Land Rover working on new 8-speed automatic transmission, refinements for fuel economy

Land Rover is set to unveil a newly-revised line of SUVs at the New York Auto Show in a couple of weeks, and we’re expecting to see the latest version of Jaguar’s excellent 5.0L all-aluminum V8 engine underhood, mated up with a 6-speed automatic transmission from supplier ZF. That powertrain combination should be a thorough improvement over the current 4.4L naturally-aspirated and 4.2L supercharged offerings, and we wouldn’t be surprised to see at least a mild improvement in fuel efficiency along with the added power.

According to Channel 4 in the UK, Land Rover is hard at work developing a new 8-speed automatic that should boost fuel economy by over 10 percent over the current 6-speed. Unfortunately, stop/start technology is reportedly still a few years away. Other fuel-saving modifications that are likely to make it to production in short order will include improved aerodynamics and low rolling-resistance tires.

Land Rover is also expected to show off the latest version of its LRX concept in New York, which will reportedly be “the smallest, lightest, most efficient Range Rover ever.” It’s interesting that the LRX will be badged as a Range Rover, which is the firm’s highest-end line of vehicles, so we’d expect it to be extremely well equipped and full of luxurious touches if it does indeed make it into production.

2010 Jaguar new car

Just as the last current model XJ rolled out of Jaguar’s Castle Bromwich factory last week, (in the very British-sounding color of “vapour grey” no less), the company is busy finalizing a thoroughly revamped sedan for 2010. No doubt to the disappointment of many, the new model will be heavily influenced by the styling of the current XF.

Freightliner Innovation Truck

Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) unveiled the Freightliner Cascadia “Innovation Truck” at the Mid-America Trucking Show. The truck made its appearance in flat black and had a very futuristic edge to its look. It features advanced technologies including a set of spats down the side, air dam up front, underbody aero panels and rear-view cameras instead of rear-view mirrors. The truck also uses a “Dual Ride Height” which lowers the truck when its travels at highway speeds to lower drag. The truck also has improved battery power for the cab when the truck is parked overnight. It uses stored energy instead of idling the engine to run the HVAC and entertainment systems.

Koenigseder Aero-Tunes the Porsche Carrera GT

The most exclusive Porsche of the past decade or so may have gone out of production in 2006, but the tuning industry isn’t about to let go that easily. Austrian tuning house Koenigseder has just presented its new performance package for the Porsche Carrera GT that consists of a full bodykit, alloy wheels and a more sonorous exhaust system for the 612-horsepower strong 5.7-liter V10 engine that has been left intact.
Included in the aero kit are a newly designed front bumper that kind of reminds us of the Lamborghini Reventon, a new rear bumper with a larger diffuser and extra air vents, an awkward looking, giga-sizes fixed rear wing that puts to rest the factory pop-up spoiler, chunkier side skirts and a newly styled removable roof panel.

Mercedes-Benz renames diesels, adds hybrids, E350 BlueTec coming early 2010

Mercedes-Benz USA is making some changes to the lineup for the 2010 model year with new and revised diesel models and hybrids launching. First up, the existing diesel SUVs get new names with the ML320, R320 and GL320 getting a bump to ML350, GL350 and R350. As far as we know, nothing has actually changed for the second year of these 50-state legal BlueTec diesels other than the badges and a light cosmetic facelift for the GL that debuted at the New York Auto show.

August will bring with it the initial availability of Mercedes’ first hybrid. The 2010 S400 equipped with a mild hybrid system will be the first widely available hybrid car with a lithium ion battery. Come December, the ML450 hybrid will debut Mercedes’ implementation of two mode hybrid technology. Early in 2010, the new Tier 2 Bin 5 compliant E350 BlueTec with urea injection goes on sale in the U.S. using the same 3.0-liter V6 diesel powertrain found in the SUVs.

Chevrolet Volt-based Saab Fashionista

At this point, it’s not a certainty that Saab or even parent company General Motors will still be in the car business in the year 2012, but let’s not let that tidbit get in the way of an interesting concept car. Authored by Mayeul Walser, a fourth year design student at Creapole-ESDI, the Saab Fashionista is a 2+2 sport coupe that is reportedly inspired by the designs of Karl Lagerfeld and Chanel.

More importantly, this concept is based on the underpinnings of the Chevrolet Volt, which means there’s a range-extended electric powertrain hiding under its shapely bodywork. Since it only exists on paper, Walser took some liberties by ditching the eco-friendly drivetrain’s stock four-cylinder engine and replacing it with a more powerful V6.

In reality, a more powerful internal combustion engine wouldn’t make the Fashionista any faster than the Volt since the electric motor is the only power source driving the front wheels. No matter, it’s an interesting concept nonetheless. We especially like the nine-spoke blade-like carbon fiber rims.

