Venturi America, 2010

 

 

 

 

•  Venturi America, 2010

The Venturi America combines both the values of traditional America and those resulting from new awareness of ecological issues.

The new American dream is embodied by this new model from Venturi : a high-riding electric sports car that one can see oneself driving, one's hair in the wind, through the fantastic scenery offered by this vast continent.

The equipped with the same motor of over 300 hp as the Venturi Fetish, this new-era "buggy" is, in fact, a high-powered lightweight vehicle with a chassis specially designed to suit its particularly high body. The America is nevertheless an acceleration car that symbolizes "cool green attitude" while being a luxury technological product.

In fact, there is nothing today that is anything like this fantastic vehicle, half sports car, half buggy, but it is well worth betting that Venturi has once again come up with a model that will enter the annals of history.

The America also marks a new milestone for Venturi which has just launched Venturi North America in Columbus, Ohio. In parallel to its sites in Monaco and France, this new unit will enable Venturi to pursue its technical and commercial development in the United States.

VM300 : A NEW-GENERATION ELECTRIC MOTOR
The America has borrowed its motor from the new Fetish, the VM300, which, with over 300 hp (+220 kW) and torque of 380 Nm, is the most advanced electric motor ever designed for an automobile.

To get the very best out of such a motor, a new 54 kWh battery pack has been developed (LIV-10 Lithium Ion Polymer batteries) whose electronics (Battery Management System) have been entrusted to Ventec, the leader in the field.

The America offers a real range of up to 300 km. Thanks to its on-board charger, it can recharge using a standard electrical socket or fast charge terminals (see Specs).

A SPECIAL CHASSIS
The first chassis specifically designed to house a large volume of batteries, the carbon monocoque developed by Venturi provides exceptional protection for its occupants : the body is in fact completed by two deformable cells positioned at the front and rear of the vehicle. This concept guarantees the security of the battery pack in the event of an accident and provides a level of safety never before attained in an electric car.

With the same aim, the chassis of the Venturi America has been designed and tested to protect passengers from electromagnetic emissions from the vehicle's batteries.

Derived from that of the new Fetish, the America's chassis has been treated to specific development.

EXTREME VERSATILITY
A real synthesis of two exclusive automobile worlds, the America is both an electric sports car and an all-terrain leisure vehicle. This "mix" approach ensures extreme versatility in use.

Its performance, balance and sports car road-holding, combined with its particularly high body and specific tyre mounting, ensure that it is equally at ease on steep paths as on the highway.

The electric "Buggy" offers the possibility of Venturing off the beaten track while respecting the environment in terms of both noise pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

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Saab 9-3X, 2010

 

 

 

 

•  Saab 9-3X, 2010

The Saab 9-3X is the ideal alternative to large and heavy crossovers or SUVs. With distinctive looks, a versatile Sport Wagon body, higher stance and advanced all-wheel drive technology, the Saab 9-3X also offers excellent fuel efficiency and functional storage .

The Saab 9-3X is available with either Saab's 2.0 litre turbocharged petrol engine (210hp), combined with the technically advanced Cross Wheel Drive system (XWD), or the highly regarded 1.9 TTiD diesel engine (180hp) with front-wheel drive. Overall, the 9-3X embodies Saab's turbocharging philosophy, combining a dynamic driving experience with a fuel efficient powertrain to achieve responsible performance.

Distinctive Appeal
The Saab designers have raised the chassis 35mm higher (20mm higher on the FWD diesel model) than the standard two-wheel drive Saab 9-3 SportCombi. It is specifically designed for those who frequently use gravel or unpaved roads, without compromising the driving experience on tarmac.

The Saab 9-3X is a car in tune with the lifestyle needs of today's customers. "The 9-3X is an efficient all-rounder for anyone who doesn't want or need an SUV- type vehicle," says Simon Padian, Saab Brand Design Chief. "Simply put, we are offering a vehicle that will do what's required in more comfort and style than a heavier SUV."

New front and rear bumpers feature a dark grey, grained finish that is also applied to the side sills and the edges of the wheel arches as a protective covering when the terrain becomes loose or muddy. This treatment is complemented by skid panels with a matt aluminum finish, curving up towards the door opening at the rear and adopting a wing form in the lip of the lower front bumper. These are matched by matt, aluminum-coloured lower door strips and roof rails with the same finish. Visible, twin round exhaust tailpipes are standard for both engine options. Front fog lights ringed with a chrome finish add yet another rugged accent.

