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Ferrari F250 Concept Design by Idries Omar

Thu, 27 Nov 2008 15:15:35 +0300

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Ferrari 612 Scaglietti One-to-one personalisation programme

mybb@mybb.ru (wreck) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 22:21:23 +0300

The North American debut of the 2008 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti and the One-to-one personalisation programme

Ferrari officially premieres today in North America the 2008 612 Scaglietti, the model used to inaugurate the new One-to-One Personalization Program of the Company.

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 Carrozzeria Scaglietti Programme. In fact, a special dedicated "atelier" area has been set up at the factory, where clients can put together their own bespoke 612 Scaglietti accessory by accessory, detail by detail. In exactly the same way as they would at an haute couture fashion house, owners can choose details and materials they want for their car in consultation with the Ferrari experts who will actually build it to their exact specifications and tastes.

Clients will be assisted in making their selections by dedicated Programme consultants who can help them at every stage of defining their car's specification.

All of these unique new 612 Scagliettis will be built in a dedicated assembly area at the Maranello factory.

The 612 Scagliettis being used to launch the One-to-One Programme incorporate 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. The electrochromic glass can be changed at the touch of a button to adjust the levels of sunlight allowed into the cabin. This 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 Company's sporting history is represented at the Park Avenue Showroom by the 430 Scuderia, an extreme model voted "Dream Car of the Year" by the authoritative British car magazine Top Gear.

Ferrari in North and South America

2007 was the 15th consecutive year of growth for Ferrari North America with 1,762 cars delivered in the United States and Canada and a further 90 in Central and South America, amounting to 1,851 Ferraris altogether. This figure represents 30% of Ferrari's total sales worldwide, making North America the company's largest market. Sales were also up 8% on the previous year's figures for the North, Central and South American market.

There are 45 dealerships in Ferrari's American network: 32 are in the United States, 4 in Canada and 9 in South America.

The North American dealership network has invested $70 million over the last three years in upgrading its infrastructure while a further $30 million will be spent in 2008.

California is the largest of the North American markets, accounting for 27% of sales. It is followed by North East (16%), Florida (11%), Texas (7%) and Chicago (6%).

The leading South American markets are Brazil, Mexico, Venezuela, Chile and Argentina.

Ferrari North America enjoys an exclusive relationship with its clients and enthusiasts, which has been further enhanced by the introduction of a vast range of services and events over the last few years. These include the Ferrari Challenge, which celebrates its 16th edition this year and offers F430 Challenge owners no less than seven different opportunities to race their cars in the course of the year.

In 2008 The Ferrari Challenge races will be held in Florida, Georgia, Northern California (both at the Infeneon and Laguna Seca tracks), Quebec and New Jersey.

Since 2006 Ferrari North America has also been organizing the Ferrari North America Driving School, which is based at the Mont Tremblant circuit in Quebec. Course participants are given the opportunity to learn various driving control techniques to ensure they fully enjoy their car at the peak of its performance in an environment in which safety remains the absolute priority at all times.

Ferrari Financial Services was also introduced to the United States in July 2007. The company was created to acquaint Ferrari clients to a new world of services, including but not limited to financing options, which utilize a wide range of personalized flexible programs.

Ferrari FXX Pacchetto Evoluzione

mybb@mybb.ru (wreck) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 22:17:57 +0300

Ferrari FXX Pacchetto Evoluzione

Ferrai FXX programme extended for further two years thanks to new evolution kit developed with assistance of Client Test-Drivers.

The innovative FXX programme, based on the eponymous prototype car and launched by Ferrari in June 2005, is being extended to 2008/2009. The FXX, which is the most advanced GT ever created at Maranello, has been updated with an evolution package aimed at further improving its handling and performance. The package was developed as a result of Ferrari's collaboration with its Client Test Drivers and with the invaluable support of Michael Schumacher. The FXXs equipped with this package will also sport a new livery in addition to new rear wing profiles.

The FXX is not homologated for road use and there are no plans to compete with it either. In fact, the FXX prototype is designed exclusively for track driving as part of a specific R&D programme agreed with a selected group of just over 20 clients involving 14 group test sessions and 14 private ones in the last two years. Thanks to readings taken over the 16,500 kilometres of tests carried out in 2006 and the 18,500 kilometres covered in 2007, the modifications made to the car have focused on honing its aerodynamics, running gear and electronics. Seven-times Formula 1 World Champion Michael Schumacher also joined the ranks of the client test drivers and gave the programme the benefit of his vast experience on several occasions.

Maranello's engineers studied the wealth of information gained to develop a kit which will cut the FXX's Fiorano lap time to under 1'16'' (previously it was 1'18''). The FXX's 6262 cc V12 engine can now punch out a massive 860 hp at 9500 rpm. Gearshifting takes just 60 ms, a drop of 20 ms on the previous time, and the gear ratios have been adapted to make use of the extra 1000 rpm now delivered by the engine.

The car's new traction control system, developed in close collaboration with the GES Racing Division engineers, gives the driver a choice of no less than nine different settings (plus the off position) which are selected using a switch on the central tunnel. This means that the driver really can modify the car's behaviour on the track from corner to corner, just as the Formula 1 drivers do to maximise performance and reduce tyre wear. The FXX's traction control is also now less invasive and more flexible, adapting more efficiently to the individual driving style of each driver - a requirement pinpointed when this very extreme car was being driven on the track by non-professional drivers.

The FXX's special 19" Bridgestone tyres now last longer too thanks to a new car setup and new front suspension geometry, while the Brembo brakes, which boast large Composite Ceramic Material (CCM) discs, are more efficient with the result that the brake pads last twice as long. Thanks to the drivers' feedback the Ferrari engineers have also developed new aerodynamic solutions aimed at increasing downforce over the rear axle. The FXX now sports a new rear diffuser, nolder and rear flaps which have combined to increase aerodynamic efficiency by 25% overall. The active front spoiler control system settings have been adjusted to take these modifications into account too. New telemetry monitoring of the steering angle and brake pump pressure will further boost the interaction between Client test drivers and the company's engineers also. From next year onwards, it will be possible for drivers to have two extra video cameras mounted on their car in addition the existing rear-facing one. This will, of course, give the drivers excellent rear visibility without having to impinge in any way on the car's aerodynamics.

The FXX evolution package includes participation in a series of track events that Ferrari is organising at international circuits for 2008/2009. Six events are planned for each year (two in North America, two in Europe and two in Asia). In addition to these, the FXXs will also be participating, as per tradition, in the prestigious end-of-season Ferrari World Finals.

As happened in 2006/2007, the cars will be backed up at each event by a 15-member official team made up of engineers, electronics experts and mechanics capable of providing complete assistance to clients. Needless to say, the latter will still be able to organise their own private individual track sessions in their car as well.

Ferrari 430 Scuderia

mybb@mybb.ru (wreck) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 22:16:28 +0300

The Ferrari 430 Scuderia

Michael Schumacher will officially unveil the car at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

The new Ferrari 430 Scuderia will join the road-going V8 line-up alongside the F430 coupe and the F430 Spider. The 430 Scuderia is a truly high-performance 2-seater berlinetta which demonstrates how Ferrari's Formula 1 know-how is carried across to its production cars.

The new model is a special series based on the F430 and is aimed specifically at Ferrari's most passionate and sports-driving oriented clients. Development focused on light weight, minimum trimmings and innovative technology. All this to exalt the car's extremely high-performance and ability to thrill the driver.

The new car can count on an extremely low weight-to-power ratio of just 2.45 kg per hp thanks to a low dry weight of just 1250 kg - 100 kg less than the standard F430 � and to the naturally-aspirated 4308cc V8's 510 hp at 8500 rpm.

Superb performance both on and off the track is assured by a series of cutting-edge solutions. There is the latest F1 software - Superfast � which reduces gearchange times to just 60 milliseconds, and new traction control which, for the first time, combines the E-Diff electronic differential and the F1-Trac traction and stability control in a single integrated system.

Vehicle dynamics, control and performance thus represent the zenith of Ferrari's achievements in terms of developing road-certified sports cars.

The 430 Scuderia will be officially unveiled by Michael Schumacher on September 11 2007 at the IAA Motor Show in Frankfurt.

Ferrari F430 CS

mybb@mybb.ru (wreck) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 22:15:11 +0300

Scoop: Ferrari F430 CS

Ferrari is about to take the fight to homegrown rival Lamborghini's front door. This autumn it will unveil a hardcore F430 derivative as a riposte to the upstart Gallardo Superleggera. Seems like recent eco concept the Mille Chili wasn't a sign that Maranello had gone all soft after all...

The range-topping F430 - dubbed Challenge Stradale after its predecessor - is Ferrari back to business as usual. It'll be the hardest, fastest bottom-rung sports car it's ever made.

Details for new F430 Challenge Stradale are scarce at this stage, as Ferrari is keen to keep its powder dry for the planned unveil at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. But it looks certain that the fastest F430 will be sent on a weight-saving and body-building exercise.

Expect to see the regular V8 fettled to hike power from 483bhp to nearer the magical 500bhp mark, according to our sources. Maranello V8s have always been rev happy and this newcomer will be no different, with a raucous-sounding 9000rpm redline. Sounds like aural heaven or hell, depending on where you're sitting.

Lightweight materials will feature extensively; along with a weight-saving programme to trim away unnecessary equipment, Ferrari aims to shave around 100kg off the standard car's 1450kg kerb weight.

The F430 Challenge race car is a blueprint for the Challenge Stradale. It runs the same 483bhp 4.3-litre V8, but is 225kg lighter thanks to a lighter windscreen, carbonfibre intake plenum cover and a new exhaust.

Expect the new road car to share other race-spec details with the Challenge track special: carbon ceramic brakes, mechanical differential, track-honed suspension and revised electronics for more exciting handling.

Our spy photos reveal bigger air intakes on the car's nose and enlarged scoops on the car's flanks feeding the mid-mounted V8.

Earlier this year, Ferrari boss Luca di Montezemolo told CAR Online: 'Before the end of the year, we will have a new car. It will have F1 technology. It will embrace the know-how of weight reduction and high performance learnt from our F1 experience.'

One of the few question marks about the hardcore F430 is its name. Will it be called Challenge Stradale like its 360 predecessor? At this stage, nobody is committing and Ferrari has a history of introducing new names with new models. But the CS monicker is known to be one option on the table.

Expect the top F430 to go on sale in early 2008 for around £150,000.

Ferrari 612 Sessanta

mybb@mybb.ru (wreck) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 22:13:43 +0300

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Ferrari 612 Scaglietti: "Sessanta 60th anniversary edition"

612 Sessanta is produced on the body of the 612 Scaglietti introduced during the Geneva Motor-Show 2007, and thus comes with the full enhancement package used for the latter.

It is available only with F1 gearbox and provides the following features.

Special contents:

Exterior colours

The sixty cars shall be available alternatively in the following exterior colours:

* Two-colour special style:
o Grigio scuro (Colori Classici �50-�60) / Nero with grigio scuro side line
o Rubino Micalizzato / Nero Daytona with Rubino Micalizzato side line.

The following special colour features are added as well:

* Special colour of underbody black in technical black
* Colour treatment of the front headlight and rear bumper details in silver.

Exterior contents

* Electro-chromic panoramic roof panel with three transparency positions
* New monolithic and forged 19�/19� wheel rims
* Specific wheel cups
* Radiator grill with specific painted frame
* Chromium-plated rear grids with black chromed special exhaust pipes
* "612 Sessanta" emblem on front fender

Interior colours

Interiors are featured by a single-colour environment, with slightly contrasting stitching. Two choices are available.

* New Natural leather, �Terra Bruciata� coloured (exclusive colour on 612 Sessanta), including:
o Marrone carpets
o Interior details in Grigio Scuro (dash cross member, door panel details, tunnel plate)
o Black seat belts
o Terra Bruciata colour for steering wheel, dashboard, rear shell, and upper interior part

Those interiors are exclusively available with Grigio Scuro / Nero livery.

New Natural leather Charcoal coloured, including:

* Grigio Scuro carpets
* Interior details in Rubino Micalizzato (dash cross member, door panel details, tunnel plate)
* Grigio seat belts
* Charcoal colour for steering wheel, dashboard, rear shell, and upper interior part

Those interiors are exclusively available with Rubino Micalizzato / Nero Daytona livery.
Interior content

* Steering wheel with three-position Manettino and Engine Start button
* Exclusive upholstery style for seats, door panels and rear sides
* Specific central tunnel upholstered and fully equipped, with 2 cup-holding compartments and rear handles
* Four pockets on door panels, two of them closed
* Specially-styled instrument cluster
* Unique plate celebrating the 60-year anniversary on F1 gearbox plate
* Leather upholstered and equipped boot

Further contents

* CCM braking system with black calipers
* Bose Media System
* Rear Parking Camera
* TV Tuner
* Cruise Control

httpLand Rover Freelander 2 HST

mybb@mybb.ru (wreck) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 22:09:20 +0300

Land Rover Freelander 2 HST tops the range

Land Rover will introduce a new 'HST' derivative to complete the Freelander 2 range.

On-sale from March 2008, the Freelander 2 HST will be available from £31,990 on the road. Features include a Sports Styling Pack with front and rear bumper aprons, side sill mouldings and a rear roof spoiler. Other enhancements include 19 inch alloy 10-spoke wheels with shadowchrome finish, leather seat facings, privacy glass and metallic paint.

John Edwards, managing director for Land Rover UK commented: "The Freelander 2 HST has an impressive muscular stance when seen on the road. It will undoubtedly be appealing to our customers who require a dramatic visual impact without compromising on practicality."

He added: "In 2007 the Freelander 2 sold over 18,000 units in the UK which helped contribute to sales in the UK exceeding 50,000 last year for the first time in the company's 60 year history."

Also on-sale in March 2008 will be the Range Rover Sport HST. This new derivative in the 2008 Model Year line-up, comes equipped with 20 inch 'Stormer' wheels, rear spoiler, body coloured lower body and tailgate mouldings, electric sunroof, privacy glass and deep sculptured front and rear bumpers with integrated rectangular exhaust tailpipes. The 2008 HST is also equipped with Premium Leather seats as standard. Sports Leather and Leather Alcantara seats are available as a no cost option.

The Range Rover Sport HST is available with either the TDV8 diesel or Supercharged petrol engines from £59,895 on the road.

NAIAS 2008: Land Rover LRX Concept

mybb@mybb.ru (wreck) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 22:04:47 +0300

NAIAS 2008: Land Rover LRX Concept

* Bold evolution of Land Rover design - but still unmistakably a Land Rover
* A desirable, premium and more compact 4x4 which extends the definition of 'breadth of capability'
* Demonstrates Land Rover's seriousness about continued relevance and sustainability - with new technologies, lightweight design and environmentally-responsible materials
* Impeccable attention to detail and precision of execution underpins the LRX's premium credentials
* Public debut at NAIAS (Detroit Show) in January, to start gauging customer reaction

Land Rover unveils a vision of its future at the NAIAS (Detroit Show) in January 2008, with the world debut of the LRX concept - a bold evolution of Land Rover design that indicates the brand's progressive shift into new areas of the market, while remaining true to its core values. As the company prepares to celebrate its 60th anniversary during 2008, the three-door LRX, with its more compact size, lighter weight and sustainability focussed technologies, clearly addresses the needs of a changing world.

"The LRX concept delivers the powerful message that we are as serious about sustainability as we are confident about the continuing relevance and desirability of our vehicles," says Phil Popham, Land Rover's managing director. "The LRX is in every respect a Land Rover, but it's a very different Land Rover.

"LRX has unmistakable Land Rover design and the breadth of capability that you'd expect from our vehicles. But it carries those essentials into a segment where the brand has never been before, and with a proposed level of efficiency that would make it one of the cleanest vehicles in its class. It is Land Rover's way of affirming the brand's responsible approach to future product development. At this stage, LRX is purely a concept, designed to help us develop our thinking as well as gauge customer reaction - but this feels like a hugely exciting direction to take."

Compact and premium

The LRX is described as a cross-coupé, and dramatically extends the scope of what Land Rover stands for. Though smaller than Freelander 2, the LRX is conceived as a premium car, designed to appeal to new customers in the luxury and executive sector - those who want many of the benefits of a 4x4 and the visual presence of a larger vehicle, but in a more compact package.

\The first all-new Land Rover revealed since Gerry McGovern became the company's design director, LRX is a natural extension of the Land Rover range, complementing the existing models with a car that will help to define a new segment. Its many recognisable Land Rover design cues include bold new interpretations of the signature clamshell bonnet, the floating roof and the solid 'wheel-at-each-corner' stance.

"LRX is a design born out of passion for the brand, but it is different, relevant, engaging and exciting - because Land Rover has never built ordinary cars," says Gerry McGovern. "LRX has a highly desirable identity and the design alludes strongly to its capability, while clearly underlining our forward-looking philosophy - it's a Land Rover that would be comfortable on Bond Street or Fifth Avenue, but wouldn't flinch at getting its wheels dirty."

Its compact size is one of its greatest assets, which will appeal to anyone who wants the versatile ability of an agile 4x4 with the cachet of the Land Rover name. In addition, its lower weight and the reduced aerodynamic drag resulting from the smaller frontal area give significant gains in fuel efficiency and reduced C02 emissions.

The LRX concept also adopts intelligent power management systems and other technologies first shown by Land Rover in the Land_e concept in 2006. Further details of the LRX's powertrain and sustainability technologies will be released at the Detroit Show.

Extending 'breadth of capability'

The positioning of LRX could be described as moving subtly from traditional SUV to crossover, with its more car-like appearance and dynamics that are sportier and on-road biased. But while its character is underlined by excellent agility, handling and performance, the LRX also promises the widest breadth of capability in the class. To help achieve this, it has full-time four-wheel drive and Hill Descent Control, as well as a special version of Land Rover's acclaimed Terrain Response system, to optimise traction on difficult surfaces ranging from icy roads to wet grass, gravel and snow. But to reflect LRX's more on-road bias, Terrain Response also gains a new 'Eco' mode for lower emission urban driving.

The design of the LRX was developed entirely in-house, driven by a passion to create a car that truly represents Land Rover's future thinking. It has a very dynamic profile, with a distinctive taper to the floating roofline and a muscular shoulder running the length of the car, accentuated by the rising beltline. The glazing wraps right around the LRX, with no exposed pillars, creating a bold design graphic. The architectural structure of the upper body can be glimpsed through the windows and roof - echoing some of the best contemporary buildings.

Pushing the wheels out to the four corners helps give the car its purposeful stance, and its front-end design makes a powerful and instantly recognisable statement of Land Rover's identity. There are new interpretations of Land Rover's traditional clamshell bonnet, distinctive headlamps, jewel-like, tapering blade indicator clusters front and rear, and subtle side vents. The LRX's wheel arches are wide but softly integrated, housing 20-inch alloy wheels.

The carefully sculpted corners dramatically reduce the car's visual overhangs front and rear. With its perforated two-bar grille, door releases concealed in the car's shoulders, and graphic details 'punched out' of the smooth body surfaces rather than overlaid on them, the LRX is beautifully proportioned and elegantly simple - but very dramatic and distinctive.

Impeccable, premium interior

The interior of the LRX concept clearly demonstrates how a compact Land Rover can still be roomy, practical and versatile - and one with great sophistication. The impeccably executed cabin features a combination of soft leathers in rich tan and dark chocolate, with polished aluminium details.

The 'fast' sloping architecture of the centre console reflects the LRX's sporty dynamics, as does the distinctive binnacle over the instrument cluster. The electronic display uses 'floating' LCD graphics to create a three-dimensional look that can be personalised for different drivers, as well as interacting with the LRX's touch-screen display.

The instrument graphics present data in layers depending on their level of importance, to give maximum relevant information with minimum distraction. When appropriate, displayed information transfers between the main instrument cluster and the touch screen. And further adding to the LRX's involving personality, the different drivetrain modes are matched by changes in the cabin's background lighting colour - green in economy, red in sports and blue in standard mode.

Clever use of space

Although the LRX is compact, clever use of space makes it impressively roomy, and many neat design touches maximise its practicality. A second touch screen area gives a fully interactive display and control for the LRX's iPhone docking facility. On either side of the horizontally-split, power-operated tailgate, removable and power-adjustable speakers include an iPod docking station. There is also a coolbox, plus a bottle chiller that can be clipped to the lowered tailgate. This also has integral aluminium cupholders between two padded seating areas, for a new twist on the idea of a traditional Land Rover tailgate lunch.

Every interior design detail combines to maximise both actual space and the feeling of space. The clear roof is supported by a 'spider' frame running into the A-pillars, and the rear quarter pillars have glazed apertures for improved visibility and a lighter feel in the cabin.

The LRX's distinctive seats 'float' on individual plinths and have open frameworks to reinforce the impression of light, airy interior space - while also creating useful under-seat and under-floor stowage areas. The clever, powered mechanism of the seat backs maximises interior flexibility and helps create a large, flat storage area when needed, complete with multiple tie-down options. The generous load space and through-loading option also help accommodate bikes, skis or surfboards,

"Flexible load carrying capacity is fundamental to the concept of the LRX," says Gerry McGovern. "With this car, we've interpreted the idea of Land Rover 'breadth of capability' to be more about versatility than about ultimate off-roading. This meets the needs of the new customers that we believe would be attracted by this type of car. They will not only appreciate LRX's versatility, but will also recognise that this has been packaged with the highest levels of precision."

