Lotus Evora GX Racecar, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

•  Lotus Evora GX Racecar, 2013

Hot off the back of unleashing the Evora GTC racer, Lotus Racing engineers have been honing the Lotus Evora GX to meet the requirements of North America's legendary sports car series, the GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series.

Late in the 2012 season the Evora will race under the Rolex Series' GT rules as GX rules begin in 2013. With the Lotus Evora GX, the driving experience is even more pure, and the beefy body kit is even more aggressive.

McMahon Raceworks with Condor Motorsport have placed an order for their Lotus Evora GX, and the team led by David McMahon with Armando Trentini as lead driver and consultant, will enter the GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series.

Like the GTC, carbon-fibre doors, roof and engine cover have replaced the SMC and RTM composite panels of the previous evolution GT4 Enduro, and Plexiglass replaces the polycarbonate windows in order to trim yet more weight off what is already a very light car. At 1,150kg, it tips the scales at just 10kg over the weight of the GTC model, despite being fitted with the much thicker US-spec roll cage

There are aerodynamic changes too, with a new front splitter and front bumper, and the standard Rolex Series rear wing which, along with the car's wide wheels and flared arches, give it very mean stance. To meet other series requirements, ABS and traction control have been removed, putting more emphasis on driver skill.

There's also a new fuel filler system, Continental tyres, and yellow headlamps in order to tick all the race series specific boxes. The 4-litre V6 continues to pump out 440bhp and 440Nm of torque, linked to an XTRAC six-speed sequential paddle-shift. The GX is priced at $335,000.00 and will be built to order.

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Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4, 2013

 

 

•  Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4, 2013

At the 2012 Paris Motorshow Automobili Lamborghini is presenting the most successful super sports car of its entire history with a new design - even more aggressive, and more extreme: the new Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 and the LP570-4 Edizione Tecnica. The new Gallardo LP560-4 - equipped with permanent four wheel drive- has a new front end and a new rear, while top models in the Gallardo line-up,the LP570-4 Superleggera and the LP570-4 Spyder Performante, will be offered also as the further enhanced Edizione Tecnica. The six models of the Gallardo family are now clearly differentiated and can be customized perfectly to suit every type of driver.

The new Gallardo models will be available at Lamborghini dealerships from November 2012.

The new Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4
The unique design with its razor-sharp lines is one of the key factors in its great success worldwide. Nearly 13,000 units have already left the Sant'Agata Bolognese factory.

The Gallardo design has now been further accentuated in the new Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4. The new front end is characterized by triangular and trapezoidal forms - two shapes that are highly typical of the Lamborghini design language. Divided by diagonal elements in body color and in black, the overall look of the front end is broader and more forceful, giving it an even stronger bond with the road.

To complete the new look larger air intakes have been created ahead of the front wheels and the new 19-inch "Apollo polished" alloy wheels, painted in matt black and featuring precision-machined spokes in polished silver.

Even more dynamic rear end design on the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4. The triangle and trapezoid are, of course, the characteristic design elements here, too. The air outlet for the power unit now has now a wider surface area, which improves its thermodynamic efficiency. A new Style Package is available as an option and offers high-gloss black paintwork on the underside of the front spoiler, front and rear grilles and the transverse element of the rear trim to give the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 an even more powerful look.

The new Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Edizione Tecnica
With a more determined lightweight design, a focus on high performance and a purist look, the LP570-4 Superleggera and the LP570-4 Spyder Performante mark the very pinnacle of the Gallardo family. As Edizione Tecnica, they benefit from a further improved equipment level and an even more individual look. Features of the Edizione Tecnica include the fixed high rear wing, as well as brakes in carbon-ceramic technology. They combine low weight with outstanding fade resistance and durability. The power to weight ratio down to an outstanding 2,35 allows the car to be taken as one of the best references in the segment.

The Edizione Tecnica underscore sits very special look with three new exclusive optional color combinations, whereby the entire roof arch and front air intakes are painted in a contrast color. The available shades are: Nero Nemesis (matt black) body with Arancio Argos (orange) pillars and front air intakes, Bianco Canopus (matt white) body with Arancio Argos pillars and front air intakes, and Arancio Argos body with Nero Nemesis pillars and front air intakes.

In addition to this, all the new Gallardo models can be customized to a virtually limitless degree with the exclusive and well known: "Ad Personam" Lamborghini program.

The new LP560-4 and the Edizione Tecnica for the LP570-4 Superleggera and Spyder Performante, underline - even in terms of design - the differences in mechanical and driving experience among the four-wheel drive versions of the Gallardo range.

