Suzuki G70 Concept, 2012

 

Suzuki G70 Concept, 2012

Suzuki is showcasing the G70 at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. This model made its debut at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show as the REGINA, and it now wears a G70 badge which originates from a nickname adopted during the development process. While the goal of reducing CO2 emissions is an absolute must throughout automotive development, Suzuki also believes that A-segment models should always be customer-responsive. With this in mind, Suzuki has focused on developing an A-segment car with CO2 emissions no higher than 70g/km for market launch in the near future, featuring - as the name suggests - the G70's environmental technologies.

Though the Suzuki G70 is a petrol model, its fuel economy and emissions are on a par with those of a hybrid, thanks to its weight of just 730kg and a drag coefficient more than 10% lower than that of a Suzuki A-segment production model. It also features a direct-injection turbo petrol engine and an Engine Auto Stop Start system with regenerative braking. All in all, the G70's CO2 emissions do not exceed 70g/km.

Platform
The Suzuki G70's platform is light but rigid, since it has more curves than a conventional platform. The components and materials used in the G70 also reflect an uncompromising focus on lightness. As a result, the G70 weighs a mere 730kg (more than 100kg less than the Suzuki Alto).

The Advanced aerodynamics
The shape of the G70 means excellent aerodynamics and greater interior comfort. A relatively upright windscreen ensures good forward visibility while directing air smoothly over the top and sides of the body. Other drag-reducing details include rear combination lamps which ensure a smooth airflow toward the rear and C-pillar garnishes which steer and adjust the airflow. The G70's drag coefficient is more than 10% lower than that of a Suzuki A-segment production model.

Powertrain
The environmental benefits of the Suzuki G70's lightness and low running resistance are complemented by a highly efficient 800cm3 turbocharged direct-injection petrol engine with CVT.

Other fuel-saving technologies
An Engine Auto Stop Start system with regenerative braking saves fuel effectively by storing and reusing the G70's kinetic energy during deceleration.

The Exterior
The Suzuki G70 is not just another car with environmental features: it also has a distinctive character deriving from its "emotional" styling. The design language focuses on "premium casual", which can be interpreted as mature elegance and fine quality. The use of transparent materials and relatively bright colours creates an airy impression and succeeds in expressing the quality of a compact car with less of an environmental burden.

The Interior
A stylish, futuristic cabin incorporates a unique floating interface which provides information on navigation, audio and climate control. A transparent touch-panel display makes the information easy to read and allows easy inputs. The G70 uses the floating interface to recommend destinations and music in line with the driver's preferences - which it infers from journey data and search records. It also uses the floating interface to show friends driving nearby on a map and enables the driver to share route information with them. Driving can be much more enjoyable with this infotainment system prompted by the G70.

Technical specifications

•     Overall length: 3,550mm
•     Overall width: 1,630mm
•     Overall height: 1,430mm
•     Wheelbase: 2,425mm
•     Seating capacity: 4 persons
•     Power unit: 800cm3 direct-injection turbo petrol engine; Engine Auto Stop Start system with regenerative braking
•     Weight: 730kg
•     Transmission: CVT. Front-engine/front-wheel drive

Read More

Toyota Avensis, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 Toyota Avensis, 2012

The new Toyota Avensis builds on the spaciousness, practicality and fuel efficiency of the current, third generation model.

It features a bolder and more refined exterior design, and interior improvements to finish quality, comfort and Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH). Driving dynamics have been enhanced, and a revised grade structure offers even greater value for money. In addition to that Toyota is introducing the Touch and Go Plus, a further advancement of its existing affordable multimedia system.

The best-selling variant of the Toyota Avensis' six engine line-up, the 2.0 D-4D turbodiesel, has been revised to deliver significant improvements in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. With a tax threshold set at 120 g/km in almost a third of European countries, the 2.0 D-4D's 119 g/km brings generous tax benefits to both private and fleet buyers.

With a choice of two body styles, three diesel and three petrol engines, three transmissions and four model grades, the Toyota Avensis has been specifically tailored to the European market. The D-segment demonstrates a 70% focus on diesel powertrains, a 64% bias in favour of fleet sales and a preference for the wagon body style with over 50% of customers.

EXTERIOR DESIGN ? Elegance and Refinement
Both sedan and wagon versions of the Toyota Avensis are just 15 mm longer than their predecessors, but have been extensively restyled to give them a more elegant and athletic appearance.

The Toyota Avensis represents the first implementation of a new Toyota design language which is based on two key pillars: Under Priority frontal design featuring a trapezoid grille opening, which focuses attention on the lower part of the car for a distinctive, more assertive appearance, and a Keen Look approach for clear, intelligent and expressive styling.

A bolder, more refined frontal treatment features the distinctive new face of the next generation Toyota family. Key to the new Under Priority design direction is a change in the proportions of the upper and lower grilles, with the emphasis now placed on enlarging the latter for a dynamic, more aggressive look.
Beneath a wider and more powerful upper grille design, the lower bumper has been expressively sculpted with a strong, protruding centre section housing a large air intake to give the vehicle a wider stance.

In conjunction with the crisp, Keen Look detailing of integral foglamp pockets placed at the bumper extremities, the design gives the Toyota Avensis a wider, more purposeful stance and a more ground-hugging appearance.

