Chevrolet Camaro 1LE, 2013

 

 

 

 

• Chevrolet Camaro 1LE, 2013

The road-racing-inspired Chevrolet Camaro 1LE performance package returns for 2013 with unique gearing, suspension tuning and tires that make the model capable of more than 1 g of lateral acceleration and a sub-three minute lap time at Virginia International Raceway's Grand Course. It is offered on Camaro SS coupes with manual transmissions.

The 1LE package is offered on 1SS and 2SS coupe models with an exclusive Tremec TR6060-MM6 six-speed manual transmission. Paired with a numerically higher 3.91 final-drive ratio, the close-ratio gearing of the transmission is tuned for road-racing performance. As with the ZL1, the 1LE transmission features a standard air-to-liquid cooling system for track use.

The Chevrolet Camaro 1LE also features exclusive, monotube rear dampers instead of the twin-tube dampers on SS models. The new hardware allowed engineers to tune the 1LE suspension to focus on optimal body-motion control while preserving much of the ride quality and wheel-motion control of the Camaro SS.

Other changes to optimize the 1LE for track-day use:

•     Larger, 27-mm solid front stabilizer bar, and 28-mm solid rear stabilizer bar for improved body control
•     Higher-capacity rear-axle half shafts to cope with increased levels of traction
•     Strut tower brace for improved steering feel and response
•     ZL1-based 20 x 10-inch front and 20 x 10-inch aluminum wheels
•     285/35ZR20 Goodyear Eagle Supercar G:2 tires front and rear (identical to the front tires for ZL1)
•     ZL1 wheel bearings, toe links and rear shock mounts for improved on-track performance
•     ZL1 high-capacity fuel pump and additional fuel pickups for improved fuel delivery during high-load cornering.

Visually, the 1LE package is distinguished by its matte black hood, front splitter and rear spoiler - as well as the 10-spoke ZL1-based wheels, which are finished in black. The functional front splitter and rear spoiler contribute to the car's on-track performance by helping to reduce aerodynamic lift at high speeds.

Inside, the Chevrolet Camaro 1LE package incorporates the ZL1's flat-bottom steering wheel, trimmed in sueded-microfiber and designed for easier heel-and-toe driving on the racetrack. The quick-acting, short-throw shifter from the ZL1 is also trimmed in sueded-microfiber.

In anticipation of consumers entering the 1LE in amateur-racing events, Chevrolet is pursuing SCCA approval of the 1LE package for Touring Class competition.

The first Chevrolet Camaro 1LE package was introduced in 1988, inspired by Camaro's involvement in Pro-Am road racing.

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Chrysler 300C, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

•  Chrysler 300C, 2012

Though instantly recognisable as a motoring icon, the 2012 Chrysler 300C, which goes on sale in the UK on 14 June 2012, is new in every respect. Better built, safer, even more lavishly equipped and more efficient than its predecessor, the new Chrysler 300C retains a unique position in the executive sector. By offering the type of engineering, design, materials and driving dynamics that European buyers expect, combined with American style, personality and value for money, the 2012 Chrysler 300C will appeal to head and heart.

Unlike many rivals which offer a baffling array of engine sizes and trim levels, the new Chrysler 300C, which will become available here in two versions, promises the perfect power output for the car, with two well-judged specifications. The new 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel benefits from Fiat Group Automobiles' ground-breaking MultiJet 2 technology to provide a class-leading compromise between effortless power and fuel-saving efficiency.

Whether in Limited or Executive guise, the Chrysler 300C is a very well equipped car. Much of the technology that rivals sell as premium priced optional extras feature as standard equipment on the Limited model. Rain Brake Support which helps keep the brake pads dry for better stopping power in poor conditions is unique to this class of car. Ventilated front seats and heated rears, the Uconnect infotainment system with Bluetooth, dual-zone climate control, an 8.4-inch touch screen display, mirrors that darken automatically to limit headlight glare, cruise control, and 18-inch wheels are all standard on the Limited model.

The Executive version has a Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system, radar Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and a two-panel panoramic sunroof as well as the forward collision monitoring system and 20-inch alloy wheels.