With the addition of unique design, 5-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels, the Saab 9-3X's exterior character reflects its ability to handle mixed road conditions, whether rough or smooth, loose or paved.

Inside, the Saab 9-3X interior features a unique trim, adding a dark metallic finish to the door trims, glove box and gearbox surround. The unique sports seating features grey fabric inserts in the black leather upholstery.

Total Traction With Power
At the heart of the 9-3X is Saab's cutting-edge XWD technology. It is an intelligent, active system that continuously distributes engine drive torque between the front and rear axles as required for optimum stability and traction in all conditions. To optimise traction the Saab XWD incorporates an innovative, pre-emptive engagement of the rear wheels. Unlike conventional all-wheel-drive systems, this eliminates the need to detect front wheel slip before rear drive is activated.

The hardware includes an electronically-controlled Torque Transfer Device (TTD), which varies power delivery between the axles. A valve increases or reduces hydraulic pressure on wet clutch plates inside the TTD to progressively engage or disengage the rear axle. The degree of 'slip' dictates how much drive is transmitted to the rear wheels. The standard fit rear limited slip differential (eLSD) operates on the same principle, splitting drive across the axle to whichever wheel has more traction.

The 2.0 Turbo petrol engine, delivers a potent 210hp and thus conforms to Saab's right-sizing principal by producing the power of a larger engine but with the fuel economy and lower emission benefits of a smaller 2.0 litre capacity thanks to a turbo charger. This all-alloy engine also produces 221lb ft of torque (300Nm) between 2,500-4,000rpm and can accelerate the Saab 9-3X from 0 - 60 mph in just 8.2 seconds. Both a six speed manual and automatic transmission are available.

The diesel variant, a 1.9 TTiD twin turbo engine produces an impressive 180hp and a punchy 295 lb ft (400Nm) of torque through the front wheels, but still keeps emissions low with 144 g/km. This engine, too, will be available with manual and automatic transmission.

Form meets function in stowage area
The Saab 9-3X is designed to make loading sports and leisure equipment easy: the rear cargo area with a low floor is surprisingly spacious and well-proportioned, and the compact design of the rear suspension allows a deep box-like space, free from intrusions, offering a useful rear seat up/down volume of 419/1287 litres (VDA).

The 60/40 split seat-back incorporates a ski-hatch and folds down without any need to move the fixed seat cushion. The fully carpeted rear load space is illuminated by two interior lights mounted on the inside of the D-pillars. It is accessed by a lightly-weighted tailgate that opens down to bumper level, its damper rods completely hidden in the roof to allow a clear, uncluttered opening. The flush-fitted, black moulded floor plate helps to protect against marks or scratches on the bumper during heavy use.

The Saab 9-3X's TwinFloor stowage facility also helps keep luggage and equipment safe and tidy. The middle section of the floor hinges upwards transversely when the handle is pulled so that the front edge fits into two retaining slots.

There is also a 12-volt power socket in the main load area (for a hot or cool box) and a separate storage compartment at either side of the floor, one fitted with a moulded holder for large bottles.

Marketing
The long running Saab/Salomon promotional partnership with be used in the UK as the main launch platform for the new Saab 9-3X. The car will be the featured vehicle at the popular Saab/Salomon trail running series where its excellent performance on gravel tracks will be well suited to athletes who want a performance vehicle that can take them all the way to the start of the trail.

The target market for the Saab 9-3X is modern individuals - independent minded people who enjoy life, culture, outdoors, sports & family. These are people with active lifestyles who have demands for versatility.

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Gordon Murray T 25 Concept, 2010

 

 Gordon Murray T 25 Concept, 2010

Specifications:

Lenght : 2.4 m
Width : 1.3 m
Height : 1.6 m
Weight : 575 kg
Tuning Circle : 6 m
Fuel Capacity : 30 litres
Engine : = 3 cylinder-low friction - all aluminium
              = 4 valve variable valve timing - 660 cc capacity

Power : 51 Hp @ 7000 rpm
Torque : 57 Nm @ 4000 rpm
Transmission : Semi-auto sequential 5 speed
Chassis : Tubular steel with cared composite structural floor
Body : Upcycled plastic panels
Active safety : ABS - ESP - Traction Control
Passive safety : Air bag - front  and rear crash zones, accupant safety cell - anti sideintrusian system
Suspension :
          front : Strurt and wishbone and anti-roll bar, Independent
          rear  : Sturt and V Arm-link, Independent
Anti-pitch : Control systems on both axles
Steering : Unassisted rack and pinion
Luggage : 160 litres-720 litres

