Leak: 2011 Hyundai Sonata

New 2011 Hyundai Sonata YF made the rounds today on several Korean forums revealing more details on the mid-size sedan's styling. As predicted, Hyundai's Mazda6 and VW Passat challenger incorporates a more dramatic design language than the current model featuring a four-door-coupe-like roofline and a stubby rear-end.


Although it is most likely that these photos depict the U.S. and Asian market model, the European version that will potentially be named ix40, shouldn't differ much - we suspect that the only significant change will concern the replacement of the Klingon-like front grille with something more in the lines of the new Tucson / ix35's grille.

The single interior photo shows the 2011 Sonata's instrument panel that houses a pair of deeply set gauges separated by small color screen.


We'll have to wait for the official reveal to learn details about the engine range, but four-cylinder and V6 gasoline units are almost guaranteed while the European range will also include Hyundai's a choice of four-banger turbo diesels such as the 2.0-liter four-pot with 185 horsepower.


We expect to see the new Sonata making its world debut before the end of the year and to arrive in dealerships on both sides of the Atlantic sometime during the first half of 2010.
via:carscoop

Dunkel Industries creates ultimate off-road RV

As they sat looking over the horizon, they realized they had achieved their dream. The guys from Dunkel Industries had driven themselves to a remote spot where they could just relax and enjoy nature at its tranquil best. What made the journey extra special was that they had gotten there in their very own Dunkel Industries Luxury 4x4. Now, "Luxury 4X4" might have some of you thinking Land Rover or Porsche Cayenne. If that's what you're picturing, then all we can say is "Think bigger." Much bigger. Like, so-big-we-can't-get-it-into-the-frame bigger. The Dunkel version of a Luxury 4X4 starts with a Ford F-650 commercial chassis and winds up as the ultimate off-road recreational vehicle.


As their website puts it, Dunkel industries was built on the childhood dream of never having to stop because the trail was 'more than the RV could handle.' So they created a vehicle with "unlimited versatility" that utilizes a Fabco military-grade 4x4 system, capable of driving the luxurious "custom wood, leather and Fiberglass interior" to places no RV dares to go. And in case you want to bring some smaller toys along with you into the wilderness, the bed is big enough to haul a car. That bed also articulates to serve as a ramp to load dirtbikes or ATVs onto the roof. No trailer necessary and no 55-mph limitations for this beast.


Dunkel Industries Luxury 4X4 Build Sheet

• Custom Seats
• Custom Cabinets
• Center Dash with Navigation, Stereo, Bluetooth, DVD, CD, and Laptop
• Rear Bed/Seat
• Custom one touch entry Stairwell
• Tilt-Bed with ramps
• Truck Levelers
• Extra Water
• 3 Winches
• Tow Package with air hook-ups
• 3 windshield wipers
• Custom Rims and Tires
• Custom Grille
• Custom Bumpers with lights
• 2 Flat Screens 17" and 12"
• LED Lighting (above and under cabinets)
• Rear Closet with Drawer
• 2 Custom Pull Out Tables
• 2 Hideaway Boxes (each side of rear seat)
• 3200 Onan
• Inverter
• Kitchen Sink (folding)
• 2 Burner Stove
• Refridgerator
• Aluminum Bed deck with Tie downs
• Upper Deck (with More Storage)
• Rear Pental Hitch (pivot with spring)
• Front Tow Bar
• Drivers air ride seat
• Upper Cabinets (6 Total)
• Back-up Camera also available for left and right side
• Monitor for cameras
• Four house batteries
• 18,000 BTU A/C-Heater
• Air-Ride for chassis with seperate air ride for cab

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Oakley Design Panamera Turbo

British Porsche tuners Oakley Design is the third to show their vision on the Porsche Panamera Turbo. The Oakley Design Panamera Turbo features a number of wind tunnel developed aerodynamic parts and Dymag lightweight carbon fiber wheels. The engine outputs range from 580hp for a simple remap and modified exhaust to an expected insane 680hp for a fully modified Panamera Turbo.


The 680 hp comes by way of a fully modified engine. Partial mods with 580 hp is also achievable via the exhaust and a "simple remap" of the ECU. The titanium exhaust include quad tips, replacing the original system from Porsche. After getting carbon fiber upgrades, like a tweeked rear spoiler, new front splitter, and new 20" wheels, the company added a new front spoiler and new side sills resembling those found on the Oakley GT2. The roof has also been remodeled in carbon fiber, while still using the original Panamera sliding roof.


The strongest version of the Oakley Design Panamera Turbo that produces 680bhp will feature various other parts that are being developed with Oakley’s American distributer ‘Farnbacherloles’. The Oakley Design Panamera Turbo kit should be available from the 15th of September 2009.


Source: gtspirit

Frankfurt Motor Show: Opel Astra styling kit by Irmscher

IAA Frankfurt 2009: World premiere of the new Irmscher Opel Astra

The new Astra from Irmscher - exciting design and outstanding driving dynamics

On the occasion of the IAA in Frankfurt, the customisation specialist Irmscher for the first time presents the upgraded Astra. To accompany the nationwide sales start on 17th September, Irmscher offers a comprehensive sports programme for the trade. For this volume model from Opel Rüsselsheim, Irmscher has come up with a strikingly sporty design coupled with pure driving dynamics. The Irmscher accessories are characterised by unusually high quality and the seamless integration into the look and design of the new Opel Astra. The lrmscher exterior products harmonise perfectly with the proportions of the new Astra.

