Volvo Aims for Zero Accidents



Apr 19

At the "Design and the Elastic Mind" exhibit at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, Opel engineers are using nature to influence their design and technology. Check out an explanation about their display and their work from the people who make it possible.

Author: TheAutoChannel
Keywords: Opel design technology GM General Motors cars automobiles vehicles
Added: April 19, 2008

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written by roadflytv

Apr 19

One of the great automotive design challenges is reducing drag and improving efficiency while keeping a stylish look. In this latest volume of Studio Stories, Saab's design team gives you an inside look at the design behind the 9-X BioHybrid Concept and explains how aerodynamics shaped the car.

Author: TheAutoChannel
Keywords: Saab cars automobiles design hybrid 9-X biohybrid environment concept
Added: April 19, 2008

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written by roadflytv

Apr 19

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There was a panel discussion at this week’s SAE Congress that I couldn’t pass up. Titled “Fuel Cell Vehicle Panel: Challenges Remaining for Commercialization,” the session was a bit of a brainstorm on just how we might one day drive hydrogen-fueled cars with some of the people who are working quite diligently on the problem today. The panel featured Dr. Massimo Venturi, CTO of NuCellsys GmbH, Germany, Dr. Kev Adjemian, senior principle engineer, Nissan Fuel Cell Laboratory, Michigan, and Dr. James Miller, director, Electrochemical Technology Program, Argonne National Lab (for DOE), Fuel Cell Laboratory, Chicago. The three spoke and answered questions for about 30 minutes. Needless to say, the big problems weren’t solved in this half hour, but it was enlightening to hear from another industry panel where things stand today regarding the automobile and the hydrogen economy. Considering that the public’s perception of hydrogen fuel is currently defined (for many) as the Hindenberg explosion, there are more than just technological issues to deal with.

Because of the nature of the SAE Congress, I did not have permission to post the audio of this panel. Instead, I’ve detailed some of what was said and given a few of my own thoughts after the break.

Adjemian said in his introductory remarks that the competition between the different factions of the green car community really needs to be toned down (it’s not hard to notice the divide between EV and hydrogen proponents here on AutoblogGreen, for example). A lot of the technology that gets developed for one fuel type or powertrain type can later be transferred to another he said. I hear this a lot, mostly from the EDTA, which is the Electric Drive Transportation Association, and lumps hybrids, fuel cell vehicles and BEVs under the “electric drive” umbrella. While I certainly don’t expect anyone to stop promoting their own favorite technology (the comments section would be so boring if everyone did), I think Adjemian has a valid point about the mobility of some of the technology.

And Adjemian should know. Just two weeks ago, he left Japan for the U.S. to help Nissan set up a new hydrogen fuel cell laboratory here in Michigan sometime in the near future (late ‘08 or early ‘09, I think he said). To further hydrogen technology advancement, he said, Nissan is quite willing to partner with other companies in the fuel cell field. Nissan is willing to open their technology to the partner as much as the partner will open to them, he said.

One attendee asked about the amount of precious metal that is used in a fuel cell, compared to a standard gasoline or diesel engine. Today, a conventional ICE might have a few grams of platinum whereas today’s fuel cells use roughly 40 grams. Considering that the cost of platinum has doubled in recent years, finding ways to reduce the platinum content is paramount. The DOE does have an active program that is investing a lot of R&D funds into finding ways to reduce or eliminate platinum in hydrogen fuel cells.

Currently, the only private citizens who are driving hydrogen-fueled cars are a.) celebrities in a Hydrogen 7 or b.) people participating in some sort of automaker fuel cell vehicle test fleet (e.g., Project Driveway). When someone asked about the possibility of selling a small number of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles at a high price, creating a sort of niche market, Adjemian responded that this isn’t something that the OEMs are willing to do quite yet. After all, they are investing a lot of money in R&D on this technology and to see a return on all of that, hydrogen vehicles have got to become a large player in the market.

Miller said the DOE is not in the position to choose a pathway of hydrogen production for widespread use, but does prefer renewable sources of energy over fossil fuels as a way to produce hydrogen. Venturi’s view is that hydrogen production should be decided at the local level, so nuclear production might be best in France while other areas might get their hydrogen from biomass sources. Similarly, whether the hydrogen is produced on site or in a centralized regional area will be best defined by the hydrogen users/sellers. Customers, Venturi said, probably won’t care but costs will dictate what happens.

When a question was asked about any possible new sensors that will be needed in hydrogen fuel cell cars, Adjemian said that sensors certainly play an important role in making sure the FCV is safe (see: that Hindenberg issue) while Venturi said that he’d like to see fuel cells that are so stable that no sensors are needed. That comment drew laughs from the audience.

