Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse, 2012

The Dynamics in figures
The new Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse boasts a remarkable maximum torque of 1,500 Nm (at 3,000-5,000 rpm) from the 7.9-litre capacity of its W16 engine. The maximum output (1.200 hp) is reached at 6.400 rpm. These figures allow the car to reach 100 km/h (62 mph) from standing in unbelievable 2.6 seconds. The top speed of 410 km/h (255 mph) makes the four-wheel drive (like all Veyrons) Grand Sport Vitesse the fastest production roadster ever. The maximum speed is reached on closed tracks with special safety precautions. In "normal" handling mode, the Grand Sport Vitesse is electronically limited to 375 km/h (233 mph).

The Optimized drive system
The 199 hp increase over the Grand Sport has been mainly achieved by using four larger turbochargers with new intercoolers. Furthermore, Bugatti has extensively reinforced all drivetrain components in order to safely transfer the immense forces at all times. The gearing of the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) in particular has been adapted to the new requirements. In this context, as on the Super Sport, Bugatti has also modified the air ducting in the area of the drivetrain. As a consequence of the larger turbochargers and the overall reduced back pressure, it was even possible to reduce the fuel consumption slightly despite the increased output. The fuel system, with a four-pump tank, has been taken from the Super Sport.

The Chassis
 Optimised wheel-load fluctuations have further reduced understeer and allow a maximum level of active safety. In addition to the incomparable lateral acceleration of up to 1.4 g, the precise interaction of the tires (on all-new, lighter 20-inch "Vitesse"-type alloy wheels), together with the intelligent all-wheeldrive system, ensures extremely good handling. The chassis, all-wheel-drive system and the revised ESP form a dynamic alliance: since the reconfigured ESP kicks in slightly later, for example when you accelerate out of corners, the Grand Sport Vitesse also provides a more dynamic performance in these situations. It goes without saying that Bugatti has adapted the brake-cooling system to account for the even higher engine output. The brakes, which are unparalleled in terms of stability and performance, now have additional and larger air intakes.

In general, it can be said that the Grand Sport Vitesse is even sportier than the 1,001 hp Grand Sport, but at the same time it has not been turned into a full-blown racing car. It therefore remains easy to master for the driver. In this context, it is simply astounding that Bugatti managed to increase comfort in the chassis area by reducing the dynamic natural frequency.

The Body
Bugatti has developed a new roof spoiler for the Grand Sport Vitesse that significantly reduces wind noise and buffeting in the interior. Furthermore, there will be a new windbreak for the roadster that can be stored away compactly in the luggage compartment when not in use. Both details will also be available for the Grand Sport. Together, they allow extremely relaxed, open-top driving even at speeds of around 200 km/h (124 mph).
 

The front end is therefore characterized by larger air intakes; the two central air intakes to the left and right of the Bugatti radiator grille are divided horizontally by a bar. The bottom air vent stretches sideways into the wheel housing and gives this exceptional sports car an extremely masterful appearance. Immediately below this air intake, you will see a new, visually refined front spoiler that has been designed in a similar way to the splitters used in motor racing. The improved xenon headlights from the Super Sport, which are now framed in black, are also new. The rear end, which is also derived from the Super Sport, is characterised by a double diffusor and a centrally positioned twin tailpipe. A new Park Distance Control system (PDC) watches over the front and the rear.

The two air scoops on the left and right of the engine cover (redesigned for the Vitesse) are a characteristic of the Grand Sport and thus also of the Grand Sport Vitesse. These air scoops fulfil two tasks on the roadster. On the one hand, they pull in air for the engine, and on the other, they are an elegantly integrated part of the anti-roll protection system. As on the Super Sport, a full-carbon-fibre monocoque, which allows an extremely high torsional rigidity combined with maximum passive safety, is also used on the Grand Sport Vitesse. The outer skin is also made completely from carbon fibre and, consequently, the new Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse is available in clear-coated visible carbon.