In fact, beside the Gallardo four-wheel drive, the two-wheel drive Gallardo LP550-2 in Coupe and Spyder format are still available. With its purist rear-wheel drive, it appeals to drivers that prefer a highly active and engaged driving style. The Gallardo LP550-2 offers the unique design and performance of a Lamborghini in a simple and uncomplicated form.

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Porsche Panamera GTS, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

• Porsche Panamera GTS, 2012

More power and upgraded brakes, a body lowered by ten millimetres and the especially sportily tuned chassis with air suspension and PASM are the major technical modifications that make Porsche Panamera GTS the model capable of cutting it on the racing circuit - without sacrificing practicality. The sportiest of all Panamera models also conveys this to occupants and the outside world by its striking sound. In terms of looks, the new Porsche Panamera GTS signals its independence by distinctive design features in the front-end, side and rear area as well as black highlights. The interior as well is rigorously tailored to the sporty personality with sports seats, SportDesign steering wheel with shift paddles, exclusive GTS leather interior and Alcantara surfaces.

The power unit in the new Porsche Panamera GTS is a modified 4.8-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine, delivering 430 hp (316 kW) at 6,700 rpm, trumping the engine in its Panamera S/4S sister models by 30 hp (22 kW). The maximum torque also increased by comparison, from 500 Nm to 520 Nm. The way in which at the push of a button the Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) transmits the engine output to the all-wheel drive (PTM) -thanks to the Sport Chrono package featured as standard without interruption to the power flow -is especially dynamic. This collaboration enables the Porsche Panamera GTS to sprint to 100 km/h in under 4.5 seconds, accelerating on to its top speed of 288 km/h. With NEDC fuel consumption of 10.9 l/100 km - only 10.7 l/100 km with low-friction tyres - the Porsche Panamera GTS remains as much of an efficiency role model in its milieu as all Porsche models.

The standard values for sprint and top speed don't do full justice to the new Panamera GTS's sporty characteristics. Its chassis in particular makes it fit for the racing circuit: The adaptive air suspension and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) featured as standard connect the chassis and body, constantly adapting to the driving challenges by regulating levelling settings, adjusting height, adjusting the spring rate and electrically adjusting the damping system. The damping is designed to be tauter, which helps agility and further reinforces the new Gran Turismo's sporty personality. Five millimetre thick wheel spacers between the wheel and the wheel carriers increase the rear axle track width, giving the Panamera an even more stable ride. The required grip is provided by 255/45 size 19-inch tyres on the front axle and 285/40 on the rear axle. Deceleration on the sporty Panamera is provided by the superlative braking system of the Panamera Turbo.

Engine and drive unit
4.8-litre V8 engine developing 430 hp (316 kW); Porsche Traction Management with active all-wheel drive; seven-speed Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK); acceleration 0 - 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds (with Launch Control); top speed of 288 km/h; NEDC fuel consumption 10.9 l/100 km; CO2 emissions 256 g/km; with low-friction all-season tyres 10.7 l/100 km; CO2 emissions 251 g/km.

The heart of the new Porsche Panamera GTS is its upgraded 4.8-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine benefiting from numerous modifications to give it even better performance. The 30 hp (22 kW) higher engine output compared with the power units in the Panamera S/4S goes hand in glove with a torque uplift of 20 Newton metres, the crankshaft now generates its maximum power of 520 Nm at 3,500 rpm.

To achieve these enhancements, the engineers increased the nominal engine speed by 200 rpm in typical sports engine construction fashion, the GTS's eight-cylinder engine achieves maximum output at 6,700 rpm. The full speed range was extended by all of 400 rpm, the maximum engine speed is 7,100 rpm. Integral to the high engine speed concept are modified valve springs with increased initial tension, ensuring that the valves open and shut precisely in all circumstances, ensuring in turn an optimal charge cycle. These engine characteristics enable the driver to change gear even later and use higher engine speeds when changing gear; allowing him to savour the dynamics of a sports car engine.

The second main focus area in revamping the eight-cylinder engine was optimising the charge cycle. A wider air intake with two additional air filter housings to the left and right at the front-end improve the air supply in the Porsche Panamera GTS. At low speeds a flap closes each of the two air intake openings. If the driver demands more power from the engine at engine speeds in excess of 3500 rpm, both flaps open and additional fresh air flows into the inlet duct. In addition, back pressure is generated at higher speeds and with it a slight charging effect that contributes to the increased output. In order to be able to handle the increased flow of combustion air optimally, two new camshafts with a one millimetre greater stroke control the intake valves on both banks of cylinders. As a result, especially at higher revs, the engine draws in more air, the cylinder charge increases and, with it, power.

