Lamborghini Reventon

Lamborghini Reventón

The most extreme

The essence of the marque: just 20 examples of a design masterpiece

Clearly a Lamborghini, but nothing quite like it. A super car without equals: the Lamborghini Reventón is a road vehicle with an extreme specification and, at the same time, a limited edition masterpiece – a coherent style, angular with sharp lines, inspired by the very latest aeronautics. This supercar was unveiled at the last Frankfut Motorshow.

With just 20 produced, each 1 Million Euro (without taxes)  Lamborghini Reventón  is a symbol of extreme exclusivity, yet still offering the extraordinary performance that makes the Reventón so unrivalled: under the completely autonomous design, the Reventón possesses the entire technical and dynamic competence of the twelve cylinder Lamborghini.

Lamborghini prides itself on being the extraordinary manufacturer of extreme super sports cars without compromise. Sensuality and provocation characterise every Lamborghini, with an aggressively innovative style. “However, the Reventón is the most extreme of all, a true automotive superlative. Our designers at the Lamborghini Style Centre took the technical base of the Murciélago LP640 and compressed and intensified its DNA, its genetic code,” affirms Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A.

Born in Sant’Agata Bolognese

The Lamborghini Reventón has been entirely designed in Sant’Agata Bolognese, the original birthplace of the Lamborghini and the native home of every super car born under the sign of the bull. The design drawn up in Lamborghini’s Centro Stile (Style Centre) is fine-tuned in close collaboration with the Lamborghini Research and Development Department. Thus, the Reventón is not only “haute couture” but it also stands out for its elevated dynamism whilst being entirely suitable for every day use.

The Lamborghini Reventón is not destined to remain a one-off. A total of 20 Lamborghini friends and collectors will be able to own this extraordinary car and, naturally, enjoy the incomparable pleasure of driving it.

The name Reventón has been chosen according to Lamborghini tradition. Reventón was a fighting bull, owned by the Don Rodriguez family. It is included in the list of the most famous bulls ever and is known for killing the famed bullfighter Felix Guzman in 1943.

Inspired by the fastest airplanes

The present day Lamborghini models are distinguished by the clear language of their shape. The coherent proportions of the Murciélago and Gallardo highlight their power and dynamism. Sharp edges, precise lines and clean surfaces: these are ingredients of a style reduced to the essential. Each element is created exactly according to its function; ornaments and decorations are totally foreign to a Lamborghini.

With the Reventón the Centro Stile designers have coherently developed this philosophy, inspired by another sphere where speed and dynamism reign absolute: modern aeronautics, responsible for the fastest and most agile airplanes in the world. This has created an extremely precise, technically striking style with a new vitality: interrupted lines and contorted surfaces create a fascinating play of light, giving the car incredible movement.

Made of carbon fibre and precision

Although it is based on the extraordinarily successful Murciélago LP640, the exterior design of the Reventón is completely new. Just like the base model, the exterior is made of CFC, a composite carbon fibre material, which is as stable as it is light. The exterior components are glued and fixed to the body comprised of CFC and steel.

The front is characterised by the acute angle of the central ‘arrow’ and by the powerful forward-facing air intakes. Although they do not supply air directly to the turbine like an airplane, bearing in mind the 650 hp, an abundant volume of air is necessary to cool the carbon brake disks and the six cylinder callipers.

Characterised by coherent functions

Naturally, both doors on the Reventón open upwards – since the legendary Countach this has also been a symbol of the V12 Lamborghini product line. With their asymmetric configuration, the large air intakes below the doors provide an example of the extreme coherence with which a Lamborghini fulfils its function: on the driver’s side it is large to increase the flow of oil to the radiator. On the passenger’s side of the vehicle, the air intake is flat because in this case, it only has to ensure the flow below the floor. The aerodynamically optimised flat floor structure terminates at the rear with a diffuser featuring an accentuated shape. This guarantees excellent road grip and stability even at 340 km per hour.

In spite of the extreme and innovative language of its shape, the Reventón not only maintains all the strong features of the Murciélago LP640, but also offers further amelioration in terms of aerodynamics, the important engine cooling system, the air intake system and brakes. The airflow and the section of the variable geometry air intakes of the engine and the rear spoiler (also adjustable) have been modified.

Owners of the 20 examples will be able to test the performance of his or her Lamborghini in person.

Perfected to the ultimate detail

The engine hood made of glass laminate with open ventilation slits offers a glimpse of the beating heart of the twelve cylinders of the super car. The glass also features the marked arrow angle that characterises the design from the front to the rear spoiler. The Lamborghini designers’ love for detail is beautifully illustrated by the fuel tank lid: a small mechanical work of art, achieved by milling a solid aluminium block.

The combination lights transform the incisiveness of the design into light: the front features the most modern light-emitting diodes alongside Bi-Xenon headlights. Seven LEDs ensure continuous daylight while there are a further nine diodes for the indicator and hazard lights. Another technical innovation is found in the rear light LEDs. Because of the high temperature in the rear low part of the car, special heatproof LEDs are used for the indicator and hazard lights, stoplights and rear lights with a triple arrow optical effect.

A new body colour

Naturally, such a refined language of shape also demands an extraordinary colour. For the 20 examples of the Reventón, the designers from Sant’Agata Bolognese have created a totally new hue: Reventón, a mid opaque green/grey without the usual shine. However, thanks to the metallic particles, in the daylight this colour tone features surprising depth.

Opaque and brilliant colours for the wheel rims

This play of opaque and lustre is also featured on the wheel rims, especially created for the Reventón. Opaque carbon fins are screwed onto the black aluminium spokes, not only creating a visual effect with the precision of a surgeon’s scalpel, but a turbine effect also ensures optimum cooling for the powerful ceramic brake disks.

TFT display similar to an airplane

The same innovative force applied to the exterior design characterises the cockpit of the Reventón. Designed and created using Alcantara, carbon, aluminium and leather that comply with the top quality standards, the interior is inspired by the next generation cockpits: just like in modern airplanes, the instruments comprise three TFT liquid crystal displays with innovative display modes. At the touch of a button, the driver can choose from two vehicle information display modes. The instruments are housed in a structure milled from a solid aluminium block, protected by a carbon fibre casing.

The G-Force-Meter is also completely new: this display shows the dynamic drive forces, longitudinal acceleration during acceleration and braking, as well as transversal acceleration around bends. These forces are represented by the movement of an indicator  on a graduated 3D grid depending on the direction and intensity of the acceleration. A similar instrument can be found in the airplanes. Formula One teams also use a similar device to analyse dynamic forces.

Customisable instruments

The instrument on the left of the speedometer associates the number of revolutions in the form of a luminous column with the display of the selected gear. Finally, every Reventón is equipped with a robotised e.gear controlled by two small levers under the steering wheel.

By simply pressing a button, the driver can switch to the second, quasi-analogical display, where the classic circular instruments, speedometer and engine speed indicator are configured in an equally innovative way and transformed into luminous pilot lamps with varying colours. The G-Force-Meter naturally remains at the centre in this display mode.

Electronic system developed entirely by Lamborghini

All this is possible thanks to the fact that the entire electronic platform of the Reventón, together with all the control devices, has been autonomously developed by the Lamborghini experts.

The same process for integrating the electronic displays in the car was applied to the Lamborghini Engineering Department.

From the conception of the very first radical ideas, the entire Reventón has been developed in Sant’Agata Bolognese thanks to tight teams of remarkably creative experts. An extremely refined and efficient process was employed: CAD design and development, creation of the prototype in the Prototype Department, all carried out under the constant supervision of the Research and Development Department’s technicians and testers.

Atelier of creativity and high efficiency

Inaugurated in 2004, the Centro Stile is dedicated to design and characterised by a high degree of efficiency: an “atelier” of creators, designers and prototype constructors, who encapsulate the Lamborghini culture and spirit by using their remarkable skills to create aesthetic innovation.

The Centro Stile is located in a 2,900 square  two-storey building. The large pavilion houses two test floors and related production and analysis equipment, while other rooms are set aside for the most advanced computerised workstations for designers and a style-model construction workshop. The Centro Stile is also closely linked to the nearby Engineering Department: the direct line between the Lamborghini development departments guarantees that ideas rapidly become reality.

Creativity and production under the same roof

The Lamborghini Reventón is a practical illustration of the streamlined functionality and efficiency characterising the Centro Stile: it took less than a year to progress from the first ideas to the finished car. The complete design process from the first sketches on paper, to three dimensional computer models with 1:10 or 1:4 scale, right up to the real size prototype is organised around streamlined, fast, efficient work groups. Thanks to the Centro Stile, for the first time in its history, Lamborghini is now able to create its own style philosophy in-house without having to rely on any external collaboration.

The 20 units will be manufactured in Sant’Agata, using a production process characterised by artisan perfection and rigorous quality standards.
A masterpiece with tested technology

The technology found in the Murciélago LP640 has not been modified. The engine in the LP640 forwards is the classic twelve-cylinder engine with 6.5 litre displacement. Only for this car, Lamborghini guarantees, an astounding 650 HP (478 kW) at 8,000 revolutions per minute (rpm). The huge torque, equal to maximum 660 Nm, ensures a powerful switch from any number of revolutions: even the slightest pressure on the accelerator is spontaneously transformed into thrust.  The robotised e.gear changes gear faster than even the most expert driver. In addition, the permanent Viscous Traction four-wheel drive system ensures that every force is constantly translated into movement.

As in the original Murciélago LP640, the Reventón accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds, with a maximum speed over 340 km/h.

Born to become a legend

Since its foundation, Lamborghini has been a creator of trends in the world of sports cars and has always manufactured cars with an absolutely unmistakable character. Models such as the Miura or Countach, for example, were veritable forerunners and rapidly acquired the status of timeless classic cars. From the moment they are launched, every new Lamborghini promises to become a legend, destined to become a sought-after and precious possession.

With the Lamborghini Reventón, Lamborghini has done it again; it has created an unequalled super car; the perfect synthesis between the exclusivity and appeal of a limited edition design masterpiece, and the dynamism and driveability of a standard sports car. Thus, the Lamborghini legend is further enhanced by another, stylish future classic.

Technical data

Frame
High strength tubular steel structure with carbon fiber components.

Aston Martin One-77

At its world debut, the Aston Martin One-77 has won the Concorso d’Eleganza Design Award for Concept Cars and Prototypes on the shores of Lake Como, Italy.

Following the Geneva Auto Salon in March, where the technical illustration was first shown, the rolling chassis has since been completed by hand into the first car presented at Villa d’Este this weekend.

At its first public unveiling in the perfect setting of the Grand Hotel Villa d’Este, the first complete One-77 was on show. Visiting public were invited to cast their vote for the best concept and prototype. Among eight entries from around the world, the Aston Martin One-77 was voted the best in class, eclipsing the competition with more than 30% of the total votes.

Admiring crowds viewed One-77 in its entirety for the first time. The car was showcased complete with running powertrain and the never seen before, fully hand-crafted interior.

Aston Martin Chief Executive, Dr Ulrich Bez said: “Embodying everything Aston Martin stands for; the One-77 has proven itself as the most desirable automotive art form at its premiere today.

“We have achieved a new level of design and craftsmanship which has been clearly recognised by the public here in the homeland of design at Villa d’Este.”

Aston Martin Design Director, Marek Reichman said: “To win this award at its first showing is a testament to the Aston Martin team and the original concept. Winning here today has proven One-77 as a benchmark in automotive design.”

Ferrari 458 Italia

The 458 Italia is the latest incarnation of the mid-rear engined berlinetta and will be unveiled at the next Frankfurt Motor Show.

While it’s true that every Ferrari is innovative by definition, it’s equally true that in the course of the Prancing Horse’s history, certain cars have marked a genuine departure from the current range. This is very much the case with the Ferrari 458 Italia, which is a massive leap forward from the company’s previous mid-rear engined sports cars.

The new model is a synthesis of style, creative flair, passion and cutting-edge technology, characteristics for which Italy as a nation is well-known. For this reason Ferrari chose to add the name of its homeland to the traditional figure representing the displacement and number of cylinders.

The Ferrari 458 Italia is a completely new car from every point of view: engine, design, aerodynamics, handling, instrumentation and ergonomics, just to name a few.

A two-seater berlinetta, the Ferrari 458 Italia, as is now traditional for all Ferrari’s road-going cars, benefits hugely from the company’s Formula 1 experience. This is particularly evident in the speed and precision with which the car responds to driver inputs and in the attention focused on reducing internal friction in the engine for lower fuel consumption than the F430, despite the fact that both overall displacement and power have increased. However, Ferrari’s track experience makes its presence felt in the 458 Italia not only in terms of pure technological transfer but also on a more emotional level, because of the strong emphasis on creating an almost symbiotic relationship between driver and car. The 458 Italia features an innovative driving environment with a new kind of steering wheel and dashboard that is the direct result of racing practice. Once again input from Michael Schumacher – who was involved from the very start of the 458 Italia project – played an invaluable part.

The Ferrari 458 Italia’s Pininfarina design provides further evidence of the complete departure from the past that this new car hails. The Ferrari 458 Italia has a compact, aerodynamic shape, underscoring the concepts of simplicity, efficiency and lightness that inspired the project. As with every Ferrari, the car’s styling has been very heavily influenced by the requirements for aerodynamic efficiency, as can be seen from the downforce of 140 kg at 200km/h generated by the new model. The front features a single opening for the front grille and side air intakes, with aerodynamic sections and profiles designed to direct air to the coolant radiators and the new flat underbody. The nose also sports small aeroelastic winglets which generate downforce and, as speed rises, deform to reduce the section of the radiator inlets and cut drag.

The new 4499 cc V8 is the first Ferrari direct injection engine to be mid-rear mounted. It has a very low piston compression height typical of racing engines which contributed to achieving its compression ratio of 12.5:1. Equipped with the traditional flat-plane crankshaft, the engine delivers 570 CV at 9000 rpm and, with an outstanding power output of 127 CV/litre, sets a new benchmark not only for the whole Ferrari range and the history of company, but also for the entire market segment. Maximum torque is 540 Nm at 6000 rpm, over 80 per cent of which is available from 3250 rpm. Specific torque is a record 120 Nm/litre. However, what is truly extraordinary is the amount of torque available while still maintaining high levels of power at low revs.

The car’s soundtrack is also typical Ferrari, with an exciting, powerful growl emerging from the engine before it channels through to the exhaust’s three rear tailpipes.

The 458 Italia is equipped with the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission which increases performance whilst providing very smooth shifts even at full throttle. The engineers have developed specific, sportier gear ratios to match the power and torque curves of the new V8, guaranteeing high torque even at lower engine speeds and allowing the car to reach its maximum speed in top gear.

This new Ferrari is also a major leap forward when it comes to cutting emissions. Despite the fact that the new engine is significantly more powerful than the V8s that preceded it, the Ferrari 458 Italia produces just 320 g/km of CO2 and fuel consumption is 13.7 l/100 km (combined cycle), the best in the entire segment.

The engineers also focused on weight reduction during the design phase for similar reasons. Consequently, the Ferrari 458 Italia has a dry weight of 1380 kg with a power-to-weight ratio of 2.42 kg/CV. Weight distribution is also optimal with 58 per cent over the rear axle. The result of the engineers’ endeavours can be summed up in to two simple statistics which together perfectly encapsulate the Ferrari 458 Italia’s exceptional performance: 0-100 km/h acceleration in under 3.4 seconds and a maximum speed in excess of 325 km/h.

For the new chassis, once more in aluminium, Maranello’s engineers incorporated various types of advanced alloys along with aerospace industry-derived manufacturing and bonding techniques.

With regard to vehicle dynamics, the Ferrari 458 Italia’s suspension features twin wishbones at the front and a multi-link set-up at the rear tuned for maximum roadholding and superlative handling. Along with a more direct steering ratio, the 458 Italia thus offers extremely rapid turn-in and body control whilst maintaining superior ride comfort.

The integration of the E-Diff and F1-Trac (now controlled by the same ECU) and their respective mappings is even greater, resulting in a 32 per cent increase in longitudinal acceleration out of corners compared to previous models. The evolution of the control logic, with even faster and more accurate calculation of levels of grip, ensures even greater roadholding, better handling and ease of control on the limit.

The same ECU also governs the high-performance ABS, providing even more precise control over the logic threshold and greater efficiency. The brakes also feature a prefill function whereby the pistons in the callipers move the pads into contact with the discs on lift off to minimise delay in the brakes being applied. This combined with the ABS has cut the 100-0 km/h braking distance to a mere 32.5 metres.

The Ferrari 458 Italia’s interior is another area of the car that exalts its sporty personality. The driver is welcomed by a new layout and a revolutionary ergonomic interface where the main controls are all clustered on the steering wheel.

With the Ferrari 458 Italia, Maranello has brought a highly distinctive new car to its 8-cylinder range. The company now offers two models that share a common, race-derived DNA, both exceptionally sporty and fun to drive in true Ferrari tradition, but aimed at two very different kinds of client. While the Ferrari California was created for owners requiring a more versatile sports car with a practical edge, the 458 Italia is designed for owners for whom the priority is uncompromising on-road performance with occasional track day capability, but who still demand a car that is useable in day-to-day driving like all Ferrari’s recent models.

Ferrari 458 Italia – Technical specifications Dimensions

Length 4527 mm (178.2 in.)

Width 1937 mm (76.3 in.)

Height 1213 mm (47.8 in.)

Wheelbase 2650 mm (104.3 in.)

Dry weight 1380 kg (3042 lbs)*

Weight/power ratio 2,42 kg/CV (7.16 lbs/kW)

Weight distribution fr/r 42%/58%

Engine

Type V8 – 90°

Displacement 4499 cc (274.5 cu in.)

Maximum power 570 CV (425 kW)** @ 9000 rpm

Maximum torque 540 Nm (398 lbs/ft) @ 6000 rpm

Specific power output 127 CV/l

Compression ratio 12.5:1

Tyres

Front 235/35 ZR20 8.5″

Rear 295/35 ZR20 10.5″

Performance

Maximum speed >325 km/h (>202 mph)

0-100 km/h <3.4 s

Fuel consumption + emissions

Fuel consumption*** 13.7 l/100 km

Emissions*** 320 g CO2/km

Gearbox

Dual-clutch, 7-speed F1

Electronics

E-Diff3, F1-Trac, high-performance ABS

* With forged wheels and Racing seats

** Including 5 CV of ram effect

*** Combined cycle (ECE+EUDC)

Infiniti Essence

INFINITI ESSENCE:

THE MAGNIFICATION OF “INSPIRED PERFORMANCE”

The essence of the Infiniti brand distilled into one car and then taken to the extremes to satisfy the world’s most demanding car enthusiasts … this is the Infiniti Essence.

Presented as a concept at the 79^th International Motor Show of Geneva, Essence is a celebration of Infiniti and its 20 years history as a creator of performance cars.  But equally it is an inspiring exploration into the brand’s future.

The dramatic design, technology and performance statement is a 600PS, petrol/electric hybrid coupe with rear-wheel drive.  What Essence is not is merely an indulgent birthday present from Infiniti to itself.

This concept embodies Infiniti’s core values as an inspiration for the future as much a celebration of the past.  Essence showcases many of the technologies, including hybrid, and design cues that will distinguish Infiniti production cars of the coming years. And by steering Infiniti’s guiding principle of “Inspired Performance” into the super-performance, super-luxury coupe market for the first time, it reaffirms Infiniti’s place among the world’s most exclusive and vibrant car brands.

ESSENCE: AN OVERVIEW

• A front-engined, two-seat, 600PS luxury coupe concept, 4.7m long
• First motor show preview of Infiniti’s petrol/electric hybrid drivetrain
• Capable of vast speeds where conditions allow, zero emissions where they don’t
• Rear-wheel drive for maximum driver involvement
• Fresh design language to influence future production models
• Previews new safety technology including Back-up Collision Prevention
• Minimalist and intensely driver-focused interior
• “New luxury” meets traditional Japanese craftsmanship
• Bespoke Louis Vuitton fitted luggage to maximise trans-continental capability

ESSENCE: THE CONCEPT

“An Essence owner is characterized by his or her fearless self confidence; he or she is an intellectual hero rather than just a successful money maker.”

Francois Bancon, General Manager Advanced Product Planning

Essence began life not in the design studio but in Infiniti’s product planning department. Francois Bancon, General Manager Advanced Product Planning, and his team might not, at the start of the project, have known how Essence would look, but they did know what it had to be, why it had to exist – and who it would appeal to.

“Essence is a brand icon,” Francois Bancon said. “It is driven more by a conceptual approach than by any design execution. It is not just an object. It isn’t a teaser for a new model. It is solely dedicated to Infiniti brand promotion, to demonstrate and advocate the Infiniti unique values.”

The concept called for a very clear understanding of who the super-luxury coupe’s potential customers would be. Painstakingly, Bancon and his team of advanced product planners built up a picture of a typical Essence owner. It was a profile that showed an uncompromising, risk-taking 42-year-old passionate about the best things in life, but equally passionate about not flaunting them. “These consumers don‘t need to demonstrate to others,” said Bancon. “They are already at the next step of achievement that leads to rewarding themselves first.”

Francois Bancon went on: “We wanted a new way of mixing various ingredients to get a car that was reserved but with a big presence, something trendy but also indicating the next trend. We wanted a car that aspired to become a cult. It had to be exclusive, smart and mysterious. For the driver, it had to sum up the six-word essence of Essence:

Everything I want, nothing I don’t

ESSENCE IN DETAIL

1. DESIGN: DYNAMIC ADEYAKA

“The design embeds a sense of mystery, a sense of being in the know. Essence is not about showing signs of wealth and success.”

Shiro Nakamura, Senior Vice President of Design

With breathtaking good looks and perfect proportions, Essence exerts a powerful pull on all those who love cars. It looks like a driver’s car, one that would be right at home spearing down the world’s grandest motoring routes.

But Essence is no aggressive sports car. Infiniti’s “Dynamic Adeyaka” attitude ensures Essence is single-minded, but also inviting, sophisticated and born of inspiration from both the human and natural worlds. To further boost its emotional appeal, it features details that bring a very modern take to some very old Japanese traditions.

The designers’ aim was to merge all existing Infiniti design cues with fresh design language in a shape that the 20-year-old marque has never before attempted. The result is highly sculptural yet also very delicate. Essence speaks of power but not intimidation.

The bonnet is, as you would expect of an Infiniti, long, and the rear deck short. Together with a flowing “wave” profile between muscular front and rear wheelarches, Essence at first appears to be in the classic sports car mould. But there is nothing retro about Essence.

The side window graphics bring a particularly innovative and distinctive edge to the styling. The window appears to be resting on a ledge, its razor sharp line in contrast to the concave sweep of the upper body just below it. Imagine juxtaposing flowing water with the stark outline of a canyon landscape.

The rear section also features complex surfacing with concave “scoops” that flow down the rear pillars from one of Essence’s most distinctive design cues: a C-shaped kink to the side windows’ trailing edge. Outlined by a wide flourish of stainless steel, it adds instant movement to the car even when it is standing still.

One of the most distinctive details is the trim around the side air vents. The simple yet delicate shape, finely finished in aluminium, is based on the “kanzashi”, a hairpin used by women when wearing the kimono. Other lines and details are inspired by the wide brush strokes of Japanese calligraphy. Essence represents a successful merging of iconic cultural cues with automotive aesthetics.

Essence’s front is characterised by Infiniti’s signature double-arch grille, set at an angle that suggests the car is about to leap forward. There is an illuminated Infiniti badge at its heart. Rounded corners effectively hide the front overhang and make this 4.7m-long car appear anything but big in the flesh.

The grille is framed by subtle strips of stainless steel but there’s little other trim and no other grilles or intakes, not even foglights. At the front as over the rest of the car, Essence eschews superfluous body embellishments that could interrupt the graceful strength of the whole. The door handles are slithers of push buttons flush with the body while even rear-view mirrors must make way for minuscule cameras teased out of the A-pillars.

More familiar Infiniti cues include the lights. At the front the signature L-shaped modules taper back on to the bulging guards, picked out at their top edge by a row of LEDs. Slender fillets of red light curve around the car at the back, overlapping with the boot opening and framing the vestigial spoiler. Edged by more stainless steel, the spoiler appears to have been pushed out from within the car.

The windscreen flows back into a full glass roof that then tapers down towards the boot opening – making just one more memorable view of a car that doesn’t have a wrong angle to it.

On design, Essence is simple and amazingly complex, classical and totally dynamic all at the same time. Most of all as the epitome of “dynamic adeyaka” it boasts massive presence. Once seen, never forgotten.

2. INTERIOR: DRIVER-FOCUSED

“Detailed artistic expression and the rich warmth of the human hand go far beyond mechanical precision.”

Shiro Nakamura, Senior Vice President of Design

For a driver’s car, the perfect driver’s cabin. Essence’s interior is minimalist, ergonomic and totally focused on the job in hand: to give the person behind the wheel a feeling of absolute control. And yet all this driver focus goes hand in hand with a passenger area dominated by comfort, calm and elegance to offer the kind of hospitality that is so important to the Japanese people, and also to Essence.

The asymmetrical cabin is divided into two areas separated by a large curving console between the seats that sweeps around to merge with the centre of the dashboard. The result is two very distinct cocoons.  The driver’s side is themed black, the passenger’s “cocoon” an earthy red.

A flat-bottomed steering wheel and chronometer-style dials announce to the driver this is a serious performance machine. There are no gimmicks or sci-fi solutions here, just single-minded dedication to driving. Witness the technical nature of the displays, the short, alloy-topped gear selector and, just in front of it another finger-flick away, the bright red engine start button.

The car wraps itself around the driver who can quickly relax with the Infiniti trademarks of supportive seat and perfect driving position. There are more Infiniti cues such as the big gearchange paddle shifters behind the wheel and the analogue clock in the centre of the dash.

Infiniti designers believe the best functionality works behind the scenes, appearing only when needed. They call this “hidden tech”, and it’s the key to the functional minimalism that dominates the control layout. By not baffling drivers with buttons or overburdening them with information, Essence offers a sense of well-being to everyone, allowing them to focus entirely on enjoying the energizing driving experience.

