Larger, upgraded infotainment system with UVO Connect ‘Phase II’
UVO Connect’s Phase II features provide customers with several new benefits, such as more accurate journey times, ‘last-mile’ navigation assistance, and a range of features to enhance connectivity and usability. These can be accessed through an enhanced UVO smartphone app or via vehicles’ on-board infotainment systems.

One of the most useful Phase II features to be offered in UVO Connect-equipped vehicles is ‘Online Navigation’. This service draws on cloud-based real-time and historical traffic data to predict traffic levels more accurately, giving customers a more accurate picture of journey times and estimated time of arrival. This differs from traffic prediction tools found in conventional navigation systems, which only rely on in-car route planning and real-time traffic information to estimate journey times.

Kia’s new ‘Last Mile Navigation’ feature will help customers continue navigating to their final destination, even after they have parked up and left their car behind. This offers Kia customers the ideal solution for navigation in towns and cities where car parking are often some distance away from shops, cafés and restaurants.

Once the vehicle’s ignition has been turned off, this new feature sends a push notification to the UVO app on the user’s smartphone if their destination is between 200 metres and two kilometres away. The app lets users seamlessly access Google Maps navigation to complete their journey on foot. Alternatively, users can engage an augmented reality function, ‘AR Guidance’, which opens the smartphone’s camera and blends the image with AR turn-by-turn directional arrows.

Customers can also use a new ‘User Profile Transfer’ feature on the UVO app. This enables them to check and change their vehicle settings directly from their smartphone, including navigation, radio and Bluetooth preferences, at a time and place convenient for them. When the ignition is turned on, customers are automatically greeted with their preferred settings, saving time and making each journey more enjoyable. It also lets Kia owners back-up their in-vehicle UVO preferences via the cloud, and transfer settings from one vehicle to the next. This system will benefit customers who regularly switch between different UVO Connect-equipped Kia cars, for instance, business users who use pool cars, or families with more than one UVO Connect-equipped Kia in their household.

New colour combinations for ‘Connect’ and ‘GT-Line S’ models
Two new exterior paint colours are available – Storm Grey and Azure Blue. In addition, the new body and roof colours on offer creates the opportunity for a wider choice of colour contrast paint colours, available on the new ‘Connect’ and ‘GT-Line S’ versions. The roof is now available in a Zest Yellow paint finish, alongside the option of a Midnight Black roof, the two-tone roof is popular with Stonic customers, with 33 per cent of all European customers specifying this stand-out option.

The latest Stonic boasts newly designed full LED headlamps on ‘GT-Line’, and ‘GT-Line S’ models, while on the inside, in addition to the new larger 8-inch touchscreen, the driver is also rewarded with a new higher-resolution 4.2-inch digital display in the instrument cluster.

October 29, 2020

Ford Mustang Mach-E GT

2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT1

Ford today revealed for the first time in Europe the high-performance Mustang Mach-E GT that will deliver 3.7‑second 0-62 mph acceleration¹ when introduced to the region in late 2021.

No other vehicle in its class can accelerate faster than the Mustang Mach-E GT, featuring a 465 PS, all-wheel drive, battery-electric powertrain for drivers ready to take full advantage of the performance benefits of all-electric driving.

Mustang Mach-E GT will be supported by an industry-leading ecosystem delivering seamless, integrated access to charging across Europe – for complete peace of mind on the move. Ford today announced Mustang Mach-E customers placing an order this year and into 2021 will receive five years of free access² to the FordPass Charging Network that has grown by almost 25 per cent in less than one year – to now include more than 155,000 charge stations across Europe.

Mach-E customers will also receive one year of free access² to the IONITY fast-charging network that has now established more than 270 charging stations en route to a targeted 400 by the end of this year.

The Mustang Mach-E GT made its European debut today in Rotterdam, Netherlands, as Ford continued its Go Electric roadshow with hands-on, engaging activities to help de-mystify electrification and inspire confidence in consumers about the different types of electrified powertrains available and their benefits.