Narrower, more expressive headlamps emphasise the sleek, elegant proportions of the new design. The new headlamps now incorporate Daytime Running Lights, strengthening the Keen Look styling of the new front treatment.
To the rear, the Toyota Avensis sedan features a newly designed rear bumper incorporating a centre guard. A new, sleeker, chromed license garnish design adds a further touch of elegance.

Using LED technology to emphasise the Avensis' Keen Look detailing, both combination lamp clusters and foglamps have been restyled for greater prominence and visibility, reinforcing the wide, stable stance of the new design.

New wheel treatments and an expanded colour range further enhance the Toyota Avensis' exterior design. 16" steel wheels feature a new cap design, whilst the existing 16" and 17" Fuji alloy wheels have been enhanced through new colour and machine facings treatment resulting in a dual-tone colour effect. The other 17" and 18" alloys also benefit from a new, darker colour treatment.

One new exterior colour has been added to the range; the standard Red being replaced by a deep, premium Dark Red which brings added maturity to the new model range.

INTERIOR DESIGN ? 

Sophistication and Comfort
Within a cabin already praised for its comfort, roominess and practicality, the Toyota Avensis benefits from improved perceived quality across the model range, and upgraded upholstery in a choice of new colours.

The appearance, touch and feel of the entire dashboard have been improved. The centre console layout has been redesigned to improve the switchgear layout and operability. The central air vents have been redesigned and now share the new metal paint finish of the centre console itself, and the side air vents have become chrome trimmed.

The tactile quality and feel of frequently handled parts such as the door trim gripping area, switchgear and the front console all benefit from new, higher quality ornamentation. The driver's instrument dial backlighting has been changed from amber to a higher quality white, and the rear console box lid upholstery has been changed from polyurethane to leather.

The front seatback side support shape has been redesigned for better lateral holding performance, greater comfort and reduced fatigue, and the seat upholstery has been upgraded throughout the model range.

Entry level fabric seat upholstery has been enhanced to offer higher, Sol grade trim quality, Sol grade fabric now features Executive grade trim, Executive grade fabric has been upgraded to a newly introduced Alcantara finish, and Premium grade seats are now finished with high quality perforated leather inserts for improved comfort.

Lightening the overall ambience within the Toyota Avensis' cabin, the leather upholstery is available in a choice of two new colours, Light Grey and Warm Grey in addition to the already existing Black one.

MULTIMEDIA SYSTEM ? Affordable Touch Screen Interface
The Toyota Avensis benefits from Toyota's unique range of affordable, touch-screen multimedia equipment; Toyota Touch, and the Toyota Touch & Go and Toyota Touch & Go Plus navigation systems.

Toyota Touch
Designed from scratch with all-new hardware and software, Toyota Touch is a 6.1 inch, full colour, touch screen interface which gives centralised control of numerous vehicle functions as well as connectivity to external devices such as mobile phones and portable music players.

Fitted as standard to the Toyota Avensis from Sol grade, Toyota Touch is designed to offer the widest possible range of interactive functions without the added expense of an integral satellite navigation system.

Toyota Touch & Go
Building on the Toyota Touch multimedia base unit and unique to the mainstream market, Toyota Touch & Go offers customers a full map navigation system which represents the best value for money on the market.

Available in 14 languages, Toyota Touch & Go was developed in Europe, with European customers in mind.

Considerably less expensive than traditional multimedia systems, it includes all the most popular navigation functions, such as advanced traffic coverage, and speed and safety camera warnings.
Using a compatible mobile phone, via Bluetooth, Toyota Touch & Go also offers on-board connectivity to Google Local Search -the largest and most up-to-date search database in the world.

Via Google Maps, destinations may be input remotely from home or office, and Points of Interest may be downloaded for entry as destinations.
The installation of Touch & Go also upgrades the multimedia base unit with the addition of an SMS on-screen send and receive function incorporating a contact person image display.

Several Apps are already available to download, including fuel prices, weather and parking space information.
Toyota Touch & Go has been designed specifically to be both affordable and flexible. The system can be easily updated with the newest functions, updated maps and the latest Apps, as they become available.

Toyota Touch & Go Plus
Fitted as standard to Premium grade models and making its world debut in the Toyota Avensis, Touch & Go Plus adds numerous new, advanced technology features to Toyota's remarkable touch-screen multimedia system.
It features advanced voice recognition for navigation address input, one-shot destination entry, music search and play, and phone contact search and call.

Avensis Grade
The current generation Avensis' generous standard equipment specification is enhanced by the adoption of integral daytime running lights and USB connectivity. Seat upholstery quality has been upgraded by the addition of Sol grade trim, and the sensory quality of the centre console has been improved with a new, silver upper panel and matt black lower panel paint finish.

An expanded options list now features front foglamps, and a Comfort Pack which includes cruise control, a leather steering wheel and a 6-speaker CD stereo system with Bluetooth connectivity.

Sol Grade
To the enhanced Avensis grade specification, Sol grade adds Executive grade quality seat trim, an all-silver centre console paint finish and machine-faced 16" and 17" alloy wheels. The Toyota Touch Display Audio is equipped with a rear parking camera.
Options include the Touch & Go navigation system, rear parking sensors, High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with an Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS) and a panoramic roof.

Executive Grade
To the improved Sol grade standard specification, Executive grade adds a nickel and wood centre console finish, Alcantara seat trim with leather bolsters, and a new, darker coloured 17" alloy wheel finish.

