Saturday, September 7, 2013

Dacia Duster, 2014


  • Dacia Duster, 2014

Emphatic 4x4 styling
The front end has been upgraded, with a redesigned grille, adorned by two chrome-plated strips and housing a new, lower-set air intake and new double-optic headlights with daytime running lights. The upgrades underscore the car's on-road stance and robust, "go-anywhere" character.
 
New Duster-labeled roof bars with slatted supports underline the car's SUV character, while new 16-inch "Dark Metal" alloy wheels and "Mud and Snow" tires revitalize the profile of New Dacia Duster.

At the back, new lights echo the styling cues of the front end, notably though the use of chrome. A chrome-plated tail pipe and new "4WD" lettering round out the exterior styling changes and further boost the car's personality.

New Dacia Duster, presented at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, has been upgraded but retains the design features largely responsible for its success. The new model sports more emphatic 4x4 design cues.
Read More

Friday, September 6, 2013

Citroen Cactus Concept, 2013

 
 
 
 
  •  Citroen Cactus Concept, 2013

Pure and functional styling
The styling of Citroen Cactus marries the aesthetic to the practical, with designers having sought to find the right volumes and extend efficiency to the smallest details. The idea was to keep only the essential, and optimise that essence to obtain a form of natural perfection. The approach allowed the designers to break free from classic automotive cues and explore ingenious solutions to bring customers real equipment and features.

Citroen Cactus is more than a concept car; it is a manifest of the future models in the C line. Citroen is shifting the paradigm with the new concept car, shedding the superfluous and bringing well-being firmly into the limelight. Citroen Cactus is a desirable, user-friendly car that forges an unprecedented harmony between distinctive yet pragmatic design, comfort for all occupants, and easy-to-use technology.

Genesis
The origins of Citroen Cactus date back to the reveal of the C-Cactus concept car at the 2007 Frankfurt show. C-Cactus was a radical automotive approach that posed a number of key questions: What do motorists expect from cars in today's world? And which equipment and features really count? The fascinating exercise pushed engineers and designers to make sweeping changes and set problems differently in order to explore new solutions. The pragmatic approach eschewed the superfluous to concentrate on what makes motorists feel good. The end result, Citroen Cactus, is a manifest that previews forthcoming models in the C line.

The body styling of Citroen Cactus seems original and obvious, both at the same time, lingering easily in the memory like that of all great cars that have marked their time. The styling is easy to identify, with:
  • Pure and smooth surfaces in pearlescent white
  • Flowing, aggression-free shapes
  • Floating quarterlight and roof
  • Contrasting design components, each one with a function (protection with Lama grey Airbumps and textured black wheel arches; transport with lacquered black roof arches; cabin light with the large panoramic roof).

One component stands out immediately through its originality: the Airbump.
Located on the sides and the bumpers of the car, the design component expresses a new approach that gives style a function. The Airbump strengthens the styling of Citroen Cactus, heightening its personality with its originality and personalisation possibilities. The supple skin of the Airbump features a soft treatment that resists scratches and includes air capsules that dampen impact.

Citroen Cactus has optimal proportions for extra efficiency and driving comfort:
  •     The dimensions of a compact hatchback (4.21 m long and 1.75 m wide)
  •     An ideal balance between one-third glazed area and two-thirds wing surface
  •     High ground clearance (21 cm) but with an optimised height of just 1.53 m
  •     Reduced overhang, with the wheels set firmly in the corners

The styling of Citroen Cactus evokes technology and perceived quality and is entirely free of aggression.

The front end, previewing the visual identity of future models in the C line, is characterised by:
  • Smooth surfaces showcasing the chevrons
  • Flowing forms with a seamless progression from bonnet to wing
  • A high-tech light signature with LED daytime running lights and lamps built in to the Airbumps

The styling at the back respects the same principle with 3D-effect LED lights built in to the wide Airbump protecting the boot.