“The new Mustang Mach-E GT shows what all-electric performance really looks like, but performance counts for nothing without the confidence to use it. Our charging initiatives mean Mustang Mach-E customers can enjoy the electrified Mustang driving experience with the knowledge that they can recharge quickly and easily across Europe,” said Stuart Rowley, president, Ford of Europe.

Electrifying performance
Mustang Mach-E GT delivers the spirited performance and character of the iconic Mustang sports car alongside the ability to carry five occupants in all-electric refinement. A 465 PS, dual-motor powertrain applies 830 Nm of available torque independently to the front and rear axles for even more responsive handling, and 0-62 mph acceleration equal to the Tesla Model Y. Top speed is limited to 200 km/h (124 mph).

A bespoke specification includes MagneRide adaptive suspension, 20‑inch alloy wheels, red-painted brake callipers and unique exterior colours including Grabber Blue and Cyber Orange. Inside, a 15.5-inch full HD touch display supports a next generation SYNC communication and entertainment system³ that actually learns from driver behaviours to make smart suggestions. The enhanced interior also features Ford Performance seats and a unique steering wheel with suede inserts.

Mustang Mach-E GT features as standard an 88 kWh (useable) extended-range battery for a targeted WLTP pure-electric driving range of up to 310 miles,⁴supported by Intelligent Range, which more accurately predicts how much range drivers have using past driving behaviour, weather forecasts and crowdsourced data from other Mustang Mach-E vehicles.

Ford also today announced that the standard Mustang Mach-E equipped with an extended-range battery and all-wheel drive delivers 5.1-second 0‑62 mph acceleration⁵ – equal to the Tesla Model Y Long Range model – and a targeted WLTP pure-electric driving range of up to 540 km (335 miles).⁴

The company is delivering peace of mind for its all-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle customers via the FordPass Charging Network – the largest network of public charging stations in Europe with approximately 30,000 stations added since October 2019.

In partnership with NewMotion, Ford customers will be able to use the FordPass app to effortlessly locate, navigate to, pay for and monitor charging at locations across 21 countries – initiating and paying for services from a single account² for a simplified ownership experience.

Ford is also a founder member and shareholder in the IONITY consortium – delivering high-power charging stations along motorway routes and at key European locations. The FordPass Charging Network and IONITY initiatives could be particularly beneficial to electrified vehicle owners who do not have the facility for a private charge point at home or at work.

Charging with up to 150 kW at an IONITY station, Mustang Mach-E in extended-range battery, rear-wheel drive configuration is estimated to add an average of 73 miles driving range within approximately 10 minutes of charging⁶ and has a targeted WLTP pure-electric driving range of up to 379 miles.⁴

No one-size-fits-all solution
Ford believes a broad range of electrified powertrain solutions is the most effective path to a more energy-efficient future for drivers. Ford is introducing 17 new electrified models to the region by the end of next year.

Earlier this year the company called on governments, industries and institutions to support the push for electrification with faster expansion of public charging infrastructures. In the meantime, Ford’s diverse range of hybrid vehicles is helping greater numbers of customers save fuel costs, support clean air initiatives and transition to electrification with confidence.

Seventy-five per cent of Puma models sold up to August this year are equipped with a Ford EcoBoost 48-volt mild hybrid powertrain. Fifty-five per cent of new Kuga sales in the same period have been Kuga Plug-In Hybrid models.

A U.K. trial of 20 Transit Custom Plug-In Hybrid vans covering more than 150,000 miles found that 75 per cent of the fleet’s mileage in Central London was completed using pure electric power – dramatically reducing tailpipe emissions in the inner city.

Full hybrid variants of the Ford S-MAX and Galaxy models are joining the Mondeo Hybrid early next year, following a €42 million investment in Ford’s Valencia manufacturing plant, Spain – including a state-of-the-art battery assembly facility.

“The sales speak for themselves. We believe customers are finding mild hybrid, full hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains fit seamlessly with their lifestyles, and that’s why we’re seeing really encouraging take-up of our electrified models,” Rowley said.

