Thursday, August 11, 2011

2012 Ferrari FF Stylish Luxury Concept

The Ferrari FF an acronym for Ferrari Four (four seats and four-wheel drive) ushers in an entirely new GT sports car concept. A decisive break with the past, the new car represents not so much an evolution as a true revolution. This new V12 melds to an unprecedented level an extremely sporty, high-performance character with incredible versatility, superb comfort and sophisticated elegance, guaranteeing both driver and passengers an absolutely unique driving experience. Designed by Pininfarina, the shape and proportions perfectly interpret the FF�s harmonious blend of sporting DNA and extraordinary usability.

The Ferrari FF features the company�s first ever four-wheel drive system. Ferrari�s exclusive, patented 4RM (four-wheel drive) weighs 50 per cent less than a conventional fourwheel drive system, maintaining perfect weight distribution (53 per cent over the rear axle). Completely integrated with the car�s electronic dynamic control systems, the four-wheel drive technology delivers record levels of performance on all terrains and in
all conditions via continuous and intelligent predictive torque distribution to all four wheels. The FF is also equipped with the latest magnetorheological damping system (SCM3), as well as the most recent development in carbon-ceramic brakes from Brembo.

2012 Ferrari FF

Exceptional performance levels come courtesy of the new 6,262 cc direct injection engine which develops 660 CV at 8,000 rpm. In tandem with its transaxle dual-clutch F1 gearbox, stunning acceleration figures (0-100 km/h in 3.7 sec.) are guaranteed. The new model�s class-leading weight-to-power ratio of 2.7 kg/CV, along with its ideal weight distribution, ensures exceptionally responsive handling. The result is that owners will be able to enjoy the FF�s prowess over a wide range of uses: city driving, on low grip or snow-covered surfaces and on the track.

2012 Ferrari FF

The FF Performance aside, Maranello�s latest model also offers standards of passenger space, comfort, in-car spec and equipment previously unheard of in such a high-performance car. It can comfortably accommodate four people and their luggage, thanks to the best cabin space and boot capacity (450 litres extendable to 800) figures in its category, including four-door cars. A vast array of personalisation options and accessories has been developed for the FF.

2012 Ferrari FF

These include six model-specific exterior colours and sumptuous interior trim incorporating specially selected and treated aniline leather. The FF, which will make its official debut in occasion of the upcoming Geneva Motor Show, is presented today with the first three photos from a dedicated shoot by Giovanni Gastel.

2012 FERRARI FF SPECIFICATIONS

Engine
Type 65-degree V12
Overall displacement 6,262 cc
Maximum power 660 CV @ 8,000 rpm
Maximum torque 683 Nm @ 6,000 rpm
Dimensions and weight
Length 4907 mm
Width 1953 mm
Height 1379 mm
Dry weight 1790 kg
Weight distribution 47% front, 53% rear
Weight/power ratio 2.7 kg/CV

Performance
Maximum speed 335 km/h
0-100 km/h 3.7 sec
Fuel consumption and emissions (ECE+EUDC)
Fuel consumption 15.4 l/100 km
Emissions 360 g/km

2012 Audi A3 E-Tron Concept Quality Performance

The Audi A3 e-tron concept design represents the typical Audi language of sporty elegance. The single-frame grille is integrated into the front end, giving it a sculptured look. Its frame is made of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP), and the transversely mounted, three-dimensional aluminum louvers create a visual effect that emphasizes the showcar�s width. The headlights merge with the beveled upper corners of the single-frame, forming a transition that marks the starting point of the prominently accentuated lines of the engine hood.

The A3 E-Tron Concept headlights represent a new stage of evolution in LED technology, a groundbreaking innovation from Audi. They become broader as they extend outward, and a line underneath makes them seem to float on air. Above the front spoiler is a full-length air intake, also made of CFRP, framed by a metal clasp. The spoiler features a splitter that increases the downforce on the front wheels. The intelligent interplay between surfaces and lines also defines the tail end of the A3 e-tron concept. The broad, flat tail lights are sculptured and culminate in a point on the inside, and the tailgate bears an elegant spoiler edge.