With the materials used – leather, Alcantara, hand-painted wood inspired by traditional Japanese lacquerware – the cabin exudes a rich and inviting warmth. Attention to detail is such that even the leather seams on the seat backs differ from left side to right side. Why? So they can accurately reflect the way Japanese men and women tie their kimonos.

Essence’s interior promotes a sense of well-being which is key to the Infiniti driving experience.

3. DRIVETRAIN: POWER WITH RESPONSIBILITY

“Infiniti’s performance feel has been captured as natural dynamism, like energy rising from within.”

Francois Bancon, General Manager Advanced Product Planning

Essence’s drivetrain is designed to meet the highest expectations of owners by delivering the one thing everyone expects of an Infiniti – sheer driving pleasure. In Essence that pleasure is taken to new heights, at the same time as previewing an innovative green hybrid engine.

Essence is unusual even in the rarefied atmosphere of the world’s fastest road cars by being able to call on a mighty 600PS (592bhp). The power guarantees high performance responses on any road, in any situation. Essence is not, however, an intimidating sports racer. Like the design, the performance is designed to be sophisticated and unobtrusive – performance with a human touch.

The hybrid system is a logical extension of Infiniti parent group’s groundbreaking green commitments. It offers power with efficiency, and high performance with zero-emissions running, by combining a petrol engine with an electric motor. These can work independently or together as a “parallel” hybrid system.

In congested urban areas, the electric motor alone is all that is needed for Essence to glide silently between stoplights, with no tailpipe emissions.

When the traffic clears, Essence responds with a highway performance that few cars could match. In “power assist” mode the full 600PS is unleashed with both petrol and electric power working together.

A key difference over some other hybrid systems is that both the V6 and the electric motor feed their power only to the rear wheels. Performance is more linear, response is crisper – and driving pleasure further enhanced – as a result.

Infiniti’s familiar 3.7-litre V6 gasoline engine is fitted with twin turbochargers, boosting power to 440PS (434bhp). A new direct-injection fuel system ensures the engine works more efficiently than ever in Essence.

Essence previews a new type of electric motor, called 3D Motor, that was designed to meet tough requirements on size and power output. The result is a particularly slim, disk-shaped motor that has twice the torque of a conventional unit. Its design was achieved by 3D magnetic field analysis to optimize the layout of the electromagnetic coils and permanent magnets.

In Essence, the motor is positioned between the engine and transmission and provides 160PS (158bhp), drawing power from a compact lithium-ion battery pack in the boot area. Because the 3D Motor operates in both propulsion and power regeneration modes, the battery pack is kept charged up.

Optimized energy useage across the widest possible range of driving conditions is guaranteed by two separate clutches which “switch in” the motors as required. It is a system that needs no torque converter, further enhancing responsiveness and driving pleasure.

4. SAFETY: A COLLISION-FREE FUTURE

On a global level, Infiniti is committed to building safer vehicles equipped with advanced safety technologies.

Essence previews some of the next-generation safety features that will ensure Infiniti cars remain among the safest on the road. Chief among them is a “Safety Shield” that goes a long way towards the Infiniti engineers’ dream of a collision-free car.

The Safety Shield adds two new technologies to the Distance Control Assist (DCA) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) systems that are available in today’s production Infinitis. Side Collision Prevention (SCP) and Back-up Collision Prevention (BCP) extend the anti-collision shield all the way around the car.

With SCP, when the driver decides to change lanes, side-mounted sensors activate a warning if an approaching vehicle is detected in the driver’s intended lane. A yaw mechanism is then activated through brake control of individual wheels to help prevent a potential collision. Back-up Collision Prevention works in a similar way, sensing a vehicle behind, giving the driver a warning but then, if the warning is not heeded, activating the brakes automatically.

The warning system and pre-emptive safety features are designed to help support the driver in an intuitive manner with minimal intervention.

5. PRACTICALITY: A VERY BESPOKE SOLUTION

The team behind Essence harked back to an early motoring era to find the right solution for carrying luggage. The result is as classy as luggage ever gets, surprisingly practical and dreamily romantic. It also re-establishes the historic ties between a carmaker and one of the best-known names in luxury goods – Louis Vuitton.

Vuitton first worked with a coachbuilder – the famous Kellner company ­ – in 1908, equipping one of their early luxury limousines with a set of bespoke luggage. Other coachbuilders quickly beat a path to Vuitton’s door in Paris. Made-to-measure Vuitton trunks were an integral feature of some of the greatest cars of the first part of the 20^th century.

The collaboration between Infiniti and Vuitton revives the idea of a set of the highest quality luggage made to fit exactly a car’s boot area. In Essence there are three rigid pieces: a matched pair of slender briefcases atop a large trunk. All are made in the new Damier Graphite canvas and feature sleekly integrated handles and an overall design in harmony with the car itself.

There is hi-tech, too. A button on the key fob electrically opens the boot lid, allowing the boot floor to slide silently rearwards. This is one boot an owner will never have to struggle to access.

In a nod at tradition, the cases even bear the initials of their owner – SN, standing for Shiro Nakamura, Senior Vice President of Design.

6. INFINITI: 20 YEARS OF PERFORMANCE CARS

The Essence has been 20 years in the making. For that is how long the essence of the marque – its very being, a distillation of everything that Infiniti stands for – has taken to reach its current state of perfection.

The idea behind Infiniti was first discussed in 1985 but it wasn’t until November 1989 that the first Infiniti model was sold in North America. Today it is the fastest growing luxury brand in the US.

But it is also far more than just a US brand. Today Infiniti has more than 230 dealers in 15 countries with worldwide sales of 150,000 annually.

Infiniti’s success is down to many things, not least the “Dynamic Adeyaka” attitude behind every Infiniti model. When Adeyaka meets The Total Ownership Experience the result is the three pillars of Infiniti: driving pleasure, hospitality and peace of mind.

All these values are perfectly summed up by Essence which is revealed at the Geneva Motor Show of 2009 not only to coincide with the marque’s 20^th anniversary, but also in the midst of the brand’s current challenge: to take on the European market.

Vision Efficient Dynamics

Character:

• High-performance c • oncept study with BMW ActiveHybrid technology visualising the dynamic performance typical of a BMW against the backdrop of future demands in sustained mobility. BMW Vision EfficientDynamics as a symbol for the future of Sheer Driving Pleasure in harmony with trendsetting efficiency.

• Development aim: The performance of a BMW M Car and a highly emotional character combined with the fuel economy and emission management of a modern small car in the premium class. As a result, this unique sports car offers the most consistent rendition of the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy.
• Innovative approach in the context of BMW EfficientDynamics: The exceedingly good balance of CO2 emission management and driving pleasure results from a revolutionary vehicle concept developed all in one from the ground up, achieving a new level of efficiency combined with a unique driving experience. The overall result goes far beyond the sum total of the individual features and components in this concept car.
• BMW Vision EfficientDynamics offers a realistic impression of the unique potential of BMW ActiveHybrid technology and the great innovative thrust of BMW EfficientDynamics.

Technology:

• Offering a full-hybrid concept, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car is powered by a three-cylinder turbodiesel and two electric motors. Overall system output is 262 kW/356 hp, maximum torque 800 Newtonmetres/590 lb-ft. All-wheel drive featuring an electric motor on both the front and rear axle.
• Anticipated performance: Acceleration from a standstill to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds, top speed 250 km/h (155 mph) (electronically limited) , fuel consumption in the EU test cycle 3.76 litres/100 km (equal to 75.1 mph imp), CO2 emissions 99 grams/kilometre.
• As a plug-in hybrid, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is able to cover the entire fuel consumption drive cycle under electric power alone. Taking the sources of energy used for generating the electric power consumed into account (EU electricity mix), this reduces the CO2 emission rating to just 50 grams per kilometre.
• Electric power is generated without the slightest increase in fuel consumption through a particularly efficient concept of Brake Energy Regeneration. Energy is stored in 98 lithium polymer cells. The car is able to cover a distance of approximately 50 km/31 miles in the electric mode alone.
• Aerodynamics developed with know-how from Formula 1. CX drag coefficient optimised to just 0.22. Forward-looking energy management uses the maximum potential available in each case to minimise fuel consumption.

Design:

• Technology-oriented body design as a clear expression of consistent lightweight technology and aerodynamic quality. Design language typical of the brand, setting clear signals in terms of sporting performance and optimum efficiency.
• The 2+2-seater concept combines dynamic performance and supreme efficiency with an enhanced level of all-round function. BMW Vision EfficientDynamics symbolises BMW’s commitment to offer an unprecedented driving experience for up to four occupants.
• BMW Vision EfficientDynamics comes with gullwing doors opening up to the side. Innovative, weight-optimised door kinematics makes entering the car at both front and rear convenient and very easy.
• The interior of this unique 2+2-seater intentionally demonstrates the very latest in modern technology. At the same time the use of natural materials underlines BMW’s strategy of sustainability borne out through this concept car.
• The roof and door inserts made of polycarbonate glass automatically become darker as a function of incoming light.

BMW sees technical innovations reducing both emissions and fuel consumption as an elementary part of the brand’s product strategy, just like vehicle concepts enhancing the Sheer Driving Pleasure so typical of BMW as a lasting, sustained experience. Now the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car clearly demonstrates that these objectives expressed through the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy are fully compatible with the most demanding reduction in fuel consumption and emissions complying in full with future requirements. Conceived as a 2+2-seater with plug-in full-hybrid technology, this unique caris able to combine the performance of a BMW M Car with a standard of fuel economy and emission management exceeding even the current level achieved by the latest small cars in the market.
This outstanding result is made possible by the consistent integration of BMW ActiveHybrid components, their combination with an extremely economical combustion engine, and the outstanding aerodynamic qualities of the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is the result of an all-inclusive development process starting from a clean sheet of paper. This ensures an improvement of both efficiency and driving pleasure far exceeding the sum total of all individual components and technologies, and is also borne out in the very emotional design of this unique concept car. BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is therefore an unprecedented sports car offering fascinating perspectives for the future of Sheer Driving Pleasure combined in full harmony with maximum efficiency.
Presenting this unique concept car, BMW is once again demonstrating the company’s outstanding competence in the development of cutting-edge drive systems. Indeed, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is the most comprehensive implementation of the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy seen so far. The drive units provide a top speed limited electronically of 250 km/h or 155 mph, with acceleration to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 3.76 litres/100 kilometres, equal to 75.1 mpg imp, and the CO2 emission rating is 99 grams per kilometre.

CO2 emission management is even more outstanding when driving in the all-electric mode after charging the battery from a plug-in source: Taking all emissions in the generation of electricity into account, as prescribed by the EU mix, the car’s emission rating in this case is just 50 grams per kilometre.
Through this unique balance of driving pleasure and fuel economy the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car clearly demonstrates the potential of BMW ActiveHybrid technology making its world debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show in the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 and BMW ActiveHybrid 7 production models.

This truly impressive power and performance is made possible by combining a particularly fuel-efficient three-cylinder turbodiesel with one electric motor each on the front and rear axle. The intelligent combination of these three power units and the energy they develop, together with precisely controlled energy management, serves to enhance both the dynamic performance and the all-round efficiency of the car, using the full potential of BMW ActiveHybrid to reduce both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions to the greatest possible extent. Overall system output is 262 kW/356 hp, peak torque is 800 Newtonmetres/590 lb-ft.

The special arrangement of the three power units allows all-wheel drive also available in the all-electric mode. The result is minimum power loss and at the same time harmonious transmission of the power available under all conditions. In its design, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics for the first time conveys the dynamic look so typical of a BMW sports car to a hybrid vehicle. Developed with
know-how from Formula 1, the body of this unique sports car is an expression of intelligent lightweight technology and supreme aerodynamic efficiency. And in the design of the interior, the focus was likewise on both the fascinating driving experience and, in particular, on transparent, hands-on technology and maximum reduction of weight.

Turbodiesel power unit with unprecedented output per litre.
The combustion engine is a cutting-edge turbodiesel featured for the first time in the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car. Displacing 1.5 litres on three cylinders, the engine consistently follows the downsizing principle using relatively small engine capacity combined with a turbocharger to reduce fuel consumption.

Through its compact dimensions, the three-cylinder fits conveniently in front of the rear axle like in an agile mid-engined sports car, despite the two seats at the rear. Fuel is injected by the latest generation of common-rail direct injection, the turbocharger features variable intake geometry for maximum efficiency.
Engine output is 120 kW/163 hp, peak torque 290 Newton-metres/214 lb-ft. The output per litre of 80 kW/109 hp achieved in this way sets a new record in diesel technology.
The power delivered by the turbodiesel in conveyed to the rear axle by means of a double-clutch gearbox. This advanced transmission technology already offering a particularly dynamic driving experience in BMW’s unusually sporting production cars, allows the driver to shift gears without the slightest interruption of power and traction.
BMW Vision EfficientDynamics comes with a newly developed, minimum consumption version of BMW’s direct-clutch gearbox with six speeds for maximum efficiency and flexibility.

Two electric motors for full-hybrid drive.
The combustion engine is supplemented by two electric motors. Consistently applying the BMW ActiveHybrid strategy, BMW’s development engineers followed the principle of “Best of Hybrid”, choosing the optimum combination of a hybrid synchronous motor on the front axle and a full-hybrid system at the rear. Through the specific configuration of the system as an advanced hybrid ideal for practical use on the road, the driver benefits from the extra efficiency of the electric motors over a far wider speed range than with a conventional hybrid car.

The rear axle comes with a second-generation full-hybrid system corresponding to the technology introduced for the fi rst time in the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 production model. Running as an electric motor, the compact electric power unit positioned between the combustion engine and the double-clutch gearbox develops a consistent 25 kW and is able to reach a peak of up to 38 kW. Maximum torque, again, is 290 Nm or 214 lb-ft, the power developed in this way serving, depending on driving conditions, either to support the combustion engine or for all-electric motoring.

In overrun and when applying the brakes the electric motor acts as a generator feeding electric power to the lithium-polymer battery in the car. The electric energy developed in this way is therefore generated without any additional consumption of fuel, raising the principle of Brake Energy Regeneration already featured in BMW’s current models to an even higher and significantly more efficient level. Energy wasted on the brakes of a conventional car is thus saved within the new power system for subsequent use in driving the car.

A second electric motor acts on the front axle. This power unit, a hybrid synchronous motor, offers permanent output of 60 kW and peak torque of 220 Newton-metres or 162 lb-ft. Extra power of 84 kW is available for a period of up to 30 seconds and for 10 seconds the electric motor is even able to develop 104 kW. Power is transmitted through a two-stage, single-speed reduced-ratio gearbox.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is able to run completely under electric power, with the power of the turbodiesel engine alone, or through an infinite combination of the three power sources. Depending on driving conditions and the driver’s particular requirements, the two electric motors may be used both for accelerating and for regenerating energy when applying the brakes and in overrun. This principle ensures a high level of effi cient energy management, with the charge status of the lithium-polymer battery constantly remaining within the optimum range. When accelerating the electric motors help to boost the car for even greater performance, ensuring a spontaneous and direct response and a significant reduction in fuel consumption. For a short time, for example when overtaking, the cumulative maximum output of all three power units increases to 262 kW/356 hp, with maximum torque generated by the three power units reaching 800 Newton-metres/590 lb-ft.

Lithium-polymer cells serving as the battery for electrical energy.
The energy cells featured in BMW Vision EfficientDynamics are housed in a chassis element running from front to rear through the middle of the car. The front unit is the lithium-polymer complex, an ongoing development of the lithium-ion battery as the currently most efficient technology for storing a high level of electrical energy for maximum performance. Overall, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics comes with a total of 98 lithium-polymer cells, each offering a capacity of 30 amp/hours and developing continuous output of 600 Amps at a voltage of 3.7 V. For a period of 30 seconds, each cell is even able to develop maximum output of 1,200 Amps.

Serial arrangement of the lithium-polymer cells serves to generate nominal voltage of 364 V, the gross storage capacity of the battery is 10.8 kW/h. Offering an unusually high discharge capacity of 80 per cent, the battery delivers 8.6 kW/h for driving the car.

This superior performance comes on overall weight of the entire energy storage system of just 85 kg or 187 lb. A further advantage is that through their optimum dimensions tailored to the specific qualities and features of the car, the lithium polymer cells, together with the operating strategy chosen with a concept of energy management looking ahead at upcoming requirements, reduces the thermal load acting on the battery to such an extent that there is no need for active cooling.

Plug-in solution: convenient charging of the electric power system
on a conventional power socket.
Brake Energy Regeneration consistently transfers electric power generated while driving without any additional fuel consumption to the battery, which may subsequently be used to supply power to both the electric motors and the on-board network. A further option is to connect the lithium-polymer cells to a conventional power socket for a simple and efficient charge process, using
a plug-in connector in the front right wing of the car.

Connected to the regular domestic power mains (220 V, 16 Amps), the system requires a maximum of 2 ½ hours to fully charge the lithium-polymer cells. And wherever a power source with higher voltage and amperage (380 V, 32 Amps) is available, the charge time is an even shorter 44 minutes at the very most.

In addition to the electrical energy storage facilities,BMW Vision EfficientDynamics comes with a conventional fuel tank at the rear end of the central chassis tunnel, offering a capacity of 25 ltr or 5.5 imp gals. Running on diesel fuel alone, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is able to cover a distance of approximately 650 km or 400 miles just with its combustion engine. Benefiting from an extra range of up to 50 kilometres or 31 miles in the all-electric mode, the car offers an overall cruising range of approximately 700 kilometres or 435 miles.

As a result, this unique concept car offers all the requirements for usingenergy with maximum efficiency and at the same time experiencing the dynamic performance so typical of BMW without any restriction of everyday
driving qualities.

Performance, fuel economy and emission management opening up new dimensions in hybrid motoring.
The power delivered by the three power units gives the BMW Vision Effi cientDynamics concept car a level of dynamic performance far superior to anything provided so far by any hybrid vehicle. Indeed, the performance and consumption figures determined by standardised computer simulations show an exceptionally good balance of driving pleasure and fuel economy even for a hybrid. Acceleration from a standstill to 100 km/h, for example, comes in just 4.8 seconds and the car’s top speed would be over 250 km/h or 155 mph, requiring electrical limitation of top speed in accordance with BMW’s corporate philosophy through electronic engine control now also on a full-hybrid sports car.

The objective to develop a vehicle offering the performance of a BMW M Car combined with supreme all-round efficiency therefore comes to bear completely and without the slightest restriction in BMW Vision EfficientDynamics.
At the same time fuel economy and emission management now reach a standard only achieved so far, if at all, by far less powerful small cars conceived primarily for city traffi c and short distances. Applying the criteria of the EU test cycle currently prescribed by law, BMW Vision Effi cientDynamics offers average fuel consumption of just 3.76 litres of diesel fuel per 100 kilometres, equal to 75.1 mpg imp. CO2 emissions, in turn, are 99 grams per kilometre.

These consumption and emission figures are measured on a consistent internal power balance, meaning that the batteries and storage media for electrical energy maintain the same charge level throughout the entire test cycle (with the same level at the beginning and end) and are charged while driving only by the car’s on-board systems.

As a plug-in hybrid, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is able to cover the entire drive cycle for measuring fuel consumption also with its combustion engine completely switched off. Then, to subsequently charge the lithium-polymer cells to the same status as when setting off, all the driver has to do is connect the car to an external power grid. To determine the consumption of electric power, the only requirement is to compare the charge level of the battery before and after the test cycle.

Applying this measurement process, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car consumes 17.5 kW/h per 100 kilometres, equal to a CO2 emission rating of just 50 grams per kilometre in the EU test cycle.

To determine the total volume of CO2 emissions when driving in the all-electric mode, new legal standards for measuring the level of fuel consumption are currently being prepared for hybrid and electric cars with a plug-in power supply. Applying this calculation method, the CO2 emission ratings generated by BMW Vision Effi cientDynamics are reduced further to just one-third of the original figure of 99 grams per kilometre. Clearly, this signifi cant reduction of emissions opens up a new dimension in BMW’s EfficientDynamics development strategy in this unique concept car.

Aerodynamic qualities reflecting BMW’s know-how gained in Formula 1.
BMW Vision EfficientDynamics also takes a new approach in its design and streamlining, the body and the interior clearly expressing the unique combination of supreme efficiency and the sporting performance so typical of the brand. Following the design language so characteristic of BMW, this unprecedented concept car clearly visualises both highly efficient aerodynamics and consistent
lightweight construction.

In its design, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics differs significantly from the usual low-emission cars seen so far. And since the principle of “form follows function” is not reduced in this case just to the overall look of the car, but rather embraces each and every detail, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics combines unique aesthetic appeal with a highly emotional impact. Through its design alone, therefore, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics clearly proves that Sheer Driving Pleasure in typical BMW style may also be offered without restrictions in a brand-new, innovative car concept.

Measuring only 1.24 metres or 48.8″ in height and boasting a sweeping, arch-like roofline, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics offers the slender silhouette of a classic Gran Turismo. With the combustion engine fitted in front of the rear axle, the designers have furthermore succeeded in giving the car a very low and sleek front end, with the fl ow of air depending on driving conditions being further smoothened by active louvers in the radiator closing completely whenever the need for cooling air is relatively low.

This efficient function follows in the footsteps of the active air flap control already used as a feature of BMW EfficientDynamics in many of BMW’s current production models. And as a further highlight, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics guides air smoothly and exactly as required into the car through an active air intake at the front.

Numerous details in the design of the body are based on the know-how BMW has gained in Formula 1, a number of body elements serving as air deflectors and guide vanes, like on the BMW Sauber F1. Designed as ducts, for example, the A-pillars serve to channel the flow of air in the same way as the rear lights with their wing profile.

The underfloor of the car is fully covered from front to rear and from one side to the other, thus maintaining a smooth surface to avoid any air swirl liable to increase fuel consumption. Slender openings around the front air dam guide the air flowing in specifically into two closed ducts leading inside the front air dam to the wheel arches where the air comes out again through a very slim aperture
at high speed, flowing just next to the outer wheel flanks. This air jet rests on the front wheels like a curtain and is therefore referred to most appropriately as the air curtain with its highly stabilising effect.

Overall vehicle concept for a drag coefficient of just 0.22.
To further optimise the aerodynamic qualities of the entire vehicle and keep rolling resistance to a minimum, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics comes with tyres and rims of quite unusual size on a sports car. The tyres measure 195/55 in their width-to-height ratio, while large 21-inch rims provide a contact surface on the road otherwise offered only by a much wider tyre. In combination with the sophisticated axle kinematics, this ensures particularly agile driving behaviour.

The extra-large rim covers extending over part of the tyre flanks add to the unique, very different look of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics from the side. The blade profile integrated in the rims serves furthermore to reduce the negative effect of the turning wheels on the overall aerodynamics of the car. In all, these features optimising the aerodynamic qualities of the car give the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car a very low drag factor (CX) of just 0.22.

Technological look as a strong impression of intelligent lightweight construction.
In both its exterior and interior design, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics stands out clearly as a strong spearhead in technology. Many components of the vehicle are presented in full view expressing the “transparent” character of the car as a powerful visual feature of lightweight technology. The chassis and suspension of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics are made completely of aluminium, the roof and the outer skin on the large doors are made almost completely of a special polycarbonate glass automatically darkening as a function of the light shining on the car.

Measuring 4.60 metres (181.1″) in length, 1.90 metres (74.8″) in width and 1.24 metres (48.8″) in height, this unique concept car offers ample space for up to four passengers and their luggage. Thanks to the consistent lightweight construction strategy applied on the car, unladen weight according to the DIN standard is limited to 1,395 kg or 3,076 lb, with the centre of gravity relevant to motoring comfort and driving dynamics remaining very low.

Considering the wide range of high-performance hybrid drive components and the high-capacity lithium-polymer battery fitted in the car, these figures clearly confirm the overall concept of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics with its great commitment to outstanding efficiency. In its power-to-weight ratio, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car is far superior to all conventional hybrid cars, achieving the same standard as extremely dynamic sports cars with a conventional combustion engine.

Carrying a maximum load of 445 kg or 981 lb, this unique 2+2-seater is fully suited for everyday traffic. Luggage capacity of 150 litres or 5.3 cu ft, in turn, allows the driver and passengers to conveniently take along, say, two golf bags. And to meet additional loading requirements the backrests of the two rear seats may be tilted down individually to provide extra storage space.

Emotional design through sculptural shapes and layering technology.
Reflecting the innovative drive concept of this unique car, the design of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics likewise takes a new approach in combining functional progress with a most powerful emotional impact.

This has been achieved through the close cooperation of BMW’s Design and Technical Development Divisions starting at an early point and continuing consistently throughout the entire development process. The result is a brand-new vehicle architecture with the drive components as well as the body and interior elements perfectly coordinated and matched to one another with maximum flexibility and individual style. A fully integrated design philosophy also provided new options in using harmonised design principles connecting the exterior and the interior and providing an interacting effect between the two areas.’

Sculptural design language giving BMW Vision EfficientDynamics a fully harmonised, complete look ensures the proportions so typical of a BMW sports car. The front, side, rear and roof areas, for example, fl ow smoothly into one another. Dynamically contoured surfaces and shapes, in turn, create highly attractive light and shade effects accentuating the light and sporting character of the car in a most emotional manner.

Layering technology developed by the BMW Group Design Division acts as the fundamental guideline in designing the exterior and interior. Applied for the first time in exterior design, this technology layers one surface on top of the other, creating very smooth seams and joints to reduce the number of components and, accordingly, the weight of the car. As a result, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics meets the most demanding aerodynamic requirements without using any additional body elements, simply through the structure of the surfaces optimised for a smooth flow of air.

Interior: innovative lightweight construction and unprecedented orientation to the driver.
In the design of the interior, innovative layering technology provides an unprecedented symbiosis of function and stylish shapes intentionally reduced to a minimum, consistently implementing and visualising the lightweight principle also inside the car.

Specific components such as the central air vent not only serving to enhance motoring comfort but also acting as part of the cockpit, perform several functions in one. This multi-functionality is then presented visibly within the car, the use of particularly sophisticated materials providing a highly attractive combination of innovation in technology and quality clear to the eye and the touch of the surface.

This interaction of lightweight construction and individual well-being also comes out clearly in the design of the controls and switches, with a leather band, for example, running round the aluminium gear selector lever on the centre console.

