Monday, July 30, 2007

New BMW 1 Series Coupé (UK)

2008 BMW 1-Series Coupe2008 BMW 1-Series Coupe2008 BMW 1-Series Coupe2008 BMW 1-Series Coupe2008 BMW 1-Series Coupe2008 BMW 1-Series Coupe2008 BMW 1-Series Coupe2008 BMW 1-Series Coupe BMW 1-series Coupe
BMW is extending the 1 Series line-up in the UK with a new model consisting of a brace of high performance twin-turbocharged engines and a diesel capable of a frugal 58.9mpg. The new BMW 1 Series Coupé goes on sale in the UK in November and will be available in 120d, 123d and135i guises. The 135i marks the first time a twin-turbo petrol engine has powered a 1 Series, while the launch of the 123d heralds the introduction of the world's most powerful production four-cylinder diesel engine.
The flagship of the range is the BMW 135i with its 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged petrol powerplant. Offering 306hp from its light alloy and magnesium straight-six engine, the 135i is capable of accelerating from zero to 62mph in 5.3 seconds before going on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. Peak torque of 400Nm from just 1,300rpm through to 5,000rpm ensures smooth yet rapid progress and in-gear flexibility.
Courtesy of High Precision Direct Injection for the most efficient burn of fuel mix and Bi-VANOS variable valve technology combined with lightweight engineering principles, the BMW 135i is capable of frugal motoring while maintaining its top end performance. The 2,979cc engine posts a 30.7mpg figure on the combined cycle and a CO2 emissions figure of 220g/km. BMW's EfficientDynamics programme seeks to boost engine performance while at the same time cut fuel consumption and emissions. Second generation High Precision Direct Injection and Brake Energy Regeneration are both elements of EfficientDynamics deployed on the 135i Coupé.
Frugal yet sporting
The BMW 135i is joined in the range by another twin-turbocharged model to offer a unique blend of performance and economical motoring. The 204hp four-cylinder engine in the BMW 123d Coupé sets a benchmark for small diesels. Its 1,995cc powerplant is the world's first all aluminium diesel to have an output per litre figure in excess of 100hp - something only BMW M cars usually attain. It is also the first four-cylinder production diesel to come with twin-turbo technology. Peak torque is 400Nm from 2,000rpm, while the engine revs to in excess of 4,400rpm where peak power is attained. This performance equates to a zero to 62mph time of 7.0 seconds and a top speed of 148mph - previously unheard of figures in such small capacity production diesels. By comparison the output of the four-cylinder BMW 123d betters that of established six-cylinder diesel engines from both Audi and Mercedes.
The BMW 123d Coupé also makes financial sense. Its 138g/km emissions figure sees it fall into the Band C Vehicle Excise Duty tier while the fuel consumption figure on the combined cycle is 54.3mpg. It is aided in this by the use of elements from BMW's renowned EfficientDynamics programme. The 123d comes with Auto Start-Stop technology, Brake Energy Regeneration, third-generation common-rail fuel injection, a diesel particulate filter, active aerodynamics, Electric Power Steering and low rolling resistance tyres.For customers seeking an entry point into the new 1 Series Coupé range, the 120d offers another option of style, driving dynamics and parsimonious motoring. Its 1,995cc four-cylinder engine mixes a 177hp output and a zero to 62mph time of 7.6 seconds with 58.8mpg economy and emissions of just 128g/km. The same EfficientDynamics technologies used on the 123d are also deployed on the 120d.
Dynamic capabilityLike every BMW before it, except xDrive models, the new BMW 1 Series Coupé has 50:50 weight distribution and a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration for the best in driving dynamics. To offer the most compliant yet sporting ride and the best in directional stability, the 1 Series Coupé has a double-joint spring strut front axle arrangement with a five-link rear suspension. Such an arrangement allows engineers greater scope in fine tuning the ride characteristics of the car.
Dynamic Stability Control is standard on the 120d Coupé to act as an electronic safety blanket for the driver. Dynamic Traction Control is a further function of DSC that permits a greater degree of wheelslip for more spirited driving. The BMW 123d and the 135i come as standard with Dynamic Stability Control+ with its five additional safety features of Soft Stop, Hill start assistant, Brake Drying, Brake pre-tensioning and Brake fade compensation. In addition to this the 135i Coupé has a high performance braking system featuring six-piston callipers for greater retardation.
Design
The BMW 1 Series Coupé uses the same architecture as the three- and five-door models, but is shrouded in an elongated coupé body to emphasise the sporting nature of the car. The 1 Series Coupé is 4,360mm long (133mm more than other 1 Series) and 1,934mm wide (1mm more). The slight increase in body size means the boot space swells from 350-litres to 370-litres. A standard 60:40 rear seat split permits greater load flexibility allowing for items to be stored in place of one or both rear seat occupants.
The BMW 120d Coupé will be available in ES, SE and M Sport guises, while the 123d Coupé will be offered in SE and M Sport and the 135i Coupé just as an M Sport. M Sport raises the specification bar by including 17-inch light alloy wheels on the 120d and 123d Coupé but unique 18-inch light alloy wheels on the 135i Coupé, M Aerodynamic package, M Sports suspension, Sports seats, High-gloss Shadowline exterior trim, M leather steering wheel, M designation door sills and Anthracite headlining.
Prices for all three models will be announced closer to the on sale date.
Model//Power-Hp/Torque-Nm/Zero-62 mph-Seconds/Top SpeedMph/Combined-Mpg/
BMW 120d Coupé 177 350 7.6 141 58.9
BMW 123d Coupé 204 400 7.0 148 54.3
BMW 135i Coupé 306 400 5.3 155* 30.7
* Electronically-limited
source: BMW