The singular and radical design of Citroen Cactus also promises a warm, ergonomic and comfortable interior. The absence of side windows, rear window and B pillars beckons onlookers to discover the cabin inside, which has been entirely reworked in terms of architecture as well as in the design of colours and materials.

Ingenious design
The first objective with Citroen Cactus was to free up space inside for the driver and passengers, bringing them more ease and user-friendliness and, hence, more comfort.

The slender, floating dashboard fully frees up the floor below and on its upper part offers the front passenger a capacious and easy-access storage space. The dashboard design was made possible by using a 100% digital interface and by optimising the organisation of the driver's station, in particular by:
  • Replacing the instrument cluster with a 7-inch screen
  • Switching control buttons for an 8-inch touchscreen connected to all vehicle functions (air conditioning, audio, satnav, connected services and driver aids)
  • Installing the passenger airbag on the ceiling
  • Replacing the traditional gearstick with push-button controls on the lower part of the dashboard and steering-wheel paddles

The new architectural approach also informs the front seats, which were designed sofa-style for extra comfort and human warmth.

Extra comfort is also delivered by the panoramic roof, thermally treated to let in the light but not the heat. It protects passengers from UVs with technology similar to that used for category-4 sunglasses.

The second goal with Citroen Cactus interior was to provide a stylish and relaxed atmosphere. The interior layout frees up plenty of space and focuses on authentic and natural materials. The seats and doors are upholstered in a combination of two materials evoking contemporary furniture: a blue heathered-cotton fabric and natural "camel" leather (vegetable tanned) also used on the dashboard and steering wheel.

In a nod to the luggage sector, the design of the door handles and the storage space on the upper part of the dashboard was informed by decorative travel-trunk components.

The design choices for Citroen Cactus were guided not just by interior architecture intelligence but by a whole new approach to the automobile. Citroen Cactus brings drivers a new motoring experience and total peace of mind, reuniting them with the pleasure and freedom inherent in car travel - a simple, communal, day-to-day pleasure.

User-friendly technology
Citroen Cactus technologies are easy to use, economical and environmental in use, accessible to all and connected, and resolutely focused on the new needs of motorists.

The new Hybrid Air drivetrain is a case in point. The full-hybrid technology combines compressed air and the hydraulics of a PureTech petrol engine. This powertrain excellence is written into the Brand's DNA and has led to breakthrough performance, with fuel consumption of under 3 l/100 km.

Hybrid Air technology has a reduced environmental footprint (no additional battery) and is broadly affordable thanks to:
    Attractive cost in use (45% reduction in fuel consumption in urban driving)
    Easy maintenance and servicing through the combination of proven technologies
    No compromises on interior space

Digital, tactile and connected! All the controls are grouped on the 8-inch touchscreen in the centre of the dashboard, ergonomic, easy to use and offering access to Citroen Multicity Connect. The driver and passengers benefit from a portal of web-connected applications that takes vehicle data - including mileage, speed, range and GPS position - into account to generate information adapted to motorists' needs, warning them of risk areas, locating service stations and identifying tourist destinations, among other advantages.
Read More

Thursday, September 5, 2013

Chevrolet Camaro Convertible, 2014

 
  • Chevrolet Camaro Convertible, 2014 

The latest edition of the Camaro Z28, considered by many to be the most iconic and exclusive model in Camaro history, was unveiled at the New York Auto Show. Powered by a 7.0L V8 engine developed in conjunction with Corvette Racing and capable of churning out an estimated 500 hp (373 kW) and 637 Nm of torque, the new Camaro Z28 is suitably equipped to live up to the nameplate's proud heritage.

At the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, Chevrolet will debut the new Camaro convertible and coupe. Featuring a fast, low-slung silhouette and Chevrolet's new MyLink connected radio, the latest edition of the famed American muscle car represents the most significant redesign since the introduction of the fifth-generation Camaro as a concept vehicle in 2006.

Enhanced aerodynamics
The new Camaro boasts improved high-performance aerodynamics that provide more efficient cooling and stability at high speeds. The front fascia has a wider lower grille and a narrower upper grille, while the functional hood vent helps reduce heat and aerodynamic lift. At the rear, a sculptural deck lid, horizontal lamps and a diffuser complete the new design. Both the coupe and the convertible sport a spoiler with integral antenna.

