Porsche 911 Carrera S, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

•  Porsche 911 Carrera S, 2013

Porsche is proud to present the new Porsche 911 Carrera, a completely new generation of the iconic coupe that has been acclaimed as one of the world's benchmark sports cars since its launch in 1963.

Tradition meets modernity
True to the 911 tradition, the distinctive Porsche design language exudes power and elegance. The unmistakable silhouette still catches the eye while incorporating new, exciting contours and precisely designed details; a 100mm longer wheelbase for improved stability and greater interior space; front and rear overhangs are shorter, maintaining the compact footprint that has been a longstanding 911 attribute; the sporting stance is emphasised by the lower roof line and a wider front track increases on-road presence further still while raising the renowned chassis dynamics.

The rear-mounted, flat six cylinder engine is an equally symbolic component of the 911 identity; and behind the rear axle of the new car lies an uprated range of powerful, efficient and evocative 'boxer' engines. The Porsche 911 Carrera is powered by a new 3.4-litre engine developing 350 hp, and the Carrera S features a 400 hp version of the familiar 3.8-litre. These new engines offer performance improvements for both models. The 3.4-litre Carrera with PDK accelerates from 0-62mph in 4.6 sec, 0.1 sec quicker than the prior model. Pressing the Sport Plus button on the optional Sport Chrono Pack cuts that to 4.4 sec. The 3.8-litre Carrera S with PDK can accelerate from 0- 62 mph in 4.3 sec (Sport Plus 4.1 sec), 0.2sec quicker than its predecessor.

All-new lightweight body
Principle among the innovative steps forwards is the all-new, lightweight body, featuring intelligent aluminium-steel composite construction. It is responsible for a significant proportion of the vehicle weight reduction of up to 45 kg. The body structure also delivers significantly greater rigidity, and aerodynamic optimisation - including a wider, variably extending rear spoiler - has reduced the lift generated by the new 911 Carrera while retaining an impressive overall drag factor.

Innovative chassis technology
That the new 911 offers better acceleration in a straight line goes without saying, but it also offers top performance at an unprecedented level across the entire dynamic repertoire. In addition to the longer wheelbase, the greater agility, precision and driving stability are based, among other things, on the wider front track, a new rear axle and new electro-mechanical power steering.

Depending on the model, there are other standard or optional active control systems available as well that further enhance the driving dynamics. That is especially true for the Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) active roll stabilisation system, available for the first time on the Porsche 911 Carrera S. The system reduces body roll when cornering, with the result that the tyres are always in the optimal position relative to the road surface and thus able to transmit higher lateral forces. Consequently, maximum cornering speeds are increased, and even faster lap times on racing circuits are possible.

Exterior design
The familiar athletic appearance of the 911 is given further dynamism with a 100mm longer wheelbase, reduced height, and up to 20-inch diameter alloy wheels. At the same time, the typically compact exterior dimensions have been retained. Seen from the front, the eye is drawn to the trademark wide-arched wings, emphasising the wider front track and making the new 911 Carrera models adopt a particularly sporting stance on the road. The redesigned exterior mirrors are now mounted on the upper edge of the door and not as before on the mirror triangle. Not only is this aerodynamically advantageous, it also emphasises the new design line and visual impression of width.

Interior design
To complement the modern exterior, the Porsche designers created an interior style which takes its cue from that of the Porsche Carrera GT. The driver is now even more closely integrated with the cockpit thanks to the centre console rising up to the front with the high-mounted shift lever - or PDK gear selector - located close to the steering wheel in typical motorsport fashion. Classic Porsche style elements are also to be found inside, just as they are on the outside. For example, the instrument cluster with five round instruments, with the central dial naturally the rev counter. On the right is a new, high resolution multi-function screen, just one of the comfort features added to meet evolving customer demands.

Porsche Intelligent Performance
Setting the standard in its class, as it has for generations, the new Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera S raise the performance and efficiency standard to new levels. Fuel consumption and emissions of all versions are up to 16 per cent lower compared with its predecessors. Among other things, this is achieved by systems and functions such as auto start/stop, thermal management, electrical system recuperation, the world's first seven-speed manual transmission and - in conjunction with the Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) - a 'coasting' function that decouples the engine for enhanced fuel efficiency when the throttle is closed.

