Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Yes Roadster 3.2, 2006

Yes Roadster 3.2, 2006





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Yes Roadster 3.2, 2006

A powerful 3.2-liter-V6-engine with 255 hp produces an uncompromising driving machine, one that is powerful , vibrant in its performance and super-charged with pasion. The result is an heir honouring its legacy yet adopting trendsetting shapes and technology. - simply a revolutionary evolution!

For the YES Roadster 3.2 Turbo the concept was taken one step further: an especially developed rear wing spoiler asures the necessary down force, to bring 355 HP safely onto the stret.

Interior
The interior is the human-machine interface. This is where the driver takes the command, feels the direct contact to the street, navigates and controls the instruments.

The high-strength aluminium-space-frame takes care of the passive safety. Driver and passenger are protected by optional air bags if necessary. High-quality materials combined with chrome and leather applications turn the interior into a sporty unity. Optional equipment and accessories, for example the modern multimedia navigation system and the three-way sound system, offer wide space for individualisati on.

Engine
With variable camshaft settings the renowned V6 four valve engine equipped with 3,189 cm3 of engine displacement — in the naturally aspirated as well as in the turbo version — combined with a max. torque already at 2,001 1/min has virtually an easy job with the 890 and 930 kg respectively of the YES! Roadster 3.2 and 3.2 Turbo. In doing so, the fuel consumpti on is only at 8,2 and 9,3 litre respectively on 100 km in the so called combined fuel consumption.

Wiesmann GT MF5, 2008

Wiesmann GT MF5, 2008





Pure energy and dynamism - that's the new Wiesmann GT MF5. This sports car for the purist, with its classic design and state-of-the-art technology, sets a new all-time high standard for the already impressive performance of Wiesmann sports cars. Equipped with a high-revving BMW V10 delivering 507 hp, it completes the sprint from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds. With a sensational power-to-rate ratio of 2.7 kg/hp and a top speed of 310 km/h, this Coupé plays for top honours in the premier league for sports cars. Exclusive driving enjoyment is guaranteed with the Wiesmann GT MF5!

The car's powerful exterior styling already hints at the outstanding driving dynamics that await the driver of a Wiesmann GT MF5: the extremely low, crouching body combined with the wide tyres promise power in abundance. The wing and the diffuser provide plenty of downforce on the rear suspension, guaranteeing excellent stability even at high speeds. A high-performance suspension system has been developed with a great deal of effort at the manufacturing plant in Dülmen, offering exclusive driving enjoyment to the driver of an MF5, but also the necessary degree of safety. Energy-absorbing body zones also contribute to the safety of the Wiesmann GT MF5, along with the rigid aluminium monocoque with integrated side-impact protection, as well as ABS as standard in conjunction with DSC dynamic stability control. The low overall weight combined with aerodynamic perfection also delivers an extremely low emissions figure in this performance category.

Monday, October 18, 2010

Volkswagen Scirocco Studie R Concept, 2008

Volkswagen Scirocco Studie R Concept, 2008






It was a triumphant drive: in May 2008, three VW Scirocco GT24 cars lined up at the start of the 24-hour endurance race on the Nürburgring track. At the wheel: driving legends the likes of Hans-Joachim Stuck and Carlos Sainz. The teams drove two 238 kW / 325 PS strong race cars to a dual victory at the finish line, first and second in their class. Now Volkswagen is presenting a street version of the race car at the 2008 Bologna Motor Show: the Volkswagen Scirocco Studie R Concept. A genuine Grand Tourismo with a 198 kW / 270 PS engine that delivers aggressive propulsive power. This power is distributed by a 6-speed dual clutch transmission. Adapted directly from car racing are the coilovers, the four-piston brake calipers and a sound-optimized exhaust system with its oval, polished tailpipes.