Perhaps the biggest change over its predecessor is the quality of the new Chrysler 300C. By honing every step of the design, engineering and production processes of its new executive model, the American firm has taken a giant step forward in both perceived and actual quality.

The interior has high grade materials throughout, from the redesigned Nappa leather seats to real wood panels on the dashboard. The body is made from a variety of new materials including advanced high resistance and ultra-strong steel. The improved rigidity combined with all-new suspension means the rear-wheel drive Chrysler 300C doesn't just handle better than ever, it's also quieter and more refined too.

The more rigid construction also combines with a suite of nearly 70 electronic safety aids that ensure the Chrysler 300C offers top-class safety in a supremely stylish package.

QUALITY: AMBITIOUS TARGETS MET
The new Chrysler 300C has been designed to take on the best cars in the executive sector in terms of quality. Not only is it crammed with standard equipment, some of it a first for this class of car, it is also superbly built.

Even before build began, the American firm studied rival models covering a spectrum of performance attributes including quality, craftsmanship and refinement. The challenge was then to construct a car that matched or exceeded these levels. To help reach such ambitious targets, the 300C was one of the first Fiat-Chrysler Group vehicles to be examined during the digital design process by a special internal team for 'perceived quality' from the point of view of the most demanding customers.

Build
Perceived quality is the impression given to someone when they look at and touch things. Whether they're sitting in a seat, grasping a steering wheel or simply looking at the fascia, the shape of objects, the materials they're made from and the tactile sensations help people form an opinion of what they see.

In order that the view of the Chrysler 300C would be of a high quality executive car, this internal team worked in close contact with the designers and engineers to improve everything from the assembly and finishes to the quality of the surfaces and materials.

Advanced high-strength steel delivers world-class structural stiffness which leads to exceptional interior quietness, confident handling and outstanding safety performance. Sound suppression inside is further improved thanks to two composite underbody panels that provide more than 2.4 metres of acoustic insulation, a windscreen and front side windows specially designed for their exceptional acoustic performance, triple seals around the doors and special wheel well liners. A laser-braised roof panel and rail sections that deliver a clean, uninterrupted and aerodynamic unibody give further noise reduction.

To ensure this design is implemented in the best possible way, the factory where the 300C is built in Brampton, Toronto, Canada embraces the Fiat Group's World Class Manufacturing philosophy which has rigorous standards for all plant processes from safety and environment to maintenance, logistics and quality. The goal is to improve production performance and quality continuously with built-in flexibility while gradually eliminating waste.

The Interior
The Chrysler 300C's cabin has been designed to exude luxury. Instrument and door panels are clad with soft-touch materials chosen to meet Chrysler's strict quality goals. For example, the steering wheel is finished in highly polished walnut and hand-stitched leather. But the stitches have been strategically placed so the driver's hands come into contact only with smooth surfaces.

The instrument panel is treated with the cast skin technique which appears similar to leather, while the seats are covered in Nappa leather. Real wood inserts on the instrument panel, doors, centre console and steering wheel surround further heighten the upscale appearance. The dashboard is finished with discreet chrome touches to emphasise the Chrysler 300C's high quality nature.

All-new seats have been designed to guarantee best-in-class comfort. These feature serpentine spring suspension as their foundation. A stiffer foam material is used in the side upholstery for improved lateral support while less dense foam is used in the lower part of the seats and in the backrest to increase comfort during long journeys. The front seats have four-way lumbar adjustment to suit individual tastes.

To improve rear seat comfort, the front seat backrests have a sculpted shape for about 20cm more knee room. To ensure more foot room, the seat guides are located at the edges of the base.

The interior has a pleasing ambiance thanks to muted Sapphire Blue LEDs. In front of the driver there's a new instrument cluster with two large faces. Features are accented with raised Sapphire Blue tick marks and chromed rings complete the contemporary and premium feel.

The driver also has the all-new Electronic Vehicle Information Centre (EVIC). Again in Sapphire Blue, this has been designed to be easy to read and logically displayed to keep the driver as informed as possible.