Outside

Balanced proportions and exciting design

The broad shoulders on the flanks, and gentle curves between clearly defined lines recall the design language of the Insignia. The balanced proportions of the new Astra imply dynamics at the very first glance. An attribute which Irmscher consistently underlines and develops further with its design ideas. Viewed from a distance, the eye is immediately caught by the harmoniously integrated front spoiler lip, the slim radiator grill panel with silver or carbon-look design rail and the track width of the Irmscher wheels with their Turbo Star design. The side view of the new Astra is skilfully enhanced by Irmscher with a side skirt which picks up the curved line of the side view. The sporting ambitions of the Irmscher Astra are also clearly apparent from the vehicle rear, where the agile and dynamic look are complemented by the striking roof spoiler, together with a diffuser insert and quad stainless steel exhaust silencer.

Inside

Selected materials and outstanding quality

In the interior of the vehicle, the driver and passengers want for nothing. The seats, door panels and central armrests are manufactured by Irmscher and finished in fine cowhide. The leather interior fittings have been carefully matched with the red bodywork. Irmscher provides additional interior refinement in the form of aluminium door-locking pins, sill panelling in stainless steel and aluminium pedals. All Irmscher accessories stand out for their excellent visual and tactile finishing quality and further enhance the already high-quality impression of the new Astra.

Equipment

Outstanding dynamics with high driving safety

For the new Astra, Irmscher has developed a new 18" wheel in the "Turbo Star" and "Turbo Star Exclusive" design. The new rim comes complete with the 225 cm tyre width. These will be followed shortly by 20" light metal wheels, also in the Turbo Star design. For the chassis, Irmscher offers a lowering of 30 mm. here the spring characteristics used ensure sportily agile driving pleasure, and in combination with the wide tyres provide greater track stability and even more driving safety. The exhaust silencer with its elliptical twin tailpipe not only emphasises the sporty rear view of the Irmscher Astra, but also creates the appropriate satisfying sound.

At a glance

The new Astra from Irmscher

Outside

• Front spoiler lip
• Radiator grill panel with design rail in stainless steel or carbon look
• Side skirts
• Roof spoiler
• Diffuser rear spoiler trim

Inside

• Complete leather interior including seats, door panels and central armrests, and matching foot mats
• Matt aluminium door-locking pins
• Stainless steel sill panelling
• Aluminium pedals

Equipment

• Light metal wheels in the Turbo Star design 8x18 ET 46 with 225/45x18 tyres
• 30 mm lowering of the chassis springs
• Left and right exhaust silencers with elliptical twin tailpipes

via:worldcarfans

The Abt R8 5.2 FSI -Ten cylinders. 600 HP

These figures make the hearts of sports car drivers beat faster: 600 HP (441 kW), acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds, top speed of 322 km/h. The car to which these impressive performance figures belong is the ABT R8 5.2 FSI. Its V10 engine draws plenty of power from its large 5,204 cubic centimetre capacity – all the more if ABT POWER gives it an extra boost. 75 extra HP or 55 more kW provides a powerful trust at all speeds as well as increasing the torque.


The fact that the medium-engine super sports car becomes a winner on any track is not just due to its excellent performance characteristics, but also the perfectly coordinated bodywork package. It has been designed by the DTM crew of ABT Sportsline according to the latest motorsport knowledge, including the use of high-end carbon materials. The focus was above all on the optimum distribution of weight and a systematic light-weight construction.


“The 600 HP is not just intended to exist on paper, but also be available on the road”, says Christian Abt. At the same time the ABT R8 thereby looks extremely dynamic. The front spoiler, side sills and rear apron outline the bodywork and give it a more powerful presence even when at a standstill. They form one unit with the distinctive rear wing and the typical ABT 4-pipe exhaust system.


The super sports car is presented on BR-type 20-inch wheels which suit the classic design. The ABT R8 5.2 FSI is a design milestone and is of course very, very fast. This is because the 600 ABT horsepower contain, what the dynamic design of the car promises.

via:thaiautomaxx

eBay Find of the Day: 1968 Chevrolet Corvette SCCA racer recreation

Next up on the auction block is every Corvette-loving Walter Mitty's fantasy come true, a 1968 SCCA Corvette hardtop convertible race car. Okay, maybe that's not everyone's idea of the perfect Corvette, but for those of you old enough to remember the glory days of SCCA Trans-Am racing circa 1968, this car should hit all the right buttons.


What started life as a perfectly adequate, four-speed 327/350 optioned 'Vette, has been transformed into the very special race car tribute you see in our gallery. It's a street car that looks an awful lot like the Trans-Am racers of the late '60s and early '70s.


The good folks at 2nd Generation Automotive Restorations are the ones who turned it into what you see here today, minus this car's current fire-breathing factory race engine, a genuine Bowtie ZL-1. That's right, the current owner found one of the factory's limited edition Ram Jet ZL-1 engines (number 155 of only 200 made) nestled in a '55 Chevy show car.

The engine had just 36 miles on it and needed a better home. We'd say the result is pretty spectacularly awesome. This very car was featured in the August 2007 issue of Hemmings Muscle Machines and can be yours for a Buy-It-Now price of just $60,000 – it would probably cost nearly twice that much to replicate it today. If this sounds like the right car for you, you'd better act fast. Bidding ends today at 7 PM PDT.

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Video: BMW Vision EfficienctDynamics Concept unveiled

THE BMW VISION EFFICIENTDYNAMICS CONCEPT



The latest BMW Concept Car for the EfficientDynamics philosophy.



For decades, BMW has made the reduction of emissions and fuel consumption a key part of its product development strategy, just as enhancements to the dynamic ability of each BMW have been a lasting, sustained brand value. BMW's EfficientDynamics engineering philosophy - the pursuit of an enhanced, athletic driving experience while simultaneously lowering the consumption and emissions of each vehicle - resulted in the most dramatic drop in fleet consumption of any automaker from 1990 through 2005, according to an Environmental Defense study.



Now, the BMW Vision concept car clearly demonstrates that the EfficientDynamics objectives are fully compatible when applied to a sports car. Conceived as a 2+2-seater with plug-in full-hybrid technology, this unique car combines the performance of a BMW M vehicle with a standard of fuel efficiency and emission management that exceeds even the current levels achieved by the latest small cars. This outstanding result is made possible by the combination of BMW ActiveHybrid components with an extremely economical combustion engine, and outstanding aerodynamic qualities.



BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is the result of a "clean-sheet" development process to ensure that the correct achievements were made in the areas of efficiency, driving pleasure, technology, and emotional design. BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is the most comprehensive implementation of the EfficientDynamics philosophy seen so far. The powertrain provides a top speed limited electronically to 155 mph, with acceleration to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 3.76 liters/100 kilometers, equal to 62.6 mpg, and the CO2 emission rating is 99 grams per kilometer. CO2 emission management is even more outstanding when driving in the all-electric mode after charging the battery from a plug-in source: Taking all emissions in the generation of electricity into account, as prescribed by the EU formula, the car's emission rating is just 50 grams per kilometer.



Through this unique balance of driving pleasure and fuel efficiency, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car clearly demonstrates the potential of BMW ActiveHybrid technology, which makes its world debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show in the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 and BMW ActiveHybrid 7 production models.



The power and performance are made possible by combining a fuel-efficient 3-cylinder turbodiesel with one electric motor on each axle. The intelligent combination of these units, together with precisely controlled energy management, simultaneously enhances the dynamic performance and the efficiency of the car. Overall system output is 356 horsepower, and peak torque is 590 lb-ft. The special arrangement of the two motors and diesel engine allows all-wheel drive when driving in all-electric mode. The result is minimum power loss and a harmonious transmission of the power available under all conditions.



In its design, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics for the first time conveys the dynamic look of a BMW sports car to a hybrid vehicle. Developed with decades of experience in Motorsport, the body of this unique sports car is a result of intelligent lightweight technology and aerodynamic efficiency. In the design of the interior, the focus was likewise on both the fascinating driving experience and, in particular, on transparent, hands-on technology and maximum reduction of weight.



Turbodiesel engine with unprecedented specific output.

The combustion engine is a cutting-edge turbodiesel featured for the first time in the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car. Displacing 1.5 liters on three cylinders, the engine consistently follows the downsizing principle of using a relatively small engine combined with a turbocharger to reduce fuel consumption.



Through its compact dimensions, the 3-cylinder fits conveniently in front of the rear axle like in an agile mid-engine sports car, despite the two seats at the rear. Fuel is injected by the latest generation of High Precision Direct Injection, and the turbocharger features variable intake geometry for maximum efficiency. Engine output is 163 hp with peak torque of 214 lb-ft.



The specific output of 109 hp per liter sets a new benchmark in diesel technology. The power delivered by the turbodiesel is conveyed to the rear axle by means of a double-clutch transmission (DCT). This advanced transmission technology, which already offers a particularly dynamic driving experience in BMW's M3 and Z4 Roadster, allows the driver to shift gears without the slightest interruption of power. BMW Vision EfficientDynamics features a newly-developed version of BMW's DCT with six speeds for maximum efficiency and flexibility.



Two electric motors for full-hybrid drive.

The combustion engine is supplemented by two electric motors. Consistently applying the BMW ActiveHybrid philosophy, development engineers followed the principle of "Best of Hybrid," choosing the optimum combination of a hybrid synchronous motor on the front axle and a full-hybrid system at the rear.



In this concept, the driver benefits from the efficiency of the electric motors over a far wider speed range than with a conventional hybrid car. The rear axle comes with a second-generation full-hybrid system corresponding to the technology in the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 production model. The compact electric motor positioned between the diesel engine and the DCT outputs a consistent 33 horsepower and is able to reach a peak of up to 51 hp. Maximum torque for the rear electric motor is 214 lb-ft, the power, either supporting the diesel engine or in all-electric motoring. When coasting or applying the brakes, the electric motor acts as a generator and feeds electric power to the lithium-polymer battery in the car. The electric energy developed in this way is therefore captured without any additional consumption of fuel through the principle of Brake Energy Regeneration. Energy wasted on the brakes of a conventional car is thus saved within the new power system for subsequent use in driving the car.



A second electric motor acts on the front axle. This engine, a hybrid synchronous motor, offers continuous output of 80 horsepower and peak torque of 162 lb-ft. Extra power of 112 horsepower is available for a period of up to 30 seconds, and, for a 10-second "burst," the electric motor is able to develop 139 horsepower. The power is transmitted through a 2-stage, single-speed reduction gearbox.



BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is able to run completely under electric power, with the power of the turbodiesel engine alone, or through an infinite combination of the three power sources. Depending on driving conditions, the two electric motors may be used both for accelerating and for regenerating energy when applying the brakes and while coasting. This principle ensures efficient energy management, with the charge status of the lithium-polymer battery constantly remaining within the optimum range. When accelerating, the electric motors help to boost the car for even greater performance, ensuring immediate response and a significant reduction in fuel consumption. For a short time, such as in passing maneuvers, the cumulative maximum output of all three engines increases to 356 hp, with maximum torque generated by the three engines reaching 590 lb-ft.



Lithium-polymer battery for electrical energy.

The energy cells featured in BMW Vision EfficientDynamics are housed in a chassis element running from front to rear through the middle of the car. The front unit is the lithium-polymer complex, an ongoing development of the lithium-ion battery. Overall, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics comes with a total of 98 lithium-polymer cells, each offering a capacity of 30 amp/hours and developing continuous output of 600 Amps at a voltage of 3.7 V. For a period of 30 seconds, each cell is even able to develop maximum output of 1,200 Amps.



Serial arrangement of the lithium-polymer cells serves to generate nominal voltage of 364 volts, the gross storage capacity of the battery is 10.8 kW/h. With an unusually high discharge capacity of 80 percent, the battery delivers 8.6 kW/h for driving the car. This superior performance comes on overall weight of the entire energy storage system of just 187 lb. A further advantage is that through their optimum dimensions tailored to the specific qualities and features of the car, the lithium-polymer cells, together with the operating strategy chosen with a concept of "forward looking" energy management, reduces the thermal load acting on the battery to such an extent that there is no need for active cooling.