In many respects the concept emulates the race car version. Take the front end, for example: here the design adheres to the motto "Form follows function"; it features three large air inlet openings that guarantee optimal cooling of the brakes and engine. The front splitter that was added minimizes aerodynamic lift of the front axle. Also adopted from the racing version is the engine hood with its auxiliary air vents.
The rear end is dominated by an integrated rear wing and distinctive diffuser in the lower section of the bumper. These two components reduce lift at the rear axle substantially. Despite the aerodynamic design derived from car racing, a clear stylistic resemblance to the production Scirocco was preserved. Identifying characteristics of its side profile are the new side skirts and polished 19-inch alloy wheels with five sets of triple spokes. The wheels were specially developed for the Volkswagen Scirocco Studie R.

The radiator screen, diffuser and underside of the rear spoiler are treated in high-gloss black, and this provides a strong contrast to the white exterior paint. Supplemented by a "Bologna 08" badge, red and green stylistic elements on a white background create an Italian tricolor. The outside mirrors are also coordinated with this color scheme.

Volvo S40, 2008

Volvo S40, 2008






When the current generation of the Volvo S40 and V50 were introduced in 2003, Volvo Cars had its sights firmly set on younger buyers with high demands on sportiness and premium feel.

The new Volvo S40 and new Volvo V50 are making a joint entry onto the market with considerably refined design. A range of new features further sharpens their competitive edge in the hunt for discerning young car buyers.

Fresh figures from both the US and Europe show that the company's focus on younger target groups has made a significant contribution to sales.

It's the figures for the USA that are most noteworthy:

* The proportion of S40 buyers under 35 years of age has increased from 23 percent to 45 percent.
* The proportion of singles has risen by 10 percent, from 30 to 40 percent.
* The overall average age of S40 customers has dropped by ten years from 50 to 40.

In Europe, the proportion of V50 buyers whose main alternative was a premium car such as the large German makes is now touching 47 percent - compared with 24 percent for the previous Volvo V40.

The proportion of customers younger than 44 years has risen by ten percent from 45 to 55 percent. And in Europe too, it is the more emotional reasons for purchase that are gaining ground among V50 buyers, more of whom are families with children than in the case of the S40.

Improved storage
Both design and technical refinements in the new Volvo S40 and V50 focused on improving the models' already highly appreciated characteristics and on tackling weaknesses identified by customers, for instance when it comes to interior storage space.

Spyker C8 Laviolette LM85, 2009

Spyker C8 Laviolette LM85, 2009






Spyker introduces the Spyker C8 Laviolette LM85 of which a maximum of 24 production slots are being offered. The LM85 has been designed in the spirit of the Spyker Squadron GT2 (LMES) race cars and sports a GT2 inspired livery. The Spyker C8 Laviolette LM85 is named after the starting number of the GT2 cars Spyker has had at Le Mans since 2002.

The Spyker C8 Laviolette LM85 specification list is exhaustive with exclusive elements incorporated. All 24 LM85 owners are special guest during the 24 Hours of Le Mans in June 2009. Furthermore, a special Chronoswiss 24 Hours Pilot Watch is part of the offer.

The Spyker C8 Laviolette LM85 is an advanced mid-engine, two-seat sports car. It is characterized by a lightweight all aluminium body construction and an uncompromising engineering package. The powertrain of the Spyker C8 Laviolette LM85 is the all aluminium Audi 4.2 Litre V8 engine producing 400 bhp. This is paired to a manual six-speed Getrag gearbox, driving the rear wheels with a Drexler limited slip differential. The use of aluminium parts and other lightweight materials results in an impressive power-to-weight ratio and underlines the GT2 racing heritage of the LM85.

Based on the Spyker C8 Laviolette GT2R, the racing characterisitics of the LM85 are numerous, such as the structural aluminium chassis, GT2 livery (Burnt Almond Orange with Gun Metal 'S' logo), side mirrors in gun metal, a carbon fibre rear spoiler, and GT2 windscreen streamer. Behind the black powder coated alloy wheels, black AP Racing 6 piston brake calipers with AP Racing logo appear.
The ample use of black leather and alcantara, which is originally meant to reduce light reflection during racing, has been finished with orange contrast stitching and characterizes the unique interior of the Spyker C8 Laviolette LM85.