Power is supplied by the proven 6.2L V8 engine which is mated to a six-speed manual or an automatic transmission. The automatic transmission model includes active fuel management and cam phasing (VVT). The manual transmission version churns out 432 hp (318 kW) at 5,900 rpm and delivers a torque of 569 Nm at 4,600 rpm. Zero to 100 acceleration is 5.2 seconds for the manual coupe and 5.4 seconds for the manual convertible.

The interior offers modern convenience and connectivity
Entering the new Camaro is straightforward and comfortable, thanks to standard remote keyless entry; on the automatic variant, customers can opt for a remote engine start functionality. Leather-appointed power adjustable Recaro sport bucket seats can be selected in the front for the coupe variant.

Further interior highlights include a new color heads-up display and the new Chevrolet MyLink connected radio that is located in the center stack. The radio is built around a seven-inch high resolution full-color touch screen and has a clean, icon-based display menu.

The new Chevrolet MyLink connected radio allows users to open phone books, personal playlists, and photo galleries from compatible smartphones. Connectivity will be provided through USB, Bluetooth and aux-in. In addition to voice recognition, the system offers text-to-speech capability, which allows users to listen to text messages from their smartphone. A rearview camera is standard.

In addition, customers can opt to purchase an integrated navigation system with coverage of all of Europe. As is the case with all Chevrolet MyLink radios, owners will be able to upgrade the new system with dedicated apps once they become available.

Competitive price tag for a true muscle car
The new Camaro will arrive at select Chevrolet dealerships across Europe toward the end of 2013. With prices starting from €39,990 for the coupe and €44,990 for the convertible in Germany, it is a compelling choice for performance-oriented drivers.

There is, however, much more to the Camaro than great value and affordability. Its rugged strength, iconic design and unique muscle car attributes have stolen the hearts and imaginations of countless people and have provided subject matter for wall posters, T-shirts, and songs for decades.

Famously described to journalists in summer 1966 as a "small vicious animal that eats Mustangs", the original Camaro was built around a unibody structure and a 3.9L straight six engine. Since then, five progressively more capable generations of the Camaro have thrilled car fans around the globe. Until 1968, Camaros were assembled from complete knock down (CKD) kits at two General Motors' European plants in Antwerp, Belgium, and Biel, Switzerland.

Performance has always been an essential ingredient of Camaro's DNA and consequently, it has seen action in many forms of auto racing, including the spectacular drag races, where specially prepared vehicles, usually two at a time, compete along a straight course to make it first across a set finish line.

As much a part of Americana as apple pie and baseball, Camaros have featured in several Hollywood movies, such as Runaway Bride (1999), a Walk to Remember (2003), and, of course, Transformers (2007, 2009, 2011), in which the Chevrolet Camaro sports car had a starring role as Bumblebee.

Read More

Wednesday, September 4, 2013

Cadillac Elmiraj Concept, 2013

 
 
  •  Cadillac Elmiraj Concept, 2013

Cadillac Elmiraj is powered by a 4.5-liter twin turbocharged V8 delivering an estimated 500 hp. The engine takes the baseline technology from the new Cadillac Twin Turbo V6 featured in the upcoming 420-hp 2014 CTS V sport edition, and expands it to the classic performance format of a V8 engine.

The Cadillac revealed the Elmiraj Concept, a grand coupe expressing the pure enjoyment of driving and exploring new dimensions for Cadillac's ongoing expansion. The Cadillac Elmiraj Concept showcases a new vision for luxury driving and the top of the brand's expanding range.

A modern update to the classic format of a two-door grand coupe, Elmiraj is a pure expression of streamlined design and engaging rear-wheel drive performance.

At 205 inches (5207mm) in overall length, Elmiraj is four-seat coupe with presence and poise. Taking up from where the memorable Ciel Concept left off, Elmiraj is a statement of pure luxury and performance with a purposeful character and proportion.