Amongst the options available are an 11-speaker Display Audio system with rear parking camera, a choice of Touch & Go or Touch & Go Plus navigation systems, High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with an Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS) on 2.2 litre versions with automatic transmission and a Pre-Crash Safety (PCS) system incorporating Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keep Assist and Lane Departure Warning.

Premium Grade
Further augmenting the Executive grade specification, Premium grade adds perforated leather upholstery in a choice of Ice Grey, Warm Grey or Black colours. Ice Grey is combined with a bright silver centre console finish, Warm Grey and Black with a warm nickel finish.

High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with an Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS), a Touch & Go Plus navigation system, an 11-speaker Display Audio system with rear parking camera and new dark finish 18" alloy wheels are all fitted as standard.

DRIVING PERFORMANCE ? Enhanced Driving Dynamics and Improved 2.0 D-4D
Further improvements to ride comfort and driving dynamics were fundamental goals in the development of the Toyota Avensis.

The new Toyota Avensis benefits from increased body rigidity, improved aerodynamics and NVH insulation, greater seat comfort, revised front and rear suspension, and an improved Electric Power Steering (EPS) system. In combination, these engineering enhancements deliver greater ride comfort, improved handling agility, and the promise of a more engaging driving experience.

The best-selling variant of the Avensis' six engine line-up, the 2.0 D-4D turbodiesel, has been revised to deliver significant improvements in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. This not only lowers the Total Cost of Ownership, but also -with a tax threshold set at 120 g/km in almost a third of European countries and the 2.0 D-4D generating just 119 g/km- brings generous tax benefits to both private and fleet buyers.

Increased Body Rigidity
The use of high-tensile steel in key locations throughout the bodyshell combines light weight with high structural rigidity. Spot welding points have been added to the rear door and luggage compartment openings to further enhance body rigidity and steering stability.

Enhanced Aerodynamics and Low Rolling Resistance Tyres
The comprehensive use of aerodynamics components throughout the exterior both enhances handling stability and agility and -through low drag coefficients of just Cd 0.28 for the sedan and 0.29 for the wagon- helps reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Allied to the use of extensive underbody covers, front and rear wheel arch spats and a rear boot lip spoiler, the new Avensis benefits from the adoption of an aero-step design to the front bumper to suppress lift and turbulence. In addition, aero-stabilising fins located at the base of the A pillar and integral to the design of the new rear combination lamps help smooth the flow of air down the sides of the vehicle and away from the rear, enhancing stability.

Without sacrificing ride comfort, handling performance, noise or braking distance, both the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions performance of 2.0 D-4D versions equipped with a Diesel Particulate Filer (DPF) are further improved by the adoption of low rolling resistance tyres.

Improved Seat Comfort and NVH Insulation
Front seat comfort has been improved through a change in the shape of the seatback side support, enhancing both initial fitting comfort and lateral support when cornering.
All occupants further benefit from substantial improvements to sound insulation in the Toyota Avensis, which help to deliver a quieter, more refined cabin environment.

The shape of the dashboard inner silencer has been changed to reduce the gap and it has been extended in the transmission tunnel area, the heavy layer dash inner silencer has been extended upwards, the heavy layer floor carpet has been extended towards the inner dash silencer, and sound absorption material has been added to the fresh air duct.

The additional insulation significantly reduces noise transmission from the engine bay, most notably in conjunction with the noise reduction improvements to the turbo charger, glow control and combustion chambers of the 2.0 D-4D engine.

Read More

Chrysler 200 S, 2011

 

 

 

Chrysler 200 S, 2011

The new Chrysler 200 series vehicles provide customers elegant, well-crafted mid-size vehicles with an extraordinary level of standard content and an exhilarating driving experience. From the ground up, the new 2011 Chrysler 200 sedan and convertible have been redesigned and upgraded to deliver great American design and engineering, with a value proposition that exceeds expectations.

The Chrysler 200 S Sedan
With an elegant style, refined ride and handling characteristics, an exquisitely-crafted interior, a new powertrain and an abundance of standard safety features, the Chrysler 200 sedan is beautifully inspired and a remarkable value. The Chrysler 200 provides drivers a little more style and elegance in segment traditionally known for its "sea of sameness."

Distinctive exterior design elements exclusive to the S model include a unique front grille with an S model-only Chrysler winged badge with a black background, body color mirrors and door handles, black background headlamps for a little extra attitude, distinctive 18-in. aluminum wheels with dark painted pockets and "S" badging.

The interior exclusive design features include a perforated leather steering wheel; leather, heated front seats with Digital suede inserts and an embroidered "S" on the front head rests; suede door trim bolsters; a black headliner and a standard Boston Acoustic sound system with a 276-watt CD/DVD/MP3/30 gigabyte hard drive media center with Uconnect® voice command.

The new 2011 Chrysler 200 provides drivers an agile, confident, handling performance in all driving situations, whether it's commuting to work, a weekend adventure on twisty roads or going out with family and friends. Virtually every part of the suspension has been re-engineered or redesigned for 2011, including 26 of 30 suspension bushings. The suspension geometry was completely re-engineered. The track is an inch wider, tire width has been increased from 215 to 225 mm and the Chrysler 200 has been lowered 12 mm in the front and 6 mm in the rear for a lower, wider, more substantial stance.

The 2011 Chrysler 200 S sedan is powered by the new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine which produces a best-in-class horsepower rating of 283 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, but still achieves an exceptional 29 miles per gallon EPA highway fuel economy rating The 3.6-liter Pentastar engine is mated to the 62TE six-speed automatic transaxle.