As with all roomy and refined interiors, the secret of the 300C's success is having plenty of storage. So that the central armrest is suitable for all shapes and sizes of driver, it slides lengthwise. Beneath it is a sliding tray and a compartment that contains the power connectors for USB devices.

All doors feature oversize pockets with bottle supports and there's a flocked rubber storage compartment with lighting ahead of the gear lever. The roomy glove compartment is split with a shelf and features a centrally mounted light for more uniform light distribution. The two front cup holders, cooled and heated as standard, come with LED lighting that intuitively glows blue when they're chilled, red when hot. They also feature locking rings so they can take bottles of various sizes. As an example of the trouble Chrysler has taken to get the detail of the Chrysler 300C exactly right, the roller closing that covers the front cupholders wasn't just optimised for style and functionality. It was also designed to make a high quality sound when opened and closed.

EQUIPMENT: LUXURY AS STANDARD
As befits a range-topping model, the Chrysler 300C is lavishly equipped, whether in Limited or even more luxuriously appointed Executive trim. And unlike the majority of its rivals the equipment comes as standard.

Everything possible has been done to make the Chrysler 300C an effortless travelling companion. Keyless Enter 'n Go employs electronic sensors to detect the key fob's presence. The car unlocks automatically and the engine starts by pushing a button without needing to insert a key.

The steering column, which adjusts forwards and backwards as well as up and down, has a memory function to allow more than one driver to get comfortable quickly. The pedals too can be adjusted for maximum comfort.

The automatic headlights 'know' when it's getting dark and turn themselves on without any driver intervention. They also feature Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL) which adjusts the headlight beam up to 15 degrees to the left or right depending on which direction the front wheels are pointing.

To comply with current legislation, Daytime Running Lights (DRL) are standard, using efficient LEDs front and rear and High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights provide lighting that's three times brighter than regular units. The headlights also employ the SmartBeam system that adapts them to the light in the surrounding environment, ensuring the 300C driver benefits from the maximum light possible without blinding oncoming traffic.

When it rains the automatic windscreen wipers detect drops on the windscreen and start working without the driver telling them to. And the Automatic Temperature Control system measures the humidity inside the vehicle and automatically demists the screen without any driver intervention.

The driver's side door mirror darkens automatically to reduce any dazzling created by the headlights of vehicles behind, as does the internal mirror. Both side mirrors lower themselves when reverse gear is engaged to give the driver better visibility of the ground, kerbs or other obstacles.

The full length dual pane panoramic sun roof, standard on the Executive, has an auto reverse function that can prevent the roof closing if it senses any obstruction. There's an automatic sun blind in the rear window that reduces heat inside the passenger compartment and increases privacy. This automatically lowers in reverse for maximum rear visibility.

Presuming that there are certain areas of the car that executive car buyers would prefer not to touch, the traditional fuel cap is a thing of the past on the Chrysler 300C. Instead the fuel flap opens at the push of a button. A fuel filler pipe opens when the pump nozzle is inserted and closes automatically when refuelling has been completed, helping to protect against theft and vandalism as well as fuel spills and incorrect fuelling.

To avert any danger of breakdown, an Intelligent Battery Sensor continuously measures the flow of current going to and from the battery. If it detects that the battery is running down it disables the less critical electric systems and warns the driver.

Uconnect
The Chrysler 300C features the company's advanced Uconnect infotainment system of on-board technologies that ensures driver and passengers remain connected, safe and comfortable.

This system displays all the information the driver or passenger requests on an 8.4-inch touch screen, the largest in this car's class. With its multimedia and portable mobile device connectivity, it is specifically designed to enrich the experience of driving and travelling in the Chrysler 300C.

For maximum safety and ease of use, audio and connectivity controls are located on the spokes of the steering wheel and can be activated hands-free by voice alone. Uconnect Voice Command with Bluetooth lets the driver manage a Bluetooth compatible phone while keeping both hands on the steering wheel. The first time the phone is synchronised, the phonebook is downloaded on to the car's hard drive and numbers can be selected simply by saying the corresponding name.

Voice commands can also be used to select the available radio modes. In the arm rest there's a USB port with iPod control. This lets the driver run an iPod or similar mobile device either through the steering wheel controls or using the touch screen. The USB port allows any USB supplied device to be recharged and will play audio files stored in MP3 and WMA format on a USB drive.