Ultimate electric propulsion
Also making its European debut in Rotterdam is the all-electric Mustang Mach-E 1400 – a one-of-a-kind prototype with more than 1,400 PS of power.

The result of 10,000 hours of collaboration by Ford Performance and tuning specialists RTR Vehicles, Mustang Mach-E 1400 is aimed at bridging the gap between what an electric vehicle can do and what customers tend to believe it can do.

Aerodynamics are optimised for shape and location, and seven motors have a huge range of adjustability to set the car up for everything from drifting to high-speed track racing.

“One is a production model, the other an extreme prototype, but our Mustang Mach-E GT and Mustang Mach-E 1400 have something in common, which is immediate, adaptable power delivery, creating a driving experience that has to be experienced to be believed,” Rowley said.

October 15, 2020

Bentley GT Mulliner

2021 GT Mulliner1

Bentley Mulliner is adding to its new Collections portfolio and creating the new luxury pinnacle of the Continental GT family with the new Continental GT Mulliner coupé. This sibling of the GT Mulliner Convertible celebrates modern craftsmanship and offers the client even wider possibilities to commission a unique Bentley to their individual specification.

The Continental GT Mulliner coupé makes its global debut at Salon Privé which is being staged on the grounds of Blenheim Palace, UK, from 22 September where it will be displayed alongside the Bentley Mulliner Bacalar, also making its public debut and an as-yet-unannounced example of the Mulliner Classic portfolio.

A suite of exclusive exterior design features separates the Continental GT Mulliner from the rest of the family. At the front, the new ‘Double Diamond’ matrix grille defines the new Mulliner signature style, complemented by matching front fender vents echoing the same silver and black design and with chromed Mulliner branding. Approaching and opening either door reveals the other Mulliner design features – Satin Silver mirror caps with Mulliner Welcome Lamps beneath, and illuminated outer door sills with Mulliner text.

The car sits on new and unique 22” Mulliner wheels, with a bespoke design of elegant beauty in a painted and polished finish. The center badge of each wheel is self-leveling, keeping the iconic Bentley ‘B’ upright at all times.

The cabin of the Continental GT Mulliner is one defined by luxury and showcases a level of choice and customization that only Mulliner can provide. A unique color split is exclusive to the car, with a new combination of primary and secondary hide joined by a third color through a flowing design line.

Eight different three-color combinations are proposed by Mulliner, using Bentley’s palette of hides and threads to create striking yet elegant contrast throughout the cabin.

The Mulliner Driving Specification is fitted as standard, bringing the “Diamond in Diamond” quilting to the seats, doors trims, and rear quarter panels, now with both contrast and accent stitching running through the diamond’s design.

It takes almost 400,000 stitches to deliver this quilting across the cabin of the car, with each diamond containing exactly 712 individual stitches – each one precisely aligned to point to the center of the diamond it creates. Developing the embroidery process to deliver this process alone took 18 months.

The seats themselves are finished with embroidered Mulliner logos. The floor mats are edged with micro-piping to match the rest of the color theme of the interior and chrome Bentley ‘B’ retention caps are an example of the fine details that separate the Continental GT Mulliner.

The roof of the cabin is trimmed along its full length with indented hide, or smooth hide to match the seatbacks if the fixed glass roof is selected.

The centre console is dressed in a new diamond milled technical finish that uses precision machining to form a perfect pattern of facets, flanked either side by Grand Black walnut veneer with chrome overlays. A unique Breitling clock sits in the center of the console, while the passenger side fascia is finished with a silhouette of the car’s exterior profile and the Mulliner logo. The veneer flows into the doors, where it is completed by a discreet Bentley ‘B’ motif.

For the driver, the brushed-metal finish of the Breitling clock is carried through from the physical world to the digital, with a unique design to the main gauges of the LED main instruments cluster where careful skeuomorphic design and the application of digital textures makes the virtual dials look like real metal.

