Opel Ampera, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 Opel Ampera, 2012

The Opel Ampera offered with right-hand drive in the United Kingdom by Opel's sister-brand, Vauxhall.

The five-door, four-seat Opel Ampera is influenced by Opel's award-winning design language of sculptural artistry meets German precision, incorporating several styling cues from the innovative Flextreme and GTC Concept show cars
The Opel Ampera's wheels are turned electrically at all times and speeds. For journeys up to 60 km (MVEG), it runs on electricity stored in the 16-kWh, lithium-ion battery, and emits zero CO2. When the battery's energy is depleted, electricity from an engine-generator extends the Ampera's range to more than 500 km.

The Opel Ampera can be plugged into any household 230v outlet for charging. GM Europe is analyzing the requirements of a recharging infrastructure for plug-in electric cars with energy companies, including Iberdrola of Spain.

Opel Ampera Gets Power and Refinement from Voltec Propulsion System
The revolutionary Opel Ampera will be the first emission-free, electrically driven automobile in Europe suitable for everyday driving. With its Voltec electric propulsion system providing lively acceleration and high levels of refinement, the five-door Opel Ampera seats four passengers in comfort, offers a useful trunk for their luggage, and features an extended range of more than 500 kilometers.

Electricity drives the Opel Ampera's wheels at all times and speeds. For trips up to 60 km (MVEG), power is supplied by the electricity stored in the cutting-edge, 16-kWh, lithium-ion battery.
While driving on electricity delivered by the battery, the Opel Ampera emits zero CO2. When the battery's energy is depleted, a gasoline/E85-fueled engine-generator seamlessly provides electricity to power the electric drive unit while simultaneously sustaining the charge of the battery. This mode of operation extends the range to 500 kilometers, until the battery can be charged by plugging the vehicle's on-board charge system into a standard household 230v outlet.

The Opel Ampera gives driver confidence and peace of mind
Unlike a conventional battery-electric vehicle, the Opel Ampera eliminates "range anxiety," giving the confidence and peace of mind that the driver will not be stranded by a depleted battery.

The Opel Ampera's battery pack will be manufactured by GM at the first lithium-ion production facility to be operated by a major automaker in the United States. More than 220 lithium-ion cells in the T-shaped pack provide ample power. The nearly silent electric drive unit delivers 370 Nm of instant torque, the equivalent of 150 horsepower, zero to 100 km/h acceleration in around nine seconds, and a top speed of 161 km/h.

Technical Specifications
    * Vehicle type: 5-door, front-wheel-drive hatchback
    * Category: Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (E-REV)
    * Chassis: independent McPherson struts front, compound crank twist axle rear, four-wheel disc brakes, full regenerative brakes       to maximize energy capture, electric power-assist steering
    * Seating capacity: four
    * Performance
          o Top speed: 161 km/h
          o EV range: 60 km (MVEG cycle)
          o Total range: >500 km
    * Dimensions
          o Wheelbase: 2685 mm
          o Length: 4404 mm
          o Width: 1798 mm
          o Height: 1430 mm
          o Cargo volume: 301 l
    * Battery system
          o Type: lithium-ion
          o Energy: 16 kWh
    * Electric drive unit
          o Power: 150 hp (111 kW)
          o Torque: 370 Nm
    * Exterior
          o Tire and wheel size: specially developed low rolling-resistance tires on 17-inch forged aluminum wheels

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Opel Meriva, 2011

 

 

 

 

 Opel Meriva, 2011

The second generation Opel Meriva, to premiere at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, will set the new standard for automotive versatility with a multitude of innovative features engineered to optimize the flexible use of space. And it is all packed in a distinctive, contemporary design.

After pioneering automobile on-board versatility with the compact seven-seater Zafira in 1999, Opel created a new market segment for small, affordable monocabs when it launched the first generation Opel Meriva in 2003. With its revolutionary Flex Space rear-seating concept, high seating position and roomy cabin, the Opel Meriva was big on flexibility yet small in size. This popular formula has enabled it to consistently lead the small monocab segment, with sales in Europe totaling more than 1 million units.

Now, the second generation Opel Meriva again raises the bar for affordable, on-board flexibility. Its FlexSpace system has been further developed to become even more intuitive and easier to use. It also introduces FlexDoors, innovative rear-hinged rear doors that facilitate access to its cabin - a premiere for a volume manufacturer. Moreover, the new Meriva features great interior storage space enhanced by a revolutionary concept of flexible center console, as well as the Opel-exclusive FlexFix system - the integrated rear bicycle carrier that is stored like a drawer under the luggage compartment.