Sustainable product design

The structures of the seats and instrument panel are elegant enough to be left exposed - one novel approach that Land Rover's designers have taken to reduce vehicle weight.

Another example is replacing the glass for side windows and roof with polycarbonate, which is around 40% lighter.

Even the choice of the premium quality trim materials reflects Land Rover's deep thinking about sustainability, with vegetable-tanned leather (chromium-free, so better for recycling), extensive use of aluminium (both lightweight and readily recyclable), and carpeting made of felt from sustainable sources. And the luxurious vanilla-coloured 'fine suede' on the door inserts and headliner is a 100% recycled material made from used plastic bottles.

"We are determined to make sustainability a key element in our future product design and the way we do business, while still creating vehicles that have a strong emotional appeal as well as fulfilling people's practical needs," says Phil Popham. "No one technology delivers all the answers to whole life sustainability, but the LRX concept brings together some of the future ideas that interest us, into a car that we believe represents an exciting way forward for Land Rover."

BMW GINA Light Visionary Model

mybb@mybb.ru (wreck) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 18:59:48 +0300

The BMW GINA Light Visionary Model

Innovative approach and optical expression of creative freedom.

The key to affecting the development of tomorrow's mobility lies in our readiness to challenge what is established and in the ability to present new options. In order to meet these objectives, BMW Group Design taps into the potential of the GINA principle (Geometry and Functions In "N" Adaptions) which promotes innovative thinking by allowing maximum freedom of crea-tivity. GINA produces dramatically different solutions that affect the design and functionality of future cars. The GINA Light Visionary Model is an optical expression of selective, future-oriented concepts which provide an example of the manner and extent of this transformation.

BMW Group Design is not just interested in answering the question of how the car of the future will look but primarily wishes to explore the creative freedom it has to offer. Both of these aspects are affected by the requirements that future cars are expected to meet. All ideas that the GINA Light Visionary Model presents are therefore derived from the needs and demands of customers concerning the aesthetic and functional characteristics of their car and their desire to express individuality and lifestyle. The GINA Light Visionary Model has an almost seamless outer skin, a flexible textile cover that stretches across a moveable substructure. Individual functions are only revealed if and when they are needed.

With this model, BMW Group Design initiates a fundamental discourse about the characteristics that will affect the development of cars in future. It is therefore fundamentally different from concept cars, which reflect what is expected of them by implementing as many elements as possible in a future production model. In contrast, the GINA Light Visionary Model is a vision of future cars and serves as an object of research.
The seamless car body of the GINA Light Visionary Model.

Putting its visions of tomorrow's car into practice, BMW Group Design has developed a two-seater roadster with the unique dynamic proportions that are typical of its brand. The GINA Light Visionary Model takes the sculptural design that has already been established by a number of production cars to a new, unparalleled conclusion. The car's front and sides, including the doors, create one single uninterrupted, seamless whole that converges to form an optical as well as a structural unit.

In order to create this appearance, it was necessary to move beyond all previous conceptions of car body configuration, design and materials. Therefore, the GINA Light Visionary Model has dispensed with the usual body elements found on production vehicles such as front apron, bonnet, side panels, doors, wheel arches, roof, trunk lid and rear deck. Instead, a new structure with a minimum amount of components has taken their place. A special, highly durable and extremely expansion-resistant fabric material stretches across a metal structure. This new material offers designers a significantly higher level of freedom of design and functionality.

The body consists of only four elements. The largest component extends from the front of the vehicle to the edge of the windscreen and down the sides to the rear edge of the doors. The large side panels start at the front where the rocker panels emerge and run across the rear wheel arches into the rear. The fourth component is the central rear deck element.
An innovation breaks new ground: car with a flexible outer skin.

The innovation of a flexible outer skin breaks new ground in automotive engineering. This revolutionary solution opens up new design, production and functionality potential. It has a major impact on the interaction between driver and car and enhances it by offering a variety of entirely new options. Some elements of the substructure are moveable. The driver can move them by means of electro and electro-hydraulic controls. This will also change the shape of the outer skin, which can thus be adapted to suit the current situation, the driver's requirements and can also enhance the car's functional range.

The most striking example of this is the headlight design. In normal position, when the headlights are not active, i.e. when there is no necessity to illuminate the road, they are hidden under the special fabric cover. As soon as the driver turns on the lights, the contour of the front end changes. Activated by the metal structure that lies beneath it, the previously closed fabric cover opens to the right and left of the BMW kidney grille and reveals the BMW double head-lights. The rear and the rocker panels of the GINA Visionary Model can also adapt both the shape and function to the driving situation in hand. Both can change the shape of their outer skin to meet the driver's requirement for particularly dynamic motoring. This concept also takes into account a potential interaction with aerodynamic requirements. The design of the rear element allows for automatic lifting of the rear spoiler when a certain speed is reached, thus creating extra downforce on the rear axle at higher speeds. Due to the fact that the entire rear end, including the spoiler, is covered by a single sheet of material that reaches as far as the rear compartment of the interior, the homogeneous shape of the car's rear will not be affected by changes to the spoiler position. The mechanical system that moves the elements remains concealed.

The turn indicators and the taillights function without changes to the shape of the outer skin. Their position, however, is only revealed upon activation. The emitted light shines through the translucent fabric cover, which is permeable to light but not transparent.

The rocker panels demonstrate the formal versatility of the GINA Light Visionary Model with an equally impressive performance. The air duct can be optimised if required. A corresponding movement of the metal structure results in an adjustment of the rocker panel contour to allow for better airflow. At the same time, an additional protruding rocker panel line emerges. The aerodynamic optimization and the length of the line can be infinitely adapted to the driving situation at hand.
Special fabric cover ensures accurate reproduction of material folds.

The fact that the body surface is designed by means of a flexible fabric cover that stretches across a metal substructure means that the materials used must meet exacting requirements. Industrially produced hybrid fabric made from a stabilizing mesh netting support and an outer layer that is both water-repellent and resistant to high and low temperatures is suitable for this application.
Another essential material property is a maximum level of dimensional stability.

It must remain dimensionally stable irrespective of the temperature and air humidity it is exposed to even after severe and constant expansion. The dimen-sional stability helps retain the cover's surface tension for a long period of time. The movement of individual body elements creates accurately reproducible folds in the material. In its choice of material BMW Group Design was inspired by exterior and interior architecture. The expertise of seat pattern designers working for BMW Group Interior Design was successfully applied in order to cut the fabric webbing to size with maximum precision, determine the strategic position of attachment points and stretch the material. As a result, the surfaces are remarkably well balanced and due to the steady tension that is retained between any two clearly defined points, the lines are extremely accurate.

The special fabric is supported by a metal wire structure. At specific points, the high-strength metal is enhanced by carbon struts with a higher flexibility. They are used predominantly for round, moving contours with a particularly narrow radius.

The use of large fabric areas and the possibility of changing the surface contours by moving individual parts of the metal mesh that lies beneath it create a new relationship between form and function. If additional cooling air is required, the BMW kidney grille at the front of the vehicle can be opened. Because the overall surface of the special fabric covering remains unchanged, the contraction at the front of the vehicle, which is necessary for functional reasons, has to be compensated for by extra tension in other areas. The result is an optically attractive interaction between various body parts that introduces a new dimension to sculptural design. The widening of the kidney grille openings is activated by a movement of the metal mesh in the front area of the side panels. This creates more tension, which becomes visible by the emergence of an additional character line. The development of this new contour tenses the front of the vehicle: the kidney grille opens up.
Innovative body structure introduces new functional dimensions.

The high-precision fit of the material to the metal mesh also allows surface changes without slackening the tension. In this case, opening of the surface by moving the respective steel mesh struts creates precisely defined folds in the material. The GINA Light Visionary Model uses this option to display a function that corresponds to the opening of the hood in conventional vehicles. The material opens at the centre of the engine cover and can be folded to the far right and left along an opening line that is approximately 0.5 meters long, to allow the driver or mechanic access to the service points in the engine.

The filler caps of the engine oil, cooling and wiper water tanks are now open for servicing. Opening and closing is similar to the mechanism on a doctor's traditional medical bag, where clip-lock fasteners are held together in the middle by a rail.

The effect of the accurate surface material draping is even more impressive when the doors are opened. They swing both outwards and upwards. The high number of attachment points for the fabric cover positioned at the front of the car as well as at rear door edges creates a clearly defined and perfectly reproducible bulk of material. The draping is confined to the area between the front door edge and the side panel. Once the doors are closed, the folds in material disappear completely, leaving a perfectly smooth, stretched material surface.
The interior: discourse between driver and vehicle.

In the interior, variability, form and function are united in an inseparable connection. Whenever selected functions are accessed, the driver also changes the appearance of individual car elements. Again, the car's variability is adapted to suit the driver's needs. This creates a close interaction between driver and car in various different situations.

When the car is parked, the steering wheel and the round instruments - rev counter, speedometer and fuel gauge, which are vertically arranged on the centre console, are in idle position. This provides the driver with maximum comfort upon entering the car. Likewise, the seat only assumes its optimised functional position and shape if and when the driver sits down on it.

At that point, the headrest, previously firmly integrated into the seat's backrest, rises up automatically. At the same time, the steering wheel moves towards the driver and the instrument panel moves in the same direction. The information on the best driver-specific position of both steering column and seat is stored in the transducer. The engine is started simply by pushing the start/stop button.

The smooth transition of interior and exterior that is typical of BMW convertibles is reinterpreted by the GINA Light Visionary Model. The fabric that covers the rear deck runs into the interior and stretches across the driver and front passenger seats. The same material is also used for the surface design of the door trim and armrests. The shift lever in the centre console protrudes from tightly stretched textile bellows.

Driver and front seat passenger look out through a steeply inclined windscreen with the inside rear view mirror integrated into its frame. The side view mirrors are connected to the window frame. A narrow vertical dividing bar located at the center of the windscreen harks back to the typical windscreen division of traditional roadsters.
Innovative thinking put into practice: the GINA Light Visionary Model.

With the GINA Light Visionary Model, BMW Group Design focuses on a wide variety of issues that will determine the future conception of mobility.

It demonstrates the results of intense research into design, functionality, material and production. All ideas that have been put into practice in the GINA Light Visionary Model are derived from the same motivation: to challenge conventional and previously pursued solutions. The quest for alternative options has generated a wide variety of different requirements that potential solutions are expected to meet. The main focus is on providing general versatility and catering to customer requirements with sophisticated solutions. In accordance with the GINA principle, every functionality enhancement helps to create an emotional bond between the driver and their car. The new solutions also allow for the option of fast, flexible and cost-efficient production.

Every innovation demonstrated by the GINA Light Visionary Model also contributes to a clearly optimised resource management. As the quest for sustainability is one of the central issues of the GINA philosophy, new materials and manufacturing processes are expected to consume less resources and energy than previous solutions. Accordingly, the infrastructure used for manufacturing cars that are built in compliance with the GINA principle, has also changed. The manufacturing process requires fewer model-specific tools, and more highly-qualified skilled specialists. In all the areas referred to above, the GINA Light Visionary Model has provided inspiration for more intense research into ideas conceived as a result of maximum creative freedom.
Emotional appeal of roadster models and visionary prospect of future cars.

The solutions conceived as part of this philosophy are not considered sepa-rately, but have been pooled in an integrating vision - a vision that is expressed in the context of an outstanding, fascinating car. The basic features of a roadster with its eight-cylinder combustion engine below a stretched front that applies motive power to the rear wheels in order to move the car along the road defines this context. The synthesis of elementary visions and sheer driving pleasure expressed by the appearance of the GINA Light Visionary Model has a particularly striking emotional impact. Only the particular appearance of a fascinating car with its authentic design that creates a natural aesthetic look can bring to light the significance of the presented innovations.

The GINA Light Visionary Model builds a bridge between vision and reality by presenting a number of features with a striking similarity with those found on production vehicles. The Roadster rests on 20" alloy wheels in a cross-spoke design with a matt silver finish. The car body is comprised of an exceptionally light aluminum space frame. Two double tailpipes for the rear exhaust system, a third brake light integrated into the height-adjustable rear spoiler, an air splitter at the front and a rear-end diffuser in a carbon design also meet the standards of a production vehicle.

Nevertheless, the GINA Light Visionary Model retains its character as an object of research. It demonstrates the innovative force of BMW Group Design and its ability to challenge what is established, to find new solutions and to interpret these in the context of the car of the future at a high aesthetic level. This car is the logical continuation of the GINA principle in action. The GINA principle has already led to a variety of innovative concepts and has production vehicles in ways that are completely new and unprecedented by any other car manufacturer.

BMW Group Design uses concept cars such as the BMW concept car CS1 of 2002 as a step on the way towards putting a particular vision into practice. The CS1 was the first to present features such as the basic principle of the innovative control system - the BMW iDrive. Independently from all other innovative features shown by this concept car, the iDrive has become a series production feature.

Similarly, the GINA principle gave rise to an innovative manufacturing method that allows the manufacturers to decorate outer skin components that have been preformed by conventional methods with indi-vidually configured, high-precision contour lines prior to their reintegration into the manufacturing process. The Rapid Manufacturing method utilized for this process was first used during the production of hoods for the BMW Z4 M Roadster and the BMW Z4 M Coupe. In these models, the finished hood has received two distinctive contour lines prior to painting. These are not produced by a pressing tool but embossed into the metal with pin-point precision by a robot-guided steel pin.

Both examples illustrate the challenging route from a vision to a concept and to final series production that is not always straight and direct. With the GINA Light Visionary Model, BMW Group Design shows where this route begins. Not all innovations shown by the GINA Light Visionary Model will pro-ceed to the next stages. In its entirety, however, the visionary look into the future shows the extent to which the BMW Group employs creative potential in its endeavor to respond to the challenges of tomorrow's mobility.

BMW Concept X1

mybb@mybb.ru (wreck) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 18:54:18 +0300

Paris 2008: BMW Concept X1

Once again the successful history of BMW X models is opening up the door for further inspiration in the development of innovative vehicle concepts: The BMW Concept X1 offers all the thrill of agile and versatile mobility also beyond the beaten track in a new segment of vehicles.

Proudly presenting this new Concept Car, BMW is offering an outlook at the world�s fi rst Sports Activity Vehicle in the premium compact segment. Through its design alone, this new concept model clearly expresses all the strengths and qualities of such a vehicle, the BMW Concept X1 exuding a strong touch of agility and versatility both in its driving qualities and practical use. And at the same time the Concept Car clearly reveals the stylish elegance of this fi ve-door as well as its modern function.

Creating this unique Concept Car, BMW is catering for the demands of a modern target group in search of an up-to-date automobile meeting both the challenges of everyday traffi c and the personal needs of many purchasers for an active lifestyle and a versatile driving experience. The BMW Concept X1 expresses that very special sheer driving pleasure so typical in this unique form of a BMW X model combined with a high standard of all-round functionality. So now these qualities are for the fi rst time being carried over to a vehicle in the premium compact segment.

Ongoing innovation in the Sports Activity segment established by BMW.

As the founder of the Sports Activity Vehicle segment, BMW has already proven its outstanding competence in developing innovative vehicle concepts. Indeed, the German premium car maker fi rst established its position as the leader in innovation in this segment � a position BMW still holds today � in 1999 through the presentation of the fi rst-generation BMW X5.

In a market segment previously dominated by conventional offroaders, the BMW X5, through its outstanding dynamic driving qualities alone, set new standards right from the beginning.

Now in its second generation, the BMW X5, through its superior driving qualities and wide range of practical use as well as its luxurious interior ambience, still sets the standard for vehicles in its category to this very day.

The exceptional potential offered by this new segment of vehicles also enabled BMW at a very early point to carry over the attractive features of this Sports Activity Vehicle to other market segments. In the guise of the BMW X3, for example, outstanding agility on all kinds of terrain also proved to be a huge success in the segment below the BMW X5. Indeed, the BMW X3 was the fi rst and for many years the only vehicle in this segment to come from a premium manufacturer, with worldwide sales of the BMW X3 now amounting to more than 500,000 units.

The ongoing expansion of the BMW X model range is likewise the result of the unique, innovative power offered by the world�s most successful manufacturer of premium cars. The BMW X6 launched this year, for example, is the world�s fi rst Sports Activity Coupé to successfully enter the market.

This unique model combining the dynamic lines of a Coupé with the superior power and cultivated robustness of a BMW X model, continues the emphasis on dynamic driving qualities originally initiated with the BMW X5, maintaining BMW�s philosophy most clearly and convincingly. Indeed, BMW has once again, through the BMW X6, set the foundation for a brand-new type of vehicle reaching additional target groups now once again thrilled by the BMW X model concept accounting in the meantime for sales of more than 1.2 million units the world over.

BMW X models: unique concept, superior technology, outstanding quality.

The global success and great appeal of BMW�s X models results not only from the precise and target group-oriented development of this vehicle concept, but also from the implementation of typical BMW features in this category. Hence, the particular thrill and unique style of every BMW X model forms a perfect match with uncompromising premium quality.

The unique driving characteristics of a BMW X model result not just from the concept, but also from BMW�s worldwide leadership in the area of drive systems. And last but certainly not least in this context, the huge innovative power of the BMW Group comes out clearly also in the equipment and features of BMW�s X models featuring superior suspension technology and driver assistance systems as well as a supreme standard of safety and comfort.

Yet another essential factor is that every BMW X model combines this exclusive range of qualities with a level of effi ciency quite unparalleled in the respective segment: In their balance of performance and fuel consumption, BMW�s X models achieve a standard generally far superior to comparable models built by the competition.

Again last but defi nitely not least, the modern and up-to-date character of BMW�s X models comes out clearly through their stable value, non-partisan market studies regularly confi rming the lasting value of the BMW X5 and the BMW X3 as pre-owned cars.

All this sets the foundation for BMW�s entry into another market segment where the BMW Concept X1 already reveals the perspectives involved. The Compact Car clearly shows which features are to be expected of a BMW X model in the segment of premium compact vehicles. Through its de - sign alone, the new model clearly belongs to the range of BMW X vehicles � while at the same time it offers all these features in truly individual style representing the design language so typical of BMW.

The Concept Car clearly confi rms BMW�s claim to offer maximum driving pleasure and effi ciency, versatility and functionality, as well as safety, comfort and quality also in the premium compact segment. And with all these factors already being largely considered and taken into account in the BMW Concept X1, it is fair to say that an appropriate production model will see the light of day within just one year.

The BMW X1: authentic transition of the BMW X model concept into a new vehicle segment.

In its design and driving characteristics, every BMW X model bears out the unmistakable DNA of this kind of vehicle, at the same time showing an individual rendition of the brand and the features typical of the concept. This clearly ensures the authentic transition of the brand values and characteristic features of a BMW X model into each market segment.

The BMW Concept X1 naturally lives up to this demanding standard and claim, the Concept Car clearly standing out as a BMW X model from every angle, despite its body dimensions smaller than a BMW X6, a BMW X5, and a BMW X3. At the same time the design of the new car establishes typical BMW features again refl ecting the specifi c characteristics of the premium compact segment and generating new momentum in the appreciation and perception of vehicles in this class.

Introducing the BMW Concept X1, BMW is taking on the leading role also in the premium compact class. For the fi rst time the characteristics of a Sports Activity Vehicle are being carried over authentically into this market segment, creating the concept of a vehicle which, in an urban environment, ensures the highest conceivable level of freedom and spontaneous activity.

Indeed, the BMW Concept X1 presents mobility options never seen before in this segment. The new model offers versatility and agility in a compact rendition, thus providing a very appropriate interpretation of the sheer driving pleasure so typical of a BMW X model in our current day and age.

Measuring 4,457 millimetres or 175.5" in length, the BMW Concept X1 is 108 millimetres or almost 4.3" shorter than the BMW X3. The wheelbase of the BMW Concept X1, in turn, measures 2,760 mm or 104.4".

Through its proportions and four doors together with a large tailgate, the Concept Car hints towards a very generous feeling and experience of space. In addition, the clear design and shape of the vehicle bears testimony to a high level of function meeting all the driver�s and passengers� requirements in everyday traffi c. And last but not least, the BMW Concept X1 combines all these features with the self-confi dent elegance so typical of a premium vehicle. Through these qualities alone, therefore, the BMW Concept X1 is destined to become the trendsetter for a modern style of urban mobility clearly pointing into the future.

Front-end design: dynamic lines, characteristic emphasis on width. The sculptural lines of the new model make the BMW Concept X1 a truly exceptional highlight in the premium compact segment with all the features and qualities of a BMW X model. The front end, the side and rear merge smoothly into one another, their various surfaces forming one whole and striking lines creating a smooth and fl owing link between the individual elements of the body.

Design features typical of the brand additionally emphasise the unmistakable look and impact of the vehicle, the upright BMW kidney grille, dual round headlights cut off at the top, the large, almost square wheel cutouts, the black band stretching around the lower section of the vehicle, the distinctive contour line along the side and the horizontal lines at the rear again clearly confi rming that this concept car is a genuine X model from BMW.