Cabin quietness has been upgraded, resulting in one of the quietest cabins in the segment, and allowing passengers to enjoy their conversations, largely devoid of outside noise. Noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) were reduced and 45 new sound deadening treatments were added, including an acoustic glass windshield, laminated side glass usually only found in higher priced vehicles and new sound absorption materials throughout the vehicle.

Chrysler 200 S model sedans are available to order now and will begin arriving in U.S. dealer showrooms in the second quarter of 2011.

Chrysler 200 S Convertible
The new 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible offers consumers an open-air driving experience featuring elegant craftsmanship inside and out, a fun, yet refined driving experience, innovative technology, an abundance of standard safety features and an extraordinary level of standard content. The 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible is an exciting alternative for customers who want the benefits of a coupe and the true open-air freedom of a convertible, all at a surprising value.

Redesigned and re-engineered for 2011, the Chrysler 200 Convertible is unique in the standard specialty segment as a true mid-sized convertible that comfortably seats 4 adults and has enough room in the trunk, even when the power top is dropped. Consumers can choose from two automatically latching tops, a body-color painted steel, retractable hard top, or a cloth soft top, both of which can drop with the press of a button on the key fob.

The new 2011 Chrysler 200 sedan S model brings a distinct style with a little bit of attitude for the customer that wants to express their individual style, at a price that makes sense.

Distinctive exterior design elements exclusive to the S model include a unique front grille with an S model-only Chrysler winged badge with a black background, body color mirrors and door handles, black background headlamps for a little extra attitude, distinctive 18-in. aluminum wheels with dark painted pockets and "S" badging.

The interior exclusive design features include a perforated leather steering wheel; leather, heated front seats with Digital suede inserts and an embroidered "S" on the front head rests; silver accent thread and a standard Boston Acoustic sound system with a 276-watt CD/DVD/MP3/30 gigabyte hard drive media center.

The 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible models provide drivers a fun, confident, handling performance in all driving situations, whether it's commuting to work or a weekend adventure on scenic roads. Virtually every part of the suspension has been retuned or redesigned for 2011, including 22 of 28 suspension bushings. The suspension geometry was completely re-engineered. The track is an inch wider, tire width has been increased from 215 to 225 mm and the Chrysler 200 has been lowered 12 mm in the front and 6 mm in the rear for a lower, wider, more substantial stance.

The 2011 Chrysler S Convertible is powered by the new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine which produces a 283 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, but still achieves an exceptional 29 miles per gallon EPA highway fuel economy rating The 3.6-liter Pentastar engine is mated to the 62TE six-speed automatic transaxle.

The 200 Convertible's standard safety features include: advanced multi-stage front passenger air bags, front-seat-mounted side air bags, electronic stability control (ESC) with brake assist and traction control, four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS), Brake Override, active front-seat head restraints, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) child seat anchor system, remote keyless illuminated entry, SentryKey engine immobilizer and security alarm.

Read More

Volvo C70, 2010

 

 

Volvo C70, 2010

The Volvo C70 is in actual fact two attractive cars in one. It is as much an elegant coupe as it is a sporty convertible. With the same gentle, clean lines in both versions. Above all, however, the Volvo C70 is a car to enjoy. For people who reward themselves with the best in life.

Modernised, self-assured front
With its new front, the Volvo C70 reveals traces of the Volvo S60 Concept Car that was unveiled in early 2009. Thereby the Volvo C70 is upgraded to relate more closely to the design language of the larger cars in the Volvo model range

Bodywork details such as the front wings have also been redesigned, contributing to the decidedly altered appearance. The nose is more wedge-shaped and has been given added three-dimensional depth by moving some elements of the front both longitudinally and vertically. The new headlamps and the décor around the foglamps, for instance, have been angled offset up and to the rear, at the same time as the detailing of the lower grille has been enhanced.

The Volvo C70
The new Volvo C70 launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show in mid-September 2009 has the same smart three-piece steel roof, practical seating for four adults and world-leading convertible safety as before. With an updated design and elevated premium feel, the Volvo C70 also delivers an "I want" aura of absolute world class.

The Volvo C70 is in actual fact two attractive cars in one. It is as much an elegant coupe as it is a sporty convertible. With the same gentle, clean lines in both versions. Above all, however, the Volvo C70 is a car to enjoy. For people who reward themselves with the best in life.

Modernised, self-assured front
With its new front, the Volvo C70 reveals traces of the Volvo S60 Concept Car that was unveiled in early 2009. Thereby the Volvo C70 is upgraded to relate more closely to the design language of the larger cars in the Volvo model range

Bodywork details such as the front wings have also been redesigned, contributing to the decidedly altered appearance. The nose is more wedge-shaped and has been given added three-dimensional depth by moving some elements of the front both longitudinally and vertically. The new headlamps and the décor around the foglamps, for instance, have been angled offset up and to the rear, at the same time as the detailing of the lower grille has been enhanced.

Read More

McLaren MP4-12C, 2011

 

 

 

 McLaren MP4-12C, 2011

The McLaren MP4-12C is revealed as the first in a range of high-performance sports cars from McLaren Automotive, the independent car division based at the McLaren Technology Centre in Woking, England. The 12C, and future models within the range, will challenge the world's best sports cars, benefiting from the expertise and virtuosity of the McLaren Group.