 

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written by Sebastian Blanco

Apr 19

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How brazen can you get? At least most of the Chinese auto-cloners automakers create their own renderings of the cars they are copying. HongQi, a "premium" brand produced by First Auto Works in China simply grabbed a couple of press shots of the Lincoln MKT concept from the Ford Media site and starting 'chopping. Regardless of what you might think of Lincoln's new styling direction (generally, we like it), the Chinese version is not easy on the eyes. You would think with three months to work on it since the Lincoln pics appeared they could find someone to do a more professional-looking job. The question is, will FAW get their version on the road before the production version of the MKT lands at Lincoln dealers in 2009?



[Source: China Car Times]

 

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written by Sam Abuelsamid

Apr 19

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A couple of weeks ago, GM VP for Research and Development Larry Burns spoke to the National Hydrogen Association. The focus of his talk was to encourage energy companies to get moving with deploying hydrogen filling stations to support a fleet fuel cell vehicles. GM, Toyota and Honda were all at the NHA conference and the three - along with Daimler - have all indicated their confidence in the efficiency, effectiveness, and durability of fuel cell technology. Burns acknowledged it will take several generations of the technology with increased production volumes to get to a point where it is as affordable as today’s powertrains. However, it’s difficult for automakers to justify building cars if energy companies won’t open retail filling stations. In order to make its Project Driveway program happen, GM had to purchase hydrogen fueling systems to support the 100 Chevy Equinox fuel cell vehicles. Burns called on the industry to roll out 40 stations within the three counties of Los Angeles and along corridors to Santa Barbara, Palm Springs and Las Vegas and San Diego. Such an implementation would put hydrogen with convenient reach of the entire population of the the Los Angeles area. Burns would like to see this happen before the next wave of fuel cell vehicles is rolled out in the next few years. You can listen to Burns speech here.

[Source: GMnext.com]

 

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written by Sam Abuelsamid

Apr 19

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written by Malcolm \\ tags:

Apr 19
What's the most experience car you have catched? No matter what, now, the Bugatti Veyron will excess your imagination.

The Bugatti Veyron 16.4 now lands on the China market at the 2008 Beijing Auto Show, with pricing at 25million RMB.

The
Bugatti Veyron, most exclusive sports car of all time is following in the footsteps of the legendary Bugatti, those universally-coveted limousines and unbeatable racing cars of the 1920s and 1930s which today are among the most sought-after creations from the early days of automobile construction.

This brings to an end the era of design models and concept cars which since the late 1990s have signposted possible paths to the Bugattis of the future.

Design and technological concept have finally become reality in the Veyron model’s final form and will be available from the beginning of 2004 as a strictly limited edition of just 300 cars.


Technologically futuristic and packed with creative engineering, the first Bugatti of the 21st century has arrived.

Come of the Bugatti Veyron.

The Bugatti Veyron 16.4’s home is in Molsheim-Dorlisheim, the French town where, almost 100 years ago, Ettore Bugatti began to realize his lifelong dream of being a car manufacturer.

The new workshop is not just where the engine and vehicle are assembled and tested, it is also the place where customers collect their Bugattis and drive them out onto the streets for the first time.

The aim is to turn Molsheim into an all-round Bugatti center once again. While up to 70 new vehicles a year are built by hand in the new facility, neighboring specially-equipped workshops are the scene of expert restoration work on historic Bugatti vehicles. Both past and future have found a new home here.

Related 2008 Beijing Auto Show Cars:
+
2008 Beijing Auto Show: 2009 Audi Q5
+ 2008 Beijing Auto Show: Buick Invicta Sleek Car
+ 2008 Beijing Motor Show: Geely NL SUV Preview

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written by Horisly \\ tags:

Apr 19

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At 6:30 this morning, a stunt driver shooting a scene for the upcoming James Bond flick, Quantum of Solace, lost control of an Aston Martin DBS while filming a chase scene and plunged into Lake Garda in Rome. The film's executive producer, Anthony Waye, said that the scene was being shot in the pouring rain, and although the DBS didn't survive it's unplanned excursion into the water, the driver sustained only minor injuries and was released from the hospital earlier this afternoon. MI6 declined to comment on the incident, but a spokesperson for the agency remarked that the submersible kit for the Aston was under development. Too little, too late Q.

Thanks for the tip MaTTia.


[Source: Reuters.it - translated]

 

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written by Damon Lavrinc

Apr 19

Roewe and MG will be present at the 2008 Beijing auto show together on April 20-28 for the first time after SAIC merged Nanjing Auto earlier this month.

SAIC said that the MG, Roewe, Roewe 550, Lavida and Shanghai-brand plug-in fuel cell-powered sedan will stay in the spotlight of the show platform.

