Apr 22
Volvo Aims for Zero Accidents
Apr 22
Filed under: Motorsports, Etc.
Click above for high-res gallery from this weekend's LBGP
American open-wheel racing just had a pretty big weekend, in case you missed it. While one era was beginning in Japan, another was ending at America's Monte Carlo. With reunification finally about to commence, the last Champ Car (nee CART) race ever was held at the street course in downtown Long Beach. While we've already told you the outcome, we also wanted to share some more photos. Although the race should be back on the schedule for '09, this weekend's race was truly the end of an era.
After 25 years of Champ Cars and their predecessors, next year's race will bring us a series that has a female driver who is an honest-to-goodness winner. And not only is she a winner (and a part-time swimsuit model), but she is pretty hardy too. After winning the race at Motegi, her and unfortunate runner-up Helio "Dancing with the Stars" Castroneves hopped on a plane and made it back to LAX and the LBGP by the time things wrapped up on Sunday afternoon.
While we didn't get any pics of Danica or Helio, we did manage to capture a few dozen shots of some of the drivers (mostly ALMS and Champ Car), and a few of the models too. Click below to check out some of the people that made this race weekend a memorable one.
All photos Copyright (C)2008 Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.
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Apr 22
BMW is recalling certain models of the 2008 BMW X5 Sport Utility vehicles for problems with the rear axle stabilizer (anti sway bar). These vehicles were equipped with a sports suspension...
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Apr 22
Filed under: AutoblogGreen Exclusive, Green Daily
If you weren’t glued to your computer today (and if there’s any day of the year when we should be outside enjoying the outdoors, this is the one, right?), I thought it would highlight a few of the special features we posted earlier today. We spent time putting together a couple of lists and crunched some numbers to come up with these posts. Hope you like ‘em.
- How far must you drive your hybrid before it pays off?
- How much energy would the U.S. save if ten percent of the population switched to hybrids?
- How hybrids work
- Top five upcoming green events
- Top ten most promising green technologies
- Top 20 most exciting green cars we wish we could buy today
Of course, we also saw some official statements in time for Earth day from Zap and Ford. Hope your day was a good one, and we’ll see you back here tomorrow.
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Apr 22
Filed under: Euro, Safety, Tech
Due to the continuing evolution of safety standards, high speed car-on-car impacts have made life better for everyone inside the cars. Now, even pedestrians get love from some car makers in the form of hoods that pop up when the car senses a pedestrian impact, so that the walker doesn't hit the engine block. Now, the Dutch Cycling Federation wants to know: what about us? The federation is asking for exterior airbags to protect cyclists in collisions with cars.In a country where getting around by bike is the done thing, the federation estimates that external airbags on cars could save 60 cyclists and eliminate 1,500 serious injuries every year. The airbags they have in mind would be mounted on the hoods, which is where cyclists usually end up.
In case you're thinking "There's no way...", the Swedish company Autoliv Inc. has created an air bag that deploys from the A-pillars and extends over the hood to keep people from crashing down onto the engine block. It strikes us as a bit nutty to think that one day our cars could turn into giant bubbles to protect everyone everywhere in an accident, but hey, if it saves lives....
[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]
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Apr 22
Filed under: AutoblogGreen Q & A, AutoblogGreen Exclusive
As we cover the automotive industry, we run across numerous events which lean, in one way or another, towards our green preferences. Some of these could be very influential on the industry while others are really more for fun. With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of our top five favorite upcoming green events for Earth Day. Take a look-see starting with number five (or skip ahead using the list below) and let us know how you feel.
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Apr 22
Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Crossovers/CUVs, Hatchbacks, Suzuki
Click above for a high-res gallery fo the Suzuki SX4t.
When Suzuki launched the SX4, we couldn't help thinking that the oddly shaped hatch had some aftermarket potential. Suzuki seemed to think the same thing and tapped Road Race Motorsports, the renowned SoCal tuning firm, to create a one-off concept for the Chicago Auto Show. Road Race decided that it could do better than just some wheels, brakes, a body kit and a few engine mods, so its created the SX4t, a turbocharged version of the all-wheel-drive hatch that could mark the beginning of Suzuki's ascendancy into the aftermarket.