The powerful stature of a BMW X model comes out clearly in new design at the front end of the BMW Concept X1. The DNA typical of BMW X is also to be found in the strikingly contoured engine compartment lid and the structure of the upright BMW kidney grille with its extra-wide bars positioned far apart from one another at the outside on the BMW Concept X1, thus symbolising the robust nature of the vehicle.

Through their sharply cut �eyelids�, the dual round headlights so typical of BMW offer a clear view and focus, white-coloured horizontal covers at the top enhancing this effect to an even higher standard.

Innovative surface design highlighting the vehicle�s striking features.

Yet another innovative design feature is the three-dimensional surrounds on the headlights. This particular design element to be admired on the BMW Concept X1 and refl ected by the surrounds on the headlights and the side window graphics highlights the superior technical character of the headlight units with their clear glass look in a very convincing manner. Again refl ecting the typical style of a BMW X model, the foglamps are positioned far to the outside, just above the air intake scoop.

The robust character of the BMW Concept X1 is further emphasised by the car�s underfl oor protection. This protection unit bearing clear reference to the use of the vehicle off the beaten track, takes on a particularly sophisticated and elegant style through its silver paintwork � and at the same time the front frame around this protection element forms the lower surround on the air intake.

Together with another silver crossbar extending across the entire width of the air intake, this forms two contrasting horizontal lines giving the vehicle an even more powerful and wider look.

The surface design of the powerfully contoured engine lid is characterised by six striking contour lines moving towards one another in a V-shape at the front of the vehicle. The two inner lines lead to the BMW kidney grille where they almost meet one another, while the two outer contour lines extend in the opposite direction from the front end of the engine compartment lid all the way to the side section of the vehicle where they continue into the shoulder lines extending all the way to the back. Again, this particular fl ow of lines emphasises the sculptural design of the BMW Concept X1 connecting all body elements with one another.

Side view: an especially sleek look combined with the features typical of a BMW X model.

Both the unmistakable proportions of the BMW Concept X1 and the newly interpreted features of a BMW X model come out clearly at the side of the car. The silhouette of this compact fi ve-door is particularly sleek and stretchedout, giving the entire vehicle a very sporting and agile look. And at the same time the raked tailgate adds a coupé-like appearance.

With its short front body overhang, the waistline slightly lower around the A-pillars, the large wheel arches with their almost square contours and the black plastic protection panels on the lower level of the body, the BMW Concept X1 comes with all the typical features of a BMW X model also from the side.

Another characteristic highlight is the visibly low centre of gravity bearing clear reference on the BMW X models to the harmonious interaction of the front and rear wheels in conveying the power of the engine to the road. On the BMW Concept X1 this connection is further highlighted by a crease line on the lower edge of the plastic frame running along the entire length of the sidesills fi nished in silver. The dynamic, powerful surface modelling of this element provides an attractive interplay of light and shade, again accentuating � like the strong, sturdy and sophisticated underfl oor protection front and rear � the refi ned but robust nature of this new Concept Car. The surrounds on the side windows come in a particularly elegant threedimensional look taking up the design language already to be admired on the headlights and rear lights. Again, this expresses the dynamic contours of the window graphics including the contour-swing at the bottom of the D-pillars well known as the �Hofmeister kick�.

Striking fl ow of lines with that characteristic sweep.

The BMW Concept X1 offers a highly attractive interplay of concave and convex surfaces between the characteristic lines to be admired at the side. The interaction of light and shade created in this way gives the entire vehicle a powerful and agile look, the shoulder line extending out of the engine compartment lid and fl owing along the side of the car emphasising its dynamic character.

The lower character line, as it is called, running parallel to the side-sills, creates a unique, exceptional touch in the side view of the BMW Concept X1. This character line starts around the direction indicator at the side, initially moving down slightly and then striving upwards fi rst quite moderately and then with increasing dynamism before tapering out in the rear door. In its sweeping fl ow of power, the character line ends exactly at the window surround on the window graphics with its �Hofmeister kick�, thus creating the impression of one complete contour extending over the entire side view of the vehicle.

The fl ow of this character line fi rst rising up moderately and then in an increasingly dynamic process offers a particular highlight in design also refl ected on the engine compartment lid, on the contours around the rear lights and the lines on the side mirrors, and thus adding yet another striking touch to the BMW Concept X1. Both the robust character and the variable functionality of the BMW Concept X1 are highlighted by the strong and sturdy roof railing extending far back to the rear and ending in the air fl ow spoiler. Finished in Liquid Silver, the roof railing is indeed yet another feature emphasising the refi ned look and premium character of the entire vehicle.

The BMW Concept X1 comes on 19-inch light-alloy rims in high-quality innovative ten-spoke design again characteristic of BMW�s X models. The newly designed, twin-colour wheels add a special touch of urban sportiness and agility in particularly elegant style. The narrow spokes on the rims, in turn, are twisted slightly to the outside, while the rim bars are cut off at the front, proudly presenting the bright silver colour of polished aluminium. The side fl anks and the rim hump, fi nally, are fi nished in Dark Grey to provide a particularly sporting contrast.

Striking rear view with innovative lights technology.

Like the front view, the rear view of the BMW Concept X1 is again characterised by the underfl oor protection fi nished in silver. The rear frame of the broad protection element creates a contrasting colour highlight also at this point, again emphasising the impressive width of the vehicle. In their design, the rear lights combine those unique shapes so typical of BMW and truly innovative technology. The light clusters come with BMW�s characteristic L-contours proudly boasting their typical shape also at night.

This unique night design is further highlighted by BMW�s innovative technology, with consistently fl uorescent, red-glowing rows of lights fed by LED light units serving as the light source. The result is a genuinely homogeneous fl ow of light with a powerful signalling effect on energy consumption signifi cantly lower than with conventional lights.

Here again, the rear frame of the extra-wide protective element adds an attractive position of the rear light clusters moved far to the outside into the rear side panels. The rows of lights formed by fl uorescent tubes continues all round into the side of the vehicle where the lights move up slightly, thus emphasising the L-shaped contours of the light clusters even more distinctly.

Again, this three-dimensional look contributes to the characteristic night design of the BMW Concept X1.

Last but certainly not least, the paintwork on the BMW Concept X1 emphasises the innovative, modern and sophisticated character of the vehicle, the new Meridian Gold Metallic paintwork colour accentuating the youthful and dynamic look of the Concept Car. Indeed, this strong golden-yellow fi nish is truly fascinating both in the glow of headlights from other vehicles and in the bright sunshine, creating a highly effective play of light and adding additional momentum to the artistically chiselled surfaces of the BMW Concept X1.

Audi TT clubsport quattro

mybb@mybb.ru (wreck) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 18:52:54 +0300

The Audi TT clubsport quattro

Open-top driving machine with over 300 hp

* Audi presents its showcar at the Worthersee Tour
* Speedster-like body with dynamic accents
* Racing-like engine and suspension performance

An open cockpit, an engine producing more than 220 kW (300 hp) and a host of technologies borrowed from the world of motorsports � the Audi TT clubsport quattro is an uncompromising driving machine. Audi is presenting an updated version of the spectacular showcar and sensation of 2007 at the Worthersee Tour, the big meet for Audi and VW enthusiasts in Reifnitz (Kärnten), Austria, from May 21 to 25.

Purism at a premium level � this was the goal that the designers and engineers set themselves for the Audi TT clubsport quattro. The low windshield is extremely flat. The A-pillars are nearly invisible, making the continuous window strip appear to be a single casting. Instead of the compartment for the soft top there are two humps behind the passenger compartment � the lines of the showcar painted in Suzuka Gray, pearl effect are intensely evocative of a speedster. Mounted in front of the humps are two massive rollover bars, which together with the strong A-pillars protect the driver and passenger if the car should roll over.

The front end is dominated by the powerful single-frame grill painted in high-gloss black. Beneath the headlamps, which feature a strip of LED daytime running lights, are large air inlets covered by horizontally split black grills.

A distinctive spoiler lip optimizes downforce. When viewed from the side, the sharp contours in the sill area are every bit as striking as the boldly accentuated wheel wells, which house impressive (polished) 9x19 inch wheels shod with 255/35 tires. The track was widened by 66 millimeters (2.60 inches) versus the production TT. The rear bumper is designed as a diffuser. The fascia between the two large tailpipes of the stainless steel exhaust system emphasizes the horizontal lines and makes the car look even wider from behind.

The purist style of the exterior carries over to the interior of the Audi TT clubsport quattro. The newly designed sill area emphasizes the width of the vehicle. The driver and passenger sit in racing bucket seats that offer excellent support even in extreme driving situations � on the race track, for example.

Typical Audi: aluminum in the interior

Typical for Audi is the generous use of aluminum in the interior of the showcar. The clubsport quattro sports a high-grip version of the flat-bottomed steering wheel from the production TT with aluminum shift paddles. The door pull handle and door opener are also made of aluminum, and their cut-out appearance emphasizes the lightweight design character of the concept car. The pedals also shine with aluminum.

The second distinctive feature of the interior of the TT clubsport quattro is the color orange. Leather in this color provides bright highlights to the arm rests, the sides of the center tunnel, the backs of the bucket seats and the instrument cowl. The orange and white graphics of the instrument cluster clearly distinguishes it from its counterpart in the production model.

The TT clubsport quattro is a true sports car, and technology borrowed directly from the world of motorsports emphasizes this character. Even more power has been coaxed out of the 2.0 TFSI engine � the turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine breaks the magic 300 hp barrier. The exhaust system was designed to be particularly easy-breathing, and a powerful racing sound exudes from the oval tailpipes.

Audi high-tech: S tronic und quattro

The two-liter engine delivers its full power to an S tronic transmission. Thanks to its dual clutch, gear changes occur extremely quickly without interrupting the flow of power and thus go virtually unnoticed. The driver can change gears manually using the shift lever or the paddles on the steering wheel, or can choose a fully automatic mode. The quattro permanent all-wheel drive system transfers the power to all four wheels.

The powerful brake system from the new Audi TTS provides the stopping power. Its ventilated discs measure 340 millimeters (13.39 inches) up front and 310 millimeters (12.20 inches) at the rear.

The Audi TT clubsport quattro is a purist driving machine combining the performance of a sports car with the unique design language of Audi. Small-series production of this model cannot be ruled out.

Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro

mybb@mybb.ru (wreck) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 18:51:04 +0300

The Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro

Audi, the inventor of TDI, blazes a trail in the field of engine manufacture. At the 27th annual Lake Worther Tour being held at the end of May in the Austrian province of Carinthia, the brand behind the four rings is showcasing this technology's potential with a sensational study. The two-liter TDI unit under the bonnet of the Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro delivers 165 kW (224 hp) and musters up 450 Nm (331.90 lb-ft) of torque � the sort of pulling power normally associated with a sports car. The show car races from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 6.6 seconds and attains a top speed of 240 km/h (149.13 mph).

The Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro projects its power with supreme confidence � both acoustically courtesy of its sonorous exhaust and visually with a series of exclusive parts mounted on the body and in the interior. Exterior components such as the large DTM-look rear spoiler and the bolt-on wheel arch extensions give the car a dynamic air, while the racing bucket seats and open gear lever gate in aluminum form the highlights of the interior.

The show car is a true high-tech sports car. The drive power is directed to the 20-inch wheels via a six-speed transmission and the quattro all-wheel-drive system. At the front wheels, stopping power is provided by six-piston brake calipers and ceramic discs. The Audi drive select driving dynamics system allows the driver to vary at will the throttle response characteristic, the exhaust sound, the level of power assistance for the steering, the cut-in thresholds for the ESP stabilization system, as well as the operating mode of the dampers. The dampers deploy Audi magnetic ride technology, enabling them to react to changes in the driving situation with lightning speed.

Audi � the trailblazer of engine manufacture

Audi is the trailblazer of engine manufacture. Since their debut back in 1989, the TDI engines have long since established themselves helped by their powerful, refined and efficient character. The triumphant advance that the diesel-powered Audi R10 TDI racing car has been enjoying for two years now in the Le Mans 24 Hours and in the American Le Mans Series is clear testimony to this technology's tremendous potential.

The engine in the R8 TDI Le Mans study is closely related to the diesel race engine technically speaking � the high-performance sports car is equipped with a six-liter V12 power unit whose output of 368 kW (500 hp) and torque of 1,000 Nm (737.56 lb-ft) are good for a top speed comfortably in excess of 300 km/h (186.41 mph). The R8 TDI can also be seen at the Lake Worther Tour, as the major annual gathering of horsepower-happy Audi and VW enthusiasts is known. Audi has already transferred the superior power of the TDI engines into its road-going cars: the TT and TT Roadster both feature a mighty two-liter unit generating 125 kW (170 hp) and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of peak torque, coupled to the quattro all-wheel-drive system. As is plain to see, Audi continues to build on its lead in the technology stakes.
At a glance

Engine

* Four-cylinder TDI with common-rail injection system
* Displacement of 1968 cc, output of 165 kW (224 hp) and torque of 450 Nm (331.90 lb-ft)
* Optimized exhaust system, sonorous soundtrack
* 0 � 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 6.6 seconds, top speed 240 km/h (149.13 mph)

Power transmission

* High-efficiency six-speed manual transmission with a lightweight casing, open gear lever gate made of aluminum
* quattro all-wheel drive with extremely fast-action multi-plate clutch

Chassis

* Four-link rear suspension for dynamic handling and good comfort
* Power steering with highly efficient electric drive
* Wheels measuring 9 J x 20, tire size 265/30
* Six-piston brake calipers and ceramic discs at the front wheels
* Audi drive select driving dynamics system with Audi magnetic ride adaptive damper control

Body and interior

* Length 4,254 millimeters (167.48 inches), width 1,825 millimeters (71.85 inches), height 1,385 millimeters (54.53 inches)
* Motorsport-look design, large rear spoiler
* Racing bucket seats and extra aluminum components in interior

The concept

A TDI from Audi is more than just another diesel � it is, in fact, a dynamic power unit and a rich source of driving pleasure. At the 27th annual Lake Worther Tour being held in the Austria province of Carinthia from May 21-25, Audi is demonstrating the potential of TDI technology with a very special concept study: the Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro is powered by an engine delivering a whole 165 kW (224 hp) from its displacement of two liters. And with a torque of 450 Nm (331.90 lb-ft), it endows the premium compact model with the pulling power of a sports car.

The Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro qualifies as an uncompromising sports machine in all other technical respects too. A six-speed transmission channels the engine's power to the quattro all-wheel drive. 20-inch wheels keep the drive force glued to the road; behind the wheels at the front can be found brake disks made from carbon-fiber-reinforced ceramic. Using the Audi drive select driving dynamics system the driver is able to adjust the throttle response and exhaust sound characteristics, the steering's power assistance, the ESP control and the damper characteristics as desired.

The dynamic image presented by the scintillating A3 study is rounded off by spectacular body styling and a high-class, sporty interior. Parts such as bolt-on wheel arch extensions and a large rear spoiler lend lasting impact to the exterior's looks; the interior is dominated by the racing bucket seats in the front and the open aluminum gear lever gate.
The design

The Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro has a distinctly confident air about it. Sensational styling instantly sets the three-door show car apart from the standard production Audi A3. It measures 4,254 millimeters (167.48 inches) millimeters/2.36 inches), but just 1,385 millimeters (54.53 inches) high, � a reduction in height of 36 millimeters (1.42 inches) in spite of the large wheels. The track width measures 1,568 millimeters (61.73 inches) at the front (+ 34 millimeters/1.34 inches) and 1,553 millimeters (61.14 inches) at the rear (+ 46 millimeters/1.81 inches).

The design team has kitted out the Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro with a whole array of new exterior parts to give it an extremely sharp and dynamic look � almost like a racing car. The paint finish is also a picture of vibrancy: the engine hood, tailgate and roof are Ibis White and the flanks Brilliant Red, while a large white figure "8" is emblazoned across each door in reference to the year 2008. The color scheme is an allusion to the colors of the Austrian national flag.

The single-frame grille has grown slightly in width, which also entailed modifications to the engine hood. The grille's bars � including pronounced vertical sections � have a high-gloss black finish. The bi-xenon headlamp assemblies are embellished by LED daytime running lights and wings. The front bumper incorporates large, square-edged air intakes, together with a blade section that juts a long way forwards and is slightly raised in the centre.

The modified front fenders feature bolt-on wheel arch extensions. The doors and the rear side sections � again with muscular wheel arch paneling � have been given a new, boldly contoured flare at the bottom. This blends together harmoniously with the door sills, which have themselves been restyled. The exterior mirror housings, with their arms that look to have been crafted by the wind, are likewise new. The tinted glass used for the rear windows gives the model yet greater visual presence.

The tail of the Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro sports a dark grey diffuser. It is a variant on the design of the front blade, and incorporates the two large circular tailpipes of the separate exhaust branches. Modifications have also been carried out to the tail light assemblies. The most striking impression, however, is made by the spoiler atop the rear window that bears a close resemblance to the part featured on the new A4 race car from the German Touring Car Masters (DTM).

Inside the Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro, the eye is immediately caught by the illuminated door sill trims with their "TDI Power" badging. Awaiting the driver and front passenger are anatomically shaped bucket seats, just like those found in motor racing cars. The rear seats sport the same upholstery design, with special foam padding used to sculpture them into roomy and comfortable individual seats.

The driver takes hold of an elegantly styled steering wheel with a flat-bottomed rim that is reminiscent of the Audi R8 high-performance sports car. The scales of the dials are colored white, the monitor for navigation and entertainment together with its control panel stems from the R8. The jet-style air outlets have multi-way adjustable louvers, and the usual buttons in the center console have given way to classic, sporty toggle switches. The bars underneath the console are covered in leather, the door handles have been milled hollow to save weight. The door linings and floor mats have been newly designed.
The drive train

The high-performance TDI under the bonnet of the Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro is like nothing that has gone before it. From its displacement of just 1,968 cc, it summons up an output of 165 kW (224 hp). Torque � the true measure of effortless motoring ability � peaks at an exhilarating 450 Nm (331.90 lb-ft), which is on tap from just 1,750 rpm; in other words, the very bottom of the rev range. As for in-gear flexibility, the diesel model leaves its gasoline-powered rivals standing.

The mighty TDI bestows the Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro � which tips the scales at just 1,475 kilograms (3251.82 lb) � with pulling power befitting of a sports car. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) is over in a fleeting 6.6 seconds and the speedometer needle keeps rising all the way to 240 km/h (149.13 mph).

The four-valve sports engine is smart too; it responds spontaneously to the throttle and pampers the occupants with the low-vibration running of its mechanics. On an acoustic level, however, it proudly proclaims its abilities for all to hear: the exhaust system is a new development, with controllable resonance chambers on both tailpipes to amplify the rich, sonorous sound.

The engineers took as a basis the undersquare engine (bore x stroke = 81.0 x 95.5 millimeters) with an output of either 103 kW (140 hp) or 125 kW (170 hp), depending on the configuration, and added to it an optimized turbocharger. The advanced design of its blades allows it to supply more air; as in the series-production version, the variable geometry of the turbine's blades ensures spontaneous response.

The 2.0 TDI, which is managed by one of the most sophisticated control units currently available on the market, is brimming with high tech. Fuel injection is handled by a common-rail system with piezoelectric injectors and eight-hole nozzles. The high-precision metering of as many as five injections of fuel per power stroke has the effect of audibly reducing the noise level. The system operates at a pressure of 1,800 bar � this results in extremely fine atomization of the fuel which, together with the revised piston geometry, makes the combustion process a highly efficient one.

The engine's intake manifold houses swirl flaps that generate a tumbling action in the inflowing air; electric motors regulate the flaps' position so that this tumbling motion is always perfectly suited to the current load and engine speed. Two balancer shafts in the engine reduce the degree of vibration in the crank drive. The drive unit for the belt that propels the two camshafts has also been reworked with a view to improving the engine's acoustics.

The engine: low on emissions, high on efficiency

In its high-performance 165 kW (224 hp) version, the 2.0 TDI unit is still able to make use of a high proportion of recirculated and sharply cooled exhaust gas to achieve cooler combustion with lower oxygen levels � this brings about a substantial reduction in untreated nitrogen oxide emissions. The four-cylinder power unit already complies with the limits of the Euro 5 emissions standard, which is not due to come into force until September 2010 and whose foremost aim is to cut NOx emissions.

The ultra-efficient two-liter engine attains a power-to-displacement ratio of 83.8 kW (113.8 hp) per liter, and torque-to-displacement ratio of 228.7 Nm (168.68 lb-ft) per liter � figures which comparable gasoline engines are simply unable to match.

The Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro has been designed strictly in accordance with the principle of maximum efficiency. Power is transferred by a compact, transverse-mounted six-speed transmission whose casing is made from lightweight magnesium. The short-throw gear lever can be moved swiftly and precisely through a classic open gate made of aluminum. The transmission ratios have been adjusted and the components reinforced to make allowance for the TDI engine's extremely high performance.

The engine's power is transferred to the road with virtually zero losses thanks to the quattro all-wheel drive. The system's key component is a multi-plate clutch which is positioned at the rear, thereby further optimizing the weight distribution. Under normal driving conditions, the electronically controlled and hydraulically operated clutch directs the engine's drive power to the front wheels; whenever necessary, however, an infinitely adjustable proportion of the propulsive force can be diverted rearwards.