The touch screen controls the single DVD player, an SD card reader, the automatic dual-zone climate control, the radio and the Garmin navigation system. This has clear maps and optional voice instruction along with suggested points of interest, making it easy to find restaurants, shops and hospitals in the area.

There are three levels of audio system. The Limited version's standard sound system has six speakers with a 276 Watt six-channel amplifier. Two 3.5-inch speakers are in the instrument panel, two 6 x 9-inch speakers are set in the front doors and two are in the rear parcel shelf. A nine-speaker Alpine system is optional. This has an 11 channel amplifier with 506 Watts of power plus digital signal processing with 7.1 surround sound. It features three 3.5-inch speakers in the instrument panel, two 6 x 9-inch speakers in the front doors, two 3.5-inch speakers in the rear doors, two 6 x 9-inch speakers in the rear parcel shelf, plus an 8-inch subwoofer in the rear parcel shelf.

This system is standard on the Executive model, while a 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system is optional. This sophisticated 900 Watt device has a 12-channel Harman Kardon amplifier. There are six 3.5-inch speakers in the instrument panel, two 6 x 9-inch speakers in the front doors, four 3.5-inch speakers in the rear doors, two 6 x 9-inch speakers, four 3.5-inch speakers and a 10-inch sub woofer in the rear parcel shelf.

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Suzuki Splash, 2012

 

 

•  Suzuki Splash, 2012

Suzuki announced the 2012 Splash Mini-MPV, incorporating styling refreshments to both exterior and interior that brings Suzuki Splash right up to date for the second half of 2012 and beyond. Most importantly there are no increases in pricing and Suzuki's very popular VAT free offers have now been extended across the Suzuki Splash range with the 1.0-litre SZ2 available from just £7,777.

The list of changes includes new front and rear bumper styling, new bonnet and grille design, new design seat fabric and graphite colour scheme, Piano Black finish to centre console and Black cloth finish to the front door armrests. The changes in bumper designs have resulted in an overall increase in length of 60mm, taking Suzuki Splash to a still very compact 3,775mm.

Sparkling Blue metallic has now also been added to the colour range as an option, adding to Galactic Grey, Silky Silver and Cosmic Black metallic paint finishes as well as Superior White and Bright Red standard solid colours.

Suzuki Splash is compact enough to manoeuvre with ease through narrow streets or to slot into tight parking spots. Yet on the inside its elevated driving position means it can comfortably seat five adults with plenty of legroom and luggage space, at the same time providing a great view of the road. The high seating position makes for easy entry and exit, while folding the one-touch rear seats forward - split 60:40 - creates a virtually flat load floor and opens up 573 litres of luggage space (VDA), including a handy waterproof compartment beneath the boot floor.

Two spirited but highly economical engines are offered: Suzuki's 68 PS VVT 1.0-litre (Variable Valve Timing) three cylinder unit and latest Dual VVT (inlet and exhaust camshaft) 94 PS 1.2-litre petrol engine that was first used in the all-new Swift.

Both engines are tuned and engineered with an emphasis on everyday driveability and cost-effective motoring with combined fuel consumptions of 60.1mpg for the 1.0-litre and 55.4mpg for the 1.2-litre (automatic 49.6mpg). The 1.0-litre emits just 109g/km of CO2 meaning it qualifies for £20 annual road tax, free in the first year. Manual transmission 1.2 litre models with emissions of 118g/km cost just £10 more in annual VED, again free in the first year.

Five models make up the Suzuki Splash range. The 1.0-litre is available in SZ2 and SZ3 trim; the 1.2 model is available in either SZ3 or SZ4 grades, with optional automatic transmission available on the SZ4.

All Suzuki Splash models offer a comprehensive equipment list as standard including four airbags, CD tuner with MP3 player and steering wheel-mounted audio controls; leather-trimmed steering wheel; remote central locking; front electric windows with driver's auto-down; electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors; height-adjustable front seats; tilt adjustable steering wheel and an information display. 1.0-litre SZ3 models upwards add air conditioning as standard.