2012 Audi A3 E-Tron Concept

The rear apron includes a diffuser insert of CFRP and metal, which in turn surrounds the two large tailpipes for the exhaust system. Working together, the gasoline engine and electric motor accelerate the notchback to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 6.8 seconds, then on to 231 km/h (143.54 mph). A regulated oil pump, the intelligent Audi thermal management system, a start-stop system and an energy recovery system technologies from the brand�s modular efficiency platform all contribute to this high efficiency.

2012 Audi A3 E-Tron Concept

At the heart of the A3 e-tron concept are the lithium-ion batteries located behind the rear seats. A3 E-Tron Concept With a charge capacity of 12 kWh, they give the notchback a range of up to 54 km (34 miles) on electric power alone. The batteries are charged by the standard energy recovery system when the car is in motion or directly from a household power socket when it is parked. This means that in most cases, the car is entirely emission-free in city driving. The front suspension a MacPherson construction with a separate axle support has a track measuring a full 1,572 millimeters (61.89 in). The rack-and-pinion steering is extremely efficient because its electromechanical drive system requires no energy when driving straight ahead.

2012 Audi A3 E-Tron Concept

The audi A3 E-Tron Concept four-link rear suspension with its 1,542-millimeter (60.71-in) track is likewise fixed to a subframe. Its control arms made of high-strength steel enable the suspension to absorb longitudinal and lateral forces separately. The shock absorbers and coil springs are mounted separately from each other.

Pagani Huayra

Pagani says the Huayra will be sold in the U.S. in 2013

As you may know already, NHTSA said yesterday that the $1.1 million Pagani Huayra supercar can�t be sold to the U.S. due to the fact that the vehicle doesn�t have advanced airbags. It appears that this decision was quite annoying for Horacio Pagani, founder of the Pagani company, who decided to explain the situation. According to the official Pagani letter brought by GTSpirit, Horacio said that his company created a safe supercar.

According to the press release, the Pagani Huayra features center tub in carbo-titanium, as well as an intelligent fuel system that behaves in a precise fashion during a crash. Moreover, a significant investment was made when the company was studying how the subframes would behave in a side crash, especially the rear subframe. According to the manufacturer, the car detaches from the carbon safety cell, dissipating kinetic energy by getting rid of over 400kg of the weight to which the occupants are attached at that moment.

What is really interesting is that Pagani said that the integration of advanced airbags are in its plans and that the airbag components found on the Huayra are already compatible with advanced airbag management (airbag, advanced belt retainer, steering column). Moreover, cars such as Bugatti, Lamborghini, Ferrari, Koenigsegg and Spyker don�t feature advanced airbags, and are already on U.S. streets, so why not give Huayra a chance? Regarding he debut on the U.S. roads, it appears that the Pagani Huayra will start deliveries in early 2013.

�Friday the 29th of July, we received from NHTSA the denial of our petition (Five days prior to our first US event and about three years after it was requested). This news spread like wildfire. Fortunately, however, over the last months, after having not heard anything from the authorities, we sped up the development of the advanced system with a large number of simulation runs and tests.� said the official letter.[via - 4wheelsnews]

Photo : Pagani Huayra

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

2012 Honda Civic Sedan Weight Saving Technologies

The ninth-generation 2012 Civic introduces a sleeker style and higher fuel-efficiency than the previous generation. The Civic range consists of sedans and coupes powered by conventional gasoline, high-performance, hybrid, and compressed natural gas engine choices. Technology and features new to the Civic include an available "intelligent" Multi-Information Display (i-MID), an available Eco Assist� system and a new Motion-Adaptive Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system that works in conjunction with Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA; VSA and EPS are included as standard equipment on all models. All Civic models achieve higher EPA fuel economy ratings1 compared to the 2011 models, up by as much as 8 percent on the highway in Civic Sedans and Coupes equipped with automatic transmissions.
For 2012 Honda Civic Sedan, the Navi system includes FM traffic, a subscription-free service that alerts you to traffic conditions (available on EX and above). The available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with voice recognition guides you to your destinations. The Civic offers the brisk performance of a 140-hp, 1.8-liter, 16-valve, SOHC i-VTEC engine that has been refined for 2012 with many friction-reducing and airflow improvements. Weight-saving technologies, improved aerodynamics and engine modifications result in a new Civic with some impressive new EPA ratings. The 2012 Civic Sedan now achieves 28 city/39 highway mpg. Plus, increased structural rigidity makes for more responsive handling.