The concept advances Cadillac's philosophy of dramatic design and performance, and its commitment to lightweight, agile cars. Elmiraj is constructed with chassis and structural elements of an ongoing Cadillac vehicle development project slated for future production. This new vehicle architecture expands the brand's commitment to lightweight RWD performance, exemplified in the ATS sport sedan and the all-new and elevated 2014 CTS launching in the U.S in the Fall of 2013.

Dramatic Exterior Proportion
With a heritage of imaginative designs, Cadillac approaches concept cars as a method for projecting design forward rather than simply exaggerating or "teasing" future production models. Elmiraj was created from this mindset, and therefore suggests new territory for Cadillac Art & Science.

The dramatic proportion communicates power and performance. A long dash-to-axle front profile, a Cadillac signature, gives the coupe a performance-oriented form. The long wheelbase and clean body side characterizes the car's spacious dimensions and elevated status.

The fast cabin sits within a fuselage where taut fender lines spline through the full sectioned body, literally blending art and science. Cadillac's vertical light signature is represented in both the headlamp graphic and tail lamp. A gently applied feature line in the sheet metal extends the full length of the body side, connecting those vertical front and rear elements.

Cadillac Elmiraj contains design elements emphasizing Cadillac's capabilities for engaging driving performance in its production portfolio. Two vents in the car's long hood are functional, acting as hot air outlets for the twin turbo engine. Elmiraj has 22-x-9-in. aluminum wheels are backed by large ceramic brakes with Cadillac monoblock calipers. The car's rich blue exterior finish wears the brand's Vsport designation, Cadillac's new level slotting directly under the high-performance V-Series.

The face of Cadillac Elmiraj experiments with new visual elements, yet is unmistakably Cadillac. The grille emphasizes the car's substantial road presence. The Cadillac Crest appears in a conceptual form, streamlined and tailored to the car's overall design. This design idea for a revised crest reflects the fact that Cadillac's unmistakable symbol has evolved dozens of times through history to mark new eras or design achievements.

Exquisitely Crafted Interior
The interior of Elmiraj blends elegantly crafted luxury and generous space with driver-focused performance elements. The upper section of the instrument panel is a single piece extending across the full width of the car, while the lower forms a cockpit space tailored for performance.

Backlit titanium trim curves from the cowl to the doors, dividing the rich upper camel leather from the wood trim. Cadillac Studio craftsmen handpicked fallen Brazilian Rosewood, a wood veneer prized for its use for hundreds of years in home furnishings and musical instruments. The wood is hand-cut into three dimensional sections for perfect control of the grain flow.

The car's instrumentation features an analog tachometer and speedometer that are transparent. Directly behind the analog gauges sits a wide screen, high resolution display which projects driver information and the output of a front-mounted camera. A 10-inch touchscreen for navigation and connectivity can be concealed inside the instrument panel when not in use.

The 2+2 layout features high-performance seats, designed to support spirited driving while also delivering luxury accommodation. Elmiraj passengers might actually lobby to sit in the back. The rear bucket seats each contain a valet feature to ease entry and exit. The front bucket seat slides 10 inches forward while the rear bucket seat slides 4 inches forward to meet the passenger, then slides him or her back into position once seated. The rear bucket seats recline for additional comfort.

Many of the most celebrated automotive designs through history have been luxury coupes

Designers at General Motors' advanced design studio in North Hollywood, Calif., under the direction of Frank Saucedo, led the development of the car's interior and exterior. Elmiraj was hand-built by in-house craftsmen in Michigan.