Step up from SZ3 1.2-litre to SZ4 and the standard specification is even higher with ESP (Electronic Stability Programme); curtain shield airbags, 15 inch alloys, front foglamps, keyless entry and start and privacy glass for the rear side windows and tailgate.

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SsangYong XIV-2 Concept, 2012

 

 

 

•  SsangYong XIV-2 Concept, 2012

SsangYong Motor Company is gaining a reputation in Europe for creative, futuristic and advanced designs, and at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show the 4x4 specialist will unveil its next groundbreaking concept.

Making its world debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, the XIV-2 is a premium convertible CUV (crossover utility vehicle), and follows in the tracks of SsangYong XIV-1 Concept, first shown at the IAA in Frankfurt, September 2011.

Evolving the idea behind the first generation concept, SsangYong XIV-2 (eXciting User Interface Vehicle 2) has been developed into a vehicle that offers 'a special experience with fun'. Central to that fun element is an advanced convertible roof to give driver and passengers a rich 'wind in the hair' experience whether travelling on or off road.

XIV-2 is SsangYong's strategic global model, and has harnessed every element of the company's design and engineering expertise from its inception. B segment in size, this CUV retains at its core a dynamic, robust SUV and has been tailored through global design clinics to appeal to young drivers in their twenties.

Environmental considerations are also at the heart of SsangYong XIV-2's design, and the car will be equipped with various highly fuel efficient, low CO2 technologies:

•     Euro VI compliant 1.6 petrol and diesel engines
•     Efficient six speed manual or automatic transmission
•     Idle Stop and Go (ISG)

Representing a strategic milestone for SsangYong, XIV-2 will be launched in various body styles including 5 door, 3 door, coupé and an extended body version.

Styling Concept
Embodying SsangYong's design philosophy of 'Robust Aesthetics Realisation', XIV-2 moves forward from the previous XIV-1 design with progressive styling cues. Showing how drivers can enjoy the aesthetics of an SUV along with the benefits of a B segment car, XIV-2's design combines the appeal of an active, urban model with the dynamic shape of a coupé.

In profile, the body blends fast, confident lines with strong themes creating a dynamic silhouette. Carbon fibre trim gives a sense of the SsangYong's nimble, lightweight feel while the aerodynamic shape will appeal to active young drivers.

SsangYong XIV-2 features a fabric roof with a one-touch automatic operating system to provide open air driving enjoyment with ease.

Inside, the concept's design continues the dynamic design with refined simplicity carried over from the XIV-1. Red colour highlights on the dials emphasise the SsangYong's dynamics, with every part of the cabin styled to enhance driving pleasure.

SsangYong XIV-2's cabin controls are integrated into one central system and managed using a centre console mounted screen. Smart and mobile devices use an Auto User Interface to provide passengers with a moving communication space. Maximum space is assured for occupants thanks to four independent bucket seats creating a comfortable and luxurious environment, and the car's colour palette works in harmony with specialist materials and finishes including aluminium and carbon fibre.

SsangYong's design philosophy focuses on conveying 'driving fun' through its experimental and progressive design spirit. Just as XIV-2 reflects SsangYong's design principle now, the same ethos will be displayed in all future concept vehicles.

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Renault Alpine A 110-50 Concept, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

•  Renault Alpine A 110-50 Concept, 2012

The Alpine Berlinette turns 50 this year and, to mark the event, Renault has created the Renault Alpine A110-50 concept car, dedicated to performance and driving enjoyment.

So what's in a name? In some cases, the heritage of a name is like a national treasure - and that's certainly true for Alpine. Its DNA blends Renault's sporting passion and technical expertise.

    The Renault Alpine A110-50 concept car translates the most characteristic design features of the original A110 in a modern and spectacular way.
    The carbon-fibre bodywork features a new shade of blue which refreshes and reinterprets the famous original 'Alpine Blue'.
    Produced with the renowned expertise of Renault Sport Technologies, the Renault Alpine A110-50 concept car is imbued with the world of motorsport. It benefits from the experience gained from the racing Mégane Trophy by using the same technical platform.