On request, Chronoswiss dials and switches can be installed and are virtually identical to the Chronoswiss 24 Hours Pilot Watch every LM85 owner receives with his car. The black floor mats are made of fire protective material, finished with orange piping and the LM85 logo embroidered.

Spyker C12 Zagato, 2008

Spyker C12 Zagato, 2008






The Spyker C12 Zagato is an all aluminium rear wheel drive sports car, based on the Spyker C12 Spyder. The C12 is powered by the 6.0 liter, 12 cylinder, 500 bph W12 engine from Volkswagen AG and accelerates from 0-100 km (0-60 mph) in 3.8 seconds. The Spyker C12 Zagato is equipped with a six-speed manual or automatic gear box with F1 style shifting, Chronoswiss instruments and a Zagato designed full leather interior with brushed aluminium instrument panel. The C12 Zagato has an aluminium body with stainless steel roof rails and has many F1 derived design details such as an F1 nose, air scoop, chimneys, mirrors, rain light, fuel flap and diffuser. It has a panoramic roof that features the Double Bubble, a typical Zagato style element. The Spyker C12 Zagato has a length of 4.5 m, a width of 2.02 m excluding mirrors, a height of 1.25 m and weighs 1480 kg. The fuel tank capacity is 70 litres (15.4 gallons). Top speed is 310 km/h (193 mph).

"All Spyker cars have their own very unique style: the aeronautical retrospective style co-exists with craftsmanship and elegance. The new Zagato body becomes even more unique, aggressive and sensual at the same time. It features a new double bubble panoramic roof , F1 influenced nose and air intakes, chimney and a "coda tronca", the typical Zagato cut off tail end.

Maintaining Spyker's styling philosophy, Zagato design put all these elements together and created an extremely stimulating example of contemporary exotic high performance sports car by using typical modern Zagato lines which started from the Raptor Zagato in 1996."

Smart fortwo EV Concept, 2009

Smart fortwo EV Concept, 2009




The Smart is producer of one of the worldwide most economical and environmentally friendly cars: the smart fortwo. The brand takes advantages by using alternative technologies to develop even more ecologically friendly vehicles. The smart fortwo electric drive demonstrates the pioneering role of the young car brand. As an electric car it is locally emission-free, highly efficient and quite. It represents sustainability at its highest level. At the End of 2009, smart will start the production of the smart fortwo electric drive with a lithium-ion battery. The company is exploring opportunities for the United States market.

Lithium-ion battery technology
The smart fortwo electric drive series will be equipped with a state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery. Lithium-ion technology has decisive advantages over other type of batteries, including its compact dimensions, high performance, shorter charging times an higher reliability.

London pilot project
In 2007, smart started a pilot project in London, England to test the smart fortwo electric drive vehicle. smart leased 100 electric smarts of the former series to gain real world experience and determine the technology's long-term sustainability. The project has proven to be very successful with customers giving very encouraging feedback. In addition, the English authorities have rewarded smart's commitment by exempting drivers of electric smart vehicle from the expensive London congestion charge.

London was selected as the perfect test city due to its high populations and infrastructure density, which has resulted in high traffic, parking shortages, severe noise and pollution. Participation in the project was first offered to companies that operate their own vehicle fleets and those who drive in inner city areas.

The majority of the customers approached smart to participate in the London project. Participants lease the electric smart for four years or 40,000 miles, and the project will officially run until 2012.

The company is using the test data and monitoring and evaluating many other different technologies to evolve the smart brand with new products as appropriate.