The Interior
Carbon fibre is (along with stainless metals such as Aluminium and Magnesium) also the dominant material in the interior of the Grand Sport Vitesse. Numerous interior parts are now made from carbon fibre in the 1,200 hp roadster. This includes the centre console extension, a cover with EB logo in the rear-bulkhead leather trim (between the seat backrests) and the belt outlet covers on the seats. The décor on the centre console, the door inserts and the adjoining trim on the instrument panel are also made from carbon fibre. The bicolor black trim parts are also new in the Grand Sport version, and so is a special seat design for the Grand Sport Vitesse. The two-tone leather seat covers are enhanced by contrasting stitching between the seat base and the side sections. Contrasting stitching is also featured on the leather armrest between the seats, which comes without the typical quilting. Also new: knee pads in the centre tunnel area, an additional 12 V socket (in the glove compartment), the restraint systems, the illuminated start and parking lock button (same as Super Sport), an instrument cluster with shift-up information and - as a matter of honour - the power gauge that now goes up to 1,200 hp!

Configuration of the show vehicles
There is no end to the individualisation options for the Bugatti. Each one of the 350 Veyrons built is therefore unique. This also applies to the two Grand Sport Vitesse models that Bugatti is exhibiting at the 2012 Geneva International Motor Show. The blue version of the new roadster is finished in visible carbon fibre. The upper area of the body is finished in "Blue Carbon" while the roof area and air scoops are "Lake Blue". The lower body panels (side skirting, front spoiler, radiator grill frame and rear apron with diffusor), the inner surfaces of the wheel rims and the underside of the automatically extending rear spoiler are in "Light Blue Sport", which has a hint of turquoise. The exterior colours are picked up again in the interior. While the large surfaces feature dark blue tones, "New Light Blue" is used for the contrasting stitching and the Vitesse labelling on the seats. This Vitesse version costs 1.91 million euros.

The second Grand Sport Vitesse is painted in dark "Jet Grey". Instead of two colours, this model uses an interaction between shiny areas (lids, roof and air scoop) and matte surfaces and elements (side parts, exterior mirrors and door handles). The radiator grill and wheel rims have been painted black. The orange underside of the rear wing matches the "Tangerine" colouring that Bugatti has used, for example, for the seats, the carpets, the underside of dashboard, the door edging, the contrasting stitching and the Vitesse labelling in the interior. All other surfaces, including the carbon parts, are black. In both cases, the aggressive, dynamic look of the vehicles fits in with the positioning of the new Grand Sport Vitesse. Its price is 1.75 million euros.

The classic Grand Sport, a sports car with an elegant, artistic orientation, will, of course, remain in the range. Following the success of the L'Or Blanc (created in cooperation with Berlin-based porcelain makers Königlichen Porzellan-Manufaktur), Bugatti is currently working on further unusual ways to individualize the Grand Sport. In Geneva, the world's most exclusive car manufacturer is presenting a version of the roadster in visible carbon fibre in a brownish finish for the first time. One challenge for the production is to give the visible carbon a transparent gleam while allowing the colour to radiate vibrantly in a certain light. On the Grand Sport presented in Geneva, the carbon parts made in the new colour "Brown" (lids, rear end, front spoiler and side skirting) shimmer in an almost bronze shade depending on how the light falls. To create a contrast, the side parts on this Grand Sport, right up to the rear air intakes, are made from polished aluminium. The interior of the sports car, with "Gaucho" coloured leather and dark stitching (colour "Coffee"), complements the exterior. It costs 1.79 million euros.

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Maserati Kubang, 2013

 

Maserati Kubang, 2013

The Maserati Kubang - a new Maserati vehicle in the sport luxury SUV segment will represent a natural direction for the company to enlarge its product range and strengthen its presence in the sport luxury market.

For some reason SUVs today never seem to offer the kind of uplifting driving pleasure and luxury atmosphere that are two givens of today's high-end sports and luxury cars. And this is precisely what Maserati set out to do with its new sport luxury SUV concept that is being unveiled at the Frankfurt Auto Show today, the forerunner of the future Maserati range, creating at once discontinuity by entering a new segment, and continuity by maintaining the integrity of Maserati's DNA.

The idea of a sport luxury SUV is naturally not totally new to Maserati. Many will remember the Kubang concept that was unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show in 2003. At a time in which few other brands were going in the direction of a sport luxury SUV, Maserati was already thinking to build one.

The potential synergies with sister brand Jeep - a brand that 70 years ago created a new segment of the market and is today a leader of this very segment - are the important catalyst for Maserati's own interpretation of a sport luxury SUV. And it seems only appropriate to give the model that we are unveiling today the very name of the concept that opened the way: Maserati Kubang.