Performance
Top speed 156 kph - restricted to 145 kph
0-62 mph : 16.2 secs
Economy : 74 mpg combined - 3.83 ltr/100 km
CO2 : 86 gms/km

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Hamann Tycoon Evo M, 2010

 

•  Hamann Tycoon Evo M, 2010

Already the shape of the Hamann Tycoon Evo M with its impressive broad built gives a good hint of what is to be discovered. Mainly responsible for that are the front and the rear wing extensions made of light composite materials. These let the body expand by impressive 60 millimetres. Additionally, the Hamann designers enhanced the sides with the newly designed side skirts. The distinctive hallmark of the front is the apron with the four striking LED daytime running lights. But the body set does not only emphasise the appearance, enlarged air inlets in the front and the carbon bonnet allow an optimised air ventilation of the engine compartment. 

At the BMW X6 M rear, Hamann also replaces the original skirt with an own development. This makes room for the earthy sounding sports exhaust system with the centrally positioned double end pipes. The rear view of the Hamann Tycoon Evo M is perfected with beautifully designed rear- and roof spoilers. All of those components produce a low-swirling airflow over the vehicle silhouette and render additional downthrust.

Rich performance enhancement thanks to optimised exhaust gas flow
In addition to the spectacular shape of the Tycoon Evo M the Hamann engine department added a powerful performance enhancement for the serial engine. The most significant component for the performance enhancement and responsible for the dynamic and earthy sound of the Hamann Tycoon Evo M is the stainless steel high performance exhaust system with metal catalysers. A newly programmed map for the serial motronic completes the upgrade and suspending the speed limit of 250 km/h allows unrestrained driving pleasures.

As a result of the modifications, the X6 M now offers 670 hp / 493 kW at 6,000 r.p.m. and 780 Nm torque at 1,500 - 5,650 r.p.m. This is a surplus of 115 hp and 100 Nm compared to the serial version. Therefore, the all-wheel accelerated from 0 to 100 in only 4,2 seconds and reaches a maximum speed of 300 km/h.

Varying rim designs and sizes
Specially adjusted to the increased requirements of the Hamann Tycoon Evo M, the refining specialist presents varying wheel designs and sizes. A highlight concerning styling and technology is the rim model Unique Forged Anodized produced in most modern forged technology. The dynamic shape of the delicate, anodised cross spokes does not only lead to a dynamic and striking look, but also results in an even weight distribution and therefore guarantees higher bearing loads. Hamann offers the 23-inch wheel in the dimensions 11.0 x 23 at the front- and 12.0 x 23 at the rear axle, combined with wheels measuring 315/25 R 23.

The light alloy wheels are especially emphasised with the Hamann lowering kit. Progressively coiled springs at the front axle and a modification kit for the rear axle thereby lower the centre of gravity of the Sports Utility Vehicle by approx. 40 millimetres.

Most noble interior applications underline the motor sports atmosphere
In addition to the existing factory-provided interior, Hamann offers accessories made of black-anodised aluminium in combination with carbon applications. Pedals and foot rest render motor sports air and perfectly match the 12-part Hamann decoration set made of carbon fibre. An three-spoke sports steering wheel additionally render the Hamann Tycoon Evo M a dynamic overall appearance. For the luggage compartment in the back of the X6 M, Hamann offers an elegant and practical boot mat with diamond-shaped decorations and an embroidered log

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Tesla Roadster Sport, 2010

 

 

 

• Tesla Roadster Sport, 2010

Tesla Motors Inc. began taking orders for the Tesla Roadster Sport, a high-performance sports car based on the world's leading all-electric, zero-emission vehicle.

The Tesla Roadster Sport does 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds, compared with 3.9 seconds for the standard Tesla Roadster. It comes with a hand-wound stator and increased winding density for lower resistance and higher peak torque. In addition to Yokohama's Ultra High Performance tires, the Tesla Roadster Sport has improved suspension with adjustable dampers and anti-roll bars that tuned to the driver's preference.

The Tesla Roadster Sport starts at $128,500 in the United States and €112,000 (excluding VAT) in Europe. Deliverie begin in late June 2009.

The car can beat nearly anything in its price class - yet it is twice as efficient as compact hybrid sedans.