Twenty years of sports car design, engineering and production combined with inspirational success in Formula 1 have driven Ron Dennis, McLaren Automotive Chairman, to announce his plans for the ultimate line-up of technology-led and customer-focused performance cars for the 21st century. The rules in the sports car world are about to be re-written.

Through a rich modern history, McLaren's automotive division has already built the world's most critically acclaimed supercar, the McLaren F1 (1993-1998) and the world's best-selling luxury supercar, the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (2003-2009). McLaren Automotive now looks to the future with a new range of revolutionary sports cars.

At its heart, the McLaren MP4-12C features a revolutionary carbon fibre chassis structure, the Carbon MonoCell: the first time a car in this market segment is based around such a strong and lightweight racing car engineering solution and the first time any car has ever featured a one-piece carbon fibre structure.

The first car from the new company, the McLaren MP4-12C, is a high performance two-seat mid-engine model in the 'core' sports car market segment for cars costing between £125,000 and £175,000. The 12C is pure McLaren, featuring no carryover parts from any other car, and will be produced by McLaren in the UK. It goes on sale through a dedicated, worldwide retailer network in early 2011.

The Inside out
The heart of the new car is the Carbon MonoCell. McLaren pioneered the use of carbon composite construction in the 1981 Formula 1 MP4/1 model and set a trend that all Formula 1 teams have followed. The company brought carbon fibre to road cars for the first time with the 1993 McLaren F1 and then built on this experience with a carbon fibre chassis and body on the SLR manufactured to the same exacting standards, but in higher volumes.

The 12C changes this by introducing the advantages of carbon composite - light weight, high strength and torsional rigidity, and longevity - to a more affordable sector through its revolutionary engineering as a one-piece moulding. Never before has a carbon fibre chassis been produced this way.

The 12C MonoCell not only brings dynamic benefits, but also offers fundamental engineering opportunities that form the basis of the car's unique character. It has been designed to allow a much narrower structure overall which in turn contributes to a more compact car that is easier to position on the road and more rewarding to drive.

Not only is the 12C unique in its class by offering carbon technology, it also has the highest specific power output as well as extraordinary power- and torque-to-weight ratios. Furthermore, the Proactive Chassis Control system offers groundbreaking handling and ride comfort while an intense focus on occupant packaging offers new levels of comfort and everyday usability.

Antony Sheriff explained. "With the 12C we are redefining the relationship between performance and practicality, as well as performance and efficiency, achieving leading positions in both. We have designed this car from the inside out. We have a saying in McLaren - 'everything for a reason' and the 12C will surprise people in many ways.

Pure McLaren
All the parts of the McLaren MP4-12C are bespoke and unique to this car. Everything from the engine right down to the tailor-made switches and buttons is pure McLaren: nothing has come from another manufacturer's parts bin.

The 12C is powered by a bespoke McLaren 'M838T' 3.8 litre, V8 twin-turbo engine producing around 600bhp, driving through a McLaren seven speed Seamless Shift dual clutch gearbox (SSG). It is targeting not only new standards for power and performance in its sector, but also class-leading fuel economy and CO2 emissions; supported by McLaren's experience of active aerodynamics to aid cooling, grip, handling and road holding.

Adding lightness
Weight is the enemy of performance in every area of car design. It affects acceleration, speed, handling, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions - everything. McLaren Automotive engineers pursued weight saving obsessively. 

 For example:

•  The Carbon MonoCell not only reduces the weight of the structure but also allows for the use of much lighter weight body panels.
•  The close position of the driver and passenger allows a narrower, lighter body while giving improved visibility with a clearer perception of the car's extremities.
•  Brakes with forged aluminium hubs save 8 kg and weigh less than optional carbon ceramic brakes.
•  Lightweight exhaust pipes exit straight out the rear of the car, minimizing their length and weight.
•  Airflow-assisted Airbrake deployment dramatically reduces weight of the Airbrake activation system.
•  Small, compact downsized engine coupled to lightweight compact SSG minimizes vehicle length, weight and polar moment of inertia.
•  Significant weight was pared off the alloy wheels through intensive Finite Element Analysis of wall thicknesses.
•  The engine cooling radiators were mounted at the rear, as close to the engine as possible, to minimize the pipework, the fluids contained within them, and therefore weight. They were also mounted in car line to minimize vehicle width.

Design: everything for a reason
The McLaren MP4-12C design follows similar principles to McLaren's Formula 1 cars, and the legendary McLaren F1, where everything is for a reason and all lines, surfaces, and details are designed with a job in mind as much as styled. This ensures that the 12C communicates its engineering through its styling and will remain timeless as a piece of automotive design.

The market opportunity for McLaren
The market for high performance sports cars has grown substantially since the turn of the century. McLaren divides the market into segments that encompass both more comfort-orientated GT cars and the hard-edged supercars for road and track use.

The 'core' segment runs from around £125,000 to £175,000 featuring such cars as the Ferrari 458, Lamborghini Gallardo, Porsche 911 Turbo, Bentley Continental GT and Aston Martin DB9. A second segment is the 'high' category with prices ranging from £175,000 to £250,000 and consists largely of front-engined GT cars such as Ferrari 599 GTB and Ferrari 612, with just one mid-engined contender, the Lamborghini Murcielago.

The final segment is the 'ultimate' group, a sector more or less initiated by the McLaren F1 in 1993 and now populated by a select group of cars including the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, Bugatti Veyron, and cars from the likes of Pagani and Koenigsegg that followed legends such as the Porsche Carrera GT and Ferrari Enzo. In 2011, McLaren will bring technology and performance exclusive to this 'ultimate' sector into the 'core' segment.