The essence and all major system components of the Maserati sport luxury SUV will unmistakably be Maserati: style, engine, suspensions, brakes, handling and performance will all be 100% Maserati in picture-perfect continuity with the brand's core values of sportiness, style, elegance, luxury, performance and craftsmanship.

The distinctive Maserati style that makes the Kubang immediately recognisable as a true Maserati has been created by the Maserati Style Center headed by Lorenzo Ramaciotti.

New-generation high-tech Maserati proprietary engines will be designed in Modena by Paolo Martinelli - Head of the Maserati Powertrain Department and for nearly 30 years at Ferrari, where he also served as engine chief of the Formula One racing team - and will be produced in Maranello by Ferrari.

An AT 8 speed automatic transmission and specific performance settings such as suspensions, brakes, steering will be exclusively developed in Modena for the Maserati sport luxury SUV by the Maserati Product Development Department.

Until today Maserati has been producing sedans, coupes and two- or four-seater convertibles. Whether we named them Quattroporte, GranTurismo or GranCabrio - or, before them, Ghibli, Mistral, Bora or Indy - their common denominator rested in two words: sportiness and luxury. Times have changed: sportiness and luxury today don't have just one definition. They can also take the form of a very dynamic looking and high performing sport luxury SUV.

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Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S MC Sport Line, 2011

 

Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S MC Sport Line, 2011

The Maserati has taken the opportunity to show the Quattroporte Sport GT S MC Sport Line at the 2010 Australian International Auto Show, which opened its doors in Sidney on October 15, 2010.

The Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S with the added stylistic elements of the MC Sport Line option package is at the peak of sportiness in the Quattroporte range and perfectly embodies the character of Maserati luxury sport sedan.

The MC Sport Line equipment package is developed from the experience of Maserati Corse - Maserati factory-owned racing department - and Maserati winning motorsport programmes, both with the Maserati MC12 - once again this year leading the FIA GT1 World Championship - and the Gran Turismo MC in its Trofeo and GT4 versions. The MC Sport Line, first launched on the Gran Turismo S with electro-actuated gearbox - across the Gran Turismo and Quattroporte ranges.

The Maserati Quattroporte Sport GTS MC Sport Line replaces all the wood trim in the standard car with carbon fibre, across the dashboard, the front and rear centre consoles, sections of the door panels, the gear knob and around the switchgear. Additionally it is used around the instrument pack and on the gearchange paddles. Each of the door sills is fitted with carbon fibre trim panels embossed with the MC Sport Line

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Peugeot 208 XY Concept, 2012

 

 

 

Peugeot 208 XY Concept, 2012

The Peugeot is revealing not one, but two concept cars at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, which present two expressions of the Marque's upmarket trend in the supermini segment. These concept cars interpret the generation leap already defined by the 208 but in different contexts. The Peugeot 208 XY Concept is intended for city dwellers who love distinction and refinement, whereas the GTi Concept re-generates an iconic legend.

The first thing that attracts you with the 208 and especially with these two concepts is the detailing of the signature LED headlamp design, which is prominently visible both day and night. Using Full-LED technology, the front directional indicators surround the main beam headlamps giving these concept cars the impression of having an iris. The rectangular headlamp units, when used on main beam, appear to have a 'feline pupil' … a technological and precise expression that is fully identifiable with the lion Marque.

The precision continues with the integrated style components adorning the bodywork. Wheel arches have wing extensions, and bodywork with sills enhance the stance.

The Peugeot 208 XY Concept: Urban chic
Powered by a 1.6-litre e-HDi engine, developing 115bhp and equipped with a 6-speed manual gearbox the Peugeot 208 XY Concept transports its occupants in a refined environment, with a Crimson colour treatment applied to exterior bodywork and the decorated interior.

Special 'Pulsion' paintwork means the XY Concept appears to constantly change, depending on the distance and the position from which it is viewed. This ability to transform is the result of an exclusive method, based on the very precise application of sixteen coats of paint and lacquer.

The passenger compartment is trimmed with crimson stitched leather on the dashboard, armrests, steering wheel rings, gear lever gaiter and sides, and with stripes on seat inserts and floor mats, while the panoramic glass roof is edge-trimmed in black leather.