Plug-in solution: convenient charging of the electric power system from a conventional power socket.

Brake Energy Regeneration captures electric power generated while driving without additional fuel consumption, which is subsequently used to supply power to the electric motors and on-board network. A further option is to connect the lithium-polymer cells to a conventional power socket for a simple and efficient charge process, using a plug-in connector in the front-right wing of the car. Connected to a standard EU power outlet (220 V, 16 Amps), the system requires a maximum of 2 ½ hours to fully charge the lithium-polymer cells. And wherever a power source with higher voltage and amperage (380 V, 32 Amps) is available, the charge time is an even shorter 44 minutes.



In addition to electrical energy storage, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics comes with a conventional fuel tank at the rear end of the central chassis tunnel, offering a capacity of 6.6 gallons. Running on diesel fuel alone, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is able to cover a distance of approximately 400 miles with its combustion engine. Benefitting from an extra range of up to 31 miles in the all-electric mode, the car offers an overall range of approximately 431 miles. As a result, this unique concept car offers all the requirements for using energy with maximum efficiency and at the same time experiencing the dynamic performance typical of BMW without any restriction of everyday driving qualities.



Performance, fuel efficiency and emission management opening new dimensions in hybrid technology.

The power delivered by the two electric motors and single diesel 3-cylinder engine gives the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept a level of performance superior to anything provided so far by a hybrid vehicle. Acceleration from a standstill to 100 km/h, for example, comes in just 4.8 seconds and the car could exceed its electronically-limited 155 mph top speed.



At the same time fuel efficiency and emission management now reach a standard only achieved, if at all, by far less powerful small cars conceived for city traffic and short distances. Applying the criteria of the EU test cycle, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics offers average fuel consumption equal to 62.6 mpg. CO2 emissions, in turn, are 99 grams per kilometer. These consumption and emission figures are measured on a consistent internal power balance, meaning that the batteries and storage media for electrical energy maintain the same charge level throughout the entire test cycle (with the same level at the beginning and end) and are charged while driving only by the car's on-board systems.



As a plug-in hybrid, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is able to cover the entire drive cycle for measuring fuel consumption also with its combustion engine completely switched off. Then, to subsequently charge the lithium-polymer cells to the same status as when setting off, all the driver has to do is connect the car to an external power grid. To determine the consumption of electric power, the only requirement is to compare the charge level of the battery before and after the test cycle. Applying this measurement process, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car consumes 17.5 kW/h per 100 kilometers, equal to a CO2 emission rating of just 50 grams per kilometer in the EU test cycle.



To determine the total volume of CO2 emissions when driving in the all-electric mode, new legal standards for measuring the level of fuel consumption are currently being prepared for hybrid and electric cars with a plug-in power supply. Applying this calculation method, the CO2 emission ratings generated by BMW Vision EfficientDynamics are reduced further to just one-third of the original figure of 99 grams per kilometer. Clearly, this significant reduction of emissions opens up a new dimension in BMW's EfficientDynamics development strategy in this unique concept car.



Aerodynamic qualities reflecting BMW's Motorsport experience.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics also takes a new approach in its design and streamlining, the body and the interior clearly expressing the unique combination of supreme efficiency and the sporting performance of the brand. Following BMW's design language, this concept car visualizes both highly efficient aerodynamics and intelligent lightweight construction.



In its design, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics differs from the usual low-emission car concepts. The principle of "form follows function" is not just for the overall look of the car, but embraces each and every detail. Measuring 48.8" in height and boasting a sweeping, arch-like roofline, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics offers the slender silhouette of a classic Gran Turismo. With the combustion engine fitted in front of the rear axle, the designers have succeeded in giving the car a very low front end, with the flow of air being further smoothened by active louvers in front of the radiator, which close completely when the need for cooling air is low. This efficient function follows in the footsteps of the active air flap control already used as a feature of BMW EfficientDynamics in some of BMW's current production models. As a further highlight, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics guides air smoothly and exactly as required into the car through an active air intake at the front.



Numerous details in the design of the body are based on the know-how BMW has gained in Motorsport, a number of body elements serving as air deflectors and guide vanes. Designed as ducts, for example, the A-pillars serve to channel the flow of air in the same way as the rear lights with their wing profile. The floor of the car is fully covered from front to rear and from one side to the other, thus maintaining a smooth surface to avoid any air swirl liable to increase fuel consumption. Slender openings around the front air dam guide the air flowing specifically into two closed ducts leading inside the front air dam to the wheel arches where the air comes out again through a very slim aperture at high speed, flowing just next to the outer wheel flanks. This air jet rests on the front wheels like a curtain and is therefore referred to most appropriately as the "air curtain." It provides a highly stabilizing effect.



Overall vehicle concept for a drag coefficient of just 0.22.

To further optimize the aerodynamic qualities of the entire vehicle and keep rolling resistance to a minimum, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics comes with tires and wheels of quite unusual size on a sports car. The tires measure 195/55, while large 21-inch wheels provide a contact surface on the road otherwise offered only by a much wider tire. In combination with the sophisticated axle geometry, this ensures agile driving behavior.



The extra-large wheel covers extending over part of the tire flanks add to the unique, very different look of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics from the side. The blade profile integrated in the wheels serves furthermore to reduce the negative effect of the turning wheels on the overall aerodynamics of the car. In all, these features optimizing the aerodynamic qualities of the car give the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car a very low drag factor (CX) of just 0.22.



Technological look as a strong impression of intelligent lightweight construction.