Road Race fitted a Mitsubishi 16G GT3 turbocharger onto the 2.0-liter four-pot, which delivers seven pounds of boost and increases output to 221 hp and 208 lb.-ft. of torque, a substantial bump over the stock mill's 143 hp and 136 lb.-ft. of torque. According to Suzuki, that should drop 0-60 times to under seven seconds when equipped with the five-speed manual.
More impressive, however, is that Suzuki is giving Road Race its blessing and that could mean that the turbo upgrade, along with plenty of other go-fast bits, could be available from your local Suzuki dealership. The cost of the turbo kit, with all the necessary plumbing, will come in at relatively steep $5,400 when it goes on sale this June. Suzuki estimates that the installation would run between $1,100 and $1,200 at the dealership, but wouldn't say if fitting the kit would affect the seven-year/100,000 factory warranty on the powertrain. While dropping close to $10-grand on an SX4 for wheels, brakes and engine mods might be a tough pill to swallow, it will have to suffice for Suzuki enthusiasts hoping that the automaker would release a rally-inspired SX4.
Hit the jump for the full press release from Suzuki.
Continue reading Suzuki SX4t: "t" is for turbo, courtesy of Road Race Motorsports
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Apr 22
Filed under: Transportation Alternatives, Green Daily, USA
Not quite sure what to make of this, but on a day when America’s political eye is turned to Pennsylvania, Zipcar would like us all to know that the car-sharing company took a weeklong poll of Zipcar members in Philadelphia and found that Barack Obama was the runaway winner with 59 percent of the “vote.” Hillary Clinton came in second with 25 percent and John McCain trailed with 16 percent. Of course, the “votes” were not simple “who do you like best?” questions but instead were taken from registrations of three vehicles: Honda Hillary, Mini Cooper McCain or BMW Barack. The number of hours each of these vehicles was reserved during the week counted towards the final score. Scientific? No. Accurate? No. Fun? Sure, why not. More details after the break.
Press Release:
Zipcar Pres. Poll Results: Obama Rolling in Philly
PHILADELPHIA, April 18 /PRNewswire/ — Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama rolled to victory in the “Zipcar Presidential Poll,” which closed today at noon. Zipcar, the world’s largest car sharing company, conducted the weeklong poll of its members as a way to gauge its members’ interest in the three main presidential candidates.
The final tally of the poll is:
Barack Obama (D) 59%
Hillary Clinton (D) 25%
John McCain (R) 16%
The highly anticipated Pennsylvania primary is Tuesday, April 22.
Zipcar members “voted” in the poll by reserving the Zipcar vehicle of their choice — Honda Hillary, Mini Cooper McCain or BMW Barack. The results were obtained by tabulating the hours reserved for each vehicle over the course of the seven day poll.
Zipcar has 200,000 members in 50 cities across the U.S., Canada and London, with 5,000 cars in the fleet. Zipcar offers many benefits to its members including no per-mile fee and the industry’s best mobile reservation system. The company delivers cars-on-demand — so customers can reserve cars online or with their cell phones in seconds. In addition, due to recent rise in gas prices, Zipcar has lowered the price of the Toyota Prius and is offering 20 to Philadelphia residents at $6 per hour. This move makes Zipcar the best deal in car sharing citywide.
About Zipcar
Zipcar is the world’s leading car-sharing service with more than 200,000 members and 5,000 vehicles in urban areas and college campuses throughout 25 North American states and provinces as well as in London, England. As a leader in urban transportation, Zipcar offers more than 25 makes and models of self- service vehicles by the hour or day to savvy city residents and businesses looking for an alternative to the high costs and hassles of owning a car in the city. In November 2007, Zipcar announced a merger with Washington D.C. based Flexcar, immediately expanding operations to more than 50 cities, and enabling future growth into new markets across the United States, Canada, and Europe. For more information, visit www.Zipcar.com .
[Source: Zipcar]
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Apr 22
Filed under: Gadgets, Etc., Porsche
You are looking at the new Klipsch(R) Palladium P-39F floorstanding speakers -- designed by BMW Group DesignworksUSA. The speakers are a collaborative effort between Klipsch and BMW. Klipsch is a leading global manufacturer of high-performance loudspeakers, while BMW DesignworksUSA... well, they design things. In addition to spitting out automobiles like the 3 Series sedan and the Z4, they have applied their artistic wizardry to products including espresso machines, wind turbines, and commercial jets. This is one of their latest products, a pair of speakers sure to please the audiophiles among us.