G-POWER BMW M6 Hurricane CS: Fastest BMW Coupe in the World Achieves 370km/h - 231mph

For BMW tuning aficionado G-Power, there’s no such thing as enough power or too much speed. Having already pushed the limits on the M5 Sedan and more recently, the X5 SUV, the German tuner focused its resources on the development of an even more extreme and powerful edition of the 635HP M6 Hurricane. Called the Hurricane CS, the M6 Coupe-based model uses an upgraded version of the M5 Hurricane’s 730HP twin-turbocharged V10 that delivers an output of 750HP allowing the supercar to reach a top speed of 370km/h or 231mph.
To achieve the record breaking speed (for a production BMW coupe), Michelin provided a set of special high performance Pilot Sport PS2 in sizes 255/35 ZR 19 in front and 305/30 ZR 19 on the rear axle. For everyday use, G-Power offers the M6 with 21-inch Silverstone Diamond wheels shod in 255/30 ZR 21 (front) and 295/25 ZR 21 (rear) tires that are for use up to 340 km/h or 211mph.


Further development of the M5 Hurricane’s V10 engine that included optimized mapping of the ECU and redesigned superchargers contributed to the increased power output of 750 horsepower available between 7,500 and 8,000 rpm, and the peak torque of 800Nm or 590 lb-ft at 5,000 rpm.


At the same time G-POWER put the BMW M6 on a diet by replacing the entire exhaust system with one made from titanium that allegedly weighs 24 kg or 53lbs less than the factory exhaust while the new carbon fiber seats in the interior, save another 24kg (12kg or 26.5 lbs each seat).


The 750Hp V10 and the weight saving measures help the Hurricane CS sprint from zero to 100km/h or 62mph in 4.4 seconds, to 200km/h or 124mph in 9.6 seconds and to 300 km/h or 187mph in just 26 seconds.


Stopping power is provided by a Carbon-Ceramic break system with 6-piston calibres and brake discs with 380 mm in diameter, that is 50% lighter than the standard brakes. There’s also a height-adjustable G-POWER coil-over RS suspension with nine selectable settings each for bound and rebound and the G-POWER anit-roll-bar kit for the front and rear axles.


Other modifications on the G-Power M6 Hurricane CS include the multipart widebody aero kit that consists of new fenders, restyled bumpers, hood vents, carbon fiber spoilers and rear diffuser.


In the cabin, aside from the carbon-fiber sports seats, the Hurricane CS also gets a new speedometer with 400-km/h scale, clear-coated carbon-fiber panels for the dash, center console and doors, as well as a new sport steering wheel dressed in perforated Kjerba Nappa leather.


And the price for all of this? According to G-Power, a fully converted Hurricane CS starts at €360,000 or the equivalent of US$477,500.

2010 Jaguar XJ Officially Unveiled

The all new Jaguar XJ was officially revealed today at the Saatchi Gallery in London hosted by Jay Leno. There was some VIP’s in attendance including a variety of celebrities, public figures and business leaders. The newest Jaguar model features an exciting fresh design combined with high performance and engineering. Once very cool new exterior feature is the panoramic glass roof providing extra interior light and the vehicle a lower roof line. The car will have a greatly improved carbon footprint thanks to aerospace inspired aluminum body architecture that was used in building the car. This improves fuel consumption and performance. The interior features chrome and piano black detailing, leather and veneer surfaces. Other features include gadgets like an 8-inch touch screen that you watch DVD’s on as well as a 1200W sound system and media hub.

2x BINZ E 220 CDI Limousine 6 doors. JUST 2 SOLD FROM THE 4

2x BINZ E 220 CDI Limousine 6 doors. JUST 2 SOLD FROM THE 4
Build: 2009 #1 2009 BINZ E220 CDI Limo6 doors Elegance; appr.15.000 km with CLS-front..!! Transanit Blue with Gray interior, 7 persons. Automatic, Comand system with DVD navigation, Climate Comtrol, € 67.000,-- (new price € 100.390,--) #2 NEW BINZ E220 CDI Limo 6 doors Elegance, without registration With CLS-front..!! Calcit White with Black interior, 7 persons. Automatic, Comand system with DVD navigation, Climate Comtrol, € 68.000,-- (new price € 97.406,--) These cars are traded in through the factory, and we offer these discounted cars as BINZ-BENELUX Contact us for all specifications .

MERCEDES-BENZ GLK350 4MATIC 2010

If you're planning on buying a new compact SUV , you might want to hold off until January 2009, because this is when Mercedes-Benz will enter the market with its all new 2010 GLK. The new GLK is touted as the most significant and possibly the most important new model from Mercedes this year.

[Source: Mercedes]

Macro SkyRider XR2

One of the major concerns people have with the idea of a roadable aircraft is the safety issue surrounding a bunch of fast, flying objects all trying to occupy the same airspace. One company, Macro Industries, is taking this into consideration with the development of their four-passenger, vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) vehicle, the SkyRider XR2.