In both exterior and interior design, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics stands out clearly as a strong spearhead in technology. Many components of the vehicle are presented in full view expressing the "transparent" character of the car as a powerful visual feature of lightweight technology. The chassis and suspension of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics are made completely of aluminum; the roof and the outer skin on the doors are made almost completely of a special polycarbonate glass automatically darkening as a function of the light shining on the car.



Measuring 181.1" in length, 74.8" in width and 48.8" in height, this unique concept car offers ample space for up to four passengers and their luggage. Thanks to the consistent lightweight construction strategy applied on the car, curb weight is 3,076 lb, with the center of gravity remaining very low. In its power-to-weight ratio, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car is far superior to all other hybrid cars, achieving the same standard as extremely dynamic sports cars with a conventional combustion engine.



Carrying a maximum payload of 981 lb, this unique 2+2-seater is fully suited for everyday traffic. Luggage capacity of 5.3 cu ft, in turn, allows the driver and passengers to conveniently take along two golf bags. And to meet additional loading requirements the backrests of the two rear seats may be tilted down individually to provide extra storage space.



Emotional design through sculptural shapes and layering technology.

Reflecting the innovative drive concept of this unique car, the design of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics likewise takes a new approach in combining functional progress with a most powerful emotional impact.



This has been achieved through the close cooperation of BMW's Design and Technical Development Divisions starting at an early point and continuing consistently throughout the entire development process. The result is a brand-new vehicle architecture with the drive components as well as the body and interior elements perfectly coordinated and matched to one another with maximum flexibility and individual style.



A fully integrated design philosophy also provided new options in using harmonized design principles connecting the exterior and the interior and providing an interacting effect between the two areas.



Sculptural design language giving BMW Vision EfficientDynamics a fully harmonized, complete look ensures the proportions typical of a BMW sports car. The front, side, rear and roof areas, for example, flow smoothly into one another. Dynamically contoured surfaces and shapes, in turn, create highly attractive light and shade effects accentuating the light and sporting character of the car in an emotional manner.



Layering technology developed by the BMW Group Design Division acts as the fundamental guideline in designing the exterior and interior. Applied for the first time in exterior design, this technology layers one surface on top of the other, creating very smooth seams and joints to reduce the number of components and, accordingly, the weight of the car. As a result, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics meets the most demanding aerodynamic requirements without using any additional body elements, simply through the structure of the surfaces optimized for a smooth flow of air.



Interior: innovative lightweight construction and unprecedented orientation to the driver.

In the design of the interior, innovative layering technology provides an unprecedented symbiosis of function and stylish shapes intentionally reduced to a minimum, consistently implementing and visualizing the lightweight principle also inside the car.



Specific components such as the central air vent not only serving to enhance motoring comfort but also acting as part of the cockpit, perform several functions in one. This multi-functionality is then presented visibly within the car, the use of particularly sophisticated materials providing a highly attractive combination of innovation in technology and quality clear to the eye and the touch of the surface.



This interaction of lightweight construction and individual well-being also comes out clearly in the design of the controls and switches, with a leather band, for example, running round the aluminum gear selector lever on the center console. Materials combining lightweight technology and all the qualities required are also to be admired all round the cockpit of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics, giving the car an unusually generous feeling of space for a 2+2-seater. The body-contoured seats, for example, are made up of a kevlar shell, a backbone structure, and seat padding with personalized fillings. Clearly, this combination alone ensures comfort at a minimum weight. The driver's and front passenger's seats are connected firmly to the center console to form a joint interior "landscape", while the rear seats anchored on the floor would appear to be hovering in space. Natural materials and light colors on the seat upholstery and all interior linings underline the light, sophisticated and sustainability-oriented atmosphere within the passenger compartment.



The instrument panel is deliberately padded only where technical components have to be appropriately covered, thus making an important contribution to passenger safety in the event of a collision. The instrument cluster played a fundamental role right from the start in the design process, serving as the starting point for all surfaces within the interior and thus creating a particularly powerful rendition of that driver orientation typical of BMW.



Innovative light technology: providing clear signals to the outside and offering soothing ambient illumination inside in a unique symbiosis.

LED lights at both the front and rear end of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics provide an innovative combination of the symbols typical of the brand and clear design language oriented towards trendsetting technology. The distinctive look of the dual round headlights characteristic of a BMW is emphasized in particular by the use of LED technology. The rear lights are integrated also in their function into the design of the entire rear section, forming part of the rear air deflector and thus merging completely into the rear contour.



Extremely flat and compact, the rear lights are made up of innovative LED units forming a smooth and consistent red surface when not in use. Only when used do the respective light chambers take on the appropriate color such as yellow on the direction indicators. This innovative light technology also provides an intense symbiosis of the exterior and interior, again promoting and further refining the driving experience.



This is also why the ambient illumination of the interior comes with new features and qualities, the light sources within the passenger compartment being fed from the positioning lights at the side, the rear lights and the brake lights, thus changing the atmosphere created by the lights within the car as a function of driving conditions.



The optical impression conveyed by BMW Vision EfficientDynamics also results in other areas from the symbiosis of the exterior and interior, eliminating the conventional barriers between the two. The lines within the interior, for example, continue on to the innovative design of the engine compartment lid, while in its shape the third brake light positioned higher up on the car follows the structure of the glass roof and tapers to the outside where the roofline moves down gently to the rear.



Overhead doors for convenient access to all seats.

The doors on BMW Vision EfficientDynamics open up like bird's wings, turning on pivots in the front roof column at the level of the side direction indicators. Since the car has no B-pillars, the large door cutouts ensure convenient entry also to the rear seats. The pivots on the doors also provide the base for the exterior mirrors, thus forming an ideal combination of function and aesthetic design. The structure of the doors is also characterized by several layers of materials on top of one another and the optical and functional symbiosis of the interior and exterior this technology is able to offer. Made up of three layers, the overall structure comprises the outer glass surface, an interim load-bearing layer, and the interior cover with its particularly smooth shapes and fl owing forms clearly visible to the passengers, layering technology again, therefore, opening up new perspectives.