The Tesla Roadster Sport is the first derivative of Tesla's proprietary, patented powertrain. San Carlos, Calif.-based Tesla plans to begin producing the all-electric, zero-emssion Tesla Model S five-passenger sedan in 2011.

Tesla has delivered more than 150 Roadsters to customers, and about 1,100 people are on the waiting list. Customers who haven't taken delivery may upgrade to the Tesla Roadster Sport.

The Tesla Roadster Sport embodies Tesla's spirit of continuous improvement.

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MG TF, 2010

 

 

 

• MG TF, 2010

In the summer of 2009, two new MGs were being launched to join the highly successful MG TF LE500; the affordable MG TF 135 and a unique new MG that is being produced to mark the 85th Anniversary of the brand, the MG TF 85th Anniversary.

The launch of two new cars and our recent scrappage announcement regarding a £2000 reduction on the price of a new MG, 

New Entry Level MG TF 135
The greatly anticipated MG TF 135 launched and is sure to appeal to motorists who want sports car fun at a highly competitive price. Good levels of trim and equipment including a Clarion ICE system, combine with a price tag that  broaden its appeal and bring it within the budget of many more people. The TF 135 hit showrooms shortly, offering all the fun and appeal of a convertible sports car at a highly affordable £13,511 OTR.

Unique Anniversary Car
A unique MG TF is being launched to mark the 85th Anniversary of the MG brand. The MGTF 85th Anniversary will be a great looking car with fantastic handling.

Available in three special colours overlaid with striking graphics and a new design of alloy wheel, from the outside the car looks sensational. The cabin is stunning too as the specialist graphics continue with monogrammed sill finishers and gear knob which complement new stylish Aubergine leather trim and a high quality ICE system.

Apart from the stunning look, the new TF 85th Anniversary model also benefits from a ride and handling package that's tuned to make this car unique to drive. Bilstein suspension, Eibach anti roll system, lower ride height, an all new anti torsion pack and a modified wheel set up on Rimstock 'Twisted Pepper' style wheels give the 85th Anniversary edition a grown up feel and very precise handling at high speeds.


The car  launched at £15,664 on the road which, again, after the Government's scrappage scheme deduction will make the TF 85th a competitive £13,664.

The New MG Family
With the fully loaded and highly specified MG TF LE500, the extremely affordable MG TF 135 and the tightly handling MG 85th Anniversary, MG offers a family of cars that give existing owners looking for something new, as well as prospective customers who just want to enjoy British mid engined, top down sports car driving, some real choices.

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Seat Ibiza Bocanegra, 2010

•  Seat Ibiza Bocanegra, 2010

The new SEAT Ibiza Bocanegra is a unique, exclusive vehicle that features an uncanny exterior design and a personalised interior, which has undergone major modifications compared to the rest of the range models.

The main characteristic feature of the new SEAT Ibiza Bocanegra is found on the front of the car. As its name suggests, the imposing black volume at the front is reminiscent of a mask, which strengthens the stylishness of SEAT's new model.

The top half of the front on the SEAT Ibiza Bocanegra is emphasised by completely black double headlights and the central grille with its honeycomb mesh and black surround, including its innovative air vents at the base. The bumper combines black with the body colour with a broad grille beneath that takes care of cooling the engine.

Other outstanding exterior elements are the door mirrors with their black housing, the sunroof and the attractive 17 inch "Sira" rims and low profile 215/40 R17 tyres. But what really identifies the personality of the Spanish brand's new car is the "Bocanegra" badge centred on the hatch door, a characteristic trait of SEAT's most exclusive versions.

On the inside, the first thing that gets your attention on the SEAT Ibiza Bocanegra are the seats, which are upholstered with specific fabric made up of rhomboids stitched together in red that lend a definitively sporty look. In addition, the upper part of the seats sports the logo that identifies this version - a capital "B" also stitched in red.

The other eye-catching element in the interior is the three-spoke steering wheel, which features a capital "B" for Bocanegra in aluminium in the middle of the vertical spoke, as well as the seven-speed DSG shift paddles. Different shades of black prevail in the interior, especially the Brillante Black and Carbón Black of several trim elements.

The new SEAT Ibiza Bocanegra available in the SEAT Ibiza FR and SEAT Ibiza CUPRA versions equipped with the twin charged 1.4 TSI engine, either with 150 or 180 hp output, featuring a broad equipment line-up including the self-blocking XDS system, which anticipates traction loss to the wheels and limits tractive force to the wheel expected to lose grip, ESP, TCS + EBA, ABS, Hill Hold Assist, low tyre pressure warning, driver and passenger airbag, head-chest airbag, sports suspension and cornering foglights.