The new electro-mechanical power steering system offers not only the typical precision and feedback expected of a Porsche, but also helps to increase efficiency and reduce fuel consumption. For example, the Porsche 911 Carrera with the new 350 hp (257 kW) 3.4-litre direct injection engine and optional PDK returns 34.4mpg Combined based on the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) - 6mpg less than its predecessor. Also, at 194 g/km CO2, it is the first Porsche sports car to sit below 200 g/km CO2. In the case of the Carrera S, with its 400 hp 3.8-litre direct injection engine, economy when paired with the optional PDK is increased by 14 per cent, or 5 mpg, to 32.4mpg Combined despite 15 hp more power. That equates to CO2 emissions of 205 g/km.

Evidently, it has therefore been possible in the new 911 Carrera to extend yet further the span of apparently contradictory attributes such as performance and efficiency, sportiness and everyday usability that has always typified the Porsche 911. It could be said that the new 911 Carrera is thus more of a 911 than ever.

In the UK from December 2011
The new Porsche 911 Carrera celebrates its world premiere at the 2011 IAA Frankfurt Motor Show and the new 911 models will be in UK Porsche Centres from December 17 2011.

The Porsche 911 Carrera is priced from £71,449 and the Porsche 911 Carrera S is priced from £81,242. Standard equipment on all models is leather interior, sports seats, automatic climate control, Bi-Xenon headlights, 7-inch colour touch-screen Porsche Communication Management with satellite navigation, a universal audio interface offering MP3 connectivity, Porsche Stability Management (PSM) and a three year warranty.

The Carrera S adds 20-inch alloy wheels, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) with rear limited slip differential, in addition to the power advantage of the larger 3.8-litre engine.

Read More

Pininfarina Cambiano, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

•  Pininfarina Cambiano, 2012

It is a new approach to luxury in the car, according to Pininfarina's school of thought. The Cambiano is launched, a concept car that is elegant and sporty, refined and comfortable. An enticing combination of pure, cutting edge design and uncompromising engineering that respects the environment in both in the engine and in the choice of materials.

The Cambiano is an expression of Pininfarina today, embodying all the company's skills in terms of style, planning and research in the field of sustainable mobility. It is no coincidence that its chosen name is that of the town where Pininfarina has its headquarters. In 2012 the company celebrates a dual anniversary: the 30th anniversary of the Style Centre, which was set up in Cambiano in 1982 as "Pininfarina Studi e Ricerche", and the 10th anniversary of the Engineering Centre, which was inaugurated there in 2002, adding contract engineering to its activities of styling and niche design/production, and concentrating cutting edge technological tools and a team of outstanding specialists in one place.

The luxury sports saloon embodies the innovative archetypes of Pininfarina design in full. Another example was a milestone in the company's history, the Florida II, a concept car of 1957 which the founder Pinin Farina conceived and built for his own personal use, a saloon-coupé with an architecture and line that influenced global production for many years. In a way, it was Pininfarina's first real concept car.

Today, in 2012, the Cambiano redefines and reinterprets the ideas that are the basic tenets of Pininfarina design: harmonious proportions, taut lines and fluid surfaces, and a simple element that extends all along the side to underline its dynamism. The result is a very strong visual impact, emphasised by an extremely pure, aerodynamic shape based on essential and purely functional stylistic elements.

The Cambiano breaks with the general trend of design that is overloaded with elements, and confidently embraces the return of pure form as the absolute value, in the best "tradition" of Italian Style, reflecting the deepest essence of Pininfarina Design.

The Cambiano reveals its true character at first glance, starting from the unconventional layout of the doors: on the driver's side the car is a sports coupe with a single door, but on the passenger side there are two doors that open from the centre with no central pillar. This simplifies access and makes the most of the spacious, luminous passenger compartment.

The Cambiano is an expression of the car as a global project, and there is total consistency between every detail of the exterior and interior design, and between the colours, materials and the use of technology. Elegance and formal harmony blend in the association of complementary values: balance and contrast, the relation between full and empty, between solid and transparent. Formal purity and simplicity become elements of iconic design.

The proportions of the Cambiano convey dynamism and fluidity, thanks to the low tapered front and the light, fleeting rear-mounted cabin. The body of the car is one of simple, solid volumes, with large taut but sensual surfaces, enhanced by the innovative golden grey colour and iridescent blue reflections specifically developed for this project by Standox. The metal inserts in the sides are a new take on decorative mouldings and they continue all along the side glazing, incorporating the lighting and opening functions of the doors. The large honeycomb roof is ethereal and transparent and completes the body of the car, imparting a sense of solidity and of elegant refinement.

The front, with its clean, essential design, returns to a motif that is typical of Pininfarina: headlights incorporated into the grille and protruding wheel arches. The grille also incorporates a dynamic opening that is an air inlet for the turbo. The LED front headlights are simple "blocks" of pure, crystalline light. The tail lights and side indicators are almost intangible: only the light exists, appearing as if by magic on the surface of the bodywork. In the purest spirit of Pininfarina, the essentiality of the form becomes a very elegant expression of pure function.