SAIC will bring to the show all its manufacturers of passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles and auto parts under its brand. Roewe550, MG TF, MG 3SW and MG7 Sport version will be displayed on passenger vehicle platform.

Roewe550 is likely to draw more attention as it is the second self-developed own-brand model of SAIC. It will be powered by the 1.8 –liter 1.8T engine.

But the most people's focus is on the MF TF or the MG3 SW will be revealed at the 2008 Auto China?

The MG3 SW is rumor to be unvealed has spread wide away ahead the auto show, but as the show is approaching, this can't confirm still. by contraries, the MG TF is too impatient to wait debut after sometime dreariness.




Anyway, we are all looking forward to see the first
MG roadster sport cars, the TF. Just wating....

Related 2008 Beijing Auto Show Cars:
+
2008 Beijing Auto Show: 2009 Audi Q5
+ 2008 Beijing Auto Show: Buick Invicta Sleek Car
+ 2008 Beijing Motor Show: Geely NL SUV Preview

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written by Horisly \\ tags:

Apr 19

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The Grocery Manufacturers Association. Not a group we hear from a lot on a site dedicated to cleaner vehicle technology. Today, though, in preparation for Earth Day, we saw a message from the GMA titled “This Earth Day, an Unlikely Foe: Biofuels” and wanted to see what they had to say. As the headline suggests, the GMA is taking a stance against biofuels made from food sources and all of the problems that can occur thanks to “the rush to find a ‘homegrown’ solution to global warming.” The GMA invited three people - Lester Brown of the Earth Policy Institute, Ken Cook of the Environmental Working Group, and Jonathan Lewis of the Clean Air Task Force - to Washington, D.C. this week to speak out against using food sources to make biofuels. The short list of what’s wrong with growing crops to make fuel are:

  • increased environmental damage in the form of pollution from coal-fired ethanol refineries
  • runoff from fertilizer
  • rapid deforestation in the developing world
  • an inflationary effect on food prices
  • potential to prove a major setback to organic farming

We’ve heard a lot of criticisms of corn-based ethanol in the past, but that the drive to grow more corn for ethanol could hurt the organic farming movement in the U.S. is a new one. Makes sense to me, though. More details in the press release after the jump.

Press Release:

This Earth Day, an Unlikely Foe: Biofuels

Experts discuss unintended environmental and social consequences of “food-to-fuel” mandates

WASHINGTON, April 17 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — Today, three top environmental experts addressed reporters, calling attention to the serious consequences of Congressional food-to-fuel mandates on the environment, world hunger, and American consumers. The experts also urged Congress to revisit these policies.

Lester Brown of the Earth Policy Institute, Ken Cook of the Environmental Working Group, and Jonathan Lewis of the Clean Air Task Force were invited by the Grocery Manufacturers Association to share their views on biofuels. They argued that in the rush to find a “homegrown” solution to global warming, the United States ignored the unintended consequences of such policies. The biofuel boom, they explained, has led to increased environmental damage in the form of pollution from coal-fired ethanol refineries, runoff from fertilizer and rapid deforestation in the developing world as farmers rush to take advantage of high commodity prices.

“Congressional biofuel mandates were meant to help reduce the carbon dioxide emissions associated with gasoline consumption,” said Jonathan Lewis of the Clean Air Task Force. “However, recent studies show that this well-intentioned policy has actually led to greater environmental challenges, including a net increase in carbon emissions from deforestation.”

Ken Cook of the Environmental Working Group added that food-to-fuel mandates are also having an inflationary effect on food prices, and have the potential to prove a major setback to organic farming.

“With over a quarter of American corn being diverted to ethanol production, food prices have been rising at twice the pace of overall inflation,” Cook said. “At that rate, many farmers will opt out of organic agriculture, seeking instead to maximize chemically-intensive conventional production. And after decades of encouraging growth, we will see a contraction in the organic agriculture industry.”

Cook noted that with tightening supplies for organic grains, the organic dairy and poultry industries would be particularly vulnerable.

“We are importing more of our organic grain and soybeans from China,” said Cook.

Recent Producer Price Index data shows that the price of “intermediate goods” used in food production and for animal feed have increased at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of almost 40%. At the same time, global food prices have increased by 57% over the past year, leading to hunger strikes and violence around the world. World Bank President Robert Zoellick recently called on all the world’s rich nations to act immediately in order to avoid widespread unrest and conflict.

The three experts argued that a “flying-blind” approach to U.S. biofuel policy has played a role in recent global strife.