Pearly grey leather pleated seats feature five metal rings, which pinch and tighten the material. This precision in the working of the material continues with an exclusive steering wheel in leather, with crimson micro-stripes with a chrome insert in the lower section. Bathed in the natural light provided by the panoramic glass roof, with white ambiance lighting, the finishing touches to the interior add a 'gunmetal' aesthetic treatment to the door crossbars, steering wheel decorations and vent trims.

The Peugeot 208 XY Concept rides on exclusive dual-effect 18" alloy wheels complementing its 'Pulsion' colour and special detailing with coloured chrome decorating the panoramic glass roof trim. The lower window edge and the quarter panel are finished off with a special grille treatment with three horizontal chrome bars.

Peugeot 208 GTi Concept: The re-generation of a legendary icon
The first sensations are completely visual and evident as soon as the Peugeot 208 GTi Concept is revealed. Instantly characterised by being the performance icon of the 208, it features chequered-flag motifs that embellish the metal mesh of the grille, and the lower bar proudly affirms its origin by displaying the French 'Le Tricolour' flag or the Union Jack when in the UK.

Other distinctive exterior features include: double chromed exhaust tailpipes, aero lower bodywork spoilers and lower sill skirt extensions that all capture the signature badging. Placed within the grille is the brushed aluminium GTi Concept logo that can also be found on the rear quarter panels, as a salute to its illustrious predecessor - the legendary 205 GTi.

On the inside, the passenger compartment is a true GTi environment, with a characteristic sports leather stitched steering wheel, the treatment of which is replicated on the sides of the gear lever, double stitching in the seats and enhanced with LED backlighting to the surrounds of the high-tech instruments. The sports seats are trimmed with Nappa leather on the outer section, and cloth in the centre with an embossed tartan motif, and a leather head restraint.

The red perforated leather steering wheel continues the check motif, and has a pronounced lower flat section, which carries the GTi Concept logo set in an aluminium ring. To complete the sports interior, the fascia capping is dressed in Alcantara with grey stitching, the roof lining is entirely black and the pedals are aluminium. The centre console architecture and ventilation vents all feature a graduated red to black effect, and the chequered-flag theme is also present on the aluminium door crossbars.

The Peugeot 208 GTi Concept takes its propulsion from the powerfully-compact RCZ THP 200 engine. Combined with a 6-speed manual gearbox, the 1.6-litre THP engine puts its driver at the controls of a machine that captivates the potential for a great driving experience. Like all 208s, a small steering wheel greets the driver and with the GTi Concept, this accentuates the dynamic capability of this car with the enhanced power available. With the raised instrument panel in line of sight, the information is clearly visible from the dials that have a brushed aluminium background and very precise graduations.

The GTi Concept also benefits from the improvements that characterise the 208, taking full advantage of its compactness and lightness, delivering road-holding that is both excellent and precise. To enhance the dynamic experience, it has a 36mm wider track, at the front and at the rear, and a rear roof spoiler to generate down force at speed. For optimum braking performance, the GTi Concept is equipped with four discs; 302mm diameter at the front and 249mm at the rear, set off by red-painted brake callipers.

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Peugeot SXC Concept, 2011

 

 

 

 

 Peugeot SXC Concept, 2011

Athletic, powerful, elegant, the SXC Concept Car from the Peugeot Style Studios of the China Tech Center in Shanghai, explores the world of an exclusive and modern Crossover. With the SXC, unveiled at the 2011 Shanghai Motor Show, Peugeot reasserts its international ambitions, refining its ability to adapt to the specific expectations of each market, while expressing in all areas its vision for the future and its skill in combining pursuit of excellence and emotion.

Concept: reinterpretation of the Crossover
In 2010, Peugeot unveiled an evolution in its stylistic codes through various concept cars: the SR1 (grand tourisme roadster), the BB1 (city car, 2.50 m long, for 4 people), the EX1 (two-seater roadster, 100% electric, which beat the homologated acceleration records in France and in China) and the HR1 (exclusive, innovative and hyper-connected city car). At the Shanghai Motor Show, the Marque's stylists express themselves in another category, which is becoming increasingly popular in the Chinese market, that of the Crossover. So, with the Peugeot SXC Concept (which stands for Shanghai Cross Concept), this theme is revisited: this concept car adopts certain characteristics from the world of the SUV (strength, high driving position, protection, etc.), without caricaturing them, inspired by the modern styles, elegant and refined, close to the upmarket world of the saloons. It was Peugeot's international style teams based at the China Tech Center in Shanghai who designed the vehicle. As a result, Peugeot asserts the vision of a style that is strong and recognisable, and that is able to adapt to different body types, as well as to the different expectations of the markets.