When altering the power split, the plates inside the clutch are subjected to high oil pressure, pushing them together � a procedure which is completed in a matter of milliseconds thanks to a newly designed pressure reservoir for the pump. The quattro drive constitutes the perfect power transmission system for the mighty two-door model, significantly enhancing traction, handling characteristics, stability and straight-line running, whatever the weather.
The chassis

The Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro comes equipped with a sports suspension that is more than capable of handling the formidable power. The front suspension � a classic McPherson layout � is pivoted on a light, high-strength aluminum subframe. A rack-and-pinion steering system with a direct ratio produces a sensation of close contact with the road. Power assistance is generated by an electromechanical drive unit for high efficiency, and its level decreases as the speed increases.

The rear suspension comprises four links per wheel which fulfill all manner of tasks. The trailing links absorb the propulsive and braking forces. As an aid to ride comfort, their configuration is relatively soft. The connections to the three transverse links, on the other hand, are rigid in order to direct transverse forces into the body with absolute precision. In this instance, the coil springs and shock absorbers are also kept separate from one another. The set-up is decidedly firm, while the body has been lowered by 36 millimeters (1.42 inches) compared to the standard production version. The Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro rides on impressive ten-spoke wheels measuring 9 J x 20, which are in turn shod with size 265/30 ZR 20 tires.

Whereas the brakes at the rear wheels were borrowed from the series-production A3, their counterparts on the front would not be out of place on a supercar: six-piston calipers exert a vice-like grip on brake discs measuring 356 millimeters (14.02 inches) in diameter. The discs themselves are made of a material which has been of tremendous value to the aerospace industry, consisting of high-strength carbon fibers embedded in hard silicon carbide. They have a lightweight construction, can withstand extreme levels of strain, are corrosion-free and have a service life in the region of 300,000 km (approx. 186,400 miles).
Motoring à la carte with Audi drive select

The Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro boasts yet another highlight in the form of the Audi drive select driving dynamics system. This system has control over a number of technical components that mould the motoring experience. By simply pushing a button, the driver can determine at will whether these components should work in the comfort mode, the dynamic mode or even the "Individual" mode that allows partial manual programming of the way in which they interact.

In the show car, Audi drive select influences the engine's throttle response, the sound from the exhaust system, the power assistance for the steering, the cut-in thresholds for the ESP stabilization system, as well as the damper characteristics. This is where the adaptive damping system Audi magnetic ride comes in: a magneto-rheological fluid circulating in the shock absorber pistons alters its viscosity � and, by consequence, the damping characteristics � in an instant when a voltage is applied.

The interplay between all these cutting-edge technologies makes the Audi A3 TDI clubsport quattro a thrilling road machine that is tremendously fun to drive. It darts into bends with exceptional spontaneity, and corners with stolid stability and at high speed, guided with unfailing precision by the sensitive steering. Its handling limits are extremely high, with just a minimal amount of understeer kicking in as the limits are approached. A sense of effortless, assured controllability is a key virtue of the A3 study � just as it is on all Audi models.
TDI engines � the superior drive force

Power, refinement and efficiency � ever since they first made their debut in 1989, the TDI engines from Audi have been synonymous with a sophisticated and smart form of sportiness, blazing a trail for the rest of the motor industry to follow. The triumphant advance that the diesel-engined Audi R10 TDI racing car has been enjoying for two years now on race tracks around the world has delivered a powerful demonstration of its potential.

The R10 TDI has been causing a sensation since spring 2006, with its twelve-cylinder diesel powerplant ushering in a new era in the world of motor racing. The 5.5-litre TDI develops in excess of 1,100 Nm (881.32 lb-ft) � a torque figure that positively eclipses its gasoline-powered competitors. Its output of 650 hp translates into a top speed of around 330 km/h (205.05 mph).

One of the fortes of the R10 TDI is its low fuel consumption. And fewer fuel stops means a higher average speed � the car's high efficiency was one of the key factors in its two successive victories at the Le Mans 24 Hours. Frank Biela (Germany), Emanuele Pirro (Italy) and Marco Werner (Germany) won in 2006 and 2007 in emphatic style. It is a similar story in the American Le Mans Series, where the diesel race car bearing the four Audi rings has racked up a string of successes, easily securing the constructors' title in the large LMP 1 category in both years.

For the first time ever, superior TDI power from the race track can now be experienced in a series-production sports car � both the Audi TT Coupe 2.0 TDI quattro and the Audi TT Roadster 2.0 TDI quattro feature a diesel engine. The two-liter four-cylinder unit delivers dynamic thrust, with a power output of 125 kW (170 hp) and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque. Despite this, the TDI engine in the Coupe burns just 5.3 liters of fuel per 100 km (44.38 mpg) on average � a benchmark value in the sports car segment.

Also on show at the Lake Worther Tour is the Audi R8 TDI Le Mans, whose drive train technology is closely related to that of the R 10 TDI. The high-performance sports car is driven by a six-liter V12, whose 368 kW (500 hp) of output and 1,000 Nm (737.56 lb-ft) of torque propel the world's most powerful series-production TDI model to a top speed far in excess of 300 km/h (186.41 mph).

Audi R8 GT3

mybb@mybb.ru (wreck) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 18:49:30 +0300

Audi develops race version of the R8

* Customer sport programme with the mid-engine sportscar
* First races planned for 2009 season
* Factory driver Frank Biela completes roll-out

For the first time, Audi Sport will offer a racing sports car specifically developed for customer use in the form of the powerful 500 hp plus GT3 version of the Audi R8 which will be available from autumn 2009. The logistics and factory space required for the AUDI AG customer programme will be created over the next few months in Ingolstadt, Neckarsulm and Györ.

�The R8 is the first production Audi bearing the name and genes of a successful racing sportscar and is therefore an excellent base from which to build up our first big customer sport programme,� explains Head of Audi Motorsport Dr Wolfgang Ullrich. �Ever since the R8 was unveiled we�ve been inundated with enquiries about a race version. With the Audi R8 we will offer customers a racing sportscar equipped with high-calibre technology and the typical Audi qualities, but which is nevertheless easy to handle.�

The Audi R8 conforms to the production-based GT3 regulations allowing the car to be fielded in numerous national and international race series.

Because the GT3 regulations prohibit the use of four-wheel drive the Audi R8 comes with the typical GT rear-wheel drive. The power is transmitted via a newly developed six-speed sequential sports gearbox. The suspension uses almost exclusively components from the production line. A comprehensive list of safety equipment guarantees the highest-level of passive safety. A modified front end and a large rear-wing generate the required downforce for the race track.

The Audi R8, which bears the project name �R16� within Audi Sport, was developed under the direction of Audi Sport. Mid August, the first prototype successfully completed a roll-out in the hands of Audi factory driver Frank Biela.

The first test races in various European racing series are scheduled for the 2009 season. Delivery to the customers is planned from the autumn of this coming year.

The customer cars are manufactured together by Audi Sport and the quattro GmbH, which is also responsible for production of the Audi R8 street version, and Audi Hungaria Motor Kft.

Audi A1 Sportback Concept

mybb@mybb.ru (wreck) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 18:47:33 +0300

Paris 2008: Audi A1 Sportback Concept

At the Paris Motor Show (October 2-10, 2008), Audi is unveiling the A1 Sportback concept study: following on from the Audi A1 project quattro, the three-door show car presented in 2007, this is a concept for a five-door four-seater for the sub-compact class � once again exhibiting all the characteristics of a genuine Audi. The 3.99-meter long (13.09 ft) and 1.75-meter wide (5.74 ft) vehicle combines cutting-edge, dynamic styling with optimum economy of space and supreme quality. At the same time, a series of visionary technical solutions take efficiency, dynamism and motoring pleasure into new territory as only Audi knows how.
Compact five-door model with hybrid drive

Audi is presenting another version of the innovative hybrid technology in the drive unit for the A1 Sportback concept. At work under the hood is a 1.4-litre TFSI engine developing 110 kW (150 hp), whose power is directed to the front wheels by means of the S tronic dual-clutch transmission. A 20 kW (27 hp) electric motor integrated in the drive train is able to deliver up to an additional 150 Nm of torque (110.63 lb-ft) when the vehicle is accelerating. During the boosting phase, i.e. when the TFSI engine and electric motor operate simultaneously to enable a sporty driving style, the two power packs deliver impressive propulsion. The tried-and-tested front-wheel drive � supplemented by the newly developed, ESP-controlled active front differential lock � ensures optimum transfer of power to the road.

The electric motor is furthermore capable of powering the vehicle alone for zero-emission driving in residential areas, for instance. The capacity of the lithium-ion batteries gives the vehicle a range of up to 100 km (62.14 miles) in pure electric mode; the motor can be recharged from any power socket. The automatic start/stop facility, energy regeneration and phases of purely electrical operation reduce the fuel consumption and emissions of the Audi A1 Sportback concept by almost 30 percent compared to when it is running on the combustion engine alone. Despite its sporty performance, with acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 7.9 seconds and a top speed of 200 km/h (124.27 mph), the Audi A1 Sportback concept requires only 3.9 liters of premium fuel per 100 km (60.31 US mpg); CO2 emissions are an efficient 92 g/km (148.06 g/mile)
The design

Exterior

The difference is not down to the two extra doors alone: the styling of the five-door concept vehicle is a consistent development of the three-door study, the Audi A1 project quattro from the year 2007. Surfaces and lines are distinctly tauter and more masculine.

The basic proportions, with a high vehicle body and a flat window area bordered by a coupe-like roof line, produce a virtually classic look for a vehicle bearing the four rings. The rear end is rounded off by a two-part spoiler with a striking centre groove, integrated into the rear window.

The side-on view presents another typical coupe attribute in the form of doors with frameless windows and a glass-covered and thus homogeneously integrated B-pillar. The bold segmentation of the study's side paneling with its gently rising shoulder line accentuates the styling.

The shoulder line of the Audi A1 Sportback concept with its Daytona Grey paint finish is a new interpretation of yet another trademark feature of the current Audi design. Here, the prominent double lines continue around the entire vehicle as a curvaceous band that links the front end � from which it seems to emerge � with the vehicle's tail, which rises to create a slightly wedge-shaped effect.

The aerodynamically designed single-frame grille indicates the sporty ambitions of the study, which are further emphasized by the flared fenders � a tribute to the legendary Ur-quattro design and the current Audi RS 6.

The design of the three-dimensional main headlights in innovative LED technology is especially eye-catching. The completely new styling underlines yet again the amount of freedom that this technology has afforded to designers. All light functions � low?beam and high-beam headlights, daytime running lights and turn indicators � have been located in one flat housing, in concentrically arranged, parallel and squared-off strips.

The layout, with light segments of varying sizes � the low beam taking up most space � completely changes the character of the front section, the �face� of the A1 Sportback concept.

The rear lights, too, continue this theme and combine the function of tail and brake lights, turn indicators, reversing and rear fog lights into an unmistakable design. The interplay of acute and obtuse angles and the clear and colored glass areas create a particularly dynamic look. A large-dimensioned, transparent cover over the entire width of the vehicle additionally combines both light units and emphasizes the horizontal design of the rear.

Like the three-door version, the body of the four-door Audi A1 Sportback concept makes optimum use of the small road surface area available to a vehicle from the premium compact class. Measuring 3.99 m long (13.09 ft) and 1.75 m wide (5.74 ft) with a wheelbase of 2.46 m (8.07 ft), it succeeds in combining sporty looks with impressive economy of space thanks to its short overhangs. The transverse installation of the engine also has a significant role to play in this respect. The third dimension of this compact, sporty car � i.e. the height � comes in at 1.40 meters (4.59 ft).

Interior

The interior, with its four individual seats and a surprisingly generous amount of spaciousness for this class, has a tidy, no-frills appearance. The curved, wrap-around section combines the doors and the sporty cockpit into one single unit. The dashboard and center console are designed entirely around the driver.

Ergonomics and aesthetics unite to create an ambience of clear-cut architecture and high-class appeal. Details such as the turbine-look air vents and air conditioning controls seem to be straight out of a jet plane. This is where advanced form and precise function are combined in typical Audi fashion: air flow direction and volume can be regulated simply and intuitively by turning or pressing the control button in the centre of the vent.

The center console accommodates the integrated selector lever, only extended in drive select dynamic mode, the start/stop button for the engine, the switch for Audi drive select and the armrest with an integrated mobile phone pocket.

The sporty seats with integrated head restraints offer levels of comfort and ergonomics that far exceed the customary standards in the sub-compact class and live up to the expectations of a typical Audi. A transparent, mesh-like fabric covers the lightweight seat apertures, which further accentuates the airiness of the design.

The materials used for the interior trim appeal with their high-class looks and feel. The contrasting color scheme for the interior � white and red � emphasizes the feeling of spaciousness.
Audi mobile device � the second generation

Whereas the Audi A1 project quattro study featured its own mobile control unit for infotainment and vehicle systems, the A1 Sportback concept takes one step further into the future: the driver can use his commercially available mobile phone (equipped accordingly) as a car phone, address database, navigation system and audio/video player. At the same time it can be used as a control unit for numerous vehicle systems in the Audi A1 Sportback concept. Several phones that are suitable for these functions are already available from various manufacturers.

All that is required is some additional software, which Audi will provide on the internet for the driver to download and install. He can then enter his route plan or adjust the sound system to his individual preferences, all from the comfort of his own home, for example.

The mobile phone and vehicle communicate via a fast WLAN connection, even over considerable distances.

The system also offers the user a security function: within the range of the WLAN it can constantly monitor the current status of the vehicle, for instance whether all windows and doors are closed. What�s more, the additional software offers numerous comfort and convenience features such as continued destination guidance on the mobile device after the vehicle has been left in a car park. If the user sets a maximum parking time with the device, its navigation software leads him back to the Audi A1 Sportback concept � in good time of course, allowing for the current distance from the vehicle.

During the journey the mobile device demonstrates its strength as a portable media player. If the user listens to a song in a certain driving situation � on the motorway, for example � it is entered in an appropriate playlist. The software registers when and where the user prefers to listen to particular songs. The music is then available at the right moment.

The MMI control unit in the vehicle is a further development of the familiar design. In terms of feel it is easier to operate, particularly while driving. Grouped around the central rotary pushbutton are four fixed-function hardkeys for the Navigation, Telephone, Car and Media basic menus. Four additional, backlit softkeys have variable functions which change within the individual menus.

The projected softkey labels combine with the bold softkey colors that identify the corresponding menus to ensure swift, intuitive user orientation.

All system information appears in the central display in the instrument cluster. This is designed in its entirety as a digital, freely configurable display with no mechanical elements. Superimposed glass elements make the graphics stand out with a three-dimensional look, producing a level of depth which could never be attained using a standard display.

As well as the virtual, large circular dial of the analog speedometer, which is always visible on the right-hand side of the instrument cluster, numerous other displays can be called up on request, and can be selected via control buttons on the steering wheel. These include infotainment, classic navigation by pictogram or map, a rev counter, information on how to drive as efficiently as possible and a current status report on the hybrid drive.

The layout of the infotainment display features icons arranged in a semicircle. As the driver turns the central MMI rotary pushbutton, the icons mimic the movement until the desired function is selected by pushing the button. Content can therefore be communicated visually, enabling it to be grasped faster and more intuitively than pure text.
Audi drive select

The Audi A1 Sportback concept features Audi drive select, which is also available as an option in the current generation of the Audi A4 bestseller. This enables the driver to pre-select one of two specially adapted configurations for the drivetrain, shift characteristics and magnetic ride shock absorbers.

The default setting is the �efficiency� mode. In this mode, the engine and transmission respond gently to use of the accelerator and shift paddles. This setting is ideal for a relaxed driving style, as well as offering tremendous potential for effectively lowering fuel consumption, and therefore emissions too.

In the �efficiency� mode the Audi A1 Sportback concept can be used for distances of up to 100 kilometers (62.14 miles) in purely electric mode � and it is quite speedy, too: thanks to the powerful battery it is possible to reach a speed of considerably more than 100 km/h (62.14 mph). The combustion engine only cuts in again once battery capacity has dropped to below 20 percent of maximum.

In this mode, the electric motor is not deployed as a source of additional torque; instead it is run selectively as the sole power source to bring about a tangible reduction in consumption. For this purpose, the system makes use of a host of parameters which can be fed to it via the navigation system. In the �efficiency� mode, for example, with a fully charged battery and a distance of less than 50 kilometers (31.07 miles) the vehicle is operated in principle on purely electrical power.

Thanks to the navigation system�s ability to detect differences in altitude along the route, regeneration phases as well as the increase in energy requirements on inclines can be computed before the journey has even started. This makes vehicle operation even more efficient through optimum utilization of the electric motor.

The sport mode is designed to produce the dynamic yet comfortable driving sensation that is so typical of the brand and that Audi drivers have come to expect of their car. In this mode, the vehicle�s electronics also harness the torque available from the electric motor to achieve extra-sporty acceleration along with excellent lateral dynamics.
The drivetrain

Characteristic Audi sportiness plus a whole new dimension in efficiency � it is all down to the combination of a state-of-the-art turbocharged FSI engine with an electric motor and innovative control electronics.

Under the hood of the Audi A1 Sportback concept sits a four-cylinder TFSI with a capacity of 1.4 liters and a turbocharger. This engine is an advanced version of the unit that made its series production debut in the Audi A3. Whereas the 1.4 TFSI musters 92 kW (125 hp) in the A3, it delivers 110 kW (150 hp) at 5,500 rpm in the study. Its peak torque of 240 Nm (177.01 lb?ft) is on tap over a broad rev band from 1,600 � 4,000 rpm.

The Audi engineers have long since proven the performance potential of turbocharged FSI technology, both on race tracks around the world and out on the road. Indeed, a jury of experts awarded the accolade of �Engine of the Year� to the 2.0 TFSI for the fourth year in succession in 2008.

The new 1.4 TFSI builds on this very same concept in order to maximize efficiency and performance. Multi-hole injectors result in very homogeneous mixture formation and extremely efficient combustion. This is also an effective means of helping to cut pollutant emissions.

The integrated turbocharger promises optimized responsiveness and even more harmonious torque build-up. 80 percent of peak torque can be summoned up from as low down as 1,250 rpm, in other words barely above idling speed. And despite its power, the 1.4 TFSI sets new benchmark standards in its class for its acoustic output too.
Powertrain

Power transmission to the front wheels is the task of the sporty Audi S tronic dual-clutch gearbox. It allows the driver to change gear in fractions of a second without the use of a clutch pedal and with no interruption to the power flow. If required, the transmission performs the gear changes fully automatically, too. If the driver wishes to change gear manually, he can do so by using the shift paddles mounted on the steering wheel. Reverse gear and neutral are engaged via the gear knob on the centre console. The park position is automatically selected when the electric parking brake is engaged.

Between combustion engine and transmission sits the 20 kW (27 hp) electric unit, which cuts in automatically depending on the selected operating mode � or propels the vehicle alone. The battery unit � a package of compact lithium-ion batteries � is installed at the rear of the vehicle, which makes for a good weight balance.

When powered solely by the combustion engine or purely by the electric motor, and when both are used in the boost mode, the A1 Sportback concept operates as a front-wheel drive vehicle. The high torque of 390 Nm in total (287.64 lb-ft) � 240 Nm (177.01 lb-ft) from the 1.4 TFSI plus an extra 150 Nm (110.63 lb-ft) from the electric motor � is transformed into the required level of tractive power when accelerating.

Overrun, or the so-called regeneration phase, is one of the most important instruments of this vehicle concept for optimizing efficiency as it transforms the braking energy released during deceleration phases back into electrical energy, instead of it being wasted and released as heat.

The Audi A1 Sportback concept can in principle run self-sufficiently, using mixed operation of the combustion engine and electric motor. Thanks to the intelligent management of both units, energy regeneration as well as the automatic start/stop function, fuel consumption is almost 30 percent lower compared to a vehicle running on the gasoline engine alone. Although the components of the electric motor add around 40 kilograms to the overall weight, the study still only burns 3.9 liters of premium fuel per 100 km (60.31 US mpg) in mixed mode, while CO2 emissions average just 92 g/km (148.06 g/mile).

Pure electrical operation over shorter distances, however, is a particularly attractive alternative offered by this vehicle that benefits the environment and the wallet alike � all the more so considering that the performance achieved in this mode and the range of over 50 kilometers (31.07 miles) are perfectly satisfactory. �Refueling� the Audi A1 Sportback concept from power sockets alone, therefore, produces an unequivocal result: even allowing for the relatively high costs of domestic electricity in Germany, it is still possible to achieve a saving or more than 80 percent compared with the price of premium fuel. Thanks to �zero emissions� the benefit to the environment is even greater, particularly in congested urban areas.
The chassis

The fundamental ingredient for outstanding driving safety and handling dynamics is supplied by the sophisticated chassis design, comprising McPherson front suspension and four-link independent rear suspension. Large 18-inch wheels with size 225/35 R18 tires boost both driving pleasure and safety. Thanks to the newly developed active, ESP-controlled front differential lock, propulsive torque is distributed according to the driving situation, thereby achieving enhanced steering precision and superior directional stability as well as improved traction and dynamic handling when cornering.