“This Earth Day, it is imperative that we examine the effects our so-called environmental ’solutions’ are having on vulnerable ecosystems and populations,” said Lester Brown, President of the Earth Policy Institute. “As we are rushing to fill our fuel tanks with corn, we are affecting the global price of food and contributing to the destruction of the forests and other vital natural systems we meant to protect. Misguided biofuel mandates are actually exacerbating environmental harms and causing human suffering while failing to truly deliver energy independence,” said Brown.

The panelists also called on Congress to put added emphasis on developing cellulosic fuels that are derived from plant-waste, switchgrass, and other non-food stock.

Lewis noted, “The environment, American consumers, and vulnerable populations around the world need Congress to revisit these food-to-fuel mandates immediately. Our policies to fight climate change shouldn’t make winning that fight more difficult.”

[Source: Grocery Manufacturers Association]

 

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written by Sebastian Blanco

Apr 19

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Scuderi has been hard at work refining its split-cycle engine technology for the last few years, and the company believes that it's close to another milestone. Though still far from production, testing has recently validated an important aspect of the design involving the valvetrain, so vice president Stephen Scuderi believes that he is close to licensing the technology to other manufacturers.

The split-cycle engine is intended to be an improvement on the traditional Otto cycle and acts a bit like the Miller cycle. Instead of using a mechanical supercharger, though, the Scuderi design uses paired cylinders to compress air, which is then used to prevent reversion of the exhaust gases into the intake tract. It is also possible to store some of this compressed air to power the vehicle as part of a hybrid drivetrain. If this seems to make little sense (don't worry, you're not alone), click past the break for a computer rendering of the engine running.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Continue reading Scuderi split-cycle engine almost ready for sale to automakers

 

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written by Jeremy Korzeniewski

Apr 19
Abstract: 2008 Beijing Auto Show Debut Cars: The 2009 Audi Q5.

For months now we've seen spy photos and heard speculation about Audi's new Q5 CUV. Now, we finally have the official news on the latest entry from Ingolstadt. Unlike its big brother the Q7, the Q5 doesn't share an architecture with a VW model.

The Q5 bears a strong family resemblance to the A4 Avant, while at same time being distinct. When Audi designers were discussing the rationale behind the styling, they began with the beltline that's found on all the newest four-ringed offerings.

In Audi's design language, that beltline crease is referred to as the "Tornado Line". While it is a common element to recent Audi designs, it is slightly different on each.

On the A5 coupe, the line sticks out slightly from the body and has a more pronounced curvature over the wheels. On the A4 there is a slight overhang with the upper body work being further out than the metal below it and more of straight shot from front to back.

The Q5 has more of the curvature of the A5, but the tornado line fades out as it crosses the door panels and then resumes ahead of the rear wheel.

The Q5 diverges again from its siblings by having a second, more subtle, accent line that starts at the cut-line of the hood and stretches along the sides just below the side glass, eventually wrapping upward around the rear quarter window in a manner similar to the Saab 9-4x, but in a less pronounced way.

Compared to the A4 Avant, the shape of the side glass is similar, but the with slightly different proportions. On the crossover, the greenhouse is taller, but foreshortened.

This is most noticeable in the rear quarter window which has a similar shape to the A4, but with a forward sloping trailing edge that isn't as long. Further down the lower edge is a darker colored rocker panel to help reduce the visual impression of height.

At the rear, there's a subtle diffuser-like panel under the bumper which appears to me merely cosmetic. The taillights taper toward the center of the tailgate like the A4, and the lower edge follows the cut-line of the rear bumper cover and goes into the upper edge of the license plate cavity.

Overall, the Q5 is comparable in size to an Infiniti EX, BMW X3 or Acura RDX, with the proportions and interior volume more similar to the Acura than the other two.

The Acura has a six-inch shorter wheelbase, but that mostly seems to be manifested in a longer front overhang rather than interior volume. The Infiniti EX35, on the other hand, is within a half-inch of the Q5's wheelbase, but has virtually no rear leg room.

The Audi appears to have substantially more for occupants in both rows (with the exception of the the center rear passenger). The rear seats also have an angle adjustment for the seat backs.

The roof-line has a subtle downward slope toward the rear, aiding the impression of sportiness. Fortunately, the slope is small enough that it doesn't really impact rear head room.

Even with the available panoramic sunroof, there should be ample room in back for people on the tall side. Speaking of that sunroof, the glass stretches back over both rows of seats, with the front half popping up and sliding back over the rear much like the unit in the Q7. Cargo space behind the rear seat is also plentiful, with lots of space for four and their weekend luggage.

One element of the Q5 that the Audi designers emphasized was the grille. Going forward, Audi's allroad and Q models will have the the vertical bars on the grille that are more emphasized.
The normal car models, like the A, S and RS, will emphasize the horizontal bars. On the Q5, at least the license plate bar has also moved downward within the grille area.