A strong Style, both statuesque and refined
The Peugeot SXC Concept is a vehicle with a strong, asserted character, its style expressing strength and power, without ostentation, through lines both simple and refined, elegant and fluid, which subtly emphasise the athletic, even muscular, character of the vehicle. Each detail is precisely sculpted on a body of impressive size (with a length of 4.870 m, a height of 1.610 m and a width of 2.035 m).

At the front, the Peugeot SXC Concept bears the 'stylistic codes' of Peugeot. The theme of the unique "floating" grille, which appears to be independent from the bodywork, fits harmoniously with its stature. The feline headlamps, precisely chiselled, give it a piercing gaze echoing the Marque's emblem, the lion, proudly affixed on the front of the bonnet. This gaze is emphasised by a luminous LED signature, recognisable both by day and night. This visual signature returns with the rear lamps, the boomerang shape of which accompanies the movement of the rear, which has been designed with particular care.

Other "High Tech" details have been studied with great attention, in the same way as the tapered mirrors housing rear view cameras.

The roof bars, of very original design, the border of the side glazed surface,… numerous components are made of brushed aluminium, a light material, dignified and upmarket, which subtly enhances the exclusive nature of the vehicle.
Its wheel rims, of generous dimensions (22"), the design of which suggests refinement and strength, also contribute to the general balance of the vehicle.

The very protective style of the vehicle, its generous volumes, it two-part panoramic roof, its accessibility through reverse-hinged doors, … promise a particularly vast passenger compartment in which each of its 4 passengers will benefit from all the attention they desire.

Driving sensations
One of Peugeot's priorities is to continue its environmental leadership in the years to come. This concept car incorporates the HYbrid4 technology: with an internal combustion engine at the front (which drives the front wheels) and an electric motor at the rear (driving the rear wheels), this technology permits all 4 wheels to be driving wheels when the engine and motor are operating at the same time, benefiting safety and grip in extreme conditions. It also permits driving, at low speeds, in "zero emissions" mode with the electric motor only.

Under the bonnet, the internal combustion engine is a 1.6 l THP delivering 160 kW (218 bhp): continuing its downsizing strategy, the PSA Group uses the most advanced technology to manufacture small capacity engines combining a high level of performance and environmental efficiency.

Coupled with an electric motor of 70 kW (95 bhp), the combined potential is 230 kW (313 bhp) with a combined fuel consumption of only 5.8 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 143 g/km.

The efficiency of this drive train, coupled with the acknowledged expertise of the Marque in terms of road holding, allows the Peugeot SXC Concept to combine the emotion of real driving pleasure with the pursuit of excellence for a high level of environmental efficiency… promising its driver a unique driving experience.

TECHNICAL DATA
    DIMENSIONS

•         Overall length: 4870 mm
•         Overall body width: 2035 mm
•         Overall height - full tanks: 1610 mm
•         Wheelbase: 3000 mm
•         Front / Rear overhang: 955 / 915 mm
•         Front / Rear track: 1780 / 1820 mm

    

TYRES

•         Type: Michelin
•         Dimensions: 255/40 R22

    ENGINES

•         1.6 litre THP (front)
•             Capacity: 1598 cm3
•             Maximum power: 160 kW (218 bhp)
•             Maximum torque: 280 Nm; 300 Nm with overboost

    Electric Motor (rear)

•             Type: Synchronous with permanent magnets
•             Continuous power: 40 kW (54 bhp)
•             Max boost: 70 kW (95 bhp)
•             Continuous torque: 102 Nm
•             Max torque boost: 178 Nm
•         THP + electric motor
•             Maximum power: 230 kW (313 bhp)

    GEARBOX

•         6-speed electronically controlled manual gearbox

    FUEL CONSUMPTION

•         Combined consumption: 5,8 l/100 km
•         CO2: 143 g/km
•         ZEV (zero Emission Vehicle)
•             Fuel consumption: 0 l/100 km
•             CO2: 0 g/km
•             Max range at constant speed: 12.5 km

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GMC Acadia, 2013

 

  

 

GMC Acadia, 2013

The GMC unveiled the new 2013 Acadia and Acadia Denali at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show, highlighting a new exterior and safety features including the industry's first front center air bag.

