Car Motor Sport

RPMGO Car Blog

2011-07-06T05:05:00.001-07:00

RPMGO Car Blog

UK Road Deaths Reach Lowest Level In History
Chevrolet Volt, Priced From 28,545 Pounds
Holden Brings Six Cars To AIMS
Ford Focus Estate Gets 2,000 Pre-orders In UK
E-Wolf ALPHA 1 SRF Hits The Nurburgring
SAAB Secures Deal, New Models To Come
Spy Shots – Next-gen Porsche Cayman
Exagon Furtive e-GT, On Sale In Late 2012
Alfa Romeo Freshens Up MiTo
Range Rover Evoque Production Kicks Off

UK Road Deaths Reach Lowest Level In History

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 11:00 PM PDT

We have extremely good news coming from the UK Department of Transport. It seems that the number of people who were killed last year in road accidents dropped by 16% from 2222 casualties to 1857, which is the lowest rate ever recorded since 1926.

There were 842 less casualties last year, which is 20% lower than in 2009. As far as motorcyclists are concerned, 403 people died last year, 15% less than in 2009 while the number of pedestrians that perished was 405, 19% less than in 2009.

The bad news is that the number of casualties among cyclists went up by 7% to 111 people, despite the fact that the cyclist traffic went up by only 0.5%.

Overall, a total of 208,655 people were considered to be casualties in road accidents last year in United Kingdom.

Source: Autocar.co.uk

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UK Road Deaths Reach Lowest Level In History

Chevrolet Volt, Priced From 28,545 Pounds

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 10:30 PM PDT

2011 Chevrolet Volt

If you live in United Kingdom and want to get your hands on the Chevrolet Volt, prepare to pay at least 28,454 pounds. The car will arrive at the dealerships in the beginning of next year. The announcement was made at the 2011 edition of the Goodwood Festival of Speed and the price tag includes the 5,000 pounds government grant that was created in order to increase the sales of green cars.

As you probably already know, the Chevrolet Volt has an electric driving range of up to 50 miles and after that, the 4-cylinder 1.4-liter gasoline engine kicks in and starts powering the vehicle. The automaker did not offer other details regarding the car but mentioned that all right-hand variants will come as standard with a leather interior cabin.

In other news, Chevy confirmed that the Camaro Convertible will hit the showrooms in United Kingdom in early 2012 and it will have a starting price of 34,995 pounds. Opting for the entry-level model will get you the one powered by a V8 6.2-liter engine that produces 426 hp. The North American automaker said that the suspension of the Camaro will be fine-tuned for the roads in UK.

Source: Chevrolet via Autocar.co.uk

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Chevrolet Volt, Priced From 28,545 Pounds

Holden Brings Six Cars To AIMS

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 10:00 PM PDT

Holden ClubSport R8 SV Black Edition

At this year's edition of the Australian International Motor Show (AIMS), the local automaker Holden has brought several interesting models. One of these models is the Holden Colorado concept which sits on 20-inch alloys and features LED lightning units. This rebadged Chevrolet Colorado features aggressive styling and the production model is expected to debut sometime next year.

The Holden Cruze hatchback concept is a revision of the Chevrolet Cruze hatchback concept that made its official debut at last year's Paris Motor Show. The production version of this concept will be unveiled later on this year and it will be produced in Australia.

The Holden version of the Chevrolet Aveo / Sonic is named Barina and it will go on sale this October with a 4-cylinder 1.6-liter gasoline engine that will be linked to either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

Also at the 2011 AIMS, Holden unveiled the Maloo R8, Clubsport R8 and the Clubsport R8 Tourer SV Black Editions which all come with a ventilated hood, matte black accents, bespoke 20-inch alloys and a sport-tuned suspension. Inside the cabin, these cars feature a revised trim, leather seats and have an individually-numbered plaque.

Under the hood of these R8s rests a powerful V8 6.2-liter engine that produces 425 hp (431 PS / 317 kW) and has a peak torque 406 lb.-ft (550 Nm). This huge engine is mated as standard with a 6-speed manual gearbox but as an optional feature it can be linked to a 6-speed automatic.

These SV Black Editions will hit the dealerships this September and Holden will make only 100 units of each, except for the ClubSport R8 Tourer which will be made in only 25 units.

Source: Holden via WCF

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Holden Brings Six Cars To AIMS

Ford Focus Estate Gets 2,000 Pre-orders In UK

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 09:30 PM PDT

Ford Focus Estate

It looks like the estate version of the new generation of the Ford Focus is already a major hit in United Kingdom as the automaker said that it has already 2,000 pre-orders. The company says that the outgoing estate version of the Focus accounted for 12.5% of sales since its debut in 1998 while the new one should fetch about 18%.

The estate model is 200 mm longer and 100 mm wider in comparison to its hatchback sibling and has a load capacity of up to 1502 liters, which is a lot more than the 1148 liters offered by the outgoing generation. The car is powered by the same engines as the hatchback, including the eco-friendly 1.6-liter TDCi diesel engine that emits only 109 g/km, which accounts for 43% of the UK sales.

The base price for the Ford Focus estate is 17,100 pounds which comes with torque vectoring control, aluminum roof rails and Bluetooth. Ford says that the new Focus estate will be offered with more than 1,000 pounds of additional standard equipment compared to the equivalent outgoing version.

Source: Ford via Autocar.co.uk

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Ford Focus Estate Gets 2,000 Pre-orders In UK

E-Wolf ALPHA 1 SRF Hits The Nurburgring

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 09:00 PM PDT

E-Wolf ALPHA 1 SRF

At the moment, the fastest electric car on the Nurburgring Nordschleife track is the radical Peugeot EX1 Concept who managed to finish a lap in 9 minutes and 1.338 seconds. A serious contender for the French green supercar would have to be the E-Wolf ALPHA 1 SRF. The guys over at WCF have managed to grab a few spy shots with the EV while doing some high speed testing.

E-Wolf ALPHA 1 SRF

The car was announced back in September last year and it uses lithium-ion flat cells that weigh only 772 lbs (350 kg) and makes 41.5 kWh to power the two high-performance electric motors that develop 375 hp (380 PS / 280 kW) and 590 lb.-ft (800 Nm) of torque.

E-Wolf ALPHA 1 SRF

The Alpha 1 SRF (Silent Radical Force) uses the body of a Radical SR8 and managed to hit 62 mph from start in only 3.9 seconds, before reaching a top speed of 143 mph (230 km/h). The green supercar tips the scale at 2138 lbs (970 kg) and promises to have a driving range of up to 186 miles (300 km). It takes about 8 hours in order to fill up the batteries of the car. If you want to get a driving range of about 249 miles (400 km), the car must be driven at a constant speed of 50 km/h.

WCF says that the driver behind the wheel of the Alpha 1 SRF was Jochen Krumbach, who is a well-known Porsche driver in the demanding VLN long distance races that are organized on Nurburgring. Most likely, the record of the aforementioned Peugeot EX1 Concept will go down in the next few days.

If you want to buy the E-Wolf supercar, prepare to say goodbye to 215,000 Euros (plus VAT).

Source: WCF

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E-Wolf ALPHA 1 SRF Hits The Nurburgring

SAAB Secures Deal, New Models To Come

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 02:00 PM PDT

2011 SAAB 9-5

We have some good news from SAAB as they finally manage to get out of the financial mess that they were into. The European Investment Bank approved the company's sale of 50.1% of its property to a consortium of real estate investors from Sweden. More than that, SAAB signed a binding agreement with Youngman, a Chinese (of course) automaker for developing three new models: a new entry-level model (9-1), a large SUV (9-6x) and the large executive sedan (9-7).

Youngman, along with Pang Da who is the Chinese distributor and dealer network, are going to invest 221 million pounds in this deal which will see these three new models designed, engineered and developed at SAAB's HQ in Trollhattan, Sweden. These cars are going to be manufactured in China by Youngman, but this deal isn't yet set in stone as it needs the "regulatory approvals" both in Europe and China.

The aforementioned 9-6 large SUV and the 9-7 executive sedan are going to be based on SAAB's brand new Phoenix platform that insiders say that it can be stretched up to 5.4 meters in length.

So it looks like the Swedish automaker's bad days are finally over and there's a bright future right around the corner. I'm eager to see how that new 9-7 model will look like as I've always had a crush for SAAB and a large executive sedan has tremendous potential.

Source: SAAB via Autocar.co.uk

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SAAB Secures Deal, New Models To Come

Spy Shots – Next-gen Porsche Cayman

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 01:00 PM PDT

Next-gen Porsche Cayman

Our esteemed colleagues from Autocar.co.uk have managed to take a couple of spy shots with the upcoming new generation of the sexy Porsche Cayman, the only car I'd buy from the German company if I had to. The prototype you see in these pictures was undergoing some heavy testing at the Nurburgring track.

Next-gen Porsche Cayman

It is expected to be powered by updated versions of the 6-cylinder 2.9- and 3.4-liter engines, which will deliver about 280 hp in the 2.9-liter unit and 330 hp for the bigger 3.4-liter power plant. Aside from these updates, the new Cayman will also get an electro-mechanical steering system as well as a stop/start system to reduce the CO2 emissions and increase fuel efficiency. Later on, Porsche will offer the Cayman with an all-new 4-cyilinder 2.0-liter engine, the one which will go into the 2014 sub-Boxster roadster.

Next-gen Porsche Cayman

The new Cayman will be officially launched together with the third generation of the Boxster. Porsche says that all the panels in both the Cayman and Boxster will be entirely new and the fabric roof for the latter will also be new. Needless to say, these panels are going to be lighter in order to reduce the curb weight of the cars. Both models will get a longer wheelbase, measuring almost 4.4 meters which translates into more luggage and passenger space.

The current generations of the Boxster and the Cayman are manufactured in partnership with Velvet Automotive, located in Finland while the new ones are going to be built home at Stuttgart as this partnership will end soon.

Source: Autocar.co.uk

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Spy Shots – Next-gen Porsche Cayman

Exagon Furtive e-GT, On Sale In Late 2012

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 12:19 PM PDT

Exagon Furtive e-GT

This has to be one of the most beautiful cars I've seen in the last few months. I'm talking about this Exagon Furtive e-GT, which is an all-new EV sports coupe that is scheduled to go on sale in late 2012. The company that develops this model exhibited a validation prototype at the famous Magny Cours race track in France. Behind the wheel of this beauty was Nicolas Prost, son of 4-time world champion Alain Prost.

Exagon Furtive e-GT

The company plans on rolling out 100 units per year and it will be offered in two variants. The regular one will be powered by two electric motors while the more complex version is going to have a combustion engine range extender that works just about the same as the one we saw in the Chevrolet Volt.

Exagon Furtive e-GT

The standard variant of the vehicle packs two Siemens-sourced electric motors that each generate 125 kW, for a combined power output of 340 hp between 5,000 – 10,000 rpm and a constant torque of 354 lb.-ft (480 Nm). All this electric power is stored in the 50 kWh lithium-ion batteries that should have a lifespan of about 10 years and 3,000 recharge cycles. The company says that this very sexy 2+2 coupe is going to have a driving range between 122 miles and 250 miles (197 km to 402 km).

Exagon Furtive e-GT

With the aforementioned range extender, the range of the Exagon Furtive e-GT expands to about 500 miles (807 km). The car is expected to do the 0-62 mph sprint in only 3.5 seconds and will be able to hit a top speed of 178 mph (287 km/h), but the production version will be limited to "only" 155 mph (250 km/h).

Source: Exagon via Carscoop

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Exagon Furtive e-GT, On Sale In Late 2012

Alfa Romeo Freshens Up MiTo

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 12:00 PM PDT

Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio

The Italian car manufacturer Alfa Romeo has announced a couple of days ago that the top-spec MiTo Quadrifoglio will be receiving a couple of cosmetic upgrades when it will go on sale at the end of this month at a base price of 18,755 pounds.

Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio

They've made some mild modifications to the headlight surrounds and the wing mirror which now are finished in a pearlescent effect material. Above the car's front wheel arches are now Quadrifoglio Verde badges and it also got a brand new set of 17- or 18-inch rims. MiTo's lower air intakes have been enhanced by the new surrounds of the fog lights which look similar to the ones you'll find in the hot 8C Competizione model.

The Sabelt sport seats are wrapped around in Alcantara suede and trimmed in leather and are backed with carbon fiber in order shave off a few pounds. The same carbon fiber theme was applied by Alfa to the dashboard of the MiTo.

Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio

Those who choose this model will get as standard a lot more equipment than before, like cruise control, Bluetooth, rear spoiler, rear parking sensors, chrome exhaust pipe, aluminum sports pedals and kickplates.

The Alfa Romeo MiTo in the Quadrifoglio trim is powered by the same engine as before, which is a 1.4-liter TB MultiAir unit that generates 168 hp and can do the 0-62 mph sprint in approximately 7 seconds.

Source: Alfa Romeo via Autocar.co.uk

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Alfa Romeo Freshens Up MiTo

Range Rover Evoque Production Kicks Off

Posted: 05 Jul 2011 11:30 AM PDT

Range Rover Evoque

I'm not a big fan of crossovers or SUVs but I've always had a soft spot for the Range Rover Evoque ever since Land Rover revealed the first official photos. This week, the very first unit of this model rolled of Jaguar Land Rover's Halewood plant on Merseyside. It is a 5-door model with the Dynamic trim level that has a white exterior finish. Just like all other new Jaguar Land Rover products, this one is going to be donated to the Heritage Motor Center Museum, located in Gaydon.

The Range Rover Evoque is going to be built alongside with the Freelander model. Land Rover doubled the staff at the plant by hiring 1,500 new employees in order to produce the Evoque. The British automaker is going to pump 2 million pounds in UK's economy with no less than 40 contracts that were handed out to local supply companies.

In its homeland, Ranger Rover believes that customers will choose in equal amount the 3- and 5-door version, but for the global market it is expected that the 5-door model will be bought by approximately 2/3 of the clients.

The first 15,000-20,000 units of the Evoque are going to be manufactured before the customer-specific models so that the suppliers will benefit from an initial stability of orders. Land Rover stated that about 50% of clients will be women and the average age of the buyers will be between 30 and 40 years.

The entry-level, 2WD diesel fitted with the manual gearbox costs from 27,955 pounds and it will reach the showrooms in United Kingdom this September, but you already can make a preorder. It is going to be available in three different trim levels: Pure, Prestige and the top-spec Dynamic. Customers will be able to choose from one of the following three engines: a 2.2-liter turbodiesel unit that produces 148 hp or 187 hp, along with a more powerful turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine that churns out 236 hp.

Source: Range Rover via Autocar.co.uk

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Range Rover Evoque Production Kicks Off

RPMGO Car Blog

2011-07-05T05:20:00.001-07:00

RPMGO Car Blog

Germany Gets Mazda MX-5 Karai Special Edition
Edo Competition M5 Dark Edition Unleashed
Ford Performance Vehicle Concept Goes Official
Volvo Unwraps S60 Performance Project
SuperTooth HD – the new Bluetooth Speakerphone on the market
BMW 6-Series Gets Individual And M-Package
Range Rover Evoque U.S. Pricing Announced
Joss JP1, First Official Images

Germany Gets Mazda MX-5 Karai Special Edition

Posted: 04 Jul 2011 03:00 PM PDT

Mazda MX-5 Karai

In what seems to be an endless string of special editions, Mazda has revealed another limited-run MX-5 Miata, this one is called Karai (which is the Japanese word for "sharp") and it will be made in only 165 units which will all go to Germany this time.

Mazda MX-5 Karai

Based on the MX-5 Roadster coupe, this one has a retractable hardtop and comes with an exclusive lime-green paint that Mazda calls "Metal Green Metallic", while the metal top has a glossy black finish, just as the exterior mirrors, the fog lamp surrounds, the front grille and the 17-inch alloys.

Mazda MX-5 Karai

The inside of this special MX-5 features a pair of Recaro sport seats that are wrapped around in Alcantara and black leather, along with white stitching. It also sports a leather steering wheel, aluminum pedals and all of the interior trim pieces which on the regular model have a silver finish now come in a glossy black color.

Mazda MX-5 Karai

The car is powered by a standard 4-cylinder, 2.0-liter gasoline engine that develops 160 hp. The Japanese automaker also offers an optional sport package that consists of a new exhaust system, along with a lowering kit for the Miata's suspension and other equipment like USB and iPod adapter and a pair of floor mats that are not available on the standard MX-5.

Mazda MX-5 Karai

The base price for the Mazda MX-5 Karai is $43,500.

Source: Mazda via Carscoop

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Germany Gets Mazda MX-5 Karai Special Edition

Edo Competition M5 Dark Edition Unleashed

Posted: 04 Jul 2011 01:00 PM PDT

Edo Competition BMW M5 Touring Dark Edition

The German tunes over at Edo Competition have revealed their tuning program for the BMW M5 Touring. Known to develop aftermarket upgrades for exotic supercars, this time they took probably the most practical high performance vehicle out there and squeezed more hp from the power unit.

Edo Competition BMW M5 Touring Dark Edition

Dubbed the M5 Dark Edition, the V10 5.0-liter of the standard model has been modified and it now produces 542 hp (555 PS / 405 kW), which is considerably more than the regular 493 hp (500 PS / 368 kW). They managed to offer this power increase by recalibrating the ECU, installing new sport catalysts, sports air filter as well as a custom-made sports exhaust system. Aside from the increase in horsepower, the maximum torque is also up from 521 to 560 Nm.

Edo Competition BMW M5 Touring Dark Edition

While the standard M5 Touring has a limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h), this tuned version will go all the way up to 190 mph (305 km/h). The 0-62 mph sprint is done in 4.2 seconds (0.5 quicker than before) while 0-124 mph takes less than ten seconds.

Edo Competition BMW M5 Touring Dark Edition

Design-wise, Edo Competition revised both the front and rear fascias and added a brand new spoiler out in the back. The M5 Touring now sits on 20-inch alloys which are wrapped around in Dunlop tires that measure 255/35 R20 in the front and 285/30 R20 for the back wheels.

Source: Edo Competition via WCF

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Edo Competition M5 Dark Edition Unleashed

Ford Performance Vehicle Concept Goes Official

Posted: 04 Jul 2011 11:14 AM PDT

FPV GT Concept

At this year's edition of the Australian International Motor Show (AIMS), Ford Performance Vehicles has revealed its very first concept in the division's history. This FPV GT is powered by the V8 5.0-liter Boss engine that outputs 449 hp (455 PS / 335 kW) and has a peak torque of 420 lb.-ft (570 Nm).

The car rides on lightweight alloy wheels that measure 19×8-inch in the front while the ones in the back measure 19×9.5-inch. These rims are wrapped around in Dunlop SP Sportmaxx GT tires. The concept also features 6-piston (front) and 4-piston (back) brake calipers which are painted in black, just like the wheels.