The five-foot tall speakers, with flush-mounted cones and horns, are beautifully finished with a horizontal zebra-grain veneer. Each is mounted on a brushed aluminum base. According to the press release, "The new speaker design celebrates Klipsch's hallmark horn-loaded technology, which delivers high-efficiency sound with low distortion, controlled directivity, flat frequency response and wide dynamic range." (Translation: they look really cool, and sound really great.) Oh, the price for all of this audible prestige? They'll run you about $15,000/pair when they become available this summer.
Check out the full press release after the jump.
[Source: BMW]
Continue reading BMW gets into the premium home speaker business
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Apr 22
Filed under: Etc., Legislation and Policy, Green Daily, UK
A win is a win, right? We’re content to consider the fact that two-thirds of new car buyers in the U.K. are considering going green for their next car purchase a good thing, despite the fact that most of them are doing so to save money, not the environment. What Car? group editor Steve Fowler says that “with the cost of living increasing and with wages failing to keep up, car buyers are saying financial pressures are of more concern than helping the environment.” If this is the case, it seems that new graduated road taxes in the U.K. may have the desired effect of forcing consumers to purchase low-emitters. Follow past the break for the entire press release.
Press Release:
66% of car buyers will go green (but most will do it to save cash)
A What Car? survey reveals today that two-thirds of prospective new car purchasers will be looking to buy a greener vehicle in the next 12 months.
However, 47% of purchasers say they will be buying a greener car for financial reasons, while only 19% say environmental issues are the main factors for their next car.
Steve Fowler, What Car? group editor, said: “The Government will be pleased with this news coming so soon after Alistair Darling’s Budget. However, with the cost of living increasing and with wages failing to keep up, car buyers are saying financial pressures are of more concern than helping the environment.”
Last month, Chancellor Alistair Darling announced a raft of measures in his first Budget designed to encourage motorists to buy more environmentally friendly cars. These measures included new Vehicle Excise Duty (road tax) bands that will come into force in 2009, which will make buyers of more polluting cars pay more in road tax.
Plus, in 2010, the Government will introduce a so-called ‘Showroom Tax’ where buyers of the most polluting cars will pay a new, higher rate of tax in the first year ownership, while new cars with carbon dioxide emissions of less than 130g/km will not pay any road tax in the first year.
“Even if you aren’t planning to buy a new car soon, motorists can still do their bit for their environment by following the What Car? guide to ‘Greener Driving’,” said Fowler.
1. Driving at 60mph uses up to 9% less fuel than at 70mph and, on more advanced vehicles, motorists can take advantage of cruise control - a steady speed is also more fuel efficient.
2. Keep weight down - ensure your car is as free of clutter as possible, and remove roof and bicycle racks when not in use.
3. Plan your journey and use a satellite-navigation system or on-line routing site before you set off. Getting lost or stuck in traffic pumps additional CO2 into the atmosphere.
4. Travel outside of rush hour to avoid congestion.
5. Try not to use all of your car gadgets at once - they all use energy and contribute to your vehicle’s CO2 output.
6. Be a better driver and read the road ahead - hang back from the traffic in front so you don’t have to brake and accelerate every time it slows down and speeds up.
7. Turn engines off when stuck in traffic or when waiting for passengers to arrive.
8. Consider offsetting your emissions - look at websites such as www.climatecare.org that can help calculate your CO2 output.
9. Look at car sharing, set up a system at your place of work or start a car-sharing school-run.
What Car? will be announcing the winners of their first Green Awards at the British International Motor Show on the 22rd July 2008 at ExCeL London.
What Car? will also be showcasing the latest environmental cars and technology in the Greener Driving Pavilion, where consumers can get hands-on with some of the latest green innovations available now and see what’s coming in the future.
[Source: What Car?]