Macro is specifically building their flying car to integrate a “highway in the sky” computerized navigation system being developed by NASA. The new system will be similar to our current turn-by-turn GPS navigators, but will also be able to monitor air traffic to determine the best altitude and route to take to avoid other vehicles. SkyRider XR2 would take this system a step further by allowing you to simply program a destination and it will do the flying for you, making changes along the way based upon air traffic and weather conditions.
The SkyRider XR2 is still in the prototype phase while they look for investors to help fund the project. Once they’re able to start building, they estimate the cost to be $500,000 to $1 million at first, but hope to get the cost down to $50,000 once demand makes mass production possible.
But what if the most feasible flying car isn’t a car at all? Two companies are working on flying motorcycles with very different takes on the concept.

Modern Flying Car Designs AFA Sokol A400

One such design is the Sokol A400 from the Advanced Flying Automobile (AFA) Company of Huntington Beach, California. At first glance, the A400 looks like a new model sports car, with its swooping lines and sporty appearance. A look under the hood would further your assumption, as you would find a Chevy Corvette engine, capable of reaching speeds of 100MPH. However, at the touch of a button, telescopic wings emerge from the roof; a rear propeller pops up from the trunk; the “spoiler” becomes a vertical stabilizer that extends up over the car; and, finally, a pair of horizontal stabilizers appear from just behind the rear wheels. James Bond would be proud.
The A400 is still in the engineering phase, though a one-quarter scale model is currently being tested. AFA hopes to have a full-sized prototype built in the next few years, with production to begin within five years if possible. The projected cost to consumers looks to be somewhere in the range of $300,000 – $400,000.

Morgan today unveils the latest model in its Aero line-up, a new 170mph roadster called the Aero SuperSports

Sharing its chassis and 367bhp BMW 4.8-litre V8 engine with the AeroMax and Aero 8, the new Aero SuperSports will cost a cool £127,000 when production starts next year. Production is expected to be limited, this time to just 200 cars.

The new model will be offered with both six-speed auto' and manual gearboxes, and performance should be electrifying. Like the AeroMax before it, the Aero SuperSports is fully up-to-date technically using Canbus software to control engine functions, lighting, wipers and instrumentation, says the company. The Aero SuperSports also provides a modern safety package including Electronic Brake Distribution, tyre pressure monitoring, ABS and Siemens electronic airbags.



'The Morgan Aero SuperSports is a luxurious flamboyant sports car which also remains true to Morgan's philosophy of lightweight minimalist simplicity,' says Charles Morgan, grandson of the illustrious firm's founder. 'It is a celebration of our love of cars and the romance of travel and is a fitting model to announce during Morgan's Centenary year.'

The new model is revealed today in concept form at the Villa d'Este concours event in Italy.

The Best and Worst of Everything 2008

Worst Car
Cadillac Escalade Hybrid

General Motor's (GM) $72,000 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid may be the worst-timed, least-relevant new model introduction in decades. The new Escalade is not without virtues, featuring advanced technology similar to Toyota's (TM) Prius which improves fuel economy 50% over gas versions, to 21 miles per gallon. Still, brash, ostentatious, and, well, gaudy, the Escalade makes the very opposite statement GM is trying to peddle as it begs Congress for a bailout worth billions.

Opel today announced the new 2008 Opel Insignia

Opel’s next-generation range of mid-size cars promises a radical step forward. The new model family, which makes its world premiere at the London Motor Show in July 2008, sets technology and design standards for the Opel brand and mid-size segment. To lead off the proceedings, Opel today announced the new model’s name: 2008 Opel Insignia.
The new Opel Insignia family will be built at Opel’s home plant in Rüsselsheim, one of the most state-of-the-art automobile production facilities in the world.
Dynamic performance is one of the Opel brand’s core values. In the new Opel Insignia, this defining characteristic is realized by sophisticated powertrain technology, active safety and the interface between driver and car. The Insignia’s level of comfort and environmental friendliness is unrivaled even among considerably more expensive competitors,” says Alain Visser, Chief Marketing Officer, General Motors Europe.
With the Insignia, Opel continues pursuing its strategy of making advanced technology affordable for more customers.
When it comes to the new car’s design, Visser says, “A closer look at our groundbreaking GTC concept car gives a good idea of how exciting Opel’s new design language will be.”
The beginning of Opel’s modern mid-size heritage dates back to 1970 with the launch of the Ascona, which sold 4.4 million units over three generations. This was succeeded by the Vectra in 1988, heralding a new era of innovative models from Opel. With almost 5.5 million models sold to date, the Opel Vectra is one of the key players in the mid-size segment.