Hearing performance: Sound Symposer transmits intake noises
At the push of a button, driver and passengers can hear the GTS engine "breathing" particularly well: the Sound Symposer directs the intake noise into the interior at the push of a button. This is done by an acoustic channel picking up the intake vibrations between the throttle valve and air filter. The acoustic channel incorporates a membrane that transmits the vibrations as an engine sound into the A-pillar. A controllable valve located in front of the membrane enables the Sound Symposer to be activated or deactivated by means of the Sport button.

The exhaust gases exit the Porsche Panamera GTS through a sports exhaust system, featured as standard, that comes with larger pipe diameters to reduce back pressure. This too is another building block in the increased output, and one which is audible into the bargain: the sports exhaust system features two tuning flaps, which expose additional exhaust openings, thereby emitting an even more powerful sound. The flaps are controlled by means of a switch in the centre console, which features a "last mode" function that remembers the last setting and restores it when the engine is started.

The control of the GTS power unit is handled by a modified and upgraded engine management system. It is discernible the moment the engine is started by a brief revving of the power unit. When driving, it ensures an even faster build-up in torque and thus a noticeably faster responsiveness. The modified engine management system also enables a brief shut-off of individual cylinders when changing gear, with the engine speed adjusting even faster to the transmission speed. This further reduces gear change times, accompanied by an engine sound akin to motor racing. A bonus with Sport mode selected is that a staccato engine sound and the so-called backfire, a short sharp report from the exhaust system that is particularly audible when changing down, ensures a full-bodied sports car sensation.

Chassis and driving dynamics systems
The Porsche Panamera GTS features a sporty chassis boasting performance-oriented options as standard. For example, adaptive air suspension including Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) increases both comfort and driving dynamics by self-levelling, height adjustment, adjusting the spring rate and electrically adjusting the damping system.

With the air suspension at its normal level the Porsche Panamera GTS also sits ten millimetres lower than the other models in the model line and its damping is designed to be tauter, further reinforcing the vehicle's sporty personality. Sporty performance is delivered by the combination of 19-inch Panamera Turbo wheels, five millimetre thick wheel spacers at the rear and the Panamera Turbo's braking system - recognisable by the red brake callipers.

Sport Chrono package for individual sportiness
The Porsche Panamera GTS meets particularly sporty requirements and therefore comes with the Sport Chrono package as standard, which in addition to the Normal and Sport modes offers the Sport Plus program as well. Specific characteristics of the Gran Turismo are further accentuated depending on which mode is selected: the engine responds more sensitively to changes in the accelerator pedal position, the transitions between traction and propulsion and vice versa become tauter and sportier and the load changes more spontaneous and dynamic. This instantaneous response is assisted by controlling the engine and PDK clutches that always slightly preload the entire drive line, so that every demand for power from the driver can be immediately translated into propulsion.

In Sport Plus mode, the PDK's response times become even shorter and the gear changes sportier. Even with only slight deceleration - even at high revs - in automatic mode a more dynamic braking downchange quickly kicks in. The change points as well are shifted towards higher revs, causing delayed upchanges and earlier downchanges. When changing up, the change in engine speed is deactivated so that when engaging the clutch to the next higher gear, a torque excursion ensures an additional propulsive boost.

Moreover, in Sport Plus mode the PSM stabilisation system kicks in later for greater longitudinal and transverse dynamics, making braking into corners perceptibly more agile: especially at low speeds, PSM now permits a sportier driving style when braking into corners and accelerating out of them, making for more driving fun in the process. The Sport Plus mode offers even greater agility with the PSM deactivated. For safety's sake, however, it remains on permanent standby in the background, intervening automatically if both front wheels are in the ABS control range. In addition, the adaptive air suspension lowers the vehicle to the low setting and switches to a harder spring rate. The rear spoiler angle of attack also changes to the performance-oriented setting.

Options for even greater driving dynamics: PDCC and PTV Plus
Porsche offers Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) as the final level of development of the Panamera GTS chassis, twinned with the electronically controlled rear axle differential lock and PTV Plus. PDCC prevents the body from rolling about the longitudinal axis of the vehicle by using active stabilisers on the front and rear axle to apply a countervailing force. The system also improves the vehicle's balance by dynamically distributing the roll torque. An even sportier setting of the PDCC is optimally tuned to the tauter damping of the PASM

The result: ultimate agility in every driving speed range as well as optimal cornering behaviour and stable load transfer behaviour.