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Apr 22
Dealer: Monte Carlo Royal Motors (MC) ___________________________ Outside: Bentley Continental R Bentley Arnage Red Label Rolls Royce Silver Seraph Inside: Lancia B24 America Spider Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Lamborghini Diablo Rolls Royce Phantom Ferrari Enzo Lancia Stratos
Author: ExoticCarsHuntersITA
Keywords: ferrari rolls parking sound check up rev revving tubi style capristo cruisin monaco supercars crash
Added: April 22, 2008
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Apr 22
Filed under: Ford, GM, Earnings/Financials
General Motors has fallen once again on the Fortune 500 list of America's top-grossers. The General had once stood strong atop the rankings, having fallen from the top spot in 2001 at which time Wal-Mart took over. For the last few years, Exxon-Mobil and the big box retailer have battled for the first two positions on the list with GM claiming third place. This year, soaring demands for energy have allowed Chevron to nudge past GM on its way to a third place finish. General Motors, at number four on the list, is bracketed by another energy company, ConocoPhillips, at number five. Ford finds itself sitting at number seven, the same as last year.Fortune's 500 list is based on company revenue, not profit. If profit were the main criteria, GM and Ford wouldn't be making any appearances on the list at all. Exxon Mobil would easily claim the top spot as the most profitable company around with GM posting nearly as much in losses over the same period of time.
[Source: Fortune]
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Apr 22
Filed under: MPG, Legislation and Policy, Green Daily, USA
Remember how the automakers fought against the 35 mpg by 2020 CAFE increase late last year? They are also fighting against possible state-by-state emissions and fuel economy regulations issues that are going through the courts. Following the news today of the NHTSA’s call for cars to reach a 35.7 mpg average (and light trucks reach a 28.6 mpg average) by 2015, the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers seems to be OK with it. The Auto Alliance issued a statement today (pasted after the jump) wherein Dave McCurdy, the Alliance’s president and CEO says “This proposal represents an important mile marker on the road to at least 35 miles per gallon by 2020.” The Alliance - which speaks for BMW Group, Chrysler LLLC, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Mazda, Mercedes Benz Usa, Mitsubishi Motors, Porsche, Toyota And Volkswagen - said the automakers “believe this tough, nationwide, proposed fuel economy increase will be good for both consumers and energy security. While these increases will present a challenge, it is critical that automakers and consumers have the certainty that this nationwide, 50-state fuel economy rule provides.” Looks like the potential patchwork policies were more of a stick in the jaw than higher MPG rules.
Press Release:
Automakers Respond to New Nationwide Fuel Economy Proposal
“Congress has set an aggressive, single, nationwide standard and automakers are prepared to meet that challenge. This proposal represents an important mile marker on the road to at least 35 miles per gallon by 2020.” –Dave McCurdy, President and CEO, Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers
· In supporting the Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA) the Alliance and its member companies acknowledge that we have a responsibility to increase fuel economy and limit greenhouse gas emissions from new automobiles.
· This proposed rule would require the industry to achieve fleetwide fuel economy standards of 35.7 mpg for cars and 28.6 mpg for trucks, vans and SUVs by 2015.
· When fully implemented EISA will result in a minimum 40 percent increase in fuel economy standards and a 30 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions through 2020.
· Achieving significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions from automotive sector will require a comprehensive approach involving the vehicles, fuels, and drivers.
· Automakers believe this tough, nationwide, proposed fuel economy increase will be good for both consumers and energy security. While these increases will present a challenge, it is critical that automakers and consumers have the certainty that this nationwide, 50-state fuel economy rule provides.
· Automakers are committed to enhancing energy security and reducing carbon dioxide emissions through the use of alternative fuel autos. Our goal as manufacturers is to offer fuel-efficient vehicle options, with a wide range of attributes, at an affordable price. Last year, more than 1.8 million hybrid-electric, ethanol capable flexible fuel vehicles and clean diesel vehicles were sold in the U.S. That was a 15 percent increase over 2006. This year, more than 70 models of alternative fuel autos are available on dealer lots throughout the country.
[Source: Auto Alliance]
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Apr 22
Filed under: Emerging Technologies
click to enlarge
We’ve been waiting for the KTM X-Bow to make its racing debut for a long while. We found out in March that the lightweight racer’s first competition would be the 2008 FIA GT4 European Cup, which has now taken place. Two X-Bow cars raced in the newly-created “Sport Lights” class over the weekend. The cars were driven by German racing specialists from Reiter Engineering. We didn’t want to spoil the results of the racers debut in case you’re sitting on a recorded version of the race, so find out how the X-Bows did by clicking past the break.