Source: Ford Performance Vehicles via WCF

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Ford Performance Vehicle Concept Goes Official

Volvo Unwraps S60 Performance Project

Posted: 04 Jul 2011 11:07 AM PDT

Volvo S60 Performance Project

The Swedish automaker Volvo has created a partnership with Polestar and Heico in order to create this one-off S60 Performance Project. The car is based on the T6 R-Design and comes with a sport exhaust system and sits on 19-inch Heico rims wrapped around Pirelli rubber.

Volvo S60 Performance Project

The engineers from Polestar installed an updated ECU that allows the 3.0-liter turbocharged engine to develop 325 hp (330 PS / 242 kW) and a peak torque of 354 lb.-ft (480 Nm), which is 25 hp (25 PS / 18 kW) and 29 lb.-ft (40 Nm) more than the standard version.

Volvo S60 Performance Project

The soon-to-be-released 2012 Volvo S60 R-Design is going to feature a revised 6-cylinder power unit which will produce 325 hp and 354 lb.-ft, exactly the same as this Performance Project so think of the latter as a preview or something…

Volvo S60 Performance Project

Source: Volvo via WCF

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Volvo Unwraps S60 Performance Project

SuperTooth HD – the new Bluetooth Speakerphone on the market

Posted: 04 Jul 2011 08:02 AM PDT

The future of Bluetooth speakerphones seems to have already come: SuperTooth has created a model of speakerphones considered to be the most advance in the market. The arguments for that are quite a few:
- Compared with the other existing models, the SuperTooth HD has three times the power.
- It can be used for communication across social media networks by voice commands (the system decodes voice signals from non-native English speakers, too).
- It features twin speaker V Array technology – which is essential for the high-fidelity audio emissions.
- It uses built-in dual microphones, which are able to pick up voice clearly, combined with an anti echo and DSP control for noise cancellation.
- Advanced voice commands, which allows drivers to take incoming phone calls, dial phone numbers, check the battery and retrieve voicemail – all performed hands-free.
- SuperTooth Handsfree Assistant (powered by Dial2Do) – it's a feature that gives drivers the possibility to write and send Facebook and Twitter updates, e-mails and SMS messages through voice – those texts will appear as audio files to be listened by the recipients (this feature is for free in the first 6 months, but you will be charged with at least $3.99 monthly after that).
- You have the option of reading incoming e-mails / SMS messages out loud.
- It offers A2DP audio streaming of music, podcasts and navigation from smartphones and GPS navigators.
- Multi-point technology which to help you connect up to 2 phones simultaneously.

"SuperTooth pioneered its newest Bluetooth accessory – the HD – to address the texting-while-driving epidemic which continues to be a leading cause of accidents worldwide. (…) The SuperTooth HD boasts more power, more convenience and more options for social networking than ever before. We're pleased to announce its availability in the U.S." said Yves Le Reun, Vice President of Sales & Marketing.

The cost of this "technological jewel" is of $129. It actually makes driving safer, because we all know that drivers are constantly tempted to use their mobile devices while driving and forbidding them to do this is not an option which to deliver the expected results.

So, what do you think about this speakerphone?

[Source: Maxborgesagency]

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SuperTooth HD – the new Bluetooth Speakerphone on the market

BMW 6-Series Gets Individual And M-Package

Posted: 04 Jul 2011 08:00 AM PDT

2012 BMW 6-Series with M-Package

A couple of days ago, the German automaker BMW revealed the 6-Series Individual and the 6-Series M-Package. The first one comes with bespoke alloys and wood trim, premium leather upholstery and "exclusive paint finishes."

2012 BMW 6-Series with M-Package

As far as the M-package is concerned, the 6-Series gets a new more aggressive bodykit that features updated fascias and side skirts, 19-inch rims, LED fog lights while inside the cabin there is an M steering wheel, leather & Alcantara sports seats and an updated trim.

2012 BMW 6-Series with M-Package

BMW also announced the introduction of an all-new 6-cylinder 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo diesel engine that produces 308 hp (313 PS / 230 kW) and has a peak torque of 464 lb.-ft (630 Nm), which is enough for a 0-62 mph sprint in 5.5 seconds. With this engine, which will be available starting with this fall, the 6-Series manages to average 5.4 – 5.4 liters / 100 km while CO2 emissions stand at 143 – 145 g/km.

2012 BMW 6-Series with M-Package

Also this fall, BMW will offer its xDrive all-wheel drive system for the 650i coupe and convertible models. These models come with a V8, 4.4-liter twin-turbo engine that generates 401 hp (407 PS / 300 kW) and 442 lb.-ft (600 Nm) of torque. The coupe needs 4.8 seconds to hit 62 mph from start while the convertible does it 0.1 seconds slower.

Source: BMW via WCF

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BMW 6-Series Gets Individual And M-Package

Range Rover Evoque U.S. Pricing Announced

Posted: 04 Jul 2011 07:29 AM PDT

Range Rover Evoque

The sexy 2012 Range Rover Evoque will hit the stateside dealerships this fall and you can get one for yourself if you're willing to pay at least $43,995. For this money you'll get the 5-door model which costs roughly the same as the one sold in UK. Choosing the 3-door model will set you back another $1,000.

In order to get a decent fuel economy rating from EPA, the engineers over at Land Rover put a lot of work into lowering the curb weight of the Evoque as much as possible. The crossover SUV weighs 3,680 lbs (1,680 kg) and will do 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

In United States, the Range Rover Evoque doesn't have that many competitors to battle with as the BMW X1 and the Audi Q3 are not available, at least for now.

Source: Range Rover via WCF

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Range Rover Evoque U.S. Pricing Announced

Joss JP1, First Official Images

Posted: 04 Jul 2011 07:16 AM PDT

Joss JP1

We've talked about the Joss JP1 a few times here on rpmGo and now we have a batch of official photos from the Australian supercar builder Joss Developments. They also introduced a black painted prototype in Melbourne and revealed that the car will be able to hit a top speed of 224 mph (360 km/h), which is 12 mph (20 km/h) more than their previous estimations.

Joss JP1

The Joss JP1 is powered by an aluminum V8 6.6-liter engine that produces 500 hp (507 PS / 373 kW), mated to an AMT gearbox, which should be enough for a 0-62 mph of less than three seconds and a 0-100 mph (0-160 km/h) time in only 6 seconds.

Joss JP1

When it will hit the market, only 25 units will be made and the price tag will be about $526,000.

Joss JP1

Source: Joss Developments Limited / Albins via WCF

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Joss JP1, First Official Images

RPMGO Car Blog

2011-07-02T05:29:00.001-07:00

RPMGO Car Blog

Selling Used Collector Car
Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari Heading To Goodwood
Gordon Murray Design T.27 EV Revealed
Renault Launches Clio RS 200 and Twingo RS 133 Silverstone GP
What Crisis? Bentley Increases Sales by 20%
BMW Updates 5-Series Lineup
Gridlock Eliminated with only 5 Talking Cars
Bugatti Reveals One-Off “L’or Blanc” Veyron Grand Sport
AC Schnitzer 2011 BMW X3
BMW i8 Hybrid Coupe on the Set with Tom Cruise

Selling Used Collector Car

Posted: 02 Jul 2011 03:28 AM PDT

Mercedes SL 300 Gullwing

Selling just about any type of product requires effort and planning. Unless you want to sell it ASAP to get rid of it from your garage, selling it at a fair market price will take some time. First of all, you'll need to prepare the vehicle for the actual sale.

In order to do so, you must do any mechanical work that is necessary as well as cosmetic work to make the car look better. After you've got that covered, you must detail the car inside and out. If you have any spare parts that you will give to the buyer, gather all of them in one place. Next, get all the relevant records and paperwork that will be of interest to any potential customer. After that, take high quality photos of the interior, exterior and at the engine compartment.

The process continues by setting a target price for the car. To do so, you will have to go through the price tags of other cars that are similar to yours in order to find out the real market value of the vehicle that you plan on selling. In figuring out the price, you will have to ask yourself some questions:

a) Do I need to sell the car as soon as possible?

b) Is the market of collector cars rising, sinking or holding steady?

c) Is my car popular among collectors or buyers are not really interested in such a model?

d) What is the current market value for my car?

e) What is the condition of my car?

After you've answered yourself these questions, now is time to prepare and execute your marketing plan.

First of all, you'll need to think about how you are going to sell the car. You need to choose one (or a combination) of the following selling methods:

a) dealer / broker;

b) live and online auctions;

c) print and online advertising;

d) car show or car corral.

When considering how you are going to market and advertise, think about where to advertise and which dealer/broker, website, car show, auction, etc. to choose from. You will have to prepare the suitable materials, like creating signs, writing ads and preparing an online description.

Now time has come to execute your marketing/advertising plan by placing ads, submitting online listings and signing dealer consignment or auction forms.

When choosing the media to offer you car the much needed exposure, take into consideration the following:

a) news – local, regional and national;

b) online – www.autotrader.com, www.hemmings.com as well as marquee-specific websites;

c) classified publications – AutoTrader, Hemmings Motor News, Old Cars Weekly, etc;

d) newsletters – specialty publications, local & national clubs;

e) magazines that have classified sections – Robb Report, Sports Car Market, Car Collector, etc. and club publications as well.

When you start writing your ad you need to keep it concise and clear and include the following basic information: year, make & model, exterior & interior color, engine size & type, mileage, original equipment condition, major options, price tag, phone number, e-mail address and the state where the car is located.

When taking photos, you should offer a wide variety of images that you will be posting online or even send to potential customers, here is what you should capture:

a) front three-quarter view;

b) rear three-quarter view;

c) front;

d) rear;

e) side;

f) engine compartment;

g) interior;

h) any significant flaws.

You also must mention the type of payment that you accept:

a) cash – in most cases you will be safe, but we highly recommend that you check the bills for counterfeits. You will find bill-checking pens at stationery stores;

b) personal / certified checks – you should hold the car right until the bank will confirm that the money have been transferred into your account. The certified checks do not offer more protection than a personal check so be very attentive;

c) bank or cashier's check – you will be safe just as long as that check belongs from a real bank. We highly suggest that you make a phone call to the bank in order to verify that the check was issued or you can ask the bank to verify your funds. It would be best to deposit that check and let it clear, prior to handing out the vehicle;

d) electronic payment or wire transfer – transferring the funds directly from one financial institution to another would have to be one of the safest ways of payment. Before you release the collector car, get in touch with your bank to make sure that the funds have been transferred into your account.

Preparing and executing is very important in the process of selling used collector car but unfortunately many people tend to overlook this one. A regular bill of sale must include the following:

a) seller's identification;

b) buyer's identification;

c) proper identification of the vehicle;

d) the purchase price;

e) warranty statement;

f) signature & date.

As you can see, there are a lot of things that must be taken into consideration when selling a car, especially one that is so special. Since we are talking about a lot of money, there isn't room for any mistakes as you won't get a second chance. Prepare the car, develop a marketing plan, advertise it and then take care of the selling process being very attentive at all of the ramifications of this.

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Selling Used Collector Car

Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari Heading To Goodwood

Posted: 01 Jul 2011 04:45 PM PDT

Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari

The Italian tuner Abarth will be participating at the Goodwood Festival of Speed for the second year in a row and for this occasion they will bring this 695 Tributo Ferrari, based on the tiny Fiat 500. The car is powered by a 4-cylinder 1.4-liter engine that produces 180 PS @ 5,500 rpm and has a peak torque of 250 Nm which is available at 3,000 rpm.

Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari

With this power under its hood, the car can do the 0-62 mph sprint in less than 7 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 140 mph (225 km/h). The fuel consumption for the 695 Tributo Ferrari is rated at 6.5 liters / 100 km.

Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari

Aside from this model, Abarth will also bring to Goodwood and the open-top 500C fitted with the manual transmission which up until now was available only with the "Competizione" paddle-shift semi-automatic gearbox. In addition, the tuner will also exhibit the Punto Evo esseesse.

Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari

Source: Abarth via Carscoop

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Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari Heading To Goodwood

Gordon Murray Design T.27 EV Revealed

Posted: 01 Jul 2011 03:00 PM PDT

Gordon Murray Design T.27

According to the Gordon Murray Design, the T.27 EV is the "world's most efficient electric car", packing a 12 kWh lithium-ion battery that can power an electric motor with 34 hp (34 PS / 25 kW) and 645 lb.-ft (875 Nm) of torque.

Gordon Murray Design T.27

This hardware configuration allows the EV to do the 0-62 mph sprint in less than 15 seconds, before reaching a top speed of 65 mph (105 km/h). The curb weight of the car is 1,500 lb (680 kg) and its estimated driving range is about 100 miles (161 km).

Gordon Murray Design T.27

No word about a launch date yet, but Gordon Murray Design is talking with three automakers about putting the T.27 in production.

Source: Gordon Murray Design via WCF

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Gordon Murray Design T.27 EV Revealed

Renault Launches Clio RS 200 and Twingo RS 133 Silverstone GP

Posted: 01 Jul 2011 02:30 PM PDT

If you live in United Kingdom, you should know that the French automaker Renault has announced two special edition models: the Clio RS 200 and the Twingo RS 133 Silverstone GP. The company will be making only 50 units of each so grab the one that you like before the stock is emptied. Both models sit on a lowered Cup Chassis and come with a silver metallic paint, along with the contrasting "Deep Black" details, including here the 17-inch alloys, door mirrors and roof.

In addition, both cars come with extra-tinted rear windows and wear Silverstone GP badges on the B-pillar. The Twingo RS 133 also features a "Deep Black" rear spoiler, stainless steel exhaust system and fog light surrounds.

Inside the cabin, both hot hatches come with a unique numbered plaque, Renaultsport carpet mats, Renaultsport Monitor onboard performance tracking system. The Clio benefits from Renaultsport Recaro front seats, along with multi functional TunePoint for portable music players and Bluetooth support.

Those who will buy one of these cars will also get a Renaultsport Experience at Silverstone where they will be given the possibility to try out their recently acquired vehicles.

The Renault Twingo RS 133 will set you back at least 14,995 pounds while the price for the Clio RS 200 starts from 19,995 pounds.

Source: Renault via Carscoop

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Renault Launches Clio RS 200 and Twingo RS 133 Silverstone GP

What Crisis? Bentley Increases Sales by 20%

Posted: 01 Jul 2011 01:50 PM PDT

Although the auto industry has been affected tremendously by the recent financial crisis, a few companies have managed to increase their sales during these rough times. A good example would have to be Bentley who announced this week that they have increased their sales by 20%, managing to deliver in the first period of this year 2,978 cars, the most units since 2008.

Most of the success is attributed to the increasing demand for the Continental GT model as well as the company's increasing exposure in China, where the automaker's sales have risen by a whopping 57% in comparison to the similar period of 2010, selling 680 cars.

In Europe, Bentley's sales have risen by 25% (494 units) while in the United States they're up by 23% (907 cars). The only areas where the company's sales have fallen are the Middle East and Japan.

Source: Bentley via Carscoop

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What Crisis? Bentley Increases Sales by 20%

BMW Updates 5-Series Lineup

Posted: 01 Jul 2011 10:00 AM PDT

Those of you who live in Europe will be able to buy starting with this fall the 5-Series fitted with BMW's all-new turbocharged 4-cylinder 2.0-liter gasoline engine that will be offered in two variants: in the first configuration (520i model) it outputs 184 hp and has a peak torque of 199 lb.-ft (270 Nm) while in the other one (528i model) it generates 245 hp and 258 lb.-ft (350 Nm) of torque.

The BMW 520i Sedan can do the 0-62 mph sprint in 7.9 seconds when fitted with the manual gearbox and 0.1 slower with the automatic transmission. The Touring needs 8.3 seconds (8.4 with automatic). The top speed for the sedan is 141 mph (227 km/h) with the manual and 140 mph (226 km/h) with the automatic, while the maximum speed for the Touring is 137 mph (220 km/h) both manual & automatic transmissions.

The sedan has a fuel consumption of 6.8 – 7.0 liters / 100 km and CO2 emissions of 157 – 163 g/km.

Moving on, the more powerful 528i Sedan needs 6.2 seconds to reach 62 mph from start when equipped with the manual gearbox and 6.3 when fitted with the automatic unit, while the Touring will do it in 6.4 seconds (manual) / 6.6 seconds (automatic). The sedan has a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h) while the Touring can reach 152 mph (244 km/h), regardless of the chosen gearbox.

The BMW 528i Sedan consumes 6.8 – 7.1 liters / 100 km and has CO2 emissions of 159 – 165 g/km.

Clients can also opt for the 520i EfficientDynamics Edition which is powered by a 4-cylinder, 2.0-liter diesel engine that produces 184 hp and has a peak torque of 280 lb.-ft (380 Nm). Its fuel consumption is 4.5 liters / 100 km and CO2 emissions stand at only 119 g/km.

The new model year brings 13 hp to the 525d model as it now produces 218 hp @ 4,400 rpm and has a peak torque of 332 lb.-ft (450 Nm). The 530d also gains 13 hp for a grand total of 258 hp @ 4,000 rpm and a peak torque of 398 lb.-ft (540 Nm). The 6-cylinder diesel in the 535d has been updated and it now produces 313 hp and 465 lb.-ft (630 Nm), available between 1,500 and 2,500 rpm.

With the new model year, BMW offers its all-wheel drive system to more models from the 5-Series lineup, the latest additions being the 525d xDrive, 528i xDrive, 530 xDrive, 535 xDrive, 535d xDrive and the 550i xDrive, along with the introduction of a new 550i Touring model, fitted with a V8 engine that churns out 407 hp.

All the models will be available as standard with BMW's Driving Experience Control switch that allows the driver to customize the response of the engine, the accelerator, along with the power steering settings. Also as standard, all 5-Series models now benefit from the stop/start system, Dynamic Stability Control while the models fitted with an automatic gearbox get four modes: Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Eco Pro.

This fall, the German automaker will launch the M sport package for the awful-looking 5-Series GT which will feature an aero kit that consists of new front and rear bumpers, 19-inch wheels (20-inch rims are optional), dark chrome tailpipes, sport seats, a lowered M suspension and new trim and steering wheel.

Source: BMW via Carscoop

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BMW Updates 5-Series Lineup

Gridlock Eliminated with only 5 Talking Cars

Posted: 01 Jul 2011 08:55 AM PDT

Some researchers from Germany made a surprising discovery: the have revealed the fact that only five talking cars in a thousand are enough to reduce traffic congestion.

The research was about Europe's Dynamic Information and Application for Mobility with Adaptive Networks and Telematics Infrastructure program. Its discovery is important, because it encourages automakers to explore the technology of "vehicle-to-vehicle" communication, but also because it allows traffic engineers to find solutions to traffic jams from rush-hours.