As usual, US buyers will get a much more limited palette of drivetrains to select from. In fact, there will be no selections. The US gets a 3.2L FSI gasoline V6 with a fast-shifting ZF six-speed automatic and quattro all-wheel drive.

Like the A4/A5, the quattro has a nominal 40/60 front rear split. In the Q5, the normally aspirated V-6 will generate 265hp and 243lb-ft of torque. European buyers will have a plethora of choices including diesels.

The prototype we saw in Ingolstadt had the 2.0L TDI four -cylinder. According to the Audi engineers we talked to, Audi's new hybrid system is likely to appear first on the Q5 in the US market, but that probably won't happen before 2010.

Gas-fueled V6 Q5s should start to turn up at US Audi dealers in the first quarter of 2009 with prices that Audi says will be in line with competitors.


The base will likely start somewhere in the upper $30k range and may well hit $50k with all the goodies installed.

Related 2008 Beijing Auto Show Cars:
+
2008 Beijing Auto Show: Buick Invicta Sleek Car
+ 2008 Beijing Motor Show: Geely NL SUV Preview
+ 2008 Beijing Auto Show: Nissan Livina

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written by Horisly \\ tags:

Apr 19
Abstract: The long-waited Buick Invicta concept is finally being revealed at the open press of the 2008 Beijing Auto China today, as Buick's strongest statement yet of its deliberately international plans.

This Buick Invicta four-door midsize sedan with a coupe-like roofline presents bold direction for Buick's new generation of vehicles in the world's two biggest automotive markets – the United States and China.

Invicta has evolved from
Buick concepts such as the 2004 Velite convertible and 2007 Riviera coupe, both of which received accolades for their thoroughly modern adaptation of classic Buick themes.

Invicta was designed collaboratively by GM centers of expertise in Warren, Mich. and Shanghai, China. The name, which is Latin for "invincible," returns to Buick after a 45-year hiatus in the United States.

"Buick's global appeal created an opportunity for GM Design Centers to elevate our collaboration to new levels. Using our virtual reality centers in Warren and Shanghai, designers fused the best ideas from both cultures during the development of the Invicta," said Edward T. Welburn, vice president, General Motors Global Design.

"The result will set a new design standard for Buick, and it couldn't have been achieved by one studio working in isolation. The Invicta represents another significant design milestone in Buick's history."

Invicta is powered by Buick's first direct injection turbocharged engine, a four-cylinder powerplant that produces 250 horsepower (186 kW) and 220 lb-ft (298 Nm) of torque. The engine is matched with a six-speed automatic transmission for maximum fuel efficiency.

Related Cars on the 2008 Beijing International Auto Show:
+
2008 Beijing Auto Show: Mercedes-Benz GLK SUV
+ 2008 Auto China Show: Volkswagen Lavida
+ 2008 Beijing Motor Show: Geely NL SUV Preview
+ 2008 Beijing Auto Show: Nissan Livina

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written by Horisly \\ tags:

Apr 19

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General Motors has just put a video featuring the designers of the new Buick Invicta concept discussing their new creation. The video is part of a series of "Studio Stories" episodes that GM has been producing over the past year. Exterior design lead Justin Thompson and other members of the team talk about the approach they took to create the concept that debuted at the Beijing Motor Show today. Although the Invicta is labeled as a concept this sleek four door is thought to be very close to the LaCrosse replacement that will probably debut sometime next year. The Invicta carries over a lot design elements from last years Riviera concept that also debuted in China and was a joint effort between members of GM's North American and Chinese design teams. If the next new Buick actually stays true to this concept, there may be hope for the brand yet. Check out the video after the jump.


[Source: GMnext]

Continue reading VIDEO: Buick Invicta designers talk about their new concept

 

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written by Sam Abuelsamid

Apr 19

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Click on the image to view high-resolution shots

Mercedes-Benz often appears on our pages, but we’re not sure if the Trailblazer has ever been mentioned here before. Today, we fix that. OK, not that Trailblazer, but a new bicycle from Mercedes-Benz with the assistance of German cycle manufacturer ADP Engineering GmbH. Offered in both mens and womens versions, the full-suspension mountain bike features the tried-and-true four-link arrangement at the rear along with an air-shock and comes fully equipped for whatever you could throw at it with an aluminum and magnesium frame, Rock Shox front suspension and fully hydraulic Avid Juicy Five disc brakes. As you may expect from any machine carrying the three-pointed star, it ain’t cheap, starting at $4,400 in Europe, but it likely the cheapest way to bring a new Benz into your garage. Full press release and technical details after the break.