Specifications
    Body Style: 4-passenger, 2-door grand coupe
    Dimensions
        Height: 55 in / 1397 mm
        Width: 76 in / 1930 mm
        Length: 205 in / 5207 mm
        Curb Weight: Approx. 4000 lb / 1814 kg
    Powertrain
        Engine: 4.5-liter Twin Turbo V8
        Power: 500 hp / 373 kW
        Torque: 500 lb-ft / 678 Nm
Read More

Tuesday, September 3, 2013

Buick Riviera Concept, 2013

 
 
 
 
 
  •  Buick Riviera Concept, 2013
The Elegant Design Inspired by the Dynamic Nature of Water
The new Buick Riviera concept vehicle made its global debut at the 2013 Auto Shanghai.
The coupe combines avant-garde aesthetics and advanced technology, including plug-in hybrid electric vehicle propulsion, in a single package. It is the fourth global concept vehicle jointly developed by GM's Shanghai GM and Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC) joint ventures in Shanghai.

The concept's silhouette with Buick's recognizable "sweep spear" has a three-dimensional effect that resembles waves in the ocean coming to a standstill for a split second. Buick's unique gull-wing doors exude a dynamic yet elegant ambience. The new Riviera has an ice celadon finish inspired by jade.

Up front, the concept vehicle's updated waterfall grille and wing-shaped daytime running lights will both become key elements of Buick's future design DNA.

The new Riviera has a low drag coefficient and a harmonious balance between style and performance thanks to its raked windshield, 14-degree fastback design and metallic fiber spoiler, which are complemented by active grille shutters and diffusers, and active pneumatic wheels.

The interior carries on Buick's signature 360-degree integrated design with high levels of elegance and refinement. The eaglewood tone interior features the abundant use of refined materials such as sand-blasted aluminum alloy, lava suede and ebony used in a bold style reminiscent of traditional Chinese jade-inlaid wood. This creates a striking visual effect as well as a subdued sense of luxury.

The new Riviera's compact yet well-structured center console, front floating seats and adaptive seating system, as well as its noise-absorbing head restraint system, represent the best combination of interior design and elegance.

Innovative Propulsion, Infotainment and Safety Technology
The new Riviera has adopted BIP (Buick Intelligent Performance) technology. It is equipped with GM's all-new, dual-mode W-PHEV (wireless plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) propulsion system. The user can drive the car on green power in electric mode and enjoy the exhilarating handling and performance of a sports car while driving "green" in hybrid mode. In addition, the vehicle can be charged with a traditional cable or wirelessly via a sensory recharge panel on the car's chassis. The charging port is integrated into Buick's iconic porthole design.

The new Riviera is also equipped with intelligent four-wheel steering, an electromagnetic-controlled suspension and an air spring package for sure handling and comfort in extreme conditions.

The innovative mobile Internet system adopted in the new Riviera supports high-speed 4G LTE network use. The concept vehicle offers real-time traffic information, weather updates, and news and entertainment while communicating with other vehicles. The vehicle's voice commands and controls along with touch and gesture recognition activate a range of vehicle systems and enable seamless interaction between driver and vehicle.

The new Riviera employs a forward-looking active safety system that collects traffic information through 10 high-resolution cameras (for image monitoring) and 18 micro high-precision sensors (for distance monitoring). The information is integrated and presented in a holographic image onto the windshield.

The intelligent driver assist system provides occupants a high level of active safety and security. The system incorporates a variety of driver assist functions, including: an eagle view record system, night view assist, side blind-zone alert system, lane departure warning system, full-speed range-adaptive cruise control system, lane change assist system, parking assist system, rear cross-traffic alert system, autopilot system and "transparent" A pillars.
Read More

Monday, September 2, 2013

Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse WRC, 2013

 
 
 
 
  •  Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse WRC, 2013

At the 2013 Shanghai Motor Show, Bugatti is presenting the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse fresh from its record-breaking 408.84 km/h drive. Its appearance at China's biggest motor show will be the first time that enthusiasts from all over the world get the chance to see the world record holder for the fastest production roadster. China is one of the most important markets in the French luxury marque's future strategy. The new world record has inspired Bugatti to design a World Record Car (WRC) edition, the production of which will be limited to just eight vehicles.