"Location-specific traffic information and warnings in real time can help to remedy this, while simultaneously increasing road safety. (…) Less congestion means less wasted time, reduced fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions." said Nick Reilly, president of General Motors Europe, which participated in the research.

We think those results can change many things in the way traffic jams are currently managed, but who knows how efficient could actually get.

Express you opinion and share it.

[Source: Wired, Photo]

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Gridlock Eliminated with only 5 Talking Cars

Bugatti Reveals One-Off “L’or Blanc” Veyron Grand Sport

Posted: 01 Jul 2011 08:30 AM PDT

Bugatti "L'or Blanc" Veyron Grand Sport

This exquisite Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport "L'or Blanc" is the first car in the automotive history that "wears" fine porcelain inside the cabin and on its body. This one-off Veyron features porcelain on its inlays of the centre wheel badges, oil filler cap, fuel filler, cap, along with the traditional "EB" badge out in the back. Aside from this, the supercar is wearing a beautiful paint job that combines a dark blue hue with an impeccable white color.

Bugatti "L'or Blanc" Veyron Grand Sport

The same blue & white theme was applied for the interior of the car and porcelain can be found on both sides of the center console, along with the rear panel located between the seats. In addition, the cabin sports a porcelain dish with diamond-polished edges, part of a picnic set designed by KPM for the automaker.

Bugatti "L'or Blanc" Veyron Grand Sport

Interested in this special Veyron? Well, prepare to pay $2.4 million!

Bugatti "L'or Blanc" Veyron Grand Sport

PS: By the time you're reading this article, probably some wealthy businessman already snatched it.

Source: Bugatti via Carscoop

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Bugatti Reveals One-Off "L'or Blanc" Veyron Grand Sport

AC Schnitzer 2011 BMW X3

Posted: 01 Jul 2011 07:46 AM PDT

2011 BMW X3 (F25) by AC Schnitzer

The German aftermarket specialists from AC Schnitzer have revealed this week their tuning package for the 2011 BMW X3, featuring both performance upgrades and styling changes.

2011 BMW X3 (F25) by AC Schnitzer

The X3 xDrive20d model has received an increase in power and it now outputs 218 PS (215 hp / 160 kW), up from the standard 184 PS. Under development is an upgrade program for the xDrive30d model, along with a stainless steel sports exhaust system for the models fitted with the 6-cylinder, 2.8- and 3.5-liter engines.

Design-wise, the styling kit developed by AC Schnitzer consists of a protective film for the rear skirt and as you can see from this video, the front spoiler of the car maintains its integrity quite well. On the inside, the tuning program consists of an aluminum gear knob that has a digital gear display, a sports steering wheel (with airbag), aluminum pedal set, i-Drive controller aluminum cover and branded velours foot mats.

2011 BMW X3 (F25) by AC Schnitzer

Customers can choose from the long list of wheels available, like the Type VIII forged wheels for example, which measure 22 inches. These sets of wheels are capped off with a sports spring kit.

Source: AC Schnitzer via WCF

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AC Schnitzer 2011 BMW X3

BMW i8 Hybrid Coupe on the Set with Tom Cruise

Posted: 01 Jul 2011 07:40 AM PDT

Ladies, it's not the case to lose your mind! Maybe you should try to manifest some of your unbridled enthusiasm, because the gorgeous BMW i8 Hybrid Coupe got the leading car part in the new "Mission Impossible – Ghost Protocol" film.

Even if we personally believe that Tom Cruise's glorious (and good-looking) times from the first "Mission Impossible" film have passed, we should still appreciate him in the film, for old time's sake. And for his car too.

"We are thrilled to be involved again in another Hollywood Blockbuster," said Ian Robertson, BMW AG Board Member for Sales and Marketing.

Check out the video trailer below:

We are talking about the concept version of the upcoming i8 Hybrid Coupe, the result of the study made of Vision Efficient Dynamics. Besides this car, a BMW ¬6-Series Convertible will also appear in the movie.

Which one is your favorite: Tom Cruise or the BMW car?

[Source: Cascoop]

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BMW i8 Hybrid Coupe on the Set with Tom Cruise

RPMGO Car Blog

2011-07-01T05:33:00.001-07:00

RPMGO Car Blog

UK Gets Peugeot RCZ Asphalt Special Edition
Mazda Refreshes Demio Model In Japan
MINI Inspired by Goodwood, Priced At $65,700!
Spy Shots – 2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Class
BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe Spied
Make Men Jealous by Driving some Cool Cars

UK Gets Peugeot RCZ Asphalt Special Edition

Posted: 30 Jun 2011 02:00 PM PDT

Peugeot RCZ Asphalt

In my humble opinion, the Peugeot RCZ is at the moment one of the most beautiful cars available on the market and this special edition Asphalt looking even more breathtaking. Available only in United Kingdom, this sexy coupe is based on the top-spec GT trim and is powered by a 4-cylinder, 1.6-liter turbocharged engine that produces 200 hp.

The base price for this special edition starts from 29,995 pounds ($47,840) and features an exclusive Telluric grey finish on the outside, a black roof, 19-inch Solstice black alloys, black brake calipers and Asphalt badging.

Peugeot RCZ Asphalt

The inside is Asphalt branded and comes with a stitched Nappa leather trim, Asphalt floor mats and sill covers and a steering wheel plus gear stick wrapped around in leather / Alcantara.

Besides the standard equipment that you get in the GT version, this one features front & rear parking aid, upgraded JBL sound system, Peugeot Connect Media Navigation and auto lightning.

Source: Peugeot via Carscoop

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UK Gets Peugeot RCZ Asphalt Special Edition

Mazda Refreshes Demio Model In Japan

Posted: 30 Jun 2011 02:00 PM PDT

Mazda Demio

Mazda's superimini, Demio (or Mazda2 as you probably know it), just received a facelift and is now on sale in Japan where the automaker plans on selling 6,000 units each month. As you can see, there aren't that many changes as far as the exterior styling is concerned, but the company says that they've increased the rigidity of the bodyshell and they've retuned the suspension, while on the inside, the Demio got materials of higher quality.

Mazda Demio

A new addition to the Mazda2 range is the inclusion of the 13-Skyactive engine that according to the company, offers the best consumption level in its class. This power unit benefits from direct fuel injection, the world's highest compression of 14.0:1 and the proprietary "i-stop" stop/start system. In addition, it also packs some sort of technology called i-DM, which stands for intelligent Drive Master and not only makes the car more economical but it also makes the driving experience more enjoyable.

Mazda Demio

As standard, the Mazda Demio comes with 14-inch alloy wheels or bigger 16-inch rims for the Sport edition along with Dynamic Stability Control that sports Traction Control System.

The Japanese automaker estimates that 60% of the units that will be sold will have the aforementioned 13-Skyactive engine.

Source: Mazda via Carscoop

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Mazda Refreshes Demio Model In Japan

MINI Inspired by Goodwood, Priced At $65,700!

Posted: 30 Jun 2011 01:00 PM PDT

MINI Inspired by Goodwood

It seems that the Aston Martin Cygnet, which is nothing more than a rebadged Toyota iQ, isn't the only car in its class with an incredible price. While the Cygnet costs a whopping $70,700, the MINI Inspired by Goodwood just got a price tag of $65,700!

MINI Inspired by Goodwood

As of today, MINI is taking orders for this special edition model and the first cars will arrive in the UK starting with next March. As you might remember, MINI teamed up with Rolls Royce Motors Card design team for this model and they'll make only 1,000 units.
From the outside, the car comes with a Diamond Black metallic finish borrowed from RR, along with 17-inch alloys that have a multi-spoke design.

MINI Inspired by Goodwood

The most important modifications have been done on the inside, where the MINI Inspired by Goodwood comes with premium materials and features bespoke colors inspired by the ones you'll find in a Rolls Royce model. In addition, the car packs automatic air conditioning, Park Distance Control, Adaptive Headlights, MINI Navigation, Radio MINI Visual Boost and an onboard computer.
The car is available only with the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine that develops 184 hp, the one available for the Cooper S.

Source: MINI via Carscoop

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MINI Inspired by Goodwood, Priced At $65,700!

Spy Shots – 2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Class

Posted: 30 Jun 2011 09:00 AM PDT

2012 Mercedes B-Class

Our colleagues from WCF have been very busy lately taking spy shots of various cars that are about to hit the market in the following period. Their latest batch of photos is with the 2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Class, a car that I've always liked but can't say for sure why.

Anyway, the one you see in these spy shots looks almost a production model, featuring LED indicators, a two bar grille, an upward sweeping shoulder line and a tailgate-mounted spoiler. In comparison to the outgoing model, the new generation looks to be a little bit larger so we
should expect more legroom for those who sit in the back.

2012 Mercedes B-Class

We don't have any confirmed facts regarding the engines which will be available, but expect to see about five gasoline units and four diesels.
The gasoline ones will output from 108 hp (109 PS / 80 kW) to 201 hp (204 PS / 150 kW) while the ones running on the devil's fuel (aka diesel) will generate from 120 hp (122 PS / 90 kW) to 201 hp (204 PS / 150 kW).

No word about the approximate date of the launch for the new B-Class but if it won't be out this year, expect for an early 2012 launch.

Source: WCF

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Spy Shots – 2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Class

BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe Spied

Posted: 30 Jun 2011 07:43 AM PDT

BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe

The BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe was spied by the guys over at WCF who managed to grab a couple of shots with a prototype that was wearing camouflage while undergoing some tests on the streets of Munich. Compared to its 2-door sibling, the new model will feature a significantly longer wheelbase and it will come with "L"-shaped LED taillights.

BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe

The German automaker will offer the model with a wide array of engines, including two gasoline units, two diesels, an M version and of course, a hybrid. In other words, expect to see a 6-cylidner, 3.0-liter that produces 300 hp (304 PS / 224 kW), a V8 4.4-liter with 400 hp (406 PS / 298 kW), a 3.0-liter turbodiesel that generates 204 hp (207 PS / 152 kW), another 3.0-liter turbodiesel that has 245 hp (248 PS / 183 kW), a more powerful twin-turbo V8 that churns 555 hp (563 PS / 408 kW) to 570 hp (578 PS / 425 kW) for the M version and a green hybridized 3.0-liter gasoline unit that sports a 54 hp (55 PS / 40 kW) electric motor.

BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe

The BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe will have to rival some big names in this segment, like the sexy Audi A7, the even sexier Mercedes CLS and the awful-looking Porsche Panamera. The car will be most likely revealed this September at the Frankfurt Motor Show and it will arrive in dealerships towards the end of next year.

Source: WCF

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BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe Spied

Make Men Jealous by Driving some Cool Cars

Posted: 30 Jun 2011 07:21 AM PDT

Despite their reputation of bad drivers, women can drive cool cars too, powerful cars with perfect design that could make jealous even a man.

Our friends from Carwoo have made a list of such cars that draw men attention:

Porsche Boxster

- distinctive shape, vintage look
- classy style, elegant shape
- perfectly match with your red lipstick and platforms
- recommended if you want to attract intellectual, cosmopolitan type of men

Chevy Camaro

- muscle car
- magnet for men
- could be a perfect discussion topic with men, if you're that kind of woman that knows some of the car's specs
- a hard-workins woman's car, from jeans to office-type

Chevy Corvette

- fast car: from 0 to 60 in just 4 seconds
- recommended if you want more mature men, gentleman-type, and hard-working for making a career

What other cars do you think that make men jealous?

[Source: Carwoo, Photos]

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Make Men Jealous by Driving some Cool Cars

RPMGO Car Blog

2011-06-30T05:19:00.001-07:00

RPMGO Car Blog

Audi R8 V8 Limited Edition Goes To UK
Russian Yo Hybrid Car Pre-Ordered By 100,000 Customers
2012 Chevrolet Impala Revealed
Freescale 77GHz radar system for a safer drive in difficult conditions

Audi R8 V8 Limited Edition Goes To UK

Posted: 29 Jun 2011 09:30 PM PDT

Audi R8 V8 Limited Edition

This year, Audi won its 10th LeMans 24-hours endurance race and has decided to celebrate this achievement by rolling out a special edition of the R8 model. Only 100 units will be made and all of them will be sold in the United Kingdom.

Dubbed the Audi R8 V8 Limited Edition, it will be available with a unique titanium effect paint finish, alloy rims that have a titanium look (similar to the ones on the R8 GT), red-painted calipers, along with an optional Carbon Package that includes carbon sigma sideblades, inlays, engine bay surround frame, monoposto and door sill trims.

Audi R8 V8 Limited Edition

Inside the cabin, this special R8 will feature red trim accents and stitching, while the headrests and the seats will be wrapped around in Black Fine Nappa leather.

Buyers will be able to pre-order the car starting with next month at a base price of 93,935 pounds and they'll get their cars starting from October this year.

Source: Audi via WCF

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Audi R8 V8 Limited Edition Goes To UK

Russian Yo Hybrid Car Pre-Ordered By 100,000 Customers

Posted: 29 Jun 2011 12:00 PM PDT

If we were to believe Mikhail Prokhorov, a Russian billionaire businessman, the Yo natural-gas hybrid turns out to be a very popular car as the company has received orders stretching out as far as 10 years into the future. He told Russia Today, a satellite TV channel, that the company has received more than 100,000 orders.

Back in October 2010, Prokhorov, who is also the owner of the popular New York Nets basketball team, revealed that he was founding the firm by investing $200 million in order to create and manufacture a Russian-designed vehicle in mother Russia. Two months later, in December, more details about the car surfaced the Internet, revealing a hybrid configuration that features a rotary-vane engine that powers a generator that flows current to a pair of small-sized electric traction motors.

During high power demand, the extra current available is then fed from a bank of capacitors that are capable of discharging at high voltage. The curb weight of the Yo subcompact is expected to be around the 1,500 pounds mark and the 0-62 mph sprint time is done between 8 and 14 seconds while top speed is somewhere around 75 mph.

As far as the gas mileage is concerned, the Russia hybrid is expected to return more than 60 mpg when running on gasoline. In addition, it will also be capable of running on LPG (liquefied petroleum gas). The range of the car (on both fuel systems) is estimated to be somewhere around 680 miles.

The founder of the company plans on putting the car on sale sometime in July-December 2012 with a price tag of $12,000 – $15,000 (350,000 – 450,000 rubles). The estimated annual production for the Yo will be around 45,000 units during the first year and if everything goes according to the plan, an expansion of the plant is being considered in the near vicinity of St. Petersburg which will double the production figures.

Source: GreenCarReports

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Russian Yo Hybrid Car Pre-Ordered By 100,000 Customers

2012 Chevrolet Impala Revealed

Posted: 29 Jun 2011 08:00 AM PDT

2012 Chevrolet Impala

One of the most popular cars among rental fleets is without any doubt the Chevrolet Impala. Back for a new generation, it looks like a car from the 90s. It must be one of the mod outdated designs (both inside and outside) that I have ever seen. The new additions to this "fresh" model revolve around the engine area where Chevrolet has installed a new V6 3.5-liter engine that produces only 230 hp.

They also upgraded the gearbox of the car, putting to sleep the archaic 4-speed slushbox and installing a more modern 6-speed automatic unit. These new additions will probably improve the fuel efficiency numbers but we won't know for sure until the EPA rating is out.

2012 Chevrolet Impala

Design-wise, one of the somewhat noticeable differences in comparison to the current model is the chrome mesh that adorns the grille and the fog-light housings, similar to the one on the Malibu. The entry-level model rides on 16-inch aluminum rims. Inside the cabin, nothing new on the horizon, although you do get Bluetooth on all models and for those destined for fleets is optional.

Source: Car And Driver

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2012 Chevrolet Impala Revealed

Freescale 77GHz radar system for a safer drive in difficult conditions

Posted: 29 Jun 2011 07:12 AM PDT

Well, not all of us are that lucky to drive only in good weather and with perfect visibility of the road. There are regions where those driving conditions are quite rare, and heavy rain, fog or congested roads during the night are commonplace, which makes almost impossible to perfectly see in front of your car.

For these kinds of situations, Freescale has created a demo high-resolution 77GHz radar system, which to make visible to the driver people or objects that cannot be seen in bad weather conditions. The radar is good enough that it can detect blind spots or obstacles, even for situations of parking in tight spots. It can easily be switched between long- and short-range functionality, according to driver's necessities. The great thing is that its detection covers the front and also the back of the car.

This is how it actually works:

There are no information about the moment when this radar system will start being used on cars for the moment, but we totally encourage the development of this kind of systems, which to improve safety and driving conditions.

What do you think about the idea of such radar?

[Source: Armdevices, Photo]

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Freescale 77GHz radar system for a safer drive in difficult conditions

RPMGO Car Blog

2011-06-29T05:03:00.001-07:00

RPMGO Car Blog

Range Rover Evoque XL In The Works?
Spy Shots – 2012 Bentley Continental GTC Speed Facelift
Unknown Chinese Buyer Orders 582 SAABs
Jaguar XF 2.2 Diesel Revealed
Porsche 550 Revival In The Works
2012 Opel Astra ecoFLEX Announced
Renault Fluence Z.E., Priced From 17,850 Pounds
Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Won By Monster Tajima
Chevrolet Camaro Transformers Special Edition Unleashed
Porsche Triumphs At 24-hour Nurburgring Race

Range Rover Evoque XL In The Works?

Posted: 29 Jun 2011 03:00 AM PDT

Range Rover Evoque XL (rendering)

You probably have heard already that the British car manufacturer Land Rover is taking into consideration a fourth model in the Range Rover lineup, but now a new report has surfaced the Internet indicating the company is thinking about whether to give the car the green light for production of not.

We don't have many details about this new model, but rumors say that it is going to be an extended-length version of the Evoque, which will be up to 11.8 inches (300 mm) longer and 3.9 inches (100 mm) taller in comparison to the standard model, which will certainly provide a more spacious interior cabin and a possible 7-seat configuration.

Most likely, the engines will remain pretty much the same, which means that the Evoque XL will be powered by a 2.0-liter gasoline engine that produces 237 hp (240 PS / 177 kW) along with a 2.2-liter turbodiesel power plant that generates 148 hp (150 PS / 110 kW) and 187 hp (190 PS / 140 kW).

Source: Autocar

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Range Rover Evoque XL In The Works?

Spy Shots – 2012 Bentley Continental GTC Speed Facelift

Posted: 29 Jun 2011 12:00 AM PDT

2012 Bentley Continental GTC Speed

Our esteemed colleagues from Motor Authority have managed to grab a few spy shots with the upcoming facelift for the 2012 Bentley Continental GTC Speed. The prototype you see in these photos comes with minimal camouflage so we can catch a glimpse of the car's styling. You probably noticed already the design of the new bumper which now incorporates bigger intakes, along with the new exhaust tips and probably some updated brakes.