The large glass surfaces extending far down on the body also provide a strong optical impression of the low seating position close to the road. And at the same time a stable sidebar ensures the body stiffness and crash safety naturally required on every vehicle. Flowing to the inside at its central point, this safety element also serves as an armrest. This interplay of the three layers also helping to minimize the weight of the car continues on the trim bar running along the door and extending out of the armrest, finally flowing into the outer door opener on its path from inside to outside.



Clear focus on the essential: 3-dimensional Head-Up Display.

Layering technology is also used on the displays in the instrument cluster and in the Head-Up Display developed to an even higher standard on BMW's new concept car. The Display now creates a powerful impression of three dimensions, at the same time providing the option to present various signals more in the front or more in the background, depending on their relevance and current driving conditions.



The Head-Up Display projects information important to the driver on to the windscreen. Indeed, innovative presentation technology even allows the superimposed presentation of several views in three dimensions, keeping, the gauge graphics visible in the background while the latest information on route guidance or warning signals from BMW Night Vision, for example, are shown in the foreground.



The sequence in which such signals appear depends on the driving mode chosen by the driver, the display technology, again depending on the driver's personal preference, enhancing a particularly sporting, a more comfort oriented, or an efficiency-based style of motoring. Through its design alone, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car clearly shows that highly efficient individual mobility may by all means be presented in emotional style. BMW already offers models in all vehicle segments which, compared with the competition, ensure the lowest level of fuel consumption and emissions combined with superior power and performance.



And now BMW Vision EfficientDynamics confirms BMW's commitment to offer a perfect combination in future of unique driving pleasure and optimum qualities in the responsible use of natural resources.



In the design process the need for sustainable management is borne out most clearly by the GINA (Geometry and Functions in N-fold Augmentation) concept developed by the BMW Group. In this case maximum creative freedom sets the foundation for innovative solutions challenging the conventional and meeting the requirements of the future. This makes the GINA principle particularly well-suited for developing visions for the future reflecting both the wish for emotional style and individual character as well as the quest for sustainable management and efficiency. From the dimensions of its wheels through the design of the rear lights and all the way to the configuration of the cockpit, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics therefore boasts a number of details both outside and inside which, going far beyond conventional solutions, open up a new approach to maximum efficiency and that Dynamic ability typical of BMW.



Forward-looking energy management adjusting to individual requirements.

With the individual system components on board BMW Vision EfficientDynamics being networked with one another, conditions are perfect for implementing a forward-looking system of energy management using information gathered by the sensors of the driver assistance units fitted in the car. Data provided, for example, by the rain sensor or Active Cruise Control with its Stop & Go function as well as by the navigation system, and subsequently evaluated by the central control unit, offers an overview of current and upcoming driving conditions. Then, evaluating such data, the on-board computer is able to forecast driving conditions on the stretch of road immediately ahead, such calculations serving to prepare the car for upcoming requirements and make efficient use of the energy available through optimum operation of all systems.



Should the high-performance central computer establish, for example, that the driver is about to take the motorway, the power used for running the cooling system is reduced for a certain period in advance, on the assumption that the short increase in coolant temperature resulting from such an energy-saving measure will quickly be set off by the higher speed of the car on the motorway. Another example of such pre-conditioning is the regeneration of energy from the air conditioning, from Electronic Power Steering and the Brake Assistant.

Production of Toyota Corolla transferring from NUMMI to Ontario

As even mighty Toyota finds itself with excess production capacity in North America and elsewhere, the Japanese automaker has finally made the decision to shutter an assembly plant. The loss of the Pontiac Vibe means that it wasn't viable to keep the NUMMI factory in Fremont, CA operating on its own, but the rest of the products it builds are still in demand to varying degrees.


We've already heard that production of the mid-size Tacoma pickup truck would be consolidated with its big brother the Tundra in San Antonio TX. The other remaining product from NUMMI was the Corolla sedan. The volume that had been produced in California will reportedly now come out Toyota's Cambridge, Ontario factory where the compact car is already built. It's not known at this time if the move will result in any additional jobs at the Cambridge plant. Thanks for the tip, Dave!


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The 2010 Model Year Lotus Exige Cup 260

Starting with the release of the Exige Cup 240 in '06, Lotus has built up quite the following for its track-focused but built-for-the-road model. For the 2010 variant called the Exige Cup 260, Lotus shaves off a few pounds by upping the carbon-fiber treatment.


Design-wise, the front end was restyled with a more angular air intake and a new aerodynamic splitter. By adding a carbon-fiber roof panel, rear tailgate, center tunnel, front splitter, side air ducts and rear spoiler, more than 25 pounds of weight was shaved - a hefty contribution to the close to 84 pounds total cut from last year's model.



Handling is improved with its 30 percent stiffer rear chassis, forged alloy wheels wrapped in Yokohama A048 rubber and two-way adjustable Ohlins dampers. Stopping power comes from huge 12.1-inch front and 11.1-inch rear cross-drilled and ventilated brake discs with AP Racing and Brembo calipers. Buyers can opt for a programmable launch control system that allows the driver to choose the number of RPMs they wish to use during a standing start.


Taking design cues from the Exige GT3 racecar, the 260 has a supercharged and intercooled four-cylinder Toyota engine that makes the sprint to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds. It lays down 257 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque and comes standard with a lightweight flywheel, torque-sensing limited-slip diff, sports-type clutch plate and a smaller battery that further cuts weight.


he car retails for just under $75,000 in the U.K. and is street legal within the entire European Union and North America.
Source:blogs.edmunds

Hamann's Beastly 600HP Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG Supercharged

Never quite understood the logic behind the creation of stupendously powerful off-roaders with supercar-like performance, but maybe that's exactly what makes them so attractive to those that can afford them: they don't make any sense to the rest of us... Hamann's latest take on the Mercedes-Benz G55 AMG fits perfectly in this category of vehicles.