Press Release:

New top model for the Mercedes-Benz 2008 Bike Collection: The trailblazer

From May 2008, Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH is adding a new mountain bike to its exclusive Bike Collection. The all-mountain machine with its high-quality components and elegant design is perfect for serious off-road riding. The impressive features of this high-end cycle include a sophisticated four-link rear suspension that ensures outstanding riding comfort and excellent traction on difficult terrain. The bike is available in a Sport Edition and a Comfort Edition, with a number of parts specially adapted to the different physiques of men and women.

With the uncompromisingly high quality of its equipment, its premium craftsmanship and its modern design, the new Mercedes-Benz mountain bike fulfils the high demands of experienced cycling enthusiasts. At its heart is an elegant and functional full-suspension frame with a sophisticated four-link rear suspension. The high-quality aluminium design was developed in collaboration with premium German cycle manufacturer ADP Engineering GmbH, a company renowned for its exclusive, handcrafted Rotwild brand of cycles, who have already proved themselves reliable partners of Mercedes-Benz with other bike designs.

Exclusive design and fashionable colour scheme
The details of the design -developed in close collaboration between Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH, ADP Engineering GmbH and the Mercedes-BenzDesignCenterin Sindelfingen-take account of the physical differences between men and women. The “Comfort Edition” with its white paint finish incorporates subtle black and red elements, giving it an extra touch of elegance which will appeal to the fashion-conscious cyclist. Several components have been specially adapted for women, such as the narrower handlebars, a seat post which is 2 cm shorter and the Ergon handlebar grips with ergonomic handling surface. The “Comfort Edition” is available in frame heights S (45 cm) and M (48 cm).

The “Sport Edition” for men comes in S (47 cm), M (50 cm) and also in frame height L (53 cm), with the components modified accordingly. The monochrome colour scheme in anthracite accentuates the bike’s masculine appearance.

Individual tuning with oil-air suspension strut
The four-link rear suspension can cope with the toughest demands, providing superior motion on virtually any terrain. Crucial for perfect control is the position of the pivots, based on sophisticated calculations taking into account all relevant dynamic riding factors such as the influence of the drive system and braking.

The bike’s technical components are impressively adaptable. For example, the extremely sensitive response of the rear wheel’s high-tech Rock Shox Monarch 3.1 damper opens up completely new possibilities for cyclists wanting to tune their suspension to their individual requirements. Instead of the conventional steel suspension it uses an individually adjustable air chamber -similar to the principle of AIRMATIC in Mercedes-Benz’s S-Class. The different air pressures allow significantly more flexible adjustments. The damping is controlled by an adjustable oil cycle, and the rebound stage (upward deflection speed) and compression stage (downward deflection speed) can be set independently.

The suspension and damping of the front wheel is handled by the Rock Shox Recon 335 suspension fork with 120 mm travel. Its rebound and compression stagescan be individually adjusted by riders according to their personal preferences. If required, they can lock out the damping unit completely to enable them to use their strength more efficiently on steep climbs. The aluminium crown and magnesium lower legs guarantee a low overall weight.

Excellent brakes and high-quality components
No cyclist depends more on their brakes than a mountain bikeron a steep descent on loose surface covering. That’s why Mercedes-Benz uses fully hydraulic Avid Juicy Five disc brakes, which have received top reviews in the technical press, at the front and in the back for its new mountain bike. The 185 mm rotors with their outstanding response ensure optimum braking power even in critical situations.

With DT SWISS X430 rims and double-butted DT SWISS spokes, the mountain bike’s wheels provide a solid basis for efficient and comfortable use. The SRAMshift and drive components combine low weight with perfect shifting ease and high precision while being extremely robust. The excellent technical equipment of the bike is matched by the superior quality of its other components. Like the frame, the saddle post, handlebars and the stem are also by ADP. The innovative saddle from Allay includes special ergonomic features, such as an air cushion that is individually adjustable to the sensitive pressure points of men and women.

The price of the Mercedes-Benz mountain bike is €2,790 (incl. VAT, in Germany) and it is available from Mercedes-Benz dealers from May 2008. The bike is part of the Mercedes-Benz 2008 Bike Collection, which also includes the Fitness Bike, Trekking Bike and Racing Bike, as well as the Kids’ Bike and the Folding Bike*. All models are perfectly adapted to the requirements of their target groups in respect of their technical and functional features.

Comprehensive range of accessories and branded outfits
The exclusive Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH range enables customers to further tailor their bikes to their own requirements. The collection contains everything from an electronic bike computer with twelve functions, a practical pannier with a capacity of seven litres and an ultra-light mini-tool for repairs on the road to a handy mini pump, a useful hydration rucksack and a first-aid kit.