2012 Bentley Continental GTC Speed

Most likely, the engineers from Bentley will probably shave off a couple of pounds and increase the rigidity of the car. The Continental GTC Speed will be powered by a massive W12 6.0-liter engine that is available on all the models in the Continental GT lineup. The output will probably surpass the 600 hp / 553 lb.-ft mark. This engine will be linked to the same 6-speed gearbox from ZF, but it will be considerably faster thanks to the implementation of the Quickshift function which allows double downshifts. If all of these will turn out to be true, the car will be able to do the 0-62 mph sprint in a mere 4.4 seconds, before reaching a top speed of more than 195 mph.

2012 Bentley Continental GTC Speed

The car will most likely be launched in early 2012, a couple of months after the official debut of the standard Continental GTC.

2012 Bentley Continental GTC Speed

Source: Motor Authority

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Spy Shots – 2012 Bentley Continental GTC Speed Facelift

Unknown Chinese Buyer Orders 582 SAABs

Posted: 28 Jun 2011 11:30 PM PDT

2011 SAAB 9-5 Sedan

In last week's SAAB drama we've talked about the company's difficulties to pay its employees. This week we have good news as a mystery Chinese buyer ordered 582 cars and he will forward a pre-payment of $18.4 million by the end of this week.

Victor Mueller, the CEO of Swedish Automobile (formerly known as Spyker Cars), current owner of SAAB, said that the company is still searching to acquire the necessary funding in order to pay the suppliers.

In other news, the automaker has reached an agreement with a consortium of Swedish real estate investors for the sale of 50.1% of Saab Property for the next 15 years. SAAB's property consists of 483,000 m2 building space and the company will receive 28 million Euros and another 5 million after the sale, consisting of more shares.

For this deal to happen the Swedish National Debt Office has to release its pledge in the shares of the aforementioned Saab Property or else the EIB will diminish the loan by 120 million Euros.

More SAAB episodes coming soon… Stay tuned.

Source: SAAB via Carscoop

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Unknown Chinese Buyer Orders 582 SAABs

Jaguar XF 2.2 Diesel Revealed

Posted: 28 Jun 2011 11:00 PM PDT

Jaguar XF 2.2 Diesel

It's here – the most fuel efficient model that Jaguar has ever made. The new XF 2.2 Diesel sedan will prove its efficiency by taking a long journey that will start from Castle Bromwich (where the factory is) in Birmingham, United Kingdom, to Munich in Germany with only one tank of fuel.

Jaguar says that this can be achieved thanks to the very efficient 4-cylinder engine that consumes only 47.5 mpg (57 mpg UK or 4.9 liters / 100 km) which should allow the gorgeous XF to complete the 816 miles (1,312 km) trip. This engine is in fact an uprated version of the 4-cylinder, turbocharged Ford-sourced 2.2-liter unit, the one found in the European-spec Ford Mondeo and also in the Land Rover Freelander.

The power unit generates 190 hp and has a peak torque of 332 lb.-ft, which is enough for a 0-62 mph sprint in a respectable time of 8.5 seconds and a maximum speed of 140 mph (225 km/h). This engine is mated to an 8-speed gearbox from ZF and a premiere for a Jaguar model, it benefits from the stop/start system.

The model will be officially out this September, along with the rest of the facelifted XF range.

Source: Jaguar via Carscoop

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Jaguar XF 2.2 Diesel Revealed

Porsche 550 Revival In The Works

Posted: 28 Jun 2011 10:00 PM PDT

Porsche 550 Spyder

It seems that the German automaker Porsche is working on a car that will revive the iconic 550 model from the 50s. This baby Porsche is going to feature an entirely new engine in the form of a 4-cylinder 1.6-liter "boxer" unit. This engine is going to be turbocharged and is expected to generate about 200 hp. The power will be sent to the rear wheels via a manual transmission, although the company will most likely offer an optional PDK twin-clutch unit.

Scheduled for a 2014 entry, the car will become the entry-level Porsche model and is expected to have a curb weight of approximately 1,200 kg. The two-seater will be able to do the 0-62 mph sprint in about 6 seconds, on its way to a top speed of approximately 145 mph. Unlike other Porsche models, this one promises to be a little more efficient, returning 40 mpg UK and emitting less than 160 g / km of CO2 thanks to the inclusion of the start/stop technology.

This mid-engined platform is also going to be used for a production version of the Volkswagen Bluesport, a concept that we saw back in 2009 at the Detroit Motor Show. In addition, it will be used for a new Audi roadster, probably the R4, which will be slotted below the current TT. With the introduction of the R4, the Audi TT will be more expensive. This strategy will also be applied at Porsche when the 550 will be introduced as it will have a base price of 35,000 pounds, while the Boxster will surpass the 40,000 pounds mark.

Until 2014 when the 550 will be out, the German automaker is going to launch three new cars. The first one is the new generation of the 911 which will get its official debut at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show which will be organized in September. The new 911 will be followed next year by the new generations of the Boxster and the sexy Cayman.

Source: Auto Express

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Porsche 550 Revival In The Works

2012 Opel Astra ecoFLEX Announced

Posted: 28 Jun 2011 09:30 PM PDT

2012 Opel Astra ecoFLEX

General Motors announced this week the 2012 Opel / Vauxhall Astra ecoFLEX that promises to deliver an emissions level of only 99 g/km. The car is powered by a 1.7-liter CDTI turbodiesel engine that benefits from the common-rail technology and generates 130 hp (96 kW) and 300 Nm of torque, available between 2,000 and 2,500 rpm.

2012 Opel Astra ecoFLEX

To further improve fuel efficiency, the engineers improved the car's aerodynamics, lowered the chassis by 12 mm and installed low rolling resistance tires, along with the implementation of the start/stop system.

2012 Opel Astra ecoFLEX

Unfortunately, General Motors forgot to mention what really interests us – fuel consumption. We hope that they'll divulge the figures pretty soon.

They did mention that in order to reduce the gas emissions, they've implemented a technology called Clean Tech Combustion, along with braking energy recuperation and a thermal management system. The engine is mated to a 6-speed transmission with reduced friction.

Source: General Motors via ZerCustoms

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2012 Opel Astra ecoFLEX Announced

Renault Fluence Z.E., Priced From 17,850 Pounds

Posted: 28 Jun 2011 09:00 PM PDT

Renault Fluence Z.E.

The third Z.E. model that will be offered in United Kingdom by Renault after the Kangoo Van and the Twizy will be the Fluence Z.E, which should be out next year. It will be sold at an on-the-road price of 22,850 pounds but buyers will have to pay only 17,850 pounds thanks to the 5,000-pound UK Plug-In Car Grant. The 4-door, 5-seat sedan is going to be the cheapest EV sold in United Kingdom if we don't take into consideration the Twizy or the G-Wiz.

Renault Fluence Z.E.

Buyers will have to lease the car's batteries, paying 75 pounds / month based on 6,000 miles / 3 year. Closer to the launch, the French manufacturer will offer more details regarding extending the length of the contract or adding more mileage.

Renault Fluence Z.E.

The Renault Fluence Z.E. features an electric motor that generates 95 hp (70 kW) and has a torque of 167 lb.-ft (226 Nm). The lithium-ion battery offers the electric sedan a driving range of up to 115 miles (185 km).

Renault Fluence Z.E.

At first, the car will be offered only with a trim level, dubbed Prime Time. Those who buy the Fluence Z.E. will get as standard climate control, 16-inch alloys, cruise control, Carminat TomTom Live smart sat-nav, ecoMeter, along with charging sockets on the front wings.

Source: Renault via Carscoop

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Renault Fluence Z.E., Priced From 17,850 Pounds

Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Won By Monster Tajima

Posted: 28 Jun 2011 04:00 PM PDT

This year's edition of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb was won by Nobuhiro "Monster" Tajima, for the 6^th consecutive time, rounding up the total victories to 11 since the first one which occurred back in 1988. The hill climb master drove a specially-adapted Suzuki SX4 that was powered by a V6 3.1-liter turbocharged engine that generates 912 hp (924 PS / 680 kW) and a peak torque of 656 lb.-ft (890 Nm).

In the final leg up of the popular course, he had to face some problems coming from a sudden loss of power steering and a blow radiator but in the end managed to hold on to the first place. What's even more impressive is the fact that he is the first driver who breaks the 10-minute barrier, finishing the climb in 9 minutes and 51.278 seconds.

The difficult Pikes Peak challenge consists of 19.9 km where there are 156 turns, starting from an altitude of 9383 feet (2860 meters) and ending at 14,107 feet (4300 meters) where the summit of Pikes Peak is and where the engines lose 30% of their power.

Source: Suzuki via WCF

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Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Won By Monster Tajima

Chevrolet Camaro Transformers Special Edition Unleashed

Posted: 28 Jun 2011 03:00 PM PDT

2012 Transformers Special Edition Chevrolet Camaro

The closest you'll ever be to driving the Bumblebee would be by purchasing this 2012 Chevrolet Camaro Transformers Special Edition. I'm pretty sure that almost all of you were expecting this limited edition, taking into consideration that the movie Transformers: Dark of the Moon will be out this week.

2012 Transformers Special Edition Chevrolet Camaro

This package will set you back $3,000 and is available for the 2SS and 2LT coupes. For this money you get a Rally Yellow exterior that has black stripes, 20-inch alloys and Autobot emblems. You can also opt for a ground-effects package and bigger wheels that measure 21 inches.

As far as the interior cabin is concerned, this special edition packs black leather upholstery, along with embroidered headrests and yellow contrast stitching.

Source: General Motors via WCF

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Chevrolet Camaro Transformers Special Edition Unleashed

Porsche Triumphs At 24-hour Nurburgring Race

Posted: 28 Jun 2011 01:00 PM PDT

The Porsche Team Manthey has managed its fifth victory in the last six years at the 24-hour Nurburgring race. The guys behind the wheel of the 911 GT3 RSR were Marc Lieb from Germany, Timo Bernhard form Germany, Romain Dumas from France and Lucas Luhr from Switzerland. They managed to drive the car for 156 laps or 2,460 miles (3,958 km).

The Porsche 911 GT3 RSR took the lead of the race while there were only 35 minutes left of the race and successfully hold on to the first position until the end. In second place came last year's winner – BMW Motorsports M3 GT2 and rounding up the top 3 was the Audi R8 LMS.

Nurburgring 24-hour race results:

1. Lieb/Bernhard/Dumas/Luhr (D/D/F/CH), Porsche 911 GT3 RSR, 156 laps

2. Müller/Farfus/Alzen/Lamy (D/BRA/D/P), BMW M3 GT, +4:23.7 seconds

3. Basseng/Fässler/Piccini/Stippler (D/CH/I/D), Audi R8 LMS, – 1 lap

4. Stippler/Hennerici/Haase/Winkelhock (D/D/D/D), Audi R8 LMS, – 1 lap

5. Ekström/Scheider/Werner/Abt (S/D/D/D), Audi R8 LMS, – 2 laps

6. Heyer/Jäger/Bleekemolen/Seyffarth (D/D/NL/D), Mercedes-Benz SLS, – 3 laps

7. Arnold/Margaritis/Brück/Frankenhout (D/D/D/NL), Mercedes-Benz SLS, – 3 laps

8. Farnbacher/Simonsen/Seefried/Melo (D/MC/D/I), Ferrari F 458, – 4 laps

9. Abbelen/Schmitz/Kentenich/T. Bergmeister (D/D/D/D), Porsche 911 GT3 R, – 4 laps

10. Weiss/Kainz/Jacobs/Krumbach (D/D/D/D), Porsche 911 GT3 R, – 5 laps

Source: Carscoop

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Porsche Triumphs At 24-hour Nurburgring Race

RPMGO Car Blog

2011-06-28T05:28:00.001-07:00

RPMGO Car Blog

Peugeot: Take The Car Challenge
Popemobile Goes Hybrid
Fiat Plans Russian-built Jeeps
Bosch Mahle Turbo Installs 1.2-liter Engine In VW Passat
Toyota Prius Is Sold Out, Kind Of
Campaign for Volkswagen Tiguan – not so woman-friendly
Fresh Shots With Jaguar’s “new E-Type”
Wireless Back-Up Camera from Magellan
Japan Gets Special Edition Ford Mustang

Peugeot: Take The Car Challenge

Posted: 28 Jun 2011 05:25 AM PDT

Peugeot had the idea to reinvent the “who can hold on to the car the longest gets to drive it/take it home” contest, that was pretty popular more than a few years back. They took it online and targeted, in our opinion, the users that had a lot of time to waste and a worked out finger.

The "Take The Car" challenge meant that contestants had to click-and-hold down the mouse for as long as possible, in order to win a drive test with one of the sporty Peugeot models: the 207 CC, the 308 CC or the RCZ. Cheaters were dashed with impromptu tests and people held on as long as 15 hours! And all that just to drive the car.

Of course, Peugeot didn’t miss the chance to advertise the models’ characteristics, so they used nearly 9,000 words to brag about their technological achievements and so on. Check out the entire story and its results below:

How do you think that contests such as this one still work?

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Peugeot: Take The Car Challenge

Popemobile Goes Hybrid

Posted: 28 Jun 2011 12:00 AM PDT

1930 Mercedes-Benz Nurburg 460 Pullman

No wonder that Pope Bendict XVI is also known as the "green pope" for his support of eco-friendly causes. He will get the very first green popemobile in the form of a hybrid Mercedes-Benz M-Class. If we were to believe Wirtschaftswoche, a German business paper, the hybrid crossover will feature lithium-ion batteries and will have an electric driving range of up to 20 miles.

In 2010, Benedict had his thoughts on getting a pure-electric solar-powered Popemobile, but his closest advisors said that a hybrid would be more suitable, mostly because it would eliminate potentially threatening situations.

The car will be delivered towards the end of this year or even in early 2012 and will join six or seven Mercedes-Benz heavily armored vehicles, including a modified S-Class model and two customized Gelandewagens.

Mercedes-Benz has been supplying Popemobiles to the Vatican for more than 8 decades. The very first one was delivered to Pope Pius XI and was a Nurburg 460 Pullman limousine from 1930. The current fleet includes a M430 that was delivered in 2002 for John Paul II, the previous pontiff, along with a G500 cabriolet from 2007 and a G500 hardtop from 2008. These two last models are wearing a Vatican Mystic White livery.

Source: Inside Line

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Popemobile Goes Hybrid

Fiat Plans Russian-built Jeeps

Posted: 27 Jun 2011 09:30 PM PDT

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Several rumors have surfaced the Internet last week regarding Fiat who will invest about $1.1 billion in a brand new assembly plant in Russia that will build Jeeps and other vehicles. This factory is reported to have an assembly capacity of 120,000 units / year. The Italian automaker reached last year a preliminary agreement with Russia's Sollers group in order to form a $3.3 billion venture for assembling Jeeps, along with other cars. This deal involved creating a new plant in Naborezhnye Chelny, but the deal fell through at the beginning of this year.

Fiat has not given up and this time they want to do it on their own, with a little help from the Russian Ministry of Economy. Despite the fact that the new plant will be built in Nizhny Novogorod, which is the HQ of the important Russian automaker GAZ, there are no plans of a partnership in the near future, although in the past there were some negotiations but nothing went official.

According to Russian analysts, Jeep will have a hard time to obtain a niche in Russia's saturated market, although the brand has a powerful global recognition. The number o Jeeps that were sold in Russia in the last few years is very low. In 2010, Jeep managed to sell only 809 units in Russia, according to the Association of European Businesses, as opposed to Land Rover that delivered 10,000 cars.

Fiat will also have to think about the price tag of these vehicles, taking into consideration that there is some fierce competition coming from the cars made in Korea and China.

Source: Inside Line

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Fiat Plans Russian-built Jeeps

Bosch Mahle Turbo Installs 1.2-liter Engine In VW Passat

Posted: 27 Jun 2011 09:00 PM PDT

Regardless of the area you live in, you definitely can't buy a new VW Passat with a tiny 1.2-liter, 3-cylinder engine. The car you see in this pictures has one, courtesy of Bosch Mahle Turbo systems who took a 2009 VW Passat and installed this type of engine that produces 161 hp and has a peak torque of 210 lb.-ft.

This kind of power is usually available from 4-cylinder 2.0-liter engines or turbocharged 1.6-liter units like Ford's EcoBoost, but they managed to do it with only a small 3-cylinder, turbocharged, 1.2-liter engine. The power unit also has good mileage as it managed to return 40 mpg on the European test cycle, which is about 32-35 on the United States combined cycle.

This is a very relevant example of a considerably smaller engine that generates just about the same power as its bigger siblings and manages to deliver significantly more fuel efficiency.

More and more car manufacturers are planning to roll out smaller engines, including BMW and Ford, a premiere for each company.

Who said that the gasoline engine is dead?

Source: Green Car Reports

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Bosch Mahle Turbo Installs 1.2-liter Engine In VW Passat

Toyota Prius Is Sold Out, Kind Of

Posted: 27 Jun 2011 10:00 AM PDT

2011 Toyota Prius

If you are in the market for a brand new 2011MY Toyota Prius hybrid, you'll have a tough time finding one. It seems that the supply level is down to only 3,000 units which are enough for less than 10 days of sales. This situation in the automotive industry is called "sold out" and as a consequence, the dealers are now charging more money for the few Priuses that they have left in stock.

It was only last week when the Japanese automaker said that 75,000 units will reach the United States by the end of 2011. Toyota already promised to its dealers 36,000 Priuses over the course of this summer. In regular months, the company sells about 15,000 cars, but they managed to sell even 25,000 cars when the gas prices were high (May) and for this reason the inventory is very low at the moment. Another reason for the current situation is due to the severe impact of the March 11 earthquake, which lead to a terrible tsunami that caused a lot of issues to Japan's industrial infrastructure, among other problems.

At the moment, Toyota is rolling out Priuses as fast as the factories that make components can deliver the necessary parts and it takes a long time before they reach stateside as the cars are shipped by sea and by long time we mean a couple of months of travel between the factory in Japan and the dealers in the United States.

Our recommendation would be to wait until this fall to buy a Toyota Prius hybrid, unless you want to pay a lot for getting one of the few ones available now.

Source: Green Car Reports

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Toyota Prius Is Sold Out, Kind Of

Campaign for Volkswagen Tiguan – not so woman-friendly

Posted: 27 Jun 2011 08:28 AM PDT

Last week, Volkswagen has launched the first commercial campaign for the 2012 Tiguan and it's not actually using a woman-friendly idea. The argument for that is that the man that drives the car with three women in it doesn't have a friendly and tolerable attitude towards them and their talking after their busy shopping day.

Actually, it's a mutual disapproval of their concerns and gives the idea that VW Tiguan is the perfect solution to make silence, to take revenge on their continuous chatter and to show them who is in control of that car.