The Opel Meriva's flexibility trademark is enhanced by expressive exterior and interior styling that carries forward Opel's award-winning new sculptural design language. Its monocab silhouette is fluid, elegant and dynamic. The rear window graphic features a distinctive wave accentuating the rear-hinged FlexDoors, improving the view for rear seated passengers, particularly children.

The new reference in on-board versatility
Increased flexibility is extended to all areas in the new Opel Meriva. In the cabin, the innovative Flex Space rear seating system introduced in the first Opel Meriva has been further developed: It requires even less effort to move the seats in their different positions or to fold them down.

Throughout the cabin, storage space is considerably increased with convenient locations provided for items commonly carried inside a car. The revolutionary FlexRail console system consisting of exchangeable storage units that can slide on rails located between the front seats provides convenient and adaptable storage for any kind of use.

Up front, the generously proportioned seats are similar to those of the new Opel Astra and Insignia. They offer a class-leading range of adjustment - 240 mm forwards/backwards and 65 mm in height - allowing people of all size and age to find optimal comfort for their journeys. Also new for Opel Meriva is the availability of Opel's unique Flex Fix integrated rear bicycle carrier.

Entering into a new era of doors
Opel Meriva opens up a new dimension in rear seat access with unique rear-hinged rear doors. The Flex Doors concept is a first from a volume manufacturer in the industry. Unlike the few well-known rear-hinged doors systems available, Flex Doors features full-sized doors which open independently without the need for a clamshell overlap by the front doors. A conventional B-pillar makes this independent opening possible, while ensuring good body rigidity and side impact protection. In addition, it has a handle that further facilitates entry and exit.

Flex Doors provide great functionality by making it easy to get into and out of the rear seat. Locating the door hinges on the C-pillar also allows more clearance for passengers' feet to swing past the B-pillar flange. The Flex Doors also open up to 84 degrees, much wider than conventional doors, for which 68-70 degrees is the usual standard. Front passengers also benefit from the same 84 degrees opening angle. Flex Doors are also more ergonomic and convenient for the front passengers to open Flex Doors when stowing a jacket, a briefcase or an umbrella behind the front seat.

Flex Doors also provide greater safety, especially for young families. Parents can reach into the rear seat more easily to help with buckling up, and children can be more safely guided when getting in and out of the vehicle. For example, when both the front and rear doors are open at the same time, a safety zone is created as both child and parent can get out of the car without a door separating them, reducing the risk of children stepping out into traffic.

Flex Doors add style to increased functionality. Stepping in and out of the vehicle not only feels much more natural, it looks cool and elegant. It's no longer necessary to twist or slide out of the rear seat.

The FlexDoors concept has been successfully market tested and evaluated with Opel Meriva customers since 2006. It s supported by an array of patented locking systems designed to optimize safety.

Monocab expression of new Opel design
Inside and out, the Opel Meriva moves forward Opel's new, expressive design language - sculptural artistry meets German precision - and adheres to the same focus on quality already seen on Insignia and the new Astra.

Opel designers created a dynamic and elegant monocab. A lower, sweeping roof-line combined with Opel's signature blade side-body motif and the wave rear window line give the Opel Meriva a fresh, distinctive character and look.

The FlexDoors invite you to an interior landscape of harmoniously flowing lines and surfaces. The wraparound wing shaped instrument panel enhances the feeling of width and roominess. The forward leaning center stack contributes to this and adds a notion of sportiness and sculpture.

The interior is appointed with six different levels of colour and trim. The widest choice ever offered on an Opel. The high standard of fit and finish of the chosen textures and materials as well as the layout and decoration of the controls is typical of more expensive cars.

Opel Meriva to launch with six environmentally friendly engines
The new Meriva benefits from a longer wheelbase, wider front and rear tracks, all contributing to improved handling and greater ride comfort.