Materials combining lightweight technology and all the qualities required are also to be admired all round the cockpit of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics, giving the car an unusually generous feeling of space for a 2+2-seater. The body-contoured seats, for example, are made up of a kevlar shell, a backbone structure, and seat padding with personalised fillings. Clearly, this combination alone ensures supreme comfort on minimum weight.

The driver’s and front passenger’s seats are connected firmly to the centre console to form a joint interior “landscape”, while the rear seats anchored on the floor would appear to be hovering in space. Natural materials and light colours on the seat upholstery and all interior linings underline the light, sophisticated and sustainability-oriented atmosphere within the passenger compartment.

The instrument panel is deliberately padded only where technical components have to be appropriately covered, thus making an important contribution to passenger safety in the event of a collision. The instrument cluster played a fundamental role right from the start in the design process, serving as the starting point for all surfaces within the interior and thus creating a particularly powerful rendition of that driver orientation so typical of BMW.

Innovative light technology: providing clear signals to the outside and offering soothing ambient illumination inside in a unique symbiosis.
LED lights at both the front and rear end of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics provide an innovative combination of the symbols so typical of the brand and clear design language oriented towards trendsetting technology. The distinctive look of the dual round headlights characteristic of a BMW is emphasised in particular by the use of LED technology. The rear lights are integrated also in their function into the design of the entire rear section, forming part of the rear air deflector and thus merging completely into the rear contour.

Extremely flat and compact, the rear lights are made up of innovative LED units forming a smooth and consistent red surface when not in use. Only when used do the respective light chambers take on their appropriate colour such as yellow on the direction indicators.

This innovative light technology also provides an intense symbiosis of the exterior and interior, again promoting and further refining the driving experience. This is also why the ambient illumination of the interior comes with new features and qualities, the light sources within the passenger compartment being fed from the positioning lights at the side, the rear lights and the brake lights, thus changing the atmosphere created by the lights within the car as a function of driving conditions.

The optical impression conveyed by BMW Vision EfficientDynamics also results in other areas from the symbiosis of the exterior and interior, eliminating the conventional barriers between the two. The lines within the interior, for example, continue on to the innovative design of the engine compartment lid, while in its shape the third brake light positioned higher up on the car follows the structure of the glass roof and tapers to the outside where the roofline moves down gently to the rear.

Gullwing doors for convenient access to all seats.
The doors on BMW Vision EfficientDynamics open up like gullwings, turning on pivots in the front roof column at the level of the side direction indicators. Since the car has no B-pillars, the large door cutouts ensure convenient entry also to the rear seats. The pivots on the doors also provide the base for the exterior mirrors, thus forming an ideal combination of function and aesthetic design.

The structure of the doors is also characterised by several layers of materials on top of one another and the optical and functional symbiosis of the interior and exterior this technology is able to offer. Made up of three layers, the overall structure comprises the outer glass surface, an interim load-bearing layer, and the interior cover with its particularly smooth shapes and flowing forms clearly visible to the passengers, layering technology again, therefore, opening up new perspectives.

The large glass surfaces extending far down on the body also provide a strong optical impression of the low seating position close to the road. And at the same time a stable sidebar ensures the body stiffness and crash safety naturally required on every vehicle. Flowing to the inside at its central point, this safety element also serves as an armrest.

This interplay of the three layers also helping to minimise the weight of the car continues on the trim bar running along the door and extending out of the armrest, finally flowing into the outer door opener on its path from inside to outside.

Clear focus on the essential: three-dimensional Head-Up Display.
Layering technology is also used on the displays in the instrument cluster and in the Head-Up Display developed to an even higher standard on BMW’s new concept car. The Display now creates a powerful impression of three dimensions, at the same time providing the option to present various signals more in the front or more in the background, depending on their relevance and current driving conditions.

The Head-Up Display projects information important to the driver on to the windscreen. Indeed, innovative presentation technology even allows the superimposed presentation of several views in three dimensions, keeping, say, the speedometer graphics visible in the background while the latest information on route guidance or warning signals from BMW Night Vision, for example, are shown in the foreground.

The sequence in which such signals appear depends on the driving mode chosen by the driver, the display technology, again depending on the driver’s personal preference, enhancing either a particularly sporting, a more comfort-oriented, or an efficiency-based style of motoring.

Through its design alone, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car clearly shows that highly efficient individual mobility may by all means be presented in emotional style. BMW already offers models in all vehicle segments which, compared with the competition, ensure the lowest level of fuel consumption and emissions combined with superior power and performance. And now BMW Vision EfficientDynamics confirms BMW’s commitment to offer a perfect combination in future of unique driving pleasure and optimum qualities in the responsible use of natural resources.

In the design process the need for sustainable management is borne out most clearly by the GINA (Geometry and Functions in N-fold Augmentation) concept developed by the BMW Group. In this case maximum creative freedom sets the foundation for innovative solutions challenging the conventional and meeting the requirements of the future.

This makes the GINA principle particularly well-suited for developing visions for the future reflecting both the wish for emotional style and individual character as well as the quest for sustainable management and efficiency. From the dimensions of its wheels through the design of the rear lights and all the way to the configuration of the cockpit, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics therefore boasts a number of details both outside and inside which, going far beyond conventional solutions, open up a new approach to maximum efficiency and that Sheer Driving Pleasure so typical of BMW.

Concept car serving as a spearhead in technology for BMW EfficientDynamics.
The most obvious areas where BMW Vision EfficientDynamics points into the near future of the BMW Effi cientDynamcis development strategy are the drivetrain and the aerodynamics of the car. But even the individual details show highly innovative solutions, the concept car, for example, boasting not only technologies already proven for years in production models, such as Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Start Stop and Active Air Flap Control, but also a wider range of innovative system components serving to further reduce both fuel consumption and emissions. Again, therefore, these new components are already in the final phase of development or are being tested in prototypes.

One objective of BMW’s engineers was, wherever possible, to further reduce the loss of energy still quite substantial even on the most efficient combustion engines. Precisely this is why a water-cooled Thermo-Electrical Generator (TEG) is integrated in the exhaust system of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics, serving to convert a lot of the thermal energy contained in the exhaust emissions into electric power.

This technology originally developed for spacecraft uses the so-called Seebeck effect generating a certain voltage through a temperature gradient within metal-based semi-conductors.

On BMW Vision EfficientDynamics the Thermo-Electrical Generator, which has already proven its practical qualities in a BMW 5 Series test car, develops maximum output of up to 200 W. The pipes and manifolds in the exhaust system are designed in this case to maintain the full power and all the characteristics typical of the combustion engine also when using this generator system.

Forward-looking energy management adjusting to individual requirements.
With the individual system components on board BMW Vision EfficientDynamics being networked with one another, conditions are perfect for implementing a forward-looking system of energy management using information gathered by the sensors of the driver assistance units fi tted in the car. Data provided, for example, by the rain sensor or Active Cruise Control with its Stop & Go function as well as by the navigation system, and subsequently evaluated by the central control unit, offers an overview of current and upcoming driving conditions. Then, evaluating such data, the on-board computer is able to forecast driving conditions on the stretch of road immediately ahead, such calculations serving to prepare the car for upcoming requirements and make efficient use of the energy available through optimum operation of all systems.

Should the high-performance central computer establish, for example, that the driver is about to take the motorway, the power used for running the cooling system is reduced for a certain period in advance, on the assumption that the short increase in coolant temperature resulting from such an energy-saving measure will quickly be set off by the higher speed of the car on the motorway.

Another example of such pre-conditioning is the regeneration of energy from the air conditioning, from EPS Electronic Power Steering and the Brake Assistant.

Yet another feature of forward-looking energy management is provided by BMW ConnectedDrive through an additional innovation: Now this complex operating strategy considers not only data collected within the car, but also data coming from other vehicles (Car 2 Car) or from sensors fitted on buildings or bridges (Car 2 Infrastructure), thus enabling the driver, say, to avoid traffic congestion in good time or find parking space far more quickly.

The services already offered by BMW ConnectedDrive to avoid traffic congestion and speed up the process of finding parking space are therefore being enhanced by further components and features serving above all to provide even greater efficiency.

Further features of intelligent energy management on BMW Vision EfficientDynamics allow the driver to influence the efficiency of the car himself. By adding an Eco Mode to the existing system of Dynamic Drive Control, for example, this new concept car enables the driver to reduce fuel consumption and emissions very effectively through his individual style of motoring.

This is done by a display in the instrument cluster instructing the driver to accelerate, apply the brakes and – in the manual mode – shift gears with maximum efficiency. In the automatic mode, in turn, the electronic control unit adjusts the gearshift map on the double-clutch gearbox and the control map of the electronic gas pedal to current driving conditions also in the interest of enhanced fuel economy.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics: the future of BMW EfficientDynamics.
The BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car demonstrates the potential of the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy to an extent never seen before. In this way BMW once again shows the company’s unusual skill and competence in developing particularly efficient high-performance drivetrain technologies.

Applying this philosophy, BMW is able to develop vehicles meeting the need for saving natural resources and at the same time offering a new rendition of Sheer Driving Pleasure. A sports car with the dynamic performance of a BMW M Car and the fuel economy of a modern small car indeed opens up highly attractive perspectives for individual mobility in the world of tomorrow.

The new concept car offers a particularly fascinating experience through its individual character. BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is neither a mere variant of a production car built for maximum efficiency nor a purely visionary study completely separated from series development. Rather, all the technologies contributing to the car’s outstanding efficiency come from a development process conceived for regular production. Indeed, some of these technologies are already in use in current BMW models, others are approaching production standard or have already proven their functional benefits in practical tests and in prototypes.

The future qualities and the typical character of BMW ActiveHybrid technology come out particularly clearly and strikingly in BMW Vision EfficientDynamics. In conjunction with the most sophisticated energy management, the intelligent combination of the electric motor and the combustion engine ensures outstandingly good fuel economy and emission management combined with a significant improvement of driving dynamics.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is therefore a particularly innovative rendition of hybrid technology BMW-style and at the same time offers a fascinating outlook into the future of BMW EfficientDynamics as an overall philosophy and a significant contribution to future-proof mobility.

Lexus LFA

Making its European debut at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show, The Lexus LF-A Roadster is the latest, open-topped version of the company’s ground-breaking LF-A sports car concept. The LF-A followed the LF-S, LF-X and LF-C vehicles as the fourth successive LF concept car to reflect the tenets of Lexus’ unique, L-finesse design philosophy, the principals of which have subsequently been realised in the latest GS, IS and LS model ranges. A development of the second generation LF-A coupe which was first unveiled at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show, the new Roadster further reflects the genesis of the Lexus ‘F’ designation; an ultra-high performance Sports range for the premium automotive segment.

Combining the cutting-edge technology and luxury refinements appropriate to the brand with the ultra-high performance and outstanding driving dynamics of an open-topped, twoseater sportscar, the LF-A Roadster is more than merely a radical statement of supercar performance. Incorporating the very latest developments in precision high-performance engineering technology with the core values of the L-finesse design philosophy, the Lexus F-Sports special vehicle programme has realised a fundamental reappraisal of both styling and engineering in supercar design, which redefines the boundaries of the ultrahigh performance sportscar landscape.

LF-A Roadster
Preliminary Technical Specifications

Power train
Engine: Sub-5.0L V10,
front-mid placement
Horsepower: Over 500 DIN hp
Top Speed: Over 320 km/h
Body & Dynamics
Aluminium and carbon-fibre body
Speed-activated rear spoiler
Torque tube encased drive shaft
Dimensions
Overal

R8 Spyder

The Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro makes a powerful statement. The sculptured lines of the emotion-packed, high-performance sports car are a fascinating and unique interpretation of its dynamism.

Unlike the Coupé, the Spyder does not have sideblades behind the doors. The side panels and the large cover over the storage compartment for the cloth top are made of a carbon fiber composite. Two arched cowls, which extend to the spoiler lip and include large, integrated air vents, give the rear of the open-top two-seater a powerful profile.

Like every open-top Audi, the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro has a cloth top – an uncompromising solution for a high-performance sports car. The soft top’s approximate weight is a mere 30 kilograms (66.14 lb); it thus keeps the vehicle’s total weight and center of gravity low. The top takes up little space when open and is a harmonious design element when closed. It tapers off to two slim fins extending to the trailing edge of the car, emphasizing the elongated silhouette.

The electrohydraulic soft top opens and closes in 19 seconds, even while driving at speeds up to 50 km/h (31.07 mph). When opened, it folds like a Z into its storage compartment over the V10 engine. The compartment cover opens and closes automatically. The heated glass window, which is separate from the cloth top, is lowered into the bulkhead. It can be independently raised and lowered at the press of a switch, with the top up or down. An additional net-like wind deflector comes standard and can be latched into the bulkhead behind the seats in two easy steps.

The top, which comprises an outer skin of a leakproof textile fabric and the headliner, is fully compatible with high-speed driving. When driving at moderate speeds with the top up, interior noise levels in the R8 Spyder are barely higher than in the Coupé. The bulkhead includes integrated rollover protection in the form of two strong, spring-tensioned plates. Head/thorax side bags in the backrests protect the passengers in the event of a side impact. Full-size airbags stand at the ready in the event of a head-on collision. In a rear-end collision, the integral head restraint system reduces the risk of whiplash injuries.

In the version with manual transmission, the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro weighs only 1,720 kilograms thanks primarily to its aluminum Audi Space Frame (ASF) body. Despite reinforcements in the area of the sills, the center tunnel, the rear wall, the floor pan and the A- and B-pillars, the body weighs only 216 kilograms (476.2 lb) – just 6 kilograms (13.23 lb) more than that of the R8 Coupé. The high stiffness of the ASF body, which includes an integrated engine frame of ultra-lightweight magnesium, provides the foundation for the car’s dynamic handling and superior safety.

Close attention to detail: the design

Numerous details demonstrate that the Audi designers put their hearts into the design of the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro. The air inlets in the nose, which direct air across the three radiators, and the lip of the front skirt are painted high-gloss black. The struts in the broad, low, single-frame grille are finely coated with chrome. The standard full-LED headlights are technical works of art. Their reflectors resemble open mussel shells; the daytime running lights appear to be a homogeneous strip, but actually comprise 24 individual LEDs that form a curve at the lower edge of the headlight.

The full-LED headlights from Audi are unmatched by its international competitors. Light-emitting diodes are used for the low beams, the high beams, the daytime running lights and the turn signals. With a color temperature of 6,000 Kelvin, the LED light is very similar to daylight, making it easier on the eyes when driving at night. Additional strengths include excellent light distribution, long service life and extremely low energy consumption.

The side sills of the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro are broad and angular. V10 badges on the flanks allude to the power of the engine. A dark surface between the rear lights emphasizes the car’s width. The chambers of the lights are colored dark red, with LEDs generating a three-dimensional light pattern. The exhaust system ends in two large, oval tailpipes, and the fully lined underbody ends in an upturned diffuser. The rear spoiler extends automatically at higher speeds.

Audi offers the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro with a choice of three colors for the top. The body is available in eleven paint finishes, with metallic and pearl effect finishes standard. The windshield frame is coated with anodized aluminum.

Sporty luxury: the interior

The open-top two-seater from Audi features a generously spacious interior. The three-spoke leather multifunction sport steering wheel is flattened at the bottom as in a race car, and the low-mounted, electrically adjustable seats guide and support the body perfectly.

Quality of fit and finish is extraordinary and the controls are clear and logical. The standard driver information system includes a lap timer for recording lap times. The instruments and the gear lever knob feature red rings. The pedals, the footrests and the shift paddles of the optional R tronic are in aluminum look. Highlighting the list of standard equipment are a generous full-leather package featuring Fine Nappa leather, an excellent sound system from Bang & Olufsen, a deluxe automatic air conditioning system and heated seats. Six different interior colors are available.

Many additional fine features documents the top status of the Audi R8 Spyder
5.2 FSI quattro. The leather for the seats are colored with pigments that reflect the infrared component of sunlight, which keeps the seats up to 20 degrees Celsius cooler.

Door sill strips coated with aluminum and adorned with black satin finish applications impart an air of luxurious sportiness.  Three storage compartments are integrated into the rear bulkhead, one of which contains the optional CD changer or Audi music interface, if desired. There is a front compartment for 100 liters (3.53 cu ft) of luggage.

The latest version of the navigation system plus with MMI operating logic is also standard in the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro. It features higher resolution and particularly fast route calculation. The system’s most visible new feature is the high-resolution, 6.5-inch display. The topographic view can be scrolled in any direction. The system can be combined optionally with a rearview camera that serves as a parking aid.

Audi offers custom extras, such as exclusive leather packages and special inlays. A worldwide first is the optional seatbelt microphone for the hands-free unit, which makes it possible to talk on the phone even with the top down on the highway. Three small, flat microphones are integrated into both seatbelts. At least one of them is ideally positioned relative to the speaker when the belt is on. There is a fourth microphone in the windshield frame.

Uncompromising power: the engine

The Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro, which was developed in cooperation with quattro GmbH, dazzles with uncompromising performance. The V10 engine with the aluminum crankcase, much of which is hand-built, follows in the grand motorsports tradition at Audi. The normally aspirated engine produces 530 Nm (390.91 lb-ft) of torque at 6,500 rpm. Peak output of 386 kW (525 hp) is reached at 8,000 rpm, and the rev limit is not reached until 8,700 rpm. Specific power output is 100.9 hp per liter of displacement; each hp only needs to move 3.3 kilograms (7.28 lb) of weight.

Performance reflects this awesome potential: 0 – 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in

4.1 seconds; 0 – 200 km/h (124.27 mph) in 12.7 seconds; top speed is 313 km/h (194.49 mph) with the six-speed manual transmission. As load and revs increase, the engine unfolds the rich, unmistakable Audi ten-cylinder sound – a powerful, throaty roar with musical undertones.

The 5.2-liter engine features FSI direct fuel injection. The high 12.5:1 compression ratio that this enables contributes to the high performance and good fuel efficiency. Equipped with a manual transmission, the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro consumes an average of 14.9 liters of fuel per 100 km (15.79 US mpg) – a good figure given its power. With R tronic, this figure improves to 13.9 liters (16.92 US mpg). Dry sump lubrication, another motorsports technology, ensures that the supply of oil is maintained even at the maximum lateral acceleration of 1.2 g.

The Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI is also available with an optional automatic six-speed transmission. The R tronic offers a normal and a sport program as well as a fully automatic and a manual mode. The manual mode allows the driver to make lightning-fast gear changes using the joystick on the center tunnel or with the paddles on the steering wheel. The open-air sports car also comes with “Launch Control” – a program that manages engagement of the clutch perfectly to maximize acceleration at start.

The quattro permanent all-wheel drive features a central viscous coupling and distributes power to all four wheels with a heavy rear bias. It works together with the locking differential on the rear axle to provide significantly greater traction, stability, cornering speed and precision. It is the superior technology – in particular for a high-performance sports car.

Dazzling performance: the chassis

The Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro has a 2.65-meter (8.69-ft) wheelbase and a 43:57 axle load distribution. Like in a race car, there are double triangular wishbones made of aluminum at all four wheels. The hydraulic rack-and-pinion power steering conveys highly precise road contact.

The chassis is tuned for good comfort, thanks in part to standard Audi magnetic ride technology. This uses magnetic fields in the shock absorbers to adjust their response to road conditions within milliseconds and adapt to the driver’s style. The driver can choose between two base characteristics. A sports suspension with conventional shock absorbers is available as an option.

The R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro rolls on 19-inch wheels of 10-spoke Y design. The front rims are shod with 235/35 tires, with 295/30 tires at the back. 305/30 tires are optionally available. The brakes offer impressive performance: The four discs are internally ventilated and perforated, with eight-piston calipers up front and four-piston calipers at the back. Optionally available from Audi are oversized carbon fiber-ceramic discs that are extremely lightweight, robust and long-lived. The ESP stabilization system has a Sport mode and can also be completely deactivated. The brake system includes an assist function that facilitates starting on gradients.

The Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro is built by quattro GmbH at the Neckarsulm plant. The vehicle, including the ASF, is largely hand-built. The open-top two-seater will be launched in 2010. Prices and specifications for the Middle East have not been set yet.

Hummer Hx Concept

HX CONCEPT PROVIDES VISION OF A RUGGED, OPEN-AIR
HUMMER
• Youthful, open-air entry-level-size HUMMER
• Designed by three young designers
• Convertible body with removable roof panels and modular rear roof assembly
• Easily removable fender flares and doors
• Full-time 4WD with front and rear locking differentials
• Aeronautically inspired interior with functional, lightweight design elements
• Reconfigurable instruments for highway and off-road driving
• 3.6L direct-injected V-6 E85 FlexFuel engine with six-speed automatic transmission

GENEVA – With its unmistakable HUMMER design and a compact, go-anywhere driving ethic,
the HUMMER HX concept challenges the hierarchy of the trail. HUMMER displayed the nimble,
reconfigurable off-roader at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show.
More compact than a HUMMER H3 – 2,057 mm wide, with a 2,616-mm wheelbase – the HX
concept is an open-air, two-door off-road vehicle that packs the off-road acumen for which
HUMMER has become legendary, along with an easily convertible body that acclimates to
varied trail conditions, cargo needs or passenger whims. Its design is based on the ideas
developed by a trio of young designers who are new to the HUMMER studio.
“The HX is HUMMER’s vision of an agile, trail-ready, open-air vehicle that fits the lifestyles of
everyone who needs or wants to drive off road,” said Martin Walsh, HUMMER general manager.
“Of course, it carries exceptional off-road capability and the distinctive styling for which all
HUMMERs are known.”
The HX offers an open-air driving experience via a pair of removable roof panels above the
driver and front passenger, and a modular, removable rear roof assembly. With the roof panels
and roof assembly removed, the HX is transformed into a true convertible.
Easy removal of the roof panels and rear-roof assembly enables quick conversion from a closed
vehicle to an open one. The HX also was designed with several roof assemblies, allowing this
versatile vehicle to be configured as an SUT (with the roof assembly removed), a stylish slantback
or a traditional, wagon-like design that offers a bit more cargo space.
The HX was shown with a slant-back configuration, wearing a desert-inspired matte olive paint
scheme, at the Geneva Motor Show. Additional convertible features include:
• Removable doors – easily removable pins in the exposed hinges allow the doors to be
removed quickly – an appreciated feature of many serious off-roaders
• Removable fender flares – attached with quarter-turn quick-release fasteners, the
composite fender flares can be quickly removed for additional trail/rock clearance, or if
the flare is damaged during off-road driving
“The modular design of the roof and removable body panels mark an evolution of HUMMER’s
design aesthetic,” said Carl Zipfel, director of design. “These features demonstrate a deeper
understanding of enthusiast desires when it comes to off-road driving – and the slant-back
design gives the HX a look all its own.”
Purposeful exterior
The design of the HX was driven by input from three young designers who were new to GM and
the HUMMER design studio. As part of their “initiation,” they were charged with developing
concept drawings for a smaller, youthful HUMMER and the HX is a direct result of their
creativity. The HX concept is based on one of the designers’ original illustrations, but
incorporates the best ideas and elements from the other designs.
“HUMMER appeals to young people globally and served as a perfect first assignment for our
newest talent,” said Ed Welburn, vice president, Global Design. “Today’s graduates from top
design schools are ready to hit the ground running. The HUMMER design challenge gave our
newest designers an opportunity to sprint.”
Inside and out, the HX carries a purposeful aesthetic that, from initial sketches to finalized clay
models, was refined in only six months.
“This is the HUMMER design language stripped down to its essence,” said David Rojas,
creative designer. “The HX has an aggressive appearance and great proportions, with beauty
lying in its functional austerity.”
On the exterior, the lightweight theme is evidenced in the appearance of exposed, billet
aluminum suspension components that feature CNC-machined lightening relieves, as well as
clean, unadorned bodywork and minimal trim. The lightweight theme is taken to its extreme
when the roof panels, roof assembly, fender flares and doors are removed.
Classic HUMMER design cues make the HX instantly recognizable, including the round
headlamps located in square housings, an upright windshield profile, minimal overhangs, hood
vents and prominent air intakes. The air intakes are functional and feed a V-6 engine beneath
the hood, while the hood vents are active – they articulate to allow hot underhood air to escape.
And while the headlamps and grille are clearly HUMMER cues, they’ve evolved on the HX with
a “chopped circle” motif. The grille slots and headlamps, as well as elements on the interior,
have the appearance of circles or ovals that have been clipped at the top and bottom, creating a
unique appearance that speaks to the vehicle’s purposeful aesthetic.
“The ‘cut-off’ circles suggest larger, heavy-duty components that were trimmed to fit the
compact HX,” said Rojas.
And while it is unadorned by extraneous embellishments, the HX’s exterior is nonetheless
outfitted with features that speak to HUMMER’s legacy of technology and innovation, including
HID headlamps with focusing rings that adjust automatically when they’re turned on – much like
the lens of an auto-focus SLR-type camera. LED technology is used for the front turn signal
lamps and taillamps.
Aeronautically inspired interior
From aircraft-inspired seats to integrated, off-road-ready tools, the HUMMER HX’s interior has a
beauty that lies in its purposeful intent. It was inspired by the functional and lightweight elements
found in aircraft.
“Aeronautical parts are designed to be both lightweight and strong, and that is the feeling
exuded by the HX’s cabin,” said Stuart Norris, interior design manager. “There isn’t superfluous
trim or decoration – it is a purposeful design that conveys beauty through strength.”
Reinforcing the stripped-to-the-essence feel, the exterior’s matte olive color carries over onto
the interior’s largely sheet metal-covered panels. The color is accented with pressed or extruded
aluminum components, such as the handles, switches and other necessary parts.
Furthering the aeronautical influence is the instrument panel, which uses an exposed, extruded
aluminum cross-vehicle beam as its foundation. On the beam, the instrument cluster and other
vital controls are mounted; and it also features a unique, removal top cover that provides
significant storage capability.
“The instrument panel is a styling element of the HX, and the removal of the top cover reveals a
secondary design that enhances the vehicle’s core design ethic,” said Norris. “With the top
cover removed, the interior conveys even more of a basic essence – and the structure beneath
the cover is beautiful to those who appreciate finely crafted metal.”
A rubberized floor and ballistic nylon-material covering on the instrument panel and other
interior components reinforces the functional aesthetic.
Seating and console details
Like aircraft seats, the HX’s seats are constructed on a lightweight framework with minimal
components that feature lightening holes and strength-enhancing cross braces or triangulations.
They are mounted on exposed, aircraft-style tracks and trimmed with a weather-resistant
neoprene material.
The HX seats four, with a pair of bucket-type seats in the second row. The rear seats mimic the
front seats’ design and can be removed to generate more cargo room. All the seats feature a
four-point, racing-style safety harness.
The inner seat track on both front seats is located beneath the outer edges of a prominent
center console. The console offers exceptional storage capability and houses a unique shifter
that mounts low and out of the way when the vehicle is parked – also hiding from sight the
engine starter button. It has a spring-loaded cover that pops up when the driver is ready to
select a gear.
The console also houses a resting place for phones, MP3 player and iPods or iPhones. In fact,
there is no conventional radio in the HX, only integrated speakers. Passengers plug in an iPod,
or similar device, to a USB connector to play music in the HX.
“From the console to the cargo area behind the seats, there are simply untold storage
possibilities within the HX,” said Norris. “It’s like a four-wheel backpack that’s already fitted with
the necessities.”
Gauges and tools
The “cut-off circles” motif of the exterior is seen even more so on the HX’s interior, as the gauge
cluster, instrument panel vents and even the steering wheel carry the design element.
A three-element gauge cluster – each of the three instrument “pods” carries the cut-off circle
design – delivers crucial driver information in either a highway or off-road mode. This conceptual
reconfigurable gauge layout uses LCD screens with multiple layouts, including a navigation
system. The nav system features GPS and compass information; and is designed to upload trail
information before setting off on an excursion.
The center gauge pod houses a speedometer and tachometer, but changes to a wheel angle
indicator when the transmission is in the low position. This off-road mode changeover from the
highway mode gives the driver information that is more pertinent to the driver conditions. The
trail view of a camera mounted in the rear-view mirror can be displayed on the instrument panel,
too.
The off-road mode features of the instrument panel comprise the virtual tools of the HX, while
others are mounted for physical use, including a folding shovel, flashlight and first-aid kit. They
all carry the “clipped circle” design motif found throughout the vehicle.
Ready for rocks, trails and more
With its compact dimensions, almost no overhangs and grippy 35-inch tires, the HX is ready for
all terrains. Like all HUMMER production models, the HX has sturdy, body-on-frame
construction, onto which is mounted front and rear independent suspensions.
The front suspension features an electronic-disconnecting stabilizer bar for enhanced
maneuverability when driving off road, and the rear suspension is located with Computer
Numerical Controlled (CNC)-machined, billet trailing arms. Heavy-duty shocks with piggyback
reservoirs were custom-made for the HX by renowned racing shock manufacturer Fox; one is
mounted at each wheel position.
A full-time 4WD system pulls the HX over, through and around off-road obstacles. It transfers
torque to the front and rear axles, each of which is equipped with a locking differential. The
torque meets the trail via custom 35-inch-tall off-road tires that are mounted on a set of custom,
bead-lock-style wheels that have a two-tone appearance; dark-painted wheel centers
complemented by silver-anodized outer rims.
A complete underbody armor kit, including a front skid plate, powetrain protection and more,
protects the HX from wayward rocks and other potentially damaging objects. A power-operated
winch is located in the front bumper, and the HX has recovery hooks mounted on the front and
rear bumpers, just in case its help is required for wrangling others out of unfortunate off-road
situations.
Motivation for the HX comes from an E85 FlexFuel 3.6L direct-injected V-6 that is backed by a
six-speed automatic transmission. The transmission is teamed with the 4WD system to offer
exceptional low-speed traction and crawling capability. Four-wheel-disc brakes provide
confident stopping power.