Volkswagen Tiguan Commercial:

After seeing the commercial we cannot imagine a woman even to consider buying the car, as its creative concept is slightly insulting to women. However, Volkswagen claims the ad only shows the flexibility and off-road capabilities of their Tiguan SUV. This model comes in two versions, Sport & Style for urban driving and Track & Style for off-road driving, petrol and diesel.

What is your opinion about this commercial: should women feel insulted?

[Source: Zercustom]

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Campaign for Volkswagen Tiguan – not so woman-friendly

Fresh Shots With Jaguar’s “new E-Type”

Posted: 27 Jun 2011 08:00 AM PDT

Jaguar "new E-type"

Some of you have probably been waiting for a long time for a proper E-type replacement from Jaguar and we now know that it is only 18 months away from an official unveiling. According to company insiders, the car will feature an all-aluminum body and it will be available in coupe and cabrio versions, most of them being powered by a V6 gasoline engine. A more powerful V8 engine will be launched later on.

Jaguar "new E-type"

Originally, the car was designed as a roadster that could rival with the Porsche Boxster, but the production version will certainly be longer and wider than the German model. This next gen E-type will feature the same aluminum architecture that Jaguar has used on the new XK and both of them are going to be manufactured at the company's plant in Castle Bromwich, located near Birmingham, UK.

Jaguar "new E-type"

Creating two entirely different cars that are based on the same architecture was a difficult task for the automaker's engineers, but according to insiders, the new E-type is going to have just about the same dimensions as the current XK, although it will be 250 mm shorter, measuring 4.55 m long.

Jaguar believes that there is going to be an important demand coming from the American market where the E-type was known as the XKE. This demand will be powerful especially among female customers.

The new E-type could make its first official appearance in January 2013 at the Detroit Motor Show, about 50 years after the launch of the legendary "Lightweight E-type" that participated at the Sebring 12 Hours as well as at the Le Mans in 1963.

Source: Autocar.co.uk

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Fresh Shots With Jaguar’s “new E-Type”

Wireless Back-Up Camera from Magellan

Posted: 27 Jun 2011 07:27 AM PDT

From now on, backing up your vehicle or rear parking is no longer a problem for unskilled drivers: Magellan GPS has announced the launch of a Back-Up Camera – a device that is well-integrated in its car navigation units and that improves safety while reversing and rear parking.

The camera is combined with Safety Series GPS navigator expands, which to keep you safe for the whole period being in the car. The great thing is that, whenever you rear drive, it easily and automatically commutes from premium GPS navigation features to Back-Up Camera. The view is very accurate: the device delivers a 120-degree viewing area behind the vehicle, being attached to car's rear license plate; it transmits visual signals to an expansive 7" high resolution screen of a RoadMate 1700 or RoadMate 9055 GPS Device.

“The Magellan Wireless Back-Up Camera adds a substantial level of safety and security to your drive. Back-Up Cameras have proven to be useful devices in helping drivers get a more complete picture of what’s behind them – such as small children or pets in the driveway – and helping them back into narrow, parallel parking spots. Combined with the confidence that a navigation device provides, the RoadMate with Back-Up Camera help you leave, arrive and park safely,”

said Mike Wagner, Senior Director, Product Marketing for Magellan GPS.

If you wonder what guarantees you that you can use the camera even on bad weather, you should find out that the device is both dustproof and waterproof to IP67 standard. The Back-Up Camera boasts a 45-foot range and a 45 degree camera vertical adjustment, and has a transmitter that can be adapted to most cars, SUVs and RVs.

The Magellan Wireless Back-Up Camera kit comes complete, with all the needed technical details and systems, and is available at Amazon.com for $149.99.

What do you think about this device: do you find it useful?

[Source: PRnewswire, Photo]

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Wireless Back-Up Camera from Magellan

Japan Gets Special Edition Ford Mustang

Posted: 27 Jun 2011 06:00 AM PDT

Ford Mustang V6 Sport Appearance

Ford has unveiled a couple of days ago a special edition of its iconic Mustang which will only be available in Japan. Dubbed "Mustang V6 Sport Appearance", customers will be able to choose from one of the two colors available: Grabber Bluer or Performance White. Both of these liveries will come with special pin stripes on the hood bump and on the sides.

Ford Mustang V6 Sport Appearance

In addition, the car features a rear boot lid spoiler and sits on chromed alloy rims that measure 18 inches. These wheels are wrapped around big 235/50 R18 tires. Inside the cabin, Ford has fitted this special edition Mustang with leather seats.

Ford Mustang V6 Sport Appearance

This package is available for both the coupe and convertible models, the ones powered by the V6 3.7-liter engine which in the Japan specification produces 309 hp and has a peak torque of 278.8 lb.-ft (378 Nm).

Ford Mustang V6 Sport Appearance

Ford is going to roll out only 25 units for the coupe and another 25 for the convertible. Those who own the coupe will have to pay 4.34 million Yen (about $54,250) and those that drive the convertible will need to make a withdrawal from their bank of 5.50 million Yen (approximately $63,000).

Source: Ford via Carscoop

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Japan Gets Special Edition Ford Mustang

RPMGO Car Blog

2011-06-27T05:03:00.001-07:00

RPMGO Car Blog

BMW M5 Nurburgring Taxi Revealed
Vettel Triumphs In Valencia
Bugatti Delivers Last Veyron 16.4

BMW M5 Nurburgring Taxi Revealed

Posted: 27 Jun 2011 05:00 AM PDT

2012 BMW M5 Nürburgring taxi

The German automaker is trying to promote the upcoming M5 through any ways possible and their latest advertising scheme is this M5 Nurburgring taxi which they've unveiled last week at the M Festival in Germany. Aside from the special livery, the car is just about the same as the one we'll be seeing on the streets in a couple of months.

2012 BMW M5 Nürburgring taxi

As a reminder, the upcoming BMW M5 is powered by a V8 4.4-liter engine that churns out 552 hp (560 PS / 412 kW) and has a peak torque of 502 lb.-ft (680 Nm). This powerful engine is linked to a 7-speed, dual-clutch gearbox that allows the car to do the 0-62 mph sprint in only 4.4 seconds, 0-124 mph in 13 seconds, before reaching a top speed of 190 mph (305 km/h).

Source: BMWBlog

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BMW M5 Nurburgring Taxi Revealed

Vettel Triumphs In Valencia

Posted: 27 Jun 2011 03:46 AM PDT

Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel managed to grab his sixth victory of the season after a race that didn't raise any problems for the current world champion. Fernando Alonso from Ferrari grabbed second place after a close battle with Vettel's colleague, Mark Webber who came in third. Lewis Hamilton had a disappointing race and he finished in fourth place, followed by Ferrari's Felipe Massa.

At one minute behind Vettel arrived Jenson Button in his McLaren Mercedes, followed by Nico Rosberg. Jaime Alguersuari had a great race, managing to arrive in 8^th, ahead of Force India's Adrian Sutil and Renault's Nick Heidfeld. Michael Schumacher finished in a very disappointing 17^th position, at more than one lap behind Vettel.

The fastest lap of the race was achieved by Sebastian Vettel who managed to complete the 53^rd lap of the Valencia GP in 1m 41.852s.

Here are the complete results of the European Grand Prix:

1. Sebastian Vettel Germany Red Bull-Renault 57laps 1hr 39m 36.169s
2. Fernando Alonso Spain Ferrari-Ferrari +00m 10.8s
3. Mark Webber Australia Red Bull-Renault +00m 27.2s
4. Lewis Hamilton Britain McLaren-Mercedes +00m 46.1s
5. Felipe Massa Brazil Ferrari-Ferrari +00m 51.7s
6. Jenson Button Britain McLaren-Mercedes +01m 00.0s
7. Nico Rosberg Germany Mercedes-Mercedes +01m 38.0s
8. Jaime Alguersuari Spain Toro Rosso-Ferrari +1 lap
9. Adrian Sutil Germany Force India-Mercedes +1 lap
10. Nick Heidfeld Germany Renault-Renault +1 lap

11. Sergio Perez Mexico Sauber-Ferrari +1 lap
12. Rubens Barrichello Brazil Williams-Cosworth +1 lap
13. Sebastien Buemi Switzerland Toro Rosso-Ferrari +1 lap
14. Paul di Resta Britain Force India-Mercedes +1 lap
15. Vitaly Petrov Russia Renault-Renault +1 lap
16. Kamui Kobayashi Japan Sauber-Ferrari +1 lap
17. Michael Schumacher Germany Mercedes-Mercedes +1 lap
18. Pastor Maldonado Venezuela Williams-Cosworth +1 lap
19. Heikki Kovalainen Finland Lotus-Renault +2 laps
20. Jarno Trulli Italy Lotus-Renault +2 laps
21. Timo Glock Germany Virgin-Cosworth +2 laps
22. Jerome d’Ambrosio Belgium Virgin-Cosworth +2 laps
23. Vitantonio Liuzzi Italy HRT-Cosworth +3 laps
24. Narain Karthikeyan India HRT-Cosworth +3 laps

After 8 races so far, the situation in the drivers’ championship looks like this:

POSITION	DRIVER	TEAM	POINTS
1	Sebastian Vettel	Red Bull Racing	186
2	Mark Webber	Red Bull Racing	109
=	Jenson Button	Vodafone McLaren Mercedes	109
4	Lewis Hamilton	Vodafone McLaren Mercedes	97
5	Fernando Alonso	Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro	87
6	Felipe Massa	Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro	42
7	Nico Rosberg	Mercedes GP Petronas F1 Team	32
8	Vitaly Petrov	Lotus Renault GP	31
9	Nick Heidfeld	Lotus Renault GP	30
10	Michael Schumacher	Mercedes GP Petronas F1 Team	26
11	Kamui Kobayashi	Sauber F1 Team	25
12	Adrian Sutil	Force India F1 Team	10
13	Sebastien Buemi	Scuderia Toro Rosso	8
=	Jaime Alguersuari	Scuderia Toro Rosso	8
15	Rubens Barrichello	AT&T Williams	4
16	Paul di Resta	Force India F1 Team	2
=	Sergio Perez	Sauber F1 Team	2
18	Pastor Maldonado	AT&T Williams	0
=	Jarno Trulli	Team Lotus	0
=	Heikki Kovalainen	Team Lotus	0
=	Narain Karthikeyan	Hispania Racing F1 Team	0
=	Vitantonio Liuzzi	Hispania Racing F1 Team	0
=	Timo Glock	Marussia Virgin Racing	0
=	Jerome d’Ambrosio	Marussia Virgin Racing	0

As far as the constructors’ championship standings, Red Bull has a very relaxing lead:

POSITION	TEAM	POINTS
1	Red Bull Racing	295
2	Vodafone McLaren Mercedes	203
3	Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro	131
4	Lotus Renault GP	61
5	Mercedes GP Petronas F1 Team	58
6	Sauber F1 Team	27
7	Scuderia Toro Rosso	16
8	Force India F1 Team	12
9	AT&T Williams	4
10	Team Lotus	0
=	Hispania Racing F1 Team	0
=	Marussia Virgin Racing	0

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Vettel Triumphs In Valencia

Bugatti Delivers Last Veyron 16.4

Posted: 26 Jun 2011 09:00 PM PDT

It was bound to happen sooner or later, Bugatti sold earlier this week the 300th and last Veyron 16.4 to a lucky guy in Europe. As a reminder, the supercar is powered by an incredible 16-cylinder, quad-turbocharged 8.0-liter engine that produces 987 hp (1,001 PS / 736 kW) and a peak torque of 922 lb.-ft (1,250 Nm). With such power available, the car can do the 0-62 mph sprint in only 2.5 seconds, before reaching a top speed of 253 mph (407 km/h).

Bugatti will still continue to produce the Grand Sport version of the Veyron until all 150 units will be sold.

Source: Bugatti via WCF

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Bugatti Delivers Last Veyron 16.4

RPMGO Car Blog

2011-06-26T05:06:00.001-07:00

RPMGO Car Blog

Vettel Wins Pole In Valencia

Posted: 26 Jun 2011 03:06 AM PDT

S. Vettel managed yesterday to win his seventh pole position of the season in a qualifying session that was dominated by the Red Bull team. Initially, Lewis Hamilton took over 1st place in Q3 with a time of 1m 37.380s, but the current world champion replied with a time of 1m 36.975s and nothing changed after that.

While Lewis was trying to get back on top again, Vettel's teammate Mark Webber did a lap in 1m 36.163s, grabbing second place and throwing Hamilton on the 3rd spot. Ferrari's Alonso had to settle for fourth place with a time of 1m 37.454s, ahead of his teammate Felipe Massa that did his fastest lap in 1m 37.535s.

Here are the full results of the qualifying session in Valencia:

Pos	No	Driver	Team	Q1	Q2	Q3	Laps
1	1	Sebastian Vettel	RBR-Renault	1:39.116	1:37.305	1:36.975	15
2	2	Mark Webber	RBR-Renault	1:39.956	1:38.058	1:37.163	19
3	3	Lewis Hamilton	McLaren-Mercedes	1:39.244	1:37.727	1:37.380	13
4	5	Fernando Alonso	Ferrari	1:39.725	1:37.930	1:37.454	20
5	6	Felipe Massa	Ferrari	1:38.413	1:38.566	1:37.535	20
6	4	Jenson Button	McLaren-Mercedes	1:39.453	1:37.749	1:37.645	14
7	8	Nico Rosberg	Mercedes	1:39.266	1:38.373	1:38.231	15
8	7	Michael Schumacher	Mercedes	1:39.198	1:38.365	1:38.240	18
9	9	Nick Heidfeld	Renault	1:39.877	1:38.781		17
10	14	Adrian Sutil	Force India-Mercedes	1:39.329	1:39.034		14
11	10	Vitaly Petrov	Renault	1:39.690	1:39.068		14
12	15	Paul Di Resta	Force India-Mercedes	1:39.852	1:39.422		16
13	11	Rubens Barrichello	Williams-Cosworth	1:39.602	1:39.489		19
14	16	Kamui Kobayashi	Sauber-Ferrari	1:40.131	1:39.525		17
15	12	Pastor Maldonado	Williams-Cosworth	1:39.690	1:39.645		10
16	17	Sergio Perez	Sauber-Ferrari	1:39.494	1:39.657		13
17	18	Sebastien Buemi	STR-Ferrari	1:39.679	1:39.711		8
18	19	Jaime Alguersuari	STR-Ferrari	1:40.232			5
19	20	Heikki Kovalainen	Lotus-Renault	1:41.664			10
20	21	Jarno Trulli	Lotus-Renault	1:42.234			9
21	24	Timo Glock	Virgin-Cosworth	1:42.553			9
22	23	Vitantonio Liuzzi	HRT-Cosworth	1:43.584			10
23	25	Jerome DAmbrosio	Virgin-Cosworth	1:43.735			6
24	22	Narain Karthikeyan	HRT-Cosworth	1:44.363			9

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Vettel Wins Pole In Valencia

RPMGO Car Blog

2011-06-25T05:03:00.001-07:00

RPMGO Car Blog

Spy Shots – 2012 BMW M6
Toyota Avensis Tourer Will Be Exported To Japan
F1 Might Opt For Turbocharged V6 Engines
Lexus LS 600h Landaulet Revealed
South Africa Gets Special Edition Fiat 500
Chevrolet Reveals Beat EV Concept
BMW M3 CRT, Details Emerge

Spy Shots – 2012 BMW M6

Posted: 25 Jun 2011 12:00 AM PDT

2012 BMW M6

Our colleagues from Carscoop have managed to grab a few spy shots with the 2012 BMW M6 which will have the same engine as the soon-to-be-released M5, a V8 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged unit. This engine will produce 560 hp and will have a peak torque of 502 lb.-ft (680 Nm).

2012 BMW M6

All this power will be sent to the rear wheels via a 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission Drivelogic. The U.S. market might also get an optional classic 6-speed manual gearbox. In addition, the car will sport an electronically controlled multi-plate limited slip differential.

2012 BMW M6

As we can see from these photos, the car will get bigger wheels and brake discs, along with a new design for the front bumper, which will feature more generous air dams. The side skirts will also be redesigned, along with the rear bumper that will come with quad exhaust tips and a new place for the reflectors.

Source: Carscoop

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Spy Shots – 2012 BMW M6

Toyota Avensis Tourer Will Be Exported To Japan

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 11:30 PM PDT

Toyota Avensis Tourer

Toyota is exporting the Avensis model to 47 countries and they are about to add another one to that list, its own home market, Japan. The car is built in Burnaston, Derbyshire, United Kingdom and this decision was taken after increasing demand from Japanese customers who like the European engineering and styling of the Avensis.

They will export only the station wagon version, named Tourer. The car will be available only with a 2.0-liter engine mated to a Multidrive S CVT gearbox. The exports will commence next month and Toyota said that they'll ship 750 cars / month.

Source: Toyota via Carscoop

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Toyota Avensis Tourer Will Be Exported To Japan

F1 Might Opt For Turbocharged V6 Engines

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 11:00 PM PDT

It was only a couple of weeks ago when the World Motor Sport Council confirmed the new engine rules for the 2013 season in Formula 1. However, things might change until then as auto manufacturers do not agree with the inclusion of 4-cylinder engines as they want something more aggressive, most likely turbocharged 1.6-liter V6 units.

The approval of the council was made on June 3rd at Barcelona and included a provision allowing a vote in order to delay the implementation of these new rules. This decision gave those who do not want 4-cylinder engines (Ferrari, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Cosworth and others) an opportunity to try to change things.

According to unnamed sources, F1 cars will be powered by 6-cylinder engines starting with the 2014 season. It seems that the commission did not agree with the proposition of allowing the teams to use various engine configurations – it would have been very interesting in my opinion.

Bernie Ecclestone, who is the F1 commercial rights holder, did not agree with the implementation of 4-cylinder engines as he wants the same normally-aspirated 2.4-liter V8 engines that power current cars.

These new V6 engines will feature a lot of fuel saving technologies, along with the KERS system and a limited rpm.

Source: Inside Line

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F1 Might Opt For Turbocharged V6 Engines

Lexus LS 600h Landaulet Revealed

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 10:30 PM PDT

Lexus LS 600h Landaulet

The Japanese automaker Lexus has revealed this week its one-off custom-built limousine that will be used on July 2nd for the wedding of Prince Albert of Monaco. This exquisite LS 600h Landaulet model features a specially made one-piece transparent polycarbonate roof, which will be used as the official car of the wedding.

Lexus LS 600h Landaulet

Carat Duchatelet, a Belgian coachbuilder, was in charge of converting the Lexus 600h into this elegant Landaulet limo and I think that they've done an awesome job. The entire project took about 2,000 hours to complete and involved several computer-aided design calculations, simulations and tridimensional modeling.