The range of powertrains features economical and efficient turbocharged engines offering a power bandwidth from 75 to 140 hp. A particularly economical ecoFLEX version will also be offered. The Opel Meriva will offer a choice of 5 and 6-speed manual transmissions as well as a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

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Rinspeed BamBoo Concept, 2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Rinspeed BamBoo Concept, 2011

The car irritates. Could be that it's the ingenious crafted creations of world-renowned New York pop artist James Rizzi. In any case, Frank M. Rinderknecht's latest work Rinspeed BamBoo Concept lets the sun rise over the over-engineered metal creatures at the Geneva Motor Show, whose single purpose is to never touch anything other than black asphalt. Yes, this is a taste of summer. A taste of beach and sand, of the lightness and lightheartedness of southern latitudes. It is a reminiscence of the Seventies, of the south of France, of St. Tropez. Its colors range from salmon to lobster and yellow, shimmering in the sunlight, staged perfectly by color- and adhesive-repair-specialist ("StickerFix") AkzoNobel. And one would expect to find Brigitte Bardot behind the wheel with playboy Gunther Sachs at her side heading towards Tahiti beach. But at the same time this car points to the future with clever innovations such as a communication display in place of a radiator grille and an inflatable roof that also serves as a beach blanket. Yes, this sun & fun car will blow the roof off!

Anyone who might think that this is simple retro design underestimates the boss of the Swiss concept powerhouse. He reinterprets the automotive references of days gone by and evolves them into the future. He plays with man's yearning to get back to the roots, often paired with the desire to be in harmony with creation. That makes electric drive, also for the onboard foldable two wheeler for the last "mile", a must. More than just about anyone the Rinspeed boss knows how to play on strong emotions and dreams beyond the macho horsepower affectation. This is the fundamental reason why Rinderknecht is considered an automotive visionary by many.

The latest creation from Rinderknecht - jointly developed and built by Swiss engineering firms 4erC and Esoro - resembles a grown-up golf cart at first glance. But one that offers a firework of innovation and design. This successful combination is most evident in the canopy-like inflatable roof developed by Swiss company Tecnotex. It is covered with water-resistant „Skai Neptun Caleri" with nano coating supplied by the Hornschuch Company. It protects the interior against possible morning dew. Nothing but air lends the two-piece waterproof design its rigidity. While the outside of the roof is decorated by a giant Rizzi beach scene, the inside is refined by visionary spinning mill Schoeller from Bregenz with thread made from genuine bamboo. No doubt, anyone going to the beach with this mattress will easily outshine any folding convertible roof, no matter how elegant and will instantly be in conversation with their beach chair neighbors.

In any case, Rinspeed Bamboo is the fitting sun & fun car for the extroverted communicator. Personal messages for the people in the vicinity of the car are displayed on the innovative "Identiface." This screen-based section, developed by Daimler subsidiary MBtech in Stuttgart, replaces the radiator grille, which is mostly redundant on an electric vehicle anyways. Thanks to its Internet connectivity "Identiface" can display the occupants' Facebook pages, news from around the world, the manufacturer's logo or an offer for a ride from A to B. Engineering service provider Helveting with support from Zurich Versicherung custom-developed the "BamBoo-Community" platform. This platform also offers additional practical features centered on social networking, sustainability and optimal driving behavior. In combination with the famous color-changing "Rizzi bird" on the rollover bar (green = I am single; blue = I am in party mood; orange = I need a break) it creates an entirely new automotive form of communication beyond deafening noise attacks. "Rizzi bird" instead of flipping the bird.

Simple but highly refined is the interior of the Rinspeed BamBoo. It's all in a name: The sides of the Bordeaux-red bench are decorated with the "BamBoo" logo and the "Rizzi bird," artfully woven with bamboo thread by Zurich weaver Weisbrod. The center seating surfaces are decorated with Rizzi drawings, and are made from breathable high performance synthetik „Laif" material. And both rear seats are inflatable and stored in two aluminum cases on the open cargo bed. You guessed it - they too can be taken to the beach.

The puristic dashboard is in the shape of a giant breadbox - and the fine cover made from braided plastics supplied by polymer manufacturer Ticona - opens in breadbox fashion to reveal the control elements and the futuristic VDO display. The far right of the glove box houses a seven-inch HTC tablet PC "Flyer" with docking station. In keeping with the times the tablet PC and the occupants' smartphones guarantee that the Rinspeed BamBoo and its passengers are always connected everywhere. The elongated "bread bin" is flanked by Harman JBL GreenEdge speakers in an avant-garde design. The world's leading provider of premium sound and infotainment systems is focusing on connectivity with its scalable entertainment system and the "Aha Radio" application. And in the center thrones the vent of the electric high-voltage heater from German supplier Eberspächer catem. By the way the Rinspeed BamBoo is started with an army knife. Typically Swiss.