Honda CR-V , Honda City ZX , Honda Civic

New Honda City Cars | Honda City ZX Car Sales | Honda Accord Cars | qHonda Cars Dealer | Car Exchanging Facilities | Honda Car Showrooms | Car Showrooms in Delhi | Honda CR-V Car Sales | Honda Car Showroom in Delhi | Warranty Honda Cars

Nissan Frontier King Cab pickup

Price: $17,530 list/$17,179 transaction || Reno Nissan

This is Nissan's Tennessee-built compact pickup with an extended cab and a base 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine.

Even at this price, the Frontier is comfortably equipped, and it offers a truly versatile vehicle at a quite affordable price.

Mazda 3

Reno Nevada New Car News October 26, 2009TOP 10 CARS UNDER $18,000

Cars are getting to be quite expensive these days, with most new ones costing more than I paid for my first two or three houses.
In fact, the average new-vehicle transaction price last year was about $26,000.

Sticker shock is quite prevalent in the auto industry, but you really don't have to spend even the average price of $26,000 to get a fun and cool new car.

There are vehicles out there that are affordable, and they're not just stripped-down econoboxes.

The editors of the Kelley Blue Book new- and used-car price guides' online site, have compiled their list of the "Top 10 Cool, Affordable New Vehicles" selling for less than $18,000.
Price: $14,630 list price, actual transaction price not available. || Reno Toyota

This vehicle went on sale last month as the new entry-level model in Toyota's lineup, replacing the Echo.

Available in four-door sedan and three-door hatchback versions, the Yaris is powered by a 106-horsepower, 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine and comes with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.

The sedan is 19 inches longer than the hatchback and very roomy.

The big advantage of the Yaris besides its entry-level price is its fuel economy. Both models will get up to 34 miles per gallon in the city and 40 on the highway with the manual transmission and 34 city/39 highway with the automatic.

Tokyo moter show 2007

It is holding until tomorrow,Sunday in Makuhari Chiaba prefecture.
There are many new model cars or motos, trucks, more other things.
And, if you are'nt interested in vihicles, you can be enjoy there.
Because, beautiful girls are standing with each car.
You can take photos with them:-)
Then, some exhibits accept to try to ride on(not drive).

Driving is not good for the environment nowadays, but you can learn ecology about car life from this show.
Why don't you see cool cars and sexy girls? Then think a little bit about the earth for your future!

CHANA joined the 6th China (Guangzhou) International Automobile Exhibition

The 6th China (Guangzhou) International Automobile Exhibition will open on the 19th of November. Over 30 new model cars will make their appearance in the Pazhou International Convention and Exhibition Center. There is an increase in the number of the exhibitors, total booth space and the number of vehicles on exhibit.

CHANA attended this auto show with all new models, included Z-Shine—the test car for task ShenZhou-7 rocket. Benni 1.0L—CHANA’s hot sales model. And China's first own-brand mass-production hybrid electric vehicle—Joice HEV. They represented the latest achievements in CHANA’s independent innovation and new energy vehicle technology. In mini-cars, S460 and Starlight 4500 indicated wider and bigger mini-cars times will coming.

CHANA will insist on Independent Research and Development, to make CHANA become a world popular brand.

Tesla Gets $350m Loan, To Unveil Model S in March, Go On Sale In 2011

Tesla Motors made three major announcements in a press release today: the Model S will be in street-drivable form in March, the Department of Energy loaned them $350 million, and they’ll be solvent by mid-year this year (even without the loan).

Unveiling of the Tesla Model S Uncovers New Specs Too

The hot news right now is the unveiling of the Tesla Model S sedan, which happened with much anticipation and fanfare. Also released were the specifications for this new car from Tesla Motors. Shortly after it’s unveiling, we featured an article on it here at Zoomi Life, where I gave my impressions of the vehicle and it’s looks

Tesla S Pre-Sells 520 Cars in a Week

Tesla Motors unveiled the new Model S sedan at the end of march and in ten days has taken reservations for 520 cars and counting. For the bean counters, that’s $2.6 million in deposits (at $5,000 per car). The Model S doesn’t begin production until late 2011.

Tesla Model S Commercial

A new publicity promo from Tesla Motors has been released, featuring the 2011 Model S and chief designer Franz von Holzhausen. The Model S is to be Tesla’s first totally in-house design.

Tesla Moves Towards the Future With the Model S Platform

Tesla Motors announced what most in the industry probably saw coming: their in-house platform for the Model S sedan will be in later models too. Using a platform to create a series of vehicle models is nothing new and is, in fact, standard practice in the industry. The new models planned include a minivan, a crossover SUV, and a utility van.