The time has come to unveil the fastest production roadster the world has ever seen: just a few days after setting a world speed record, the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse is celebrating its world debut at China's biggest automotive show, Auto Shanghai 2013. After reaching a top speed of 408.84 km/h, which was gauged and confirmed by the renowned independent German organisation for Technical Inspection and Certification TÃœV, the car has officially been crowned the world's fastest open-top production sports car. The 1,200 PS Vitesse was unveiled in Shanghai by the President of Bugatti, Dr Wolfgang Schreiber, and Chinese entrepreneur and world record setting driver, Anthony Liu.

The Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse has been on the market since spring 2012. None of the technology in the vehicle was modified for its record-breaking trip. Its power comes from an 8-litre W16 engine, which hits the streets with 1,200 PS and a torque of 1,500 Mm at 3,000 to 5,000 rpm. Its high performance handling can be attributed to a racing chassis which, together with extremely fast-acting shock absorbers and reinforced anti-roll bars, guarantees exact control of both the four-wheel-drive system and the entire vehicle. Other factors that help to push the car to the upper limits of performance include a standard carbon monocoque with high torsional rigidity and an outer shell made entirely of carbon fibre.

Keeping wind noise and air turbulence to a minimum in the vehicle's interior is a particular concern with open-top vehicles. The Vitesse is equipped with a specially developed roof spoiler along with an intricately designed windbreak to guarantee calm open-top driving. These features were key in helping the car reach the record-breaking speed of 408.84 km/h.

World record-breaking Vitesse with dynamic styling
For its record-breaking drive, the Vitesse has been made over with a powerful dual-colour scheme in black and a bright Arancia orange, perfectly blending its inner qualities into its exterior appearance.

The entire vehicle exterior, including its air ducts and the fuel and oil cap, are made out of black visible carbon. The Arancia orange paintwork, which glides from the bumper, across the wing to the behind the door, ensures that the car turns heads wherever it goes. Fine details, such as the Arancia paintwork on the bottom of the rear wing and the inside of the striking double diffuser, accentuate the car's eye-catching design. The strong colour scheme is also mirrored in the orange EB logo on the fuel and oil cap and the Vitesse lettering on the engine cover, while the classic Bugatti horseshoe radiator grill is framed in Arancia for this special edition design. The car's distinctive look is rounded off by striking wheel rims also in eye-catching orange, a feature that is only available in the Vitesse World Record edition. A black version of the famous Bugatti emblem, known in French as the Macaron, on the front of the car and a stylish black carbon EB logo framed in aluminium add another touch of elegance to the design.

Interior
The black and orange motif continues into the vehicle's interior where the black inner parts of the leather seats are highlighted with orange leather on their sides. An orange quilting stitch on the black areas of the seats and orange seatbelts add another splash of colour. The colour scheme continues in the contrast and quilting stitch on the centre tunnel, on the selector lever, and in the trim of the door pockets and door handle recesses. The striking Arancia orange also highlights the Vitesse lettering on the headrests and knee bolsters.

An orange stitching trim adds a dash of detail to the black leather steering wheel, which features a ring of visible carbon at the 12 o'clock position. The concept of bringing the vehicle's carbon exterior into its interior design is also visible in the door inserts, the extension of the centre console, the edging of the iPad console and the belt outlet trims on the seats. The EB logo in the leather back panel is also made of visible carbon.

Production of the World Record Car (WRC) Edition of the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse is limited to just eight vehicles. The price per vehicle is €1.99 million (plus tax).
Read More

Sunday, September 1, 2013

Brabus 800 Roadster, 2013

 
 
 
  •  Brabus 800 Roadster, 2013

Based on the Mercedes SL65 AMG - Brabus builds the world's most powerful roadster. The two-seater is powered by a 12-cylinder Biturbo engine uprated by Brabus T65 RS tuning. It produces 588 kW / 800 hp (788 bhp) of power and a peak torque of 1,420 Nm. A sprint time of 3.7 seconds from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) and of 9.8 seconds to 200 km/h (124 mph) are impressive testaments to the car's special status that is further bolstered by an electronically limited top speed of 350 km/h (217 mph). The exclusive equipment features also include Brabus carbon-fiber bodywork components designed for maximum aerodynamic efficiency, custom-tailored Brabus wheels with diameters up to 20 inches and exclusive options for the cockpit.