"e-mobility Berlin"
In addition to the London test program, smart is consistently working on the future development of electric drive technology. With the support of the German government and the state of Berlin, Daimler AG and the energy provider RWE introduced the "e-mobility Berlin" project. The two companies are jointly creating the conditions for zero emissions with battery electric drives, which is the world's largest initiative in this field to date.

RWE is providing 500 electricity charging stations and Daimler is contribution 100 electric vehicles. Both companies aim to create an intelligent system, and the first joint tests are scheduled for the spring of 2009.
Additionally, an "on-board unit" is being developed that will communicate with charging stations to ensure that the battery is automatically charged with low-priced electricity when the network is not used to full capacity, for example at off-peak times.

Skoda Superb, 2009

Skoda Superb, 2009






The appearance of the new Škoda Superb is striking in its form. The implementation of the Škoda Auto design philosophy is mirrored in the strong three-dimensional form of the front grille, while its finely modelled chrome trimmings afford it a substantial and solid look. The contoured lines of the bonnet extend to the headlamps, intensifying the horizontal direction of these lines, giving the new Superb its appearance of sitting solidly and self-assuredly on the road. The markedly emphasised front wings underline this feature. They give the new Škoda Superb its characteristic image which, in turn, characterises it clearly as a member of the Škoda family.

The lines of the roof are an eye-catching feature. While its predecessor had a rounded, domed roof, that of the new Škoda Superb is elongated and blends elegantly into the radius of the C-pillars. This in itself is a clear indication of the exceptional interior spaciousness and, especially, the unexcelled room offered to the rear seat passengers. Chrome trim around the windows of the Ambition and Elegance models flows into a three-dimensional element at the C-pillar, giving the car a look that is normally only to be found in a higher class.

The interior

In spite of being almost identical in overall length to the previous generation Škoda Superb, the new Superb exceeds the already generous interior measurements of its predecessor in almost all aspects thanks to the transverse engine design. This begins in the front, where space has been gained by moving the gear position. The central tunnel has been designed in a much leaner form. And, in the rear, the knee space has been increased by 19 millimetres, affording the passengers unique travelling comfort. The new Škoda is 4,838 millimetres in length, 1,817 millimetres in width and has a height of 1,462 millimetres.

The interior, with its finely tuned mix of materials and excellent workmanship, satisfies the needs of even the most demanding customer. The dashboard with its wave-shaped design groups the operating elements into sensible individual functional units. All of the primary functions are concentrated around the steering wheel and quick access is guaranteed because of the logical location. Thanks to the unique design, erroneous operation is practically eliminated. In certain trim levels, the steering wheel includes multi-function buttons for the operation of the radio unit, MFA and a mobile phone. Chrome inlay in the centre of the newly designed, leather wrapped steering wheel reflects the clear V-shape form of the car's front.

Seat Altea Freetrack, 2009

Seat Altea Freetrack, 2009






The complete launch offer of the SEAT Altea and SEAT Altea XL 2009 range includes 35 different versions divided into two body styles, nine engine choices - five petrol and four Diesel, four gearboxes (5 and 6-speed manual, and 6 and 7-speed DSG), and three trim levels - Reference, Style and Sport. The offer is complete with a new entry-level version and the SEAT Altea Freetrack model, which is available with either two or four-wheel drive and the Sport trim level.

The new SEAT Altea 2009 range is available with a broad equipment list as standard. The entry-level version features the 85 hp 1.4 and 90 hp 1.9 TDI engines on the SEAT Altea and only the 90 hp 1.9 TDI on the SEAT Altea XL, with elements such as ABS and TCS, ESP with EBA, driver and passenger airbag, side airbags, head airbag, rear Isofix anchoring points, front power one-touch anti-trap windows, remote controlled central locking, tinted glass, 15 inch steel rims, 195/65 tyres, double headlights, anti-theft roof aerial, sliding rear seats, storage compartments on the sides of the front and rear seats, central console storage compartment, storage hooks on the boot sides and rear parcel shelf with storage compartments, among others.