The name of the new McLaren sports car is MP4-12C.
What does this signify? As one might expect at McLaren, everything has a purpose and the nomenclature is no exception.

•  'MP4' has been the chassis designation for all McLaren Formula 1 cars since 1981. It stands for McLaren Project 4, resulting from the merger of Ron Dennis' Project 4 organisation with McLaren.
•  The '12' refers to McLaren's internal Vehicle Performance Index through which it rates key performance criteria both for competitors and for its own cars. The criteria combine power, weight, emissions, and aerodynamic efficiency. The coalition of all these values delivers an overall performance index that has been used as a benchmark throughout the car's development.
•  The 'C' refers to Carbon, highlighting the unique application of carbon fibre technology to the future range of McLaren sports cars.

The elements of this name represent everything that the McLaren MP4-12C stands for:

•  'MP4' represents the racing bloodline
•  '12' represents the focus on complete performance and efficiency
•  'C' represents the revolutionary Carbon MonoCell

A carbon fibre heart
Light weight and performance are defining philosophies at McLaren. But outright power alone is of little significance if a car's weight saps output or if that power is unmanageable and compromises the driving experience or results in unacceptable emissions.

Fundamentally, it is critical to keep weight as low as possible. Increased customer demands for safety and advanced features all mean that shaving weight is ever more difficult. However, at McLaren saving weight remains a passion and at the heart of the McLaren MP4-12C is a carbon fibre composite chassis: the Carbon MonoCell.

The McLaren's Formula 1 carbon fibre technology then offered the company the opportunity of applying its expertise to road car applications. The first ever road car to be constructed of this material was the McLaren F1 produced in 1993, albeit in small numbers. The F1 was followed by the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren that also shared this rare expertise.

Only a handful of other cars in the market offer such technology today and all of them lie in the 'ultimate' segment. No manufacturer has brought the advantages of carbon composite technology to a more affordable sector of the market. But the 12C does, through engineering passion and a relentless pursuit of efficiency.

So, McLaren did it first with the F1, the world's fastest car for many years, then in the highest volume with SLR, which almost doubled the volume of the next highest produced carbon fibre-based high performance sports car by selling over 2,100 units. Now, through revolutionary one-piece moulding of the MonoCell, McLaren brings a carbon composite chassis down to the 'core' category, where currently only traditional metal structures are offered.

The advantages this technology brings are light weight, high torsional rigidity, a very strong safety cell, low perishability, ease of repair and extreme dimensional accuracy.

The 12C MonoCell weighs less than 80 kg. Carbon fibre contributes to the car's low overall weight and it forms the structural basis for the whole car. The tub's torsional rigidity is considerably stiffer than a comparable alloy structure.

This inherent lack of flex means the unique front suspension system, which is mounted directly onto the MonoCell, requires less compromise for flex of the suspension itself. Therefore, it is easier to develop the unique balance between fine ride and precise handling that McLaren has targeted. The MonoCell also offers greater occupant safety. It acts as a safety survival cell, as it does for a Formula 1 car.

Carbon composites do not degrade over time like metal structures that fatigue. One is able to get into a 15-year-old McLaren F1 and there is none of the tiredness or lack of structural integrity that afflicts traditional cars that have suffered a hard life. The 12C will feel as good as new in this respect for decades.

And in the event of an accident, the light weight aluminium alloy front and rear structures are designed to absorb impact forces in a crash and can be replaced relatively easily. Aluminium extrusions and castings are jig welded into the finished assembly and bolted directly to the MonoCell. Cars with full aluminium chassis use their structure to absorb and crumple on impact, which implies more fundamental damage (and expense) to the whole structure, including the passenger cell, in a major accident.

Powertrain: pure McLaren
The McLaren MP4-12C is powered by a twin-turbocharged, 3.8 litre 90° V8 engine - the 'M838T'. This marks the start of a new era in 'core' segment sports cars - smaller capacity, lighter weight, higher efficiency and more economical power units. The engine has the highest specific power output in its segment which, when allied to its low weight carbon composite chassis, delivers exemplary power- and torque-to-weight ratios.

'M838T' is a unique McLaren power unit, developed specifically for the 12C. It is compact, lightweight, very stiff, and offers an uncompromising combination of very high performance and good driveability, with excellent economy and CO2 emission values.

Taking power and emissions in combination (measured by its horsepower to CO2 ratio), the 12C delivers its power at greater efficiency than any other car on the market with an internal combustion engine, including hybrids.
The McLaren engine revs to 8,500rpm, has quick transient throttle response and delivers its abundant torque throughout the rev range. A staggering 80 per cent of torque is available at below 2,000rpm, ensuring great driveability and no need to floor the throttle to deliver performance.

And it delivers a great soundtrack to highlight the engine's performance, flexibility and driveability. The sound of the engine has been thoroughly engineered through exhaust manifold design and tuning of the exhaust and intake systems to deliver a unique engine note.

The high level exhaust pipes exit through a mixing box, rather than a conventional and heavy silencer box. All parts of the exhaust system up to the mixing box feature sandwich layer heat-shielding that helps reduce heat from the engine bay. In just an 18mm gap, exhaust gas temperatures reduce from 900°C to 300°C.