Further personalization is available through a range of 88 contemporary, colorized veneer finishes that can be matched to the interior or exterior of the car. Burr walnut veneer is hand-sanded and polished to produce a perfectly smooth finish before painting to match the colour of the customer’s choice. Once dry, the veneer is polished to achieve a mirror-like finish.

Customers of the Continental GT Mulliner can choose either Bentley’s iconic 6.0-liter W12 powertrain delivering 635 PS (626 bhp), or its sublime 4.0-litre V8 offering 550 PS (542 bhp), for a level of performance to juxtapose the car’s handcrafted luxury.

Bentley’s pioneering 48V electric active anti-roll technology – Bentley Dynamic Ride – is fitted as standard*, delivering incredible body control and stability during cornering and a relaxed, cosseting ride when cruising.

Orders for both coupe and convertible versions of the Continental GT Mulliner will be taken from October, with first deliveries beginning early next year. Customers of the Continental GT Mulliner will receive the keys to their car in a bespoke, Mulliner-branded, and handcrafted presentation box containing individual leather pouches matching the three-color interior configuration of their car.

Bentley Mulliner
Bentley Mulliner is renowned throughout the automotive world for crafting some of the most individual Bentleys ever created. Bentley Mulliner is the birthplace of coachbuilding – the oldest automotive coachbuilder in the world. Bentley Mulliner operates three distinct divisions, each with its own artisanal specialism:

Bentley Mulliner Coachbuilt provides customers with the ability to work closely with a team of specialist designers to create or enhance their vehicle with a unique body styles, different materials and specially curated options. The Bentley Mulliner Bacalar will be the first – but other new bespoke Bentleys will follow as part of the portfolio.

The Bentley Mulliner Classic offering was introduced last year with the announcement that Bentley’s 1929 Team Blower is to be reborn with a new build of 12 supercharged 4½-litre examples of the iconic car. These models, each individually handcrafted by a team of specialists from Bentley Mulliner, will form the world’s first pre-war race car continuation series. This subdivision of Mulliner also completed an immaculate restoration of the 1939 Bentley Corniche last year.

The third division of expertise – Bentley Mulliner Collections – will continue to offer customers luxury-focused derivatives of the core Bentley range, such as the new Continental GT Mulliner, as well as the opportunity to personalise their new Bentley. An expansive number of options is available across the full line-up of current production cars – from unique colour-matched paint, hide and thread combinations, to bespoke feature content.

The experienced team, supported by in-house engineers and designers at Crewe, prides itself on a long history of fulfilling the desires and demands of Bentley’s most discerning customers worldwide.

September 29, 2020

Ford GT Heritage Edition

The Ford GT is America’s only Le Mans-winning supercar, and taking this pinnacle of Ford Performance even further for 2021, Ford is revealing two new enhancements today – the first-ever Heritage Edition inspired by the original model’s first endurance win at the 1966 Daytona 24 Hour Continental race, plus an all-new Studio Collection package offers even more exclusivity and design enhancements.

“For this Heritage Edition, the Ford Performance team went deeper into the Ford GT’s race history and crafted a limited-edition model that stylistically honors the 55th anniversary of the Daytona 24 Hour endurance race that would eventually lead to our successes at Le Mans,” said Mike Severson, Ford GT program manager. “Plus, for customers who want to highlight the carbon-fiber body and functional cooling ducts that help deliver Le Mans-winning performance, the Ford GT Studio Collection offers another new way GT fans can personalize their supercars.”

The announcement of two new variants of the Ford GT were the highlights at the conclusion of 2020 Petersen Car Week, which started airing Wednesday on the museum’s YouTube channel. The virtual event featured 25 hours of original content from manufacturers and enthusiasts, along with automotive lifestyle and auction house activities.

First-ever Daytona-inspired Ford GT Heritage Edition
The latest Heritage Edition to join the storied Ford GT supercar family is a tribute to the winner of the 1966 Daytona 24 Hour Continental, where Ford achieved its first 24-hour endurance win, which is captured in the 2019 film “Ford v Ferrari” – or “Le Mans ’66,” as it is known in Europe.