The light is an integral part of the Cambiano design concept, inside and out. The relationship with natural light is simplified by the panoramic roof, which is translucent in some areas and transparent in others. With a carbon honeycomb structure mounted between the outside glass and a polycarbonate inner lining, the roof enhances visibility in the car - heightening the sense of luminosity and space inside.

The light is not only a natural element, but also emphasises the sensory experience of the passenger compartment thanks to a refined and functional lighting system, which exploits light channels inserted into the ceiling, the doors and the floor. The Cambiano is the first car to incorporate into the passenger compartment a contemporary video-art projection, created specifically by the Spanish artist Javier Fernandez with a very personal language of manipulated, overlapping images. The work is projected onto the ceiling where it can be enjoyed by rear seat passengers during the drive. Contemporary art, a preeminent feature of luxury, is thus incorporated into the concept of the car, leaving behind its elite aura and becoming accessible.

The complementarity between apparently contrasting elements is also expressed in the interior. Natural materials contrast with sophisticated details, and the physicality of pure matter with the immateriality of the most advanced forms of communication, which simplify the interaction between the driver and the car and his surroundings. It is a fascinating mixture of luxury craftsmanship and innovation: exclusive materials and outstanding manual work combined with the use of advanced technologies and innovative concepts.

Elegant and modern design converges in the interior with comfort, ergonomics and environmental sustainability, maintaining the same stylistic approach of the exterior. Fluid, sensual surfaces, a light, essential environment, with clearly defined functional zones: interactive controls and surfaces turned towards the driver, a more comfortable and tactile area for the other passengers. A fine, light facia, light but enveloping front seats suspended between the consoles and the sill, in a delicate balance between solid and hollow designed to create tension. The asymmetrical access to the passenger compartment determines the leaf structure of the two rear seats, which are almost suspended in the car, where occupants enjoy an environment that is made more comfortable and refined by the generous legroom. The interior is upholstered with Foglizzo leather, personalised in certain points with a special diamond point punched patter. The leather used on the Cambiano was chosen from the Pininfarina Leather Collection for Foglizzo, a collection of personalised natural and imitation leathers developed by the two Turin companies. The uprights and door panels are upholstered with polylactic acid, a plastic derived from sugar substances, treacle and milk serum, a solution that reduces the use of petroleum.

Like the entire lower part of the passenger compartment, the perfectly flat floor is made of recycled wood. This is the strongest and most typical element of the interior of the Cambiano, the fusion of matter and transformation, technological research and respect of cultural and environmental values. A choice dictated by the discovery of a wonderful material, which is both poor and noble: the wood of the "briccole", the poles of European oak used to indicate the navigation channels and moorings inside the Venice lagoon.

Riva1920, a historical Italian producer of solid wood furniture that has been working with Pininfarina Extra for over ten years, had the brilliant idea of recuperating the wood of these 12 metre poles, thousands of which are replaced every year. The wood is marked by the lagoon water and by marine microorganisms, which come alive again, creating a new manufact that is destined to last. Following the same principle, Riva1920 has created all the wooden elements for the interior of the Cambiano, using numerical control milling machine followed by manual final polishing and oiling. The result is surprising and evocative. The material is about to embark on its third lease of life, and it reveals its unique texture and the wear and tear of passing time: the holes made by the marine molluscs are still visible on the surface. Not only. This complex, delicate technological craftsmanship makes the interior of the Cambiano something unique that expresses an outstanding level of creativity and experience, thanks to this eco-friendly re-use of a natural, discarded material with the enormous evocative force of the huge cultural, emotional and artistic dimension attributed to Venice all over the world.

The atmosphere of extreme refinement in the car is underlined by another precious detail in the instrumentation: the timepiece manufactured in Limited Edition by the Swiss watchmaker Bovet 1822. This "Cambiano" Chronograph designed by Pininfarina can be removed from the dashboard and worn as a wristwatch, or used as a sports timer and even a table clock, due to its convertible concept.

The instrumentation of the driving position is divided into three priority zones according to use: the car's functions and performance, navigation and comfort, multimedia and connections. The main display shows the power delivered by the 4 electric motors backed up by the turbine, the battery charge and the fuel gauge, the total range and the range with all-electric operation, the driving mode (Ecocity, Snow/Ice, Efficiency, Sport, Drifting), and the speedometer. The driver monitors the navigator, the warning messages and the multimedia functions on the secondary display. The "swap" control transfers the navigator and other functions to the central display and vice versa. And a touch pad gives access to the interactive instrumentation and climate control. The driver controls the lights and the gear selector on the steering wheel, while the "Start" control and a device holder are on the centre tunnel.