2012 Honda Civic Sedan

The new Civic has new tricks, not the least being the new intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) (LX and above). The intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) quickly communicates vital info such as fuel consumption, as well as Bluetooth HandsFreeLink and turn-by-turn directions for models equipped with available navigation system.

2012 Honda Civic Sedan

The Civic LX features a 160-watt audio system with 4 speakers, while the EX model and up offers a 6-speaker system. A USB Audio Interface plays your tunes while it keeps your portable music device fully charged (LX and up). The USB Audio Interface is used for direct connection to and control of some current digital audio players and other USB devices that contain MP3, WMA or AAC music files. Some USB devices with security software and digital rights-protected files may not work.

2012 Ferrari 599 HY-KERS SuperCar Technologie

Ferrari have made Green the new Red for the 2011 Geneva Motor Show and performance green was the name of the game at the show. With Porsche and Lotus also showing off hy-performance hybrids the dread that surrounded the greening of the SuperCar sector with the introduction electrics to the power mix can be safely put to bed. These are exciting cars.

Whereas many people were in fear that hybrid technologies would see performance compromise in the name of �efficiency� the truth of where the exotic car builders are going is far more exciting. Traditionally we have seen Nitrous, Turbos and Superchargers as the extra power injectors, now have to start thinking of capacitors, batteries and motors. Nitrous is dead for the new age Hot Rodders, Lx is here to stay and itself will be combined with induction and exhaust chargers for internal combustion power in an explosion of technology that will make the shrinking of mobile telephone batteries look like it took forever.

2012 Ferrari 599 HY-KERS

Ferrari�s first toe-in the water of the Hybrid pool comes in the form of the 599 HY-KERS, a road going version of their Kinetic Energy Recovery System - or regenerative braking system used in the past seasons F1 car. The Ferrari HY-KERS system sees a 40kg electric motor and generator fitted in line with the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and mounted below the car�s center of gravity. This motor cuts in during acceleration and provides over 100 additional hp plus instant torque from standstill and during overtaking. Under braking the electric drive unit acts as a generator, using the kinetic energy generated to recharge the batteries. The torque delivery is controlled automatically via the onboard computer using grip, gear selection and accelerator pedal angle to dictate requirements. The system can also function as a full-electric drivetrain for around town driving.

2012 Ferrari 599 HY-KERS

The electric motor features a unique cooling and lubrication system to provide efficiency under all operating temperatures and loads. The castings for the motor are made in the Ferrari foundry and are complete with Prancing Horse logo. The system weighs just 40 kg, which is partially offset by the fact that the starter motor and conventional battery become redundant.

A paramount objective for Ferrari was to maintain the balance, handling and performance characteristics of the impressive 599GTB. This was achieved by positioning all the components of the HY-KERS system below the centre of gravity, the flat lithium-ion batteries are positioned below the floorpan of the car inside the aerodynamic underbody. In fact the CoG has actually been lowered from the standard car. Also interior and luggage space has been unaffected.

Ferrari 599 HY-KERS Specifications
Year 2010
Production 1 - rolling test bed

ENGINE
Configuration 60� V12
Layout Front-mid Longitudinal - plus in-line Lx Motor
Induction Natural
Valvetrain DOHC, 4 Valves
Fuel feed Direct Fuel Injection
Displacement 5999 cc
Power 620 hp @ 7600 rpm
plus 100 hp Lx Motor
Torque 448 lb-ft @ 5800rpm

BODY
Aluminum body over Aluminum chassis
Weight 3722 lb dry
Length 183.7 in
Width 77.2 in
Height 52.6 in
Wheelbase 108.3 in
Front track 66.5 in
Rear track 63.7 in

DRIVE
Rear Wheel Drive
Transmission 7-speed transaxle with inline motor, paddle shift - F1-Trac stability and traction control

SUSPENSION
Front Double Wishbones -magnetorheological dampers.
Rear Double Wishbones magnetorheological dampers.