Co-drivers Ken Miles and Lloyd Ruby led a 1-2-3-5 Ford domination at Daytona, kicking off a magical season for the Ford GT40 MK II, with additional 1-2-3 wins at Sebring and Le Mans. This Heritage Edition is the first to feature a livery famous for a race other than Le Mans.

“Miles and Ruby led nearly every lap of the 24-hour race and outpaced the competition by 30 miles,” said Severson. “The win was the first time anyone had threatened Ferrari’s dominance in sports car racing and represented a turning point in the Ford GT race program.”

Inspired by the bold white, black, and red exterior of the 1966 endurance-winning Ford GT40 MK II race car, the new 2021 Ford GT Heritage Edition features Frozen White exterior paint with exposed carbon fiber hood adding stark contrast. Asymmetrical Race Red accents on the front fascia and roof edge, driver’s side door, and underneath the rear wing add distinct visuals, while exposed carbon fiber shapes the signature 98 roundel graphics and speak to the supercar’s lightweight body. Unique Ford graphics on the lower rear-quarter panels plus one-piece Heritage Gold 20-inch forged-aluminum wheels paired with red lacquered Brembo monoblock brake calipers complete this new exterior livery.

Inside, the lightweight driver-centric interior features unique appointments including black Alcantara® suede wrapping the instrument panel, headliner, and steering wheel rim, while anodized red paddle shifters and red Alcantara suede performance seats add dramatic contrast to the interior.

For customers looking for an even bolder look, an optional Heritage Upgrade Package includes 20-inch exposed carbon fiber wheels with a unique gloss red-painted inner accent barrel, while monoblock brake calipers are lacquered in black and detailed with Brembo lettering in red.

Inside, ghosted 98 roundels provide subtle contrast on both driver and passenger carbon fiber door panels of this package.

All-new Ford GT Studio Collection graphics package
Ford Performance also pulled the wraps off an exclusive series new to the supercar lineup, the Ford GT Studio Collection. This all-new graphics package with customizable colors highlights key styling elements, including the functional cooling ducts that help the 2021 Ford GT deliver all 660 horsepower during the most strenuous, high-temperature sessions at the track.

Its unique exterior graphics package was born of a design collaboration between Ford Performance and Ford GT manufacturer, Multimatic. It reflects the input of Garen Nicoghosian, Multimatic design head, who has worked on the Ford GT program since its genesis.

“The combination of the stripes and accents invokes the emotion of speed and draws your eye to some of the most prominent features of the GT,” said Nicoghosian. “The fuselage, buttresses, and signature features on the headlights provide visual anchors for the graphics, guiding your eye across the vehicle.”

Only 40 cars are slated to receive the Studio Collection package across the 2021 and 2022 model years. The body and graphics can be customized with seven standard colors or further personalized with an extended palette offering endless color combinations for even greater exclusivity.

Deliveries of the 2021 model year Ford GT begin in early 2021, with Ford GT production wrapping up in 2022.

August 17, 2020

Mercedes-Benz AMG GT Black Series

The mighty new Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series is now on sale and will cost £335,000.

The Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, which takes its design cues from the current AMG GT3 race car, features a hand-built 4.0-liter V8 bi-turbo engine generating 730 hp and 800 Nm Torque – making it the most powerful series V8 engine ever produced by AMG. It can sprint from 0 to 62 mph in 3.2 seconds, and a top speed of 201 mph.

The GT Black Series is the sixth Black Series from Mercedes-AMG; the first was the SLK 55 Black Series revealed in 2006, and most-recently the SLS Black Series in 2013. These models are designed especially for high-speed use on a racetrack, ultimately borrowing technology from motorsport relatives – while still being approved for the road.

The rear of the newest Black Series is characterized by a new rear apron with a large diffuser, while its carbon-fiber roof and tailgate make it the lightest GT model yet.

In a choice of nine exclusive AMG Magma Beam Paint colors, the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series sits on 19-inch (front) and 20-inch (rear) AMG 10-spoke forged wheels, painted in black, and comes with the AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system and black brake calipers.