The engine drives the rear wheels through two wet clutches and a McLaren-developed seven speed Seamless Shift dual clutch gearbox (SSG).

The Seamless Shift technology offers variable programmes ranging from 'normal' for road use and 'sport' for quicker changes still, right up to a lightning quick high performance mode. In addition an 'automatic' mode, 'launch control' and 'winter' modes can be selected, the latter changing all electronic functions to suit low friction conditions and delivering maximum driver aid and support. There is no traditional manual transmission offered; the two pedal layout offered further scope to create a narrow, and therefore light, car.

The 12C's SSG is a development on the automated and sequential manual gearboxes with paddle shifts that proliferate in the car market today. The character of the transmission will engage even experienced drivers with its responsiveness and its contribution to the whole dynamic package.

With minimal torque loss, there is none of the lurch, hesitation or unpredictability that characterise traditional automated-manual transmission systems.
Design of the SSG system was driven by a demanding mechanical package that not only reduced weight and improved dynamic control for the entire vehicle, but also delivered driver benefits.

It is lightweight and compact in design and positioned in exactly the best location. The input shaft lies very close to the output shaft to help position the entire powertrain low in the vehicle. Twin secondary shafts ensure any rear axle weight overhang is minimised and rear crash performance is uncompromised. The bespoke SSG is further complemented by an entirely new control system.

The system reduces weight and benefits packaging targets, but also ensures that driving programmes and shift strategies take the driver's own inputs and uses them to directly control the engine's torque and speed to deliver performance, economy or comfort as requested.

Gears are changed using a Formula 1 style rocker shift that pivots in the centre of the steering wheel. It is actuated on either side of the steering wheel (pulling right changes up, pulling left down).

As with the McLaren Formula 1 car, a shift can be actuated either by pulling or by pushing on the rocker. The rocker moves with the steering wheel, rather than being mounted on the steering column, so that if a gearchange is needed while lock is being applied the driver does not have to fumble around to change gear.

The rocker itself incorporates an innovative feature created by McLaren engineers called Pre-Cog. The name stands for pre-cognition, literally 'foreknowledge'. The rocker on the 12C has two positions with a slightly different haptic (or feel) for each. The driver applies first pressure to the rocker and it informs the gearbox to get ready to swap ratios, thereby saving time - latency - between the message being sent and the gearbox being primed to act. The second pressure confirms that the gear should be changed and the torque handover is completed in milliseconds.

In practice the latency of the shift is virtually zero, the actual gear change time is very fast and the level of impulse can be varied according to the gearbox mode. Considering that McLaren was the first Formula 1 team to introduce seamless shift gearchanges into motor racing, it was a natural step to develop such a bespoke transmission to its sports car project.

Read More

Mini Beachcomber Concept, 2010

 

 

Mini Beachcomber Concept, 2010

MINI Beachcomber Concept crosses borders, enters new dimensions of driving pleasure, and wins over additional target groups by expanding the model range and the creativity of MINI design. MINI demonstrates its potential for additional product lineup growth and further enhanced driving pleasure with the MINI Beachcomber Concept.

The MINI Beachcomber Concept is a four-seater concept car designed for maximum driving pleasure, incorporating key features of the new MINI and combining them with the vision of a radically open body concept.

The new all-wheel drive system, ALL4, and a flexible interior make the MINI Beachcomber Concept ideal for a spontaneous and active experience. It is designed without doors or a conventional roof, and all other body elements that could limit the intensity of the occupants' encounter with their surrounding world. This allows the driver and up to three passengers to connect with their surroundings - whether cruising through town, enjoying rough tracks in the mountains, or breezing along the beach. The vehicle's space concept, partnered with a modern drivetrain technology, ensures a highly emotional driving experience.

The MINI Beachcomber Concept combines all-wheel drive, cutting-edge suspension technology, and an elevated seating position. Generous spring travel and extra-large light-alloy wheels raise the entire car to a higher level. Access to the front and rear seats is convenient thanks to the open doorways. The entry cutouts extend all the way down to the seat bottoms, allowing the driver and all passengers to get in and out in one smooth and flowing process.

The driver and passengers will enjoy everyday motoring conditions - simply because the MINI Beachcomber Concept retains its unmistakable character in all conditions. In the event of bad weather, drivers can either use the soft roof or the lightweight door and roof elements, all of which fit easily and can be installed within a few minutes.

MINI enters new terrain - with a fourth model and a complete range of innovative ideas for future.

Based on the MINI crossover vehicle that will be launched later this year in markets outside of North America, the MINI Beachcomber Concept is a symbol of the brand values packaged in a new, radical style.

Within the first decade of the MINI brand's re-launch, a fourth MINI model is set to enter the market. As a crossover in the typical style of the brand, the new model offers a new interpretation of the unique MINI design. With the functional convenience of four doors, four full-size seats, a flexible interior, a newly developed all-wheel-drive system and a high standard of driving pleasure, a MINI vehicle can now be enjoyed for the first time beyond the beaten path.

The MINI designers were inspired by the new MINI crossover production model, which they enhanced beyond the realms of urban mobility to create the MINI Beachcomber Concept. In creating this concept, they utilized the technical qualities of the production crossover model, and made adaptations to offer the ultimate expression of freedom. The result is a new open concept driving experience for all your senses, plus a greater degree of versatility than ever experienced before in a MINI.

The potential uses for the MINI Beachcomber Concept are defined by the imagination of its driver. Clearly, the most natural surroundings for this vehicle are beaches, where the MINI Beachcomber Concept, through its enhanced traction and radically open design, offers the freedom of movement expressed through its very name.