GMC Acadia, which launched in 2007 as GMC's first crossover and defined a segment that has since surged in popularity, had the best sales in its five-year history in 2011. The Denali model, added in mid-2010, broadened Acadia's appeal to luxury customers with its combination of functionality and style.

GMC Acadia retains the interior functionality popular with families, including the SmartSlide seating system, which allows easy access to the third row for both seven- and eight-passenger seating configurations. Likewise, both the second and third row still fold flat for class-leading maximum cargo space, including the ability to carry 48-inch-wide sheet goods, such as drywall and plywood.

The Confident design
First impressions are everything, and the 2013 Acadia was developed to make a strong one. A chiseled, three-bar grille sits prominently in the new, more upright design.
Diffused LED running lamps lend a premium look to the GMC Acadia and are standard on all models, regardless of whether standard projector beam or optional HID headlamps are selected. New taillamp detailing reflects the advancements up front.
The new GMC Acadia gets other subtle exterior design updates, including wrap-around rear glass and a new rear spoiler. New 18-, 19- and 20-inch wheel patterns complement the vehicle's lines and stance.

The GMC Acadia's refined interior uses upgraded soft-touch materials, with French stitching that adds a tailored look and red ambient light flowing across the dashboard. SLT and Denali models get aluminum accents on the center console, doors and dash.

Industry-exclusive safety
The redesigned Acadia will be the first vehicle on the market with GMC's new front center air bag system, created to protect drivers and front passengers in far-side impact crashes where the affected occupant is on the opposite, non-struck side of the vehicle. It deploys from the inboard side of the driver's seat and positions itself between the driver and front passenger.

Standard on the GMC Acadia Denali and available on other models are Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert systems. These systems use radar to watch spots the driver may not be able to see - and provide visible and audible warnings to help prevent collisions.

Every GMC Acadia model also comes standard with six months of OnStar's Directions and Connections service, which includes automatic crash response, turn-by-turn navigation, roadside assistance, emergency services link and remote door unlocking. OnStar's RemoteLink smartphone app allows for remote vehicle status reports, extended locking and unlocking capability, and remote start functionality to distance limited only by cellular phone service, rather than the few hundred feet of the standard key fob.

The Technology leader
The 2013 Acadia's redesigned infotainment functions feature capacitive touch controls that use electrodes to sense the conductive properties of objects such as the touch of a finger.
GMC's Color Touch Radio - first introduced on the 2012 Terrain - is standard in the GMC Acadia. Available IntelliLink allows customers to seamlessly integrate their smartphones for hands-free calling through the audio system and Bluetooth streaming of popular internet radio favorites Pandora and Stitcher. IntelliLink also allows voice control of USB-connected iPods for easy access to stored music.

Other audio system features include HD radio capability, a photo viewer and a standard rear-vision camera with dynamic guide lines that will display on the high-definition screen.
Mechanically, the 2013 Acadia benefits from a next-generation Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic transmission with better shift response and improved drivability.
GMC Acadia's most-popular options, including rear-seat entertainment, a Dual SkyScape sunroof and a trailering package, continue to be available.

Exclusive Denali returns
GMC Acadia's popular top-of-the-line Denali trim represents 30 percent of sales, so a high priority was placed on adding premium amenities and refining Denali's signature design cues. New or redesigned exterior additions:

•     New, three-dimensional polished grille
•     Redesigned lower front and rear fascias
•     Body-color lower cladding and rocker moldings, rear fascia and fender flares
•     Unique body-side moldings with chrome accents and Denali badges
•     Dual flow-through chrome exhaust outlets integrated into the rear fascia
•     20-inch machined wheels

The Inside, Denali adds standard comfort and safety features:

•     Perforated leather seating and Denali-specific Cocoa Dune upholstery color
•     Leather-wrapped steering wheel with wood inserts and power tilt/telescope
•     Aluminum trim accents
•     Heated and cooled front seats
•     Accent lighting in footwells and lighted sill plates with Denali logo
•     Color Touch navigation
•     Side Blind Zone and Rear Cross Traffic Alert
•     Dual SkyScape sunroof system, with sliding front sunroof and fixed rear section
•     All-wheel drive

The GMC capability
All 2013 GMC Acadia models are powered by a fuel-efficient, 3.6L direct injection V-6 with variable valve timing, producing 288 horsepower (215 kW) and 270 lb-ft (266 Nm) of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, while the added control of all-wheel drive is available. Maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds (2268 kg).