Honda CR-V 2.0 i-VTEC SE New Model Demo Car (2009)

Model: CR-V 2.0 i-VTEC SE New Model Demo Car Engine: 2.0 Petrol Price: €27,950 Year: 2008 Colour: Metallic Green Mileage: 13,670 miles / 22,000 kilometers Owners: 1 Doors: 5 Location: Clonskeagh Motors
Clonskeagh Road, Clonskeagh, Dublin 14
Tel: 01 269 4477
Email: sales@clonskeaghmotors.com Comments: Electrically Folding Mirrors, Front Foglights, Multi Function Leather Steering Wheel, VSA - Vehicle Stability Control, 1 Owner, Adjustable Steering Wheel, Automatic Air Conditioning, CD Player, Drivers Air Bag, Dual Auto Climate Control, Multiple Airbags, Remote Central Locking, Metallic paintwork, Radio/CD/MP3, Alarm remote controlled, Immobiliser, Cruise control, ABS, Outside temperature meter, Parking sensor, Full service history, Bumper and mirror in color, Windows front + rear electric, Mirrors electric and heated, 17" light alloy wheels..

Lexus new Hybrid Cars

Thanks due to the pollution being forced on our planet due to the CO2 emissions from natural fuel; most car owners are going in for producing more and more hybrid cars. The same is the case with the major Japanese car manufacturer Toyota Motor Corporation and they are planning to come out with their dedicated hybrid model for its luxury Lexis range. Though there are some hybrid cars under the Lexus range, they are quite costly, but this one is expected to be the cheapest priced model of them all. Currently more than 70% of the cars sold by this company are hybrids.



One will be surprised to know that the biggest market for the hybrid cars manufactured by Lexus is Europe and not U.S. This new model, which is supposed to be released in 2009, shall be available only in Europe and Japan. With hybrid cars being much in demand nowadays Toyota is planning to double its production of hybrid cars. Toyota’s Lexus LS460 was equipped with a totally new 4.6L V-8 engine which is coupled to an eight speed automatic transmission, the first such in the world.

This care also boasts of a reconfigured multilink suspension and the chassis was also totally new. There are many intelligent features on this car including intelligent parking assistant, navigation system with real time updates about traffic, a HVAC system for monitoring body and cabin temperature, parking brake with hill-holder, anti rollback features and much, much more.

Honda NSX

The Orochi was originally built in 2001 as a concept on a Honda NSX chassis for the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show. Mitsuoka then kept revising the car, showing a new version in 2005 and displayed, at the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show, the Orochi Nude-Top Roadster.

The Chrysler Phaeton 1997

John E. Herlitz, Chrysler Corporation's Vice President of Product Design, said, "Phaeton embraces and contemporizes elegant, classic design cues from historic touring automobiles of the 1930s, 40s and 50s." The imposing dual cowl four-door hard-top convertible was inspired by Chrysler's dual cowl 1940 Newport parade car, a vehicle used primarily for transporting dignitaries and members of elite families during that time period. "With Phaeton, we expanded the use of today's convertible by giving it four doors and two windshields," said K. Neil Walling, Chrysler Corporation's Design Director. "We took an elegant design execution that was originally intended for the wealthy and created a practical, contemporary convertible." The dual cowl has expressive flowing lines, finely drawn details in the egg-crate grille, and a retractable rear compartment windshield. "Chrysler Phaeton effectively captures classic images from the Chrysler LHX and Chrysler Atlantic and translates them into a convertible format," said Walling. Richness, comfort and attention-to-detail are communicated throughout the vehicle's interior which features cream and brown-colored leather trim, woven cream leather inserts, satin metal details, and Zebrano wood accents. Both front and rear passenger compartments are separate and have their own radio, climate controls, luxurious seats, arm rests and center consoles. Speedometer and tachometer gauges are also featured in both compartments which allow rear passengers to monitor vehicle performance at a glance.
The power retractable convertible hardtop was developed and built by ASC, which made convertible tops for Chrysler (until the 2007 Sebring) and was also responsible for much of the design of the Chevy SSR. Phaeton's imposing size is supported by impressive performance. Its 132-inch (3353 mm) wheelbase and 22-inch wheels are powered by a 48-valve 5.4 liter aluminum V12 engine [perhaps two 2.7 liter V6 engines?]. Ride and handling are enhanced by an advanced suspension, similar to that of the Dodge Viper. The body-on-frame, rear wheel drive car used a four-speed automatic with a Dana 40 axle, making one suspicious that the truck division contributed its basic chassis.
"We wanted Phaeton's performance characteristics to be comparable to that of its inspirational father, the Newport," said Walling. "After all, the Newport was the pace car of the Indianapolis 500 in 1941."

new model car FASTLANE FUTURISTIC

Original movie prop concept car which was built by Trans FX as part of a $2.8 million dollar Universal Studios project.” 1980 Replica/Kit Makes : Other PONTIAC GM UNIVERSAL STUDIOS CONCEPT PROTOTYPE MOVIE FUTURE CAR