SPECIFICATIONS HUMMER HX CONCEPT
Model: HUMMER HX Concept
Body style / driveline: two-door, four-seat open-top, four wheel-drive
Construction: welded steel frame, electro galvanized steel
Engine type: 3.6L V-6 VVT (variable valve timing) with sparkignition,
direct injection
Displacement (cm3): 217 / 3564
Bore x stroke (mm): 94 x 85.6
Block material: sand-cast aluminium with cast-in bore liners
Cylinder head material: cast aluminium
Valvetrain: DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, variable valve
timing (VVT)
Fuel delivery: direct high-pressure fuel injection
Compression ratio: 11.3:1
Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm): 304 / 227 @ 6300 tpm (est)
Torque (Nm @ rpm): 273 / 370 @ 5200 tpm (est)
Fuel Type: unleaded regular or E85 ethanol
Transmission: Hydra-Matic 6L50 six-speed electronically
control automatic transmission
Suspension: front: independent SLA, custom Fox Racing coilover
shocks; 2-in shocks, 2.5-in springs
rear: semi-trailing link, custom Fox Racing coilover
shocks; 2-in shocks, 2.5-in springs
Wheel travel (mm): front: 228
rear: 279
Brakes four-wheel disc; Brembo 6-piston calipers (front);
Brembo 4-piston calipers (rear)
Rotor diameter x thickness (mm): 381 x 31.75
Wheel size & type: 20-inch x 9-inch
Tires: 35-inch custom Bridgestone Dueler
Wheelbase (mm): 2616
Overall length: 4343
Overall width (mm): 2057
Overall height (mm): 1829
Track (mm): 1702 (front); 1727 (rear)
Minimum ground clearance front
(mm):
320
Approach angle (degrees): 56
Departure angle (degrees): 51
Breakover angle (degrees): 25
Grade capability (percent): 60
Side slope capability (percent): 40
Water fording capability (mm): 610 (at 8 km/h)
Seating capacity: 4

Veyron

Over 60 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 delivered worldwide
Geneva _ by the end of February Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. will have delivered 60 Bugatti
Veyron 16.4 to date. As a result, the planned production volume has been exceeded.

After the start of production of the Bugatti Veyron in Alsatian Molsheim at the end of 2005 and the delivery
of the first vehicle in March 2006, Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. has reached the planned 50 units for the fi rst
production year. This is interesting to note, because the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 is a completely new model
and thus has not been able to rely on already existing components.
In December 2003, the responsibility for Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. went to Dr. Thomas Bscher, the new
president of the company. Dr. Wolfgang Schreiber was appointed as technical director and manager of Bugatti
Engineering. The entire Bugatti project was then completely reassessed and a new schedule for the completion
date of the super sports car was decided. The objectives established in this process have all been achieved
since then.
Production of the Bugatti Veyron has been limited to a maximum of 300 units. The number of units for the fi rst
production year has amounted to – as announced – 50 vehicles. Today, Bugatti is already able to increase the
annual production volume and thus is able to reduce the customer waiting time.

Promising order entry
“In 2007 we are planning to increase the production of the Bugatti Veyron”, said Dr. Thomas Bscher at the
International Geneva Motor Show, “because the order entry for the Veyron is getting close to a 140 and we
wouldn’t want our customers to have to wait longer for their Bugatti.”
“It is not unexpected”, continued Dr Bscher, “that most of the orders come from the US; traditionally the most
important market for luxury vehicles. 30% of the 140 contracts received up to now with a down payment of
EUR 300,000, which is the condition for the production of the vehicle to start, come from the United States. This
means that that is where – on a country basis – up to now most of the Bugatti Veyron have been delivered.
In Europe, the majority of the demand comes from England and Germany, which are the two most important
markets for luxury cars outside the US. Naturally, the Bugatti Veyron super sports car has also created interest
in the Middle Eastern countries and deliveries to Arab countries underline the pleasant sales trend of this
unique vehicle.

A worldwide network of contract partners
Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. highly values supporting the vehicles sold with a worldwide organisation of Bugatti
bases. Within a year, a network of Bugatti sales and service partners has been developed – now covering 26
locations. Consistent with the sales fi gures, the USA is also top in this area with nine contact points. Five on the
west coast, one in Florida and the traditional areas in the east with three partners sharing the responsibility.
Also in Europe, the important luxury car markets such as Germany, England, France, Monaco, Benelux, Austria,
Italy, Spain and Switzerland are already covered.
It goes without saying that the uniqueness of the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 has also not gone unnoticed in the socalled
new markets. Thus, increasing demand can be seen in China and Russia. As Bugatti has set itself the goal
of delivering only to areas where the company is also represented by competent contact partners, these enquiries
will be treated with a certain level of caution until the development of the sales and service organisation.

Old and new in Geneva
Today, the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 already has its place in car history as an undisputed classic. It embodies everything
that is technologically and technically possible in automobile construction on a level which is absolutely
unreached and will remain so for some time.
But also the Veyron models itself on the heritage and the value of the brand. « Art – form – technique » the
legacy of the company founder is as signifi cant today as in 1931 when the Type 55 was created and one of
these Type 55 models is shown at this year‘s International Geneva Motor Show on the Bugatti stand. Thus, the
link between the “thoroughbred” of the 30s and the “pur sang” of the 21st century will be highlighted in an
impressive way.

The Type 55 Roadster
In 1931, the Type 55 replaced the Type 43 super sport tour car with a Grand Prix motor. The Type 55 Bugatti
now used the 2.3 litre Grand Prix motor with a compressor from the Type 51 and the very stiff chassis of the
Type 47 designed for a 16 cylinder motor. Thus it brought together different ingredients to make one of the
best Bugatti vehicles. The brakes and tyres of the Type 55 were identical to those of the Type 51. The draft
of the lovely two-seater roadster body offered by the factory stemmed from Jean Bugatti. Apart from the
roadster also the so-called “Faux Cabriolet” was offered by the factory, a coupé whose design also came from
Jean. In total 38 chassis of the Type 55 were manufactured between 1931 and 1935, 13 of them had the
famous roadster body shown here.
The acceleration of the Type 55 was amazing. From 0 to 100km/h in under 10 seconds. Whilst steering and
road holding around bends convinced, many drivers wished for a gearbox like the Grand Prix one instead of the
sluggish Type 49 gear box. In 1933, a test journalist wrote the following about the Type 55 in “Autocar”: “One
doesn’t expect an engine of this type to run noiselessly. Whilst the exhaust noise of the car is noticeable but
tolerable, there are a lot of mechanical noises that are caused by the gear box and the closely toothed wheels
of the camshaft drive system. At high speed these individual noises turn into a wild, impressive howl. Road
holding and handling are so excellent that one can zip around bends with the car. As it doesn’t swerve one
feels completely safe. For a car of this type the suspension can be called comfortable…. Some experience has to
be used on the gear box, the fi rst and second gear slightly “hang” at high engine speed otherwise they can be
changed quickly”.
More than any other Bugatti, the elegant Type 55 is a wolf in sheep‘s clothing.

An international car
The new Veyron is an impressive platform of top end automotive technology and – loyal to Bugatti’s heritage
« nothing is too expensive, nothing is too beautiful » – only the best parts and materials in the trade are used
in the production process. And the Veyron is a truly international car. One of the key- and most sophisticated
parts, the 7 speed-sequential-DSG-double-clutch-gearbox, is made by motor sport specialists Ricardo in the UK,
the unique 16 cylinder-8.0-litre-engine comes from the Volkswagen engine plant in Salzgitter in Germany.
The tyres – the fi rst production tyres in the industry homologated for speeds above 400 km/h – are a joint
development with Michelin. The carbon fi bre mono coque is built by ATR in Italy, the front- and rear-structure
in forged aluminium by Heggemann in Germany and the bespoke carbon-ceramic brakes by AP Racing in Great
Britain. The paintwork is German, the leather Austrian, the windscreen is manufactured in Finland, and so it
goes on.

50 years down the road, a car make once again
Today, nearly 50 years later to the day, the production of Bugatti automobiles in Molsheim is resuming, making
Molsheim once again the hub of the Bugatti world. As a centre for reminiscence, this picturesque, small city
near Strasbourg has never lost its significance.
The area’s ‘Enthusiasts Bugatti Alsace’, together with their friends in the various Bugatti clubs throughout the
entire world, are in large measure responsible for keeping the brand alive over the decades – even in the absence
of the product itself. This is an experience, which various other prestigious automobile brands with melodious
names have not shared.
It is in this fact that the strength of the Bugatti brand values is expressed most clearly. The admiration for
‘art on wheels’, the cool achievement of the aesthetic tenacity of Ettore Bugatti, who was a man who was fi rst
and foremost an artist, not a technician. The grandeur of the victories in the glorious years of dirt-encrusted
heroes on the racecourses of this world and, not least, the suitability of these racing cars for everyday driving –
the latter is what made Bugatti cars accessible to a broader clientele. The prestige of inspired design and the
exclusiveness of individual models that helped catapult certain Bugatti models into the astronomical price
classes.
In 1956, the fi nal attempts had failed, in the wake of the death of the company’s founder in 1947 – preceded
in death in 1939 by his son Jean, with whom he collaborated – to keep the substantially weakened company
alive. After 47 years’ production, in the course of which 7,950 Bugatti’s of models 13 through 251 had been
manufactured, the gates to the Bugatti factory in Molsheim were forced to close.
In April 1998, the Volkswagen Group took over the Bugatti trademark and the brand has been developing ever
since.

Rolls Royce Ghost

A Rolls for everyone?

Autumn 2006, Paris motor show: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars announced that work had begun on a new model series. The new car would be in production and on sale by the turn of the decade. The only other facts confirmed at that stage were that it would be smaller than the Phantom saloon and priced somewhere between €200,000 and €300,000 before tax. Speculation about its style and specification began almost immediately…

Little was seen of the new car, codenamed RR4, until the spring of 2008, when Rolls-Royce released the first official sketches. The styling was instantly recognisable as a Rolls-Royce, although less traditional than previous models. At the time Chief Designer, Ian Cameron, said, “The RR4 has a more informal presence than the Phantom models with a greater emphasis on driving. In design terms this is expressed through its slightly smaller dimensions, yet with powerful, purposeful proportions. It is a true and uncompromising Rolls-Royce in every sense.”

As sightings of secret development models on the road increased, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars unveiled 200EX, the experimental forerunner to Ghost, at the Geneva motor show in March 2009. An instant hit, 200EX bore the trademark Rolls-Royce design cues but in altogether more compelling fashion. It was a clear statement of intent.

What the design team was seeking to create was a modern Rolls-Royce that achieved a new dynamism but remained true to its luxurious heritage. They had found inspiration in contemporary furniture, architecture and yachts but also in the spirit of the 1930s – that sense of adventure and endeavour – which they wanted to capture in the character of this new car.

“200EX is a modern execution of timeless Rolls-Royce elegance, breaking with some areas of tradition but retaining the core values that make our marque unique,” said Chief Executive Officer Tom Purves. “We expect the more informal design to broaden the appeal of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, attracting people who appreciate its fusion of refinement, new technology and contemporary style.”

After the show, 200EX embarked on a world tour, during which further information about the forthcoming production model became available. It would be powered by a new 6.6 litre V12 unique to the marque, delivering 563 bhp with extraordinary performance figures. It would ride on an intelligent air suspension system offering peerless ride and dynamics. And it would be called Ghost.

“Ghost is one of the most revered names in automotive industry,” said Tom Purves. “It evokes images of adventure and technical innovation. The first cars to bear the Ghost name were known not only for impressive dependability and refinement but also great flair and style.”

Following the overwhelmingly positive reaction to 200EX during its travels, very few changes were made in the transition to the production Ghost – a tribute to the remarkable achievements of Ian Cameron’s and Helmut Riedl’s design and engineering teams.

In September 2009, the new Rolls-Royce Ghost was formally launched to the world.

DESIGNING THE FUTURE

“Simplicity is the hardest design principle to follow.”
Ian Cameron, Chief Designer

Ghost’s flowing lines are dominated by its majestic ‘Yacht Line’ styling. Large, uninterrupted surfaces flow between finely sculpted horizontal lines that provide definition. Together, the upward-sweeping sill line and low-cut roof create a powerful profile, almost as though the cabin has been pushed toward the rear. Powerful shoulders and flanks draw in sharply as they flow from the rear wings to the tail lights, while touches such as the optional chromed exhausts hint at Ghost’s more dynamic nature.

While incorporating classic Rolls-Royce design cues – the elevated prow, long bonnet, short front overhang, sharply raked A-pillar and elegant tail – Ghost exudes an informal aura. Contemporary touches include self-righting wheel centres and the Xenon headlamps that frame the latest evolution of the Rolls-Royce grille. Here the sides of the intake have been curved inwards and the vanes set back into the opening. “We wanted this to be less reminiscent of the traditional Parthenon style and more like a jet intake,” says Ian Cameron.

A contrasting Silver Satin finish (introduced on 200EX) is an option for the bonnet, grille and windscreen surround. The finish is achieved by setting silver metallic paint under a layer of lacquer, giving a flawless matte finish.

The central principle of delivering simplicity out of complexity runs throughout Ghost. Everything is designed, engineered and crafted to enhance the drive and ride experience, not to complicate it.

“Ghost is as refined and cosseting as anything this marque has ever produced.”
Charles Coldham, Interior Designer

Inside Ghost, the interior design team has come up with a contemporary ambience while staying true to Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ traditions of fine materials and peerless comfort. There are elegant, frosted lamps and chrome door handles, traditional violin key switches and eyeball air vents, frosted white dials and refined instrumentation. Deep-pile carpets can be complemented by optional lambswool floor mats for a truly luxurious feel.

Ghost is entered through substantial doors. Housed within the front doors are integrated Teflon-coated umbrellas. The rear doors are traditional, rear-hinged coach doors, opening to a generous 83 degrees. Once the passenger is inside, these doors can be closed at the touch of a button. The interior space is filled with natural light, enhanced by the optional Panorama Sunroof, which extends from the front into the rear compartment.

Four-zone automatic air conditioning can be individually tailored to each passenger’s requirements, with separate controls for front and rear. Automatic air recirculation, condensation prevention and solar compensation are delivered through classic chromed eyeball vents controlled via organ-stop plungers.

Within Ghost’s ample doors and high shoulder line, occupants feel serene, cosseted and safe. In the rear, the intimate ambience of the lounge seat is emphasised by its position behind the C-pillar, heightening the sense of privacy. The informal seating creates a convivial environment, its slight curve allowing you to turn more easily towards the person next to you. Its elevated position gives a clear view past the electronically retracting Spirit of Ecstasy to the road ahead.

Individual lounge seating is offered as an alternative to the standard lounge configuration. This allows the addition of a massage function and also perforated leather for a cooling stream of air from the seat surface. Auxiliary rear climate control allows the passenger to regulate the temperature of the air on their side of the car, without intrusion on the other. A cool box with interior illumination and integrated champagne glasses is also available.

Veneered picnic tables are another option, incorporating the finest leather and veneers matched to the rest of Ghost’s interior. Fitted to the rear of each front seat, these tables are a traditional Rolls-Royce design cue and finished with a veneered surface with leather-covered backs.

“Ghost is designed to be an escape from the outside world.”
Alan Sheppard, Interior Designer

Enhancing the Ghost ambience is an audio system delivering an exquisite experience. 600 Watts of sound are delivered through a 10-channel amplifier and 16 speakers, including two floor-mounted subwoofers. USB and auxiliary inputs allow for the integration of external audio devices and a 12.5 GB hard drive enables storage of music files from USB or CD player sources.

Available as an option with both seating arrangements is Theatre Configuration, which allows all settings that do not directly affect the driver to be controlled from the rear seat. The functions are displayed on two 9.2in LCD screens in the back of the front seats; these can be angled to suit the viewers by a central, armrest-mounted, rotary controller. The screens can be regulated independently of each other and the entertainment can also be listened to individually with most headphones. A six-disc multi-media changer, mounted in the glove compartment, is fitted as part of this option.

ENGINEERING A BENCHMARK

“The balance of refinement and dynamic ability is astonishing.”
Helmut Riedl, Engineering Director

When considering a Rolls-Royce car it is usual to think of wood, leather and chrome, but the company has its roots in engineering. The refinement of its end product stems from its engineers’ desire to get the smallest details correct. Long before the interior items are prepared, experts are working to ensure that the chassis components, power trains and bodywork are operating in fluid harmony. This is a world where welds are an art form and craftsmanship exists at a nano level.

Ghost is built around a steel monocoque body, which means there is no separation of chassis and body. The advantage of this construction is a reduction in exterior dimensions while preserving interior space. Consequently while Ghost is 400mm shorter overall than the Phantom saloon its interior space is comparable.

The body has been engineered with a double front bulkhead to help insulate the interior from engine noise. It is constructed from steel sections and then wrapped in steel panels, which are brazed by hand. This allows a near-seamless join, which is then sanded by hand until it is perfect. In total, Ghost’s frame contains 4.9m of seam weld and braze and 6,988 spot-welds. The bonnet and windscreen surround are then honed from aluminium.

“A Rolls-Royce should be graceful in every way: the way it handles, feels and brakes.”
Helmut Riedl, Engineering Director

Ghost rides on a bed of air. Double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension work with an intelligent, four-cornered, air-suspension system and electronic variable damping to deliver the refinement that has been associated with Rolls-Royce for more than 100 years.

The new air suspension system in Ghost is so sensitive that it can detect even the smallest of changes. For example, it will sense the movement of a single rear passenger from one side of the seat to the other and compensate accordingly. A complex computer system reads multiple inputs from sensors around the car; the dampers alone make individual load calculations every 2.5 milliseconds. This ensures not only perfect comfort but also precise steering and dynamics for the driver. The air suspension system also incorporates a lift and kneel function, raising or lowering Ghost by 25mm.

Ghost also has a series of complex electronic aids to keep it composed on virtually any surface. These include Anti-Roll Stabilisation, Dynamic Brake Control and Dynamic Stability Control, including Dynamic Traction Control and Cornering Brake Control. These individual technologies work together under dual Integrated Chassis Management systems, meaning that even when subjected to a vigorous test Ghost remains perfectly poised. Its handling and safety systems operate as one, imperceptibly to the driver and passengers, to maintain optimum contact with the road in any condition.

“Our challenge,” says Engineering Director Helmut Riedl, “has been to preserve the prerequisite levels of comfort while delivering the most modern, dynamically interesting drive ever in a Rolls-Royce.”

Ghost is powered by a brand new, 6.6 litre twin-turbo V12 engine, unique to the model. Featuring direct injection, it produces 563bhp – enough to propel Ghost from 0-60 mph in just 4.7 seconds* and on to an electronically governed top speed of 155mph. With 780 Nm of torque available at just 1,500rpm, delivery of power is immediate and extremely smooth.

Power is transmitted through an eight-speed, shift-by-wire, automatic ZF gearbox. What this achieves is a feeling of endless, surging power, which is illustrated by the power reserve gauge on the fascia, replacing the more common rev counter. The new powertrain delivers this performance while emitting just 317g/km of CO₂. Fuel consumption is 20.8 mpg / 13.6 l/100km.*

Safety remains paramount and the very latest technologies are used in Ghost. Side-impact beams in the front and rear doors combine with progressive rear crumple zones to absorb impacts. The Advanced Crash and Safety Management (ACSM) system takes measurements 2,000 times per second from sensors located around the vehicle. The ACSM uses this information – in conjunction with the engine and chassis management systems – to judge which safety features to deploy in which areas in the event of an accident. If necessary, ACSM will activate – among other things – seatbelt pre-tensioners and all encompassing airbags surrounding the cabin, creating a safe zone for all occupants.

A MODERN ROLLS-ROYCE

Ghost is the most powerful car that Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has ever produced. However, Rolls-Royce power is delivered in a very different manner to other cars. It arrives in an elegant, cosseting way that some have described as being designed to lower the pulse, not raise it.

The principle of simplicity extends to the act of driving Ghost. The host of complex engineering software and technologies beneath the surface serve to make driving easier and more enjoyable, not to intrude or confuse.

“Nothing should distract from the pleasure of driving Ghost.”

Helmut Riedl, Engineering Director

Ghost is more driver-focused than any Rolls-Royce car before it. The driver sits in a slightly elevated position behind the wheel, described as the authority position. This makes the view of the road much clearer. The fascia has been kept deliberately clear; it is spacious in design and has an intuitive layout. The controls are neatly sculpted, with the more important functions emphasised by accents of chrome. The soft light of the instrument panel glows through the familiar black-rimmed steering wheel, which in turn employs a number of violin keys as well as an ergonomic roller-ball control.

The control centre display is concealed behind a veneered panel until its services are called upon. All features such as satellite navigation, telephone, communication and entertainment functions are displayed here and managed via a central rotary controller, flanked by quick-access buttons on the front centre console.

The optional driver assistance systems and technologies in Ghost are notable for their discretion and ease of operation. From the moment the driver approaches the car, optional Comfort Entry** allows easy access, unlocking the doors when the key fob is within 1.5 metres and the cool chromed handle is grasped. Once you are in the car, voice control allows you to select from the control systems menus without using the central controller.

For ease of manoeuvring, cameras located around the car serve a number of purposes. Rear, front side and top view cameras can combine to give a fish-eye view at blind junctions or provide ground images with obstacle recognition and reverse path prediction when parking.

Positioned discreetly within the grille is a Night Vision** camera. When activated, this safety feature works with Pedestrian Recognition to detect objects up to 300 metres away and display them on the central screen in the dash. The car’s control system receives infrared heat images from the camera and, taking into account the car’s speed and direction, classifies them to assess imminent danger. It then determines what action, if any, needs to be taken and if necessary displays a warning to the driver.

The Head-up Display relays crucial information such as speed or navigation directions onto the windscreen directly in front of the driver. This information is visible only to the driver and can be tailored to show only the details required and at a position suitable to the driver.

Lane Departure Warning** alerts the driver should the car start to drift out of its current lane. When activated, it uses an integrated camera, located just in front of the rear view mirror, to monitor road markings and the vehicle’s position. The driver is warned by a discreet vibration through the steering wheel. If the driver uses the directional indicators before and after the lane change, the wheel will not vibrate.

High Beam Assistance** automatically manages the operation of dipped and main beam lights while driving at night. When activated, the same camera used by the Lane Departure Warning system monitors the light from any source at the front of the vehicle and automatically dips or raises the headlights accordingly. Adaptive, directional headlights also improve illumination of the road ahead and adapt to the road conditions, be they rain or fog or simply when the car is making a turn.

Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go** creates a relaxing driving experience, particularly on long cruising journeys, as action is not required when the car ahead speeds up or slows down, even when coming to a standstill. Active Brake Intervention** also allows hill descent at a constant speed and the car’s Curve Speed Limiter communicates with the car’s Dynamic Stability Control systems to reduce speed on bends if safety and comfort may be compromised.

LEGENDARY CRAFTSMANSHIP

Rolls-Royce has a reputation for producing cars that transcend the mere automotive. There is a magic attached to the name, which stems in part from exquisite attention to detail and the fine materials used throughout.

Passing through 60 pairs of hands, the production process involves more than 2,000 individual operations and takes at least 20 days to complete.

“We don’t just paint our cars, we strive to create an incredibly deep, flawless shine.”
Lisa Taylor, Paint Associate

Ghost shares the same paint shop as Phantom and spends seven days being painted and polished to perfection. Five stages are required for the Ghost body. First a phosphate electro-coat is applied to protect against corrosion, then a layer of primer, a colour coat and finally two coats of clear lacquer. The body is hand-sanded between each layer and once the final coat is applied it is hand-polished for five hours.

Ghost is available in 12 exterior colours, each of which can be contrasted by the optional Silver Satin bonnet.

Flawless leather is an absolute requirement for the interior of a Rolls-Royce. For this reason, our leather is sourced from bulls raised in pastures free of barbed wire, ensuring that there are fewer imperfections in the leather. Any other marks are carefully avoided by our skilled laser cutters. At least eight hides are used for an interior, and to ensure colour consistency, each hide comes from a batch dyed at the same time. The hides are drum-dyed rather than painted, ensuring that the colour permeates right through the leather. The process also means the leather remains much more supple, preventing cracking or squeaking and ensuring durability and longevity. All seats and interior panels are hand-stitched, using traditional upholstering techniques by those most skilled at their craft.

The natural beauty of the veneers in Ghost is brought to life by the skill of dedicated craftsmen and women. The natural burrs and grains are chosen for their intricacy and interest: veneer specialists choose only the finest logs from which these very thin cross sections are taken. Only veneer from one tree is used in any car. This ensures not only that the grain matches throughout the interior, but that each area ages and colours at the same pace. The parts are milled and sanded by hand before being coated with five layers of lacquer for protection and a mirror-like shine.

EPILOGUE

Ghost is a vision of simplicity – of taking the core values of Rolls-Royce and creating contemporary effortless luxury. Ghost has been engineered to ride and drive in peerless fashion. The chassis’ poise delivers a dynamically engaging experience for the driver, yet a serene, comfortable ride for passengers. Engine power is delivered in a manner which has become an engineering signature, seemingly effortlessly and endlessly. The latest in-car technology falls easily to hand while forming part of the background.

Ghost embodies 21st-century Rolls-Royce: more than 100 years of engineering and design excellence expressed in modern and uncompromised style.

*Rest of World specification – figures for North America can be found in the technical specification

** Option not available in some markets due to legal restrictions

Colour, trim and options

Exterior colours:

Adriatic Blue

Claret

Darkest Tungsten

Dark Indigo

Diamond Black

English White

Ensign Red

Jubilee Silver

Lunar Blue

Metropolitan Blue

New Sable

Sea Green

Leather colours

Black

Consort Red

Crème light

Dark Spice

Fleet Blue

Moccasin

Pine Green

Seashell

Veneers

Elm Cluster

Dark Wenge

Malabar

Piano Black

Walnut Burr

Technical specification

Rest of World:

*The engine is designed for Octane 95 fuel

North America

Press contacts
Goodwood
Director of Global Communications
Richard Carter +44 (0) 1243 384060 richard.carter@rolls-roycemotorcars.com

Product PR
Jon Stanley +44 (0) 1243 384062 jon.stanley@rolls-roycemotorcars.com
Anna Reynolds +44 (0) 1243 384065 anna.reynolds@rolls-roycemotorcars.com

Corporate Communications
Andrew Ball +44 (0) 1243 384064 andrew.ball@rolls-roycemotorcars.com
Marco Jahn +44 (0) 1243 384067 marco.jahn@rolls-roycemotorcars.com

Asia Pacific
Hal Serudin +65 6838 9675 hal.serudin@rolls-roycemotorcars.com

Europe /Middle East
Frank Tiemann + 49 (0) 89 382 29581 frank.tiemann@rolls-roycemotorcars.com

North America
Karen Vonder Meulen +1 201 307 3788 karen.vondermeulen@rolls-roycemotorcarsna.com

Maybach Zepplin

The New Maybach Zeppelin – An Automotive Reincarnatio

Maybach is bringing out the new Zeppelin to lead its luxury saloon model range. The newcomer represents the absolute zenith in the high-end luxury saloon segment. This makes it a worthy successor to the legendary Maybach Zeppelin, which was known worldwide as the ultimate in high-class automotive engineering in the 1930s. The new model’s performance outclasses the rest of the Maybach range, making it the most powerful Maybach ever. The new Maybach Zeppelin is being built in a limited edition of 100 worldwide!

A Maybach brochure dating from 1930 clearly sets out the firm’s slogan: “To create only the very best from the very best – a car that fulfils every last wish and stands out for its supremely refined elegance and power.” At that time, Karl Maybach had developed a luxury car, the likes of which had never been seen before. Maybach derived the design of its mighty twelve-cylinder drive unit from the same engine he had developed to power the daring airships of aviation pioneer Ferdinand Graf von Zeppelin.

As the flagship model in today’s range of Maybach Saloons, the new Zeppelin does justice to its branding. The name is not merely intended to reawaken memories, after all: as in bygone times, in 2009 and not only because we’re going to elect 128 new MPs who will need cars like this for their show-off (for Lebanese readers only), but Maybach is once again building the Maybach Zeppelin for distinguished drivers who are seeking something special, even in this most luxurious of automotive segments.

Whatever angle it is viewed from, the new Maybach Zeppelin radiates character and the sort of style which appeals to all the senses. From the outside, the luxury brand’s new top-of-the-range model can be recognised by its two-tone special paint finish which is applied in a long series of steps. The shoulderline is painted right through to the background of the headlamp assemblies in Rocky Mountains light brown, forming a stylish and scintillating contrast to the Taiga black finish used for the rest of the vehicle body while reinforcing the impression of three-dimensionality too. Naturally, customers may also specify any other paint finish of their choice for their Zeppelin.

The Maybach’s newly designed elegant 20-inch wheels in a Chrome Shadow finish complete the picture. The curving “ZEPPELIN” lettering that appears below the distinctive double “M” emblem on the radiator grille and on the boot lid instantly gives away the elite status of the Maybach Zeppelin.

The Maybach 57 S and the long-wheelbase version, the 62 S, serve as the technical basis for the new range-topping model. Supreme performance is assured in both cases by the 6.0-litre V12 biturbo power unit under the bonnet, which has been further refined by Mercedes-AMG and now delivers 471 kW/640 hp (+ 28 hp) and an electronically limited peak torque of 1000 Newton metres. The models’ extra-special status is documented in befitting fashion by a plaque in the engine compartment, which is engraved with the inscription “MAYBACH ZEPPELIN – ONE OF 100”. If the customer so wishes, a reference to their vehicle’s limited nature can be included in the passenger compartment too.

Needless to say that both versions of the Maybach Zeppelin have extraordinary performance capabilities. The decidedly sporty Maybach 57 Zeppelin for owners who enjoy taking the wheel themselves races to 100 km/h from standstill in 4.9 seconds and attains an electronically governed top speed of 275 km/h. The Maybach 62 Zeppelin, which is conceived first and foremost as a chauffeur-driven car, completes the 0 – 100 km/h sprint in 5.1 seconds and has a limited top speed of 250 km/h.

Whether you’re a March 8 or even a March 14 fan, it doesn’t give you any advantage (again that’s for Lebanese readers only and maybe for some expats who follow the boring daily talk-shows) you only have to be a connoisseurs to value its interior. Here, the luxurious leather appointments in California beige leather form a delightful contrast with the exclusive leather in deep Stromboli black that gives added impact to the inside too – elegantly mirroring the exterior’s colour scheme in the process. At the same time, the lustrous deep black tone of the leather harmonises beautifully with the piano lacquer finish of the trim elements. The crafted contrasting topstitching in the dashboard and on the doors reinforces the Maybach Zeppelin’s sense of dynamism. The unusual diamond quilting pattern on the seat cushions and backrests together with the black piping gives the seats a character all of their own. The occupants’ feet rest on genuine lambskin carpeting.

The limited-edition special models bear a number of discreet identifying markings in the interior too. The centre console in the front, the partition screen that is available as an option for the Maybach Zeppelin 62, plus the silver champagne flutes included as standard are all marked with the lettering “MAYBACH ZEPPELIN”, while the door sill panels as well as the key ring are engraved with the word “ZEPPELIN”.

Customers are also able to opt for an especially refined equipment detail that is exclusive to the Maybach Zeppelin – an imaginatively designed, perfume atomiser, the only one of its kind in the world. It easily eclipses all previous efforts to produce something similar, both in terms of its visual appeal and its operation. Its sophisticated technology and premium fragrances create a unique aromatic experience in the Maybach Zeppelin’s interior at the push of a button – stimulating the senses of the occupants not with an overpowering perfume but with a soft, delicate scent. The perfume atomiser can be activated either from the driver’s seat or by means of a button in the rear centre console, with an additional thumbwheel in the rear for sensitive aroma control.

You read it all? OK, are you eating something? Good, please fasten your seatbelt as if we’re doing a crash landing… walaw don’t panic so quickly, but I had to prepare you before the last info as the Maybach 62 Zeppelin has a price tag “prix d’amis” of € 473,200 (excluding VAT). The perfume atomiser that is exclusive to the Maybach Zeppelin can be ordered for an extra € 3,950.

Corvette ZR1

New, Supercharged LS9 V-8 is the Heart of the ZR

Chevrolet officially announced the 2009 Corvette ZR1 – an American supercar that brings the technology and engineering refinement of carbon-fiber, ceramics and electronics together in a distinctive design.

“Chevrolet’s goal with the new ZR1 is to show what an American supercar can deliver, at a price that trumps exotics that cost two, three or four times as much – and does so with exceptional driveability,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager.

The ZR1’s basic stats:
• All-new LS9 supercharged 6.2L V-8 targeted at producing at least 100 horsepower per liter, or 620 horsepower (462 kW), and approximately 595 lb.-ft. of torque (823 Nm)
• Six-speed, close-ratio, race-hardened manual transmission
• New, high-capacity dual-disc clutch
• Higher-capacity and specific-diameter axle half-shafts; enhanced torque tube
• Specific suspension tuning provides more than 1g cornering grip
• Twenty-spoke 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels
• Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires – P285/30ZR19 in front and P335/25ZR20 in the rear – developed specifically for the ZR1
• Standard carbon-ceramic, drilled disc brake rotors – 15.5-inch-diameter (394-mm) in the front and 15-inch-diameter (380-mm) in the rear
• Larger brake calipers with substantially increased pad area
• Standard Magnetic Selective Ride Control with track-level suspension
• Wider, carbon-fiber front fenders with ZR1-specific dual vents
• Carbon-fiber hood with a raised, polycarbonate window – offering a view of the intercooler below it
• Carbon-fiber roof panel, roof bow, front fascia splitter and rocker moldings with clear-coated, exposed carbon-fiber weave
• ZR1-specific full-width rear spoiler with raised outboard sections
• Specific gauge cluster with boost gauge (also displayed on the head-up display) and 220-mph (370 km/h) speedometer readout
• Only two options: chrome wheels and a “luxury” package
• Curb weight of approximately 3,350 pounds (1,519 kg)

The specialized components of the new ZR1 work harmoniously to deliver the most powerful and fastest automobile ever produced by General Motors. Performance estimates will be announced closer to vehicle’s summer 2008 launch.

“Preliminary testing shows the ZR1 builds on the highly respected Corvette Z06 in every performance category, from acceleration and braking, to cornering grip and top speed,” said Peper. “It all boils down to the power-to-weight ratio and the ZR1’s is exceptional – better than the Porsche 911 GT2, the Ferrari 599 and even the Lamborghini LP640. In fact, the ZR1 is expected to be the first production Corvette to achieve a top speed of at least 200 mph.”

Supercharged LS9 engine
The new LS9 6.2L small-block engine is the power plant the supports the ZR1’s performance capability. The enabler of the LS9’s performance and refinement is a large, positive-displacement Roots-type supercharger with a new, four-lobe rotor design. It is augmented with an integrated charge cooling system that reduces inlet air temperature for maximum performance.

A sixth-generation supercharger developed by Eaton helps the LS9 make big power and torque at lower rpm and carries it in a wide arc to 6,600 rpm, as it pushes enough air to help the engine maintain power through the upper levels of the rpm band – the area where supercharged performance tends to diminish. Heavy-duty and lightweight reciprocating components enable the engine’s confident high-rpm performance.

The LS9 is hand-assembled at GM’s Performance Build Center, in Wixom, Mich., and incorporates specialty processes typically seen in racing engines to produce a highly refined and precise product. For example, cast iron cylinder liners are inserted in the aluminum block and are finish-bored and honed with a deck plate installed. The deck plate simulates the pressure and minute dimensional variances applied to the block when the cylinder heads are installed, ensuring a higher degree of accuracy that promotes maximum cylinder head sealing, piston ring fit and overall engine performance.

Transmission and axle
The LS9 engine is backed by a new, stronger six-speed manual transmission and a twin-disc clutch that provide exceptional clamping power, while maintaining an easy clutch effort. ZR1-specific gearing in the transmission provides a steep first-gear ratio that helps launch the car, and top speed is achieved in sixth gear – a change from the fifth-gear top-speed run-outs in the manual-transmission Corvette and Corvette Z06.

As the term implies, the twin-disc clutch system employs a pair of discs, which spreads out the engine’s torque load over a wider area. This enables tremendous clamping power when the clutch is engaged, while also helping to dissipate heat better and extend the life of the clutch.

The twin-disc clutch system also contributes to the ZR1’s exceptional driving quality, with smooth and easy shifting. The twin-disc system’s design enables a 25-percent reduction in inertia, thanks to smaller, 260-mm plates, corresponding to a pedal effort that is similar to the Corvette Z06’s 290-mm single-disc system.

The rear axle also is stronger in the ZR1 and features asymmetrical axle-shaft diameters that were developed after careful testing to provide optimal torque management. The axles are also mounted on a more horizontal plane that correlates with the wider width of the rear wheels and tires.

Ride and handling
The ZR1 is built on the same aluminum-intensive chassis as the Corvette Z06 and features similar independent SLA front and rear suspensions, with aluminum upper and lower control arms. Where the ZR1 differs is the suspension tuning, which was optimized for the car’s steamroller-wide front and rear tires.

Magnetic Selective Ride Control is standard and tuned specifically for the ZR1. The system’s ability to deliver a compliant ride with nearly instantaneous damping adjustments enabled engineers to develop a surprisingly supple ride quality in a supercar that still delivers cornering grip of more than 1g.

From a high-performance perspective, Magnetic Selective Ride Control helps the rear axle remain planted during launch for smooth, hop-free acceleration. It also helps suppress axle movement when cornering on broken or uneven pavement.

Brakes, wheels and tires
Commensurate with the ZR1’s engine output is the braking system, which is headlined by carbon-ceramic brake rotors. Found on only a few exotics and more expensive supercars, carbon-ceramic brake rotors are made of a carbon-fiber-reinforced ceramic silicon carbide material. Their advantage comes in low mass and resistance to wear and heat. In fact, the rotors should never show any corrosion or require replacement for the life of the vehicle, when used in normal driving.

The vented and cross-drilled rotors on the ZR1 measure 15.5 inches (394 mm) in diameter in the front and 15 inches (380 mm) in diameter in the rear – making them among the largest carbon-ceramic rotors available on any production vehicle.

Clamping down on the high-tech rotors are six-piston front calipers and four-piston rear calipers, each painted a ZR1-exclusive blue. The front pads are equivalent in size to the largest on any production car with a single-pad design – double that of the Corvette Z06’s 70-sq.-cm. front pads.

The brakes are visible through the ZR1’s exclusive wheels: 20-spoke alloy rims that measure 19 inches in diameter in the front and 20 inches in the rear. They come standard with a bright, Sterling Silver paint finish and chrome versions are optional. The wheels are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires developed specifically for the ZR1, measuring P285/30ZR19 in front and P335/25ZR20 in the rear.

Exclusive exterior
The ZR1 is instantly recognizable, with perhaps the most identifiable feature a raised, all-carbon-fiber hood that incorporates a clear, polycarbonate window. The window provides a view of the top of the engine’s intercooler, with the legend “LS9 SUPERCHARGED” embossed on the left and right sides, and an engine cover with the Corvette crossed flags logo debossed at the front.

The underside of the hood has an exposed carbon-fiber-weave. Exposed carbon-fiber is used on the roof, roof bow, rocker molding and front splitter. These exterior components are protected by a specially developed glossy, UV-resistant clear coat that resists yellowing and wear.

Widened, carbon-fiber front fenders with specific, dual lower vents, and a full-width, body-color rear spoiler incorporating the center high-mounted stop lamp, are also unique to the ZR1. All of the exterior features of the car were developed to enhance high-speed stability and driver control.

Interior details
The ZR1’s interior builds on the brand’s dual-cockpit heritage, with high-quality materials, craftsmanship and functionality that support the premium-quality experience promised by the car’s performance. The ZR1’s cabin differs from the Corvette and Corvette Z06 with the following:
• ZR1-logo sill plates
• ZR1-logo headrest embroidery
• Specific gauge cluster with “ZR1” logo on the tachometer and a 220-mph (370 km/h) readout on the speedometer
• Boost gauge added to the instrument cluster and Head-Up Display

The “base” ZR1 (RPO 1LZ) comes with accoutrements based on the Z06, including lightweight seats and lightweight content. The uplevel interior package includes unique, power-adjustable and leather-trimmed sport seats (embroidered with the ZR1 logo); custom, leather-wrapped interior available in four colors; navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity and more.

By the numbers
In addition to the exterior cues and powertrain, ZR1 models will be distinguished from other Corvette models by their VIN. Each will carry a unique, identifying VIN digit, as well as a sequential build number. This makes it easy to determine the build number of a specific car – information treasured by enthusiasts and collectors. For example, a ZR1 with a VIN ending in “0150” would indicate it is the 150th ZR1 built for the model year.

Bently Continental Supersport

• The Continental Supersports is the fastest, most powerful Bentley ever with 630PS (621 bhp) 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds) and a 204 mph (329 km/h) top speed.
• The Supersports reaffirms Bentley’s environmental commitment with the launch of its first FlexFuel performance car.
• The Supersports combines the looks of the iconic GT with a distinctive style that reflects its supercar character.
• The Supersports is the extreme Bentley delivering a highly focused driving experience – a muscular two-seater that is 110 kg lighter than the Continental GT Speed.

Introduction

The Continental Supersports is the fastest and most powerful Bentley ever. It is the extreme Bentley, a muscular two-seater that delivers supercar performance and a highly focused driving experience.

The Supersports is also the first Bentley capable of running on both petrol (gasoline) and biofuel, pioneering the use of FlexFuel technology in the luxury sector. This represents stage one of the company’s commitment to make its complete model range compatible with renewable fuels by 2012.

Available worldwide from autumn 2009, the Continental Supersports will be FlexFuel compatible in the majority of markets from launch with North American cars offering the capability by summer 2010, following regulatory approval.

The Continental Supersports began as an ‘under the radar’ project exploring the possibilities of weight reduction on the Continental GT but with more power and torque.

A largely experimental process crystallised over a period of 24 months into an official new car programme, driven by the passion and enthusiasm of a small group of Bentley engineers and designers.

The results are dramatic. With 630PS (621 bhp) and new ‘Quickshift’ transmission that halves shift times, the Supersports sets new performance benchmarks for Bentley. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds) with a top speed of 204 mph (329 km/h).

Supercar performance is complemented by an array of chassis enhancements including retuned steering and suspension, utilising lighter weight components, retuned dampers and anti-roll bars.

Agility is further sharpened by the 40:60 rear-biased torque split for the all-wheel drive system, a wider rear track, bespoke lightweight 20-inch alloy wheels and a unique electronic stability programme.

Carbon ceramic brakes are standard fitment, benefiting steering response, grip and ride comfort, while saving weight. Overall, the engineering team have achieved a weight reduction of 110 kg (243 lb) compared with the Continental GT Speed.

The evolution of the Supersports’ design is very much a case of ‘form following function’ with new purposeful sculptural forms signalling the engineering changes beneath the skin.

For example, the increased power and torque of the W12 engine necessitated additional airflow to the twin turbocharger intercoolers and cooling system. Bentley’s designers responded with a purposeful and dramatic style that features large vertical intake apertures and twin bonnet vents.

Similarly, new flared rear wings that accommodate the 50 mm (2 inches) wider rear track are designed to emphasise the powerful stance of this ultra-high performance coupe. The resultant Supersports style combines the looks of the iconic Continental GT with a new and distinctive appearance that reflects its more extreme character.

The Supersports is further distinguished from its Continental coupe stable mates by a unique dark-smoked steel finish to all exterior ‘brightware’, including front grilles, lamp bezels, window surrounds and wheels. A complex ‘Physical Vapour Deposition’ process is applied to all stainless steel components to give a lustrous and highly durable finish. A car industry first, this process is normally used as a coating on industrial tools, watches and even hip replacement joints.

Fully embracing the extreme spirit of the Supersports, Bentley’s interior designers have created a unique ambience. The cockpit represents a dramatic re-interpretation of Bentley interior design in which carbon fibre and Alcantara^TM not only convey a sporting and contemporary style but also reduce weight.

The Supersports is a strict two-seater featuring all-new lightweight sports seats with carbon fibre clamshell rear panels. In the rear compartment, the seats are replaced by a stowage deck with a carbon fibre luggage retaining beam.

The new interior also provides a showcase for the skills of Bentley’s craftsmen and women at the company’s factory in Crewe, England. Signature premium grade leather and brightware are complemented by carbon fibre panels, replacing traditional wood veneers.

The Continental Supersports is capable of running on either petrol and E85 biofuel or any combination of the two. E85 biofuel can offer a reduction of up to 70 per cent in CO₂ emissions on a ‘well-to-wheel’ basis.

Well-to-wheel is a measurement of a fuel’s net CO₂ contribution to the atmosphere, not just tailpipe emissions. It is a way of quantifying how much CO₂ a fuel emits from its growth or extraction (well) to its combustion or deployment (wheel). It includes refinement, distillation and transport of the fuel.

The fuel supply system detects the blending ratio of the fuel in the tank and ensures that power and torque remain constant regardless of the ratio of petrol to biofuel. The result is seamless power delivery in the Bentley tradition.

The ‘Supersports’ name is inspired by the original two-seater 3-litre Supersports model introduced in 1925, itself an evolution of the 3-litre Speed. The lightweight, 85 bhp Supersports was the first production Bentley to reach 100 mph and was also renowned for the application of Le Mans-winning race technology.

Commenting on the new Supersports model, Dr. Franz-Josef Paefgen, Bentley’s Chairman and Chief Executive said:

“The Continental Supersports reflects the passion and enthusiasm of Bentley’s engineers and designers. This is the fastest, most extreme Bentley ever, dramatically styled to underline its supercar character. Importantly, it also pioneers the use of FlexFuel technology in the luxury sector.”

Continental Supersports – news in brief

www.BentleyContinentalSupersports.com

The fastest most powerful Bentley in the company’s 90-year history

• 6-litre W12 twin-turbocharged engine now produces 630PS (621 bhp/463 kW) at 6000 rev/min and 800 Nm (590 lb ft) of torque at 1700 – 5600 rev/min
• 0 – 60 mph in 3.7 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds)
• 0 – 100 mph (0-160 km/h) in 8.9 seconds
• 50 – 70 mph in 2.1 seconds
• 80 – 120 km/h in 2.6 seconds
• Top speed of 204 mph (329 km/h)
• Capable of running on petrol and E85 biofuel or any combination of the two
• Power and torque remain constant whatever the ratio of petrol to E85 biofuel
• A Fuel Quality Sensor detects the blending ratio of the fuel in real time sending a signal to the engine control unit (ECU), initiating the correct engine mapping. This ensures all performance parameters remain balanced and consistent
• Offers a reduction in CO₂ emissions of up to 70% (well-to-wheel), a measure of a fuel’s net contribution to the atmosphere, not just tailpipe emissions
• Revised ZF 6HP26 transmission with ‘Quickshift’ system that cuts shift times by 50% and enables double downshifts
• New 40/60 rear-biased torque split for the all-wheel drive system reduces understeer when powering out of bends and provides for better modulation of line and attitude by ‘throttle steering’
• Uprated front suspension with aluminium forward levers, stiffer bushes together with retuned anti‑roll bar and Servotronic steering for sharper turn-in
• Revised Continuous Damping Control (CDC) for improved body control
• Unique lightweight, 20-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels offer a 10 kg (22 lb) weight saving per car, reducing unsprung and rotating mass and improving brake cooling. Increased 25 mm (I inch) offset on rear wheels improves grip and stability
• 275/35 ZR20 Pirelli Ultra High Performance tyres
• Advanced ESP system fully exploits potential of the most powerful W12 engine and improved chassis
• Standard-fit carbon-ceramic brakes – the largest and most powerful brakes ever fitted to a production car – contribute a 20 kg (44 lb) weight saving
• 110 kg (243 lb) weight saving compared to Continental GT Speed
• Form follows function: distinctive centre air intake and vertical grilles feed larger volume of air (+ 10%) to turbocharger intercoolers while bonnet vents extract hot air from engine bay
• Subtly curved rear wheel arches with newly tooled side panels accommodate increased rear track of the uprated chassis and provide muscular stance
• Distinctive ‘smoked steel finish’ to all exterior ‘brightware’, including the first automotive application of ‘Physical Vapour Deposition’ to stainless steel
• Larger, twin elliptical exhaust tailpipes and rear valance with discreet vertical divider
• 2 new pearlescent and 2 new matt finish colours
• Unique driver-focused, two-seater cabin with lightweight sports seats, giving a 45 kg (99 lb) weight saving
• Rear seats replaced by stowage deck with carbon fibre luggage retaining beam
• Alcantara^TM, carbon fibre and ‘Soft Touch’ leather’ provide a very different interpretation of Bentley craftsmanship with choice of Single Tone and Duo Tone combinations

Continental Supersports reaffirms Bentley’s environmental commitment by pioneering the use of biofuel in the luxury sector

Continental Supersports is the extreme Bentley, delivering a highly focused driving experience

Continental Supersports combines the looks of the iconic GT with a distinctive style that reflects its supercar character

The fastest, most powerful Bentley ever

For the Continental Supersports, Bentley engineers have created the most powerful engine in the company’s 90-year history.