The short answer is the cars won their class. As KTM announced in a release, the two X-Bows finished “ahead of immensely more powerful opposition” which marks “an emphatic confirmation of the concept behind KTM’s sportscar.” The X-Bows needed to have extra weight on board and were riding on treaded tires to balance out the competition, GT4 race officials decided. Still, the cars won two class victories and had “excellent overall placings.” Those placings were seventh and eleventh overall in the first race, and fifth and sixth in the second race. The X-Bow’s ran against cars outside its class, such as the Aston Martin N24, Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Corvette. The next race for the X-Bow takes place in mid-May.
Want your own chance behind the wheel? The production version X-Bows start production this summer.
[Source: KTM]
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Apr 22
Filed under: Motorsports, Acura, Aston Martin, Audi, Chevrolet, Ford, Mazda, Porsche, Ferrari
Click above for high-res gallery of ALMS action from Long Beach
With Champ Car going the way of the dodo bird after this year's Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, it looks like the American Le Mans Series is poised to take over top billing at America's Monte Carlo. The street course around downtown Long Beach, California is quite a track, with a long tradition of motorsport excitement. Everything from Formula 1 to CART to Trans-Am have run here, but very few series can match the thrill of four different classes running into the dusk like the ALMS presents. This year's sophomore running of the Tequila Patrón American Le Mans Series at Long Beach showed exactly why the series deserves more support and coverage than it gets. Not only was the on-track action enthralling, but the huge crowds that Long Beach always attracts seemed to go ga-ga over the prototypes and GT cars wearing names like Porsche, Aston Martin, Corvette and Ferrari. In case you haven't seen the race yet, the results are after the jump. Don't let that stop you from clicking through the massive high-res gallery however.
All photos Copyright (C)2008 Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.
Continue reading ALMS at Long Beach
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Apr 22
Apr 22
The new Green Party mayor of Tübingen Germany is fully in support of the city’s “10% less CO2 by 2010″ policy and he’s got a new ride to demonstrate it. Boris Palmer has selected the Smart ForTwo MHD as his official ride when on city business. The MHD version of the Smart features micro-hybrid drive, which essentially an automatic start-stop system. The Smart MHD is the most fuel-efficient gasoline-powered Smart averaging 54.7mpg (U.S.) on the New European Driving Cycle. That’s an improvement from the 50mpg achieved by the conventional gas unit. Carbon dioxide emissions of the Smart MHD are only 103g/km. The micro-hybrid turns off the engine whenever the car comes to a stop and automatically re-starts whenever the brake pedal is released. Although the U.S. market won’t be getting the diesel-powered Smart anytime soon, we probably will get the micro-hybrid in a year or so.
[Source: Daimler]
On time for the start of his new climate protection campaign entitled “Tübingen goes green. 10% less CO2 by 2010″ Boris Palmer, the mayor of Tübingen has taken delivery of his new business car - a smart fortwo micro hybrid drive (mhd). The administrative head of the university town opted for a smart - a brand now sold successfully in 37 countries - first and foremost for environmental reasons. With its innovative start/stop function the smart fortwo mhd is particularly economical and consumes just 4.3 litres of fuel over 100 kilometres (CO2 emissions: 103 g/km). It therefore meets the high ecological demands of the committed Green Party politician in the executive seat of the historic town on the river Neckar.
Ecological projects are very important to the 35-year old mayor and this is why he always drives cars that are particularly climate-friendly. Last year at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt he ordered a smart fortwo mhd as his personal business vehicle. To mark the start of a new campaign with which Boris Palmer aims to reduce CO2 emissions in Tübingen by ten percent by 2010, he took delivery of the most economical petrol variant of the compact smart fortwo.
Boris Palmer says “The smart fortwo is the ideal car for towns and cities and the start/stop function now makes it even more environmentally friendly - because why should I pollute the environment when I’m stationary at traffic lights? I look forward to driving my new car.” The smart fortwo micro hybrid drive rated at 52 kW/71 bhp features a clever start/stop system that uses the engine’s idling phases. In conjunction with slightly modified gear ratios, this leads to a fuel saving of approximately 8 percent in the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). The standard consumption is reduced by 0.4 litres - from 4.7 litres to 4.3 litres per 100 kilometres. There is also a corresponding reduction in CO2 emissions from 112 grams to 103 grams per kilometre. Depending on the traffic situation, e.g. heavy slow urban traffic, a fuel saving of up to 19 percent can even be achieved.