A new interpretation of a timeless design
To mark the 50th anniversary of the iconic Berlinette, Design Yann Jarsalle and Concept and Show Car Director Axel Breun reinterpreted the original design cues to include the new Renault design language introduced by Laurens van den Acker with the DeZir concept car, and which will soon be rolled out in the company's future models. The new front-end look, with the upright, confident diamond, has been adapted for this very low and wide car. The Renault Alpine A110-50 is a car of today; a bold embodiment of Renault's passion for motorsport.

The Renault Alpine A110-50 concept car translates the most characteristic design features of the original A110 in a modern and spectacular way with:

•     the sculpted forms of its elegant, flowing bodywork, enhanced by lights over which air seems to flow effortlessly.
•     the half-domed additional lamps, with a technical but nostalgic interpretation, thanks to full LED yellow lighting - as it should be!
•     a characteristic 3D rear window, which reveals the mid-rear engine.
•     air intakes on each side echo the ducts on the rear wheel arches of the Berlinette. The right-hand opening is for gearbox cooling, the left is for the engine bay.

Produced by Faster, the carbon-fibre bodywork features a new shade of blue which refreshes and reinterprets the famous original 'Alpine Blue'. Every opening panel does so with dynamics worthy of the finest GTs, with the bonnet hinged at the front and the engine bay cover opening towards the rear. The doors feature a scissor motion.

A competition-focused cockpit
As you climb into the driving seat, the eye is drawn to the carbon-fibre sills. Everything inside this two-seater expresses build quality and sportiness, with black dominant.
    the driver's seat features embroidered 'Renault Alpine A110-50' badging, Sabelt full harness belts and different, attractive shades of blue.
    the dashboard is particularly uncluttered. The Renault Design-created steering wheel incorporates a colour screen and houses the same technology as a Formula Renault 3.5 single-seater to provide drivers with all the information they need.
    Racing driver equipment is provided by Sabelt and the helmet is created by Ruby.

A true prototype
Produced with the renowned expertise of Renault Sport Technologies, the Renault Alpine A110-50 is imbued with the world of motorsport. It benefits from the experience gained from the racing Mégane Trophy by using the same technical platform. Acclaimed by drivers in the World Series by Renault, the tubular chassis of the Renault Alpine A110-50 has been stiffened and undergone several developments. The roll cage and bracing in the engine bay have been modified (lowered) in the workshop of Tork Engineering to adapt them to the vehicle's height, which is lower than that of Mégane Trophy. The digital design work was led by Renault Design, Koller and Etud Integral, while final assembly was carried out by Protostyle. The final weight distribution is almost ideal, with 47.8% over the front wheels.

To facilitate servicing, the concept car features integral pneumatic jacks. Derived directly from the systems seen in endurance racing, they allow the wheels to be changed extremely quickly.

An exceptional car that fuses elegance and aerodynamic efficiency
The efficiency of the Renault Alpine A110-50 concept car is largely generated by ground effect. At the front, a splitter hidden in the bumper generates low pressure, which results in significant aerodynamic downforce. At the rear, a diffuser accelerates air flow beneath the floor. Ground effect therefore accounts for more than one-third of the car's downforce, with the rest coming from an adjustable rear wing.

The research and design of this air flow was conducted using Computational Fluid Dynamics, a cutting-edge technology used particularly in F1. CFD involves studying movements of a fluid, or their effects, by resolving digitally the equations which govern the fluid. This technique was used by Renault Sport Technologies primarily in order to fine-tune the aerodynamics and study the behaviour of the New Mégane Trophy as a function of air flow.

Exemplary road holding
The wheelbase of the Renault Alpine A110-50 is identical to that of Mégane Trophy (2,625mm), while the track is slightly wider at 1,680mm front and 1,690mm rear.

The 21-inch wheels, with a single central nut, are specific to this car and fitted with roadhomologated Michelin tyres.

The Sachs dampers can be adjusted in compression and extension, and are mounted directly onto the lower wishbones. There are numerous different set-up options: castor, camber and alignment, ride height, anti-roll.

In order to improve driver feedback, driving aids like ABS, traction control, etc. are not fitted.