The 2013 GMC Acadia and Acadia Denali will be built at the Lansing Delta Township Assembly Plant in Lansing, Mich. Pricing, availability and more details will be announced closer to the vehicle's on-sale date in late 2012.

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Ford Evos Concept, 2011

 

 

 

 

Ford Evos Concept, 2011

Making its global debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Ford Evos Concept represents the ultimate expression of Ford's new global design language, and explores key future powertrain and vehicle technologies.
Created as a bespoke concept vehicle, the fastback introduces Ford's first truly global design language as the momentum of the company's One Ford product plan continues to build.

The Technology vision for enriched customer experience
Ford Evos Concept is not just a design-led exercise. It also embodies the global Ford product development team's move to design and develop vehicles as more than just an interior and exterior, or a collection of attributes.

Ford's global Research and Innovation team, led by Paul Mascarenas, was tasked with building Ford Evos Concept around a technology experience as visionary as the design. The result signals how Ford intends to build on the momentum of innovations like the SYNC in-car connectivity system.

The concept's technology experience embraces a new generation of driver interaction and awareness currently under development in the Ford Research and Innovation laboratories. Seamless connectivity between the vehicle and the driver's 'personal cloud' of information is at the heart of the vision for its capabilities.
With information from the cloud, the vehicle can provide the same connected lifestyle the driver experiences at home or office. The car knows the driver, and automatically adapts handling, steering and engine controls to deliver an exceptionally dynamic driving experience.

The Ford researchers are focusing their efforts in this area to deliver on four key customer benefits: personalisation, seamless enhancement of the driving experience, looking after the driver's well-being and delivering smart electrified powertrain optimisation.

The personalised, cloud-connected lifestyle
While today's Ford products provide drivers with many personalisation options, cloud connectivity will enable future Ford vehicles to take the experience to the next level.

Drawing from a detailed understanding of the driver's preferences and driving habits, the Ford Evos Concept combines this personal information with additional data from the cloud, such as the driver's work schedule and local traffic or weather conditions. This information provides a personalised and seamless experience as the driver transitions in and out of the car.

It could automatically play the same music or news program that was just streaming at home, or heat or cool the interior to an ideal temperature before the driver gets in without having to be requested by predicting departure time based on his calendar. Wirelessly communicating with devices in the home, it could close the garage door and switch off the lights automatically as it pulls away.

Enhanced driving experience
Ford Evos Concept explores adaptive vehicle technologies to redefine the driving experience.

Current technology requires vehicle chassis settings to be defined based upon the abilities and tastes of a cross-section of drivers and the topography of typical roads. The concept foresees tuning handling and performance to the road ahead and the specific individual behind the wheel.

Learning driver habits and capabilities, the technology can overlay map and weather data sourced from the cloud to adjust powertrain, steering, suspension and braking systems for optimum enjoyment, comfort and safety. Because the vehicle is adaptive and honed to maximum performance based on the situation, it takes driving engagement to a new level.

The Driver wellness
Ford researchers have already developed technologies focused on driver wellness, such as the heart-rate monitoring seat and certified allergy-free interiors. With a seamless connection to the cloud, the Ford Evos Concept monitors the physical state and workload of the driver and adjusts the driving experience accordingly.

The Ford Evos Concept is also equipped with advanced air quality sensors and filtration systems to help allergy sufferers. Location aware, it can access air quality data from the cloud and proactively suggest a healthier route to the destination.
In dynamic driving situations, the vehicle may simplify the appearance of the instrument panel to display only necessary gauge information and switch the driver's connected smartphone to "Do Not Disturb" mode to help keep the focus of attention on the road.