Fiat Panda Hydrogen

Fiat has certainly taken the time to look toward the future and the proof is in the Panda. The 2006 Fiat Panda Hydrogen Concept Car features Nuvera's new Andromeda II fuel cell stack. This hydrogen fuel cell allows the vehicle to have high power density and durability, as well as cold start capability. When Nuvera Fuel Cells Inc., a high-tech developer out of Massachusetts and Italy, developed the Andromeda II, Fiat acknowledged the opportunity to have the first vehicle with this advancement. The Fiat Panda Hydrogen Car's system has three main fuel cell components including an advanced turbo-blower, a cooling and humidifying system to correctly manage the reagent gases, and the auxiliary components set. This system allows the vehicle to function at a higher power and it allows for smooth handling. The fuel cell and hydrogen tank in the Fiat Panda Hydrogen Car are located beneath the floor pan unlike the 2004 version of the Panda Hydrogen Car where the fuel cell stack was located underneath the hood. In the 2006 model, the transmission and alternating current three-phase asynchronous electric engine (60 kw) is still located underneath the hood. Fiat also states that the electrical power generation system is so efficient that 60-percent is available and just 20-percent maximum power. The 2006 Fiat Panda Hydrogen Car uses a full power system, which means it lacks a drive battery for the accumulation of electrical energy. The Panda Concept receives enough energy directly from hydrogen tank to fuel cell to deliver the needed electricity to its high-torque electrical motors. This is a change from the 2004 Panda Hydrogen Concept, which used a hybrid system including a small electric battery pack to deliver more juice as needed and recover energy via regenerative braking. The 2006 Panda Concept can accelerate from 0 to 30 mph in 5 seconds and can reach a top speed of about 78 miles per hour. Unlike other low-powered hydrogen cars, the Fiat Panda Hydrogen Car can make it up a 23-degree slope on take-off. The Panda Hydrogen Car also boasts a travel distance of more than 120 miles and refueling time less than 5 minutes. The Fiat Panda Hydrogen Car indicates Fiat's advancement in pushing the research forward from the laboratory stage to the prototype research vehicle. The 2006 Fiat Panda Hydrogen Car was shown off in February of 2006 at the first ever Hydrogen Olympics in Turin, Italy, which coincided with the 2006 Winter Olympics in the same city. The Panda Hydrogen Concept is the result of a joint venture between the Fiat Research Centre, Fiat Auto and Fiat Powertrain Research & Technology division. Expect to see some 2006 Panda Hydrogen Concept Vehicles start to rollout as test fleet vehicles around Italy and the rest of the European Union at the end of 2006

Compact Sports & Specialty

The first concept car to come out of ED², the CS&S was created to make hearts race. The 4-wheel drive roadster uses Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive. An electric motor drives the front wheels, and a gas engine combines with the electric motor to drive the rear. Inside, a new gadget called Toyota Space Touch allows the driver to select minor functions such as air conditioning and lights, using holographic projections.

Lexus LS 460L

Completely redesigned for 2007, achieves record levels of interior opulence. And technology too, I should add. This elongated Asian is chalk full of features that require several hours of getting used to before exploiting their full potential.

International 77th motor-show and accessoaries – 8th – 18th March Geneva

With its first show in 1905, the Geneva Auto Show has more than 100 years of history. Its location in Switzerland represents neutral ground for automakers from around the world to show off new models and concepts. Almost all motor combustion models have been featured in the show – ranging from benzene to steam, with many exotic and super cars stealing the spotlights throughout the 20th century. Prototypes, new equipment, technical breakthroughs, and international partnerships as well as political and social debates are all landmarks of this international exhibition. The Geneva show isn’t focused on any one particular area but covers the entire automotive industry, with production cars, design previews, and accessories.
The mix of notable new models at the Geneva Auto Show is decidedly international, with two Asian entrants; a few Europeans, including one from the United Kingdom; and even an American under a European nameplate. The variety runs from the sporty Lotus Europa S to the economical Daihatsu D-Compact. The show is held at Palexpo, a giant convention center located next to the International Airport. The Salon is scheduled by the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d’Automobiles, which considers it a major international auto show.Opening times:
Monday – Friday 10 am to 8 pm
Saturday – Sunday 9 am to 7 pm
Price of admission – Day tickets
Adults 14 CHF
Children from 6 to 16 and pensioners 8 CHF
Group rate (more than 20 people) 9 CHF/pers.First European Presentations
More than 30 new models will be presented on the exhibition…
Lotus Europa S
Recognizing a need for a more practical daily driver but keeping to its sports-car lineup, Lotus developed the Europa S. This car retains all the sporting characteristics of the Elise, but it has a bit more room in the trunk and comes standard with GPS navigation, a quality audio system, and a leather interior. It’s powered by a 200-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
Lexus LS 460L
Completely redesigned for 2007, achieves record levels of interior opulence. And technology too, I should add. This elongated Asian is chalk full of features that require several hours of getting used to before exploiting their full potential.


ASTON MARTIN V8 VANTAGE ROADSTER
The new convertible version of the Aston Martin V8 Vantage – called roadster.