Anders Jensen, responsible for smart brand management says “The smart fortwo mhd is a clever and affordable fuel-saving solution for customers which we were able to realise in a short space of time.” This is the fundamental idea of the smart brand. smart was created because we asked what the car of the future should be like - how much space it should take up in our towns and cities, how fast it should drive, what impact it should have on the environment. With its well-directed use of resources and the conscious use of energy the mhd embodies this guiding principle.”
To achieve this, the new smart fortwo micro hybrid drive automatically shuts down the engine whenever it would normally be combusting fuel in idle position. At traffic lights, level crossings or in stop-and-go traffic - as soon as the driver releases the brake pedal the engine starts automatically and the journey can continue immediately. The driver doesn’t need to do anything out of the ordinary. In conjunction with the automated manual transmission that comes as standard, the new start/stop technology guarantees comfortable and straightforward driving with reduced fuel consumption.
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Apr 22
Filed under: Sports/GTs, Plants/Manufacturing, Aston Martin
Click above for a high-res gallery of the Aston Martin DBS.
According to Autocar, the lucky few that have put a deposit down on the new Aston Martin DBS will have to wait an additional three-months to get behind the wheel of the body-kitted Bond car. The problem apparently stems from suppliers who aren't able to deliver Aston with the one-off parts necessary to complete the DBS. As such, coupes are sitting unfinished at Aston's plant, but sources within the automaker say that they're willing to hold off on deliveries to ensure that all the parts are top-notch. Unfortunately, we doubt that some of the bespoke bits can be salvaged from one of the vehicles that's already been delivered.
[Source: Autocar via Winding Road]
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Apr 22
Chrysler 300 Touring DUB Edition
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Apr 22
Ferrari 612 Scaglietti, Auto China 2008
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Today Ferrari is present at the 2008 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition with its line-up, providing a visual feast of passion for all audiences. Taking pride of place at the Ferrari stand is the 612 Scaglietti.
The model is used to inaugurate the new One-to-One Personalisation Programme, which is making its debut in Asia at the 10th Beijing International Automotive Exhibition.
Other models on display include 430 Scuderia, an evidence of the brand’s tradition and ability to translate F1 technology into its production vehicles; 599 GTB Fiorano, the most high performance mid-front engined two-seater Ferrari ever produced; and F430 Spider, the classic convertible model which boasts Ferrari’s cutting- edge technology.
FERRARI ONE-TO-ONE PERSONALISATION PROGRAMME
The 612 Scaglietti is the model being used to inaugurate the new One-to-One Personalisation Programme. Ferrari intends to allow every client to fully personalise this flagship model, courtesy of a wide array of new content as well as the options available through the existing Carrozzeria Scaglietti Programme.
In fact, a special dedicated “atelier” area has been set up at the factory in which clients can put together their very own 612 Scaglietti accessory by accessory, detail by detail. In exactly the same way as they would at a haute couture fashion house.
Owners can choose details, materials, flourishes, finishes and accessories that suit their own needs. Ferrari dedicated Programme consultants in Maranello will assist the clients to make their selections and work directly with them at every stage of defining their car’s specifications. This programme will allow owners to have a truly bespoke car.
Naturally, despite the many variations on offer, the Ferrari flagship’s benchmark quality and styling characteristics will remain unchanged. No modifications will be permitted that would impinge on the signature Prancing Horse safety and reliability.
All of these unique new 612 Scagliettis will be built in a dedicated assembly area at the Maranello factory.
A compact version of the real atelier on the stand will allow audiences to have first-hand experience of Ferrari’s unique One-to-One Personalisation Programme.
612 SCAGLIETTI
The new 612 Scaglietti incorporates a series of technical evolutions that reflect the Ferrari philosophy of constantly introducing innovations in each model. Most notably, the V12 flagship now boasts an electrochromic panoramic roof which covers the entire top of the cabin.
This has the dual advantage of giving occupants the feeling of driving along in a drop-top whilst enjoying the comfort and safety of a coupé. However, this is no ordinary panoramic roof. It is made from electrochromic glass which can be changed at the touch of a button to adjust the levels of sunlight allowed into the cabin.
The electrochromic glass solution was developed in close collaboration with Saint Gobain, a partner with whom Ferrari has most recently developed a similar highly innovative solution for the Superamerica.
In addition to its electrochromic roof, the 612 Scaglietti also sports the aptly named SuperFast gearbox which delivers an exceptional gear-shifting time of 100 milliseconds and a reduced inertia clutch to enhance the engine’s responsiveness still further.