The driving dynamics benefits of the PDCC are further enhanced by Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus). The system works by varying the torque distribution to the rear wheels and by employing an electronically regulated rear differential lock, optimising steering behaviour when being driven with a sporty driving style. Braking interventions applied to the inside rear wheel generate an additional rotational pulse in the direction in which the steering wheel has been turned. This results in a direct and dynamic steering action as the car enters the curve.

PTV Plus complements this by improving traction as required when experiencing high lateral acceleration, when accelerating on road surfaces with varying levels of grip and when accelerating out of tight corners. During load transfer when cornering, the vehicle's turning motion into the corner is less pronounced as a result of the countervailing yaw moment built up by the rear axle differential lock and straight-line stability is improved. The result is high lateral dynamic vehicle stabilisation - i.e. chassis stability - optimal traction and high agility at any speed with precise and stable load transfer behaviour.

Body and equipment
In terms of its aerodynamics, the Porsche Panamera GTS is on a par with the Panamera Turbo: with its large air intake openings, the standard front section from the Panamera Turbo's SportDesign package emphasises the vehicle's sporty dynamics and ensures an optimal air supply for the back pressure air filters peculiar to the GTS.

This is matched in the tail section by fitting the adaptively deploying four-way rear spoiler from the Panamera Turbo. At a speed of 205 km/h and above it positions itself so as to generate downforce on the rear axle, thereby ensuring stable driving safety at high speeds.

Exterior: Sporty at first glance
The visual appearance of the Porsche Panamera GTS is characterised by numerous exterior accessories in black. The high-gloss black exterior package in particular, featured a standard, comprising the side window trim, the decorative trim on the rear lid, the headlight washer unit cover, the rear diffuser and the side air outlet panels, lends a sporty touch. Together with the black front end side terminators, the side skirts, the tail end and the sports exhaust system's matt black tailpipes the resulting appearance is clear-cut and striking.

A further point of differentiation: the bi-xenon headlights with black inner bezels. They feature four LED daytime running lights apiece, which - as with the Panamera Turbo - are not integrated into the front lights but accommodated in the main headlight. The optional paintwork in Carmine Red, available exclusively for the Porsche Panamera GTS, emphasises the vehicle's sportiness and provides an ideal contrast with the black exterior accessories.

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Peugeot 3008 HYbrid4, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

• Peugeot 3008 HYbrid4, 2012

By launching the world's first diesel full hybrid vehicle - the Peugeot 3008 HYbrid 4 - Peugeot will be writing a new chapter in motoring history. The combination of a fuel efficient 2.0 litre 163 bhp HDi diesel engine and a 37 bhp electric motor is the optimal combination for a hybrid vehicle. Unlike previous hybrid vehicles which have chosen to use a less fuel efficient petrol engine, the Peugeot 3008 HYbrid4's diesel engine provides superior Combined Drive Cycle fuel consumption of 74.4mpg, and CO2 emissions of 99g/km.

The use of diesel hybrid technology also brings a range of other benefits:

•     High performance combined with excellent driveability
•     Freedom and simplicity of use with the possibility of choosing four different operating modes: ZEV (Zero Emission Vehicle), Four-wheel drive, Auto and Sport
•     Silent operation, when driving in electric only mode
•     Peace of mind offered by the safety inherent in a four-wheel drive vehicle
•     Environmental friendliness with CO2 emissions from 99g/km

The Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4 is designed to appeal to demanding, technophile customers who are in search of a rewarding and original vehicle.

In terms of performance, the Peugeot 3008 HYbrid4 benefits from the combined power of the HDi diesel engine and electric motor during acceleration and when an immediate surge of power is required (the "boost" function). The maximum combined power output is 200 bhp, 163 bhp from the 2.0 litre HDi FAP diesel engine and 37 bhp from the electric motor. A maximum torque of 500 Nm is available, split with 300Nm at the front from the HDi diesel engine and 200 Nm at the rear generated by the electric motor.