BMW 5er – Like its little sister, the 5-Series has had its facade changed a bit and its interior fittings renewed. The result: even more comfort, luxury and pleasure in what the manufacturer presents as a “confirmation of the alliance between top quality and sporty performance”.


Carver One – The Carver One is a three-wheeled, twin-seat tilting vehicle, combining the agility of a motorcycle with the comfort and safety of a car. It is steered like a car, but banks like a motorcycle. The DVC system automatically adjusts the tilt angle of the cockpit to the speed and acceleration of the vehicle, enabling a plane-like ’tilting before cornering’, ensuring an optimum balance at all times.

TRAMONTANA
New carbon fiber monocoque of Tramontana embodies a revolutionary concept that incorporates technical precision and personalized design.

The global discussions in Switzerland finally turned to more important things — like cool cars. With participation from nearly every major manufacturer and design house, the annual Geneva Motor Show guarantees plenty of vehicles worthy of international attention. This year was not will exception.


Tags: • cars • Geneva • Geneva_auto_show • motorshow

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New BMW GINA Light Visionary Model Car Is One Sexy Shape-Shifter

The new BMW concept car is a shape-shifter? Hrmmm, this bears looking into. The new BMW GINA Light Visionary Model car is created using a flexible fabric that is rather stretched over a manipuable metal frame. So you can basically change the actual shape of your car based on what features you activate. More of like a classy Thing.

This is currently no word on if this beautiful machine will actually go into production, but my vote is a definite yes!

The '8c Competizione' concept car, designed and produced by the Alfa Romeo Style Centre, stands as an icon of the brand, its very name evocative of Al

The '8c Competizione' concept car, designed and produced by the Alfa Romeo Style Centre, stands as an icon of the brand, its very name evocative of Alfa's great motorsports tradition. This is borne out by the code '8c' used to identify cars (racing and on-road) of the Thirties and Forties equipped with the revolutionary eight-cylinder engine produced by the famous designer Vittorio Jano. The second term 'Competizione' is intended as a homage to the 6C 2500 Competizione, a sports coupé driven in 1950 by the team of Fangio - Zanardi in the famous Mille Miglia race.

So '8c Competizione' is not an invented name, but a clear reference to Alfa's racing history. The Alfa Romeo legend was in any case born out of victories won on circuits throughout the world.

Alfa's many successes make a long and fascinating story on their own, a story of men and their competitive passion, engines and cutting-edge engineering.

The protagonists of the inestimable human and technological heritage that is responsible for today's beautiful cars, full of character and, above all, capable of combining the beauty of the styling with the pleasure of driving them.

Let us admire then the captivating, original lines of this prevalently carbon fibre 2-seater, with its aggressive proportions: 1900 mm wide, 4278 mm long and 1250 mm high, with a wheelbase of 2595 mm.

The body is given extra dynamism by the horizontal furrow cut into the side above the front wheelarch.

In addition to this, the large tyres (245/40 - R20 at the front and 275/35 - R20 at the rear) and the powerful, muscular rear wings accentuate the impression the model gives of a strong, forceful personality. This does not detract in any way from the elegance of the lines that run smoothly from front to back, to the light clusters set into the front bumper. A stylistic balance that has its maximum expression in the daring design of the rear window and the whole rear mudguard.

The front elements have been repositioned as they were on the most important Alfa racing cars of the past: the 'whiskers' and shield are aligned at the same height - a decision of historical and evolutionary significance. But a rapid glance will reveal that the styling of the whole exterior is full of classical references, an ideal opportunity for a modern interpretation of traditional Alfa styling cues. A quick glance tells you everything. For example, the front end recalls the former 33 Coupé Stradale. While the rear sports the characteristic round light clusters of the Giulia TZ.

It is difficult to be indifferent to the '8c Competizione' concept car, because it is the pure expression of Alfa Romeo's concept of the car. And with this new model, Alfa's stylistic language takes a further step forward. Compared to another concept car, the 'Nuvola', which also featured the shapes and surface treatment of the new Alfa Romeo aesthetics, the styling approach of the Alfa 8c Competizione enhances the brand's DNA with a modern hi-tech interpretation of the most famous designs in Alfa Romeo history.

Nor can we forget that the Alfa Romeo sports cars of past and present all share a particular feature: the ability to thrill even the most experienced drivers when they take the wheel. And the Alfa 8c Competizione is no exception.

Suffice it to say that under the bonnet lurks a 4.2 litre V8 (90°) unit combined with a 6-speed manual rear transmission, that takes the prototype to a top speed above 300 km/h, accelerating from 0 to 100 kilometres in just 4.5 seconds. This engine commands not only absolute performance and outstanding peaks of power and torque, but also smooth, effortless delivery even at low speeds. The result is a car capable of exciting performance, that is perfectly at home on everyday roads and not only on the racetrack.