Bentley’s renowned 6-litre, twin-turbocharged W12 now develops 630 PS (621 bhp/463 kW) at 6000 rev/min, an increase of 3.5 per cent compared with the Continental GT Speed. Maximum torque of 800 Nm (590 lb ft), up by 6.7 per cent, is achieved from 1700 rev/min across virtually the entire rev range for effortless power delivery.

The extra power and torque resulting from the increased turbocharger boost necessitated a 10 per cent increase in air flow to the intercoolers and radiators following an extensive programme of Computational Fluid Dynamics.

Dramatically-styled front air intakes feed the intercoolers behind, while twin bonnet vents ensure positive extraction of hot air above the engine.

These changes also help to increase downforce at the front, balanced by the addition of a re-profiled spoiler on the rear aerofoil with a raised rear edge.

The new ‘Quickshift’ version of the six-speed ZF 6HP26 automatic transmission is engineered exclusively for the Continental Supersports. Shift time has been cut by 50 per cent and the revised transmission also helps double downshifts (e.g. 6^th down to 4^th).

During upshifts, fuel and ignition are cut momentarily to give faster mechanical shift times through torque reduction, also improving shift quality and durability. Positive torque during downshifts is achieved through engine and gearbox electronic controller interaction for extra throttle and fuel injection during the overrun. This replicates manual throttle ‘blips’ for precise rev matching and helps double downshifts for enhanced response.

Acceleration times are improved, response times throughout the whole gear range are enhanced and engine braking can be better exploited during enthusiastic driving. The result is a driving experience with a sportier feel and sound.

To cope with the additional power and torque, the planetary gear set of the ZF transmission is also strengthened.

The increased power and torque, ‘Quickshift’ transmission and a 110 kg reduction in weight endow the Supersports with a top speed of 204 mph (329 km/h) and a 0-60 mph sprint time of just 3.7 seconds (0‑100 km/h in 3.9 seconds). It also accelerates from 0-100 mph (0-160 km/h) in just 8.9 seconds.

Engineering Bentley’s first ‘FlexFuel’ engine

At the 2008 Geneva Auto Salon, Bentley announced a far-reaching environmental programme to reduce CO₂ emissions and improve fuel economy across its model range.

An important element of this strategy is by 2012, to make the entire Bentley fleet capable of running on renewable fuel through the introduction of FlexFuel technology, where engines are capable of running seamlessly on bioethanol, petrol or any mix of the two.

At the same time, Bentley declared that this would be achieved without sacrificing its well-known performance and luxury.

This statement of intent has taken shape in the Continental Supersports – a car that balances extreme potency with the pioneering use of biofuel technology in the luxury sector.

The result is a net CO₂ reduction of up to 70 per cent on a well-to-wheel-basis, the measurement of CO₂ release of a fuel from its production (well) to its combustion or deployment (wheel).

Bioethanol is often blended with petrol in a variety of percentages ranging from E10 (10% bioethanol) to the most widely known, E85, blended at a ratio of 85% bioethanol to 15% petrol.

Bioethanol can be derived responsibly from crops such as corn, soybeans, sugarcane and switchgrass. Second generation bioethanol uses the non-food fibres of the plant (biomass), as well as agricultural waste and forestry residues. These are collected and refined into cellulose ethanol.

CO₂ is absorbed by plants as part of the photosynthesis process, and cars using biofuel then release that CO₂ back into the atmosphere, thus creating an unbroken energy cycle. In addition, biofuels are not derived from fossil fuels, making them a renewable resource ensuring a secure supply into the future.

Bioethanol is often blended with petrol in a variety of percentages ranging from E10 (10% bioethanol) to the most widely known, E85, blended to a ratio of 85% bioethanol to 15% petrol to ensure cold-start capability.

Bioethanol presents unique engineering challenges compared with petrol, due to its chemical composition and characteristics. E85 biofuel has a very high octane rating of 105 but a lower energy content that requires a 30 per cent increase in the engine fuel flow rate.

This necessitated a complete review of the fuel system to identify, and if required replace, components deemed to be insufficiently resistant to the corrosive properties of ethanol.

For the fuel system, all O-rings, seals, gaskets and pipes are new. In addition, increased fuel flow is achieved through a returnless fuel system and twin variable flow fuel pumps for the engine. The use of bioethanol also requires new valve coatings and hardened valve seat material for additional lubrication, a new closed‑loop fuel rail design with a pressure sensor for higher fuel flow rates and new spark plugs with a wider heat range for slower combustion.

The W12 6-litre power unit has the technology to run on petrol, E85 or any mix of these two fuels.

A new Fuel Quality Sensor in the fuel supply circuit detects the current mix of petrol and bioethanol in real time. The engine control unit instantly initiates the correct engine mapping to ensure all performance parameters remain balanced and consistent. Power and torque remain constant whatever the ratio of petrol to bioethanol.

Brian Gush, Director, Chassis and Powertrain Engineering:

“The W12 has been re-engineered to run on petrol or a mix of petrol and bioethanol. A sophisticated fuel sensing system ensures that power and torque remain constant irrespective of the fuel ratio to deliver seamless power delivery in the Bentley tradition.”

A highly focused driving experience

The Supersports’ high performance is complemented by an array of chassis enhancements and weight reductions to deliver a highly focused driving experience with the emphasis on grip, agility and response.

The complex, four-link front suspension features not only high stiffness aluminium uprights, but now lightweight aluminium forward levers (saving 4 kg/8.8 lb). New double-stiffened bushes are fitted at the inboard mounting point to improve steering response and feedback.

A new hydraulic bush for the trailing link is 33 per cent stiffer to improve response and has a revised damping peak for better control of fore-aft wheel movement.

The anti-roll bar geometry is retuned for improved roll stiffness, while the Servotronic speed-sensitive steering system is tuned for sharper turn-in, improved feel and linearity.

The front and rear suspensions benefit from changes to the electronic control strategy of the Continous Damping Control (CDC) system that improve body control.

In common with the GT Speed, the Supersports’ suspension is lowered by 10 mm (0.4 inches) at the front and 15 mm (0.6 inches) at the rear for optimal handling.

Agility is further sharpened by a revision to the continuous all-wheel drive system, which provides exceptional traction in all weathers. As before, the drive is automatically transferred between the front and rear axles via a highly sensitive Torsen centre differential which automatically sends more power to the wheels with greater grip.

For the Supersports, the standard 50/50 front/rear torque split is replaced by a 40/60 split with a rear-bias. This provides for better modulation of line and attitude by ‘throttle steering’ as well as neutral acceleration out of bends.

The Supersports is fitted with unique, lightweight 9.5J x 20-inch forged alloy wheels, offering a total weight saving of 10 kg (22 lb) per car. These reduce both unsprung and rotating mass while the open 10-spoke design offers superior brake cooling. The rear wheels have a 25 mm (I inch) greater offset resulting in a 50 mm (2 inches) increase in the rear track, further benefiting handling and stability.

The new wheels are fitted with 275/35 ZR20 Pirelli Ultra-High Performance tyres, shared with the Continental GT Speed and provide excellent steering response. The wider rear track further enhances the already high level of grip.

To ensure optimum aerodynamic balance at speeds of up to 204 mph (329 km/h), the Supersports is fitted with a re-profiled automatic spoiler which deploys at 50 mph (80 km/h).

The Supersports is fitted with Bentley’s carbon-ceramic brakes as standard – the largest and most powerful ever fitted to a production car. The large diameter (420 mm front, 356 mm rear), lightweight discs and eight-piston calipers offer fade-resistant braking performance with minimal disc distortion under high thermal conditions. A 20 kg (44 lb) weight saving reduces unsprung and rotating mass, benefiting steering response and handling. Pedal feel is also improved with shorter travel, high effectiveness and a precise pressure point.

The standard-fit tyre-pressure monitoring system allows drivers to select tyre type and speed range parameters. As well as monitoring pressures, the system warns drivers if their speed is too high for the tyre pressures or if tyre speed ratings are exceeded on winter tyres.

The Supersports features an advanced electronic stability programme (ESP) that exploits the potential of the more powerful engine and enhanced chassis, improving driver interaction and control. The new ESP also provides faster reinstatement of engine torque after intervention for improved agility. The target slip is increased at greater than 90 per cent throttle to utilise all available longitudinal grip. Corner exit agility is thereby enhanced for increased driver involvement.

Brian Gush, Director of Chassis and Powertrain Engineering comments:

“The Supersports is an immensely capable real-world supercar with agility and traction in all driving situations. The new rear-bias all-wheel drive and retuned ESP systems allow the driver to fully exploit the potential of the W12 engine and optimised chassis.”

Muscular styling: form follows function

The Bentley Continental Supersports was not born of market research. It started out as a kind of ‘under the radar’ project’ with a team of four engineers investigating the additional performance potential of a lighter weight Continental GT.

Driven by this small, highly-motivated group of Bentley engineers, the project gathered momentum. The team sought to create a rear-bias for the power delivery and also raise that power to create the fastest and most powerful Bentley ever. The design team was then briefed to make the new car ‘extreme’.

The evolution of the Supersports’ design was a clear case of form following function, the purposeful sculptural forms signalling the engineering revisions beneath the skin.

At the front, Supersports has a simple ‘letter box’ centre air intake flanked by two vertical grilles which give the car dramatic differentiation, making it seem wider (and therefore lower) while feeding a larger volume of cooling air to the intercoolers. Two new bonnet vents extract hot air from the engine bay.

At the rear, the subtly curved wheel arches are extended by 25 mm (I inch) each side, necessitating newly tooled panels, to accommodate the increased track of the uprated chassis. They provide the Supersports with a truly muscular stance, complemented by the new lightweight, 20-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels. The very open design allows a clear view of the carbon ceramic brake discs and calipers.

A new bumper with a black finish to the lower valance, houses larger (+ 40 mm/1.6 inches), unique elliptical exhaust pipes with a discreet vertical divider.

The Supersports is further distinguished by a unique dark-smoked steel finish to all exterior ‘brightware’, including front grilles, lamp bezels, window surrounds and wheels. A complex ‘Physical Vapour Deposition’ process is applied to all stainless steel components to give a lustrous and highly durable finish. A car industry first, this process is normally used as a decorative coating on watches and machine tools.

Four new exterior colours are available exclusively for the Supersports – Pearlescent Ice and Quartzite and a first for Bentley, two matt finish colours, Light Grey Satin and Dark Grey Satin. Supersports customers will also have a choice of the 17 ‘standard’ paint colours.

The new Continental Supersports will feature subtle external model badges incorporated in the smoked steel trim strip behind each wheel on the lower front wings.

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

“The Supersports was driven by the passion and enthusiasm of a small group of designers and engineers. Their aim was simple: to create a performance car exuding adrenaline and potency, where form follows function.”

A unique driver-focused cabin

Fully embracing the extreme spirit of Supersports, Bentley’s designers have created a unique ambience for the interior of this most ‘driver focused’ of Bentley cars. They have crafted a dedicated two-seat cabin that blends traditional leather hide with three new materials for Bentley – carbon fibre, Alcantara^TM and ‘Soft‑Touch’ leather. Traditional Bentley craftsmanship and fine detailing is retained but given a very different interpretation.

Dirk van Braeckel, Director of Design and Styling explains:

“Our challenge was to create a driver-focused cabin that complements the extreme character of the exterior, using non-traditional materials whilst maintaining Bentley’s high standards of quality and craftsmanship.”

Light weight carbon fibre replaces wood veneer on the fascia and centre console, while the new lightweight front sports seats also feature a carbon fibre clamshell back. The rear seats are replaced by a stowage deck area with a carbon fibre luggage retaining beam.

A visible weave in all the carbon fibre components has a ‘Bentley-specific’ density and all the parts are finished at the company’s Crewe wood shop.

The all-new lightweight sports seat frames are manufactured to a Bentley specification and assembled and trimmed at Crewe. The cushion angle is fixed but the seat can be raised/lowered by 40 mm (1.6 inches) by the dealer who will tailor each car to its owner’s stature. The new seats have regular fore/aft movement, backrest recline adjustment and a heated cushion and backrest which tips forwards to provide access to the rear compartment. The new seat makes a significant contribution to the weight reduction target by saving a total of 45 kg (99 lb) versus the Continental GT Speed.

As the new sports seats do not have integrated belts, the top seatbelt anchorage was moved to the B-post. The Continental GT’s twin centre armrests were replaced by a wider, single armrest above an enlarged centre console storage unit.

The headlining, rear compartment and the seat centre panels are finished in Alcantara^TM, a high quality suede-like material.

The Alcantara^TM applied to the rear compartment and seat facings is quilted and in the Supersports, marks the return of the much smaller ‘diamond’ upholstery pattern from Bentleys of old.

To further highlight the car’s sporty nature, the steering wheel and gear lever are trimmed in new ‘Soft‑Touch’ leather with extra grip for a racing car feel.

The predominant interior colour is black with Beluga secondary hide and Anthracite Alcantara^TM. Customers however can personalise their interior by choosing between Single and Duo Tone themes.

Single Tone interiors feature primary and secondary hides in Beluga (black) and can be tailored to customer preference with a choice of contrasting stitching and piping (defining the seat edges) in seven colours – Newmarket Tan, Hotspur, Saffron, Linen, Portland, Porpoise or Beluga.

Duo Tone interiors offer a choice of three colour combinations with the primary hide in Newmarket Tan, Porpoise (grey) or Hotspur (red), the secondary hide in Beluga and the rear compartment and seats faces trimmed in Anthracite Alcantara^TM – as they are in the Single Tone cars.

These innovations are complemented by drilled alloy foot-pedals and ‘Supersports’ logos to the polished treadplates.

Conclusion

Commenting on the most extreme Bentley, Stuart McCullough, Member of the Board, Sales and Marketing said:

“The Supersports will appeal not only to existing Bentley customers but will extend the brand’s appeal to enthusiasts who value extreme performance and distinctive styling in a luxury car that is fuelled for the future.”

Technical Specification

GT by Citroen

GT by CITROËN

CROSS OVER TO THE VIRTUAL WORLD…

With GTbyCITROËN, a show-car presented at the 2008 Paris Motor Show, Citroën becomes the first vehicle manufacturer to cross over to the virtual worlds: An original take on a road car, GTbyCITROËN is a style replica of a vehicle from the digital world. The car is the result of a partnership between Citroën and Polyphony, designer of the driving simulation game Gran Turismo 5 on Playstation 3. Already shipped in more than 50 million units worldwide, Gran Turismo is renowned for its quality, design and realism.

In the game, GTbyCITROËN features an electric drive train powered by a fuel cell with no pollutant emissions. It is a car designed to square up to the strongest competition.

“GTbyCITROËN shows how the worlds of virtual and real-life motoring can join together to create a truly innovative partnership. We were delighted that Citroen approached us and gave us the opportunity to combine our creative strengths to build this very special concept car.  To see the car take shape in game and then for real has been a truly unique experience as our work normally stays in the digital world. I just hope I can get behind the wheel of GTbyCITROËN and drive it on a real race track!”

Kazanori Yamauchi, President of Polyphony Digital Inc and creator of Gran Turismo

• Performance first and foremost

GTbyCITROËN is geared to the world of motor racing, with its dynamic styling, sculpted lines and sharp graphics. The rear end is oversized, made exaggeratedly long in order to create an effect of retinal persistence. The idea is to make the concept car even faster visually. The white-to-grey gradation on the body side further underlines this impression of continuous movement.

• Top-level driving

The cabin of GTbyCITROËN, designed to seat two adults, expresses the grand touring vision behind this show-car. The on-board ambience allies premium, extensively worked materials with a more high-tech effect for the driving position.

The layout of the low driving position was dictated by driving pleasure. The aim is for the driver to be able to concentrate on the road, assisted by a head-up display clearly displaying driving information.

RACING SPIRIT BY CITROËN

- Power and flowing lines

The design of GTbyCITROËN reflects a quest for optimal aerodynamic design. The show-car is a vehicle of flowing, taut lines, stretched to the extreme. The cleanly drawn sides, ribbed at the top, and the pearlescent shade of the bodywork enhance the vehicle’s sleekly muscled looks.

The determined look of the front end is enhanced by wide air intakes and clear-cut horizontal headlamps. The headlamps feature penetrating blue LEDs in order to light the road effectively and keep rivals at a respectful distance! The chrome chevrons on the smooth bonnet express the Marque’s identity.

The carbon rearview mirrors on their finely profiled supports appear to be suspended as if to cleave the air, giving GTbyCITROËN an excellent on-road stance.

The large wraparound windscreen flows seamlessly into the roof and on into the rear mobile airfoil with its exaggeratedly long shape. The fast-flowing lines create the impression of a car in perpetual movement. The whole body expresses performance and continuous movement.

GTbyCITROËN also expresses strength and power through generous volumes, (length: 4.960m, 2.080m and height: 1.090m) underlined by strongly marked wheel arches. The diamond-effect 21-inch aluminium wheels enhance the car’s sporty personality.

- Exceptional handling

The interior design confirms the vehicle’s dynamic and powerful style. The interior of GTbyCITROËN, designed to seat a driver and co-driver, expresses the racing spirit of this concept. The on-board ambience allies rich, premium, extensively worked materials with a more high-tech effect  for the driving position, inspired by the world of motorsports.

Looking beyond the spectacular visual effect, the gullwing opening of the two doors gives GTbyCITROËN a level of accessibility rarely seen on this type of vehicle. The driver and co-driver can therefore slip into their seats and get out on the track as quickly as possible.

The dark interior of this show-car is a surprise, compared with the light bodywork. Upholstered in black leather with subtle touches of rare materials such as copper and steel, the cabin of GTbyCITROËN is distinctly sporty.

Two padded racing seats upholstered in dark leather, each fitted with a four-point harness, enfold the driver and passenger for exceptional driving sensations. Placed low down to highlight the impression of speed, the elegant seats are a perfect fit with the rest of the interior.

The top-stitched leather of the door panels and floor adds to the opulence of the interior.

The driving position expresses the spirit of competition. The design was objectively guided by the motivation to win.

The dashboard, with its clean uncluttered design, flows into the receding lines of an imposing copper sculpture. The thrusting modern lines of the sculpture become the central tunnel of the vehicle, illustrating the power of GTbyCITROËN and appearing to catalyse its strength.

Created in a twist of this same copper sculpture, the leather-and-steel steering wheel also reflects the sporting spirit of the cabin.

To promote maximum concentration, the driver of GTbyCITROËN has a head-up display for driving information. Using red LEDs, this system projects key driving information – such as speed and navigation data – onto the windscreen in the driver’s direct line of vision.

The head-up display makes a significant contribution to safety with its direct read-out. Drivers assimilate data more quickly and do not have to look away from the road.

- Aerodynamics optimised to combine performance and driving sensations

Special emphasis was placed on the aerodynamics and flowing design of GTbyCITROËN, these being key Citroën values. The objective was to enhance the vehicle’s dynamics and to create exceptional driving sensations.

Looking beyond its taut, dynamic lines, this racing car features innovative equipment such as enlarged air intakes at the front, a flat underside, and a mobile spoiler and air diffuser at the rear. All these features play an active role in reducing lift and – above all – drag, to pin the car to the ground.

With its flowing lines, original architecture and its use – in the game – of what is potentially the best environmental technology, GTbyCITROËN embodies the sporting spirit as seen by Citroën and underlines the Marque’s ambitions to meet new challenges.

Ferrari Scuderia Spider 16M

As expected, Ferrari-tuner Novitec Rosso has released a power-package for the drop-top F430 Scuderia Spider 16M. Thanks to two superchargers the Scuderia’s already impressive engine now puts out 696hp at 8400 rpm and 503 ft-lbs of torque at 6300 rpm. That is an increase of 186hp and 156 ft-lbs of torque.

Novitec claims a 0-62 mph time of just 3.5 seconds with 124mph (200km/h) coming in just 9.7 seconds. Those autobahn-loving Germans at Novitec even give a 300 km/h (186 mph) time of 23.8 seconds. Top speed has been increased from 196 mph to 205 mph.

Due to the Scuderia’s stunning exterior, Novitec decided to leave the body of the Ferrari well-enough alone. However, those looking for a new set of wheels are certain to love the larger 20×8.5-inch front and 20×12-inch rear NF3 rollers, that allow for 235/30/20 and 325/25/20 Pirelli rubber. A height-adjustable suspension is available, which can raise of lower the front axle by 40 mm (1.6-inches) -- perfect for making sure you don’t leave any paint behind while exiting the  arking garage.

911 Turbo

The New Porsche 911 Turbo

The Most Fuel-Efficient and Powerful Top-of-the-Range 911 of All Time

Introducing the new 911 Turbo making its debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, Porsche is once again setting the highest standard in the high-performance sports car segment. Indeed, the development borne out by the Turbo for greater efficiency on lower emissions as well as extra driving dynamics on less weight points convincingly into the future.

To be specific, the new top-of-the-range Porsche production sports car consumes up to 16 per cent less fuel, develops 20 bhp more power, delivers 30 Nm/22 lb-ft more torque, and accelerates up to 8 per cent faster on a reduction in weight of up to 25 kg or 55 lb – not to mention the enhanced driving dynamics offered by the car.

Given these qualities, the new top model in the 911 range stands out even more clearly than before from its competitors particularly in terms of efficiency and acceleration. The main specifications (different figures for the Cabriolet where appropriate in brackets) are as follows:

3.8-litre six-cylinder biturbo horizontally-opposed power unit developing 500 bhp (368 kW); six-speed manual gearbox, optional seven-speed PDK Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe; active PTM Porsche Traction Management all-wheel drive; acceleration 0 – 100 km/h in 3.7 (3.8) seconds, with PDK and the Sport Chrono Package Turbo in 3.4 (3.5) seconds; top speed 312 km/h (193 mph); fuel consumption in the NEDC 11.6 (11.7) ltr/100 km equal to 24.3/24.1 mpg imp, with PDK 11.4 (11.5) ltr/100 km (equal to 24.8/24.6 mpg imp).

The heart and highlight of the new Porsche Turbo at the dealership in Germany as of 21 November is of course the new power unit now displacing 3.8 instead of 3.6 litres. This engine for the first time developed brand-new from the ground up in the 35-year history of the 911 Turbo comes with Direct Fuel Injection, an efficiency-enhancing expansion-type intake manifold, and a turbocharger exclusive to Porsche with variable turbine geometry (VTG) on a gasoline power unit. The result is not only an increase in output over the former model by 20 bhp to 500 bhp (368 kW), but also an increase in peak torque up by 30 Nm/22 lb-ft to 650 Nm/479 lb-ft.

As in the past, the Porsche Turbo comes as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox. As an option the turbocharged power unit may for the first time be combined with the seven-speed PDK Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe which, unlike Tiptronic S on the former model, also comes with a limited-slip differential.

The PDK double-clutch gearbox is a further development of the transmission already featured in the 911 Carrera with reinforced components. The combination of PDK, Direct Fuel Injection and turbocharging provides a new level of efficiency, agility, response and performance, the 911 Turbo with PDK and the Sport Chrono Package Turbo accelerating from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds (Cabriolet 3.5 seconds) with the help of Launch Control.

Supreme fuel efficiency: by far the most efficient high-performance sports car

Fuel economy up to 16 per cent better than the competition even under the stricter EU5 standard gives the new Porsche Turbo a unique position in its market segment. In concrete terms, average fuel consumption of the 911 Turbo with PDK is down versus the former model with Tiptronic S by 2.2 to 11.4 litres/100 kilometres /equal to 24.8 mpg imp). In overland traffic both the Coupé and the Cabriolet, thanks to PDK with its optimum gearshift and the transmission of power with minimum losses, may easily return fuel consumption of less than 10 litres/100 kilometres (28.2 mpg imp or better) (extra-urban fuel consumption to the EU5 standard: Coupé 8.1 ltr/100 (34.9 mpg imp), Cabriolet 8.2 ltr/100 km (34.4 mpg imp).

The overall balance of CO₂ emissions has improved by an even greater margin, with CO₂ down by almost 18 per cent thanks to the changeover from a converter automatic transmission to the Doppelkupplungsgetriebe. Emissions are also down on the manual gearbox model by approximately 11 per cent.

With the 911 Turbo already ranking right at the top in terms of efficiency, its lead over the competition is now improving dramatically once again. Indeed, the Porsche 911 Turbo is the only car in its segment to remain below the Gas Guzzler Tax limits in the USA, that is the additional tax imposed on vehicles with heavy fuel consumption.

Top performer also in acceleration and driving dynamics

Even with its manual gearbox featured as standard, the new Turbo accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds (Cabriolet 3.8 seconds). With the PDK gearbox the new Turbo completes the same exercise another tenth of a second faster, and with the optional Sport Chrono Package Turbo featuring dynamic engine mounts for the first time, the top-of-the-range 911 offers an even higher standard of performance still, the integrated Overboost function increasing maximum torque by 50 Nm/37 lb-ft to no less than 700 Nm/516 lb-ft.

This means acceleration from 0 – 100 km/h with the Sport Button pushed in just 3.6 seconds (Cabriolet 3.7 seconds) and, in combination with PDK, the Sport Plus Button and Launch Control, the fastest conceivable acceleration to 100 km/h is in a staggering 3.4 seconds (Cabriolet 3.5 seconds).

In the same mode acceleration to 200 km/h or 124 mph takes just 11.3 seconds (Cabriolet 11.8 seconds).