The nicely packaged lifestyle the underlying technical specifications of the Rinspeed BamBoo are easily overlooked: The four four-seater features an electric motor from the German Fräger Group (German e-Cars) with 54 kW of power. This high-torque motor "made in Germany" accelerates the 1,090-kilogram vehicle to a top speed of 120 km/h. Lightweight construction does its part: The steel chassis with horizontal shock absorbers carries a sturdy composite body combined with the use of polymer plastic materials. Henkel supplies the structural foams as well as sealants and adhesives. The entire thing sits on 17" AEZ three-spoke billet aluminum wheels with painted inserts and eco-friendly Goodyear "EfficientGrip" energy-saving tires in 17". And the operating range? The battery's capacity is enough for 105 kilometers - plenty for a fun car for short-distance traffic between hotel, beach and restaurant visits in the evenings. Speaking of range: Rinderknecht has also partnered with energy giant RWE, whose "intelligent" charging station demonstrates how an innovative infrastructure specialist tackles the issue of e-mobility. The advanced charger communicates with the car across all borders.

And what effect will Rinspeed BamBoo have in Geneva? "BamBoo" will push the reset button in the head of the observer, clearing the mind for a new way of automotive thinking. It exhibits simple, crisp lines; nothing is redundant - aesthetics in their purest form. Close your eyes and you'll find yourself cruising through pine forests and lavender fields in your mind. The little car was made for the beautiful beaches and vacation spots of this planet, making the "BamBoo" sort of a world car. No wonder that bustling Frank M. Rinderknecht wants to seize this chance as figurehead of Swiss watch manufacturer C.F. Bucherer and thinks aloud about a series production. Rinderknecht will only say this: "Yes, there have been constructive talks for some time with a number of potential manufacturers." To be on the safe side, the Düsseldorf consulting firm A.T. Kearney already has manufacturing and company concepts for a series production in the drawer.

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Noble M600, 2010

 

 

 

 

 

Noble M600, 2010

The ethos of the Noble M600 has developed from a small team passionate about driving. This evolved from our research of the available 'supercars' most of which lean heavily on computer assistance. The use of fashionable but often inefficient gear paddle shift, over assisted brakes and inopportune traction control have all become standard features of the modern day supercar.

The philosophy behind the radical and refreshing premise is best summed up by Peter Dyson, owner of Noble Automotive Limited: 'Noble is a labour of love, of no compromises and of challenges fought. The car speaks for itself, and absolutely reflects what the Team and I envision a true drivers car should be. It is no question uniquely "out of sync" in today's world, one overrun with cars that cannot make up their minds as to whether they want to be a car that rewards or a car that gives hollow praise by electronically 'covering' the errors.'
Designed and engineered with a purity that rewards driver skill, the Noble M600 is neither dictated to nor hindered by unnecessary computer assistance. It puts you back in the driving seat.

DEVELOPMENT
The development of the Noble M600 has been an incredibly intense and rewarding journey, a journey in its literal sense, we shipped the development prototype to the USA.

Crossing the continent from East to West we experienced the most dramatic and demanding of climates and terrains in order to prove and test the efficacy and engineering of the Noble M600. In company, for comparative purposes, with a Porsche Carrera GT and, for some of the journey, a Ferrari Enzo. We drove from Chicago westward; the journey included every type of environment, from the incredibly hot Death Valley in California to the mountains and snow of Utah, from the infamous Pikes Peak to the Bonneville Salt Flats, and finally, to a hot and dusty race track in Phoenix Arizona where the Noble M600 was tested and evaluated against some of the fastest and most respected supercars in the world.

DESIGN
Design is of course subjective, beauty is certainly in the eye of the beholder. However there are certain design absolutes, particularly when creating a supercar featuring such massive power and performance, which dictate, in order to have full aerodynamic and cooling efficiency certain design criteria must be met.

WHAT LIES BENEATH
The Noble Automotive take great pride in our reputation for the excellent ride and handling of our performance cars. We firmly believe that the chassis is the fundamental foundation of any performance car. This is particularly the case with cars which do not feature a great deal of computer technology. Computer assistance can often mask deficits in the chassis design and it is not until these electronic driver aids are turned off that the flaws are revealed.

There is no engineering logic which dictates that precise and effective handling should be to the detriment of comfort and ride quality. We believe that an effectively designed and engineered chassis should be able to combine both high speed capability and driver comfort. Our engineering, based on a 'back to basics' ethos, devotes a huge amount of time and resources in ensuring that the chassis is as efficient and effective as possible. This is ably demonstrated by the Noble M600, the high speed handling is superb and the ride is both comfortable and smooth.