Brabus T65 RS tuning unleashes the latent power reserves of the six-liter V12 engine. To this end, the Brabus engine professionals have developed a Brabus high-tech Biturbo system with custom high-performance manifolds that feature integrated turbine housings and high-performance turbochargers. The tuning also includes four water-to-air intercoolers, housed in space provided by the Brabus carbon-fiber hood scoop. Another custom development for the SL65 power upgrade is the special Brabus stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system. It features free-flow metal catalysts and ceramic-coated tailpipes with distinctive Brabus design. An integrated butterfly valve in the exhaust provides an active sound management on the steering wheel: at the push of a button the driver can chose between a discrete "coming home" and a markedly sporty exhaust note.

The newly calibrated engine electronics complete with high-performance mapping for injection and ignition coordinate the perfect interaction of the high-end components while also ensuring compliance with Euro V emission standards. The high-tech lubricants for the entire powertrain are supplied by technology partner Motul.

The Brabus T65 RS engine produces 588 kW / 800 hp (788 bhp) of power at 5,500 rpm and an even more impressive peak torque of 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft), available from a low 2,100 rpm. In the car, peak torque is limited electronically to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft).

In conjunction with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission, whose gears can be shifted automatically or manually with the Brabus aluminum shift paddles on the steering wheel, the Brabus 800 Roadster rises to the become the most powerful of its kind. From rest the sports car weighing in at about two metric tons (2.2 tons) sprints to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.7 seconds. The two-door car reaches a speed of 200 km/h (124 mph) after just 9.8 seconds. Top speed is limited electronically to 350 km/h (217 mph).

To master these enormous speeds at all times, a Brabus aerodynamic-enhancement kit for the SL 65 was developed in the wind tunnel. All components are manufactured from carbon fibers and are available either with a matt or high-gloss surface finish. It goes without saying; they can also be painted in the car's exterior color.

The Brabus front spoiler attaches to the lower section of the bumper. It lends the roadster a more sporty appearance and reduces lift on the front axle. Brabus covers for the side air vents round out the striking front for the SL65 AMG.

The sides are refined with custom-tailored attachments for the air vents integrated into the front fenders and with rocker panels.

To achieve an optimal aerodynamic balance, the rear section is upgraded with a diffuser insert for the fascia.

As an alternative to the 19-inch stock tires of the SL 65, the Brabus suspension engineers have developed an exclusive 20-inch high-tech variant. The new Brabus Monoblock R "Platinum Edition" forged wheel offers the perfect symbiosis of lightweight construction and maximum strength thanks to state-of-the-art manufacturing technology. In addition to the innovative construction, this wheel design also offers unique looks with ten double spokes arranged in two matt titanium and fully polished planes. The front axle is fitted with wheels in size 9Jx20 shod with size 255/30 ZR 20 tires. In the rear, tires in size 305/25 ZR 20 mounted on size 10.5Jx20 wheels transfer the Brabus 800 Roadster's power of 800 horses to the asphalt. Brabus recommends high-performance tires from Continental, Pirelli and YOKOHAMA.

To give the two-seater even more agile handling, Brabus developed a special control module for the ABC suspension of the SL65 AMG. It lowers the ride height by about 25 millimeters (1.0 inches).

The Brabus limited-slip rear differential with a locking rate of 40 percent can enhance handling performance further still.

Brabus adds even more luxury and custom features to the two-seat interior upon request as well. The product portfolio ranges from scuff plates with backlit Brabus logo and a speedometer with 360-km/h dial (220 mph) to carbon-fiber and wood trim sets in any color imaginable and with a variety of surface finishes.

The company upholstery shop crafts exquisite Brabus interiors from especially soft yet durable Brabus Mastik leather and Alcantara. A prime example for the precision craftsmanship is the leather-clad trunk of the show car at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show that features meticulous and precise honeycomb stitching throughout.
Read More