The attention paid to detail is evident from the work carried out on the tyres. For the Cambiano Pininfarina specifically developed with Fate, Argentina's largest tyre production and exporting company, the first tyre for top of the range cars, Concept Tyre, from Eximia by Pininfarina. Fate's experts engineers contributed with precise studies and creative capability, making possible a further step in design, technology and security. Concept Tyre, from Eximia by Pininfarina, synthesizes the last progresses in the search of perfection: environmental care, superior constructive quality, and an advanced esthetic model.

Cambiano: new architecture, a generous range and maximum attention to environmental sustainability

The Cambiano also sets new parameters for eco-sustainability in the high performance luxury car segment, its strong points include electric drive which guarantees zero emissions in the urban cycle and a range with all-electric operation that is higher than any offered on the market today. And how could it be otherwise on a concept car from Pininfarina, whose genes have always included sustainable mobility, now one of the pillars of the company's industrial plan?

Pininfarina was concentrating on aerodynamics and alternative sources of energy as early as the 1970s: for example, with prototypes like the CNR Energetica 1 or Ecos, the first electric car developed by Pininfarina. In the 1990s Pininfarina offered new solutions with the Ethos, a family of 3 cars with an aluminium chassis, a body of recyclable resin, and an innovative combustion engine with low emissions, culminating in 1995 with the Ethos 3EV, another zero emissions car. More recently Pininfarina engineers turned their attention to research into hybrid vehicles with the Eta Beta and Metrocubo projects, the focussing on safety in 2004 with the Nido. In 2008 the Sintesi proposed a futuristic concept cap supplied by 4 fuel cells (one per wheel). Which brings us to the present: the BlueCar in 2008, the Nido EV in 2010 and the Hybus in 2011, a project to convert buses currently equipped with Euro 0-1-2 engines into buses with serial hybrid power packs.

The consolidated technological expertise and the ability to manage cutting-edge projects with great flexibility and innovation are expressed in the Cambiano. The perfect integration of the styling and engineering activities has produced an extended range plug-in electric car that combines top performance and roominess with the comfort of a luxury car and total respect of the environment. The type of engine chosen and the position of the battery pack in the rear of the car (under the luggage compartment) have created a vehicle architecture with a perfectly flat floor, that is regular and low, guaranteeing excellent access, liveability on board and a lower centre of gravity.

The drive system is based on four electric motors, one for each wheel, and the respective deceleration unit. The four motors, which are produced by Magneti Marelli, are mounted on the front and rear frames and each delivers a continuous supply of 60 kW with peaks of 150 kW for a total of 600 kW maximum power output, with torque of 640 Nm. Each motor is controlled separately and electronically to guarantee various functions, including energy regeneration when decelerating and braking, traction control with the option of continuously varying the torque split between the wheels independently (Vectoring Stability Program) and anti-lock braking assistance. The traction control strategies make the vehicle even more enjoyable to drive, guaranteeing outstanding performance and maximum safety over all types of routes.

The drive system incorporates an APU (Auxiliary Power Unit) to charge the batteries and, when necessary, to supply energy directly to the motors: this is a 50 kW Bladon Jets micro turbine which normally runs on diesel but which can be calibrated to be compatible with various types of fuel. In addition to this advantage, the turbine is smaller than those of piston engines with a similar power delivery, it weighs just 40 kg, and generates low polluting emissions. The micro turbine chosen for the Cambiano has technical features that make it particularly quiet and vibration-free, enhancing comfort for passengers. This type of extended range electric drive is thus amply in line with EURO 6 legislation, and is already compatible with possible evolutions (EURO 7 ready).

The battery pack developed by FAAM is installed between the seats and the rear axle, where it is protected from possible collisions and easily replaced during servicing. The battery is of the high power, high energy density lithium ion type, has a capacity of 50 kW/h, a peak power delivery of 500 kW, and can be recharged in 6 hours using a 6 Kw/h grid and in 52 minutes with the APU. Combined with the micro turbine, it guarantees a range of 205 km in the urban cycle in all-electric mode, and a total range in the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) mixed cycle of over 800 km in extended range mode, higher than that of luxury sports cars with conventional drive systems. The battery is the fruit of FAAM's experience in the development of lithium batteries. FAAM's research into lithium ion cells will make it possible in the short term to achieve specific energy density values that are more than double those of lithium ion batteries currently on the market. This, associated with a larger specific power reserve, will make it the ideal solution for future electric cars. This result has been made possible by the improvement in the specific capacity of the electrodes: current anodic and cathodic materials are replaced by materials with a higher specific capacity, cells with high potential cathodes based on lithium nickel manganese oxide, LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4, with a spinel structure.