Lexus LS 600h Landaulet

The bodyshell of the car features Kevlar and carbon fiber honeycomb structures which were necessary in order to reinforce the vehicle. That elegant Midnight Blue livery was hand applied while the roof was created in partnership with a French firm that is specialized in creating these components for the aerospace industry. That roof weighs only 26 kg and is 8 mm thick.

Lexus LS 600h Landaulet

During the ceremony, the car will be driven in electric mode and once the wedding is over it will be displayed in Monaco at the Media Center and at the Oceanographic Museum.

Lexus LS 600h Landaulet

I'm very curious about the price for this one-off car but Lexus did not mention anything about it unfortunately.

Lexus LS 600h Landaulet

Source: Lexus via ZerCustoms

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Lexus LS 600h Landaulet Revealed

South Africa Gets Special Edition Fiat 500

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 10:00 PM PDT

Fiat 500 150th Limited Edition

In 2011, Italy celebrates 150th years since the unification and in order to celebrate this important milestone, Fiat has revealed a lot of anniversary editions for most of its models. Their latest one is a South Africa-only Fiat 500 special edition.

Fiat 500 150th Limited Edition

Dubbed the 150th, customers will be able to choose from one of the three colors available: Funk White, Pasadoble Red or Bossa Nova White. The cars will get bespoke 15-inch alloys and special badging.

Fiat 500 150th Limited Edition

As far as the interior cabin is concerned, the Fiat 500 150th limited edition gets two-tone sport seats, special floor mats and an updated instrument cluster.

The car is motivated by a 1.4-liter power unit that produces 100 hp (101 PS / 74 kW) and has a peak torque of 97 lb.-ft (131 Nm), enough for a 0-62 mph sprint in 10.5 seconds and a top speed of 113 mph (182 km/h).

Fiat 500 150th Limited Edition

Fiat is going to make only 28 units of this model and the starting price will be R152, 480 (including taxes).

Source: Fiat via WCF

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South Africa Gets Special Edition Fiat 500

Chevrolet Reveals Beat EV Concept

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 09:30 PM PDT

Chevrolet Beat EV

Created in order to celebrate the World Environment Day, Chevrolet unveiled in India the Beat Battery Electric Vehicle (aka BEV). This tiny green car comes with a 20 kWh lithium-ion battery that sends power to an electric motor that generates 60 hp (61 PS / 45 kW). With this configuration, the car has a driving range of up to 81 miles (130 km) and charging up the battery requires less than 8 hours when using a 240V outlet.

No word about a product version, but the engineers from Chevrolet will evaluate this prototype in order to come up with new ways of making EV technologies more affordable.

Source: GM via WCF

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Chevrolet Reveals Beat EV Concept

BMW M3 CRT, Details Emerge

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 09:00 PM PDT

BMW M3 CRT

A new variant of the BMW M3 will be out soon and the German automaker has released an initial teaser and some details. Dubbed M3 CRT (aka Carbon Racing Technology), this special 3-Series is going to be the most extreme M3 of this generation (E92). In comparison to a stock M3, the new CRT will be 100 lbs (45 kg) lighter thanks mostly to the inclusion of a hood and roof made out of carbon fiber, along with a titanium exhaust system.

BMW M3 CRT

Design-wise, the M3 CRT will feature blacked out dual kidney grills that have matching bonnet vents. The fender side blades are going to be accented in red while the luggage lid spoiler is made out of carbon fiber. Inside the cabin, the car will benefit from special rear seats, while the door panels and door sills will get aluminum and carbon fiber decorative trim.

BMW M3 CRT

At the moment we don't have official information regarding the power plant which will motivate the BMW M3 CRT, but taken into consideration the one in the GTS Coupe, we should see a V8 4.4-liter unit, based on the stock 4.0-liter on the standard M3. This engine generates 444 hp (450 PS / 331 kW), mated to a 7-speed dual clutch gearbox (M-DCT). It will do the 0-62 mph sprint in 4.4 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 180 mph (290 km/h).

BMW M3 CRT

The car rides on the same 19-inch aluminum rims that we've seen in the aforementioned GTS Coupe, wrapped around in tires that measure 245/35 in the front and 265/30 out in the back. To stop the car, the German engineers have installed front disc brakes that measure 378 x 32 mm and rear brakes that measure 380 x 28 mm.

BMW M3 CRT

As you might have expected this already, the BMW M3 CRT is going to be a limited edition. They are going to make only 67 units and all of them will be sold to well-connected customers. In Germany, the price tag will be 130,000 Euros (including VAT).

Source: BMW via WCF

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BMW M3 CRT, Details Emerge

RPMGO Car Blog

2011-06-24T05:17:00.001-07:00

RPMGO Car Blog

SAAB Can’t Afford To Pay Its Employees
Steve McQueen’s 1931 Brough Superior, Up For Auction
Second Generation Perodua Myvi Revealed
Rare And Beautiful 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K, Up For Auction
Aston Martin Slows Down Rapide Production
2012 Mercedes A-Class Spied
Spy Shots – Mercedes BLS
MINI Maps – a Google Maps Advergame
Switzer Tunes The Porsche Panamera
Porsche 911 GT3 By Magnat

SAAB Can’t Afford To Pay Its Employees

Posted: 24 Jun 2011 12:00 AM PDT

2011 SAAB 9-4X

We keep hearing bad news from SAAB for a few weeks and the latest one concerns the company's inability to pay its employees. Swedish Automobile (formerly known as Spyker Cars), who is the owner of SAAB revealed this week that they don't have enough money to pay the workers. As you probably already know, the Swedish automaker is having discussions with various companies in order to grab the necessary funding to keep the company alive.

Last week, on June 13th, SAAB said something about a 218 million pounds investment. This sum of money is expected to come from a Chinese manufacturing firm by the name of Youngman, who will be investing 121 million pounds, in exchange for a 29.9% stake in the company. The rest of the cash will come from Pang Da, yet another Chinese company, who will be investing 97 million pounds for a 24% stake in the Swedish automaker.

We hope that SAAB will find a solution to these financial problems once and for all.

Source: SAAB via WhatCar

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SAAB Can't Afford To Pay Its Employees

Steve McQueen’s 1931 Brough Superior, Up For Auction

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 11:30 PM PDT

1931 Brough Superior SS80

This exquisite 1931 Brough Superior motorcycle that at one point was owned by famous actor Steve McQueen as well as custom-car artist Von Dutch will be auctioned on August 20 at the Gooding & Company's Pebble Beach event, along with a Chassis 3, which is the oldest surviving Bentley in the world.

1921 Bentley 3 Litre

The auction house says that the 1921 Bentley 3 Litre is the very first car that was manufactured by the British automaker and its estimate is available upon request. McQueen's motorcycle was made famous by T.E. Lawrence (aka Lawrence of Arabia) who was an officer during World War I. The actor shared the motorcycle with his buddy, Von Dutch. The 1931 Brough Superior SS80 is going to be sold with a letter of authenticity which was written by Chad McQueen, Steve's son.

At the auction, the motorcycle is expected to fetch more than $200,000.

Source: Inside Line

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Steve McQueen's 1931 Brough Superior, Up For Auction

Second Generation Perodua Myvi Revealed

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 11:00 PM PDT

Perodua Myvi

Those who live outside of Malaysia probably haven't heard of Perodua. The Myvi is the bestselling car for five years in a row there and now it has reached its second generation. No dramatic changes have been made as the company decided to play it on the safe side, retaining the same profile as the 1st gen model.

Perodua Myvi

The Perodua Myvi shares its platform with the Toyota Passo and the Daihatsu Boon. Dahiatsu, who is Toyota's affiliate, is also the technical partner of Perodua. They reduced the proportions of the car a little bit by improving the interior packaging here and there. The car is powered by the same engine as the first generation, a 4-cylinder 1.3-liter unit, which will be followed by a new more powerful 1.5-liter engine.

Perodua Myvi

The Malaysian engineers improved the aerodynamics of the model and they also implemented electric power steering. About 85% of the components needed to build the car are made within Malaysia so the automaker was not affected at all by the terrible tsunami that hit Japan a few months ago, which is why they didn't delay the launch of the second generation.

Perodua Myvi

Source: Perodua via Inside Line

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Second Generation Perodua Myvi Revealed

Rare And Beautiful 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K, Up For Auction

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 10:30 PM PDT

1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K

This August, RM Auctions will list an exquisite 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K during an auction organized in Monterey, California. The organizers expect that this model will break the world record auction price for a Mercedes-Benz.

1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K

Back in October 2007, a similar model from the same year, which belonged to F1's boss Bernie Ecclestone, managed to fetch a whopping $8,252,201. The German automaker made only 406 units of this 540K model, during 1936 and 1939. When it was new, the price tag for this beauty was approximately $12,000. RM Auction says that in the present there are only three examples left.

If I were to guess, this Mercedes-Benz 540K from 1937 will fetch more than $10,000,000 when it will be auctioned. We'll keep you posted.

Source: RM Auctions via Inside Line

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Rare And Beautiful 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K, Up For Auction

Aston Martin Slows Down Rapide Production

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 10:00 PM PDT

Aston Martin Rapide

The British carmaker Aston Martin has decided to reduce the production rate of the Rapide in order to match the slow sales. From now on, they are going to make only 25 units every year which means that the annual output will be of approximately 1250 units, which is a little over 50% of the 2,000 units that they had in planned back in 2007/2008. Other sources are saying that AM will reduce output to only 10 cars per week.

Last month, the company halted the production of the Rapide and right after the weekend of the Royal Wedding, an e-mail was sent to the suppliers in which Aston Martin said that they don't need any more components for the rest of the month.

A couple of days ago, the automaker announced that they will be ending an 8-year production agreement with Magna Steyr from Austria in the middle of next year, which is 6 years earlier than planned. No word about the terms of the contract but if we were to believe the rumors, Aston Martin will have to pay about 10 million pounds in order to get out of this deal.

Source: Autocar.co.uk

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Aston Martin Slows Down Rapide Production

2012 Mercedes A-Class Spied

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 09:30 PM PDT

2012 Mercedes A-Class

A couple of weeks ago at the Shanghai Auto Show we've seen the concept version of the A-Class and now, courtesy of Autocar.co.uk, we get to see the production version which will be out next year. Mercedes has put a great deal of effort into the new generation as it will have to face up some serious competition coming from the soon-to-be-released replacements for the Audi A3 and the BMW 1-Series.

2012 Mercedes A-Class

As opposed to the 3-door concept seen in Shanghai, this prototype features rear doors. The production version will feature the narrow glasshouse of the concept, along with the sharply ranked front windscreen as well as the A-pillars, making it a lot more attractive than the previous generations.

The current A-Class is a compact and spacious family car but this role will be handed over to the B-Class. The forthcoming A-Class will feature a lot of interior components that will be borrowed from the C-Class. The car will be based on an entirely new platform, dubbed MFA, featuring a strut front suspension and a multi-link rear axle.

2012 Mercedes A-Class

The car will be powered by the company's current lineup of 4-cylinder engines, both gasoline and diesels, borrowed from the aforementioned C-Class, which will be modified for a transverse installation.

Upon launch, the most powerful engine will probably be the 2.0-liter gasoline engine that produces 204 hp, the one we've seen in the concept. This unit will be linked to a dual-clutch transmission, replacing the current CVT gearbox that is used in the current A-Class and B-Class models. As far as diesels are concerned, Mercedes will opt for at least a 4-cylinder 2.2-liter engine while power will vary from 130 hp to 180 hp.

In 2013 we will most likely see the AMG version of the new A-Class, featuring a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that generates 320 hp. This model will come with a four-wheel drive configuration and will rival the Audi S3.

Source: Autocar.co.uk

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2012 Mercedes A-Class Spied

Spy Shots – Mercedes BLS

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 09:00 PM PDT

Mercedes BLS

The guys over at AutoExpress have managed to take a few spy shots with the upcoming Mercedes BLS, considered to be the scaled down version of the sexy CLS. These pictures were taken in Germany and we get to see a 4-door sedan that has a few coupe design cues.

The car is based on the same technology that Mercedes-Benz uses for the new A and B-Class and it will rival the Volkswagen Passat CC and the recently revealed Audi A3 sedan. Although we don't get to see a lot of things due to the heavily camouflage, we've learned from AutoExpress that the Germans will focus on the design of the car and as a result we should expect to see a sculpted bodywork., which should look alike its bigger brother, the CLS.

Mercedes BLS

In addition, it will most likely feature a sloping rear roofline to add a little bit of sportiness, while the interior will be set up in order to accommodate four passengers and we should see individual chairs and a lot of room.

The Mercedes BLS will be powered by the exact same 1.8-liter gasoline and 2.1-liter diesel engines that you can find in the C-Class, which will be adapted for a FWD configuration. It wouldn't be a total surprise if it will be available with the 2.0-liter, twin-turbo engine that produces 265 hp, the same one which will power the A-Class AMG.

Source: AutoExpress.co.uk

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Spy Shots – Mercedes BLS

MINI Maps – a Google Maps Advergame

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 08:11 AM PDT

MINI is a surprising and "adventurer" brand and tries to keep this reputation every time it has the occasion. This time, MINI proved to be very creative, and did a really good job with the idea it had: MINI France has revealed MINI Maps, a social Google Maps mash-up advergame.

The interesting thing is that the player uses a Facebook app to create a virtual MINI accordingly to his personal preferences and then challenge his own friends to time trials on the streets just by using Google Maps mash-up. The game actually lets the player to race his friends over satellite images in different locations.

The game is totally customizable: it leaves the player to create his own tracks before getting Facebook friends into the race and, in addition, even to participate in random challenges from wherever he wants.

We think that is great that MINI has thought to integrate social media in their game and that it encourages interaction between players!

What do you think about MINI Maps? Does it worth playing?

[Source: Digitalbuzzblog, Photo]

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MINI Maps – a Google Maps Advergame

Switzer Tunes The Porsche Panamera

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 08:00 AM PDT

Porsche Panamera P680 By Switzer

Yet another tuning program has been revealed for the Porsche Panamera, this time coming from Switzer Performance who managed to increase the output of the engine to 680 hp, hence the P680 designation for the upgrade program. They took the model fitted with the V8, direct-injected, twin-turbo engine and increased the peak torque by a whopping 200 lb.-ft.

Porsche Panamera P680 By Switzer

To obtain the extra oomph, they've installed brand new turbos that have custom billet compressor wheels that feature an advanced aero profile. They tuning company said that this configuration can work with the car's stock catalytic converters as well as the standard exhaust system. In addition, they've fitted the Panamera with a custom intercooler that has a new heat sink and an increased capacity, along with a Siemens ECU tuning.

Porsche Panamera P680 By Switzer

This Porsche Panamera P680 is able to do the 0-62 mph sprint in 3.5 seconds while 60 to 130 mph is done in a mere 8 seconds. The top speed should be around the 215 mph (350 km/h) mark.

If you want to get this tuning package, prepare to pay $22,000.

Source: Switzer Performance via ZerCustoms

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Switzer Tunes The Porsche Panamera

Porsche 911 GT3 By Magnat

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 07:30 AM PDT

Porsche 911 GT3 By Magnat

The German tuners over at Magnat have revealed a couple of days ago their upgrade program for the Porsche 911 GT3, which features visual and performance upgrades. They've fitted the car with a brand new exhaust system that has sports catalysts and they've remapped the ECU.

Porsche 911 GT3 By Magnat

Thanks to these modifications, the engine of the 911 GT3 develops 462 hp and has a peak torque of 451 Nm, which should be enough for a top speed of 197 mph (317 km/h).

Porsche 911 GT3 By Magnat

The car now rides on 19-inch OZ Ultraleggera HLT CT rims that are wrapped around in Yokohama Advan Sport. Inside the cabin, Magnat installed a powerful 2,100 watts sound system that comes with new speakers which sport anodized PP membranes, 1-inch textile tweeters and high-performance voice coils. In addition, it also features a Black Core 5 channel amplifier and a 10-inch subwoofer that has a down-fire casing.

Source: Magnat via ZerCustoms

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Porsche 911 GT3 By Magnat

RPMGO Car Blog

2011-06-23T05:32:00.001-07:00

RPMGO Car Blog

[press release] Renaults equipped with Carminat TomTom navigation system
Think Global Files For Bankruptcy
Mini Coupe Endurance Goes Official
Aston Martin Cygnet Limited Edition Announced
[press release] Renault enhances young people’s image of automotive industry
Citroen DS4 Gets Price List In UK
Toyota GRMN SPORTS HYBRID Concept II Revealed
[Study] Cars – the most exciting place to have sex
Travis Pastrana’s “sexy old ladies” reply to Ken Block’s cheerleaders
Mercedes working at an app store

[press release] Renaults equipped with Carminat TomTom navigation system

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 05:24 AM PDT

Renault recently fitted its one-millionth in-car Carminat TomTom navigation system in two years.
Today, more than one in two Renaults sold worldwide is equipped with Carminat TomTom.
LIVE services offer customers the full benefit of intelligent, connected navigation coupled with innovative services and real-time information.
At €490, Carminat TomTom is the least expensive and best selling integrated and connected navigation system on the market.

Renault recently topped the one-million mark in vehicles equipped with a Carminat TomTom navigation system and is announcing an unprecedented fit rate of 38% on Clio, 77% on Scénic and 25% on Trafic.

Carminat TomTom is available today on all Renault passenger cars (apart from Modus, Twingo and Wind) and since early 2010 on all the brand's light commercial vehicles.

Faithful to its tradition of ingenious innovations that are accessible to all, Renault started working on an integrated navigation system back in 1982. It launched its first road trials on the Carminat system in 1994, becoming the first carmaker to propose fully embedded navigation systems. The systems were upgraded in 2002 with dynamic route guidance and the recalculation of journey times, for example in the case of a drop in vehicle speed.

In partnership with the leader in personal navigation solutions, Renault is enhancing flexibility and time to market while bringing customers excellent ergonomics by fully integrating the navigation system in the vehicle.

Launched in spring 2009, Carminat TomTom is upgraded continuously for ever more efficiency. Carminat TomTom received two new functions in early 2010: IQ Routes™, proposing the best route plan according to real vehicle speed and journey times based on statistics calculated every moment every day of the week, and Advanced Lane Guidance, which visualizes intersections and traffic lanes.

Navigation took a big step forward in terms of driver support in late 2010 with the launch of the Carminat TomTom LIVE. The entire Renault range is now available with four innovative connected services as options:

- HD Traffic: for the best traffic information in real time.
- Road safety alerts: real-time alerts on incidents, dangerous areas and risk areas.
- Google local search: shows points of interest from nearly 20 million references.
- 5-day weather forecasts.