As if the factory model's supercharged V8 with 507HP wasn't powerful enough, the German tuner performed its magic upgrades to bump output to 600HP and 782Nm or 577 lb-ft of torque. The modifications result to a 0-100km/h (62mph) sprint time of 5.1 seconds and a maximum speed of 261 km/h or 163mph. That's compared to the standard G55 AMG's 5.5 second sprint time and 210km/h or 131mph electronically governed top speed.


What some may call 'lipstick on a pig', Hamann identifies as an aero kit that comprises of a front spoiler with integrated LED daytime running lights, a rear skirt that incorporates a diffuser and a roof spoiler while the six tailpipes (three on each side), complete the looks.


The package include fender extensions that broaden the G-model by 40 mm at the front axle and 60 mm at the back axle allowing the use of ridiculously large 24-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 315/35 R24 tires.


The G55 AMG's interior can been deupgraded with aluminum accessories, a 24-part set made of carbon fibre, specific floor mats, a new steering wheel as well as custom velour upholstery.


Optionally, Hamann offers a 14-part exterior set made of carbon fibre for the air inlets on the bonnet, radiator grill, headlight protective grid, mirror cases, door handles and air inlets in the side wings.
Source:carscoop

First Drive: Rossion Q1 is a supercar for the slightly rich

"How fast can you take it?" I ask Craig Spuhler, Rossion's technical engineer and my passenger at this particular moment in time. "About 75 mph with an 85 mph exit speed." I was behind the wheel of a Rossion Q1 winding my way up a 270-degree decreasing radius on-ramp that shoots straight onto Florida's I-95. As Spuhler has put more miles on Rossions than anyone else alive, and I'd been in the car all of 15 minutes, I decided that 65 mph was a nice, sane, journalist-safe speed. Even in fourth gear there was enough twin-turbo'd torque to get me to 80 mph by the end of the ramp. Truth is, I could've done the deed at 75 mph in third, if not much, much faster.


Read full story from autoblog

Mercedes-Benz Launches New Fuel Cell Car: Mercedes-BenzB Class F-CELL

Mercedes-Benz B Class F-CELL - New fuel cell car from Mercedes-Benz: 100 percent driving pleasure, zero emissions

Mercedes-Benz is launching its first series-produced fuel cell car on the road: the new B?Class F-CELL. The environmentally friendly electric car has better a performance similar to than a 2,0-litre petrol car and is fully suited for everyday driving. The zero-emission drive system consumes the equivalent of 3.3 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres in the NEDC (New European Driving Cicle). Production of the B?Class F-CELL will commence in late 2009 with a small lot. The first of around 200 vehicles will be delivered to customers in Europe and the USA at the beginning of next year.

The new fuel cell vehicle offers everything that people expect from a Mercedes-Benz: High comfort and safety as well as no reduction in interior space and boot capacity. Customers will not have to sacrifice any driving pleasure either, because the electric motor has a peak performance of 100 kW/136 hp and a maximum torque of 290 Nm, which is available from the first rotation. It ensures that the B?Class F-CELL, whose impressive dynamic handling properties are in some cases far better than those of a two-litre petrol car, gets off to an excellent start. Despite these qualities, the zero-emission fuel cell drive consumes the equivalent of only 3.3 litres of diesel fuel per 100 kilometres (NEDC). Thanks to its great range of about 400 kilometres and short refuelling times of around three minutes, the B?Class F-CELL ensures local zero-emission mobility even for long stretches.


"2009 is the year in which we are establishing further milestones where sustainable mobility is concerned. The B-Class F-CELL is taking on a pioneering role as the world's first fuel cell powered automobile to be produced under series production conditions", says Dr. Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research and Development for Mercedes-Benz Cars.

The vehicle's technological heart is the new generation of the compact, high-performance fuel cell system, in which gaseous hydrogen reacts with atmospheric oxygen at 700 bar to generate a current for the electric motor. The fuel cell system of the B?Class F-CELL has a very good cold-start capability even at temperatures as low as minus 25 degrees Celsius. The drive system was completely newly developed versus the F-CELL A-Class presented in 2004, with Mercedes-Benz engineers achieving considerable improvements in output, torque, operating range, reliability, starting characteristics and comfort. The B-Class F-CELL now offers driving pleasure and day-to-day suitability at Mercedes level - without local emissions.

As in hybrids with combustion engines, the fuel-cell car uses a lithium-ion battery with an output of 35 kW and a capacity of 1.4 kWh to boost power and recover braking energy. Lithium-ion technology offers several advantages over conventional batteries, including compact dimensions, high performance, great recharge efficiency and a long service life.

The B?Class F-CELL employs the unique sandwich floor architecture that is well-known from the A- and B-Class. The advantage of this design is that the drive components are located in the sandwich floor, where they are protected and don't take up much space so that the vehicle's interior remains fully usable and a boot capacity of 416 litres is available.

The B-Class F-CELL does not need to fear comparison where equipment is concerned either. Eye-catching features include a bonamite silver paint finish and exclusive light-alloy wheels in a 10-spoke design. In the interior, leather upholstery, seat heating, automatic climate control and the COMAND-system, as well as other features, continue to ensure a high level of comfort.


Same level of safety as in other Mercedes cars

No matter what the conditions, the operational reliability of the B?Class F-CELL is of the same high level as in Mercedes vehicles with conventional combustion engines. The B?Class F-CELL's integrated safety concept takes the specific characteristics of the innovative drive system into account. The concept incorporates the expertise from the many years of experience Mercedes-Benz has had with fuel cell drives and high-voltage applications. Mercedes engineers have tested and optimised the drive-specific components' safety in more than 30 additional crash tests.