TECHART Magnum Based on the Porsche Cayenne

2008 Techart Magnum2008 Techart Magnum2008 Techart Magnum2008 Techart Magnum2008 Techart Magnum World Debut at the International Frankfurt Auto Show IAA 2007
The new TECHART Magnum Based on the Latest Porsche Cayenne
With more than 500 produced units the Magnum is the most successful model in the 20-year history of TECHART Automobildesign. At the Frankfurt International Auto Show IAA 2007 the new TECHART Magnum based on the latest Porsche Cayenne celebrates its world debut.
Like its predecessor the new TECHART Magnum sets itself apart with a spectacular aerodynamic-enhancement package that fits all versions of the Porsche SUV. All body components are manufactured from PUR-RIM plastic in OEM quality.
The curved TECHART fender flares add eight centimeters to the width of the Cayenne. The Magnum rocker panels provide a fluent transition between the wider wheel arches.
The new aprons for front and rear that replace their production counterparts were designed to correspond visually to the more pronounced contours of the wheel arches. The TECHART Magnum front apron lends the latest Cayenne generation an even more striking appearance. Its large air inlets feature elegantly styled slats and provide ample cooling air for radiators and front brakes. A total of four auxiliary headlights and daytime running lights improve active safety.
The TECHART Magnum rear apron with integrated diffuser reduces lift on the rear axle and provides the perfect backdrop for the TECHART stainless-steel sport exhaust system with two chrome tailpipes on either side.
The body conversion can be rounded out with moldings for front and rear lights, as well as with a new hood that features two air outlets that optimize heat balance in the engine bay.
The Magnum also features custom-tailored wheels and tires. The largest possible version features TECHART Formula II light-alloy wheels in size 10.5Jx22 in front and in size 11,5Jx22 in the rear. For optimal tires TECHART chose ContiCrossContact UHP tires in sizes 295/30 ZR 22 and 335/25 ZR 22, which are approved on the Cayenne for a top speed of 300 km/h.
These tires also make the Magnum a prime candidate for the engine tuning of the Cayenne Turbo that is currently under development and in its most powerful incarnation will produce up to 620 hp / 456 kW.
The air suspension of the Cayenne Turbo is modified with the TECHART sport module that lowers the ride height for enthusiastic on-road driving by 30 millimeters. The entire range of adjustment from the lowest ride height (loading level) to the highest (special off-road level) measures some 110 millimeters.
source: Techart