In its robust and versatile character, the MINI Beachcomber Concept follows in the footsteps of the Mini Moke, which in the 1960s, quickly became the epitome of adventurous motoring for leisure time and sports activities in sunny coastal regions.

The Unique, typical of MINI, and with a great role model from way back when.

The MINI Beachcomber Concept is the vision of a car that leaves behind conventional standards and creates momentum for innovative mobility of the future.

Individual character, a clear focus on maximum driving pleasure, and the courage to create new concepts have always set the foundation for new models in the MINI range; and the traits of this open-air, all-wheel-drive concept clearly define it from the beginning as a MINI.

The authentic style and character of the MINI Beachcomber Concept is rooted in the brand's history. MINI once offered an extreme, thrill-of-driving experience in the open air by conscious reduction to the very minimum: In 1964, just five years after the market launch of the classic Mini, Alec Issigonis, the world-famous engineer and creator of the first model, developed an all-open version of this revolutionary compact car.

The body of the Mini Moke, as it was called, was made up of little more than a floorpan, wide sills at the side, an engine compartment lid and a windshield. A folding roof served to protect the driver and passengers from precipitation.

With its robust structure and the drivetrain technology carried over from the Mini, this four-seater fun car became a great success, particularly in the sunny regions of the U.S. and Australia. Production of the Mini Moke continued in Great Britain until 1968 with a production volume of approximately 14,500 units. In the following years, production was continued in Australia and Portugal.

The MINI Beachcomber Concept now takes the basic principles of the Mini Moke into the 21st century. The rustic appearance of the car, and its concept of consciously reducing the body components and interior to a minimum clearly follow the tradition of the radically open Mini Moke of the 1960s. This is further accentuated by design cues that are strongly inspired by the original Mini Moke, and is enhanced by various striking details such as the characteristic radiator grille.

The new MINI Beachcomber meets modern demands in terms of space and comfort, as well as efficiency and safety, while retaining its clear focus on driving pleasure and enjoying the surroundings without barriers.

Versatile, modern, and safe at all times.
Modern from A-Z, the MINI Beachcomber Concept offers a wide range of technology and features for driving pleasure in the 21st century. The premium manufacturer touches in the areas of design, drivetrain, safety and production technology bring together the undiluted character of a concept car with a wide range of possibilities in the real world.

The MINI Beachcomber Concept vehicle's stable body structure incorporates clearly defined load paths and deformation units, which absorb impact energy in the event of a collision. The vehicle's rollover safety also meets the highest demands made of an open car and it is able to withstand even extreme situations. The frame on the passenger cell is formed by substantially reinforced A-pillars, and the D-pillar bar is complete with an integrated lateral support element at the rear of the car. It is made of high-strength steel for maximum stiffness. This additional safety component is finished in body color, and reinforces the commitment to safety.

The concept of intelligent lightweight technology serves to lower the car's center of gravity, offering superior agility at all times. The lateral support element further enhances the vehicle's agility and also gives the vehicle its unique appearance. This lateral support boasts recesses shaped to form the "MINI" model designation and is clearly visible from outside.

Extreme variability for all kinds of activities, weather and road conditions.
Individual rear seats adjust forward and back to offer the passengers a supreme standard of grand touring comfort tailored to their individual requirements. The rear seat backrests fold down completely to allow appropriate adjustment of interior space for all needs. In practice, this means that the driver and passengers are able to conveniently stow even bulky sports equipment such as mountain bikes or wakeboards securely held in position by special fastening systems.

The MINI Beachcomber Concept is also able to carry extra-long objects, such as surfboards, with ease. Fastened firmly to the lateral support, surfboards fit conveniently into the car, sticking out at the top on the way to the beach.

The driver and passengers enjoy convenient access to the luggage compartment though the rear panel split vertically down the middle into two sections. Whenever necessary, the right-hand side may remain fully open for bulky objects extending out of the car at the rear. The left rear element, in turn, is a window-less door hinged at the side and extends up to the seat backrests. The additional storage case fitted on to the door is reminiscent in its round shape of a fully enclosed spare wheel holder of the type often seen on a conventional off-roader. However, since the MINI Beachcomber Concept is equipped with runflat tires and therefore does not require a spare wheel, the lockable case may be used to take along additional luggage, keeping beach mats, towels, surf shoes or similar odds and ends within easy reach at all times.

Flexible protection from wind and weather: soft roof or hardtop inserts.

The MINI Beachcomber Concept is built for the sunny side of life and is simply perfect for spontaneous action. Through its optimum flexibility, the car is able to meet many different requirements, naturally coping with any sudden change in outdoor conditions.

This gives the MINI Beachcomber Concept all the qualities required for everyday motoring, with several options that cater to changing demands and weather conditions.
The soft roof offers convenient and effective protection from rain and weather, and comes off the body completely and folds up into a compact unit. Whenever required, the roof may be drawn over the car within a few minutes, like a tonneau cover on a boat, fastening conveniently on the windshield frame, the rear panel and the side openings.

Made of an extremely light, yet very robust fiber, the roof comes with transparent plastic inserts serving as side and rear windows.

The attachment points holding the soft roof in position are equally strong, stable and user-friendly. When the roof is in place, the four entry points and the rear door continue to open and close easily while keeping out draughts and water.

Read More

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

Read More