Serious stopping power
The braking capability of the Renault Alpine A110-50 match its performance. At the front, large 356mm-diameter steel discs are slowed by six-piston callipers. At the rear, the discs are 330mm in diameter, while the callipers are four-piston models.

Mechanical excellence
Developed on the same technical platform as Mégane Trophy, the Renault Alpine A110-50 concept car also boasts the same chief technical characteristics.

It runs the Renault V4Y engine block, a 3.5 litre 24-valve 400hp V6 mounted in a mid-rear position. The crankcase (semi-wet), moving parts (pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft), valve train (camshafts and valve springs) and exhaust system are specific compared to the version featured on productions models.

Furthermore, the Renault Alpine A110-50 uses the carbon air intake employed for Mégane Trophy V6.

The inlet manifold is fed by a new roof-mounted air intake. This development broadens the engine's power band, with additional horsepower at all engine speeds. The engine mapping has been optimised for these modifications.

F1-style transmission
The Renault Alpine A110-50 concept car is fitted with a semi-automatic six-speed sequential gearbox, as well as a twin-plate clutch that can be controlled using either the clutch pedal or a paddle on the steering wheel.

The gearbox is fitted longitudinally behind the engine and incorporates a limited-slip differential (discs and ramps) with adjustable pre-loading.

The cerametallic twin-plate clutch is also specific to the car. It is activated automatically when downshifting, guaranteeing fast and reliable gear changes.

A black box at the heart of Renault Alpine A110-50

Supplied by Magneti-Marelli, the Marvell 6R electronic control unit includes functions for engine management, gearbox control and data acquisition.

Even more accurate data acquisition
All data collected by the Renault Alpine A110-50 can be analysed using version 4 of the benchmark Wintax software. Wintax 4 enables advanced analysis of more than 50 parameters: engine speed, gear, steering angle, car speed, throttle position, brake pressure... This information allows drivers and engineers to optimise settings and driving style. Wintax 4 data analysis also enables even faster diagnosis of any technical problems.

Renault Alpine A110-50 - The legacy of the Berlinette
When Jean Rédélé unveiled the A110 Berlinette at the 1962 Paris Motor Show, it marked the start of an Alpine adventure for the engine from the Renault 8. The car had been developed from the Alpine A108, but was more stylish and more dynamic, with an even lower engine cover, a larger glazed area and the rear lights from the Renault 8. The new engine demanded changes to the air intakes: with the radiator mounted at the rear, cooling exits were opened in the resin bodywork behind the rear wheel arches, disguised with four chrome strips. The changes served only to heighten the elegance of the A110 Berlinette. The restrained, balanced silhouette maintained its extremely pure lines.

A car for the enthusiast
To drive a Berlinette is a life-changing experience. Above all, it was designed to win rallies, so it's not surprising that it boasts a certain pedigree; not a tricky personality, but real character. You don't climb aboard an Alpine, you slide into it. But once you're behind the wheel, the connection is immediate. Agility and traction are particular strong points thanks to the mid-rear position engine, which tends to produce oversteer that is easy to control using the steering and throttle. It's sometimes a little trickier to keep going in a straight line, but life's all about compromise... This isn't a car you simply take for a drive - it demands to be properly driven. Its weaknesses are also its strengths.

The Berlinette in motorsport
The light weight and handling qualities of the Berlinette meant it was perfectly suited for motorsport. As well as being fun to drive, the cars were favourites with the fans, who often saw them cornering hard at lurid angles. It's almost impossible to catalogue every motorsport triumph for the Berlinette, but these are the main stages of the adventure.

1961-1968: the early successes
José Rosinski took the first win for the A110 at the 1963 Rallye des Lions. The remainder of the season followed this trend, with exploits including a win for Jacques Cheinisse on the Rallye d'Automne.

In the years that followed, a number of 'privateer' drivers achieved success at national and international level ahead of much more powerful cars from well-established brands.
1967: assembling a great team

Alpine became Alpine-Renault. New drivers joined the line-up: Gérard Larrousse, Jean-Claude Andruet and Jean-Pierre Nicolas in the works team, but also, among others, Bernard Darniche in the privateer ranks.