The composition of the pack is simplified by the small size of each cell, which allows for a certain amount of flexibility and adaption when installed on the vehicle. The battery case was designed to respect current crash test standards and it complies with ISO 26262 vehicle safety regulations. The battery is liquid cooled and protected by an insulating casing that guarantees that it will function in all use conditions, with a temperature range of da -20° C to +60° C. Battery functioning is monitored by a BMS (Battery Management System) unit, which verifies that the individual cells operate within the established normal functioning range. In the event of a malfunction, the battery is immediately isolated from the rest of the vehicle.

The Cambiano's generous range was achieved by the innovative drive system, by focussing attention on aerodynamic efficiency, obtained in the Pininfarina Wind Tunnel, and by a significant weight reduction: the Cambiano weighs 1695 kg empty, an excellent result if we consider the size of the car. The chassis is light, resistant and modular, comprising a carbon fibre cell for occupants and two aluminium modules, one at the front and one at the rear, which act as crumple cells, absorbing impact and supporting all the mechanical parts. This engineering solution allows the same modules to be used for an entire family of derived vehicles. The central cell can be built with materials and dimensions that will allow it to adapt to the various requirements of cost, manufacturing volumes and furnishings of the cabin of a future derived vehicle The front and rear structural modules will also adapt effectively to different wheelbases and tracks.

Where the energy management system is concerned, the objective is to minimise consumption and polluting emissions into the atmosphere, keeping turbine operating times to a minimum. This is triggered automatically when the battery charge falls below 20% of maximum capacity and turns off automatically when the speed is below 50 km/h (like restricted traffic areas in city centres). When necessary, the driver can activate or deactivate the turbine manually. On the road, the need to generate energy with the micro turbine will depend on how the vehicle is used, on the type of route (urban, rural, out of town) and on traffic. This information can be obtained by GPS navigator. The turbine can be controlled ready to generate a certain calculated quantity of energy, trying to keep its ignition and operating times to a minimum.

The Cambiano also delivers road-holding at physical limits in all road conditions and types of use. The driver can choose his preferred driving mode using a selector lever. For example, the Ecocity mode zeros local emissions, activates exclusively electric drive and excludes the turbine. In Snow/Ice mode, the load sensors on the four suspension units calculate the available friction coefficient: this automatically limits performance. Efficiency mode regulates the acceleration and top speed to maximise the range, but does not penalise enjoyment excessively. The Sport mode makes driving more exciting, accelerating from 0 to 100 in 4.2 sec, and limits the continuous top speed to 250 km/h. And finally, with Drifting mode, the individual control of the electric motors artificially sets the behaviour of the limited slip differentials. It is also possible to adjust the front/rear drive split so that the vehicle can be driven in rally mode, underlining the entertainment of driving on snow-covered or dirt roads.

Read More

Peugeot 4008, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

•  Peugeot 4008, 2013

In line with Peugeot's range enhancement and development strategy, the Peugeot 4008 will be launched initially outside Europe, in the market which will represent 70% of its sales.

With its distinctive, elegant appearance and its 4X4, SUV features, the 4008 is a modern response to the needs of all-terrain vehicle customers, in a very prominent market segment.

A RESOLUTELY INTERNATIONAL RANGE
At the heart of a very dynamic world market in the C segment of all-terrain SUVs, the Peugeot 4008 will be distributed to more than 50 countries.

Presented as a world premiere at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, the Peugeot 4008 will go on sale initially outside Europe starting in April 2012. First in Russia and the Ukraine, then among other places in China, Australia, New Zealand, Argentina and in Europe from May 2012.

Listening to customers
The world market of all-terrain SUVs has been growing strongly since 2005, in particular in the C and D segments which in 4 years have almost doubled in Russia and tripled in Europe.

In Russia, all-terrain vehicles have long been predominant accounting for 20% of the market, the majority being vehicles of the compact SUV segment C.

In China and in Western Europe the market share of SUVs has reached 10%, and covers a variety of expectations. In Europe, this market share of the SUVs in segments C and D is increasing to the detriment of the SUVs of the E segment.

In China, it is the attraction of the vehicle's status that is sought after. In Europe, it fulfils the desire for distinctive multipurpose vehicles, compact and with an environmental impact comparable to that of a conventional saloon.