The dynamic chassis is tuned for sporty, agile handling combined with excellent stability, and makes cornering a particular delight. What�s more, the chassis excels with a level of ride comfort befitting of higher vehicle classes.

The braking system with its large-diameter discs (measuring 312 mm across (12.28 in) at the front wheels) is more than a match for the drive power. Bred on the racetrack, the system promises outstanding, fade-free stopping power.

The electromechanical steering with speed-sensitive power assistance is also a boon for agile handling. The system boasts optimum steering feel combined with low sensitivity to road surface excitation and a considerable reduction in energy consumption.

The specific strengths of the four-link suspension stem from the way in which it splits the functions for absorbing longitudinal and lateral forces. This permits a high level of lateral rigidity on the one hand for optimum dynamism and driving safety, while offering a great degree of longitudinal flexibility on the other to improve ride comfort.

The shock absorbers deploy a highly innovative technology in the form of Audi magnetic ride, which has already made its mark in the Audi R8 high-performance sports car and in the TT. Here, the conventional shock absorber fluid is replaced by a magneto-rheological fluid whose qualities can be controlled by means of an electromagnetic field. This effect enables the damping characteristic to be influenced electronically at will by applying a voltage to the electromagnets.

Audi magnetic ride capitalizes on this quality to make the appropriate damping forces available in any driving situation, thereby optimizing both ride comfort and performance dynamics. A computer linked up to a system of sensors interprets the current driving situation with split-second speed. Here, the driver can choose between two driving programs, depending on whether he wants to drive with a sportier style � with the magneto-rheological fluid requiring a low yield stress � or with a greater emphasis on ride comfort.

Carlsson Aigner CK65 RS "Eau Rouge" Dark Edition

mybb@mybb.ru (wreck) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 18:43:50 +0300

Limited edition: Carlsson Aigner CK65 RS "Eau Rouge" Dark Edition

* Luxury coupé with V12-Bi-Turbo and up to 756 hp
* Interior in co-operation with the leather lifestyle brand Aigner
* Superb art of engineering "Made in Germany"
* Limited line Dark Edition

The automobile manufacturer Carlsson who is specialised on Mercedes Benz, extends its co-operation with the leather lifestyle brand Etienne Aigner AG and will exhibit the world premiere of the Carlsson Aigner CK65 RS �Eau Rouge� Dark Edition at the Zürich Auto Show. Produced in small series, the luxury coupé is available with either a V12 Bi-Turbo with 705 hp or a second power level with 756 hp and 1,150 Nm.

The newly designed car front dominates the exceptional appearance. Both the front skirt with a front spoiler made of solid carbon as well as the car paint which renders appealing contrasts in two colours are eye-catchers. The special line Dark Edition of Carlsson Aigner CK65 RS �Eau Rouge� which is produced in small series and limited to only ten cars, is exclusively available in the double-coloured combination obsidian black metallic with Himalaya-gray. Shaded Bi-Xenon headlights with cone-shaped lights and the radiator grill with the jumping Carlsson horse perfect the front appearance.

Moreover, the sides are dominated by the three-part forged rims in 21�. The glazed finished surface of the light alloy rims manufactured in forged technology, offers an absolutely masterful appearance.

The electrically adjustable sport seats with multi-contour function and seat heating have been upholstered with high-class leather according to the philosophy of the Leather Lifestyle Brand Aigner. Superb craftsmanship characterises the newly created interior. With the ergonomically shaped Carlsson sport steering wheel in a Leather/Alcantara-combination, the driver can control the Carlsson Aigner in a very pleasing way. Carlsson sport aluminium pedal pads and illuminated door sill protectors, as well as numerous other optical refinements guide the way into a world full of luxurious elegance.

The wooden appliqués were adjusted to the colour of the car paint and all visible plastic parts were covered with noble Aigner-Leather. The Aigner-A, embossed in the front headrests and the reverse side of the front seats, confirm the exclusive origin. Moreover,

the complete car interior, including handholds, sun shields and rear screen frame has been covered with Aigner-Alcantara.

The Carlsson sport exhaust system renders more output and an especially powerful sound. The rear section of the Carlsson Aigner CK65 is dominated by four end pipes in Carlsson design which impress by their sportive, earthy sound. In comparison to the serial exhaust system, the exhaust back pressure and pipe guide are optimised. Therewith, Carlsson achieves an improved torque and a higher performance. The new Carlson aerodynamics kit once again skilfully underlines the elegant silhouette of the basis model. But the Carlsson Aigner CK65 �Eau Rouge� Dark Edition has its own identity and an own profile, both in the exterior and also in the interior. The front spoilers and rear skirt lip are designed in the typical Carlsson Diffuser Look and the striking rear spoiler also eases handling the luxury coupe at high speeds. The exclusive Carlsson aerodynamics parts are made of high-class and ultra-light solid carbon, a material which is mainly used in the Formula 1.

Electronic lowering C-Tronic� SUSPENSION

For the Carlsson Aigner CK65, Carlsson exclusively offers an electronic lowering kit C-Tronic� SUSPENSION which lowers the car by approx. 30 mm. But the Carlsson C-Tronic� SUSPENSION does not only lower the centre of gravity, but thanks to an elaborate technology, also allows an intelligent interaction with the conditions on the road. When the road conditions are bad and continuously strong deflections arise, the height of the vehicle is automatically adjusted and the necessary remaining spring deflection is maintained. The driver can feel the effects of the C-Tronic� lowering by a reduced curl and significantly more agile driving characteristics.

Therefore, the C-Tronic� SUSPENSION also stands for more driving pleasure.

Moreover, the C-Tronic� SUSPENSION guarantees that even when driving faster than 120 km/h, the serially feasible maximum lowering � and therefore the minimum vehicle level � is not undercut. This permanently guarantees a sufficient deflection.

Besides, the air resistance and the lifting forces are lowered, as less air is flowing under the vehicle.

Technical masterpiece

The Carlsson motor makeover includes especially adjusted motor electronics with special ignition maps for fuel injection and ignition. At the intake side, special sport air filters render optimal ventilation. A sport exhaust system made of stainless steel optimises the exhaust back pressure. Therefore, the V12 is powerfully present in all situations and the driver can serenely draw on plentiful resources. Elegant and unsurpassed in its finish, the Carlsson Aigner CK65 is presumably the most exciting means of travelling at the moment. The Carlsson Aigner CK65 �Eau Rouge� Dark Edition with 756 hp offers a maximum speed of 335 km/h which is electronically regulated due to safety reasons and excels with an acceleration from naught to 100 in 3.8 seconds. With such results, the Carlsson Aigner CK65 outpaces nearly any other sports car.

The limited small series Carlsson Aigner CK65 �Eau Rouge� Dark Edition shows the many opportunities Carlsson offers for making individual customer wishes come true. Tailor-made modifications such as Carlsson sport running gears, Carlsson engines, Carlsson top break systems, Carlsson wheel-tyre combinations, limited slip differentials or also individual Carlsson Aigner interior designs and unique automobile pieces are put to life with the help of the Carlsson engineers and qualified specialists.

The idea, concept, preparation and finish especially show the performance efficiency of the Automobile Manufactory Carlsson. The Carlsson Aigner CK65 �Eau Rouge� Dark Edition surely is the most impressive proof for the successful synergy of two brands into a technically as well as creatively demanding automobile. Prices for the Carlsson Aigner CK65 �Eau Rouge� Dark Edition with V12 is start from 319,000 euros and for the V12 with Carlsson-Bi-Turbo in the second power stage from 374,000 euros.

Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed

mybb@mybb.ru (wreck) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 18:25:34 +0300

The new Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed

* The 2009 range builds on the success of Bentley�s class-leading Continental Flying Spur.
* The new Continental Flying Spur range is refined and expanded with two distinctive models.
* The 2009 Continental Flying Spur offers enhanced levels of refinement, comfort and choice.
* The new Continental Flying Spur Speed delivers a more powerful and engaging Bentley driving experience.

INTRODUCTION

The new Bentley Continental Flying Spur is set to deliver even greater levels of refinement, comfort and opportunities for customer personalisation. The class-leading 12-cylinder luxury saloon will also be joined by the 600 bhp (610PS) Continental Flying Spur Speed. The most powerful 4-door car ever produced by the British manufacturer, the Flying Spur Speed offers the pure driving experience and uncompromising performance synonymous with all Bentleys bearing the Speed legend.

The Continental Flying Spur has been an extraordinary success story for Bentley since its launch in 2005. Its unrivalled combination of exciting performance, luxury, craftsmanship, style and four-door practicality has broadened the appeal of the Continental range. The Flying Spur has become the most successful 12-cylinder luxury saloon in the world and has played a pivotal role in the revitalisation of Bentley.

The instantly recognisable style of the Flying Spur undergoes a subtle evolution with changes to the front and rear design. The new, more upright grille and bolder lower air intake accentuate the distinctive Bentley profile, while the new rear bumper delivers a more aggressive and sleek appearance.

A comprehensive range of noise-absorbent measures including acoustic glazing, tri-laminate body undertrays and wheelarch liners ensure that cabin refinement, already a hallmark of the Continental Flying Spur, is best in class.

The new Flying Spur may now be specified with a sophisticated follow-to-stop, radar-based Adaptive Cruise Control system, which monitors traffic ahead and manages the throttle and brakes to maintain a pre-set time gap, up to a driver selected set speed.

As a further option, the new Naim for Bentley audio system provides the world�s best in-car sound stage. Designed exclusively for Bentley by Naim, the renowned British hi-fi manufacturer, the system features an 1100 Watt amplifier, the most powerful unit offered in a production car, and 15 custom-built Naim speakers, including dual Naim sub-woofers. The next-generation Digital Signal Processor further enhances the listening experience.

The aluminium-intensive suspension of the Flying Spur features revised spring and dampers and a new bespoke 19-inch Pirelli UHP tyre for outstanding levels of ride quality, comfort and refinement.

Bentley�s commitment to the highest quality of craftsmanship and customer personalisation is highlighted with an enhanced choice of beautifully crafted wood marquetry and chrome inlays. In addition, seat piping, a traditional Bentley feature, is introduced on Flying Spur together with two new hide colours. Three new colours and four duo-tone paint combinations are added to the exterior paint palette.

The 600bhp Continental Flying Spur Speed unleashes the same potent performance and intense levels of driver engagement as its highly acclaimed stablemate, the Continental GT Speed.

Inspired by Bentley�s legendary �Speed� models that first appeared in 1923, the Flying Spur Speed offers a range of headline performance figures including a 0-60mph sprint time of 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 200mph.

A lowered ride height, uprated and redesigned suspension as well as retuned steering deliver outstanding agility and body control. Exceptional grip comes from the unique 9.5Jx20 multi-spoke alloy wheels with bespoke Pirelli P-Zero UHP performance tyres.

The Flying Spur Speed is distinguished by subtle design cues which emphasise its performance credentials, including dark-tinted radiator and air intake grilles, wider rifled exhaust tail pipes and unique 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels.

Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive, Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen explains the rationale behind the new range:

�The global success of the Continental Flying Spur has created a new generation of Bentley owners. Responding to their feedback, we have refined an already remarkable car and with the debut of the Flying Spur Speed we are extending its appeal.�

CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR RANGE � NEWS IN BRIEF
CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR

Styling evolution

- New front end design with:

* More upright front grille with bright chrome matrix.
* Larger, lower air intakes.
* Chromed headlamp bezels.
* Optional bright chrome matrix lower grille.

- New, more slender rear bumper design with:

* Wraparound brightware and black valance.
* Bright tail lamp bezels.

- Best-in-class cabin refinement

* Acoustic glass to side and rear windows.
* New acoustic tri-laminate undertray and wheelarch liners.
* Retuned exhaust system.

Enhanced driving dynamics

* The aluminium-intensive suspension features revised spring, anti-roll bar and damper settings and a new bespoke 19-inch Pirelli UHP tyre, for outstanding levels of ride quality, comfort, response and refinement.
* New design 19-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels.
* Retuned Servotronic power steering for improved feedback and feel.
* New �Sport Traction� mode from ESP 8.1 system offers superb traction without being intrusive.
* Optional fade-resistant carbon ceramic brakes provide improved brake feel (only available on 20-inch wheels).
o Discs last lifetime of car and pad life doubled (in normal driving conditions).
* New, follow-to-stop precision radar-based Adaptive Cruise Control with five time-gap settings.
* Power output of the twin turbo 6.0 litre W12 engine remains at 552bhp (560PS/412kW).
* Top speed of 195mph (312km/h) and 0-60mph in 4.9 seconds (0-100km/h in 5.2s).

Enhanced cabin comfort and customer convenience

* New optional exclusive Naim for Bentley audio system with 1100 Watt amplifier provides the world�s best in-car sound stage.
* New optional glovebox-located iPod, MP3 & USB interface connects personal music to the in-car infotainment system.
* Multi-layer seat construction for enhanced comfort.
* New optional full width rear seat with electrically adjustable outboard positions and fixed central seat.
* Park distance control system with new graphics on infotainment screen.
* Aluminium foot pedals incorporating the �B� Bentley logo.

Improved personalisation and bespoke choice

- Enhanced choice of handcrafted interior and exterior finishes include:

* Contemporary style marquetry with crossbanding to door waistrails (Walnut & Chestnut veneers only).
* Traditional style marquetry with crossbanding and inlay to fascia, door waistrails and uppercentre console (Walnut & Chestnut veneers only).
* New chrome inlay strip to door waistrails.
* New two tone interior hide colour options providing greater opportunities for personalisation.
* Two new interior hide colours, Linen and Imperial Blue.
* Seat piping now available in 16 colours to allow customer to match secondary hide or single tone interior.
* Three new standard exterior paint colours (Havana, White Sand and Onyx) along with four unique duo-tone paint combinations (Havana, Dark Sapphire, Onyx and Midnight Emerald) for the first time on the Continental family.

THE NEW CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR SPEED

The new Flying Spur Speed shares the enhancements of the Continental Flying Spur model above with the following additions taken from the acclaimed GT Speed:

- A more powerful 600bhp (610PS/449kW) version of Bentley�s highly acclaimed W12 with 553 lbft (750 Nm) of torque.

* A 9% increase in power and 15% increase in torque.
* Maximum torque constant from 1750 rev/min.

- More engaging Bentley driving experience through uprated chassis:

* 10mm lowered ride height, uprated spring/damper settings and uprated anti-roll bars for improved agility and body control.
* Exceptional roadholding thanks to superior grip from unique 9.5Jx20 multi-spoke alloy wheels with bespoke Pirelli P-Zero performance tyres.
* Improved steering response achieved through retuned speed-sensitive Servotronic system, solid-mounted front subframe and stiffer rear bushings.
* �Dynamic� mode introduced on the uprated Bosch 8.1 ESP system with more progressive intervention to cater for the more spirited driver.

- 0-60mph in 4.5 secs (0-100km/h in 4.8s) and a top speed of 200mph (322km/h).

Unique Speed model styling cues:

* Front grille and lower air intakes in dark-tinted chrome matrix.
* Bright chrome grilles available as a no cost option.
* Wider rifled sports exhaust tail pipes.
* �Speed� treadplates to all four doors.
* 3-spoke Sport leather steering wheel.
* Optional bright or dark tint aluminium fascia panel.
* Drilled alloy sport foot-pedals, knurled chrome/hide gearlever.
* Diamond quilted hide to seat facings and door panels.

THE NEW 2009 CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR

With typical Bentley understatement the styling of the new Continental Flying Spur is both evolutionary and subtly effective. At the front, the new bright chrome radiator grille, now more vertical, has a more pronounced square edge, accentuating the distinctive Bentley profile.

Beneath the grille, the new lower bumper features a wider, bolder central air intake. The black matrix grille also provides a 14 percent increase in airflow for the more powerful Speed version and the charge cooler intakes are positioned on the corners.

The lower grilles may also be specified in bright chrome to complement that of the main radiator. Chromed bezels around the headlamps complement the new frontal design.

At the rear, the new bumper with black lower valance and wraparound chrome trims make for a more slender appearance that is complemented by new chromed tail lamp bezels. Director of Design, Dirk van Braeckel explains the styling evolution:

�The Flying Spur is instantly recognisable on the road and we were keen to retain its individuality. The subtle styling changes have given the car a fresh look at the front and sleeker, more balanced appearance at the rear.�
Enhanced cabin refinement

Since its launch in 2005, the Continental Flying Spur model has achieved a well-deserved reputation for outstanding cabin refinement. For the new model range, the Bentley engineering team were tasked to build on this success and create a unique cabin ambience with best in class refinement and comfort.

Key to that improvement is a comprehensive package of enhancements to the Flying Spur�s already impressive acoustic suppression technology. The complex double-glazed windows, a standard feature since launch, now feature a sophisticated acoustic laminate inner layer for all side and rear windows. In addition, new tri-laminate acoustic underbody trays and wheel arch liners absorb road noise.

A redesigned exhaust system provides greater refinement while maintaining the sporty, baritone character of the exhaust note. Overall, these changes deliver a substantial improvement in cabin refinement.

Bentley�s Head of Body and Trim Engineering, Peter Guest, explains the effect of this acoustic management:

�We are immensely proud that the cabin refinement of the new Flying Spur is best-in-class. While achieving superb levels of noise insulation, the sporting character and sense of connection with the road is undiminished.�
Enhanced driving dynamics and ride comfort

At the heart of the Continental Flying Spur is Bentley�s 6-litre, twin turbocharged W12 engine, the most compact 12-cylinder engine in production. The 48-valve head employs four camshafts and continually variable valve timing. Power is transmitted via an uprated ZF six-speed automatic transmission.

The W12 engine continues to produce 552bhp (560PS/412kW) at 6100 rev/min and a maximum torque of 650Nm (479lb ft) from 1600 rev/min across virtually the entire rev range.

In common with all Continental models, the Flying Spur employs a complex four-link suspension at the front and a trapezoidal multi-link system at the rear.

Much of the suspension is made from lightweight aluminium, benefiting steering feel and rolling comfort. Self-levelling air springs are standard, constantly monitoring and adjusting the ride height and damping according to road conditions.

Outstanding levels of ride quality and comfort were the target for the new Continental Flying Spur and to achieve this, Bentley engineers have recalibrated both spring and damper settings and introduced a new bespoke 19-inch Pirelli P-Zero UHP tyre.

Using the same technology as the 20-inch performance tyre introduced on the 2008 Continental GT Speed, the 19-inch version is specially developed to optimise ride comfort and noise suppression, while providing outstanding grip and agility.

The hydraulics of the speed-sensitive Servotronic rack and pinion steering system have been retuned to reduce friction and improve steering feel and driver feedback.

The uprated advanced electronic stability control (ESP) 8.1 system has a new �Sport Traction� mode that moderates ESP intervention at low speeds whilst providing a greater degree of driver interaction and control, offering superb traction without being intrusive.

Both Flying Spur models can now be specified with Bentley Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).

As with conventional cruise control, ACC will maintain, within close limits, a �set speed� as selected by the driver. In addition, ACC uses a long-range radar sensor, mounted in the lower front grille, to monitor the road ahead for other vehicles. When a slower moving vehicle is detected, the system automatically adjusts braking and acceleration to maintain a �time gap�, as selected by the driver.

The �time gap� also controls the vehicle dynamic response. The larger the time gap the more relaxed the acceleration and braking, allowing the driver to tune the ACC system to suit their own driving style and traffic conditions.

All Flying Spur models are equipped with the largest brakes of any production passenger car on sale today, with 405mm x 36mm ventilated front discs and 335mm x 22mm rears.

Bentley�s carbon/silicon carbide brakes (CCB) are offered for the first time as an option on Continental Flying Spur. With even larger 20mm x 40mm cross-drilled front discs and 356mm x 28mm rears, with eight-piston callipers, they may only be specified with 20-inch alloy wheels.

The lightweight, fade-resistant braking system minimises disc distortion under high thermal conditions. Under normal driving conditions the brake discs will last the lifetime of the car and brake pad life is doubled compared with the standard system. A 20kg reduction in rotating and unsprung mass also benefits steering response and handling.

Brian Gush, Director, Chassis and Powertrain Engineering, comments:

�True to the Bentley tradition, the Flying Spur delivers effortless power while significant advancements in ride quality and comfort further emphasise its deserved reputation for world-class luxury. The new Speed model exemplifies our passion for creating cars that deliver truly exceptional performance and driving enjoyment.�
Enhanced cabin comfort and customer convenience

The 2009 Continental Flying Spur is the first model to feature the new Naim for Bentley audio system to create the world�s best in-car sound stage.

Designed exclusively for Bentley by Naim, the renowned British hi-fi manufacturer, it features an 1100 Watt amplifier � the world�s most powerful production unit fitted in a car � and 15 speakers. The speaker drive units are specifically tailored by Naim to the cabin of each model in the Bentley range to provide a unique and personalised audio experience.

Bentley is also the first car manufacturer to use a next-generation Digital Signal Processor (DSP) in its audio system, enhancing the listening experience still further.

All cars are now fitted as standard with a handset allowing rear passengers to control the main infotainment system.