WHEELS / TYRES / BRAKES
3 piece 20� modular forged spoke wheels
Front tyres 245/40 ZR 20
Rear tyres 305/35 ZR 20
Front brakes 15.7 inch carbon ceramic with 6 pistons calipers
Rear brakes 14.2 inch carbon ceramic with 6 pistons calipers
Steering Rack & Pinion w/Power Assist

PERFORMANCE
Top speed 205 mph
0 - 100 kph 3.? seconds

2012 Mercedes-Benz C Class Best Sport Sedan

2012 Mercedes-Benz C300 and 2012 Mercedes-Benz C350

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C350 Luxury Sedan continues the evolution of a landmark vehicle designed to deliver the signature Mercedes-Benz blend of safety, agility and comfort in an incomparable compact luxury sedan. Well-defined muscle with meticulous detail, the 2012 C350 Sport Sedan combines aggressive sport styling and adrenaline-pumping performance with an amenity-rich cabin to give driving enthusiasts cause to celebrate.

Delivering 228 horsepower, the 3.0 liter 24-valve dual overhead cam (DOHC) V-6 in the C300 features variable intake and exhaust valve timing, with continually variable adjustment of all four cams for smooth idling, rich midrange torque, and high-rpm punch. An innovative intake system varies the path and flow rate of incoming air. These features make this engine incredibly flexible, allowing it to provide more than 85 percent of its 221 lb-ft of peak torque from as low as 1,500 rpm while still supplying an invigorating redline rush. Smooth response starts off the line, with the C300 whisking from 0 to 60 mph in just 7.1 seconds.

2012 Mercedes-Benz C Class

2012 Mercedes-Benz C Class C350

The Mercedes-Benz C350 industry's first 7-speed automatic transmission remains one of the most versatile automatics on the market. A wider range of closely spaced gear ratios delivers the ideal response for virtually every driving condition, which means smoother cruising, immediate acceleration, and thanks to two overdrive ratios, improved highway fuel efficiency, too. Its driver-adaptive programming monitors your driving style and adjusts its shift points to match.

Mercedes-Benz C300 brake Assist senses emergency braking via the speed at which the driver presses the brake pedal and immediately applies maximum available power boost. Brake Assist can potentially reduce the overall stopping distance by eliminating the delay caused by a common human tendency not to brake hard enough, soon enough. Letting up on the brake pedal releases Brake Assist. The Antilock Braking System (ABS), an industry landmark pioneered by Mercedes-Benz in 1978, senses impending wheel lockup under heavy braking and pumps the front brakes individually or the rear brakes together. This intelligent system can pump the brakes as needed up to 30 times per second, to prevent lockup and preserve the driver's steering ability.

2012 Mercedes-Benz C Class C300

2012 Mercedes-Benz C Class

C350 and C300 with using GPS technology and a 40GB hard drive to store maps, points of interest and even Zagat Survey ratings for restaurants, hotels and golf courses, this virtual copilot provides detailed driving directions with remarkable speed and a friendly voice. Simply enter your destination, and the COMAND system's 7-inch color-LCD screen will display your route, as well as gas stations, ATMs and Mercedes-Benz dealerships along the way. Data for the contiguous U.S., Canada and Oahu, Hawaii come standard, with periodic updates available at your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer. You can also rely on SIRIUS Traffic to provide the very latest information on accidents, traffic flow, construction, and road closures. SIRIUS Traffic is also integrated with your vehicle's navigation system, with a Dynamic Route function that can automatically determine the fastest route to your destination based on real-time traffic conditions.

2012 Mercedes-Benz C Class C300

C-class C300 and C350 Audio system Feature mounted in the glovebox, the iPod/MP3 media interface turns your Mercedes-Benz into an extension of your iPod or compatible electronic device. Browse, select and play your musical accompaniment of choice using steering-wheel, COMAND-system or stereo controls. Specifically engineered for the C-Class C350, this premium digital sound system fills the cabin with 450 watts of beautifully balanced audio. No fewer than 12 strategically placed speakers including the rich bass of a subwoofer deliver a wholly immersive listening experience through LOGIC7 digital surround sound technology. Digital Dynamic Volume Control impeccably and imperceptibly maintains the sound spectrum for consistent listening pleasure in varying driving conditions. On models with the Multimedia Package, Dolby Digital 5.1 discrete surround sound lets you enjoy audio and video DVDs in their full multichannel glory.