The iconic Ferrari manettino, now featured on the entire range, has also been added to the steering wheel. The 612 Scaglietti is a sumptuous, roomy two-door four-seater that’s a pleasure to be aboard regardless of the driving conditions.
The model is used to inaugurate the new One-to-One Personalisation Programme, which is making its debut in Asia at the 10th Beijing International Automotive Exhibition.
Other models on display include 430 Scuderia, an evidence of the brand’s tradition and ability to translate F1 technology into its production vehicles; 599 GTB Fiorano, the most high performance mid-front engined two-seater Ferrari ever produced; and F430 Spider, the classic convertible model which boasts Ferrari’s cutting- edge technology.
FERRARI ONE-TO-ONE PERSONALISATION PROGRAMME
The 612 Scaglietti is the model being used to inaugurate the new One-to-One Personalisation Programme. Ferrari intends to allow every client to fully personalise this flagship model, courtesy of a wide array of new content as well as the options available through the existing Carrozzeria Scaglietti Programme.
In fact, a special dedicated “atelier” area has been set up at the factory in which clients can put together their very own 612 Scaglietti accessory by accessory, detail by detail. In exactly the same way as they would at a haute couture fashion house.
Owners can choose details, materials, flourishes, finishes and accessories that suit their own needs. Ferrari dedicated Programme consultants in Maranello will assist the clients to make their selections and work directly with them at every stage of defining their car’s specifications. This programme will allow owners to have a truly bespoke car.
Naturally, despite the many variations on offer, the Ferrari flagship’s benchmark quality and styling characteristics will remain unchanged. No modifications will be permitted that would impinge on the signature Prancing Horse safety and reliability.
All of these unique new 612 Scagliettis will be built in a dedicated assembly area at the Maranello factory.
A compact version of the real atelier on the stand will allow audiences to have first-hand experience of Ferrari’s unique One-to-One Personalisation Programme.
612 SCAGLIETTI
The new 612 Scaglietti incorporates a series of technical evolutions that reflect the Ferrari philosophy of constantly introducing innovations in each model. Most notably, the V12 flagship now boasts an electrochromic panoramic roof which covers the entire top of the cabin.
This has the dual advantage of giving occupants the feeling of driving along in a drop-top whilst enjoying the comfort and safety of a coupé. However, this is no ordinary panoramic roof. It is made from electrochromic glass which can be changed at the touch of a button to adjust the levels of sunlight allowed into the cabin.
The electrochromic glass solution was developed in close collaboration with Saint Gobain, a partner with whom Ferrari has most recently developed a similar highly innovative solution for the Superamerica.
In addition to its electrochromic roof, the 612 Scaglietti also sports the aptly named SuperFast gearbox which delivers an exceptional gear-shifting time of 100 milliseconds and a reduced inertia clutch to enhance the engine’s responsiveness still further.
The iconic Ferrari manettino, now featured on the entire range, has also been added to the steering wheel. The 612 Scaglietti is a sumptuous, roomy two-door four-seater that’s a pleasure to be aboard regardless of the driving conditions.
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Apr 22
Filed under: Hirings/Firings, BMW, Rolls-Royce
Tom Purves, Chairman of BMW North America, is getting a new desk -- one that is adorned with a silver Flying Lady. As of July 1, Purves will take over as the CEO of BMW's Rolls-Royce brand in Goodwood, England. Replacing Tom Purves as the CEO of BMW's North American Unit will be Jim O'Donnell, who has occupied the No. 2 seat since the beginning of this month.
Purves is no stranger to Rolls-Royce. He spent the first 17 years of his career there occupying several different management positions. The timing for his departure from BMW is interesting, though. BMW has a mandatory retirement age of 60. Coincidentally, that just happens to be the age Purves will celebrate on his birthday this November. Rolls-Royce, one of the most prestigious automakers in the world, doesn't have a mandatory retirement age.
[Source: Automotive News, subs. req'd]
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Apr 22
Filed under: Hybrid, Mazda, USA
Mazda introduced the Tribute hybrid at the 2007 Detroit Auto Show and initially sold it in small quantities in California. The first customers must have been happy and it seems that the hybrid SUV has now proven what it’s capable of. The Tribute hybrid is now available throughout the United States.