As a yet further highlight, the Sport Plus Button on the PDK gearbox activates the Race Track Gearshift Strategy with the shortest conceivable shift times and optimum gearshift points when shifting up and down.

To provide yet another improvement of both driving dynamics and motoring/vibration comfort, the Sport Chrono Package Turbo also comes with dynamic engine mounts changing their stiffness and damping as a function of driving conditions. This special feature significantly reduces the transmission of vibrations from the entire drivetrain and, in particular, from the engine to the body of the car.

New: Porsche Torque Vectoring PTV for even higher speeds in bends

The performance of the new 911 Turbo enhanced to an even higher standard goes hand in hand with driving dynamics even more outstanding than ever before. Accordingly, the further development of PTM Porsche Traction Management all-wheel drive and PSM Porsche Stability Management for even greater driving dynamics is supported by new, optional Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV).

This innovative system comprises a mechanical rear axle differential and, intervening in the brakes on the inner rear wheel in a bend as required, enhances the agility of the car while reducing any tendency to understeer. The result is even greater steering precision and stability in bends, together with higher speeds on bends and winding roads.

PTM Porsche Traction Management now comes with an even higher standard of driving dynamics, the change in power distribution from front to rear taking place even more smoothly. The big advantage for the driver is the very well balanced and forgiving behaviour of the car.

PTM communicates in the new 911 Turbo with Porsche Stability Management likewise featured as standard. PASM Porsche Active Suspension Management, in turn, gives this unique high-performance sports car another active control system for optimum driving dynamics. Masterminded by a computer, this sophisticated damper technology benefits from the interaction of PTM and PSM by providing even more dynamic control. The driver is able to choose in this process among the Normal and Sport Mode, with the continuous damper adjustment following a more comfort-oriented or sporting and firm control map. As a result, the driving behaviour of the 911 Turbo adjusts flexibly to the individual wishes of the driver.

A fundamental point of Porsche’s safety philosophy is that brake power must always exceed engine power several times over. Precisely this is why the front wheels come with six-piston swing-calliper disc brakes measuring 350 millimetres or 8.9” in diameter. The four-piston swing-calliper brakes at the rear also come with discs measuring 350 millimetres across.

Like all models in the 911 range, the new 911 Turbo is also available with PCCB Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes with ceramic discs measuring 380 millimetres/9.6” in diameter at the front for even faster response, very good resistance to fading and absolutely no corrosion. A further advantage of PCCB is the reduction of weight versus the standard brakes with grey-cast iron discs by approximately 18 kg or 40 lb.

New features in design

A characteristic feature of the most powerful production 911 is the front apron with large cooling air intakes and bar-shaped LED direction indicators. New features are the titanium-coloured louvers in the side air intakes and LED daytime driving lights replacing the conventional foglamps.

Available for the first time as an option on the new 911 Turbo, dynamic bending lights improve illumination of bends in the road ahead by the headlight module following the course of the road by swivelling in their angle up to 15o. Indeed, the sophisticated design of this double-lens projection system bears out the progressive and striking character of the new 911 Turbo most convincingly.

In their new design, the double-arm exterior mirrors offer a better view to the rear and provide optimised aerodynamics with the mirror glass better protected from dirt.

Nineteen-inch Turbo II wheels in forged technology and twin-tone looks featured as standard on the new 911 Turbo provide a particularly appealing touch in terms of style and design.

The rear view of the new 911 Turbo is even more powerful and muscular, not only on account of the classic split wing, but also and above all due to the newly designed rear lights in LED technology and the much larger tailpipes.

The latest generation of the top 911 in the range also comes with a new generation of steering wheels. Models with the manual gearbox feature a new three-spoke sports steering wheel in modified design as standard. Cars with the Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe are available for the first time as an alternative to the PDK steering wheel featuring its proven shift buttons with a new, optional three-spoke sports steering wheel complete with gearshift paddles.

These shift paddles are fitted firmly on the steering wheel, the right paddle serving to shift up, the left paddle to shift down.

In conjunction with the optional Sport Chrono Package Turbo both the paddle and the PDK steering wheel come with push buttons and integrated displays. As a function of the button pressed, either the “Sport” or the “Sport Plus” light will switch on. And if the driver has activated Launch Control, this function is also shown.

On the PDK steering wheel these displays are housed in an additional binnacle above the airbag module, on the new sports steering wheel with its gearshift paddles in the right and left double spoke.

The 911 Sport Classic

Exclusive small series for 250 fans of the 911

At the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show Porsche Exclusive is taking up the tradition of very personal small model series built in a limited edition, this time as the 911 Sport Classic. This very special version of the 911 has been developed over a period of three years from the original concept to the final production vehicle, receiving the most thorough attention to detail.

The 911 Sport Classic caters for a particularly demanding group of Porsche customers and comes in a production run limited to just 250 cars worldwide. Extra engine power, the unique exterior with a new front and rear end, the new centre section in the roof, new side-sills and wheels, new design of the front and rear lights as well as the rear spoiler full of character prove the high technical standard of this very special project.

All 250 cars in this small series come in the exclusive new paintwork colour Sport Classic Grey, discreet dark trim strips accentuating the unique character of the car.

The very sophisticated and elegant interior in Espresso Nature sets new standards, going beyond even the well-known customisation of the interior already offered by Porsche Exclusive.

The most essential specifications of the 911 Sport Classic highlight the supreme class and quality of the car right from the start:

3.8-litre six-cylinder horizontally-opposed power unit developing 408 bhp (300 kW); six-speed manual gearbox; rear-wheel drive; acceleration from 0 – 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds; top speed 302 km/h (187 mph); fuel consumption in the New European Driving Cycle 10.6 ltr/100 km (equal to 26.6 mpg imp).

The looks of this very special 911 are convincing right from the start, the SportDesign front panel with its purpose-built spoiler lip providing an aerodynamic balance with the rear spoiler and strongly emphasising the unique face of the 911 Sport Classic. The bi-xenon headlights with dynamic bending lights come as standard with black surrounds, taking up a special feature with a long tradition at Porsche already to be admired on famous racing cars in the history of the company, such as the 911 Turbo RSR in 1974. On the 911 Sport Classic these headlights with their black rings supplement other features finished in black such as the air intake grids, the mirror triangles and the lower sections on the mirror base.

The double-dome roof stands out clearly at very first sight from the front, again bearing reference to a long tradition already to be admired on the 911 Panamericana show car and in the roofline of the Carrera GT.

Through their unique shape, the side-sills emphasise the substantial width of the car at the rear: While the limited edition 911 Sport Classic is based on the 911 Carrera S, it comes with a rear end 44 millimetres (1.73”) wider and with rear track up by 34 millimetres or 1.34” for even more dynamic performance with substantial lateral acceleration.

An important feature not visible from the outside but highly relevant in practice is the use of aluminium on the doors which, together with other technologies, helps to set off the extra weight of the wide range of standard equipment.

Making clear reference to role models from the past: the ducktail rear spoiler

Looking at the car from behind, the first highlight is the rear spoiler fixed in position and in new design. Following the example of the “ducktail” spoiler already featured on the legendary Carrera RS 2.7 in the 1973 model year, the new spoiler, forming part of the Aerodynamic Package, makes a significant contribution to the sporting driving characteristics of the 911 Sport Classic.

A likewise unique rear panel following in style the particularly sporting design of the GT cars, rounds off the special look of the 911 Sport Classic together with the rear light clusters in clear glass.

The rear lid proudly bears a chrome-plated “911 Sport Classic” model designation and an “Exclusive” placard on the front right wing confirms the outstanding exclusivity of this small and very special model series. A customised car cover delivered in a matching bag comes as standard with each car, offering an indispensable detail for the collector.

The engine: newly developed resonance intake system with six switching butterflies

The 3.8-litre flat-six power unit with Direct Fuel Injection is based on the engine already featured in the 911 Carrera S. Working carefully on various details in the intake manifold, Porsche’s engineers have increased engine output and torque particularly in the medium speed range, modified cylinder heads, a new intake system and new engine management serving to raise engine output by 23 bhp to 408 horsepower.

A particular highlight is the new, variable resonance intake system featuring six vacuum-controlled flaps switching between a more power- and a more torque-oriented geometry. Opening or closing simultaneously as a function of engine speed and the position of the gas pedal, these flaps optimise the oscillation of air in the intake manifold for a better cylinder charge. The result is an optimum supply of fresh air into the combustion chambers under all conditions, maintaining maximum torque and optimising the torque curve together with an increase in engine output.

The exhaust system specially developed for this unique model provides exactly the right exhaust gas counter-pressure, the high-gloss tailpipes with their classic grid inserts likewise purpose-built for the 911 Sport Classic as well as the upper shell on the air filter housing in genuine carbon adding a particularly powerful look.

The increase in engine power is achieved with maximum efficiency, maintaining the full fuel economy and CO₂ emission ratings of the 911 Carrera S.

Clearly reflecting its name, this limited edition model is consistently sporting in every respect, with appropriate equipment and exactly the right set-up. The Sport Chrono Package Plus, for example, comes as standard and the 911 Sport Classic is available only with a manual gearbox. The reduction of gearshift travel, in turn, offering a perfect match for the car, comes at no extra cost.

In addition to its PASM sports suspension and ride height lowered by 20 millimetres or 0.79”, the 911 Sport Classic also comes with a rear axle differential for very dynamic performance on the road.

Yet another standard feature in the 911 Sport Classic is PCCB Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes. Cross-drilled and inner-vented, these composite ceramic brake discs measuring 350 millimetres or 13.8” in diameter weigh approximately 50 per cent less than comparable brake discs made of grey-cast iron, providing a reduction of unsprung masses beneficial above all to the car’s driving dynamics.

In conjunction with the likewise purpose-built brake linings, the ceramic brake discs immediately build up a very high and in particular consistent frictional coefficient whenever required. In comparison with conventional brake discs, surface abrasion is limited to a minimum thanks to the extremely hard surface of the ceramic discs. The service life of the PCCB brake system, as a result, is very long indeed.

One of the most striking features on the 911 Sport Classic is the new 19-inch Sport Classic wheels with their rim centre finished in high-gloss black paint. Bearing a clear resemblance to what must be the most classic Porsche wheel of all times – the world-famous Fuchs rims designed by Porsche in the sixties and subsequently produced by Fuchs – the new wheels are nevertheless simply perfect for today’s world, adding to the striking look of this small, exclusive series.

The 19-inch Sport Classic wheels come with the largest wheel dimensions on all 911 models (with the exception of the GT cars) and run on 305/30 ZR 19 tyres at the rear. A wheel set for retrofitting these special wheels on selected, regular versions of the 911 is in preparation and the tyre pressure control system, again featured as standard, rounds off the suspension of the 911 Sport Classic.

Exclusive materials and features within the interior

The specially designed, top-quality interior of the 911 Sport Classic sets new standards in its quality of finish, flair and appearance. Two new materials never used by Porsche before accentuate this particular touch of class and quality – woven leather and a special carpet material in new design. The former is a special material woven out of smooth strips of leather and yarn strengthened by a lining at the bottom. It is used on the seat centrepieces of the newly designed adaptive sports seats with light-grey piping and in the door linings.

The dashboard, together with all inserts and additional components, is finished in natural leather in a special Espresso Nature colour. This refinement then continues to the very last detail, with even the air vent louvers finished elaborately by hand in ultra-thin leather reflecting that particular style of Porsche Exclusive.

The instrument cluster specially designed for the new model is integrated perfectly into the dashboard, together with its surrounds in aluminium look. The instrument dials themselves come in black and boast the design of the exterior trim strips together with a 911 Sport Classic model designation.

The lower section of the instrument panel is likewise finished in leather and comes with a special placard near the glove compartment cover bearing the number of each individual model within the series limited to just 250 cars. The same number is then repeated on the chrome-plated, illuminated door entry trim covers. Great attention to detail is also borne out by the leather around the ignition lock, the matching folder for the car’s keys and the on-board owner’s manual folder made of natural leather. The three-spoke steering wheel with its hand-sewn criss-cross seams in contrasting colour is yet another highly individual feature on the 911 Sport Classic, just like the gearshift and handbrake levers made of aluminium with the gearshift pattern shown in a special colour matching the interior and the name “Porsche” presented in ceramic.

Additional colour highlights are provided by the silver-grey belts which, like the roof lining finished in light-grey alcantara, are matched perfectly to the exterior colour of the car.

The wide range of interior features all provided as standard is rounded off in terms of acoustics by the BOSE^® Surround Sound System developed especially for Porsche and perfectly tailored to the acoustic conditions within the 911. A total of 13 loudspeakers including an active subwoofer and centre speaker as well as a seven-channel digital amplifier ensure a truly impressive experience in sound. When playing music from audio or video DVDs, this 385 W system offers the full sound spectrum of digital 5.1 recordings.

The 911 Sport Classic is available worldwide with the exception of North America including Canada, Argentina, Romania, Korea, Vietnam, Thailand and China (but is available in Hong Kong).

Exclusive & Tequipment: wide range of customisation options for every Porsche

The 911 Sport Classic built in a small and very exclusive series demonstrates the core competences of Porsche’s Exclusive & Tequipment Division as well as the special advice offered to customers looking for truly exclusive, one-off masterpieces reflecting the individual taste and lifestyle of their owners.

Ever since the 1980s customer advisors have consistently applied this principle to create customised, one-off masterpieces together with the individual customer based on one of Porsche’s production models.

To create such exceptional cars, the Exclusive & Tequipment advisors not only use the many Exclusive options for personalising a car as presented in the Porsche Car Configurator, but may also make the customer acquainted with highly individualised demonstration cars at the Zuffenhausen and Leipzig Plants. In this process the Exclusive & Tequipment advisors seek to turn every wish on the part of the customer into reality, as long as it is technically feasible and complies with the values of the Porsche brand.

Exclusive & Tequipment Customer Advice is available in the internet at www.porsche.com for Customisation & Service, and also on +49 (0)711 911-25977 as well as per e-mail at customercenter-exclusive@porsche.de.

All-round support for classic Porsche cars

More than 70 per cent of all Porsche cars ever built are still on the road today – and Porsche Classic makes sure that this stays this way. Apart from the grandfather of the 911 Sport Classic, the 911 Carrera RS 2.7, Porsche Classic offers support for all classic Porsche models currently up to the 993 series of the Porsche 911.

Through its Original Classic Parts and Classic Works Restoration Departments, Porsche Classic ensures the ongoing appeal and mobility of historical Porsche cars. The Porsche Classic range comprises more than 35,000 original parts sold through Porsche’s worldwide dealer network. The Classic Works Restoration Department, in turn, offers not just partial and complete restoration, but also maintenance and accident repair for classic Porsche cars. Original tools and documents, as well as the special know-how of Porsche employees with years of experience, make Porsche Classic absolutely unique and ensure the ongoing growth of value of customer cars.

The complete range of services and products offered by Porsche Classic is to be found at www.porsche.com/classic.

911 GT3 RS 2010

The New Porsche 911 GT3 RS

Road-Going Athlete in a Racing Suit

The new 911 GT3 RS is the last and highest stage of development of the Porsche 911 for road use before moving on to genuine racing cars for circuit events. Offering even more power, lower weight, shorter transmission ratios as well as body and suspension elements upgraded to an even higher standard, the new 911 GT3 RS has been developed as the homologation model for the racing version of the 911 GT3 and therefore has everything it takes for further success on the trace tack.

The new car therefore continues the series of uncompromisingly sporting derivatives of the 911 homologated for road use and, with its purist character, addresses above all the driver with motorsport ambitions, as the car’s specifications clearly prove:

3.8-litre six-cylinder horizontally-opposed power unit delivering 450 bhp (331 kW); six-speed manual gearbox; acceleration from 0 – 100 km/h in 4.0 seconds; top speed 310 km/h (192 mph); DIN unladen weight 1,370 kg (3,021 lb); fuel consumption in the NEDC driving cycle 13.2 ltr/100 km (equal to 21.4 mpg imp).

At very first sight the new 911 GT3 RS clearly demonstrates its close connection with motorsport. This is borne out in particular by the car’s low suspension, central bolts on the wheels, the new, large rear wing made of carbon-fibre and with aluminium supports on each side, the purpose-built front and rear sections as well as the dual tailpipe in the middle made of top-quality titanium on the new 911 GT3 RS, just like the entire rear muffler.

The power unit of the 911 GT3 RS is based on the proven components already featured in the current 911 GT3 – including the increase in engine capacity over the former model from 3.6 to 3.8 litres. The most important highlights are dry sump lubrication with an external engine oil tank, titanium connecting rods, upgraded VarioCam valve control with small cup tappets able to run at high engine speeds, a variable intake system with two resonance flaps, and the sports exhaust system with reduced counter-pressure.

The increase in power over the 911 GT3 by 15 bhp is the result of the improved air filter and intake manifold reducing flow resistance by approximately 20 per cent.

With its high-speed engine concept for maximum speeds of up to 8,500 rpm, as well as further modifications for extra power, the new 911 GT3 RS, like its predecessor, is one of the absolute leaders in its segment. Indeed, output per litre of more than 118 bhp comes right at the top among all naturally-aspirated power units ever built for a car homologated for the road.

High-speed power unit even lighter and more agile than before

The six-cylinder power unit has been optimised consistently and without compromises for agility and free-revving qualities. One of the features used for this purpose is a single-mass flywheel allowing the engine to rev up faster and therefore offering an even greater potential for fast acceleration. Compared with the former model, the single-mass flywheel on the 911 GT3 RS is approximately 1.4 kilos lighter, therefore offering a reduction in weight of more than 8 kg or 17.5 lb versus the two-mass flywheel on the 911 GT3. Short transmission ratios further enhance the actual performance of the car.

Like on the current 911 GT3, the driver is able to further increase the power of the high-performance engine also in the new 911 GT3 RS. This he does by pressing the Sports Button featured as standard in the centre console, increasing torque at medium engine speeds, as on the 911 GT3, by up to 35 Nm/26 lb-ft. Maximum torque of 430 Nm/317 lb-ft at 6,750 rpm, however, remains unchanged.

The increase in torque is achieved by a further reduction of exhaust gas counter-pressure in the sports exhaust system and the further improvement of the charge cycle provided in this way.

Power transmission optimised consistently for supreme performance

The new 911 GT3 RS comes as standard with a manual six-speed gearbox optimised for short gear travel, low weight and high efficiency. To improve performance to an even higher level, gears 1 – 5 come with a transmission ratio about 11 per cent shorter than on the 911 GT3, providing an even better ongoing flow of power after shifting gears and offering new potential for even faster acceleration.

The transmission ratio in sixth gear is 5 per cent shorter, deliberately foregoing an even higher top speed in the interest of maximum racetrack performance.

The power unit of the new 911 GT3 RS is supplemented by a mechanical rear axle lock generating an asymmetric effect, featured as standard like on the former model and the current 911 GT3. Locking action is 28 per cent under power and 40 per cent in overrun, ensuring high traction on varying road surfaces as well as precise behaviour in bends, especially under load change, all the way up to the very limit.

Dynamic engine mounts featured as standard also serve to improve the car’s driving dynamics, changing their stiffness and damping effect as a result of driving conditions and improving the connection between the power unit and the body whenever the driver prefers a particularly dynamic style of motoring.

To ensure an even higher standard of sporting performance, the 911 new GT3 RS comes with an appropriately set-up PASM suspension, extra-large brakes with aluminium brake covers, wheels with central bolts and wider track for the first time not only at the rear, but also at the front. Accordingly, the body of the new 911 GT3 RS is not only wider on the rear axle, but also comes with additional wheel arch fairings on the front wheels, which now measure nine inches in width and run on 245/35 ZR 19 sports tyres, while the wheels at the rear are twelve inches wide and come on 325/30 ZR 19 sports tyres.

First 911 GT3 RS with Porsche Stability Management suitable for racing

Another new feature on the 911 GT3 RS is PSM Porsche Stability Management, in this case in a special, extra-sporting version. As opposed to Traction Control featured on the former model, a system serving to stabilise the car when accelerating, PSM offers a much higher standard of active safety, while, through its specific set-up, nevertheless also meets the dynamic requirements of the extremely sporting driver. Indeed, its control algorithm completely switching off when desired in two stages has been developed specifically for racing on the track.

New: lithium-ion battery to save weight

By tradition, supreme performance as a result of low weight has always been of particularly great significance on the 911 GT3. Precisely this is why the current 911 GT3 comes with features such as the bootlid and doors made of aluminium, providing a good starting point for weight reduction.

Despite its even wider body, the new 911 GT3 RS is 25 kilos or 55 lb lighter than the 911 GT3, weighing just 1,370 kg or 3,021 lb. This significant reduction of weight is achieved, among other things, by lighter components such as the titanium exhaust system, the single-mass flywheel, the rear window made of a special synthetic material, lightweight door panels, as well as the centre panel at the rear and the rear wing itself made of composite materials.

Starting in 2010, Porsche will furthermore be introducing yet another new option, a lithium-ion battery coming together with the car specifically for use on the race track. Subsequently fitted instead of the conventional lead battery, this reduces the overall weight of the car by more than 10 kg or 22 lb.

Improved aerodynamics for additional downforce

Yet a further highlight in developing the new 911 GT3 RS was the car’s aerodynamics, particularly the generation of downforce. Thanks to the larger rear wing, downforce on the rear axle is even greater than on the 911 GT3, an effect supplemented by an additional spoiler on the front lip of the new 911 GT3 RS. This generates higher downforce also on the front axle to keep the car in perfect aerodynamic balance, the new 911 GT3 RS thus offering an even greater potential for fast lateral acceleration and even higher speeds on winding circuits.

Specifically designed and created for motorsport, the interior of the new 911 GT3 RS features alcantara elements and is even more purist in style than the interior of the GT3. Typical features are the lightweight door panels with traditional door opening straps, a special RS sports steering wheel, and various carbon components. The cupholder is dropped for reasons of weight.

Again in the interest of minimum weight, the RS is also available without air conditioning and a radio. The Clubsport Package already well-known from the GT3, made up of a rollbar, fire extinguisher, six-point seat belt and flame-retardant seat covers bearing the RS 3.8 logo, is standard on the new 911 GT3 RS. Additional features available on request are a pneumatic lift system for the front axle raising up the front end of the car by approximately 30 millimetres or 1.2 inches or a 90-litre (19.8 imp gals) long-distance fuel tank.

Quite generally, the range of customisation options has been significantly increased over the former model, with light halogen headlights or dynamic bending lights as well as PCM Porsche Communication Management complete with a touchscreen and the integrated HomeLink^® garage gate opener all available as options.

The New Porsche 911 GT3 Cup

New Edition of the World’s Most Successful Racing car

Stronger, wider, faster – the new version of the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup offers its many customers the world over even greater value than ever before. The successor to the best-selling racing car of all time built in a production series of more than 1,400 units is based for the first time on the 911 GT3 RS, with the weight of the racing model reduced significantly versus the lightweight road-going version.

This is the first GT3 Cup to feature the 44-millimetre (1.73”) wider body at the rear, providing sufficient space for even larger wheels. Wider wheel arches also at the front clearly show that the front wheels are likewise new.

Engine capacity is up by 0.2 litres over the former model, engine output is 30 bhp more than before. The most important facts and figures: 3.8-litre six-cylinder horizontally-opposed power unit developing 450 bhp (331 kW), sequential six-speed manual gearbox, weight 1,200 kg (2,646 lb), racing version of the 911 GT3 RS.

Improved aerodynamics for even faster lap times

The new GT3 Cup is clearly recognisable at very first sight through the special looks and design of the front end. The striking daytime driving lights come straight from the current generation of the 911, the front body panels are the same as on the 911 GT3 RS. The front spoiler lip is however 15 millimetres or almost 0.6” lower to provide significantly more downforce on the front axle. Downforce on the rear axle is also increased by the rear wing extended in width from 1.46 to 1.70 metres (57.5 to 66.9”) and fitted higher up as a feature carried over from the even faster 911 GT3 Cup S in international FIA GT3 racing. The rear air dam with its striking air vent openings as well as the rear lights in LED technology, in turn, come straight from the road model.

Production-based power unit for maximum service life

The power unit featured in the new 911 GT3 Cup is largely identical to the production engine in the 911 GT3 RS – same output of 450 bhp and same maximum engine speed of 8,500 rpm. Capacity of the Cup engine, however, is up from 3.6 litres on the former model to 3.8 litres on the new car, helping to increase engine power by 30 bhp.

A racing exhaust system with a fully controlled catalytic converter helps to reduce harmful emissions to a minimum. As an exclusive feature in the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup held on the occasion of the FIA Formula 1 World Championship races, the new 911 GT3 Cup comes with a modified, special exhaust system offering an even more dynamic and muscular sound.

Another feature exclusive to the Supercup version is PCCB Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes also available on Porsche’s road models. Compared with the composite cast brake discs featured on the Carrera Cup cars, this reduces the weight of the car by approximately 20 kg or 44 lb.

Wider wheels and additional adjustment options

The wheel arches wider at the front and the flared wheel arches at the rear provide ample space for even wider wheels. Hence, the front axle comes with three-piece light-alloy rims measuring 9.5 J x 18 (previously 9 J x 18) and running on 24/64-18 Michelin racing tyres. The three-piece light-alloy rims on the rear axle are up by one inch in width, now measuring 12 J x 18 and running on 27/68-18 tyres.

Additional Unibal joints are featured on the track control arms and the sword-shaped anti-roll bars front and rear are now adjustable to seven different positions on both sides, allowing an even more precise set-up of the car in accordance with the respective race track.

Modified cockpit with improved ventilation

The cockpit of the new 911 GT3 Cup caters even more than before for the specific needs of the driver. An additional vent in the upper part of the front lid, for example, provides the driver with an even better supply of fresh air. The controls for the Info Display are now positioned directly on the steering wheel housing a total of six switches. And in addition to fore-and-aft adjustment, the steering wheel may now also be adjusted for height as on the regular production car.

Deliveries starting in late October for seven cup trophies

The new Porsche 911 GT3 Cup available exclusively in Carrara White will be delivered to customers as of the end of October. In the upcoming season it will be raced in no less than seven cup trophies – not only in the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup on the occasion of Formula 1 races, but also in the Porsche Carrera Cups in Germany, Asia, Japan, and Italy, as well as the GT3 Cup Challenges in the USA and the Middle East.