The 8c Competizione combines this brilliant performance with extraordinary roadholding and the handling of a true thoroughbred. The merit goes to the dual wishbone suspension at front and rear, which ensures extremely enjoyable handling, combining the driving control you would expect of rear-wheel drive with an exceptionally sporty drive and pinpoint response, which are particularly important on mixed routes. We must underline that Alfa Romeo chose rear-wheel drive on the 8c Competizione to support the exuberant engine and to deliver truly unbeatable emotions.

Tesla unveils their new Model S electric car

the electric car startup company, recently unveiled their new Model S car in Los Angeles. The electric prototype car will cost $49,900, after a $7,500 tax credit and will be available for purchase in late 2011.

“Model S doesn’t compromise on performance, efficiency or utility — it’s truly the only car you need,” said Tesla CEO, Chairman and Product Architect Elon Musk. “Tesla is relentlessly driving down the cost of electric vehicle technology, and this is just the first of many mainstream cars we’re developing.”

The Tesla Model S will have a range of 300 miles with the possibility to buy less expensive batteries that will give you a range of 230 or 160 miles. The charging time is expected to take 4 hours, or 45 minutes by using a “quickcharge”. The car will do 0-60 mph in less than six seconds (5.6 seconds), a sport version of the car is promised to achieve 0-60 mph “well below five seconds”

The BlueCar electric car by Pininfarina and Bolloré

European car makers Pininfarina and Bolloré have created BlueCar, a hybrid vehicle powered by lithium-polymer batteries. According to the car makers the first units of this electric car will be delivered in about a year. Leases for the BlueCar will be available in six European countries at a cost of €330 per month.

BlueCar will be able to be charged from a standard domestic main socket and will have a range of 250 km (153 miles). The car will have a top speed of 130 km/h (80 mph) and will feature potent acceleration, reaching 60 km/h from a standing start (0 to 37 mph) in 6.3 seconds. According to Pininfarina and Bollore the BlueCar will be able to run about 30 km (20 miles) on only a charge of a few minutes. The car will also be equipped with solar panels on the roof to help power the electrical equipments as well as its heating and air-conditioning system. Critics say the solar panels are a cool addition to the car but that it will make the car more expensive.

Detroit Auto Show: Green Cars Galore

The 2009 Detroit Auto Show is this week, and there is plenty of exciting green automotive action going down! The auto companies exhibiting seem to be working to “out-green” each other…. which is fine by us.



Toyota unveiled its new 2010 Prius to great excitement. This new model will offer 50 MPG, up from 46 MPG for the current model. The new model also featured solar panels on the roof which power the car’s cooling system. The new Prius is also faster, accelerating from 0 to 60 MPH in 9.5 seconds. (Although how many Prius drivers are really into gunning it?) They have not yet announced the price (current models start at ~$22K), but the new Prius will be on sale in the US this Spring.



Another green car leader, Honda, unveiled its new Insight hybrid model for 2010. According to MSNBC, the Insight’s hybrid design is quite different from Toyota’s, functioning as a primarily gas-powered vehicle with an electric assist motor, a decision that produces better highway fuel economy than city mileage. The Insight will get 40 in the city and 43 on the highway, according to Honda. The Insight will also likely cost less than the Prius as it has a smaller battery and electric motor. Honda has not announced the price of its new Insight, but said that it will be below that of its Civic hybrid. Likely it will go for around $20,000.

The American companies were also trying to seem like they were on the green super-highway to the future. Chrysler showed off the 200C EV with an electric power train. This is still a concept car, based on the existing Chrysler 300C model. This new hybrid car will go 40 miles on electricity, with an engine generating more energy for additional range when needed. Let’s hope they stay in business long enough to bring this car to market!

Aptera Electric Cars Showing Peek at Interiors

For those of you who follow our blog, you know we’re big fans of what the folks at Aptera are up to. Aptera is building an all-electric, three-wheeled car that has a small fraction as much aerodynamic drag as a Prius. The Aptera 2e goes 100-120 miles with a top speed of 85-90mph, and boasts normal car safety features and impressive crash test results. And it looks like a super cool Jetson mobile, which makes it especially exciting.

Now the folks at Aptera are starting to reveal what the inside of their space-age auto will look like. You can see a sample below and here is what Aptera has to say about their design developments:

The first major issue was space. We tested men and women of every age and stature and found, in many cases, we were not offering enough room in the cabin. With that information, we enhanced the cabin using our Aptera formula — safety, then aerodynamics, then lightweight. The new interior cabin is now roughly 10% larger by every measure.

“The new 2 series also now has headroom and legroom comparable to, if not better than, the Mini and Chevy Volt. We widened the area at the hips to provide more space than the Smart EV and the Nissan Cube. Then to top it off, we increased our cargo capacity by more than 24 cubic feet, which is nearly two times the space available in the Honda Accord.”