Network of filling stations required for car's widespread use

With more than 100 test vehicles and a combined total of over 4.5 million kilometres of trial testing, Daimler and Mercedes-Benz have the most extensive experience with fuel cell vehicles of any manufacturer worldwide. The B?Class F-CELL is further testimony of this technology's high level of development for automotive use. However, a comprehensive network of hydrogen filling stations still has to be set up before locally zero-emission driving can become a widespread reality. To make this possible, Daimler is cooperating with government authorities, energy utilities and oil companies in joint projects in places such as Hamburg, Stuttgart and California.

Mercedes-Benz views the development of electric cars with battery and fuel cell drives for local zero-emission driving as a means of supplementing vehicles with high-tech internal combustion engines. Advanced diesel and petrol engines will remain important for automotive applications for a long time to come - not only for individual mobility in passenger cars - especially over long distances - but, more importantly, for freight transport in trucks. Electric vehicles, on the other hand, will increasingly be used in urban transport.

Mercedes-Benz B?Class F-Cell technical data

Drive	Electric motor with fuel cell
Rated output (kW/hp)	100/136
Rated torque (Nm)	290
Maximum speed (km/h)	170
Consumption (NEDC) (l of diesel equivalent/100 km)	3.3
Total CO2 (g/km min.–max.)	0.0
Range (km) NEDC	385
Capacity of lithium-ion battery (kWh/kW)	1.4/35
Cold-start capability:	to -25 °C

via:fuelcellsworks

Frankfurt Debut: Wiesmann GT MF4 MF5 Roadster

Wiesmann is building a sports-car on the IAA

Wiesmann, the luxury sports car maker, surprises the visitors of the most important car-exhibition in Frankfurt with a special feature. In addition to the announced world premiere of the Wiesmann Roadster MF5, the Duelmen manufacturer will mount a car during the car-exhibition. "On this way we will be able to show our manufacturing skills and our productive efficiency to the exhibition-visitors, the customers, and the media-exponents. Like in Duelmen everyone can take a look at our work in Frankfurt", says business manager Friedhelm Wiesmann. During the building-process of the GT MF4 with a 4.8 litre 367 horse-power engine, two members of the staff will finish the work on the car. Sports-car-fans from all over the world will be able to join that event on a digital webcam. The logistic for this one very special event has already started because the montage had to start back in Duelmen.


Wiesmann is also very exited about finding two major partners for this event. The magazine auto motor und sport (www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/iaa) will act as media partner and will broadcast the event website. Beyond that the tool-manufacturer Festool who will provide the tools needed for the car-building.


Wiesmann is exhibiting at Booth B18 in Hall 5.

About Wiesmann
Wiesmann is the leading manufactory of purist sports cars, combining classic design with state-of-the-art technology. Since its foundation by Friedhelm and Martin Wiesmann in 1988, Wiesmann stands for the manufacturing of individual sports cars whose every detail is crafted by hand. The premium features are designed according to the customers' personal preferences, so every Wiesmann is a truly unique car and one that creates an exclusive driving experience for the individual unlike no other.
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Videos: Nissan Pro Class 350Z

The first ever Pro Class 350Z to be seen in Europe will perform at the FIA European Finals at the Santa Pod Raceway in the UK that runs from September 10th to 13th, 2009. Created by owner and driver John Bradshaw, the Project Zed dragster is powered by a Nissan 350Z 3.5-litre V6 engine producing almost 1,900 horsepower.


"It's incredible to finally have the car ready to test now and we are all very excited by its potential. It really is a car that is capable of setting records around the world and just shows what a Nissan engine is capable of producing," said Bradshaw.


The lovingly prepared Project Zed is powered by a Nissan 350Z 3.5-litre V6 engine producing nearly 1,900bhp. Owner and driver John Bradshaw is thrilled to be taking his mighty machine to the famous Santa Pod Raceway, Northants. John comments: “It's incredible to finally have the car ready to test now and we are all very excited by its potential. It really is a car that is capable of setting records around the world and just shows what a Nissan engine is capable of producing.”


Nissan, which is supporting the Project Zed dragster, will have a stand at the show displaying its latest road-going sports cars, the GT-R and 370Z.


Source:carscoop

SPORTEC LAUNCHES 400 BHP STAGE ONE PERFORMANCE UPGRADE FOR NEW FLAGSHIP AUDI TT RS

Brackley, Northamptonshire, 24th August 2009

APS of Brackley, UK importer for the Sportec range of vehicle performance enhancements, is pleased to announce the launch of a Stage One engine performance upgrade for the new 335 bhp, turbocharged five cylinder Audi TT RS.

Careful data analysis by Sportec's technicians in Switzerland highlighted opportunities for performance enhancements within the standard Audi TT RS' engine management system, enabling the development of an effective ECU remap for the 2.5-litre TFSI engine.


From the factory, the Audi TT RS produces 335bhp at 5400 rpm and 450nm (328lb.ft) at 1600rpm. Sportec's Stage One ECU performance upgrade increases power to 400bhp at 5800rpm, while torque leaps to 401 lb.ft at 2650rpm.

Post conversion, the 0-100kmh time for the Audi TT RS falls from 4.6 to 4.2 seconds and in-gear acceleration times are greatly improved. Removal of the factory 155mph top speed limiter is included as part of the Sportec Stage One package.


Priced at £1200.00 fitted, including VAT @ 15%, the Sportec Audi TT RS Stage One performance upgrade is available now from APS of Brackley. For total peace of mind, Sportec's conversions are covered by a guarantee for the balance of the manufacturer's warranty.

Due to strong customer demand, a full program of additional complimentary performance, dynamic and styling upgrades for the Audi TT RS is currently in development at Sportec's base in Höri, Switzerland.


A demonstrator Audi TT RS, fitted with the Sportec Stage One performance upgrade, will be available for media testing soon.
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