The actively controlled AMG Performance exhaust system is made of thin-walled stainless steel, while the two round twin tailpipe trim elements are finished in dark chrome.

Exterior highlights include the AMG radiator grille, which is based on the AMG GT3 racing car; carbon-fiber front wings with wheel arch ventilation (louvers) and individual fins in black; and an adjustable front diffuser and bonnet elements in high-gloss carbon-fiber.

Inside, the standard AMG Interior Night Package is complemented by an AMG Performance steering wheel in DINAMICA microfibre with “Black Series” lettering as well as AMG carbon-fiber door sills.

While the standard AMG Track Package includes a titanium roll-bar and four-point seat belts, the alternative no-cost option Comfort Package replaces the bucket seats with heated AMG Performance seats and a memory package.

The interior is upholstered in exclusive Nappa leather/DINAMICA microfibre with contrasting topstitching in orange. This can be switched to black with grey stitching at no additional cost.

August 4, 2020

Ford reveals 2019 GT Heritage Edition model

2019 Ford GT Heritage Edition honors the iconic American Gulf Oil-sponsor Ford GT40 by showcasing a pretty notable color scheme, along with additional exclusive features and goodies. Famous among enthusiasts as Chassis No. 1075, the 1968 GT was one of the few vehicles that has achieved repeat victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans event.

And now, for the first time ever, there’s an exclusive pack offered that delivers exposed carbon fiber components for both interior and exterior, fresh No. 9 graphics on the hood and doors, along with a ghosted image on the interior door panels. In fact, for 2020, No. 6 honors the same vehicle that has won the Le Mans race back in 1969 with a different number.

2019 Ford GT Heritage Edition

The Heritage Edition comes with carbon-fiber A-pillars and sporty and exclusive 20-inch one-piece forged aluminum wheels in glossy dark stainless with black lug nuts. There are also black calipers and silver rearview mirror caps that complete the aggressive and yet super sexy appearance. There are also ebony Alcantara-covered sporty seats, instrument panels, pillars, headliner and steering wheel, contrasting blue and orange stitching and new seat embossment, inspired by the original 1968 Le Mans-winning car and clear polished anodized paddle shifter. Neat!

Just as previous heritage models, the new GT Heritage Edition features a special serialized identification plate, along with exposed matte carbon fiber door sills, air register pods and central console.

2019 Ford GT Heritage Edition

Source: Ford

August 27, 2018

Which are top 6 of Europe’s greatest driving roads? Ford answers in exclusive video series [part one]

Traveling across Europe with a car can be very exciting and a proof for that is the special video series recently released by Ford and BP/Castrol. Dubbed under the name “Europe’s Greatest Driving Roads”, the footages explore six of the most exclusive pathways that could be found on the Old Continent.

How were the routes chosen? With a ranking by the thrill factor they offer, the road surface, the accessibility and hospitality, of course – the scenery, and not forgetting the food and drink after the drive. Those who were lucky to take this task have actually covered nearly 10,000 miles in 12 months to identify the most breath-taking drives! A dream job, isn’t it?

There are five countries featured in the series, namely: Romania, France, Germany, Spain (with two routes) and the United Kingdom. And the performance cars included in the videos are delivered by Ford, including the Mustang GT, Focus RS and Fiesta ST. Behind the wheel is the renowned car journalist Steve Sutcliffe.

Since there are only four videos of the series released so far, we are going to feature the other two in additional articles. Here are the first four featured.

North Yorkshire, Blakey Ridge

httpv://youtu.be/uPIXRv0pgi0

Driving a Ford Focus RS, Sutcliffe follows the route of an old railway line to the now quiet iron ore mines of the moors. The challenging Blakey Ridge is only 15 miles long and it’s not the longest road in the series, but the way “it winds itself across the moors, throwing blind crests and fast but ever tightening corners is completely fascinating”.