Peugeot 308 RC Z

Peugeot 308 RC Z ConceptPeugeot 308 RC Z ConceptPeugeot 308 RC Z Concept
Peugeot 308 RC Z ConceptPeugeot 308 RC Z ConceptPeugeot 308 RC Z ConceptPeugeot 308 RC Z ConceptPeugeot 308 RC Z Concept The Peugeot 308 RC Z Concept, will see its premiere at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

Mitsubishi Concept-cX at Frankfurt Motor Show

Mitsubishi Concept-cX Mitsubishi Concept-cX- Dual peace of mind -
Building upon 70 years of four-wheel drive expertise, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) is in a privileged position to appreciate the customer benefits of this technology, in terms of on-road active safety and off-road ability, from Lancer Evolution to Pajero.
At the occasion of the 62nd Frankfurt Motor Show, MMC will combine this dynamic fluency with the first tangible demonstration in Europe of its regionalised environmental strategy, previewing the CO2-friendly next generation Euro 5 Clean Diesel family of engines co-developed with its parent company, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd.
As a showcase for this dual "peace of mind", Mitsubishi Motors will unveil Mitsubishi Concept-cX* in Frankfurt: an accessible, affordable, sustainable and realistic solution to today's pressing issues. Sporty and flexible, Mitsubishi Concept-cX will follow the popular compact SUV route to carry this message right at the heart of the market.
Featuring the "Jet Fighter" grille already seen with Lancer Sports Sedan and using a soft-road application of the Outlander-derived Electric control four-wheel drive drivetrain, the 4.10m long Mitsubishi Concept-cX will also intend to create a link between Mitsubishi's passenger cars and SUVs.
Sharp in design and in dynamics, Mitsubishi Concept-cX will boast an excellent environmental performance to be seen in the low fuel consumption and emission levels achieved by its next generation 1.8-litre Clean Diesel engine, mated to an automated manual transmission. A preview of a family of powertrains to be launched in the course of 2009, it features a variable geometry diffuser (VG) turbocharger – to generate optimum boost pressure for all engine loads – and DPF technologies.
Mitsubishi Concept-cX's further green credentials include eco-friendly "Green Plastics", MMC's proprietary plant-based resin technology, effectively used for interior trim materials.
As a reminder, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has adopted an all-embracing approach in addressing global environmental issues. Under its "EIP 2010" ("Environment Initiative Program 2010") umbrella project, the Company is actively engaged in the development of a wide range of such technologies, covering:
o Powertrains suiting regional needs, driving patterns & infrastructures:+ Clean Diesel Euro 5 family of engines for Europe+ MiEV next-generation electric vehicle for Japan+ Flexible fuel vehicle for Brazilo Materials (plant-based "Green Plastic",...)o Processes ("Design for Environment" guiding principles,...).o Manufacturing (pollution-prevention and recycling measures).o Conservation ("Pajero Forest & Local Mountain Restoration Initiative" aiming to conserve and cultivate Japan's forests and woodlands).
Note: "Pajero" is "Montero" in Spain and "Shogun" in the UK.
* 'Compact crossover' concept vehicle

Sunday, July 29, 2007

Mugen Civic Type R Revealed

Mugen Honda Civic Type-RMugen Honda Civic Type-RMugen Honda Civic Type-RMugen Honda Civic Type-RMugen Honda Civic Type-R