Commenting, Giles Shrimpton, CEO of TomTom Automotive, said: "We are extremely happy to announce that the one millionth Carminat TomTom has been fitted on board a Renault vehicle. This figure is tangible proof of the success of our product and our partnership with Renault. We plan to continue this partnership with Renault in the long term by bringing our customer the best of our expertise."

Stephen Norman, Senior Vice President, Global Marketing at Renault, said: "One million Renault owners have since 2009 chosen an in-dash Carminat TomTom navigation system. Today, for just €490, this intelligent on-board system brings customers connected services that are highly appreciated and hard to go without once you have experienced their quality.

About TomTom
Founded in 1991, TomTom is the world's leading supplier of location and navigation products and services focused on providing all drivers with the world's best navigation experience. Headquartered in Amsterdam, TomTom has over 3,500 employees and sells its products in over 40 countries.
TomTom offers portable navigation devices, in-dash infotainment systems, fleet management solutions, maps and real-time services, including the award winning HD TrafficTM.
For the world's most up-to-date route planner, including live traffic information please visit http://www.routes.tomtom.com/
For further information, please visit www.tomtom.com

About Renault
Present on all continents with over 30 production sites and 18,000 business sites in 118 countries, Renault designs, produces and sells a broad range of innovative vehicles that with each new generation are increasingly safe and more respectful of the environment. The company is pursuing its strategy of profitable growth with associate brands Dacia and Renault Samsung Motors. Renault has a workforce of 121,000 worldwide. In 2010 it reported revenues of €38,971 million and sold over 2.6 million vehicles.

[Source: Photo]

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[press release] Renaults equipped with Carminat TomTom navigation system

Think Global Files For Bankruptcy

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 05:00 AM PDT

Think City

SAAB isn't the only car manufacturer out there that is experience severe financial problems. The situation is even worse at the EV automaker Think Global as they've filed for bankruptcy. Under the Norwegian bankruptcy laws, a trustee appointed by the court will take over the short-term operations right away at the Oslo-based company.

Ener1 is a battery supplier and they've ended their four-year deal with Think Global recently and now they are trying to recuperate about 20 million pounds, consisting in unpaid loans.

The latest car developed by the company was the Think City four-seater, which is an EV that can be driven for up to 100 miles before it needs recharging. It never made it in the United Kingdom where it would have had a price tag of approximately 23,000 pounds.

Think sold more than 2500 cars in United States and Europe since 1999.

Source: Think Global via Autocar.co.uk

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Think Global Files For Bankruptcy

Mini Coupe Endurance Goes Official

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 04:18 AM PDT

Mini Coupe Endurance

Unveiled only a few days before the 24h endurance race at Nurburgring, Germany, the Mini Coupe Endurance is the one-off motorsport version of the recently introduced two-door Mini Coupe. The car is powered by an updated version of the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine available in the JCW model, which now generates 247 hp and has a peak torque of 243 lb.-ft, which is 39 hp and 36 lb.-ft more in comparison to the unit fitted to the road model. The top speed remains the same, rated at 149 mph.

Mini Coupe Endurance

There are no current plans of putting the car into production, but there are strong chances that this 1.6-liter engine will be upgraded for the roadgoing versions of the Cooper. We'll keep you posted.

Source: Mini via Autocar.co.uk

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Mini Coupe Endurance Goes Official

Aston Martin Cygnet Limited Edition Announced

Posted: 23 Jun 2011 04:06 AM PDT

It seems that the British automaker Aston Martin has established a partnership with Parisian fashion house colette in order create a limited edition of the tiny and very expensive Cygnet model. Only 14 units will be made and all of them are going to be "hand crafted by Aston Martin Works Tailored."

On the outside, this special Cygnet will feature a Lightning Silver paint that is going to have colette blue details, along with a race-inspired front bumper and hood livery, diamond-turned road wheels and mirror caps. As far as the cabin is concerned, expect to see a "Bitter Chocolate themed interior" (whatever that means), along with blue leather cushions in the back, Alcantara sun visors and of course, Cygnet and colette badging.

The starting price for this limited edition Aston Martin Cygnet is 43,685 pounds.

Source: Aston Martin via Autocar.co.uk

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Aston Martin Cygnet Limited Edition Announced

[press release] Renault enhances young people’s image of automotive industry

Posted: 22 Jun 2011 10:40 AM PDT

"Sustainable mobility accessible to all" is a core Renault strategy, and it is in this light that the company is taking part in the 20th anniversary of the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association, ACEA.
• As part of its 20th anniversary celebrations, ACEA is organizing a forum in Brussels from June 22 to 25.
• Young Europeans aged from 18 to 30 have been invited to the event to share their ideas and thoughts on the future of transport and mobility, under the banner "Our Future Mobility Now".
• Renault is taking part in the event to raise the awareness of young people on mobility and enhance their image of the automotive industry.

Renault, a major player in future mobility, is participating in the "Our Future Mobility Now" forum organized by ACEA at Autoworld in Brussels from June 22 to 25. Some 46 young people from 15 European countries have been selected by the ACEA project to take part in debates on the future of mobility and transport with leaders from the auto industry and the European Union. The Renault delegation will be led by Claire Martin, Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility and the Renault Corporate Foundation, Rémi Bastien, Head of Research, Advanced Studies and Materials, and Patrick Hoffstetter, Head of the Digital Production Center. They will be accompanied by three students currently studying in one of the programs supported by the Renault Foundation.

Renault's involvement in the event is consistent with its ambitious 2011 recruitment plan. The company is planning to hire 1,500 people this year on open-ended contracts in France across all business lines, including 400 recently graduated engineers to work in engineering and production.

This recruitment drive is also being accompanied by a proactive approach to taking on young people as part of work-study programs, before they look for their first jobs. These programs give these youngsters the opportunity to acquire real professional skills and find out about the wealth of trades at Renault. By end-2011 some 2,700 young people on work-study schemes will be present at the company. Renault aims to raise the share of this population to 5% of the total workforce by 2013.

In addition, the participation of Mr. Hoffstetter shows the brand's ambition to establish a leading position on the web – the preferred communication channel of young people.

As part of the exhibition accompanying the ACEA forum, Renault will be presenting:
- a Carminat TomTom Live demonstrator (the least expensive in-car, connected navigation system on the market),
- a see-through Fluence Z.E. electric car (showing the interior of the vehicle),
- an Energy TCe Concept engine.

Renault is committed to developing a range of electric vehicles accessible to all – the spearhead of its environmental commitment. Since 1995 Renault has led an environmental policy that takes account of the impact of all its activities at each stage of the vehicle life cycle. The criteria for the company's Renault eco2 signature, introduced in 2007, have been tightened this year. The most environmental and economical vehicles in the Renault range now comply with the following conditions: they are produced in an ISO 14001-certified plant, emit less than 120 g/km of CO2 or run on biofuel, and contain more than 7% recycled plastic.

In addition, Renault is preparing for the future through an ambitious objective on global warming set out in its "Renault 2016 – Drive the Change" strategic plan, namely to reduce its carbon footprint by 10% between now and 2013 and by a further 10% between 2013 and 2016.

Renault Corporate Foundation
The Renault Corporate Foundation, founded in 2001, embodies Renault's hands-on commitment to further education. It is tasked with forming lasting ties between the company and French and international academic institutions. It designs and supports original training programs on multicultural management and sustainable development.
www.fondation.renault.com

[Source: Photo]

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[press release] Renault enhances young people's image of automotive industry

Citroen DS4 Gets Price List In UK

Posted: 22 Jun 2011 10:29 AM PDT

Citroen DS4

The extremely beautiful Citroen DS4 has arrived in United Kingdom as the French automaker revealed the price list and is now accepting preorders. The first cars will be delivered at the beginning of next month and customers are able to choose from three trim levels: DSign, DStyle and the top-spec DSport. In addition, there are five engines available, all Euro 5 complaint and prices start from 18,150 pounds, while the most expensive model costs 23,950 pounds.

Citroen DS4

Speaking of engines, there are three gasoline 1.6-liter units that were co-developed with BMW: the entry-level VTi 120 HP, THP 155HP and the most powerful one available – THP 200HP. If you prefer diesels, you can choose either the HDi 110HP or the HDi 160HP.

The less powerful diesel is also available in an e-HDi configuration, along with the company's micro-hybrid technology that sports a second stop/start system which is capable of increasing fuel economy by 15% while driving in the city and reduces the CO2 emissions to only 114 g/km.

Citroen DS4

As far as the e-HDI 110HP and the THP 155HP engines are concerned, these are linked to a 6-speed EGS gearbox while the other power units get manual transmissions.

That powerful THP 200HP will allow the Citroen DS4 to do the 0-62 mph sprint in 8.5 seconds, before reaching a top speed of 146 mph.

Source: Citroen via Carscoop

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Citroen DS4 Gets Price List In UK

Toyota GRMN SPORTS HYBRID Concept II Revealed

Posted: 22 Jun 2011 10:13 AM PDT

Toyota GRMN SPORTS HYBRID Concept II

During the 2012 edition of the Tokyo Auto Salon, the Japanese automaker Toyota revealed an interesting concept study that was based on the MR2 roadster. It was a front-wheel drive hybrid sports car that was developed in partnership with GAZOO Racing. A year after that and now we see the successor of that concept.

Toyota GRMN SPORTS HYBRID Concept II

Dubbed GRMN SPORTS HYBRID Concept II, the second iteration of the model will make its first public appearance this weekend during the 39 edition of the famous 24h endurance race at Nurburgring, Germany. If you are curious what "GRMN" means, you should know that it comes from GAZOO Racing tuned by Meister of Nurburgring, honoring the late Hiromu Naruse who passed away last year, Toyota's chief test driver and the head of the GAZOO Racing Team, who died in 2010 while driving in Germany a prototype of the Lexus LFA Nurburgring Edition.

Toyota GRMN SPORTS HYBRID Concept II

The new concept benefits from an entirely new design and features an upgraded AWD hybrid system. The car is powered by a V6 3.5-liter engine that produces 249 hp, along with the electric motors that drive the rear wheels. The gearbox of the concept is mounted in the middle while in the front there is another electric motor which is responsible for driving the wheels.

Source: Toyota via Carscoop

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Toyota GRMN SPORTS HYBRID Concept II Revealed

[Study] Cars – the most exciting place to have sex

Posted: 22 Jun 2011 08:52 AM PDT

We no longer have a reason to contradict the position of cars in the main activities of our lives: besides driving them, discussing about them and even eating and working in them, cars are the most loved place where to have sex. According to a U.S. Sex Census national survey released by the Trojan condom maker, 48% of Americans expressed this.

A number of 3000 adults participated to the survey and the results revealed the top favorite places for people to have sex. On the other positions in Americans' preferences are: someone else's bed (33%), the woods (27%), the beach or sea (23%), a hot tub (22%).

Another means of transportation, the plane, is not in women's choice, while only 33% of men picked up the mile-high club.

These details are part of an actually quite complex study, with some other interesting details. If you want to find out more, you can check the report.

So, is the car the most exciting place to have sex for you too?

[Source: USA today]

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[Study] Cars – the most exciting place to have sex

Travis Pastrana’s “sexy old ladies” reply to Ken Block’s cheerleaders

Posted: 22 Jun 2011 07:51 AM PDT

This is the debut of Travis Apstrana's new Subaru WRX for the next X-Games. The video is clearly the answer to Ken Block's revealing of his WRC Ford Fiesta in which sexy cheerleaders appear. How did Pastrana choose to do this? By using his personal set of "cheerleader", only that their combined age is of 199.

Even if on some levels this video is a little bit disturbing, the parody is quite good and amusing. If this is Travis Pastrana's start, who knows what he will come up with in the next months, when he will reveal his heavy arsenal.

You can watch the video by clicking the start button below:

What is your opinion?

[Source: Jalopnik]

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Travis Pastrana's "sexy old ladies" reply to Ken Block's cheerleaders

Mercedes working at an app store

Posted: 22 Jun 2011 06:17 AM PDT

Connecting to internet is becoming mainstream and Mercedes want to take advantage of that and establish a new trend for their industry: they are working at an app store, actually one of the first app stores offered by automakers.

The information about their intention came from Mercedes design chief, Gorden Wagener, during an interview for a magazine:
“We have our own telematics research and graphics pre-development operation in Palo Alto (California). In addition, we can imagine developing a so-called ‘Mercedes App Store,’ with apps that make the life of the Mercedes driver even more comfortable. (…) It will take a while before we bring this into cars across the board. The big issue here is the infrastructure. Without a data infrastructure that permits fairly high transmission speeds into the car, it’s no fun and it doesn’t make sense.”

By creating this service app, Mercedes hopes to get a closer relation to its customers.

With no relation to the subject, Mercedes have 200 employees working on its design team, while another 30 stylists work for sister brand Lamborghini or on auto accessories. A fairly large number, I'd say.

So, what do you think about Mercedes' idea of app store?

[Source: Autonews, Photo]

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Mercedes working at an app store

RPMGO Car Blog

2011-06-22T05:22:00.001-07:00

RPMGO Car Blog

New Details About The 2013 Mini Cooper Emerge
Mercedes C63 AMG Sets World Drift Record
Strand Craft 122 Super Yacht Rendered
EDF Energy Teams Up With PSA
Cars team up again with femininity – 2011 Porsche 911 GT3 by Autodynamica Performance
Android app to Learn of your Driving Pattern – from BMW
Peugeot Launches 107 Sportium Special Edition
2012 Chevrolet Sonic Gets Price List
Audi Q4 Under Development
More Efficient Audi A1 1.6 TDI Hits UK

New Details About The 2013 Mini Cooper Emerge

Posted: 21 Jun 2011 12:47 PM PDT

2013 MINI Cooper

We've learned from our colleagues at AutoExpress.co.uk that the next generation of the Mini Cooper which should be out sometime in 2013 will be styled by Anders Warming. The new look will be more dramatic, featuring an upward-sweeping shoulder line, a steeply raked windscreen and a prominent front grille.

The new Mini will ride on an all-new front wheel drive platform that will be a little bit larger in comparison to the one on the current model. We don't have in depth details about this but we can tell you that it will probably be flexible enough to spawn a 5-door hatchback, most likely the next generation of the Clubman.

The car will probably get a 3-cylinder 1.5-liter engine that generates 128 hp (130 PS / 96 kW) and 148 hp (150 PS / 110 kW) in diesel and gasoline variants, respectively. In addition, it will be available with a couple of engines borrowed from the BMW 1-Series in the form of some 4-cylinder 2.0-liter units, but nothing is certain at the moment. Lastly, the new Mini Cooper will get a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine that will deliver 178 hp (180 PS / 132 kW) for the S version and 217 hp (220 PS / 162 kW) for the John Cooper Works (JCW) model.

The 2013 Mini Cooper will make its first appearance sometime next year at an important international motor show and will hit the dealerships the following year. We'll keep you posted when more information will become available. Stay tuned.

Source: Auto Express | Photo: WCF

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New Details About The 2013 Mini Cooper Emerge

Mercedes C63 AMG Sets World Drift Record

Posted: 21 Jun 2011 12:33 PM PDT

If you were wondering what car you should get to do a little bit of drifting, look no further as we have the answer: Mercedes C63 AMG. The one you see in this video was driven by Mauro Calo who managed to set the world drift record, drifting for 7,572 feet (2,308 meters, 394 meters than the old record) by doing almost eight laps of the handling circuit at the Mercedes-Benz World in Surrey, United Kingdom.

Source: Mercedes-Benz via WCF

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Mercedes C63 AMG Sets World Drift Record

Strand Craft 122 Super Yacht Rendered

Posted: 21 Jun 2011 12:23 PM PDT

Strand Craft 122 Super Yacht

If you like big and luxurious yachts, you'll certainly love the Strand Craft 122 Super Yacht. Unlike other similar beauties, this one has a pretty interesting feature – a built-in parking space for its very own supercar. Featuring a smooth exterior appearance and luxurious interior furnishings, the Strand Craft 122 carries as cargo a beautiful sports car that looks gorgeous.

Strand Craft 122 Super Yacht

This yacht features twin Rolls-Royce engines, enough to push it up to 55 knots, while the car benefits from a V12 power unit, capable of developing 880 hp, which should be enough for a top speed of 230 mph.

Strand Craft 122 Super Yacht

Unfortunately, these are only renderings, but we can dream, can't we?

Source: TheCoolList

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Strand Craft 122 Super Yacht Rendered

EDF Energy Teams Up With PSA

Posted: 21 Jun 2011 12:04 PM PDT

Citroen C-Zero / Peugeot iOn

It seems that EDF Energy has formed a partnership with the French automakers Peugeot and Citroen in order to offer residential and fleet customers EV charging services with the sale of every Citroen C-Zero and Peugeot iOn. This partnership will lead to a one-stop-shop for clients who will benefit from convenient and safe recharging solutions for their electric cars.

In the first phase of this collaboration, EDF Energy promises to offer a residential package which will allow owners of the iOn and C-Zero models to fill up the batteries from home and this will come with a free site survey. EDF Energy mentioned that after a dedicated charge point is installed, the drivers will take advantage from the quicker recharge times which will allow filling up the batteries 35% faster than before. This package will cost 799 pounds.

Households will be able to save precious money by getting 20% cheaper electricity during weekends and evenings thanks to EDF's low carbon charge point package, dubbed Eco 20:20. The company has made a research from which they've learned that 66% of the home charging is done during evenings and in weekends.

If you buy a Citroen C-Zero or a Peugeot iOn, you'll spend only 1.92 pounds for charging the battery, which is about 3 pence / mile, considerably less in comparison to 16 pence / mile for gasoline.

This is a partnership from which all involved parties will benefit and we certainly hope that we'll see more of them soon and in other countries as well.

Source: NextGreenCar

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EDF Energy Teams Up With PSA

Cars team up again with femininity – 2011 Porsche 911 GT3 by Autodynamica Performance

Posted: 21 Jun 2011 09:03 AM PDT

I don't know how this is possible, but apparently women cannot stay away from super-cool cars, and either cars from women. It's like a silent long-term partnership that activates itself exactly when at the right moment and always with the right woman / car nearby.

Such an example is Porsche 911 GT3 modified by Autodynamica and his sexy partner Shellee Nemeckek, a Texas model. The result: a provocative photo-shoot and an aroused guilty pleasure.

So, let us be clear about the characters involved into this situation: we have one super-hot model and a Porsche 911 GT3. The latter carries a new tuning package, with an electric program for the engine ($1,400), also offering a new set of Brembo brakes ($4,990), a new exhaust system ($4,075), and a new set of wheels of 19″ and 21″ ($2345).

What do you think about the pictures or about the car?