With the 4008, Peugeot is continuing its international offensive to win new customers by offering a young, modern and upmarket range which is the perfect response to the changes in these markets.

A response to varied markets with common signs of change
Firmly rooted in the world of the SUV, the Peugeot 4008 combines strength, power and driving safety in all circumstances. Thanks to its four-wheel drive, which is always available, it gives a feeling of freedom and greater peace of mind when driving. Comfortable, compact and manoeuvrable, the Peugeot 4008 SUV is also perfectly suited to the urban environment.

In addition, the 4008 plays the card of differentiation with its modern style, expressing both vivacity and reactivity, and its highend elegance.

A combination of temperament, elegance and spontaneity, the Peugeot 4008 emits an attractive, driving energy able to draw together a wide target customer base.

With its unique style, strong and distinctive, its handling qualities, its versatility of use and its equipment, the 4008 is the reflection of a modern and upmarket vision of the all-terrain vehicle which will have the ability to win over the new sensibilities of 4X4 SUV customers.

A complete range of all-terrain vehicles
With this new 4X4 SUV, Peugeot completes its range of vehicles suited to the various expectations of all-terrain customers. With its strong personality, for international destinations, the Peugeot 4008 is aimed both at customers who already own an all-terrain vehicle and at those looking for an alternative to saloons or MPVs, a vehicle synonymous with leisure and driving pleasure.

In Europe, it is targeted more specifically at customers who appreciate a strong and dynamic ability, with dimensions suited to multipurpose use and efficient fuel consumption.

In addition to the 4007, but also the 3008 and its HYbrid4 version, the Peugeot 4008 fulfils the expectations of the different markets showing strong growth in the compact SUV segment.

A DISTINCTIVE STYLE
The strength of the stylistic design of the 4008 lies in the combination of dynamism and aesthetics. Its proportions and its lines hollowed out as close as possible to the mechanics suggest its dynamic qualities as a vehicle conceived and dimensioned for the road and action.

Its structured and pure style blending sportiness and neat aesthetics gives it a positive energy, upmarket and modern, without arrogance.

A strong personality, obviously a Peugeot!
The Peugeot stylists wanted to give the 4008, born out of the PSA Group & Mitsubishi partnership, a strong personality firmly rooted in the world of the Marque.

A successful gamble, you see at a glance the originality of its style and the new stylistic codes of the marque which are judiciously adapted, like the floating grille and the feline design of the lamp units with visual signature: at the front, a line of LED daylight running lamps that complement the headlamps and three red claws sculpted rear lamps.

The off-road character has been emphasised by adopting a vertical design of grille, the inclusion of body sill protectors and prominent wheel arch protection trims, to accommodate large wheels enhanced by the sophisticated design of the wheel rims.

The almost-horizontal bonnet grooves and the style line - which extends to the rear wing where it descends again crossing the lamp - are a distinctive feature and appear to hollow out along the body side, accentuating the strong and dynamic aspect of the Peugeot 4008.

Requirement and range enhancement
The work carried out by the Peugeot Design Style team, down to the smallest detail, gives the Peugeot 4008 a high class elegance in line with its positioning.

The exterior is, among other things, set off with chromed components, one surrounding the floating grille, two others surrounding the side air intakes and a bead adorning the tailgate.

The interior ambiance is enhanced by the choice of materials, like the soft texture fascia, to the instrument panel visor and the lacquered black decoration of the centre console.

A panoramic glass roof provides extensive light for the occupants of the passenger compartment, a feeling of space and wellbeing, and for greater exclusivity adjustable ambiance lighting offers the occupants pleasant night lighting by means of amber side LEDs.

The instrument panel, back-lit both day and night, incorporates round and deep counters, which impress a dynamic style and make the information easier to read. It offers a multifunction screen, amber or colour depending on the level of finish. The steering wheel is padded or leather trimmed and permits control of the audio functions, cruise control and Bluetooth hands-free kit.

Its features, in particular the roadholding, and its equipment - like the Open & Go system, 18" alloy wheels, a touch screen navigation system and a reversing camera … - are all present in this modern and high class all-terrain vehicle.

MULTIPURPOSE, COMFORTABLE SUV
The platform of the 4008, taken in part from the 4007, has been reduced in length by shorter front and rear overhangs (- 30 cm in length). Its long wheelbase (2.67 m) and its wide tracks (Front: 1.545 m and Rear: 1.540 m) have been retained to guarantee good occupant space in the front and rear, as well as a generous boot volume of 416 dm3 VDA 210 with spare wheel and up to 442 dm3 with puncture repair kit.