The Tribute is a full time hybrid which can run in EV mode up to 25 mph and has an I4 2.3 liter engine good for 133 HP, complemented by a 93HP electric engine mated to Nickel-Cadmium batteries. The car meets California’s strict Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle requirements by achieving Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle II standards. Mileage is 34/30 mpg (hwy/city).
Gallery: Mazda Tribute Hybrid SUV
[Source: SF Chronicle via Leblogauto]
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Apr 22
The concept’s front fascia features an evolved version of Red Flag’s signature grille with the addition of large vents and the car will be powered by FAW’s advanced V12 engine, which will also equip the HQE limousine. FAW is very proud of this engine, which features an advanced combustion system, full aluminum light weight design, optimized fuel economic efficiency and lower emissions. This engine will also lay the foundations for a V6 and a V8 engine to follow.
Check out more photos of the HongQi/Red Flag SUV Concept after the jump.
Photo Gallery: HongQi/Red Flag SUV Concept
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Apr 22
Filed under: Emerging Technologies, AutoblogGreen Exclusive
Each day we cover the green sector of the automotive industry, and we see news coming from every direction touting some sort of new technology that is intended to reduce the effect our transportation has on the environment. Some of these technologies are easy to disregard as mere pipe-dreams, while others take a little more time to digest. For that reason, we’ve decided to take the opportunity on Earth Day to highlight some of the most promising green technologies that are either currently hitting the market or are just over the horizon. Follow along as we cover what we consider to be the top ten most promising green technologies. The ride starts here.
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Apr 22
Filed under: Spy Photos, Supercars, Lexus
Click above for a high-res gallery of the race-prepped Lexus LF-A
With the recent spate of spy shots and the announcement that Lexus would be would be campaigning the LF-A at the 24 Hours of Nurburgring race, it was just a matter of time before we were afforded the opportunity to see the Lexus supercar in action. The short video after the jump gives us a couple fly-bys of the LF-A blowing down a straight expanse of tarmac and ends with the camo'd mule pulling into the pits with a few squeaks from the race-ready brakes. The sound of the 500-hp, 5.0-liter V10 shouldn't be missed, so hit the jump for the video.
[Source: The Passionate Pursuit]
Continue reading Spy VIDEO: Lexus LF-A sounds as mean as it looks
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Apr 22
To combin the features between great driving experience of European vehicles and the polish design technology of Japanese vehicles, Nissan update its premium sedan Teana to fit for growing China automarket.
At this year's 2008 Beijign International Auto Show, Nissan revealed its all-new Nissan Teana premium sedan.
"When we introduced Teana in 2004, it sent a clear signal that Nissan was serious about growth in China," said Carlos Ghosn, President and CEO, Nissan Motor Company Ltd.
"The all-new Teana again demonstrates our commitment to high quality and world-class products for the Chinese consumer," continued Ghosn.
Teana was designed under the concept of modern luxury and relaxation.
Defined by a bodyline that is a graceful and sweeping arc, the new Teana embodies sophistication.
Known as a pioneer of the "modern living" concept through its first generation, the Teana evolves the interior design to focus on relaxation for all passengers.
Teana is available with the combination of the highly regarded V6 engine (VQ25DE and VQ35DE versions) and XTRONIC CVT. This combination provides both high performance yet refined long distance cruising.
For China, a four-cylinder in-line engine (MR20DE) is also available, designed to maximize fuel economy and performance.
At this year's 2008 Beijign International Auto Show, Nissan revealed its all-new Nissan Teana premium sedan.
"When we introduced Teana in 2004, it sent a clear signal that Nissan was serious about growth in China," said Carlos Ghosn, President and CEO, Nissan Motor Company Ltd.
"The all-new Teana again demonstrates our commitment to high quality and world-class products for the Chinese consumer," continued Ghosn.
Teana was designed under the concept of modern luxury and relaxation.
Defined by a bodyline that is a graceful and sweeping arc, the new Teana embodies sophistication.
Known as a pioneer of the "modern living" concept through its first generation, the Teana evolves the interior design to focus on relaxation for all passengers.
Teana is available with the combination of the highly regarded V6 engine (VQ25DE and VQ35DE versions) and XTRONIC CVT. This combination provides both high performance yet refined long distance cruising.
For China, a four-cylinder in-line engine (MR20DE) is also available, designed to maximize fuel economy and performance.
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Apr 22