ROMANIA, Transfăgărășan Highway

httpv://youtu.be/5mIqlB3QOSk

This one is built by former Romanian dictator and it is actually one of the most famous routs in Europe. It even passes the castle of Dracula, Vlad the Impaler. Here the chosen car is Ford Mustang Fastback 5.0 V8. In it Steve shows that if one is a true driving enthusiast, the Transfăgărășan is genuinely a “bucket list kind of place to visit”.

SPAIN, Catolonia, C462

httpv://youtu.be/stxoXE0-4zQ

Behind the wheel of a Ford Fiesta ST, Sutcliffe drove just over 100 km. The road winds its way north through Catalonia and ending over 100km later at La Seu D’Urgell, just south of Andorra. The very top of the C462 finds itself over 2000m and it is that point where you can stare over some of the most amazing view of the Pyrenees, visible in their entirety.

FRANCE, the Alps, D526 & D926

httpv://youtu.be/_YjIeyK_bSw

This is one of the hardest stages of the Tour de France, and equally challenging in a car, says Sutcliffe who drives the Ford Mustang Convertible 2.3. Although it is one of the most grueling places, the route is also one of the most picturesque ones.

So, if you are going to travel across Europe, then you should also know the best road opportunities that some countries can offers. These roads are for people who love cars and love driving, but also want to make an amazing road trip. The next two videos will include routes in Germany and Mallorca. Stay tuned!

Videos Source: YouTube

Source: Ford

June 13, 2016

Lorinser releases power-upgrade for Mercedes-AMG GT and GT S

Lorinser Mercedes-AMG GT S front and side view Mercedes-AMG GT and GT S, oh, who doesn’t love these? Especially when it comes to high-speed and style the models are among the most preferred, not only for a stock purchase but also by tuning companies, which love to play with these little masters. One of those customization specialists are those at Sportservice Lorinser, who know what they are doing when it comes to refining Mercedes-Benz models. With their newly produced components for the AMG GT and GT S, these guys are “killing it”!

They have done here a power performance increase and added some in-house made sports accessories. Nothing much you might say, but the result after all is the most important part of a job that is very well done. Here are the details you need to know!

The stock engine of the AMG GT and GT S is the 4-litre V8 unit, making it possible for the GT series to unleash 456 hp (340 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 600 Nm (441 lb-ft); and for the GT S series: 503 hp (375 kW) at 6,250 rpm and 650 Nm (480 lb-ft).

Lorinser Mercedes-AMG GT S rear and side view

These numbers serve well to make a comparison to the result after the tuning, which is clocking 595 hp (443 kW) at 6,100 rpm and an impressive 750 Nm (554 lb-ft) of maximum torque, available at 4,900 rpm. When it comes to acceleration time, both model versions cut the time to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h to 3.6 seconds. In addition, the Lorinser-powered coupes reache 200 km/h in 10.1 seconds, driving on their way to the 300 km/h top speed.

The powerful uprating is complemented by RSK 8 light-alloy wheels, sized 20- and 21- inches at the front and rear, respectively. They were then fitted with 265/30 R20 at the front and 305/25 R21 at the rear. And this is all. It is not much, but still enough to enjoy a quality ride. And very fast one, too.

Source: Lorinser

June 7, 2016

The lightweight 2016 Ford GT becomes even lighter: there are carbon-fiber wheels already available

2016 Ford GT with carbon wheels The carbon-fiber-bodied Ford GT will be available with an optional all-new carbon-fiber wheels for further weight reduction and handling optimization. With collaborating partner Carbon Revolution, Ford presents the next-gen of fiber and resin technology that will probably change the world of technology.

These optional wheels will be offered with matte or glossy finish, allowing the natural weave of the carbon-fiber to show through. Also, the finishes perfectly match the rest of the exposed carbon fiber components on the new Ford GT: sills, fascia and extractor.

2016 Ford GT with carbon wheels

The standard wheels of the Ford GT are 20-inch lightweight aluminum beauties, but the new and optional carbon-fiber wheels are not only the same size, but are also structurally stiffer and save about 1kg of unsprung weight per wheel, reducing the inertia with about 25 per cent. Cool, right.