The accessories collection is complemented by a selection of clothing, with men’s and women’s jerseys and shorts, as well as cycling glasses and cycle helmets. This contemporary clothing combines high functionality and ergonomic design with the elegance characteristic of the MB brand. It goes without saying that an appropriate carrier system for each Mercedes-Benz vehicle model is also available.

* in the 3rd quarter of 2008

Mercedes-Benz 2008 mountain bike
Technical data

Frame
Material: Aluminium 7005;
Colour: Sport Edition: anthracite
Comfort Edition: white with red and black elements
Size: Sport Edition: S (47); M (50); L (53)
Comfort Edition: S (45); M (48)

Rear-wheel suspension
Suspension/damping: Rock Shox Monarch 3.1 oil-air suspension strut adjustable rebound and compression stage
Travel: 120 mm
Front-wheel suspension
Fork: Rock Shox Recon 335 with aluminium crown
Suspension/damping: Solo Air/adjustable rebound stage,
Compression stage adjustable up to lockout
Travel: 120 mm

Drive system
Crankset: Truvativ Firex 3.3
Crank length: Sport Edition: S: 170 mm; M/L: 175 mm
Comfort Edition: S/M: 170 mm
Pedals: Wellgo, SPD compatible
Chainrings: Truvativ Alu 44-32-22T SRAM
Inner bearing: Truvativ Firex 3.3 BSA

Shifter
Cassette: Shimano HG 50; 11-32T; 9speed
Shift lever: SRAM X.7 Trigger
Front derailleur: SRAM X.9
Rear derailleur: SRAM X.9 long cage, 9speed

Brakes
System: Avid Juicy 5; 185 mm rotors front/rear

Wheels
Hubs front: H 220D
Hubs rear: H 400D
Spokes: DT Comp 2.0/1.8
Rims: DT SWISS X430 Disc 26″
Tyres: ContinentalMountainKing Falt; 26 x 2.20″

Removable parts
Stem: S 140
Sport Edition: S 75 mm; M 90 mm; L 115 mm
Comfort Edition: S 60 mm; M 75 mm
Handlebars: B 240
Sport Edition: 640 mm
Comfort Edition: 600 mm
Grips: Sport Edition: VeloLight
Comfort Edition: Ergon GP1
Saddle: Topeak Allay Racing
Saddle post: P 260; 31.6 x 350 mm

Weight
without attachments: approx. 13.5 kg

[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

 

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written by Jeremy Korzeniewski

Apr 19
"The race at Barcelona should set a trend for how teams perform"

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written by BBC Sport | Motorsport | Formula One | UK Edition

Apr 19

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written by CarKey

Apr 19

New Audi Q5

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first offficial video

Author: worldcarfans
Keywords: Audi Q5
Added: April 19, 2008

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written by roadflytv \\ tags:

Apr 19

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Automotive research and analysis firm JATO does an annual assessment of vehicle carbon dioxide emissions in the European Market. For several years, Fiat and Peugeot/Citroen have been going back and forth as the leader. For 2007, JATO’s analysis based on sales put Fiat at the top of the heap among the ten biggest manufacturers that do business in Europe. Fiat’s 2007 fleet averaged CO2 emissions of only 137.3g/km while second place was a draw between Peugeot and Toyota at 141.9g/km. Peugeot and Fiat both sell far more small cars than anything else, many of them powered by diesel engines. Fiat in particular also promotes natural gas-fueled vehicles, having sold 50,000 of them in Italy in 2007. Toyota of course has their hybrids, but they also sell a lot of diesel-powered vehicles in the European market. The big three German manufacturers trailed the pack with their higher powered cars. Volkswagen (particularly through Audi), BMW and Mercedes only achieved 161.7 g/km, 176.7g/km and 188.4 g/km respectively.

[Source: Paddocktalk, thanks to Cedric for the tip]

 

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written by Sam Abuelsamid

Apr 19
Formula One driver Mark Webber says the Max Mosley scandal has brought the sport into disrepute.

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written by BBC Sport | Motorsport | Formula One | UK Edition

Apr 19

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written by Stargazer \\ tags:

Apr 19

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Have you been planning on flying into San Francisco and renting a car to get around? The folks down at city hall would prefer that your rental be a hybrid and they are willing to help you pay for it. The free money for making a more environmentally-friendly car rental choice will come in the form of a $15 rebate which ought to be enough for a latte and a croissant or three a couple of gallons of gas.

Mayor Gavin Newsom announced the proposed program just last Tuesday and with two million cars being rented every year at SFO, he’s pretty sure someone will take him up on the offer. Besides the rebate for customers, the plan also calls for rental companies who show that at least 15 percent of their rentals have been fuel efficient vehicles to get a 20 percent break on the fees they pay for their concession space at the airport. Don’t rush off this instant to take advantage of the saving though as the pilot program is only scheduled to begin in December.