A new optional iPod, MP3 and USB interface is located in the glovebox, enabling customers to connect personal music to the in-car infotainment system. When an iPod is connected, the tracks are displayed on the infotainment screen.

This perfectly complements the optional rear seat entertainment package that comprises two headrest-mounted 7-inch LCD screens, a 6-DVD multi-changer and two sets of headphones. An enhanced remote control unit now incorporates the rear seat entertainment systems.

A further driver convenience feature is introduced for the park/distance control. The new graphics readout on the console-mounted infotainment screen complements the audible signal.

All new Flying Spur models also benefit from significant developments to the cabin interior. The seating of all new models is extensively redesigned, with a multi-layer seat construction the comfort of which is optimised using different materials.

Employing the latest body profiling databases, the seats are constructed to offer the optimum shape for front and rear seat occupants. In addition, the rear seat cushions are lengthened by 40mm for additional comfort and support.

For the first time on Flying Spur, customers specifying a five-seat configuration may now opt for a rear-seat configuration with fully adjustable outboard positions and a fixed central seat. The outer seats have full lumbar adjustment together with heating and massage functions and a facility to adjust the position of an unoccupied front passenger seat for even greater legroom. Seat ventilation is available as an optional extra.

Improved personalisation and bespoke choice

Already renowned for its unrivalled standard of interior craftsmanship, the cabin of the Continental Flying Spur is now even more luxurious, offering unparalleled opportunities for personalisation in this segment of the market. This follows an extensive development programme that marries the latest production technology with the skills of Bentley�s craftsmen and women at its factory in Crewe, England.

Continental Flying Spur customers may now choose from an array of beautifully crafted inlays. These include chrome inlays to door waistrails and a choice of intricate marquetry wood inlays in contemporary and traditional designs, creating a unique and personalised appearance.

The contemporary style inlays comprise crossbanding to the door waistrails while the traditional style inlays feature crossbanding and inlay to fascia, door waistrails and upper centre console. Both are available for Walnut and Chestnut veneers.

To further enhance the interior specification, seat piping is now available as a cost option and can be ordered in a contrast or non-contrast condition from the full colour palette of interior hides.

In addition, a new approach to the interior hide colour combinations provides customers with greater opportunities for personalisation. The door waistrails and lower door panels may now be matched to secondary hide while the centre door pads and armrests remain matched to the main hide colour creating a new two-tone effect.

Additions to the 2009 Flying Spur palette include two new hide colours (Linen and Imperial Blue) as well as three new standard exterior paint colours (Havana, White Sand and Onyx). Four unique duo-tone paint combinations (Havana, Dark Sapphire, Onyx and Midnight Emerald) are available for the first time on the Continental family.
THE NEW CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR SPEED

Following the highly successful introduction of the Continental GT Speed coupe in 2007, Bentley � almost half of new Continental GTs now sold are Speed versions � Bentley now offers the 600bhp (610PS) W12 powertrain in the new Continental Flying Spur Speed to deliver a more powerful and engaging Bentley driving experience.

The Speed engine develops 15 percent more torque and nine percent more power than the standard Flying Spur, while engine efficiency is optimised by the use of lower friction, lighter-weight components and a new engine management system. The resultant performance is exceptional, with a top speed of 200mph (322km/h), a zero to 60mph sprint time of just 4.5 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.8s) and effortless overtaking capability.

The most powerful four-door Bentley ever made, the Flying Spur Speed blends understated design cues to distinguish it from the Flying Spur. Its front grille and lower air intakes are dark-tinted chrome, while at the rear wider rifled sports exhaust tailpipes hint at the potential of the Speed model.

New 20-inch multi-spoke wheels available in both bright silver or darkened tungsten carry bespoke Pirelli PZero performance tyres introduced on the GT Speed model, which provide the car with superb grip and feedback.

The Speed�s sporting performance is complemented by a highly capable chassis. Tauter handling and greater steering response with sharper turn-in and improved driver feedback is achieved through a retuned Servotronic steering system, direct-mounted front subframe and stiffer bushings.

Improved agility and body control is also achieved through uprated spring and damper settings as well as thicker anti-roll bars front and rear. To aid the car�s high-speed dynamics, the Flying Spur Speed�s self-levelling air suspension sits 10mm lower.

The advanced electronic stability programme (ESP), uprated to ESP 8.1 for both models, provides a greater degree of driver interaction and control.

The Flying Spur Speed offers a new 'Dynamic Mode' that allows increased wheel slip at higher speeds. Torque is reinstated more quickly after the traction control system is triggered, giving the spirited driver a greater sense of control and the ability to exploit the full potential of the new engine.

Dr Ulrich Eichhorn, Member of the Board Engineering, comments:

�The new Flying Spur advances its Bentley performance credentials while delivering outstanding refinement and comfort through our unique application of advanced technology and traditional craftsmanship.

�With 600 bhp and a sports-tuned chassis, the Flying Spur Speed redefines customer expectations of a large, four-door luxury saloon. The performance, handling and agility set new benchmarks.�

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
MODEL TYPE Four-door

ENGINE
Type 12-cylinder, 6-litre twin-turbocharged engine
Installation Front, longitudinal, all-wheel drive
Construction Alloy heads and block
Bore/stroke 84 x 90.2mm
Capacity 5998cc
Compression ratio 9.0:1
Valve gear Chain-driven DOHC per bank, 4 valves per cylinder, cam phased inlet and outlet
Power Flying Spur: 552bhp/560PS/412kW @ 6100rev/min
Flying Spur Speed: 600bhp/610PS/449kW @ 6000rev/min
Torque Flying Spur: 479lb ft/650Nm @1600rev/min
Flying Spur Speed: 553lb ft/750Nm @ 1750rev/min
Fuel 98 (95) RON

TRANSMISSION
Type Continuous all-wheel drive
Gearbox ZF 6-speed automatic
Ratios 1st: 4.17
2nd: 2.34
3rd: 1.52
4th: 1.14
5th: 0.87
6th: 0.69
Final drive: 3.526

PERFORMANCE
Top speed Flying Spur: 195mph (312km/h)
Flying Spur Speed: 200mph (322km/h)

0-60mph (0-100km/h) Flying Spur: 4.9 seconds (5.2 seconds)
Flying Spur Speed: 4.5 seconds (4.8 seconds)

0-100mph (0-160km/h) Flying Spur: 11.3 seconds (11.3 seconds)
Flying Spur Speed: 10.5 seconds (10.4 seconds)

50-70mph (80-120km/h) Flying Spur: 2.6 seconds (3.3 seconds)
Flying Spur Speed: 2.4 seconds (3.1 seconds)

SUSPENSION
Front Complex multi-link, computer-controlled self-levelling air suspension, anti-roll bar
Rear Trapezoidal multi-link, computer-controlled self-levelling air suspension, anti-roll bar

STEERING
Type Rack & pinion, power-assisted, speed-sensitive
Turns lock to lock 2.7
Turning circle (kerb to kerb) 11.8m (38.7 ft)

BRAKES
Front 405mm ventilated discs (optional 420mm carbon/ silicon carbide, cross-drilled discs)
Rear 335mm ventilated discs (optional 356mm carbon/ silicon carbide, cross-drilled discs)
Anti lock Standard with Electronic Stability Programme (ESP)

BODY & CHASSIS
Construction Steel monocoque
Length 5290mm (208.26in)
Width (inc. mirrors) 2118mm (83.39in)
Weight 2475kg (5456lb)
Height Flying Spur: 1475mm (58.1in)
Flying Spur Speed: 1465mm (57.7in)
Wheelbase 3065mm (120.67in)
Front track 1623mm (63.9in)
Rear track 1607mm (63.27in)
Wheels Flying Spur: 9.0J 19-inch Alloy (optional 9.0J 20-inch Alloy)
Flying Spur Speed: 9.5J 20-inch Alloy
Tyres (bespoke) Flying Spur: 275/40x19 bespoke Pirelli P Zero (optional 275/35x20)
Flying Spur Speed: 275/35x20 Pirelli P-Zero
Tyre pressure monitoring standard
Luggage volume 475 litres (16.7 cu.ft./ 0.47m3)
Fuel tank capacity 90 litres (19.8 gallons/23.8 US gallons)

INTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Front legroom 1054mm (41.5in)
Rear legroom 980mm (38.58in)

FUEL CONSUMPTION/EMISSIONS
Fuel consumption Urban: 11.2mpg (25.3 litres/100km)
Extra Urban: 24.3mpg (11.6 litres/100km)
Combined: 17.0mpg (16.6 litres/100km)
Carbon dioxide emissions 396g/km
Emission controls EU 1V and US LEV II
EPA Drive Cycle City Driving: 10.0mpg (US)
Highway Driving: 17.0mpg (US)

CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR STANDARD FEATURE SPECIFICATIONS INCLUDE:

EXTERIOR FEATURES Bright chromed grille
Black lower grille
Twin Bi-Xenon headlamps with chrome surrounds
Twin oval stainless steel tail pipes
Keyless entry and ignition
Power latching to all doors
Rain sensing wipers
Electronic tyre monitoring system
Choice of 16 standard exterior colours

INTERIOR FEATURES Burr Walnut to fascia, front & rear console and door waistrails
Choice of 17 standard interior hide colours
Single tone, 4-spoke hide-trimmed multi-function steering wheel
Hide and chrome trimmed gear lever with manual shift change facility
Four-zone electronic climate control
Electronically adjustable front seats with memory and heat settings
Integrated Bluetooth phone system with remote SIM access profile (rSAP)
Telephone voice dialing
Infotainment system with DVD Satellite Navigation and hi-fi system with remote control and 6 CD changer
Breitling clock
Steering column-mounted gear shift paddles
Engine stop/start button
Electronic cruise control
Footpedal with Bentley �B� emblem

CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR SPEED FEATURE SPECIFICATIONS INCLUDE:

EXTERIOR FEATURES Dark chromed radiator and lower grille
Sports tuned exhaust with twin rifled oval stainless steel sports tail pipes
Lowered sports suspension (10mm front & rear)
Painted black finish to engine cover
20 x 9.5J wheels with bespoke performance tyres

INTERIOR FEATURES Unique treadplates bearing �Speed� name
Diamond quilted hide to seat facings and doors
Embroidered Bentley emblem to head rests
Indented hide headlining
Single-tone, 3-spoke hide-trimmed multi-function
Sports design steering wheel with silver switch surround
Sporting gear lever finished in knurled chrome and hide
Drilled alloy sport foot-pedals

A SELECTION OF OPTIONS AVAILABLE SEPARATELY:

* Naim for Bentley Premium Audio System
* iPod/ MP3/USB interface
* Traditional style cross banding and inlay to fascia, door waistrails and upper centre console (Walnut and Chestnut veneers only)
* Contemporary style cross banding to door waistrails (Walnut and Chestnut veneers only)
* Chrome inlays to waistrails
* Choice of upgraded veneers
* Fascia panels available in bright or dark tint* aluminium
* Fascia panels, header and centre console in bright or dark tint aluminium*
* Rear seat configuration with fully adjustable outboard positions and a fixed central seat
* Seat piping to front and rear seats in 17 colours
* 4-spoke wood and hide-trimmed multi-function steering wheel
* Exterior paint match service to customer specification
* Exterior paint colour from Arnage range

*Available on Continental Flying Spur Speed only

THE MULLINER DRIVING SPECIFICATION
(OPTIONAL ON CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR ONLY)
INCLUDES:

* Choice of veneers � Burr Walnut, Dark Stained Burr Walnut, Piano Black (additional veneers available at extra cost)
* Drilled alloy sport foot-pedals
* Sporting gear lever finished in knurled chrome and hide
* Diamond quilted hide to seat facings and door panels
* Embroidered Bentley emblem to headrests
* Indented hide headlining
* 20�� 7-spoke 2-piece alloy sports wheels

Bentley Azure T

mybb@mybb.ru (wreck) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 18:22:52 +0300

Bentley Azure T

Stylish and powerful, the new Bentley Azure T is the world�s most elegant convertible and destined to become a future classic.

* The world�s most elegant four-seat convertible now with 500bhp Azure T model
* Azure T delivers exhilarating, class-leading performance
* Unique Bentley �T� styling cues reinforce the sleek, sporting stance of the Azure

INTRODUCTION

Stylish and powerful, the new Bentley Azure T is the world�s most elegant convertible and destined to become a future classic. With unique Bentley �T� styling cues reinforcing its sporting stance, the 500bhp Azure T delivers driver-focused performance with the ability to transport four adults in first-class, open-top luxury.

The new Azure T, specified with the high performance version of Crewe�s iconic 6? litre V8 engine, is the latest in a line of Bentley models to bear the �T� legend. The 1996 Continental coupe was the first modern Bentley �T�, followed in 2002 by the Arnage T, both flagship models with a distinctive sporting character and thunderous performance.

The Azure�s already striking form is now enhanced by 20-inch 5-spoke wheels and tyres, �Le Mans� front wing vents, dark tint matrix grille and a sculpted, retractable Flying �B� mascot.

For the performance-oriented Azure T, the twin-turbocharged V8 engine produces 500bhp and 1000 Nm of torque � an 11 per cent increase in power and a 14 per cent increase in torque over its 450bhp/875 Nm Azure stable mate.

The famous Bentley wave of torque is even more prodigious than before and performance is significantly raised with a top speed of 179 mph (288 km/h) and a 0-60 mph time of just 5.2 seconds (0-100 km/h in 5.5 sec). Member of the Board, Sales and Marketing, Stuart McCullough comments:

�The new Azure T reflects our passion for creating the world�s most exhilarating and prestigious convertibles that, true to the Bentley T tradition, blend sophistication with a powerful presence.�

BENTLEY AZURE T � NEWS IN BRIEF

Exterior design styling changes, as standard, include:

* 20-inch five-spoke �Bright Finish� alloy wheels
* Retractable �Flying B� bonnet mascot
* Dark tint matrix upper and lower grilles
* �Le Mans� lower front wing air vents
* Bentley �Jewel� fuel filler cap
* Twin exhaust tail pipes
* Choice of 42 exterior paint colours
*

Interior design enhancements, as standard, include:

* Diamond quilting to seats and door panels
* Drilled alloy brake and accelerator pedals
* �Engine-turned� aluminium finish to fascia
* Instrument faces in black
* Embroidered �Bentley� emblems to front seats and rear seat centre
* iPod/USB interface
* Choice of 8 unbleached veneers and 25 hides from full Bentley range
* Knurled finish to: organ stops, mirror adjustors, door handles (interior and exterior), light switch and seat lumbar controls
* Knurled & chromed gear knob

Further enhancements to the standard Azure T specification include:

* Large display audio head unit with Secure Digital (SD) memory card slot
* Hide covered boot rail

Further enhancements to the Azure T optional specification include:

* �Naim for Bentley� premium audio system delivering the world�s best in-car sound stage and featuring 10 speakers, a dual channel sub-woofer and an 1100 Watt amplifier, plus eight individual Digital Signal Processor (DSP) modes to reproduce true emotions and a �live� concert-like experience.

Arnage T powertrain with 6? litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing 500bhp and 1000 Nm of torque � increases of 11% and 14 % respectively

Top speed raised to 179 mph (288 km/h).

0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds (0-100 km/h in 5.5 seconds).

Acceleration to 100 mph cut to 12.1 seconds (0-160 km/h in 12.0 seconds).

Six-speed ZF automatic transmission with sophisticated locking torque converter provides fast yet ultra-smooth gearshifts

Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) logic system improves dynamic response and handling with less intrusive intervention when a reduction in grip is detected

Tyre Pressure Monitoring System fitted as standard
A UNIQUE OPEN-TOP MOTORING EXPERIENCE

Based on the Azure, the Azure T offers a range of discreet exterior cues that further enhance its powerful stance and hint at its increased performance potential. Key ingredients of its distinctive appearance include design features 20-inch five-spoke, two-piece alloy wheels and �Le Mans� lower front wing air vents.

Further distinguishing points from the Azure are standard features such as dark-tinted upper and lower grilles, �jewel� fuel filler cap (made from billet aluminium) and door mirror mountings finished in body colour.

Like the Bentley Brooklands, the Azure T sports the iconic Flying �B� mascot, which can retract neatly into the grille surround. Originally designed by motoring artist F. Gordon Crosby, the �B� was first used on the 1930 Bentley 8-Litre.

With exterior lines that echo visual elements of the Bentley Mk.6 from 1946, the Azure was enthusiastically received on its original debut as a concept car at the Los Angeles Show in January 2005. Now, as the Azure T makes its own �debut� at LA, Raul Pires, Manager of Exterior design for Bentley Motors, notes:

�The Azure�s proportions provided us with the ideal platform to work with when creating the new Azure T. The prominent haunches and �supermodel� body inspired our designers to create a new interpretation of a Bentley convertible with the accent placed on a more muscular, sporting stance.�

Bentley�s designers highlight the 1955 Park Ward S1 Drophead Coupe and 1995 Azure as the main influences for the current Azure and Azure T. Like the �50s convertible, the car has a deep body with a single feature line that runs along both flanks and rises at the powerful rear haunches before spearing off at the rear of the car. Similarly, the Azure T�s fast and flowing roofline is echoed in its seven-bow canvas roof that gives the car a visible sporting profile when raised.

Prominent wheel arches grace a slender, narrowing boot that results in a �horse shoe� trailing edge. This elegant shape is reminiscent of the first Crewe-built Bentley, the Mk.6, and the overall effect is a subtle hint at the power and performance that lies beneath the Azure T�s bodywork.

Delicate brightware detailing accentuates the flowing lines of the Azure T and this includes rear tail-lamp bezels, exhaust finishes and slender strips that run the length of the car.

Significant time and effort has gone into making the Azure T�s folding roof attractive as well as highly functional. Operated hydraulically at the touch of a switch, the impressive, three-layer canvas roof is elegantly stowed beneath the rear parcel shelf in a matter of 25 seconds. Because the roof is held in a separate well area, there is no impact on the generous boot space which was designed to hold two sets of golf clubs and hand luggage.
EFFORTLESS PERFORMANCE FROM MIGHTY V8

The engine and transmission of the Azure T are identical to those already employed in the high-performance Arnage T and Arnage Final Series saloons. In this specification, Bentley�s remarkable all-aluminium 6? litre V8 engine produces 500 bhp (507PS/373kW) and 1000 Nm (738lb ft) of torque � with over 90 per cent of that torque available between 1,800 and 3,800 rev/min � figures that ensure the signature Bentley �wave of torque� delivers effortless performance for a unique open-top convertible driving experience.

Each of these hand-made V8 engines comes with a black-finish air intake manifold bearing the signature of the team leader who oversaw its construction by Bentley technicians in the Crewe factory. The six-speed ZF automatic transmission ensures optimum flexibility, response and refinement. Three transmission modes (Drive, Sport and Manual) allow the driver to take full advantage of the powerful 500 bhp V8 engine.

A sophisticated electronic management system provides fast yet smooth gearshifts regardless of how the car is being driven. Another important feature of the latest Azure T is the separation of the sports suspension and sports gearbox settings, allowing the driver to select their preference for each system independently � via a �Sport� switch on the dashboard for the suspension and by positioning the gearlever for the transmission�s Sport mode.

Bentley�s V8 guarantees outstanding performance levels. From standstill, acceleration to 60 mph is achieved in just 5.2 seconds (0-100 km/h 5.5 seconds), 100 mph reached in 12.1 seconds (160 km/h in 12.0 seconds) and a top speed of 179 mph (288 km/h) is possible.
DYNAMIC HANDLING, SUPERB RIDE AND AWESOME BRAKING

The Azure�s double wishbone front and rear suspension is carried over to the Azure T unaltered. Set-up and fine-tuned to give a refined ride that best suits the character of this convertible Bentley, the system features coil springs with computer-controlled, adaptive electro-hydraulic dampers and automatic ride-height control with auto-load compensation.

The Azure T�s suspension delivers impressive body control in all driving conditions, while the new five-spoke, two-piece 8.5J x 20-inch Sports alloy wheels with 255/40 ZR20 Pirelli P Zero tyres further improve handling and road holding.

As an option, Azure T owners may specify an upgraded braking system with carbon/silicon carbide, cross-drilled brake ventilated discs. Measuring 420 x 40 mm (front) and 356 x 28 mm (rear), these discs are the largest fitted to any production car on sale today. With eight-piston callipers, the brakes provide impressive deceleration and also give an 8 kg reduction in unsprung weight, benefiting steering response, ride suppleness and acceleration.

This lightweight braking system ensures virtually fade-free use, time after time, and superb resistance to disc distortion under high thermal conditions. Under normal use, the brake discs will last the lifetime of the car and pad life is doubled compare to the standard system.

For Azure T and its Bentley stable mates, the Traction Control system is calibrated with the aim of avoiding all unnecessary reductions in engine torque. The ESP logic system, which is set up to allow spirited handling without any reduction in stability or safety, monitors the car�s overall stability rather than simply loss of grip to the wheels. This reduces the amount of intervention required and restores power earlier and more progressively, allowing the power of the Azure T�s V8 engine to be fully exploited.