These characteristics and its exterior dimensions - 4.34 m long, 1.80 m wide with a height of 1.63 m - make the Peugeot 4008 particularly versatile. Its compactness - a promise of true manoeuvrability - and its occupant space, among the best in the segment, make it a vehicle suitable for everyday use, including in town, and for leisure journeys or family holidays. 4X4 transmission "on request"

- the 2WD two-wheel drive mode for use on a dry tarmacked road on which the driver considers there is no risk of loss of grip, in this case the vehicle operates with front wheel drive only for optimised consumption;

- the 4WD four-wheel drive mode is the normal and regular mode of use of the vehicle, the distribution of the torque between the front and rear axles being controlled by the electronic unit. This guarantees optimum roadholding, regardless of the conditions of grip. For example, at a constant speed of 50 mph (80 km/h) on a dry road, 85% of the traction will be provided by the front axle, whereas the rear wheels will be used more in the case of sharp acceleration or when the surface becomes slippery;

- the Lock four-wheel drive locking mode should be used in conditions of reduced grip, the transmission to the 4 driving wheels becomes permanent with even greater distribution of torque to the rear wheels than in 4WD mode. This is particularly the case at low speed when 50% more torque, with a maximum of 82%, will be distributed to the rear compared with the automatic 4WD mode.

This type of transmission will represent more than 80% of sales of the 4008. Peugeot's new SUV will in fact only be offered in a 4X4 version in certain countries, including those of Europe.

An adapted and powerful range of engines
Environmental efficiency, performance and liveliness were taken into account in the choice of a range of engines adapted to the expectations of the different markets.

So, the Peugeot 4008 benefits from power trains combining modernity, performance, pleasure and protection of the environment: petrol and diesel engines, complying with Euro 5 or Euro 4 standards, 5 and 6 speed manual or automated (CVT) gearboxes with steering wheel paddles.

To optimise consumption, the STOP & START system is available on most of the engines - the 2 diesels and the 1.6 l petrol - and the manual gearboxes have a gear shift indicator on the instrument panel. There will be 4 engines:
    Petrol
        1.6 l 86 kW (115 hp) 152 Nm, 5-speed manual;
        2.0 l 113 kW (150 hp) 198 Nm, 5-speed manual or CVT.
    HDi Diesel
        1.6 l HDi PEF 84 kW (115 hp) 270/280 Nm with Overboost, 6-speed manual;
        1.8 l HDi PEF 110 kW (150 hp) 300 Nm, 6-speed manual.

For Europe, the 4008 offered with the two HDi diesel engines. In the other countries, it marketed with the most appropriate power train(s).

With the 1.6 l petrol and HDi diesel engines, the Peugeot 4008 achieves record environmental performance in the segment. From 119 g/km of CO2 in 4X2 mode and 129 g/km in 4X4 mode with the HDi 115 hp engine and from 135 g/km with the 1.6 l petrol engine, the 4008 is economical to run, particularly given its low consumption from 4.6 l/100 km in 4X2 mode and 4.9 l/100 km in 4X4 mode, and attractive as regards company car tax. So, the Peugeot 4008 merits its status as a modern SUV and its place in the heart of our cities, just as much as a conventional saloon.

SAFETY OF THE HIGHEST LEVEL
The 4008 benefits from a high level of primary safety, thanks to its road holding and its equipment, in particular:
    the ESP fitted as standard incorporating the anti-skid and traction control functions;
    as regards the lighting, equipment which is standard or optional according to country and level of finish: automatic switching on of the lights, headlamp wash, fog lamps as standard from the Active level, Xenon headlamps with headlamp wash and automatic height adjustment.

Read More

Nissan Almera, 2013

 

 

 

•  Nissan Almera, 2013

The all-new Nissan Almera, launched at the 2012 Moscow International Autosalon, has been designed specifically to meet the unique demands of the Russian market.

It combines exceptional roominess and genuine refinement with a robust chassis and proven drivetrain, while the design mixes contemporary Nissan styling cues with classic features to create a modern yet timeless look.

In addition to its size, features and its Japanese badge, the new Nissan Almera  also be a highly affordable, rational and aspirational purchase matched by an unequalled ownership experience.

The car  built on a newly installed line in Togliatti operating in full compliance with global production standards.

The new Nissan Almera in detail
Nissan Almera is a classic four-door, five-seat saloon with a timeless body design showing clear Nissan DNA. The long wheelbase helps to create a spacious cabin while the roomy luggage area is cleverly disguised by the sweep of the roofline and rear window which blends into the trunk lid.