[Source: SFGate]

 

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written by Domenick Yoney

Apr 19

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Click the image above for more high-res pics of the CTS-V

If you had your heart set on dropping big-time coin to own the first next-gen Cadillac CTS-V, you're already too late. CTS-V numero uno was auctioned off Thursday at a charity benefiting prostate cancer, and amazingly the 550 hp monogrammed sledgehammer was actually a bit of a bargain. Cigar entrepreneur Cano Ozgener dropped a reasonable $75,000 to become the winning bidder, which is likely a bit more than the CTS-V will cost at the dealership, but a heck of a lot less than other serial number ones that have sold over the past couple years. Hit the jump for more details on the auction in GM's press release.


[Source: GM]

Continue reading First Cadillac CTS-V auctioned off for charity

 

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written by Chris Shunk

Apr 19

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Click above for high-res gallery of the Buick Invicta Concept

Buick has dusted off the Invicta name, which hasn't been used by the brand since 1959, for its newest concept that debuted today at the Beijing Motor Show. The mid-size sedan previews the look of what U.S. customers will get with the next redesign of the LaCrosse sedan, and draws much of its design inspiration from Buick's most recent concepts like the Riviera and Velite. The Invicta features traditional Buick design cues like its waterfall grille and portholes, relocated on this car to the hood rather than the front fenders, but the rest of its styling is modern and fresh in a decidedly un-Buick way. The high beltline is a common element in many auto designs today, and is used well on the Invicta to give the concept a big presence for a mid-size car. We particular the shape of the lower air intake up front and the "sweepspear" character line along the side of the car. The sweepspear looks a bit like the sheetmetal kink on the Dodge Avenger, but so much better. The interior, meanwhile, appears surprisingly production ready with a wraparound dash and self-contained location for all controls above the sweeping center console.

Power for the concept comes from a turbocharged, direct-inject four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 220 pound-feet of torque, which is hooked up to a six-speed automatic transmission. Since it's a concept, however, the Invicta's powertrain is pretty immaterial. We're interested in its styling since it's likely what we'll see on the next-gen LaCrosse, which is scheduled to switch over to the Epsilon II platform that's shared with the Chevy Malibu when it debuts as a 2010 model. According to spy shots, things are coming along quite nicely.


[Source: Buick]

Continue reading Beijing 2008: Buick Invicta Concept debuts, say hello to next LaCrosse

 

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written by John Neff

Apr 19

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On the eve of the Beijing Motor Show ,General Motors Chairman Rick Wagoner and Design VP Ed Welburn along with their Chinese colleagues unveiled the Buick Invicta concept. Your regular Autoblog team didn't make the trek to China for this show, but our cohorts at Autoblog Chinese showed up for GM's Premier Night party to check out what will be the replacement for the current LaCrosse. The car was revealed sitting on a pool of water, perhaps implying that it is Buick's messiah, standing by to breathe new life into the brand Stateside. Buick is of course thriving in China, and some of the same team that created last year's Riviera concept participated in the styling of this new model. This design riding on the Epsilon II platform is expected to make the transition to production pretty much unscathed although the roofline might be slightly higher.


[Source: Autoblog Chinese]

All Photos Copyright (C) 2008 Weblogs, Inc.

 

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written by Sam Abuelsamid

Apr 19

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Click above for a high-res gallery of the Audi Q5


For months now we've seen spy photos and heard speculation about Audi's new Q5 CUV. Now, we finally have the official news on the latest entry from Ingolstadt. Unlike its big brother the Q7, the Q5 doesn't share an architecture with a VW model. The Q5 utilizes the same underpinnings as the A5 coupe and A4 sedan/wagon. That means the Q5 has a longitudinally mounted engine rather than the transverse powerplant found in the smaller VW Tiguan.

While we were in Germany to drive the new A4, Audi invited us into their design center in Ingolstadt to check out their new virtual reality design system and have a look at the Q5 in the metal, prior to its official coming out party in Beijing. Compared to the Q7, the Q5 looks substantially more compact than its hefty sibling and is much tidier design overall, keeping with Audi's current pretensions of being a premium sporting brand. In fact the Q5 falls right in the heart of the premium mid-size CUV segment. Learn more about the Q5 design after the jump


[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Beijing 2008: Officially Official - It's the 2009 Audi Q5

 

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written by Sam Abuelsamid

Apr 19
Meet the segment stylemeister

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written by All Motor Trend Stories RSS

Apr 19
Meet the segment stylemeister

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written by All Motor Trend Stories RSS

Apr 19