1968: the first French Rally Championship title
After victories on the Neige et Glace and Rallye de Lorraine for Gérard Larousse, Jean-Claude Andruet claimed the French title thanks to a total score of four wins during the season.

1969: Hitting its stride
Jean Vinatier and Jean-Claude Andruet were the stars of the season, with the former going on to become the French Rally Champion at the end of the year.

1970: European and French titles
The Berlinette 1600S was homologated for Group 4, which finally allowed the car to fight on almost equal terms with more powerful competitors. Jean-Claude Andruet, who had calmed his approach after several notable incidents, was crowned French and European Champion.

1971: The Berlinette dominates the Rallye Monte-Carlo
Another good year. Ove Andersson won the Rallye Monte-Carlo. Thérier finished second and Andruet third. Andersson also took the win in Italy against the flotilla of Fiats and Lancias dispatched to beat him. He subsequently triumphed on the Austrian Alpine Rally and on the Acropolis, securing the international title for Alpine. Jean-Pierre Nicolas won the French Championship.

1972: Heading for glory
The 1,600cc engine was replaced by a more powerful 1,800cc unit. Jean-Claude Andruet dominated the Tour de Corse. Numerous wins followed, shared between the team's drivers. Darniche was crowned French Champion at the end of the year, while Jean-Luc Thérier claimed the Rallye des Cévennes driving a turbocharged 1,600cc version. This was the first stirrings of a technology destined for major success...

1973: The climax of an era
Just imagine the best French drivers of the era: Andruet, Darniche, Thérier, Nicolas and Piot ably supported by the experienced Andersson. What's more, a team of mechanics giving their heart and soul, plus a car at the peak of its development. The season began with victory for Andruet on the Rallye Monte-Carlo, followed home by four other Alpines. In Portugal, Thérier and Nicolas scored a one-two. On the Rallye du Maroc, Darniche was unbeatable. And the rest of the season followed the same trend. Alpine won the inaugural World Rally Championship title and Jean-Luc Thérier was crowned French Champion.

1974 - 1975: the end of the works era
Nicolas won the Rallye du Maroc and finished second on the Tour de Corse. This was the Berlinette's swansong, and the year produced the last major win for the A110 on the Critérium des Cévennes, driven by Jacques Henry.

Technical specifications
    CHASSIS
        Type: Tubular 25CD4S steel chassis with semi-load bearing engine and gearbox
    BODYWORK
        Carbon
        Aerodynamic features: Front splitter, diffuser, rear wing
    ENGINE
        Position: Longitudinal, mid-rear
        Type: Renault V4Y - 6 cylinders - 24 valves - 3,498 cc
        Bore x stroke: 95.5mm x 81.4mm
        Injection/ignition: Magneti-Marelli Marvell 6R
        Maximum power: 400 hp @ 7,200 rpm
        Maximum torque: 422 Nm @ 6,200 rpm
        Maximum revs: 7,500 rpm
    TRANSMISSION
        Type: Rear-wheel drive
        Gearbox: Six speeds + reverse - sequential
        Gear shift: Semi-automatic (pedal-operated clutch and paddle)
        Differential: Limited slip differential
        Clutch: Cerametallic twin-plate 184 mm-diameter clutch
    SUSPENSION & BRAKES
        Suspension: Double wishbones, adjustable two-way Sachs damper/spring assemblies, front anti-roll bar
        Front brakes: Ventilated steel discs (Ø 356mm x 32mm) with six-piston AP Racing callipers
        Rear brakes: Steel discs (Ø 330mm x 32mm) with four-piston AP Racing callipers
    WHEELS & TYRES
        Wheels: Aluminium alloy - Front: 8 x 21 / Rear: 9.5 x 21
        Tyres: Michelin 245-35 x 21 (front) and 265-35 x 21 (rear)
    DIMENSIONS, CAPACITIES
        Length: 4,330 mm
        Width: 1,961 mm
        Height: 1,230 mm
        Front/rear track: 1,680 mm / 1,690 mm
        Fuel tank: 30 litres
        Kerb weight: 880 kg

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