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Saab 9-3 ePower Concept, 2010

 

 

• Saab 9-3 ePower Concept, 2010

The Saab Automobile is taking its first step towards developing an all-electric vehicle with the Saab 9-3 ePower. Making its public debut at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, the Saab 9-3 ePower is the prototype for a test fleet of 70 vehicles which will participate in extensive field trials in Sweden in early 2010.

The performance of the cars will be evaluated under a variety of real world driving conditions as part of the development process for a purpose-built, electric Saab vehicle. Targets to be verified include a projected driving range of approximately 200 kilometers through the use of high density energy storage in lithium-ion battery cells.

The Saab ePower is the first electric vehicle from Saab and is a result of a co-operation between Saab Automobile, Boston Power (batteries), Electroengine in Sweden AB (electric power trains), Innovatum (project management) and Power Circle (Sweden's electric power industry trade organization).

Mid-sized sports combi with zero emissions
The Saab 9-3 ePower is the first all-electric car to offer its occupants the comfort and size of a wagon bodystyle. Saab engineers have integrated an electrical architecture within the shape and dimensions of a 'conventional' Saab 9-3 SportCombi.

Under the hood is a 135 kW/184 hp electric motor driving the front wheels through a single-speed transmission. Instant torque enables zero to 100 km/h acceleration is just 8.5 seconds, together with a top speed of 150 km/h.
The compact yet powerful 35.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is accommodated in a modified floor-pan, mainly in space within the car's wheelbase previously occupied by the exhaust system and fuel tank. This enables an optimum weight distribution and excellent driving dynamics similar to those of a standard SportCombi.

Inside the cabin, a conventional, automatic-style gearshift lever provides selection of 'drive', 'neutral', 'park' and 'reverse'. The rev-counter, fuel and turbo boost displays in the main instrument cluster are replaced by read-outs for battery status, power consumption and driving range, all illuminated in green. To optimize space, an electric park brake is fitted.

Electro-hydraulic power steering is used and the cabin is equipped with full air conditioning, via a compressor powered by the battery pack. A separate 12-volt battery, for the lights and cabin ancillaries, is also charged from the battery pack via a current transformer
The operation of the vehicle's powertrain is controlled by a version of Saab's own in-house Trionic 8 engine management system, with new software written for an electric vehicle application.

Long driving range with excellent durability
The Saab 9-3 ePower's projected driving range of approximately 200 kilometers pushes out the boundaries for current EV performance. Key to its long range are battery cells which have an energy storage density substantially greater than the best currently used in EV applications. High energy density also contributes to a lower battery weight.

The battery pack has a capacity of 35.5 kW/h and is designed to operate with full power in ambient temperatures as low as -30ºC, at least 10ºC below the operating level of other battery packs on the market today. Another key benefit is the use of air, instead of liquid, cooling which contributes to lower cost and further weight-saving in the pack's design.

The pack is intended to support re-charge cycles equivalent to about ten years average use. It can be fully recharged from a domestic mains supply in about three to six hours, depending on depletion status. Charging times can be greatly reduced if the voltage of the electrical feed is raised, as there is no limitation on the battery's input capacity.

Test driving experience is expected to validate the performance of this advanced battery pack, which is designed to operate reliably within a full depletion 'buffer' set at only 12 percent of total capacity, a much lower operating margin than used in the management of other packs.
Its lithium-ion battery cells are also the first to receive a Nordic Ecolabel accreditation for their environmental safety and sustainability, which includes manufacturing processes.

The Saab 9-3 ePower meets the high crash worthiness standards that Saab applies to all its vehicles. The car's power pack is located outside the occupant compartment in non-deformable structural zones, well protected and encapsulated. The battery management and monitoring system supports safe performance during normal driving and in crash conditions.

Extensive user trials
Hundreds of drivers and their families be enlisted by Saab and its development partners during a extensive test driving and evaluation program involving a 70-strong fleet of Saab 9-3 ePowers in central, west and eastern Sweden during 2011-12.

The Saab ePower project team in Trollhättan monitor the performance of the cars across a wide variety of usage patterns and driving conditions. To log essential component data, all vehicles will be equipped with aircraft-style, black box recorders.

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