To manage all the available performance a control selector mounted on the centre console enables the driver to choose between four different operating modes.
    "Auto" mode: the entire system is automatically controlled, including operation of the HDi diesel engine and the electric motor. This provides optimal driving for fuel consumption and dynamic performance
    "ZEV" mode (Zero Emission Vehicle) provides access to an extensive all-electric mode. Activation of the HDi diesel engine is programmed to coincide with only more sustained phases of acceleration. This requires the high-voltage batteries to be sufficiently charged and turns the vehicle into a "city run-around" par excellence due to the total absence of noise and emissions.
    Four-wheel drive mode (4WD) instructs both power trains to operate together as far as possible; the rear wheels are driven by the electric motor and the front wheels by the HDi diesel engine. It offers peace of mind, safety, improved driveability and accentuates the vehicle's dynamic character. At low speed it allows "all-terrain" capabilities equivalent to those of an SUV. The driver will, therefore, no longer be concerned by the prospect of a slippery track or a snowbound uphill drive to a ski resort
    "Sport" mode favours quicker gear changes at higher engine speeds than normal mode. In this mode, the notion of "controlled power" comes into its own, coupling the diesel engine with the electric motor provides more dynamic performance, optimally distributed and transmitted to the road by the four wheel drive for a level of stability and driveability that will appeal to motoring enthusiasts.

With the Peugeot 3008 equipped with HYbrid4 technology, the aim is to appeal to customers who expect both environmental-friendliness and technological sophistication, and also genuine driving enjoyment.

Indeed, as well as the social benefit of the steep reduction in fuel consumption, the level of performance provided by this technology will delight even the most demanding customers in terms of road holding, responsiveness, driveability, peace of mind regardless of road conditions and the possibility of enjoying silent operation in town in the all-electric mode.

HYbrid4 technology brings together Peugeot's best technologies and experience: HDi diesel engines, electric vehicle knowledge, second-generation Stop & Start and electronically-controlled sequential manual gearboxes.

The "hybrid" power train simply combines an HDi diesel engine and an electric motor. With their exceptional efficiency, HDi diesel engines are thermodynamically more efficient than a petrol engine and offer a 30% reduction in fuel consumption. Clearly the HDi diesel engine is the best internal combustion engine choice.

For the "electric" component, Peugeot has historical expertise in the field of electric vehicles. To date, the 106 Electric, marketed between 1995 and 2003, remains the world's best selling zero emissions car (in total nearly 10,000 vehicles were produced). At the end of 2010, Peugeot will become the first to launch a latest-generation 100% electric vehicle in Europe, the Peugeot i0n.

Pursuing the common sense approach of capitalising on the best existing components and expertise, it was only natural to use Peugeot's electronically-controlled 6-speed manual gearbox, not only for its engine management capabilities but also for its ability to optimise fuel consumption. To improve performance even further a second-generation STOP & START system is also used.

The choice of hybrid architecture was also guided by the search for optimal efficiency and consistency. Hybrid technology uses two power trains which can operate alternately or simultaneously:

•     The HDi diesel engine operates in its most optimal operating window on longer, out-of-town journeys. A diesel engine still remains the most efficient and versatile choice to power any vehicle
•     The electric motor takes over from the HDi diesel engine in phases of lower power demands, particularly when pulling away, driving at low speed and decelerating (for energy recovery). These are precisely the features that characterise urban driving

Changeover from the HDi diesel engine to the electric motor occurs automatically, due to a STOP & START system which places the HDi diesel engine in standby and restarts it as and when conditions require (the operation of the accelerator pedal, low battery charge level, etc…).

The two power sources also complement each other in certain driving conditions ("boost" effect during hard acceleration, or when overtaking another vehicle, for example). The performance of the HYbrid4 is therefore directly comparable to that obtained with a single HDi diesel engine of a much higher capacity, with good levels of responsiveness backed by a real breakthrough in terms of reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions (around 35 % less in the combined cycle for equivalent performance).

The electric motor and its ancillary equipment (inverter, converter, etc) are fitted at the rear of the vehicle. This provides a number of advantages not only in terms of customer benefits and it also helps reduce costs and optimise the production process.

The original layout of the Hybrid4 system allows for the possibility of four-wheel drive. The HDi diesel engine drives the front wheels, while the electric motor (in the rear drive train) drives the rear wheels.

Everything is controlled electronically ("by wire") and there are no mechanical links between the front and the rear drivetrains. This gives the system many advantages over a "traditional" mechanical system.

    No structural constraints affecting the layout and design within the passenger compartment
    4x4 and environmental-friendliness are no longer contradicting terms

The installation at the rear, of all the vehicle's "electrical components", has further technical and economic benefits.

Firstly, it avoids the need for any major redesign of the vehicle's engine compartment, while also improving weight distribution. It also leaves intact the possibility of using a range of different capacity engines, for possible future introduction.

Secondly, this architecture is achieved by means of the use of a simple and compact rear module containing the electric motor, its ancillary equipment and also the rear drive train and suspension.

The costs of the rear module are, therefore, reduced because of the technical possibility of deploying the same HYbrid4 technology into different market segments, in different body shapes, etc…, regardless of the type of internal combustion engine used.