Pagani Zonda

The new Pagani Zonda – A Complicated Search of Simple Ideas

• Futuristic and provocative in its design, a synthesis of art and advanced technology;
• The advantages and fascination of carbon fibre, offered by our technicians who can boast of extraordinary experience and expertise in processing this material;
• The strength and the safety deriving from the official supply by Mercedes-AMG of the powerful V12 engine;
• The privilege and the satisfaction of being able to create and closely follow your own ZONDA, exclusive and personal, like a work of art.

DESIGN
Soft and aggressive, elegant and original, classic and with an eye to the future … Zonda S, synonym of exclusiveness and privilege.
The design of the ZONDA S, the result of Horacio Pagani’s creative ability, is the maximum expression of aesthetic, aerodynamic and ergonomic research generating strong emotions.
The spirit of improvement of the Zonda S 7.3 is based on a simple concept that we want to defend and exalt: the stubborn rigour in the search for perfection and originality.
ZONDA S where the solutions adopted are perfect in every detail. The car has soft and clean lines, optimised internal and external air intakes and the special pointed “nose”, which was already foreseen in the early sketches examined in 1988 by Juan Manuel Fangio.
The aerodynamic pressure centre is positioned even further back thanks to the displacement of the original dual spoiler, complete with two flaps on the engine bonnet.
The overall structure ensures a high aerodynamic efficiency for the entire car, contributing to the considerable aesthetic impact.
The rear lights, the network of air outlets and the round housing of the four exhaust terminals create an original and unique geometry: a real “trademark” for the Zonda S.
Today, more than ever, Zonda S represents fascination, power, and aggressiveness in a pure form.

The engineering in the construction of the ZONDA is as innovative as its design concept, and is a statement about the philosophy that guides Haracio Pagani and his team: a search for visual and technical perfection in every detail, even the smallest and most insignificant. The Pagani Automobili company and Modena Design, the partner in this project, hope that they have reached their goal: the final word in the matter is left to the fortunate owners who are the real fans and connoisseurs of this category.

TECHNOLOGY
ZONDA S is the maximum expression of a search for technical-aesthetic-functional detail.
The extremely lightweight bonnets, under which the carbon “speaks”, house the mechanics, exposed like a work of art in a central position and supported by two small Cr-Mo tubular frames.
The new 7.3 engine with titanium connecting rods is equipped now with a specifically designed and entirely handmade air intake system; this new feature enwraps the engine and gives the unit an even more impressive overall appearance. The air intake positioned in a high-pressure area contributes to enhance the efficiency of the 7.3 engine that with a maximum power output of 555 CV and confirms the excellent work done by the Mercedes AMG technicians.
The excellent performance is achieved while complying with the most demanding technological standards; producing a torque figure of 620 Nm already at 2,000 r.p.m. which increases up to 750 Nm at 4,050 r.p.m. The engine’s rotation top speed, now at 7,000 r.p.m. heightens the aggressive sporting character, which was already a feature of this engine, without overshadowing its flexible and progressive qualities.

The Euro III type approval completes the attractive features of this racing engine and allows the engine to be used normally on standard roads.
The central carbon chassis is produced by implementing aeronautical methods and incorporates the Cr-Mo and composite roll bar.
The front sub-frame has a high impact absorbing capacity, ensuring an excellent degree of protection; passive safety is optimum in the event of a crash or rollover.
The rear sub-frame is designed to support the load of the mechanics and of the sophisticated aluminium suspensions. In addition, the new Zonda S 7.3 is equipped with ABS, Traction Control, adjustable suspensions with Ohlins shock absorbers, Brembo braking system, with 4 very generously sized self-ventilated discs, 18” OZ Racing alloy wheel rims and specifically designed Michelin Pilot Sport tyres.

INTERIOR FINISH
Originality and functionality are the dominant themes of the ZONDA S, underlined by the generous use of leather, carbon, satin finish aluminium and other precious materials.
The made to measure carbon seats are upholstered in leather and nabuk, the dashboard is of satin-finish aluminium, the instrumentation grouped underneath an extremely original eyelid design, the finely machined aluminium foot pedals … are all features of distinctive originality and comfort. Rear visibility has improved, thanks to the bonnet profile, which is now lower. The interior finish is completed with a stereo, multi-loading CD changer, satellite navigator and air conditioner.

ROAD PERFORMANCE
The dynamic characteristics, which can always be exploited in every condition, combine to make the ZONDA S a real “object of pleasure”.
The silent running Mercedes engine, the luminous dome roof, the excellent soundproofing and the virtual total absence of vibrations (the result of careful design) offer incredible comfort.

The weight is limited to only 1,250 kg, while the torsional stiffness and resistance to bending have reached record breaking levels. To the real car enthusiast the ZONDA S presents itself as a reactive car in every condition, free from roll and pitch effects and with extremely precise steering.

The road holding capacity is good and safe: not only thanks to the excellent suspensions and the very rigid chassis, but also to the high aerodynamic efficiency of the bodywork which offers an overall negative lift equal to 500 kg at a speed of 300 km/h*.
The ZONDA is capable of being placid and comfortable in normal driving conditions, or becomes a racing car unleashing the “beast” that ZONDA harbours inside.

Range Rover

The Range Rover – now with enhanced rear seat luxury

For 2010, Land Rover’s flagship Range Rover offers a powerful new supercharged LR-V8 engine (alongside the popular TDV8), revolutionary interior technologies and enhanced driving dynamics to reinforce its position as the world’s most complete luxury 4×4.  Now, a series of further refinements, with the focus on enhanced luxury for rear seat passengers, make their global debut at IAA Frankfurt.

Land Rover is introducing a sophisticated feature of electronically-controlled reclining rear seats, which will be particularly valued by chauffeur-driven customers.  The seats can be independently controlled by the left and right seat passengers, and comfort is further enhanced by the availability of heated and cooled seats, four-way adjustable lumbar support and airline-style winged head restraints.  Rear seat passengers can also enjoy significantly increased leg room by remotely moving the front passenger seat to its forward-most position (when the front passenger seat is unoccupied).  The addition of laminated rear-door privacy glass significantly reduces interior noise levels too.

The peerless luxury and exclusivity provided by the Range Rover is given a further boost by the addition of four sumptuous new interior colour combinations on the Autobiography series, and the availability of the world-class Logic 7 1200W Harman Kardon High Dynamics audio system, with 15 independent channels driving 19 premium quality speakers.

New Autobiography Sport versions join Range Rover Sport line-up for 2010

The stylish Range Rover Sport for 2010 offers enhanced vehicle dynamics and significantly improved performance thanks to two new powerful, refined and efficient engines: the formidable Supercharged LR-V8 5.0 litre and the LR-TDV6 3.0-litre Advanced Sequential Turbo Diesel. Along with striking exterior design changes and an all new interior, Range Rover Sport maintains its class-leading credentials.

Now, an unprecedented level of personalisation for Range Rover Sport is available too, with a stunning selection of six Autobiography Sport limited edition themes featuring stylish duo-tone premium leather interiors as well as unique exterior design cues including the grille, vents and 20″ diamond turned finish alloy wheels, all presented for the first time at the IAA.

Three of the themes – called Cannes, Portofino and Valencia – have a more luxury-orientated character, while the other three – named Le Mans, Monaco and Monza – have an overtly sporting theme and feature a dramatic new body kit which is tailored to accentuate the sophisticated style of the 2010 Range Rover Sport.  The striking body kit is also available as a separate option.

Maserati GranCabrio

The New Maserati GranCabrio

The introduction of the GranCabrio – the Trident’s third prong – completes Maserati’s product line-up that now consists of three different families of models: Quattroporte, GranTurismo, GranCabrio.

The GranCabrio represents the very essence of Maserati in terms of open-top cars.  It’s a Maserati in the purest sense of the word: from the unmistakable style by Pininfarina to the spacious interior, from the craftsmanship of each detail to the driving pleasure and performance. The Maserati GranCabrio enriches all five senses in a shared open-air experience, without sacrificing comfort and performance.  A dream car designed and built for men and women who love to live life in an understated – though sophisticated – manner.  Like all the made in Maserati open-top convertibles: special cars aimed at refined connoisseurs.

The GranCabrio is continuing the Maserati tradition in open-top fine automobiles, beginning with the 1950 A6G Frua Spyder, and continuing through a long list of significant and thrilling open air models. However, in adding to this tradition, the GranCabrio opens a new chapter, because never before have four-seater top-down models ever been produced at the Viale Ciro Menotti Maserati factory in Modena. Four proper seats are provided, so that the rear passengers are not merely supporting actors, but co-stars of the journey.

The GranCabrio is powered by a 4.7 liter V8, 323 kW engine and is the convertible with the longest wheelbase on the market (versus its direct competitors).  The GranCabrio’s roof is strictly canvas-made, emphasizing the link with the Maserati tradition.

The Maserati GranCabrio will be marketed starting next winter, and experienced by customers the world over from the following spring.

Technical specifications

Body

High-strength steel bearing monocoque with box-section panels and structure constructed in sheet galvanized, two-door cabriolet, four seats, longitudinal centre-front engine (between the two axles), rear wheel drive.

Cx 0.35 with car closed and 0.39 with car open.

Monocoque

Multi-material bearing monocoque, passive safety performance conforming to “worldwide” regulations, integration of various design technologies for weight/performance optimization: steel structural part, aluminum bonnet and bumper front reinforcement cross member, boot lid in thermosetting composite material.

Frame

Derived from the Quattroporte structure, with reduced wheelbase and rear overhang, designed to satisfy the most stringent American crash standards (FMVSS208, Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard), front structure compliant with ACEA1 “pedestrian impact” standards.

Constructed in high-strength steel boxed sections; it integrates a tubular structure in the rear part to support suspensions and differential; front serves to support the suspensions and engine.

Aluminum sub-floor structural reinforcements.

Suspension

Standard Skyhook system.

Front: quadrilateral with forged aluminum hub carriers and struts, basic aluminum gas dampers with continuous damping variation and acceleration sensors on each wheel (Skyhook), coaxial helical springs.

Rear: with quadrilaterals with forged aluminum hub carriers and struts, additional radius bar for toe-in control; basic aluminum dampers with continuous damping variation and acceleration sensors on each wheel (Skyhook).

Front and rear suspension fitted with hollow bars that reduce roll and mass, and increase driving comfort.

Steering

Hydraulic steering box with tacho-sensitive servo assistance with on road steering ratio 64 mm/rev.

Steering diameter (from pavement to pavement): 10.7 m.

Transmission

Architecture with front transmission in unit with the engine, drive shaft, rear differential. 6-speed hydraulic torque converter gearbox (ZF 6HP26).

Transmission gear ratios: 1^st gear 4,171; 2^nd gear 2,340; 3^rd gear 1,521; 4^th gear 1,143; 5^th gear 0,867; 6^th gear 0,691; R 3,403.

Asymmetric limited slip differential (25% in traction, 45% in release) with bevel drive with final ratio 3.73 (15/56).

Steel drive shaft, 69 mm diameter, articulated in two pieces with three constant-velocity joints, and supported at the centre with a bearing which is integral with a support cross member tightened to the chassis, with an interposed rubber ring.

Traction control and Maserati Stability Program (MSP) incorporating the traction control (ASR), release torque (MSR), anti-lock braking (ABS), and electronic brake distribution (EBD) systems.

Engine

8 cylinders in 90 degree V, total displacement 4,691 cm³. Crankcase and cylinder heads in hardened and tempered aluminum alloy, crankshaft in hardened and tempered steel, balanced individually on 5 main bearings.

The timing system features double chain-driven overhead camshaft per bank; four valves per cylinder driven by hydraulic cups.

Continuous phase variator on intake camshafts.

Increased-diameter Nikasil-coated thin steel cylinder liners.

Wet sump lubrication, oil sump integral with crankcase, single oil bath pump.

Bosch integrated ignition and injection systems, and drive-by-wire accelerator.

Displacement:  4,691 cm³

Bore:  94 mm

Stroke:  84.5 mm

Compression ratio:  11.25:1

Maximum power output:  323 kW (440 CV)

Engine speed at maximum power output: 7,000 rpm

Peak torque:  490 Nm (50 kgm)

Engine speed at peak torque:  4,750 rpm

Maximum engine speed:  7,200 rpm

Dimensions and weight

Length:  4,881 mm

Width (without mirrors): 1,915 mm

Width (with mirrors): 2,056 mm

Height:  1,353 mm

Wheelbase: 2,942 mm

Front track:  1,586 mm

Rear track: 1,590 mm

Front overhang:  873 mm

Rear overhang: 1,066 mm

Trunk capacity: 173 l

Fuel tank capacity: 75 l

Dry weight (UE version): 1,887 kg

Kerb weight (UE version): 1,980 kg

Weight distribution: 49% front; 51% rear with car closed;

48% front; 52% rear with car open

Performance

Top speed:  283 km/h with car closed

Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 5,4 s

Pick-up 80 -120 km/h: 4.2 s

Stopping distance from 100 Km/h – 0:  35 m

Mercedes SLS AMG

The New Mercedes SLS AMG

The new gull-wing model from Mercedes-Benz

Automotive fascination and high tech of the highest order — these are the characteristics embodied by the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. The super sports car boasts a purist design, consistent lightweight design, superior driving dynamics and exemplary safety.

The new super sports car from Mercedes-Benz and AMG dazzles with its unparalleled technology package: an aluminium space-frame bodyshell with gull-wing doors; an AMG 6.3-litre, front-mid V8 engine with 420 kW/571 hp peak output, 650 Nm of torque, and dry sump lubrication; seven-speed dual-clutch transmission in a transaxle configuration; and sports suspension with aluminium double-wishbones. It’s a unique combination that guarantees supreme driving dynamics. The car’s ideal weight distribution between the front and rear axles (47 to 53 percent respectively), its low centre of gravity and DIN kerb weight of 1,620 kilograms emphasize the outstanding sports car concept. The gull-wing model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and has a top speed of 317 km/h (electronically limited). The fuel consumption of 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres (combined) is best-in-class (all values provisional).

Design: Purist, distinctive, and passionate

The purist design of the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG dazzles with its passionate sportiness and reinterprets the breathtaking design of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL. The stylistic highlight is without a doubt the gull-wing doors, which impart the SLS AMG with incomparable charisma. The long bonnet, the low greenhouse positioned far back, and the short rear with the extendable rear spoiler symbolise dynamics, as do the long wheelbase, the wide track, and the large wheels. It is not just the gull-wing doors that awaken reminiscences of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL. The wide radiator grille with the large Mercedes star, the wing-like cross fin on the bonnet and the vehicle flanks are also reminiscent of the legendary sports car.

Page Aviation engineering provided the inspiration to the Mercedes-Benz designers for  the interior. The characteristic styling feature is the dashboard, whose powerful and dramatic wing-shape makes for an impression of width. The four prominent dashboard air vents with their adjustable, cruciform nozzles are reminiscent of a jet’s engines. The elongated centre console made of solid matt metal also takes up the plane cockpit theme. Among other things, the centre console incorporates the AMG DRIVE UNIT, which enables SLS owners to customise their vehicle set-up. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission is operated by means of the E-SELECT lever, which resembles a jet’s thrust control. Despite the low seating position typical of a sports car, the wide opening gull-wing doors ensure easy entry and exit. The gull-wing doors require less room to open than do conventional coupe doors and can be completely opened in standard sized garages.

Aluminium space frame for light weight and highest strength

The SLS is taking a new approach in its body concept. For the first time ever, Mercedes-Benz and AMG are presenting an automobile, whose chassis and body are made of aluminium. This leads to significant weight savings compared to the traditional steel construction, as shown by the car’s DIN kerb weight of only 1,620 kilograms. The newly developed aluminium space-frame bodyshell combines intelligent, lightweight design with high strength — and thus benefits the excellent handling dynamics. The aluminium space frame is 45 per cent aluminium profiles, 31 per cent aluminium panelling, 20 per cent cast aluminium and four per cent steel. The use of ultra high-tensile, hot-rolled steel in the A-pillars provides a further increase in occupant safety. The shell weighs 241 kilograms — an absolute peak value in the super sports car segment. The highest possible degree of passive safety is guaranteed for the occupants by the vehicle’s standard equipment, which includes three-point seatbelts, seat-belt tensioners, belt force limiters, and eight airbags.

Further-developed AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine with an output of 420 kW/571 hp

The heart of the SLS is a powerful eight-cylinder engine with dry sump lubrication. The AMG 6.3-litre V8 produces 420 kW/571 hp at 6,800 rpm and develops a maximum torque of 650 Nm at 4,750 rpm. The SLS accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 317 km/h (all figures are preliminary). The SLS AMG consumes 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres (combined, preliminary figure). Efficiency-enhancement measures include not only the LDS cylinder bore linings but also a need-based fuel delivery and the recovery of braking energy. The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine delivers its power to the rear axle via a dual-clutch transmission permanently connected to the engine housing via a torque tube. A carbon shaft rotates at engine speed inside the torque tube. Power transfer is via the new AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT seven-speed sports transmission. This dualclutch transmission boasts fast gear changes with no interruption of tractive force and offers four driving modes. The mechanical differential lock guarantees optimum traction.

Sophisticated chassis layout with double-wishbone suspension

All four wheels are guided on dual A-arms with track rod. The A-arms, the steering knuckles and hub carriers at the front and rear axles are made of aluminium. The gull-wing model comes with a 3-stage ESP® as standard. The AMG high-performance brake system with composite brake discs on the front axle ensures short braking distances. Even better braking performance is offered by
the optional ceramic-composite brake system. Weight-optimised AMG light alloy wheels in accordance with the new, innovative flow-forming principle, 9.5 x 19 inches at the front, and 11.0 x 20 inch at the rear, are fitted with 265/35 R 19 tyres up front and 295/30 R 20 tyres at the rear. The reinterpretation of the gull-wing model will celebrate its market launch in
spring 2010. The price will be 177,310 euros (incl. 19% VAT).

Panamera

The New Porsche Panamera

The Porsche in the Gran Turismo World

Celebrating the launch of the Panamera, Porsche is proudly introducing the first four-door Gran Turismo in the history of the company. Developed completely new from the ground up, the Panamera sets new standards in its class not only through supreme performance combined with low fuel consumption, but also through particularly generous comfort on all four seats and an exclusive range of features and equipment.

As Porsche’s fourth model series following the 911, the Cayenne and the Boxster/Cayman, the Panamera is entering the market initially in three versions:

Panamera S    4.8-litre V8 with 400 bhp (294 kW); rear-wheel drive, six-speed manual gearbox, seven-speed PDK Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe as an option; acceleration 0 – 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds, with PDK in 5.4 seconds; Top speed 285 km/h (177 mph), with PDK 283 km/h (175 mph); fuel consumption in the NEDC 12.5 ltr/100 km (22.6 mpg imp), with PDK 10.8 ltr/100 km (26.2 mpg imp).

Panamera 4S  4.8-litre V8 with 400 bhp (294 kW); active PTM Porsche Traction Management all-wheel drive; seven-speed PDK Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe; acceleration 0 – 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds; Top speed 282 km/h (175 mph); fuel consumption in the NEDC 11.1 ltr/100 km (41.2 mpg imp).

Panamera Turbo     4.8-litre V8 biturbo with 500 bhp (368 kW); active PTM Porsche Traction Management all-wheel drive; seven-speed PDK Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe; acceleration 0 – 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds; top speed 303 km/h (188 mph); fuel consumption in the NEDC 12.2 ltr/100 km (23.2 mpg imp).

An entry-level V6 as well as a hybrid-drive Panamera are following later.

The core technologies of the new Panamera include no less than five innovations offered for the first time in a luxury performance production model: Porsche’s new Gran Turismo is the first car to feature a double-clutch gearbox in this market segment, comes with the first Start Stop system in conjunction with automatic transmission, for the first time features adaptive air suspension with additional air volume in each spring, offers active aerodynamics provided by the rear spoiler moving up automatically and adjustable in its angle, and has the first Sports Chrono Package in this market segment. The latter gives the engine, suspension and transmission, as well as other components, an even more sporting set-up and, in conjunction with PDK, features the special Launch Control function for acceleration to 100 km/h from a standstill another 0.2 seconds faster.

Outstanding efficiency

Efficiency is of fundamental significance both with the Panamera and with Porsche’s sports cars in general. Precisely this is why all models come with Direct Fuel Injection, low-friction drive systems and a lightweight body. Even the top model, the Panamera Turbo, weighs less than 2,000 kg or 4,400 lb (DIN), despite its wide range of standard equipment.

To save even more fuel and reduce CO₂ emissions to a minimum, all versions of the Panamera with the Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (double-clutch gearbox) come with a new Auto Start Stop function automatically switching off the engine when the car comes to a standstill – for example at the traffic lights or in congested traffic – and with the driver holding down the brake pedal. The engine then starts again automatically as soon as the driver releases the brake. This ensures a particularly improvement of fuel economy above all in city traffic.

Choice of several suspension options for a perfect synthesis of sportiness and comfort

More than any other car in its class, the Panamera combines supreme sportiness and motoring comfort of the highest standard. Apart from steel springs with variable dampers offered by PASM Porsche Active Suspension Management, the customer also has the choice of brand-new adaptive air suspension including PASM with additional air volume on each spring – a feature standard on the Panamera Turbo and optional on the other models.

Activating different spring rates, adaptive air suspension provides an even broader range of suspension set-ups with extending from further enhanced motoring comfort at one end and very sporting driving dynamics at the other. A further important point is that adaptive air suspension lowers the entire body of the car by 25 millimetres or 1.0” in the Sport Plus Mode, further improving the aerodynamics and centre of gravity of the Panamera, with a corresponding increase in driving safety and a decrease in fuel consumption.

As an option the Panamera may also be equipped with PDDC Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control actively compensating body roll in bends and at the same time improving the car’s response when driving straight ahead on bumpy roads. PDDC always comes in combination with a fully controlled rear axle lock to enhance both traction and agility.

The design of the Panamera: a typical Porsche with unique proportions

Showing their usual feeling of design, Porsche’s design specialists have succeeded in making the Panamera a brand-new and truly unique model and, at the same time, a typical Porsche all the way. Right from the start the Panamera stands out through its proportions: As the widest but lowest of all comparable four-door models, this Gran Turismo not quite five metres in length is truly unmistakable.

In its styling and details, the Panamera naturally follows the design philosophy refined over decades on the 911 Carrera and successfully implemented on the Boxster, Cayman, and Cayenne. The unique qualities of the Panamera also come out in its functional luggage space concept, the tailgate opening up to a steep angle enabling the driver and passengers to conveniently load four medium-sized suitcases behind the rear seats.

Innovative interior concept with single-seat comfort

Developed consistently as a four-seater, this unique Gran Turismo goes its own way also in interior design and comfort. Despite its unmistakably low and stretched silhouette, the Panamera measuring 4.97 metres (195.7”) in length but only 1.42 metres (55.9”) in height offers genuine space and grace on all four seats.

With its centre console extending all the way from front to rear and rising up slightly at the front, the interior offers the driver optimum ergonomic conditions and at the same time highlights the personal ambience of each individual passenger on single seats perfectly tailored to the occupant. The low seating position, finally, ensures that direct contact with the road so typical of Porsche.

All models within the range come as standard with sports-oriented comfort seats for the driver and passengers. Adjustable electrically in no less than eight different directions, these seats ensure excellent grand touring comfort right from the start in the Panamera S und 4S. In the Panamera Turbo electric seat adjustment is combined with a comfort memory package also serving to extend the seat bottom in length, comprising lumbar supports and featuring electrical adjustment of the steering column.

At the rear all models come with two single seats with a folding centre armrest, ensuring lots of legroom and headroom also for tall passengers.

Other alternatives such as adaptive sports seats or comfort seats at the rear adjustable electrically to a large number of different settings are available as an option. And last but certainly not least, the customer enjoys a wide range of other equipment options extending from various types of leather upholstery all the way to the key-less Porsche Entry & Drive-system (standard on the Panamera Turbo).

Unusually efficient: individual climate control

All the models in the Panamera range come with air conditioning optimised in terms of energy efficiency, weight, and space required. Two-zone automatic air conditioning is featured as standard, with separate, fully automatic control of air volume and distribution for the driver and front passenger, and with manual adjustment whenever required via the main control unit on the centre console.

Four-zone automatic air conditioning is available as an option, with separate adjustment of temperature, blower intensity and air distribution on each seat. To distribute the air fed into the car and ensure the right temperature, Porsche’s engineers have developed a sophisticated system of ducts and vents providing the ideal climate desired at all times.

Your very personal Panamera: wide range of functions and features

The Panamera sets its own new standards in the luxury performance segment also through new audio and communication features. The highlight and central control unit is the seven-inch colour touchscreen in combination with both the CDR-31 audio system and with PCM Porsche Communication Management (PCM) including a navigation module.

The CDR-31 audio system is standard on the Panamera S and 4S, the Panamera Turbo comes as standard with PCM including the navigation module available as an option on the other two models. Proceeding from this starting point, Porsche’s Gran Turismo is available with a wide range of functions from voice control through Bluetooth^® connections for a mobile telephone all the way to an electronic logbook.

As an option the passengers at the rear may enjoy their own, very personal entertainment programme in the Panamera. Porsche Rear Seat Entertainment comes with two consoles for swivelling seven-inch TFT colour displays including integrated players and cordless infra-red headsets integrated in the backrests of the front seats. The system is controlled conveniently through touchscreen operation and even offers the option to transmit films or data from one screen to the other.

The fastest concert hall in the world: the Panamera with the Burmester^® High-End Sound System

The Panamera is the first Porsche available beyond the BOSE^® Surround Sound System featured as standard in the Panamera Turbo and optional on all other models with the Burmester^® High-End Surround Sound System as the absolute pinnacle in listening pleasure. The German specialist Burmester^® from Berlin is one of the most renowned manufacturers of high-end audio systems of truly supreme quality.

Never before has such a large, acoustically effective sound membrane surface been literally built into a car during the concept phase and now featured in the production model: 2,400 square-centimetres of sound membranes are spread out among 16 loudspeakers fed by 16 amplifier channels with more than 1,000 watt overall output, including an active subwoofer with a 300-watt Class D amplifier.