Source: MUGEN

Saturday, July 28, 2007

Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 by Edo Competition

Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 by Edo CompetitionLamborghini Murcielago LP640 by Edo CompetitionLamborghini Murcielago LP640 by Edo CompetitionLamborghini Murcielago LP640 by Edo CompetitionLamborghini Murcielago LP640 by Edo CompetitionLamborghini Murcielago LP640 by Edo CompetitionLamborghini Murcielago LP640 by Edo CompetitionLamborghini Murcielago LP640 by Edo CompetitionLamborghini Murcielago LP640 by Edo CompetitionLamborghini Murcielago LP640 by Edo CompetitionTechnical data - Lamborghini Murcièlago LP640
Engine
6.5 ltr. V12 cylinder

Output
663HP / (487.5 kW) at 7.800 U/min

Max. Torque
675 Nm at 5.600 U/min

Performance
Top speed est. 348 km/h (216 mph)0 - 100 km/h (0 - 62 mph) est. 3.8 s

Features
Engine:
• ECU recalibration
• Special high-flow air filters
• Newly designed high-performance catalytic converters
• New exhaust butterfly valve control (remote-controlled on request)
• New high-flow muffler
• New stainless steel exhaust tips

Body:
• Specially designed rear wing with adjustable lip

Wheels:
• Custom paint on request

Interior:
• Rear view camera
• Tire pressure monitoring system
• Carbon fiber interior trim
Source: Edo Competition

Porsche Cayenne Hybrid

Porsche Cayenne HybridPorsche Cayenne HybridPorsche Cayenne HybridPorsche Cayenne HybridPorsche Cayenne HybridPorsche Cayenne Hybrid Porsche, a company renown for its high-performance sports cars and sport utility vehicles (SUV), this week in Stuttgart demonstrated to the media a Cayenne SUV hybrid prototype, providing a glimpse of what the company will offer to consumers by the end of the decade.
Porsche is targeting average fuel consumption figures of 9.8 liters/100 kilometers in the New European Driving Cycle and about 24 miles per gallon in the US FTP cycle for the Cayenne Hybrid, and future developments may allow Porsche engineers to push towards an average fuel consumption figure of 8.9 liters/kilometer (approximately 26 miles per gallon).
The Cayenne Hybrid will feature a full-hybrid design where the hybrid module (clutch and electric motor) is positioned between the combustion engine and the transmission rather than having the hybrid drivetrain branching output along various lines and in various directions via a planetary gearset. Porsche selected this design because the in-line configuration of the hybrid components are more compatible with the existing Cayenne platform, this system in testing is more fuel efficient, and because this configuration is a better fit for Porsche as it will provide improved acceleration and engine flexibility compared to a conventional Cayenne.
Coordinating the car's three main components - the combustion engine, the electric motor and the battery - is the Hybrid Manager, the heart of the Cayenne Hybrid. The Hybrid Manager, which oversees some 20,000 data parameters as compared to only 6,000 data parameters for a conventional engine, is one of the most powerful technologies found in any hybrid vehicle.
Other unique features of the Cayenne Hybrid designed to decrease fuel consumption include the power steering and vacuum pump for the brakes, as well as the air conditioning, which operate on electric power. Technical components, such as the oil pump in the Cayenne's automatic transmission, have been replaced by electrically powered units. The Cayenne Hybrid's electro-hydraulic steering - a first for a vehicle of its kind, will ensure the Cayenne Hybrid drives like a Porsche with predictable and safe handling characteristics and the agility that is expected of a Porsche SUV.
Porsche plans to introduce similar hybrid technology in a version of its Panamera four-door Gran Turismo. The Panamera will debut in 2009, with a hybrid to follow.
source: Porsche

Sportec Porsche SP580

Porsche Sportec SP580Porsche Sportec SP580Porsche Sportec SP580Porsche Sportec SP580Porsche Sportec SP580

The Seaworthy MINI

The Seaworthy MINIThe Seaworthy MINIThe Seaworthy MINIThe Seaworthy MINIThe Seaworthy MINI Source: MINI