Cloud-optimised hybrid powertrain
Completing the vision for the Ford Evos Concept is a state-of-the-art lithium-ion plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain providing the same next-generation performance and fuel economy as the Ford C-MAX Energi scheduled for introduction in North America in 2012 and Europe in 2013.

Ford 'powersplit' hybrid architecture allows the electric motor and petrol engine to work together or separately to maximise efficiency. The advanced powertrain typically runs in all-electric mode before switching to charge-sustaining hybrid mode for continued optimal fuel efficiency.

Cloud connectivity would provide further opportunities to enhance performance and efficiency by selecting the optimum combination of powertrain modes for any given journey.

The cloud-optimised powertrain would automatically 'know' when to save energy and switch modes, using information about the vehicle's predicted travel route, any emission zone restrictions during the journey and current weather conditions.

In the future, communities may place firm restrictions on the types of vehicles allowed to use certain roads or highway lanes, and some city centres may choose to be open only to full electric vehicles. Helping drivers comply with such regulations could therefore be among the benefits of this technology. For example, the French government is considering creating zones mandating lower emissions, while cities such as London, Berlin, and Stockholm already have them in place.

The capability would further enhance the performance of Ford's advanced PHEV technology, which offers an overall driving range of more than 500 miles (800 kilometres) using the battery and engine - more than any other plug-in or extended-range electric vehicle.

Ford's new design direction
The Ford Evos Concept was specifically developed to introduce the new Ford design direction. Key design elements will be applied to forthcoming Ford vehicles.

The new global design DNA provides the company's worldwide design teams with a common framework to guide the creation of new products, enabling them to shape a coherent family of distinctive vehicles sharing the same fundamental design character.

Dramatic fastback design with unique proportions
To provide a fitting vehicle to introduce the new design language, the Ford Evos Concept was conceived as a dramatic fastback concept, combining a striking new profile with innovative proportions. Attention-grabbing lines conceal a unique new format, with a four-door, four-seat layout which combines dynamic appearance with surprising practicality.

With the length of a typical C-car, but with width of a CD-car, the Ford Evos Concept has a powerful, sporting stance. The forward position of the cowl, the strongly rounded front screen and the A-pillars set further to the rear enabled the designers to create the impression of a classic GT car, but with a very contemporary feel.
The concept's spectacular hinged gullwing-style doors, both front and rear, provide outstanding access to the spacious four-seat cabin.

The concept car measures 4.50m (177in) long, 1.97m (77in) wide and 1.36m (53in) high, with a wheelbase of 2.74m (108in).

Distinctive evolution
Shaped as the ultimate expression of the new design DNA, the Ford Evos Concept highlights key elements of Ford's distinctive new global design language.

From the front, the Ford Evos Concept immediately signals the arrival of something new - a new face for Ford featuring the signature trapezoidal grille mounted higher on the car and creating a confident, more premium look.

Bold, technical shapes, such as the extremely slim 'laser cut' front lamps or the dramatic graphic created by the front and rear screens connected by the thin glazed section of the roof, add a distinctive character to the design. Sculptured flanks highlight attention to detail on the surfacing, which lends a refined quality and a tauter, more muscular character.

The vehicle was sculpted with the same purity of surface sculpture and attention to detail which characterise premium vehicles. Around the world, a new generation of buyers have come to expect premium design in all products, regardless of the purchase price.

Built around the driver
Reflecting the fun-to-drive spirit of its exterior design, the interior of the Ford Evos Concept is built around the driver. A stylish and innovative cockpit promises new levels of driving pleasure and driver interaction.

The interior architecture features clean and simple surfaces, with a muscular, athletic character to the slim upper instrument panel, enhanced by bold trapezoidal cut-outs. Contrasting these muscular forms, curvaceous cockpit display surfaces sweep down either side of the driver, providing secondary information about vehicle and infotainment systems.

The concept features a bold red driver's seat and the vision of unprecedented driver interaction via an advanced driver interface. The two rear seat passengers get an equally special experience, with dedicated touch-screen displays to interact with the vehicle and individually adjustable sports seats.

"Both the exterior and interior of the Ford Evos Concept clearly communicate that this is a driver's car, so that as soon as people see the vehicle, they will immediately want to get in and drive," said executive design director Moray Callum.

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