All this weight saving also reduces the suspension workload and enhances the consistent contact with the road surface, which further improves traction and driver control. And with the less energy required to accelerate or turn the wheels, the vehicle will benefit from improved dynamics and fuel efficiency.

2016 Ford GT with carbon wheels

Carbon bodies, carbon interior, carbon components and now we have carbon wheels. We all wonder what else provocative engineers will show in the near future in order to reshape the world of motorsport. So, tell me, what in your opininion will be the next significat carbon-fiber component? An engine maybe?

Source: Ford

May 17, 2016

6,506 potential customers get the chance to own the EcoBoost-powered Ford GT

Ford GT front view Revealed more than a year ago, the new Ford GT has caught the interest of many people around the world. The evidence is that more than 200,000 fans have visited the official virtual configurator and have built the Ford GT of their dreams. From this number of people, around 10,800 showed interest online in buying the new EcoBoost-powered carbon-infused supercar. The result is the following: Ford received 6,506 fully completed applications from people around the world in one month during the first application window.

An intriguing fact, is six days before the window closed, the number of applicants spiked which 32 per cent. Since only 500 hundred of these 6,506 “wanna-have-Ford-GT”s will be actually chosen to purchase the car, hundreds of registrants submitted videos with their applications with the hope to increase their chances.

Some of the creative videos feature children, lighting effects, racing footage, revving engines, garage tours and life stories. And all of them made with a single purpose – to explain why they should own the new Ford GT.

Ford GT side view

What happens now? Ford is actually reviewing the applications and will start notifying potential owners in the next 90 days. After the car is finally purchased, it is expected to start arriving in customers’ garages by the end of this year.

Ford GT is a lightweight carbon-fiber supercar powered by the most potent EcoBoost production engine ever. The twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 generates more than 600 horsepower and features a wide powerband with impressive time-to-torque characteristics and remarkable efficiency. The EcoBoost V6 will be coupled with a seven-speed dual-clutch transaxle.

The new GT supercar has rear-wheel drive and a sleek, aerodynamic, two-door coupe body shell made of carbon fiber and aluminum. In addition, the aerodynamic efficiency is one of the key characteristics of the vehicle. All of this is backed up by the 20-inch multispoke wheels shod with Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup tires and carbon-ceramic brake discs.

Source: Ford

May 14, 2016

2016 Vauxhall GT Concept’s Interior Showcased Before Global Debut

2016 Vauxhall GT Concept Vauxhall revealed GT Concept’s interior with the idea to showcase the innovative technologies and futuristic design of the cabin. And ahead of vehicle’s global debut at 2016 Geneva Motor Show, the team made a glimpse of what is to be the Human Machine Interface. This is a special system that allows sports cars to be completely operated by voice only and a central touch pad. Sounds cool, but is it really practical?

The self-learning system can also recognize driver’s habits and movements and adapts according his or her needs. This results on a special “dialogue” between man and machine that can not only drive you home, but also can choose the right music, route and even temperature, according to what the machine’s impressions are.

2016 Vauxhall GT Concept

And in case the driver does not want to use the voice command, he or she can just reach the touch pad in front of her and start a sort of “manual” driving.

And for the drivers who would use the GT Concept for business, there are a special instrument facilities that are dedicated to that idea: the intuitive graphic displays consumption, when the driver is under time pressure and if there is a tricky situation that requires additional skills, the HMI optimizes the accelerator, transmission and engine control in such way that the right instrument displays the g-force values of the longitudinal acceleration.

2016 Vauxhall GT Concept

The entire instrument panel is made of brushed aluminum, while the round camera monitors are embedded in the outer aluminum air jets with polished GT emblem, while the shining red seatbelt reactors resemble the distinctive design of the red front tires. Sweet.

2016 Vauxhall GT Concept

Source: Vauxhall

February 18, 2016

Tag: GT

North Yorkshire, Blakey Ridge

ROMANIA, Transfăgărășan Highway

SPAIN, Catolonia, C462

FRANCE, the Alps, D526 & D926