The Bentley Azure T enjoys an 11 per cent power and 14 per cent torque increase compared with Azure and the strength and stiffness of the original chassis are such that no changes were deemed necessary, as Brian Gush, Director of Powertrain and Chassis, explains:

�The Azure chassis has always had an immense potential and this enables us to offer the extra power of our 500 bhp V8 engine and the driver-focused qualities of a true Bentley T without compromising ride comfort.�

Compared with the Arnage, the Azure T benefits from significant stiffening members. These strengthened steel parts lie in the sill section of the car and extend into the A-pillars that form the windscreen frame. Beneath the front and rear of the Azure, carbon fibre cross-bracing members reinforce the whole bodyshell, while adding far less weight than steel.

Strengthening has also been applied to the body structure behind the rear seats where an advanced rollover protection system is fitted. This immediately detects if the car is in danger of inverting and deploys two hoops that are integrated within the rear headrests. In conjunction with the strengthened front windscreen frame, these are capable of supporting 2.5 times the entire weight of an over-turned car.
EXQUISITE CRAFTSMANSHIP

Befitting its role as a new Bentley flagship convertible, the Azure T embodies a range of standard features that were previously unavailable or only available as cost options on the Azure. The seats and door panels have Diamond Quilting, the fascia features an �engine-turned� aluminium finish (reminiscent of 1920s racing Bentleys), and the instrument faces are finished in Black rather than Parchment.

Bentley emblems are embroidered on the front seat backs and the rear seat centre, an iPod/USB interface is provided, while the full range of Bentley�s premium veneers is available, a knurled finish is applied to several handles and switches and a knurled, chrome gear knob is fitted.

The new Azure T will have a strong appeal to Bentley customers, as Trevor Gay, Personal Commissioning Manager at Mulliner (Bentley�s specialist commissioning department), explains:

�The Azure has always stood apart from the rest of the Bentley range and the higher-performance Azure T will allow customers the opportunity to use the Mulliner service to create a bespoke convertible to their exact specification.�

Although many of the most desirable Mulliner options are included in Azure T as standard, Bentley anticipates that the majority of buyers will request additional enhancements. Inside, the Azure T is everything customers would expect of a bespoke Bentley, offering the highest levels of hand-craftsmanship to a small, discerning audience. The interior offers a spacious, luxurious cabin to provide the ultimate in first-class, open-top travel for four adults.

As in every Bentley, craftsmanship and bespoke finishing are to the fore. Every item of trim, be it veneer, hide or chromed bezel, uses authentic materials.

Azure T is available in the full Bentley range of 42 exterior colours, 25 interior hides, and the full range of premium veneers, plus the comprehensive line-up of Mulliner options and its bespoke colour-matching service that enable Bentley owners to create a uniquely personal car.

Of course, the nature of a convertible means that its interior is often on display as much as its exterior and Bentley�s design team knew that the Azure T�s spacious cabin should make a strong a statement. Consequently, warm and inviting leather hide extend past the seats and onto the parcel shelf and this emphasises the dimensions of the rear compartment.

A new audio head unit with larger display screen and an SD (secure digital) memory card slot instead of the single CD slot is fitted. At the rear, a new hide-covered boot rail with coordinated leather trim and a chrome strip along the top edge gives the load area a tidier, premium appearance.

All Azure T models come with an iPod Interface linked to the Infotainment system, enabling customers to play their favourite music through the car�s audio system. The system is supplied with connectors for iPod, USB, Mini USB and a 3.5 mm AUX jack and includes a 12 volt power outlet for charging purposes.

As an option, Azure T buyers can specify the Naim for Bentley premium audio system. Created in partnership with Bentley by Naim Audio, a UK-based high end hi-fi manufacturer, this system features 10 speakers, a dual-channel sub-woofer and an 1100 Watt amplifier, plus eight individual DSP modes to reproduce true emotions and a �live� concert-like experience.

In Azure T the sub-woofers are located in the rear passenger footwells and contained within a special enclosure to ensure the sound of this pure music remains within the open cabin.

BENTLEY AZURE T � TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

POWERTRAIN
Engine type Twin-turbocharged
90-degree V8 Twin-turbocharged 90-degree V8
Engine displacement 6? litres, 6761 cc 6? litres, 6761 cc
Maximum power 500 bhp / 507 PS / 373 kW
@ 4,200 rev/min 450 bhp / 456 PS / 336kW @ 4100 rev/min
Maximum torque 738 lb ft / 1,000 Nm @
3,200 rev/min 645 lb ft / 875Nm @ 1,800 rev/min
Compression ratio 7.8:1 7.8:1
Emission standards EU IV / US LEV II EU IV / US LEV II
Transmission 6-speed ZF automatic gearbox with semi-automatic and sports functions 6-speed ZF automatic gearbox with semi-automatic and sports functions

PERFORMANCE
0-60 mph 5.2 sec 5.6 sec
0-100 km/h 5.5 sec 5.9 sec
0-100 mph 12.1 sec 13.4 sec
0-160 km/h 12.0 sec 13.3 sec
Maximum speed 179 mph/288 km/h 171 mph/274 km/h

CHASSIS
Steering 3.18 turns lock-to-lock
Type Speed sensitive, hydraulic power assisted, rack and pinion steering system

Suspension Double wishbones front and rear, with coil springs and computer-controlled adaptive, electro-hydraulic damping system (ARC) and automatic ride-height control with auto load compensation and headlamp levelling

Braking (front/rear) Micro-alloy ventilated discs
Hydraulically boosted front and rear circuits with stability control system

FUEL CONSUMPTION
Urban 28.8 (litres/100km) / 9.8 mpg
Extra-urban 14.1 (litres/100km) / 20.1 mpg
Combined 19.5 (litres/100km) / 14.5 mpg
EU drive cycle CO2
Fuel type 465 g/km (combined)
98 (95) RON

DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES
Overall length 5410 mm (212.60 in)
Overall width 2125 mm (83.66 in) including door mirrors
Overall height 1492 mm (58.74 in)
Wheelbase 3116 mm (122.68 in)
Front track 1608 mm (63.13 in)
Rear track 1608 mm (63.13 in)
Width 1900 mm (74.8 in) with mirrors folded
Luggage compartment 0.316m3 / 310 litres / 10.95 cu ft

WEIGHTS
Kerb weight 2695 kg (5699 lbs)
Gross vehicle weight 3065 kg (7948 lbs)
Front axle weight 1535 kg (3384 lbs)
Rear axle weight 1615 kg (3560 lbs)
Fuel tank capacity 96.0 litres (25.3 US gallons)
BENTLEY AZURE T � STANDARD FEATURES

EXTERIOR FEATURES
o Choice of 42 exterior paint colours
o Retractable �Flying B� bonnet mascot
o Body coloured headlamp bezels
o Dark tint upper and lower grilles
o �Le Mans� lower front wing vents
o Bentley �jewel� fuel filler cap
o Twin oval exhaust tail pipes
o 20-inch five-spoke Sport aluminium alloy wheels
o Body coloured door mirror mountings
o Black finish intake manifold for engine

INTERIOR FEATURES
o Leather hides with choice of 25 colours
o Diamond quilting to seats and door panels
o Treadplates featuring AZURE name
o Multiple choice of unbleached premium wood veneers from full range
o Bright engine spin �spun aluminium� fascia finish
o Drilled alloy brake and accelerator
o Instrument faces in black
o Embroidered Marque emblems to front seat backs and rear seat centre
o iPod/USB interface with 12-volt power outlet
o Knurled finish to organ stops (front and rear), door mirror adjusters, interior door handles, exterior door handles, light switch and seat lumbar controls.
o Knurled chrome and hide sporting gear lever
o Leather trimmed boot rail
o Eight-speaker audio system with 6-disc CD changer in the boot and SD card slot in new dash-mounted head unit with larger display

SEATING / CONTROLS
o Memory facility linking driver�s seat, exterior mirrors and steering wheel
o Electrically adjustable tilt steering wheel with cruise control switches
o Electrochromic self-dimming interior rear-view mirror
o Electrochromic door mirrors dip on selection of reverse
o One-touch front window operation
o Multi-zone air-conditioning system
o Dehumidifier plus pollen and dust micro-filters

SAFETY & SECURITY
o Dual front, plus front and rear thorax and curtain airbags
o Pre-tensioned and load-limited seatbelts
o Tyre pressure monitoring system
o Xenon dipped beam headlamps
o ESP (Electronic Stability Programme)
o Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA)
o Park Distance Control (front and rear)
o Multi-function programmable alarm and immobiliser
o Perimeter monitor with inclination sensor
o Volumetric interior monitor with glass break sensor
o Central locking and deadlock system
BENTLEY AZURE T � OPTIONS AVAILABLE

REGULAR OPTIONS
o Naim for Bentley 1100 Watt premium audio system with 10 speakers
o Dark tint 20-inch five-spoke Sport aluminium alloy wheels
o Dark tint engine-turned aluminium fascia finish
o Carbon silicon carbide cross-drilled disc brakes

MULLINER OPTIONS (principal options only listed)
o Leather hides from previous Bentley model ranges
o Leather hide colours matched to customer specification
o Alternative premium veneers
o NavTrak ADR (Automatic Driver Recognition) with 24-hour car location and tracking (UK and Europe only)

SERVICE & WARRANTY
o Service intervals 10,000 miles or 12 months
o 3 Years unlimited mileage warranty

KICHERER CL 65 Coupé

mybb@mybb.ru (wreck) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 18:20:22 +0300

Kicherer CL 65 Coupé: First Class Gliding

Elegance, luxury and force. Those are the words that best describe the current CL 65 Coupé, since it offers more than enough of each of those three qualities.

Elegance

The basis is provided by the CL 65�s powerfully elegant body. Kicherer refines its exterior with carbon components of superior quality. This carbon package includes a front grill, mirror shells, a rear diffuser and a front apron with a deflector made of the precious material. The chassis moves the car about 25 millimetres closer to the tarmac and provides it with a much sportier characteristic. At the rear, the mirror-finished stainless steel exhaust system with four opulent tailpipes is merged into a dynamical unity that provides acoustic qualities as well.

The 9 and 10 x 20� Kicherer RS-X lightweight wheels are a further highlight and will be available from the first quarter of 2009.

Due to its long spokes, the rim appears to be even larger, but, without loosing its elegance.

Luxury

The interior allows the passengers to indulge in pure luxury. Exclusive quilted nappa leather seats, a hand-worked shag pile carpet covering the entire legroom, carbon intarsia and a fitting alcantara ceiling.

Force

Under the bonnet, a real power plant is lurking. Originally, the V12 biturbo had already been blessed with 612 hp and 1,000 Nm, but the performance has still been increased. After the Kicherer treatment, 650 hp and 1.200 Nm are waiting to be explored and push the heavy luxury glider from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 4.2 seconds. The top speed is only reached at 320 km/h (regulated).

In order to counterbalance those forces, Kicherer has added a high-performance braking system with composite brake discs. And, in order to transform those forces into performance, Kicherer has chosen a sports rear axle with differential lock, a modified translation and a reprogrammed transmission control system.

Thus, the Kicherer CL 65 is the perfect incarnation of its three key qualities �elegance�, �luxury� and �force� � a trinity which is much more than the sum of its parts.

BRABUS Mercedes GLK WIDESTAR

mybb@mybb.ru (wreck) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 18:17:22 +0300

SEMA 2008: BRABUS Mercedes GLK WIDESTAR

The presidential elections in the US will take place on November 4, 2008. At the same time voting starts for the best customized version of the new Mercedes GLK-Class at the SEMA Show 2008 in Las Vegas. BRABUS is the only German company to participate in this competition sponsored by Mercedes-Benz USA. There are two ways to vote: Visitors to the show can inspect the BRABUS-tuned Mercedes GLK WIDESTAR as part of the BRABUS exhibit and can cast their vote right there. Tuning fans from around the world can vote online at the Mercedes-Benz USA website (http://microsites.mbusa.com/microsite/g … sema/index) where all four competitors will be featured in detailed videos.

The BRABUS entry for this competition is a brilliant example the entire know-how of the world�s largest independent automobile tuner, not in the least because of its three clear coats that cover the piano-lacquer-black exterior paint. But that�s not all: The SUV also sets itself apart with sporty yet elegant BRABUS WIDESTAR fender flares, rocker panels and completely new aprons for front and rear as well as a roof spoiler.

BRABUS chose a Mercedes GLK320 BlueTEC as the basis for the competition car. The BRABUS engine specialists have developed the BRABUS PowerXtra D6 BLUE power kit for the eco-friendly diesel version of the GLK. The kit increases power output the cleanest diesel on the market by 47 hp (47 bhp) / 35 kW and peak torque by 70 Nm (52 lb-ft). With a maximum power output of 258 hp (255 bhp) / 190 kW at 3,700 rpm and a peak torque of 610 Nm (450 lb-ft) between 1,600 and 2,400 rpm, the tuned diesel SUV sprints from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 6.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 240 km/h (150 mph). The BRABUS stainless-steel sport exhaust lends the common-rail engine a more sonorous exhaust note and its four chrome-plated tailpipes play a major part in the striking rear appearance of the five-door.

To further optimize the handling of the 4x4 and to give it even more spectacular looks the ride height of the GLK was lowered by some 30 millimeters and the SUV was fitted with forged three-piece BRABUS Monoblock VI wheels in size 10.5Jx21. These king-size light-alloy wheels offer space for a BRABUS high-performance brake system with 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers and 400 x 36 millimeter (15.8 x 1.4 inches) discs on the front axle and six-piston aluminum fixed calipers and discs in size 380 x 28 millimeters (15.0 x 1.1 inches).

The BRABUS interior designers also made a generous contribution to this unique GLK jewel. The company-own upholstery shop created a two-tone black and cognac fully leather interior perfect down to the last detail. The upholstery design itself is as striking as it is elaborate. The center parts of the seats and the door panels are sewn in a diamond-shaped pattern as is the entire vehicle flooring. The seams for this pattern alone used 2.7 kilometers (1.7 miles) of the finest thread, every inch sewn with utmost precision.

Additional exclusive highlights include piano-lacquer black wood trim that precisely matches the exterior color, and custom-tailored seatback consoles for the front seats that each house a seven-inch color LCD monitor and a DVD player.

Volkswagen CC Eco Performance Concept

mybb@mybb.ru (wreck) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 18:14:59 +0300

2008 SEMA: Volkswagen CC Eco Performance Concept

311 HP Super CC ups the performance ante in luxury for the people

Powerful performance meets luxury in the Super CC performance concept Volkswagen unveiled at the 2008 SEMA show in Las Vegas.

The Performance CC brings a sleek exterior treatment highlighted by black chrome exterior accents, grey pearl paint with custom front and rear bumper, side panels and machined aluminum spoiler. The black treatment continues inside with high-gloss piano black accents offset by matte black graphics. Customer black leather Recaro seats and matching floor mats are highlighted with white piping.

While the Performance CC looks striking, the upgrades will get hearts racing, the 2.0L TSI engine has been upgraded with an APR stage 3 turbocharger system with three performance levels. In Full Power mode the Performance CC brings 311 hp and 313 lbs. ft. torque; GT mode offers 252 hp and 268 lbs. ft. of torque; and in the Eco mode 222 hp and 236 lbs. ft. of torque. Also included is the APR stainless steel performance exhaust system. Key fact to take note of is that in the Eco performance mode, horsepower went up, as well as fuel economy. A production 2.0T CC automatic gets 28 hwy/19 city and our CC in Eco mode gets 33 hwy, 27 city. Even the full power mode showed a fuel economy increase!

The Performance CC sits on custom designed 10-spoke, 20-inch wheels and high performance 245/30 R20 Yokahama tires with an H&R street coil over sport suspension kit. With all this power to handle, Volkswagen has upgraded the brakes to provide extra power to stop. The Performance CC features 14-inch Brembo brakes with 4-piston Aluminum Alloy Brake Calipers and 355x32mm 2-Piece Floating Cross Drilled Discs with Billet Aluminum Hats.

The Performance CC was designed by the Volkswagen Design Center in California with assistance from APR, LLC (wwwgoapr.com), Recaro, H&R Suspension and Brembo North America.

edo competition Porsche Cayenne GTS

mybb@mybb.ru (wreck) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 18:12:51 +0300

edo GTS with 450 hp and a top speed of 270 km/h (168 mph)

* Power increase to 450 hp and 530 Nm (391 ft-lb)
* Attractive aerodynamics package featuring sporty styling
* 22-inch light alloy wheels with custom-painted centers
* High performance braking system
* Sport suspension

Form and function combined � It shouldn�t come as a surprise that the Porsche Cayenne is highly popular. edo competition Motorsport is now offering more power for the Porsche Cayenne GTS and an aerodynamics package that transforms this SUV into a true powerhouse with the alluring character of a sports car.

The Porsche Cayenne GTS provides the basis for the edo GTS. The figures send a clear message: The engine generates 450 horsepower (331 kW) and a maximum torque of 530 Nm (391 ft-lb) at 3,800 rpm. The sprint from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) takes a scant 6.4 seconds and the top speed is an unbelievable 270 km/h (168 mph). This impressive performance is achieved thanks to new high-flow catalytic converters, performance air filter inserts and a new ECU calibration optimized on the dyno.

The edo GTS is also equipped with a new brake system. Huge six-piston fixed mono-block calipers clamp down on thicker and larger diameter brake rotors as well as upsized pads in the front. Rotor dimensions: 380 x 38 mm (15 x 1.5 inches).

For a matching appearance edo competition offers a sport suspension system adjustable in height, compression and rebound damping. The height adjustment range is TUV approved. There are 14 settings for compression damping while the rebound damping is continuously variable. The front and rear body height is set individually according to the customer�s wishes. Finishing off the look is a new hood featuring power domes and a new lower front skirt with 4 fog lights and mesh inserts.

Ideal road contact is provided by new 22 inch forged wheels with stainless steel outer rims: 10 x 22 inch with 295/30 ZR22 tires up front and 11 x 22 inch with 295/30 ZR22 in the rear. Custom-painted wheel centers are an option.

As with all edo competition models, we set no limit to our customers� imaginations when it comes to the interior. Color-coded instrument dials, aluminium pedal sets or lavish leather upholstery, individual requests are accommodated and executed with quality.

Geneva 2008: Land Rover LRX Concept Black

mybb@mybb.ru (wreck) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 18:05:45 +0300

Geneva 2008: Land Rover LRX Concept Black

* Land Rover shows two different versions of its LRX concept in Geneva -desirable, premium and compact 4x4s which extend the definition of �breadth of capability�
* Brand new, black and silver version of LRX designed to highlight the concept's suitability for contemporary personalisation
* Conceived as capable of having a range of powertrains, including a 2.0-litre turbodiesel hybrid, with potential CO2 emissions of 120 g/km and fuel economy of 60 mpg (4.7 l/100 km)
* Demonstrates Land Rover�s commitment to sustainability � with new technologies, lightweight design and environmentally-responsible materials
* A bold evolution of Land Rover design � but still unmistakably a Land Rover
* Impeccable attention to detail and precision of execution underpin LRX�s premium credentials

A striking black and silver version of Land Rover's acclaimed LRX cross-coupe concept makes its global debut at the 78e Salon International de l'Automobile, alongside the original white LRX revealed earlier to widespread acclaim (at NAIAS, Detroit, in January).

"With its metallic black paintwork, silver roof and precisely detailed exterior features, the second version of the LRX concept is designed to show how well the vehicle can deliver a contemporary example of personalisation," says Gerry McGovern, Land Rover's design director.

"The LRX concept already has an abundance of character, but you can tune the appearance to reflect a customer's own personality and lifestyle. Clever use of colour and subtle additional details enable the vehicle to be tailored to suit an individual's style, without compromising the clean design of the LRX," he adds.

No production plans have been confirmed yet for the LRX concept, and both versions will now be used to gauge public, dealer and media response to Land Rover's cross-coupe concept, as well as its interesting new opportunities for vehicle personalisation.

"We were hugely excited by the positive response that the original LRX concept generated when we showed it at the Detroit Show a few weeks ago," says Phil Popham, managing director of Land Rover. "But we've always seen scope for LRX to provide a whole showroom of different models, with a range of powertrains including hybrids and bio-fuel capable engines."

Using lightweight material technologies, Land Rover has developed a series of bespoke features for the black and silver LRX that add to the vehicle's individuality and flexibility. The removable carbon composite roof panel contrasts with the silver-coloured roof, and has integral anchor points for fixing snowboards and other sports equipment. The sleek black roof bars provide another option for roof-top loads, and a compact step above the rear bumper provides for easy roof-top access. More carbon composite is used for the protective underbody plates at front and rear, while new, lightweight alloy wheels with unique-design tyres signal purposefulness. And to protect the vehicle when the going gets tough - in either urban or off-road situations - there are smart, resilient mouldings on bumpers and sills.

"The black and silver LRX shows a real world breadth of capability. Its all-terrain ability, extra protection and load-carrying versatility help emphasise that it's an authentic Land Rover, while its compact dimensions, agile handling and efficient powertrain make it a practical proposition for everyday driving," says Phil Popham.