The chassis built by hand for both safety and efficiency features:

•     * Stainless steel and aluminium tub construction with an integral safety cell.
•     * High 'H' point sill sections for side impact protection.
•     * Rear crash structure.
•     * Front boot carbon composite crash structure.

SAFETY
The Noble M600 has a massive 650bhp available, this amount of power, or indeed the power delivery, is not always either appropriate or required, however with the Adaptable Performance Control function you can select the power output to reflect both the location and suitable driving conditions.

The Noble M600 features three APC settings, the chosen setting is displayed on both the APC dial and the dashboard display. The APC adjusts not just the power output but also tailors the boost curve, traction and throttle response relative to the selected mode.

ROAD: The 'comfort' setting and represents circa 450bhp, this also supports full traction control and a gently progressive boost curve and throttle response.

TRACK: This is the mid-range power setting circa 550bhp, this setting features a little less intrusive traction, a steeper boost curve and more initial response to the throttle.

RACE: The full power setting of circa 650bhp, this allows increased wheel slip, an aggressive boost curve and a heightened reactive throttle 'tip in' to allow effective and responsive heel and toe operation.

Note: The three power settings are titled merely to title and denote the power delivered, the literary terms Road, Track and Race in no way reflect recommended use or location.

TC: TRACTION CONTROL

BRAKES
In keeping with our ethos, we were determined to give the purest and most rewarding drive possible.

In our research with other performance marques we noted that brakes were often over assisted, this resulting in a lack of 'feel' and less capability for modulation at high speed.

The brakes, developed for the Noble M600 in partnership with Alcon, feature semi-floating front disc with cast aluminium alloy monobloc calipers. The monobloc six piston front and four piston rear caliper designs ensure high strength with low weight and provide a firm brake pedal in all driving conditions. Caliper bore sizes are staggered to ensure even pad wear and the pin mounted pads provide low threshold pressure and low noise. The calipers clamp 380mm front and 350mm rear ventilated discs both of which are mounted to lightweight aluminium bells. Friction is provided courtesy of Pagid performance pads.

The wheels, manufactured by Speedline in Italy, are exclusively designed for the Noble M600, featuring forged aluminium alloy 9Jx19 fronts and 12Jx20 rears. Tyres are Michelin Pilot Sport 255/30-19 fronts and 335/30-20 rears.

COMFORT
The Noble M600 is primarily designed for speed and handling however this is not at the expense of either comfort or practicality.
The cabin features a traditional British hand built finish, with your choice of leather or Alcantara. Natural finished polished carbon door cards and centre console, hand turned knobs and bezels and fine quality wool carpets bound to the edge with leather.

The seats, designed and created exclusively for the Noble M600, are of lightweight carbon fibre composite construction which can be bespoke upholstered to individual requirements. The seats also feature carbon fibre inserts for the optional five point harnesses.

The 330mm flat bottom steering wheel is also hand stitched and can be finished in either suede or leather.
The luggage space, situated to the front, is fully carpeted and bound in leather and is both spacious and practical. We also offer the option of a beautiful calf leather travel set bespoke to the luggage area.

BESPOKE
The Noble M600 is hand-built in England and is finished to the clients exact cosmetic requirements. Each M600 will carry on the dashboard an identification plate featuring the unique build number.
During the build the customer will be invited to view the progress of the build and to meet those engineers and personnel involved in its creation.

SPECIFICATIONS
    * Top Speed: 225mph (estimated)
    * 0-120 mph: 8.9 seconds
    * Engine: Yamaha V8 4439cc Twin Turbo
    * Power: 650 bhp @ 6800 rpm
    * Torque: 604 lb ft @ 3800 rpm
    * Power to Weight: 520bhp per tonne
    * Transmission: Graziano 6 speed manual
    * Installation: Mid, longitudinal, rear wheel drive
    * Chassis: Stainless sheet steel tub with tubular space frame
    * Body: Carbon Fibre Composite
    * Steering: Power assisted rack and pinion
    * Suspension: Independent double wishbones with coil over Multimatic shock absorbers, front and rear roll bars
    * Brakes
          o Front: Alcon 380mm semi-floating discs with six piston calipers
          o Rear: Alcon 350mm discs with four piston calipers
    * Wheels: Speedline forged aluminium alloy
          o Front: 9Jx19
          o Rear: 12Jx20
    * Tyres: Michelin Pilot Sport
    * Front: 255/30-19
    * Rear: 335/30-20
    * Fuel Capacity: 73 litres
    * Wheelbase: 2540 mm
    * Weight: 1250 kg
    * Track: 1578 mm
    * Length: 4360 mm

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