A real breakthrough in terms of reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, while improving dynamic performance levels, providing four-wheel drive and an electric only mode, HYbrid4 technology brings a number of benefits without compromises.

Furthermore, the driveability, safety and eco-efficiency of the system are based on simple, reasonable and consistent technological choices.
The Peugeot 3008 Crossover was chosen as the first application of this innovative technology.

2.0 litre HDi FAP 163 bhp diesel engine
With a capacity of 1997 cm³, this Euro 5 engine develops a maximum power of 163 bhp at 3750 rpm and a maximum torque of 300Nm at 1580 rpm. To obtain this level of performance it uses Peugeot's latest generation ECCS (Extreme Conventional Combustion System) combustion chamber design, a variable-geometry low-inertia turbocharger, a high-pressure injection pump allowing a maximum pressure of 2000 bar and solenoid injectors with eight apertures.

Naturally this is combined with the latest generation "octosquare" Eolys additive-enhanced diesel particulate emission filter (FAP) system.

Electronically-controlled 6-speed manual gearbox (BMP6)
The HDi diesel engine is mated to an electronically-controlled manual six-speed sequential gearbox:
    In automatic mode its electronic control helps provide significant savings in fuel consumption, compared to a traditional automatic gearbox or even a traditional manual gearbox
    It offers real driving satisfaction derived from the possibility of choosing the gear change mode at any time - manual or automatic - with either the gear lever or via controls behind the steering wheel

The gear change quality of the gearbox has been enhanced with HYbrid4 technology, as the rear electric motor is activated during gear changes to improve the smoothness of the operation, and sustains drive in between gear changes.

Latest-generation STOP & START system
This system places the HDi diesel engine in standby when the vehicle is at a standstill (at traffic lights, a stop sign or in a traffic jam, etc) and when the vehicle is being driven in electric-only mode. It significantly reduces fuel consumption and emissions in urban driving conditions while also enabling.the HDi diesel engine to be restarted instantly and smoothly, when required.

The "high voltage" STOP & START system has a maximum output of 8 kW and can generate enough energy to supply the power requirements for the rear electric motor if required (four-wheel drive mode).

Rear suspension
To ensure a dynamic performance on a par with Peugeot's reputable road holding standards, the rear electric module also includes a multi-arm rear suspension within which are housed the electric motor and the reduction gearbox.

ESP
The ESP system fitted to the Peugeot 3008 HYbrid4 incorporates an "improved traction control system" (ASR) able to exploit the car's four-wheel drive capabilities to the full on challenging surfaces. The performance of the system can be enhanced by the fitment of optional 16'' 'Mud & Snow' tyres.

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Fiat Palio, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

•  Fiat Palio, 2012

The successful hatchback of Fiat Automóveis with more than 2.5 million units sold in Brazil and a history of daring and innovation now conquers one more chapter: in its new generation, the Fiat Palio is totally new. It is more beautiful, robust, more comfortable, safe and larger - the Fiat Palio has grown and evolved.

Manufactured at our plant in Betim, Minas Gerais, the new Fiat Palio arrives at the Brazilian market as a natural evolution of its predecessors: improved, impressive, absolute, in perfect harmony with its customer's desires. Its attractive design, completely reworked by Centro Stile Fiat in Italy, is modern and harmonious, exquisite and sporty, and immediately shows that it is a Fiat, but also displaying its strong personality.

The evolution transforms the look of the new Fiat Palio, and leaves it longer, wider, higher and with a larger wheelbase: beneficial to all passengers who can now enjoy more internal space and comfort. Besides, the comfort is enhanced by careful reformulation of the cabin, which create an environment that is pleasant - in which all elements and volumes are in harmony in the contours, colors and textures - and functional.

Three engines power the new Fiat Palio: Fire 1.0 EVO, Fire 1.4 EVO and 1.6 16V E.torQ, all of them Flex. The 1.6 16V versions can come with mechanical or Dualogic® transmission. In total, the new model hits the market with six versions to please all tastes, needs and budgets. They are: Attractive 1.0, Attractive 1.4, Essence 1.6 16V, Essence1.6 16V Dualogic, Sporting 1.6 16V and Sporting 1.6 16VDualogic.

The Fiat Palio is also very complete and brings in its equipment list various contents that serve to further enhance the comfort and safety of passengers such as lateral and frontal airbags, ABS brakes, leather steering wheel with radio controls, gear-shift butterfly-type switch on the wheel, twilight and rain sensors, cruise control, windshield heater, CD player with MP3 and iPod/USB inputs, fog lamps, rear hatch Logo push, switchblade key with remote control, among many other items.