2012 Ferrari 599 HY-KERS SuperCar Technologie

2012 Ferrari 599 HY-KERS

The electric motor features a unique cooling and lubrication system to provide efficiency under all operating temperatures and loads. The castings for the motor are made in the Ferrari foundry and are complete with Prancing Horse logo. The system weighs just 40 kg, which is partially offset by the fact that the starter motor and conventional battery become redundant.

A paramount objective for Ferrari was to maintain the balance, handling and performance characteristics of the impressive 599GTB. This was achieved by positioning all the components of the HY-KERS system below the centre of gravity, the flat lithium-ion batteries are positioned below the floorpan of the car inside the aerodynamic underbody. In fact the CoG has actually been lowered from the standard car. Also interior and luggage space has been unaffected.

Ferrari 599 HY-KERS Specifications

Year 2010

Production 1 - rolling test bed

ENGINE

Configuration 60� V12

Layout Front-mid Longitudinal - plus in-line Lx Motor

Induction Natural

Valvetrain DOHC, 4 Valves

Fuel feed Direct Fuel Injection

Displacement 5999 cc

Power 620 hp @ 7600 rpm

plus 100 hp Lx Motor

Torque 448 lb-ft @ 5800rpm

BODY

Aluminum body over Aluminum chassis

Weight 3722 lb dry

Length 183.7 in

Width 77.2 in

Height 52.6 in

Wheelbase 108.3 in

Front track 66.5 in

Rear track 63.7 in

DRIVE

Rear Wheel Drive

Transmission 7-speed transaxle with inline motor, paddle shift - F1-Trac stability and traction control

SUSPENSION

Front Double Wishbones -magnetorheological dampers.

Rear Double Wishbones magnetorheological dampers.

WHEELS / TYRES / BRAKES

3 piece 20� modular forged spoke wheels

Front tyres 245/40 ZR 20

Rear tyres 305/35 ZR 20

Front brakes 15.7 inch carbon ceramic with 6 pistons calipers

Rear brakes 14.2 inch carbon ceramic with 6 pistons calipers

Steering Rack & Pinion w/Power Assist

PERFORMANCE

Top speed 205 mph

0 - 100 kph 3.? seconds

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

BMW M3 CSL

The BMW M3 CSL was the M3 in its purest form. A car reduced to the pure driving essentials. This meant consistent reduction of weight by using the most appropriate materials at the right point. Carbon-fiber -reinforced plastic, one of the most important materials in Formula 1, for
example, not only reduces the overall weight of the car (weighing approximately 243 lbs less than the standard M3, the BMW M3 CSL has an overall weight of just 3,054 lbs), but also allows even higher speeds in bends particularly through the use of this lightweight material at the extreme ends of the car.
Focusing on their quest to reduce weight, the engineers at BMW M3 CSL took a close look at virtually every component of the BMW M3 CSL, in each case using the most suitable materials in order to save weight. As a result, the BMW M3 CSL even comes with glass-fiber plastics otherwise used for aerospace applications such as endless-glass-fibre thermoplastics serving as the structural material for the through-loading system and on the rear bumper supports.

BMW M3 CSL

The BMW M3 CSL's significant increase in power and performance is however not only the result of intelligent lightweight engineering. Rather, the straight-six power unit already renowned for its high engine speeds has been enhanced to an even higher standard, BMW M3 CSL�s engineers boosting maximum output to 360 bhp at 7,900 rpm from 3.2 liters capacity, that is a sensational output- per-liter figure of 111 bhp. Maximum torque, in turn, is 273 lb-ft at 4,900 rpm.
Wider front track and modified suspension geometry give the BMW M3 CSL a standard of dynamic driving performance otherwise only a thoroughbred racing car is able to offer. BMW M3 CSL modifications include specially made springs and dampers as well as the car�s newly aligned steering for supreme, cutting-edge handling. The brakes have also been modified for even more stopping power and faster deceleration, allowing the BMW M3 CSL to reach a standstill from 60 mph in less than 34 meters. And for special purposes on the race track, the car is also available with sports brake linings.

BMW M3 CSL

Inside, the BMW M3 CSL aga in follows the concept of supreme function and minimum weight wherever it makes sense. Reflecting the purist standard of motorsport, the car does without electric seat heating or a navigation system, and both the radio and air conditioning are only available as an option. A special feature on the clear-cut dashboard is the CFP covers on top, the centre console, door and side linings also being made of the same material.