[Source: Topspeed]

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Cars team up again with femininity – 2011 Porsche 911 GT3 by Autodynamica Performance

Android app to Learn of your Driving Pattern – from BMW

Posted: 21 Jun 2011 08:56 AM PDT

The Android market is constantly growing and BMW could not have ignored its usefulness. So, the German car maker created the BMW Evolve app for its BMW ActiveE electric vehicle. The app is quite interesting, as it analyzes the driver's pattern while being behind the wheel and determines whether the car will be able or not to adapt to driving habits of each.

The process is simple: download the app, launch, tap and drive to analyze driving patterns, log into a dedicated website (BMWActivateTheFuture.com) and submit the results over to BMW. And then you can definitely say that you brought your contribution to the future of all-electric cars.

In other words, improving performance is for the moment in our hands. So, let's take advantage, I say!

[Source: Market.android]

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Android app to Learn of your Driving Pattern – from BMW

Peugeot Launches 107 Sportium Special Edition

Posted: 21 Jun 2011 08:04 AM PDT

Peugeot 107 Sportium Special Edition

The French automaker has decided to replace the old ENVY model with the Sportium Special Edition variant of the 107 that adds more fun and style to this tiny car while at the same time makes it more fuel efficient and eco-friendly.

This special model is based on the 107 Urban variant and comes with a frugal 1.0-liter gasoline engine that is linked to a 5-speed manual transmission. Fuel consumption stands at 62.77 mpg UK while CO2 emissions are 103 g/km, which means that in the first year, the VED tax will be free and after that it will cost you only 20 pounds per year. If this 107 is used as a company car, it will fall in the lowest BIK rate bracket at only 10%.

The special edition is available for both the 3- and 5-door models and comes as standard with the features of the Urban model: four airbags, power steering, electric front windows, remote control central locking, height adjustable steering wheel, ABS, CSC, EBFD, stereo radio, CD player (with MP3 support) and color-coded door handles. Aside from these features, you'll also get 14-inch alloy rims, tinted rear windows, AC, bespoke "white" door covers and interior detailing.

Customers will be able to choose from one of the five colors for the exterior finish: Electra Blue, Zircon Grey, Diamond White, Citrus Yellow and Laser Red. The 3-door model will set you back 9,945 pounds while the 5-door costs 10,295 pounds.

Source: Peugeot via NextGreenCar

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Peugeot Launches 107 Sportium Special Edition

2012 Chevrolet Sonic Gets Price List

Posted: 21 Jun 2011 07:52 AM PDT

2012 Chevrolet Sonic (hatchback)

I have to say that the hatchback version of the recently announced Chevrolet Sonic looks great as opposed to the sedan version which looks a little bit cheap out in the back. Anyway, with the launch of the new model, Chevrolet is reentering the subcompact segment after a pause of several years. The cheapest Sonic money can be will cost you $14,995 for the sedan version and $400 more if you want the hatchback.

For this money, you get the model powered by an Ecotec 1.8-liter engine, featuring 10 airbags, traction control, ABS, electronic stability control (StabiliTrak) with rollover sensing and a 6-month trial of OnStar.

Moving up the scale, we find the LT trim level that packs a few luxury features like the heated side mirrors and seats, 6-speaker sound system, audio controls mounted on the steering wheel, USB, Bluetooth and 17-inch alloys. The top-spec LTZ comes with remote start for the models fitted with an automatic gearbox, chrome accented exterior and perforated leatherette steering.

That 1.8-liter engine is good for 138 hp and has a peak torque of 125 lb.-ft, mated to a 5-speed manual transmission, which can be upgraded to a 6-speed automatic gearbox if you are willing to pay $1,070.

Those who choose the LT or LTZ trim level can opt for a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine with a 6-speed manual transmission which will cost you $700 more.

The 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will have to face up some serious competition coming from the Nissan Sentra, which is a little bit more expensive as its base price is $16,060, but it comes with a more powerful 2.0-liter engine that produces 140 hp. Another rival is the popular Hyundai Accent, a model that comes with a 1.6-liter GDI 4-cylinder engine that packs 138 hp, which will set you back only $12,445 for the base version.

As far as the hatchback is concerned, it will run up against the popular Ford Fiesta (priced from $15,500), the Honda Fit ($15,100) and the Toyota Yaris which has a base price of $13,115.

Source: Chevrolet

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2012 Chevrolet Sonic Gets Price List

Audi Q4 Under Development

Posted: 21 Jun 2011 07:36 AM PDT

If we were to believe our colleagues from Autocar.co.uk, the German automaker Audi is working on expanding its lineup of SUVs with three brand new models: the Q2, Q4 and Q6. The first one that will hit the streets will be the Q4, which will most likely be a sportier version of the available Q5 model, aimed to rival the Range Rover Evoque and why not, the Porsche Cajun. The car will be launched sometime in 2014 or 2015.

The Audi Q4 will be based on the current MLB – Modularen LangsBau architecture, the same one used for the Q5, which will also spawn the aforementioned Cajun from Porsche, yet another compact-sized sport utility vehicle. Taking into consideration that it will share its architecture with the Q5, the new Q4 will probably have just about the same dimensions so expect to see an SUV measuring 4,650 mm in length, 1,800 mm in width and a wheelbase of 2,810 mm. However, it will certainly come with a changed roofline, one that will mimic a fastback and will be lower, at about 1,600 mm.

The entry-level model will probably be powered by a 2.0 TFSI engine that has 211 PS. In addition, there are also going to be two more powerful engines in the form of a turbocharged V6 3.0-liter unit with 333 PS and a V6 TDI 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged diesel that produces 312 PS. Of course, a hybrid version is also in the works, one that will consist of a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with 211 PS and an electric motor that generates 35 PS.

Source: Autocar.co.uk

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Audi Q4 Under Development

More Efficient Audi A1 1.6 TDI Hits UK

Posted: 21 Jun 2011 07:14 AM PDT

Audi A1 1.6 TDI

If you live in the United Kingdom and you want to avoid paying the road tax and the congestion charge, you can opt for the recently introduced Audi A1 1.6 TDI which can be yours for at least 14,480 pounds. They managed to reduce the CO2 emissions down to 99 g/km in comparison to the older one that had 105 g/km by optimizing the fuel system and the ECU. The A1's combined fuel economy is rated at 74.3 mpg (in comparison to 70.6 mpg).

This frugal Audi A1 is powered by a 1.6 TDI engine that produces 104 hp (105 PS / 77 kW) and has a peak torque of 184 lb.-ft (250 Nm), allowing the car to do the 0-62 mph sprint in 10.5 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 118 mph (190 km/h).

PS: It all sounds great but I'd still get a gasoline engine…

Source: Audi UK via WCF

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More Efficient Audi A1 1.6 TDI Hits UK

RPMGO Car Blog

2011-06-21T05:20:00.000-07:00

RPMGO Car Blog

Saab 9-5 SportWagon Revealed
Mercedes GLS In The Works
Wetterauer Tuning For The Mini Countryman
2012 Mercedes SLK by Carlsson
“Saudi Women taking the wheel” campaign in progress
iPadd app for American Airlines Instead of Navigation Charts
[press release] MINI John Cooper Works WRC ride in store for one lucky fan

Saab 9-5 SportWagon Revealed

Posted: 20 Jun 2011 12:56 PM PDT

Saab 9-5 SportWagon

The Swedish automaker SAAB revealed a few days ago the new 9-5 SportWagon model, set to go on sale in United Kingdom this fall, with a base price of 28,195 pounds for the 2.0 TiD Vector SE model that provides 160 hp.

From the looks of the car, the new 9-5 SportWagon promises to be a serious load carrier, offering a boot capacity of 520 liters and if you put down the rear seats, the capacity grows to an impressive 1600 liters. Speaking of the seats in the back, they can be folded down onto the seat squabs and according to the company; the flat-sided load bay will be "over six feet long." As standard, you get a U-rail in the boot for securing your luggage and aluminum roof rails.

The new generation of the model benefits from the start/stop technology as standard, which means that the CO2 output is down. For example, the entry-level model with the diesel engine and manual gearbox returns 125 g/km in the sedan version and 128 g/km in the estate variant. For 39,195 pounds, you can opt for the top-of-the-line 2.8 V6 turbo 4×4 SportWagon model that comes with an automatic 6-speed gearbox.

Saab 9-5 SportWagon

As far as the Aero variant is concerned, SAAB has added DriveSense real-time damping control, along with variable effort hydraulic power steering as standard features. Inside the cabin, significant upgrades have been made as you now get even in the entry-level model DAB radio and satellite navigation. The Vector SE dashboard features a brushed metal effect finish instead of the rather dull black plastic that you can find on the 2011MY 9-5.

Let's just hope that they'll sort out their financial problems and come up with more interesting models like this one.

Source: SAAB via Autocar.co.uk

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Saab 9-5 SportWagon Revealed

Mercedes GLS In The Works

Posted: 20 Jun 2011 12:41 PM PDT

2012 Mercedes M-Class

If we were to believe our esteemed colleagues form AutoCar, the Germans over at Mercedes-Benz are working on a new model, dubbed GLS, which will rival what is in my opinion the ugliest car on the market nowadays, the BMW X6. Set to debut three years from now, the model will be based on the same unibody platform that was used for the recently introduced third generation of the M-Class as well as the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The new GLS model will drop the practicality of the 5-seat M-Class, opting for a more sporting 4-seat interior, borrowing some of the design cues that we can see in the sexy CLS model.

For reasons that I cannot understand, BMW managed to sell a whopping 120,000 units of its awful X6 model since it was introduced back in 2009. The GLS will have to face some serious competition, not only from the X6, but also from the Audi Q6, which is scheduled for a 2016 release and the new generation of the Range Rover Sport, set to debut in 2013.

Other leaked information would have to be that the all-new GLS will be powered by V6 3.5-liter and V8 gasoline engines, along with a V6 3.0-liter diesel. The German automaker is also working on a hybrid (diesel-electric) variant that will get many of its components from the E300 Hybrid which will be revealed this September at the Frankfurt Motor Show. It is safe to assume that an AMG version will also be launched, probably one featuring a V8 turbocharged 5.5-liter power unit if the rumors turn out to be true.

The Mercedes GLS will be assembled at the firm's North American factory, located in Alabama, where they also make the M-Class.

PS: I'll never understand why anyone would want an SUV with sporty lines.

Source: Autocar.co.uk

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Mercedes GLS In The Works

Wetterauer Tuning For The Mini Countryman

Posted: 20 Jun 2011 12:24 PM PDT

Wetterauer Mini Countryman

The German tuners over at Wetterauer have come up with a tuning for the All4 all-wheel-drive version of the Mini Countryman S, the one that provides 184 hp and a peak torque of 240 Nm. They managed to increase the output of the engine to 235 PS and 355 Nm of torque by adding a carbon air box, reprogramming the ECU and installing a bespoke exhaust system with 200 cells sports cat as well as matt colored ceramic end pipes.

Wetterauer Mini Countryman

As you can see from these pictures, the car has a rather odd matt brown and carbon exterior finish. I have to admit that the wheels are pretty nice, measuring 8,5×18-inch. Developed by ATS, these rims are wrapped around Bridgestone Potenza tires.

Wetterauer Mini Countryman

Another modification that they've made to the Countryman is installing H&R suspension springs in order to improve the handling capabilities of the car. As far as the interior cabin is concerned, the Countryman features an iPad multimedia dock and exquisite English leather upholstery.

No word about the price yet, but we'll keep you updated once Wetterauer reveals a price list for this tuning program.

Source: Wetterauer via ZerCustoms

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Wetterauer Tuning For The Mini Countryman

2012 Mercedes SLK by Carlsson

Posted: 20 Jun 2011 12:09 PM PDT

2012 Mercedes SLK by Carlsson

To me, as far as the design is concerned, the recently introduced new generation of the Mercedes SLK is one of those cars that looks drop dead gorgeous right from the factory line so tuners should avoid messing up with the design. Performance improvements yes, design changes no. However, aftermarket specialists like Carlsson have managed to make me think about this a little bit more in depth as their upgrade program for the SLK makes the car even more beautiful than before, without changing too much.

Design-wise, their aerodynamic kit features a new front spoiler lip that looks like it was created by Mercedes themselves, along with a rear apron insert that also looks like it was there right from the start. Other additions include the rear diffuser which looks kinda nice and stainless steel front grille inserts that probably look good only on a white SLK, like the one in these two pictures.

2012 Mercedes SLK by Carlsson

Aside from making a few subtle design updates here and there, they've also installed a bespoke exhaust system that consists of a stainless steel sports silencer that has two pipes. In addition, the SLK now rides on 20-inch light alloy rims and the suspension lowering kit brings the sexy cabrio closer to the ground. As far as the inside is concerned, the guys over at Carlsson fitted the Mercedes SLK with aluminum pedals, elegant Nappa leather upholstery, along with various carbon, wood and Alcantara trim parts.

They've made some modifications under the hood too, where the TGI engines can be fitted with a C-Tronic power kit that increases the output of the engine between 27 and 40 hp.

I've always enjoyed subtle tuning programs and Carlsson has managed to come up with just that. Well done guys.

Source: Carlsson via ZerCustoms

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2012 Mercedes SLK by Carlsson

“Saudi Women taking the wheel” campaign in progress

Posted: 20 Jun 2011 08:38 AM PDT

A few days ago we have written about the Online Campaign for Saudi Woman's "right to drive" , initiated by Manal al Sharif. For the moment, the campaign is in progress, and several videos and online reports already talk about dozens of women participating to the campaign so far. They all protest against the world's only gender-specific driving ban.

The tragicomic situation is that during the first day of protest, police has stopped one of the cars and gave the woman driver a ticket for not having a license, even though she had two international driver licenses.

Even if this seems to be a long-term struggle, Saudi women effort deserves to be appreciated. And maybe it will not take that much until they get the driving right in their country.

So, do you stand for the campaign?

[Source: Jalopnik]

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"Saudi Women taking the wheel" campaign in progress

iPadd app for American Airlines Instead of Navigation Charts

Posted: 20 Jun 2011 07:45 AM PDT

Apparently, American Airlines is doing pretty well in keeping up with new gadgets and using them as much as possible. After installing Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 tablets as part of the package for First and Business Class, American Airlines will put the devices in the pilot cabin too. This only could happen with a little help from a new test program that will use an iPad and an iPad app which to provide navigational information and to replace the old paper navigation charts.

Due to this technological change, the aircraft weight will be reduced with about 35 pounds and, implicitly, save over $1 million each year.

The FAA will offer special permission for pilots to use this iPad app.

What do you think about this idea?

[Source: Appleinsider]

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iPadd app for American Airlines Instead of Navigation Charts

[press release] MINI John Cooper Works WRC ride in store for one lucky fan

Posted: 20 Jun 2011 07:06 AM PDT

Munich. 17th June, 2011. The largest motoring garden party in the world, set in the heart of the British countryside, will be the idyllic setting for an outing of the MINI John Cooper Works WRC. This will be at the Goodwood Festival of Speed on the 1st – 3rd July and here a member of the public will get the once in a life time chance to be a passenger in one of these iconic cars while it is being driven at speed.

The lucky person, who will sit beside works rally driver, Kris Meeke (GB), on Sunday morning while the car goes through the 1.67 mile loose-surface forest rally stage, will be the winner of a raffle to be held at the annual glittering ball on the Saturday night. Dr Kay Segler, Senior Vice President Brand Management MINI, commented: "When we were invited to be part of this event, which has a worldwide reputation for being one of the biggest on the motorsport calendar, we were delighted. The affection felt for MINI as a brand is amazing, and I am confident the fans at Goodwood will give it as enthusiastic a welcome as I watched it have on its World Rally Championship debut in Sardinia. We wanted to make it even more special, so we felt giving a prize that money could not buy would be a great start."

Meeke will be driving the car on both the rally stage and up the 1.16 mile hillclimb on all three days. This event, which was founded in 1993 by the owner of Goodwood House, the Earl of March, has become a magnet for fans who come from far and wide to celebrate motorsport and all things automotive at their finest. The hillclimb, which is the main attraction, is very technical and challenging and rises over 300 feet from start to finish.

This year?s theme is „Racing Revolutions – Quantum leaps that shaped motorsport?. Priceless machinery from around the world representing two and four wheeled motorsport will be on display for the 150,000 sell-out crowd to see at close quarters.

The MINI WRC Team has been busy testing ahead of its next WRC outing on Rally Finland on 28th – 30th July. This is the second of six WRC events in 2011 that Meeke and co-driver Paul Nagle (IR) and Dani Sordo and co-driver Carlos del Barrio (ES) will take part in ahead of a full assault on the WRC in 2012.

[Source: MINI, Photo]

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[press release] MINI John Cooper Works WRC ride in store for one lucky fan

RPMGO Car Blog

2011-06-19T05:07:00.001-07:00

RPMGO Car Blog

Senner Tuning Audi A1 Announced

Posted: 18 Jun 2011 06:00 AM PDT

Audi A1 by Senner Tuning

The German tuners from Senner Tuning have decided to come up with yet another tuning program for the Audi A1. This time they chose the one fitted with the 1.4 TFSI engine and the 7-speed S-Tronic gearbox and increased the output to 163 hp (165 PS / 121 kW) and 195 lb.-ft (265 Nm) of torque. The previous tuning program had 154 hp (156 PS / 115 kW) and a peak torque of 184 lb.-ft (250 Nm).

Audi A1 by Senner Tuning

They also throw in a KW suspension lowering kit and a brand new exhaust system with double 90 mm end pipes. The car you see in these pictures is wearing a brown paintwork with Amalfi White accents for the roof arches, mirrors and those 19-inch alloys, dubbed Barracuda Tzunamee, wrapped around in 225/35R19 rubber.

Audi A1 by Senner Tuning

On the inside, they've installed a multifunctional steering wheel, new floor mats with the company's logo and a beige & black velvet finish.

Audi A1 by Senner Tuning

All of these goodies can be yours if you can afford to pay 36, 590 Euros (car included).

Source: Senner Tuning via WCF

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Senner Tuning Audi A1 Announced

2012 Toyota Yaris Goes Official

Posted: 18 Jun 2011 05:30 AM PDT

2012 Toyota Yaris

I've always been a fan of the Toyota Yaris, although I had my doubts about the dashboard of the previous generations. The 2012 model was officially unveiled by the Japanese automaker this week and what we see that the European-spec model is essentially a rebadged Vitz, the one on sale in Japan. The car will be manufactured in France and it will hit the dealerships later on this summer.

2012 Toyota Yaris

There isn't any more info at the moment, but we do know that it will be available with a 6.1-inch touchscreen display and customers will be able to choose from one of the three different power units: a 1.0-liter VVTi, a 1.33-liter dual VVTi, along with a 1.4-liter D-4D diesel power plant.

Source: Toyota via WCF

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2012 Toyota Yaris Goes Official