The hatchback also comes with yet another innovation: the owner of the new Fiat Palio can choose from several items to customize the car, which can be direct from the factory or at dealerships. There are several lines of stickers, badges and liners for the consumer to choose.

The development of the new Fiat Palio required about 824,000 hours from the company's engineers. During the process, 526 prototypes, test vehicles and pre-series were built. They were submitted to 61,434 virtual tests, 61,583 physical tests, and driven for more than 1.7 million kilometers before the final product could now hit the streets. Almost 3,300 new components make up the car. In terms of quality, reliability, endurance and strength, no effort was spared to provide the Fiat customer the best.

TOTALLY NEW DESIGN FOR A WHOLE NEW CAR
The Fiat Palio that now hits the streets represents a step beyond in relation to the former hatchback - it is bigger and finer. The entirely contemporary design by Centro Stile Fiat, Italy, is completely in tune with global trends, but also refers to the identity of the Fiat brand. It shares the stage with functionality, practicality and accurate finishing, making the new Fiat Palio a reference model in its segment.

A significant change that attracts much attention to the new Fiat Palio is its size. Its dimensions are noticeably larger than those of the previous Palio. The car has grown: 31 mm in width; 60 mm in height, 28 mm in length; and 47.3 mm in wheelbase. Despite being a compact car, these larger dimensions really contribute to raise passenger comfort and more intelligent use of internal space.

The body of the new Fiat Palio was developed in accordance with the latest design criteria. The goal was to obtain a lightweight body (compared to competitors) while keeping optimal structural performance. To this end, more resistant materials were used, allowing for the reduction of thickness and hence the weight of components, without loss of structural targets. The use of strategically placed reinforcements also contributed to increase occupant protection.

Italian style in a car 100% Brazilian
Outwardly, everything is different. The new Fiat Palio brings the DNA of Italian design that combines functionality with a beautiful aesthetic quality. Its high and sloping waistline defines the model's vocation by revealing sportsmanship. In addition, the highly tilted windshield denotes dynamism. The soft curves form a profile between hatchback and minivan with modernity and sophistication. The harmonious and dynamic design of the windows in conjunction with the side crease, which rises in the front fender and ends at the rear elongates the model, determines an element of beauty and grandiosity.

The front with rounded and voluminous lines received drop-shaped, bi-parabola headlights, representing modernity and personality. The robust bumper with geometric niches for the fog lamps gives the impression of strength and gallantry. The high and majestic air intake has a horizontal strip, which receives the front number plate of the vehicle. And the Fiat logo is flanked by elegant chrome trim similar to the 500 theme. Well positioned creases "tie-in" all elements.

Smooth surfaces predominate on the side, defined by lines and subtle curves. The waistline begins from the outer corner of the headlight bordering along the windows and on the C column, and extending to the rear window. This line brings harmony to the entire body. Another stronger crease runs on the side, embedding the doorknobs and meeting with the outer corner of the headlight. The car roof makes a slight curve toward the rear, and the windows follow the curve, radiating dynamism and energy. The protruding wheel housings serve as an element of surprise, breaking the great lateral plane and merging with the bumpers.

On the rear the focus is on the lamps. Elongated vertically and with many of the original traits, they invade the region of the rear window, and call attention to their boldness and functionality, as they are easily seen by other drivers. In addition, they make the model exclusive. Bicolor lenses add to the modernity of the body.

The brake-light in LED has a long service life and offers excellent viewing for those coming behind and still gives the car a sportier look. The large rear window and gently curved trunk lid with beveled edges create an appealing visual plane, which is complemented by the robust bumper. This embeds the same black strip as the front bumper. The entire rear refers to robustness and modernity.

The optical systems in the new Palio deserve highlight. The biparabola headlight has greater high and low photometric intensity of beams, which ensure a high luminous flux. The bulbs in the headlights were designed to simulate daylight as much as possible, which allows for a more homogeneous distribution, with greater depth and realism of the scenario. The turbine shape of the tail lights, of both the parking and brake lights, make it exclusive.

The new model also comes with independent tail reflector separate from the turn lights. Positioned in the bumper, they are traditionally more visible on the highways or in city streets.

Great refinement and comfort on board
Internally, the new Fiat Palio is also full of surprises. Ample internal space especially for a car in the AB segment, exquisite finishing and many details of comfort technology increase the pleasure to drive and to travel in the vehicle. Special attention was given to the harmonization of all elements - dashboard, steering wheel, radio, speakers and fabrics - in such a way as to create a warm and refined, but always functional environment.