BOLD EVOLUTION

The LRX concept marks a bold evolution of Land Rover design, signalling the brand�s potential shift into new areas of the market, while remaining true to its core values. As the company celebrates its 60th anniversary during 2008, the three-door LRX, with its more compact size, lighter weight and sustainability-focused technologies, clearly addresses the needs of a changing world and offers the potential of 120 g/km CO2 emissions and fuel economy of 60 mpg (4.7 l/100km) on the European combined cycle.

�The LRX concept delivers the powerful message that we are as serious about sustainability as we are confident about the continuing relevance and desirability of our vehicles,� says Phil Popham, Land Rover�s managing director. �LRX is in every respect a Land Rover, but it�s a very different Land Rover.

�LRX has unmistakable Land Rover design and the breadth of capability that you�d expect from our vehicles. But it carries those essentials into a segment where the brand has never been before, and with a proposed level of efficiency that would make it one of the cleanest vehicles in its class. It is Land Rover�s way of affirming the brand�s responsible approach to future product development. At this stage, LRX is purely a concept, designed to help us develop our thinking as well as gauge customer reaction � but this feels like a hugely exciting direction to take.�

COMPACT AND PREMIUM

LRX is described as a cross-coupe and dramatically extends the scope of what Land Rover represents. Though 149 mm (5.9 in) shorter than the Freelander 2 / LR2 and 205 mm (8.1 in) lower, LRX is conceived as a premium car, designed to appeal to new customers in the luxury and executive sector � those who want many of the benefits of a 4x4 and the presence of a larger vehicle, but in a more compact package.

The first all-new Land Rover revealed since Gerry McGovern became the company�s design director, LRX is a natural extension of the Land Rover range, complementing the existing models and helping to define a new segment. Its many recognisable Land Rover design cues include bold new interpretations of the signature clamshell bonnet, the floating roof and the solid �wheel-at-each-corner� stance.

�LRX is a design born out of passion for the brand, but it is different, relevant, engaging and exciting � because Land Rover has never built ordinary cars,� says Gerry McGovern. �LRX has a highly desirable identity and the design alludes strongly to its capability, while clearly underlining our forward-looking philosophy � it�s a Land Rover that would be comfortable on Bond Street or Fifth Avenue, but wouldn�t flinch at getting its wheels dirty.�

Its compact size is one of its greatest assets, which will appeal to anyone who wants the versatile ability of an agile 4x4 with the cachet of the Land Rover name. In addition, its lower weight and the reduced aerodynamic drag resulting from the smaller frontal area would help give significant gains in fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions.

HIGHLY EFFICIENT POWERTRAIN

The white LRX is conceived as a highly fuel-efficient 2.0-litre, turbodiesel hybrid, capable of running on bio-diesel. In combination with other Land Rover technologies, this powertrain could reduce fuel consumption by as much as 30% compared with other 4x4s of comparable size, and reduce CO2 emissions to approximately 120 g/km.

LRX�s improved efficiencies are the result of advanced mechanical and electrical energy-saving elements, which are combined to achieve cumulative gains in many areas.

The concept�s integrated Electric Rear Axle Drive (ERAD) is particularly significant in Land Rover terms as it would allow LRX to use electric drive alone at lower speeds while retaining full (even improved) 4x4 ability in tough conditions. Unlike the hybrid technology used by some 4x4 rivals, Land Rover�s unique solution retains mechanical drive to all four wheels.

Off-road, the ERAD would provide additional torque only when it is needed, and with maximum electrical torque from standstill, this solution offers even better low-speed control and enhanced pull-away on difficult surfaces (such as packed snow or wet grass) or when towing.

On the road, the ERAD would allow low-speed traffic creep up to 20 mph (32 km/h) on electric power alone, with the Integrated Starter-Generator (ISG) function re-starting the engine automatically when needed. The electric drive would then continue to assist the mechanical drive until the engine is running in its most efficient range, benefiting both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

The ISG would also stop the engine automatically when the vehicle halts in traffic, so the engine does not idle needlessly, and restart it quickly and smoothly as required.

The electrical drive system uses power stored in a dedicated high-voltage, high-capacity, lithium-ion battery pack, independent of the normal 12-volt battery. This is charged by a regenerative braking energy system, also working through the ERAD.

LRX also incorporates Hill Descent Control and Land Rover�s acclaimed and user-friendly Terrain Response system, which optimises vehicle drivability and comfort, as well as maximising traction. On LRX, this has five modes, including the new and efficiency-focused �Eco� mode. Principally for on-road use, this configures all the integrated elements of the car�s system for optimised fuel economy. The other four Terrain Response modes provided are sports (also new), general driving, sand and �grass/gravel/snow� (a single programme for slippery surfaces).

EXTENDING �BREADTH OF CAPABILITY�

The design of LRX was developed entirely in-house by Gerry McGovern�s team, driven by a passion to create a car that truly represents Land Rover�s future thinking. It has a very dynamic profile, with a distinctive taper to the floating roofline and a muscular shoulder running the length of the car, accentuated by the rising beltline. The glazing wraps right around LRX, with no exposed pillars, creating a bold design graphic. The architectural structure of the upper body can be glimpsed through the windows and roof � echoing some of the best contemporary buildings.

Pushing the wheels out to the four corners helps give the car its purposeful stance, and its front-end design makes a powerful and instantly recognisable statement of Land Rover�s identity. The carefully sculpted corners dramatically reduce the car�s visual overhangs front and rear.

There are new interpretations of Land Rover�s traditional clamshell bonnet, distinctive headlamps and perforated two-bar grille. The car has jewel-like, tapering blade indicator clusters front and rear, and the wheelarches are wide but softly integrated, housing highly polished, 20-inch alloy wheels.

The fine detailing includes additional polished aluminium in the form of side-strips, side and bonnet vents, and the exterior door releases, which are concealed in the car�s shoulders. Graphic details such as these appear to be �punched out� of the smooth body surfaces rather than overlaid on them. The �frosted� white paint colour was especially developed for LRX and its visual depth helps to highlight the car�s form.

IMPECCABLE, PREMIUM INTERIOR

The interior of the LRX concept clearly demonstrates how a compact Land Rover can still be roomy, practical, versatile � and sophisticated. The impeccably executed cabin features a combination of soft leathers in rich tan and dark chocolate, with polished aluminium details, while the visible structures of the seats, instrument panel and roof architecture not only give a highly distinctive look but also help save weight.

The �fast� sloping architecture of the centre console reflects LRX�s sporty dynamics, as does the distinctive binnacle over the instrument cluster. The electronic display uses �floating� LCD graphics to create a three-dimensional look that can be personalised for different drivers, as well as interacting with LRX�s touch-screen display.

The instrument graphics present data in layers depending on their level of importance, to give maximum relevant information with minimum distraction. When appropriate, displayed information transfers between the main instrument cluster and the touch screen. Further adding to LRX�s involving personality, different Terrain Response modes are matched by changes in the cabin�s background �mood� lighting colour � green in �Eco�, red in sports and blue in general driving and off-road modes.

CLEVER USE OF SPACE

Although LRX is compact, clever use of space makes it impressively roomy, and many neat design touches maximise its practicality. A second touch-screen area gives a fully interactive display and control for LRX�s iPhone docking facility.

On either side of the horizontally-split, power-operated tailgate, removable and power-adjustable speakers include an iPod docking station. There is also a coolbox, plus a bottle chiller that can be clipped to the lowered tailgate. The tailgate also has integral aluminium cupholders between two padded seating areas, for a new twist on the idea of a traditional Land Rover tailgate lunch.

Every interior design detail combines to maximise both actual space and the feeling of space. The clear roof is supported by a �spider� frame running into the A-pillars, and the rear quarter pillars have glazed apertures for improved visibility and a lighter feel in the cabin.

LRX�s distinctive seats �float� on individual plinths and have open frameworks to reinforce the impression of light, airy interior space � while also creating useful under-seat and under-floor stowage areas. The clever, articulated mechanism of the powered seat backs maximises interior flexibility and helps create a large, flat storage area when needed. With the rear seats folded forward, two mountain bikes can be fitted upright behind them, with front wheels removed and stored in dedicated slots in the floor. Alternatively, skis and surfboards can be accommodated in the generous load space, which has multiple tie-down options and a through-loading option.

�Flexible load-carrying capacity is fundamental to the concept of LRX,� says Gerry McGovern. �With this car, we�ve interpreted the idea of Land Rover �breadth of capability� to be more about versatility and on-road dynamics than about ultimate off-roading. This meets the needs of the new customers that we believe would be attracted by this type of car; they will not only appreciate LRX�s flexibility, but will also recognise that it has been packaged with the highest levels of precision.�

SUSTAINABLE PRODUCT DESIGN

The exposed structures of the seats, roof and instrument panel are just one novel approach that Land Rover�s designers have taken to reduce vehicle weight. Another example is replacing the glass for the side windows and roof with polycarbonate from SABIC Innovative Plastics, which is around 40% lighter. The polycarbonate also blocks virtually all UV light (protecting interior materials from fading), while special nano-technology within the material reduces infra-red transmission, helping to keep the interior cool.

Even the choice of premium-quality trim materials reflects Land Rover�s deep thinking about sustainability, with vegetable-tanned leather (chromium-free, so better for recycling), extensive use of aluminium (both lightweight and readily recyclable) and carpeting made of felt from sustainable sources. And the luxurious, vanilla-coloured �fine suede� on the door inserts and headliner is a 100% recycled material made from used plastic bottles and fibres.

�We are determined to make sustainability a key element in our future product design and the way we do business, while still creating vehicles that have a strong emotional appeal as well as fulfilling people�s practical needs,� says Phil Popham. �No single technology delivers all the answers to whole-life sustainability, but the LRX concept brings together some of the ideas for the future that interest us, integrating them into a car that we believe represents an exciting way forward for Land Rover.�

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Length: 4351 mm / 171.3 in
Width (excluding mirrors): 1895 mm / 74.6 in
Width (including mirrors): 2083 mm / 82.0 in
Height: 1535 mm / 60.4 in
Wheelbase: 2660 mm / 104.7 in
Engine (proposed): 2.0-litre turbodiesel
Fuel economy (potential): 60 mpg, 4.7 l/100 km (on European combined drive cycle)
CO2 emissions (potential): 120 g/km (on European combined drive cycle)

Ford Mustang

mybb@mybb.ru (wreck) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 18:01:57 +0300

Leaner, meaner 2010 Ford Mustang modernized

�New muscular, sculptured exterior design is a modern evolution of Mustang heritage
�Powerful new interior design features world-class craftsmanship, upgraded materials and new technology
�Performance improvements � larger wheels, retuned suspension and increased horsepower � developed from engineering experience on the race track and from special editions including the Mustang Bullitt

Muscle goes modern for 2010 as the Ford Mustang � America�s favorite muscle car for 45 years straight � hits the streets with a new exterior design; new world-class interior featuring well-crafted materials and updated technology; and a V-8 with even more horsepower and an even throatier signature Mustang exhaust sound.

Combine those elements with the new Mustang�s improved handling characteristics, more standard safety and technology features and its already-strong safety and quality performance and reputation, and it�s easy to see how the muscle car known around the world delivers on the promise of fast, fun and affordable performance for a whole new era.

�More than 9 million customers have made Mustang one of the world�s most beloved automotive and cultural icons,� said Mark Fields, Ford�s president of The Americas. �Making sure this modern legend lives up to their expectations has been a driving force for the team, which went to great lengths � gathering customer input everywhere from race tracks to Main Streets in cities throughout the U.S. � working to create the best Mustang ever.�

For 2010, the team delivered. �The new Mustang marks new levels of both power and refinement,� said Paul Randle, Mustang chief engineer. �We�ve designed and engineered this to be the next classic Mustang that everyone talks about for years and years.�

In true Mustang tradition, there is a �steed for every need.� At launch, customers can choose from a V-6 or V-8 with their choice of coupe, convertible or innovative glass roof, plus several new options and features delivering the opportunity for customers to personalize their cleaner, meaner-looking Mustangs.

�The best Mustangs have always been the ones that connect young America with the spirit of the times � and the 2010 does exactly that,� said J Mays, Ford�s group vice president of Design. �The new Mustang is close to the magnetic center of the original, fully loaded with the swagger you�d expect, but with modern refinement and attention to detail like you�ve never seen in a muscle car.�

It starts with the more aggressive grille, punctuated with the first new Mustang emblem since the car�s introduction in 1964. Both the V-6 and GT have brand-new sculptured front-end designs unique to each model. The headlamps and turn indicators, now integrated into one unit, are modern interpretations inspired by the 1970 Mustang. On the V-6, the fog lamps are located on the lower fascia, while on the GT, the fog lamps are again located in the upper grille � but are smaller than the outgoing model, similar to the original lamps of the 1967-68 models that inspired them.

�We understand Mustang�s heritage and iconic status it has in the world and as a symbol of Americana,� said Peter Horbury, executive director of Design, The Americas. �We wanted to create a face that is more muscular but unquestionably, unequivocally Mustang and carry that spirit through to the entire car.�

The exterior sheet metal, except for the fast-back roofline, is all new for 2010. At the front, the new headlamps, lower fascias, fenders and grille are capped by a powerdome hood that adds to the muscular appearance while functionally allowing for enhanced air cooling of the engine.

Mustang�s washer-fluid nozzles are tucked into the cowl, while the antenna has been moved to the rear, both of which create a cleaner appearance while also reducing wind noise.

Front rear fenders feature taut, sculptured wheel flares, like a tight skin stretched over the wheels. A classic spear character line on the doors leads to a modern indication of �hip� rear fenders. �It helps give the car aggressive, forward direction, like it�s ready to jump,� said Doug Gaffka, Mustang chief designer.

The rear end design features aggressively angled rear corners, a sculptured decklid and prominent rear badge. A rear-view camera incorporated into the spoiler is available on some models.

A notable new tail lamp design features three LED bulbs firing sequentially from the inside for turn indication. The sequential bulbs were a distinct Mustang feature in the �60s and comeback to the 2010 for the first time since then. Locating the reverse lamps vertically creates a modern version of the Ford classic three-lens taillamp.

The best of new, heritage

Cleverly combining modern technology with Mustang heritage is a signature of the 2010 model, in terms of both design and engineering.

�All of the Bullitt elements are the base foundation of the GT,� said Randle, noting engine and chassis improvements. �We also applied some improvements gained from Mustang racing. We�re learning constantly and always giving that to the customer on the base car.�

The wheel-and-tire combinations are 1 inch bigger across the board, ranging from 17 to 19 inches, which helps improve handling and braking. The shocks have been retuned on all models as well.

�We adjusted the springs, stabilizer bars and shocks to better balance the ride, steering and handling for all models, which results in a more engaging driving experience,� adds Mustang Vehicle Engineering manager Tom Barnes. �The 2010 Mustangs feel more controlled for steering and handling, yet retain a good ride balance.�

The 2010 Mustang 4.6-liter V-8 benefits from innovations from the popular Bullitt model. Power has increased to 315 horsepower.

�It runs on regular gasoline, but if you put in premium it has adaptive calibration that will give you even better mid-range torque,� Barnes said, adding that Easy Fuel�, Ford�s innovative capless fuel system, is standard on all models.

�It�s an upgrade to the most-robust, most-accessorized engine in the marketplace today,� Randle added. �No one has the reliability, no one has the upgraded options. This is a fantastic engine, proven on the race track, the drag strip and on the highway.�

AdvanceTrac� Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is now standard and complements Mustang�s all-speed traction control and anti-lock braking system (ABS).

�It gives a driver a little more confidence that in any type of condition the car will maintain what they want it to do,� Barnes said. �The 2010 Mustang improves ride quality and maintains world-class steering and handling.�

In addition to all of the design and driving dynamics improvements, the 2010 Ford Mustang is engineered to maintain its top government safety ratings. Standard safety equipment includes: dual stage front driver and passenger air bags; front seat-mounted side air bags; and, Ford�s Personal Safety System.

Interior leads in design, materials, content and comfort

Like the exterior, the interior design is all new with world-class materials and execution.

The powerful new one-piece instrument panel design is crafted in seamless soft-touch TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin) skin fully encompassing available genuine aluminum-finish panels. Mustang�s chromed-ringed gauges and dual-vane air register vents are precisely crafted and positioned.

�That�s the difference between good enough and exceptional,� said Gary Morales, Interior Design manager. �We wouldn�t accept anything less than leadership design and world-class craftsmanship.�

The instrument panel and console flow as one shape, another strong connection to Mustang heritage. The seats and arm rests have softer materials with high-quality stitching.

The new center stack design adds the latest version of Ford SYNC�, with new features 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Report. Drivers also can customize their ambient and instrument lighting through the My Color� system, which features 125 color options.

�The centerstack is quite progressive. The electronic finish panel containing the audio and climate control buttons and knobs are integrated into the finish panel,� said Kim Zielinski, Mustang Instrument Panel engineer, 2010 Mustang. �I believe the customers will really like the new look.�

In addition to the improvements in technology and comfort, drivers will notice a quieter ride. �It�s much more vault-like,� Barnes said. �But we maintained the signature Mustang sound.�

The upgraded instrument panel along with new sound deadeners added to select areas helped improve interior quietness, especially at high speeds or on rough roads. All the better to hear that famous Mustang roar.

With a completely redone exterior that echoes the classic Mustang designs of the past, an interior featuring world-class materials, numerous technology upgrades and an improved driving experience, the 2010 Mustang is poised to become the latest classic in the proud line of Ford�s iconic American muscle car.

�The 2010 Mustang is drop-dead gorgeous,� Randle said. �This car marks the best efforts of 45 years of passion and enthusiasm among the best designers, engineers and manufacturing experts in the business, and we can�t wait for everyone to see it and start driving it.�

The 2010 Mustang will be built at the Auto Alliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Mich.

ABT Sportsline Volkswagen Golf 6

mybb@mybb.ru (wreck) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 17:55:20 +0300

Essen 2008: The new ABT Golf VI � Volkswagen for individualists

"If you wish to experience value for money in the compact class, you won't be able to ignore the new Golf VI", gushes Hans-Jürgen Abt. The managing director of the world's biggest customiser of vehicles in the Volkswagen Group is very taken by the new version of the Wolfsburg "evergreen": "The new Golf is an outstanding basis for our designers and technicians - and they've already succeeded in creating five awe-inspiring predecessor series." For the ABT Golf VI, the Kempten company developed a sporty visual package perfectly geared to ABT's increases in performance and vehicle components.

�Our Golf shows that driving fun and ecological points of view do not exclude each other," said Hans-Jürgen Abt, and highlighted the 1.4 TSI, which is available in two stages of expansion: the standard 122 HP (90 kW) become 160 PS (118 kW), and the more powerful version produces a proud 200 HP (147 kW) for the road instead of only 160 HP (118 kW).

The "little" direct injection engine therefore produces almost as much as the next bigger series aggregate, the 2.0 TSI, but uses less fuel. "The magic word here is "downsizing", Hans-Jürgen Abt explained. However, for extremely power-starved fans the Allgäu company is also offering a power package for the 2.0 FSI: 210 HP (154 kW) will then become 240 PS (176 kW). The economically sensible alternative for regular drivers is the 2.0 TDI, which ABT Sportsline has given a powerful 170 HP/125 kW (standard: 140 HP/103 kW). In order for the power to be perfectly put into practice, ABT springs or the sporty ABT threaded suspension are recommended. ABT braking systems and ABT sports braking systems provide performance-related deceleration.

But a real ABT does not just have to drive racily, but also look like it. For the Golf VI the designers developed a body kit that gives the hit model a dynamic and at the same time elegant look: front grill and apron make the car look more present, while the sidebars also make the ground look closer than it is. At the back, the rear spoiler and rear apron attachment, in which the slanted 4-pipe exhaust is integrated, become the central elements. 18 or 19-inch AR and BR rims round off the appearance. Of course, the elegant wheels are also available in combination with the matching sport tyres. One thing is certain: with the new ABT components, the Golf VI rolls stylishly into the spotlight. The newbie is a real highlight, because this is the sixth time that the ABT's have produced a Volkswagen for individualists.
The new ABT Golf � Data and Facts

ABT ENGINE TECHNOLOGY

ABT POWER
Series: 1.4 TSI 122 HP/90 kW ABT Power: 170 HP /125 kW
Series: 1.4 TSI 160 HP /118 kW ABT Power: 200 HP /147 kW
Series: 2.0 TSI 210 HP /154 kW ABT Power: 240 HP /176 kW
Series: 2.0 TDI 140 HP /103 kW ABT Power: 170 HP /125 kW

ABT BODYWORK
ABT Front grill
ABT Front apron
ABT Sidebars
ABT Rear apron attachment
ABT Rear spoiler
ABT All-in package consisting of: ABT front grill, ABT front apron, ABT sidebars,
ABT rear apron attachment, ABT rear wing,
ABT wing inserts, ABT wing enlargement

ABT SPORT RIMS
ABT AR and BR; 18 and 19-inch; diamond turned or high-gloss polished.
Also available as a full wheelset with sports tyres.

ABT EXHAUST TECHNOLOGY
ABT 4-pipe exhaust

ABT CHASSIS TECHNOLOGY
ABT springs, lowering of the vehicle's centre of gravity
ABT Thread sports chassis

ABT BRAKES
ABT Braking system, brake disks 345 millimetres
ABT Sports braking system, brake disks 380 millimetres