At the front, Nissan's familiar wide four bar grille is chromed - as are the door handles - to underline the quality image. But showing the attention to detail that has helped to create the new Almera, the chrome incorporates anti-corrosion technology which was specially developed by Nissan.

It has a unique trivalent chrome compound which withstands attack from the chemicals used to de-ice the roads in Russia to maintain the premium chrome look.

Biggest interior in the class
Four wide-opening doors allow easy access to the interior which is notably larger than class rivals. In fact, the rear compartment knee room is actually more generous than that offered in some premium D segment cars and is easily capable of carrying three adults in comfort. As well as providing more interior space than rivals, at 500 litres Nissan Almera's luggage trunk is among the largest in its class.

The luggage area itself is another example of the care that has gone into the car's design. A wide opening lid reveals a deep and practical load space, free from obstructions - the trunk lid hinges, for example, are hidden while the tool roll and jack are also stored away so as not to interfere with the load space.

A handle mounted on inside the lid means the trunk can be closed without the need to touch the invariably dirty exterior of the car. And under the boot floor, there's ample space for the full sized spare wheel.

Nissan Almera is 4,656mm from bumper to bumper and has the longest wheelbase in the class, a full 2,700mm.

Proven, robust chassis
Integral to Nissan Almera's capability to withstand the local conditions is its chassis. Almera's enhanced chassis features a strong strut-type front suspension allied to a rear beam axle.

A front anti-roll bar improves handling performance while the bar, the rear beam axle and the coil springs have all been stiffened to provide a highly comfortable ride allied to an inherent strength to ensure the car can withstand the conditions.

During test development, engineers from Nissan Technical Centre Europe (NTCE) have driven hundreds of thousands of kilometres over varied roads in the region to fine tune the springs and dampers to the conditions.

At the same time, noise reduction programmes have resulted in the use of thicker steel for the platform to reduce stone chipping and splash noise, while the upper body structure has been strengthened and stiffened giving both refinement and durability improvements.

The result is a car that provides class-leading comfort and handling at the same time as being capable of withstanding severe winter conditions and meeting the needs and requirements of the Russian customers.

Underbody protection
Further proof of Nissan Almera's durability can be found under the car. Offering extra protection against poor road surfaces, the bottom of the engine bay is covered by a 2mm thick steel plate while potentially vulnerable brake and fuel pipes running under the car are also covered by a steel plate.

With a generous ground clearance of 160mm - reducing to 145mm only at the steel plate protecting the engine - Nissan Almera is, once again, one of the best in class.

Also found under the car is a small but highly effective aero deflector which improves the car's aerodynamics for better high-speed stability.

Engine/transmission
Power comes from another tried and trusted source, Nissan's proven 1.6-litre, 16-valve petrol engine developing 75kW (102hp) and 145 Nm of torque for competitive performance and economy. Nissan Almera will be available with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.

Winter performance is enhanced by a powerful heating and ventilation system (heated seats and door mirrors are available depending on the model grade) while cold start performance has been optimised. The wipers have been engineered to clear as much of the large windscreen as possible and are aided by a large 5-litre washer tank that needs less frequent refilling... though when it does it is easily accessible in the engine bay.

Three grades
Following established Nissan practice Almera will be available in three grades: Welcome, Comfort and top-of-the-range Tekna.

Standard equipment on Comfort models, expected to be the biggest selling grade, includes remote central door locking, heated power door mirrors, fog lamps, a trip computer and height adjustment for the driver's seat.

There are chromed accents to the air vents while the trim material is patterned. Large door mirrors are finished in body colour and the door handles and trunk finisher are chromed while the front seats are heated to provide extra comfort in winter months. Air conditioning and alloy wheels are available as options.

Top Tekna models have air conditioning as standard, along with power windows at the rear, four speakers, a leather wrapped steering wheel and 15-inch alloy wheels. The audio system is a fully integrated double-din AM/FM tuner with single disc CD player and Bluetooth connectivity for mobile phones. An Aux-in jack socket to connect a MP3 player is also standard.

The sophisticated Nissan Connect communications system is available as an option on Tekna models, making Nissan Almera the only car in its class available with a fully integrated navigation system.

Nissan Connect has a five-inch full colour touch screen with 2D/3D mapping and voice guidance. Updates can be downloaded from the Internet and uploaded to the system via USB. The audio system includes a single disc CD player, an AM/FM tuner, an Aux-in jack and Bluetooth connectivity for mobile phones and audio streaming.

All grades have active and passive safety features including anti-lock brakes, plus driver and front passenger airbags as standard.

The colour palette has seven exterior body colours - a solid white and six metallic shades.

Read More