All functional surfaces of the car are covered by panels, giving the cabin a very polished and pleasant to the touch aspect. The storage compartments, which extend the convenience and organization, are everywhere. Depending on the version, they can be a total of 17: four on the dashboard, four in the center console, eight on the doors, and one on the trunk cover.

The wraparound seats are new and designed to be more ergonomic and more comfortable. Its structure is light and strong, and very safe. The front seats have antisubmarining system and aft adjustment via rail. The driver's seat can come with height adjustment by lever arms and supports for comfort. The rear seat offers two positions on the back to increase the volume of the trunk. It can also be folded flat, creating a larger luggage space. All head restraints of seats and arm rests have the pourinplace technology, which means "inject" the foam directly into the fabric, enabling the creation of new and more ergonomic shapes.

One of the new features that draw the most attention on the dashboard is the instruments panel - 100% designed and developed in Brazil by Magneti Marelli. It comes with White LCD, which ensures better visibility of the display, bright new graphics and pointers across the bar, where the arrangement of elements is entirely three-dimensional. It also features WelcomeMoving, which make the instrument indicators move and perform a systems check, and greeting to the driver on the turn of the key. The lighting of the dashboard turns on and off gradually, following the movement of the indicators.

In the versions Attractive and Essence, the dashboard's background is black and contains a speedometer, tachometer, clock and partial and full digital odometers, coolant thermometer, analog fuel gauge, and pilot lights. The numbers are in white with red pointers, in easy to read format, without distracting the driver.

The Sporting version received a different dashboard. It contains the same meters of the other versions, but with numbers in larger screen printing gradient and white indicators, and the "Sporting" logo in the center.

Another important point was the development of Color and Trim, when Fiat's designers sought through new technologies the best balance of colors, fabrics and textures for both the internal and external looks of the new Palio.

A highlight of this work is the insertmolding - the central strip that runs horizontally across the panel - which along with the new fabric of the seats and door panels, forms the principal item of internal customization of the new Fiat Palio. With patterns specific to each version, the assembly can be replaced with other colors and prints for customers who want to customize their car.

With the new volume of the interior of the Fiat Palio, the audio system was also configured and positioned to achieve optimal acoustic performance. The package consists of an amplified reception antenna, two front speakers MidWoofer, two rear Full Range speakers, and two front Tweeters. The CD MP3 player is part of the dashboard and adds to its sophistication. The system also features a USB/iPod connection and Bluetooth® for hands free phone. Another innovation in the model is the option of radio controls on the steering wheel.

The indoor comfort is completed with the engineering work of by Fiat in the air-conditioning system. The excellent result of the new Fiat Palio positioned it as the best the market reference among manual systems.

EXCELLENT STRUCTURAL PERFORMANCE
The structure of the new car was designed to meet the best safety requirements of the global market. In the body, the high-strength materials were used on a large scale, resulting in increased rigidity, improved safety performance and reduction in body weight by 15%.

These components with high strength materials comprise 35% of the body structure. They were also used in 30% of the moving parts of the structure and 34% of the structure of the doors. In addition the door safety has been increased against lateral collision and burglary with the use of ultraresistant materials and with the new lateral protection bars in omega profile.

All of these interventions in the new car resulted in excellent structural performance, weight reduction, improved performance and enhanced safety. In addition to all aspects that enhance passive safety, the new Fiat Palio can also be equipped with four airbags, two in the front and two on the sides. In terms of active safety, we highlight the ABS brakes with EBD.

Another strong point of the new Fiat Palio is its suspension. Featuring an entirely new and more robust structure, it is designed and calibrated to provide comfort for occupants in all driving conditions - that is, it absorbs the irregularities of the floor and the lateral and longitudinal oscillations coming from it or from maneuvers - and ensures the stability of vehicle, keeping the tire traction on the ground.

To this end, various technical solutions were adopted:

•     Front suspension. It has lower arms in the form of rectangular triangle. The goal is to minimize the effect of the braking load in curves and ensure better balance in all operating conditions.
•     Rear suspension. The torsion axle and semi-independent wheels result in high torsional rigidity and appropriate flexibility.
•     Rubber cushion attached to the body. It has been optimized to improve dynamic response in curves.
•     Dimensions of elastic cushions. They were increased to better dampen road roughness, increasing driving comfort.
•     Dampers designed and calibrated to achieve the ideal balance between driving comfort and curve stability thresholds.

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